Calls for Airlifts and Evacuations Grow as Americans Remain Stranded in Israel

The U.S. government has not yet attempted to airlift stranded Americans out of Israel, despite the escalating attacks by Hamas. While some Israeli airlines are still operating flights, U.S. carriers have canceled hundreds of flights until the end of the month. Other countries, such as Poland and Spain, have already evacuated some of their citizens, leading some lawmakers to call for the U.S. administration to do the same. The U.S. State Department is in touch with American citizens in Israel and exploring various options to assist those who want to leave, including contract options by air, land, and sea to nearby countries. However, military evacuation options are typically a last resort due to cost considerations.