Israeli Citizens Abroad Rush to Join the Fight in Response to Hamas Attacks

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Israeli Citizens Abroad Rush to Join the Fight in Response to Hamas Attacks

Numerous Israeli citizens living overseas are not fleeing from the war in their country, but rather heading towards it, seeking to serve and assist. From various locations such as Athens to New York, these individuals are urgently making their way to airports and engaging in online chat groups to seek guidance and support in their efforts to return to Israel after the recent attacks by Hamas militants. Despite the escalating death toll of over 1,800 lives, these Israelis abroad are resolute in their desire to contribute, whether by rejoining military reserve units or volunteering to transport essential supplies to those in need. The Israeli military has increased the mobilization of reserve forces to 360,000, as retaliation for the unexpected attacks intensifies. Some like Yaakov Swisa, a 42-year-old father of five in Los Angeles, feel compelled to rejoin their reserve units, regardless of the personal sacrifices it may entail. Others are either awaiting instructions from their commanders or are yet to be called up, but their sense of duty remains firm. Additionally, younger Israelis ineligible for military service and non-Israelis closely connected to the country are also endeavoring to offer assistance, primarily to their affected family members. The overwhelming desire to help is not surprising, according to Eric Fingerhut, former U.S. congressman now leading The Jewish Federations of North America. Travel advisories have been issued for the region by the U.S. State Department, prompting some reservists in the United States to pursue charter flights. In some cases, efforts are being made to arrange private planes to retrieve reservists stranded in South America. Thousands of individuals, cutting short their holidays and work trips, have converged on Athens International Airport, hoping to board emergency flights back to Israel. Volunteers are distributing food and water to those waiting anxiously, while security officers maintain a presence. Nir Ekhouse, a 19-year-old intending to support the military through an organization, and Israel Lawrence, driven by the desire to assist his terrified family members, are among those making desperate journeys to join their fellow soldiers. The gravity of the situation continues to unfold as heightened tensions persist across the region.