Florida Coordinates Rescue Flights for Americans Evacuated from Israel
In a coordinated international effort, the State of Florida is arranging charter flights to bring home approximately 1,500 U.S. citizens—many of them Jewish-American residents of Florida—who were evacuated from Israel amid escalating regional tensions.
The evacuees, who were near the end of a 10-day cultural trip with Birthright Israel, were transported by cruise ship under Israeli Navy escort across the Mediterranean Sea to Cyprus. The complex 13-hour operation was described as both emotional and high-pressure, as officials worked swiftly to ensure the safety of the group.
Florida has stepped in to support returning residents by chartering four wide-body airplanes to fly evacuees from Cyprus to Tampa in the coming days. Governor Ron DeSantis’ office has been at the forefront of organizing the rescue, despite the U.S. State Department stating that further evacuations may not be possible at the federal level.
The State Department has issued multiple regional travel advisories, urging U.S. citizens to avoid travel to Israel, Iraq, and Iran due to the ongoing instability. Over 30 security alerts have been released in the past week alone.
Birthright Israel, the educational organization that sponsored the trip, confirmed the safe evacuation of participants and stated that efforts are continuing to assist other Americans still in Israel.
Florida officials are urging any remaining U.S. residents in need of assistance to complete the evacuation assistance form provided through the Grey Bull Rescue initiative. Additional details and support resources can be found at FloridaDisaster.org.