DeSantis' Controversial Weapon Shipments to Israel Raise Questions

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis assisted in facilitating the transfer of weapons and ammunition to Israel during the conflict with Hamas, according to Israel's consul general in Miami. The consul general stated that he asked the governor's office for final clearance to send a private shipment of weapons parts, which required bureaucratic approval. DeSantis' office and presidential campaign confirmed his involvement but provided few details. The state of Florida also funded the shipment of medical equipment and protective vests to Israel. The secrecy surrounding the acquisition and shipping of weapons has drawn criticism from Florida Democrats, who argue that it violates federal laws. The cost of the rescue flights for U.S. citizens from Israel is estimated to be around $32 million, with three private vendors and a nonprofit organization involved in the operations. The DeSantis administration has been slow to provide information about the expenditures.