Florida's response to the War in Israel

On October 12th, Governor DeSantis issued an executive order entitled Emergency Management – Impacts of War in Israel which will be effective for 60 days unless extended.

This order documented the attack from Hamas terrorists, the death of 1,200 people which included 25 Americans. The order stated 150 hostages were taken by Hamas, several Americans are still missing and some have been identified in the hostage group. An estimated amount of 20,000 Americans, many who are Floridians, are trying to leave the area and are not receiving timely help from the US State Department. Additionally, Hamas leaders are calling for others to join the war against Israel and are calling for protests in the region and around the world.

For these reasons, a state of emergency was declared.

The State of Florida, beginning on October 7th, surged law enforcement resources upon request to protect the Jewish population and other Floridians who may be impacted. The Florida Highway Patrol deployed Quick Reaction Force teams to support local law enforcement agencies where requested at universities, colleges, schools and places of worship. Florida will not tolerate hate or violence towards the Jewish community.

The Florida National Guard and Florida State Guard was activated to support this emergency.

On October 15th, flights from Israel with American evacuees arrived with help from Project Dynamo, a veteran led non-profit search and rescue organization. 270 people arrived in Tampa and 7 landed in Orlando. Flights with medical supplies, hygiene products, clothing and children’s toys left for Israel. This is the beginning of several flights expected over the next week.

“Just a few days ago, I signed an Executive Order to allow Florida to carry out logistical, rescue and evacuation operations to bring Floridians back home and provide important supplies to our valued ally, Israel,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I am proud of how quickly we have been able to activate resources and do what the federal government could not – get Floridians and other Americans back home, reunited with their families, free of charge.”

“Following last week’s unprovoked and heinous attacks by Hamas, Governor Ron DeSantis took immediate action to help Floridians in Israel,” said Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez. “Our administration will continue to work to safely bring Floridians home and support the people of Israel as they fight back to defend themselves.”

“We have a dedicated team of volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure the well-being of Americans caught in crisis situations all over the world,” said Bryan Stern, Project Dynamo CEO and Founder. “It’s truly heart-wrenching to watch the destruction unfolding in Israel. We’re so grateful to Governor DeSantis for partnering with us on this mission, to save every American in need.”

If you or someone you know is a Florida citizen who is unable to leave Israel due to the current situation, visit https://www.floridadisaster.org/ Israel to fill out the form.