Amid growing alarm over Iran’s missile attacks, hundreds of Americans participating in Birthright trips to Israel were evacuated by sea, setting sail on a cruise ship bound for Cyprus.
The Israeli Navy accompanied the vessel, which carried 1,500 passengers, during its 10-hour journey on Tuesday to ensure their safety along the route.
To complete the evacuation effort, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis arranged for four planes to retrieve the travelers in Cyprus and bring them to Tampa, allowing the Americans to continue their journey back to the United States.
According to the nonprofit organization Birthright Israel, there are approximately 2,800 participants currently on trips in Israel—most of whom are young Americans.
One passenger from New York shared that reactions among the group were varied following the Iranian missile launches that prematurely ended their visit.
“Some are like me and calm while others are scared,” Jaxon Zemachson, 20, of Scarsdale, told The Post.
“For me the whole experience has made for a great story to tell my kids. I have honestly been pretty calm about the whole thing, like the Israelis,” he added.
“The first missile attack was a bit scary but from there it was much calmer.”
{Matzav.com}