The waging Middle East conflict between Israel and the Hamas militant group has passed 20 days, and several countries, including the United States, continue to offer their support.
One state, in particular, has also helped out with the military effort for Israel.
What Happened: Since the war began, voters have become more supportive of President Joe Biden‘s reaction to the Middle East conflict. Although Biden has gained support for his efforts, a large number of voters still disapprove of his handling.
While Biden has asked Congress for billions of dollars to help Israel in its efforts, the state of Florida took matters into its own hands.
On Thursday, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced he would be sending drones, weapons and ammunition to Israel, according to a report from the Associated Press.
Florida sent drones, body armor, helmets and healthcare supplies, according to a report from DeSantis spokesperson Jeremy Redfern.
Weapons and ammunition that were privately funded are also being supplied to Israel, according to Redfern.
A report said that the Israeli government had communicated directly with DeSantis’ office to determine what was needed.
DeSantis has voiced his support for Israel and recently ordered state universities to disband pro-Palestinian student group chapters. Florida has also provided charter flights for Americans seeking to evacuate Israel during the time of war.
Why It's Important: DeSantis is providing aid to Israel shortly before the governor will attend the Republican Jewish Coalition's annual gathering of donors. That event kicked off Friday in Las Vegas, with DeSantis set to speak Saturday.
The Florida governor has been critical of Biden’s handling of Israel and could be looking to land new donors and support at the gathering.
"It is not illegal for the governor of a state to offer a measure of foreign assistance to another country," National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said, according to the Associated Press. "There are laws and regulations which govern how the export process is handled."
Kirby said it was unclear if the governor followed the rules on the exports.
It could be interesting to see if DeSantis gains in new election polls following his latest moves. In the most recent Morning Consult Republican voter poll, DeSantis was 49 points behind Trump, with the former president having one of his biggest leads since polling began in December 2022.
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