Ron DeSantis managed the transportation of drones, bulletproof vests and helmets for Israel as part of its war against Hamas, the terrorist group that attacked the Jewish State in early October. After the Israeli government acquired the equipment, the governor of Florida helped transport it on two cargo planes that left the Sunshine State on October 17.
As reported by CNN, Israel first acquired the equipment and then asked the state of Florida for help so that it would arrive in perfect condition to Israel. That is precisely where the presidential candidate entered the equation. To avoid any inconvenience, the contents of the cargo had to be disguised.
According to their office, the cargo planes were transporting "medical supplies, clothing items, hygiene products and children's toys," although on Thursday, they confirmed that they also carried drones, bulletproof vests and helmets.
"At the request of the Israeli Consul General in Miami, cargo planes contracted by Florida were used to transport healthcare and hospital supplies, drones, body armor and helmets that first responders can use," spokesman Jeremy Redfern confirmed in a statement from the governor's office.
Since the start of the war on October 7, Florida has assisted in the evacuation of approximately 700 Americans from Israel.
De Santis has reiterated numerous times his support for Israel and its right to defend itself from Hamas attacks. "When there’s no leadership, you have a choice: Are you going to just kind of sit there and complain about it or are you going to step up and are you going to lead? We make things happen particularly at times of crisis," he said earlier in October.
The Florida governor visited Israel last April and met with Netanyahu. While in Congress, he was one of the most ardent supporters of moving the embassy to Jerusalem. "While on a historic trade mission, Governor Ron DeSantis met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Florida continues to maintain a strong relationship with Israel, both economically and culturally," the office reported at the time.
At an event hosted by The Jerusalem Post, DeSantis called for "maintaining a strong relationship between the United States and Israel has been a priority for me during my time in elected office."
