In a daring attempt to explore biblical landmarks, a group from Wisconsin found themselves amidst unexpected chaos. Led by Josh Amstutz, the lead pastor of Lakeland Community Church in Lake Geneva, the group embarked on a long-awaited journey to Israel, only to confront the tumultuous backdrop of geopolitical tensions.
The trip, which had faced numerous delays due to ongoing conflicts, finally got the nod of approval, allowing the group to head to Israel in late February. “So we decided, you know what, we’ve just been postponing this for so long, let’s just go for it,” Amstutz remarked, reflecting the group’s eagerness.
On February 24, the group of 30 arrived in Israel for their planned eight-day tour. However, just four days later, the region’s instability was underscored by the United States and Israel’s military actions against Iran, coinciding with the group’s arrival in Jerusalem.
“We just landed going straight into bomb shelters versus touring the following day and seeing all the sites as we intended to see them,” Amstutz explained. As air raid sirens blared and missiles soared overhead, their bus frequently sought refuge under bridges, joining many other vehicles in search of safety.
The escalation saw Iran retaliate with missile and drone strikes targeting Israeli and U.S. bases, amplifying the tension. The group, ranging from teens to septuagenarians, adapted to the rhythm of sheltering in various places from homes to underground bunkers. “We just kind of did as the Israelis did,” Amstutz noted about their survival strategy during airstrikes.
Close calls were part of the harrowing experience, as Amstutz recounted a missile landing less than a mile from their hotel, tragically claiming five lives. “It’s in those moments when these missiles are getting shot down overhead that you could literally feel the explosion,” he added.
Determined to ensure the group’s safety, Amstutz sought assistance from the U.S. Embassy, initially advised to stay put. However, he explored alternatives, leading to a plan for evacuation through Egypt and subsequently Jordan. They managed to secure flights back to the U.S., where the relief was palpable as they took off. “There was clapping, actually, when we took off,” Amstutz recalled.
The group safely reached Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, embarking on a charter bus back to Lake Geneva, greeted by a welcoming crowd at their church. “As we drove into the church parking lot, almost like all the weight of the world just kind of rolled off your shoulders,” Amstutz expressed.
Young Traveler Caught in UAE Amidst Conflict
Meanwhile, Santiago Muirhead, an 18-year-old from Shorewood, found his gap year journey taking an unexpected turn. While in Abu Dhabi to explore New York University’s campus, he encountered the unfolding conflict just days after his arrival.
Scheduled for an interview on February 28, Muirhead’s plans were disrupted as explosions were heard nearby, the UAE’s THAAD defense system intercepting incoming missiles. Seeking shelter in a basement, Muirhead described the surreal experience of having missiles overhead during what was meant to be a routine college visit.
His father, Pablo Muirhead, received reassuring communication from Santiago amidst the chaos. “It was jarring, but he reassured me that he was safe at the time,” Pablo said.
Santiago’s attempts to leave the UAE faced numerous hurdles with canceled and full flights. However, he successfully returned to Paraguay earlier this week, ending a tense episode in his academic journey.
