In a significant humanitarian effort, “Operation: Promised Land,” led by Project Dynamo, successfully evacuated 270 American citizens, including 92 children and even two dogs, from Israel amidst the recent violence in the region. A dedicated charity, Project Dynamo, specializes in rescuing civilians from conflict zones, notably after the U.S. Armed Forces’ withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021. Their latest mission “Operation: Promised Land” involved a flight that touched down in Tampa, Florida, marking their 602nd mission to date.
U.S. citizens evacuated from Israel are seen during a stopover in Porto, Portugal, on their way to Tampa, Florida, on October 15, 2023. Their rescue was part of Operation: Promised Land.
Despite the ongoing hostilities in Israel, Project Dynamo’s relentless efforts provided a ray of hope for those stranded. Here’s how they achieved this remarkable feat.
Despite the ongoing violence and chaos in Israel, a heartwarming rescue operation led by Project Dynamo, “Operation: Promised Land,” has successfully returned 270 American citizens to the United States, providing a glimmer of hope amid these trying times. Among these evacuees were 92 children and two loyal canine companions, highlighting the organization’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives.
Project Dynamo, established with the noble mission – “Operation: Promised Land”, rescuing American civilians from conflict zones, initially gained prominence following the U.S. Armed Forces’ withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021. Their latest operation, “Operation: Promised Land,” achieved a significant milestone with a flight safely landing in Tampa, Florida, around 8 p.m. ET. As indicated by flight tracking, the journey began in Tel Aviv at approximately 10:39 a.m. local time on Sunday morning, featuring a stopover in Porto, Portugal, in the early afternoon before making its way to the United States.
What makes this endeavor even more remarkable is the context in which it unfolded. Since the shocking attacks on various parts of Israel by Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorists on October 7, commercial flights to and from the country have been significantly disrupted. These attacks have unleashed a series of air strikes and rocket assaults, creating a perilous environment for Israelis and Palestinians.
Hamas terrorists take control of an Israeli tank after crossing the boundary fence with Israel from Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on 7 October.
The toll of this ongoing conflict has been devastating. As of Monday, more than 4000 lives have been lost, as reported by the Associated Press. The Gaza Health Ministry documented 2670 Palestinian casualties and 9600 injuries, while over 1400 Israelis, including children, have tragically lost their lives, and at least 155 individuals have been held hostage by terrorists in Israel.
Amidst this turmoil, Project Dynamo’s dedication and courage have shone brightly. Bryan Stern, the organization’s founder, and CEO, expressed his enthusiasm while traveling with the evacuees to the flight in Israel on Sunday morning, stating, “We’ve been here for over a week since the day after the big massacre, and we’re excited to get home, we’re excited to get these people out, and we’re excited to pull this operation off.”
Project Dynamo’s actions have not gone unnoticed. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis played a pivotal role in supporting this rescue operation – “Operation: Promised Land”. He issued an executive order to ensure the operation’s success earlier in the week. DeSantis, who is also a Republican presidential candidate, personally welcomed the evacuees as they arrived in the United States. His executive order declared a state of emergency in Florida, acknowledging the state’s significant Jewish population and the threats related to the ongoing conflict.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis will speak at a news conference in Destin. He played a pivotal role in supporting this rescue operation - "Operation: Promised Land".
DeSantis emphasized the need for leadership during these challenging times, stating, “There was a lack of leadership, so we step up and lead.” Notably, DeSantis has been critical of the Biden administration for not launching more extensive rescue operations for American citizens in the region. The U.S. State Department, on the other hand, has emphasized the availability of limited commercial flights and its efforts to facilitate charter flight transportation for U.S. citizens.
President Joe Biden has consistently reiterated his commitment to the safety of American citizens, whether at home or abroad. The Pentagon has taken significant steps by ordering two carrier strike groups into the Eastern Mediterranean, positioning them for potential evacuations. Recent reports indicate that the State Department is actively working to evacuate hundreds of Americans who are currently trapped in Gaza.
While the evacuation of American citizens has been a priority for the Biden administration, there’s a particular focus on those being held hostage in Gaza. Official reports indicate that 20 U.S. citizens are still unaccounted for, though the number of individuals thought to be held captive remains “less than a handful.”
@wfla covered Operation: PROMISED LAND’s arrival to the U.S. and the huge involvement from @govrondesantis to help make it happen. Check it out ➡️ here: https://t.co/Us596FQSSK
— Project Dynamo Official (@Project_Dynamo1) October 16, 2023
Project Dynamo stands out as an organization run by military veterans and first responders, consistently proving their commitment to humanitarian missions. Since 2021, they have successfully evacuated 6075 people from conflict zones and areas affected by natural disasters worldwide, including Ukraine, Haiti, and Sudan.
In times of turmoil, the actions of organizations like Project Dynamo remind us of the enduring human spirit and the capacity for compassion, even in the face of adversity. “Operation: Promised Land” exemplifies the power of collective efforts to save lives and offer hope when needed.
