DeSantis Orders First Flight from Israel to Florida, Sparks Controversy

The first flight carrying American citizens from Israel arrived in Florida as part of an executive order issued by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to rescue Floridians amid the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Nearly 300 American evacuees who were unable to leave Israel due to flight cancellations arrived in Tampa and Orlando and received support from state agencies. The nonprofit organization Project Dynamo assisted in the rescue efforts. The Florida Division of Emergency Management plans to lead additional flights to bring supplies to Israel and bring Floridians back home. Governor DeSantis condemned Hamas's attacks on Israel and announced the sending of medical supplies and other aid to those affected by the violence. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 1,400 Israelis and at least 2,670 Palestinians, with thousands more injured. Israel's siege and evacuation orders have faced criticism from humanitarian agencies. Governor DeSantis faced backlash for his remarks on Palestinians and the Gaza Strip's education system.