In a recent House Armed Services Committee hearing on Tuesday, Department of Defense officials affirmed their proactive stance in anticipation of a potential surge in Haitian illegal immigrants seeking refuge in the United States amidst the escalating chaos in the Caribbean nation.
During the hearing, Representative Matt Gaetz pressed officials to detail their preparations, emphasizing the need to prevent a scenario where individuals are paroled into the country, as seen in the Biden’s administration’s approach at the southern border.
Gaetz highlighted the importance of repatriating individuals at the dock in Port-au-Prince.
Rebecca Zimmerman, assistant secretary of defense for homeland defense and hemispheric affairs, responded, stating, “Congressman, we’re doing a number of things to ensure that we’re keeping track of the situation and we’re prepared — at the moment, we have not yet seen large numbers of what we would characterize as maritime mass migration.”
Gaetz interjected to confirm their awareness of the potential situation.
“We are alert to that possibility,” Zimmerman said, acknowledging the possibility. “I think you’re right that the driving conditions in Haiti could very well press more people.”
Zimmerman mentioned the approval of additional assistance for the Coast Guard. Gaetz, in response, stressed the Coast Guard’s need for more naval vessels and Department of Defense support.
Gaetz proposed leveraging legal authorities, specifically referring to Executive Order 13276 signed by George W. Bush. He urged the use of gray hull naval vessels in the straits of Florida to deter migration and intercept individuals before reaching Florida.
WATCH:
In a State Department fact sheet outlining “sweeping new actions to manage regional migration,” Haitian nationals are eligible for a “new family reunification parole process,” allowing entry on a “case-by-case basis.”
The Washington Examiner reports that this is in addition to the planned relocation of 30,000 illegal immigrants from Haiti and other countries. The term “parole” in the U.S. immigration system denotes individuals who have not been formally admitted for immigration purposes.
Haiti has faced a series of crises, culminating in violent gangs seizing control, including 80% of the capital. Prime Minister Ariel Henry announced his resignation from abroad, blocked from re-entering the country. A state of emergency was declared after gangs launched direct attacks on government buildings.
Amidst the worsening situation, the United States evacuated non-essential personnel, engaging in talks to support a multinational peacekeeping force. Secretary of State Antony Blinken allocated $100 million for this purpose on Monday.
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Author: Jordyn M.
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