Criticism Grows Over Lack of Action for Americans Trapped in Israel

While some state leaders are actively assisting citizens abroad, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has faced mounting accusations of neglect. Families stranded in Israel due to ongoing conflicts have reported that Hochul has been unresponsive despite repeated efforts to solicit help.

One Long Island resident, concerned about a teenage relative studying in Israel, expressed frustration, stating, “Hochul is doing nothing to help her constituents caught in a war zone.” Calls to her office have gone unanswered, leaving families feeling abandoned.

Contrasting Hochul’s apparent inaction, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has collaborated with Grey Bull Rescue to evacuate approximately 1,500 Americans from multiple states. As Israel’s airspace largely remains shut, roughly 5,000 Americans are seeking assistance through land and sea routes, with the number of requests escalating.

DeSantis has organized the transportation of civilians from Israel via ships to Cyprus and land trips to Jordan, followed by flights from Cyprus to the U.S., successfully bringing several groups to safety on chartered planes.

A relative, who requested anonymity to avoid backlash, criticized Hochul, saying, “She should have partnered with private organizations like DeSantis did to evacuate her citizens. There’s no reason to delay, especially in a state with the largest Jewish population.”

One woman, Erika Reichelscheimer, described feeling “completely abandoned” after repeatedly calling Hochul about her elderly parents in Israel. She added, “We can’t even get a call back. Disappointed is an understatement.” Her father is running out of medication, and her brother has already been evacuated thanks to DeSantis’ efforts.

In response, Hochul’s spokesperson emphasized her support for Israel and said efforts are underway to coordinate travel options with other states’ governors. However, critics argue her inaction has left citizens in peril, fueling calls for more decisive leadership in this crisis.