Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in the wake of a deadly attack on Israel by Iran-backed Hamas terrorists, resulting in the tragic loss of lives and a significant impact on the Florida community, which has a large population with ties to Israel.
The executive order, numbered 23-208, cites the horrifying events that unfolded on October 7, 2023. In the early morning hours of that day, Hamas terrorists, supported by Iran, infiltrated Israel’s borders, engaging in acts of violence such as murder, kidnapping, and rape of innocent civilians. Simultaneously, Hamas militants launched thousands of rockets into Israeli communities, resulting in over 1,200 casualties and the death of at least 27 American nationals, with another 2,900 people injured. This coordinated attack on Israel has been described as the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust.
The Israeli government, exercising its right to self-defense, declared war against Hamas and initiated counterattacks against the terrorist organization. Despite the gravity of the situation, the Biden Administration has been criticized for failing to provide a rescue or evacuation plan for Americans, including Floridians, stranded in the region. This prompted Governor DeSantis to take immediate action to safeguard the well-being of Floridians.
The executive order designates the Director of the Division of Emergency Management as the State Coordinating Officer during this emergency. The Director is tasked with executing the State’s Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan and coordinating logistical, rescue, and evacuation operations. The order also empowers the State Coordinating Officer to invoke the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), seek federal assistance, direct state and local agencies, and suspend statutes or rules as needed to respond effectively to the emergency.
In light of these developments, Governor DeSantis has activated the Florida National Guard and the Florida State Guard to assist in dealing with the crisis. Additionally, he has authorized the suspension of certain statutes, rules, ordinances, and orders affecting budgeting and state agency operations to ensure a swift and coordinated response to the emergency.
This emergency declaration underscores the gravity of the situation and the commitment of the State of Florida to protect the safety, security, and general welfare of its citizens. The state of emergency will remain in effect for 60 days, with the possibility of an extension as deemed necessary.
Read the entire Declaration here.
