Governor DeSantis Faces Controversy Over Supplies Sent to Israel
There has been a discrepancy surrounding the recent shipment of guns, ammunition, drones, and supplies that were sent from Governor Ron DeSantis to Israel. The Governor’s Office claimed to have collaborated with the Israeli Consul General’s Office in Miami to obtain clearance for the flights carrying these supplies. However, Reuters reported that the consul general denied any involvement with the governor’s office.
The issue at hand revolves around the classification of the materials being sent. According to Porter Goss, a former CIA Director and U.S. Congressman from Southwest Florida, handling classified or lethal items falls under the jurisdiction of the federal government. He expressed that it becomes complicated for any other entity to engage in such activities.
Interestingly, Governor DeSantis seems to have found a way to profit from these controversial shipments. His campaign, DeSantis for President, is selling t-shirts that read “DeSantis Airlines.” In recent weeks, the governor has made announcements about sending planes to Israel to evacuate Floridians and other Americans. He has also claimed to have arranged the shipment of various supplies, including weapons and ammunition.
DeSantis emphasizes the importance of standing with Israel, both publicly and privately, and supporting their efforts against Hamas. The governor’s office stated that it managed to secure cargo planes through private parties to transport weapons, drones, body armor, and helmets to Israel. However, Reuters reported that the consul general had indicated that the governor’s involvement was limited to paperwork.
Retired congressman Francis Rooney commended DeSantis for his initiative, stating that he is sending the right message. Rooney explained that aggressive action against Hamas is necessary, as they pose a threat to the U.S. and Israel. Goss, who served under President George W. Bush, also believes that the U.S. should extend its assistance to Israel.
However, Goss raised concerns about the source of the weapons, asserting that they should come from the United States rather than Florida. He mentioned that he is unsure if the governor of Florida has the authority to independently send lethal weapons to an allied country, stating that it may require control and accountability through Washington.
The governor’s office clarified that Florida did not send weapons to Israel on its own but rather helped facilitate the transportation of military equipment purchased by private parties. During a speech at the Heritage Foundation, DeSantis placed blame on President Biden for the aggression exhibited by Hamas, Russia, and China. In response, the Democratic National Committee criticized DeSantis, suggesting that his remarks indicate a lack of competence in foreign policy matters.