In response to the escalating violence and instability in Haiti, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that any illegal immigrants arriving by boat, including those from Haiti, will face "immediate repatriation." The agency is closely monitoring the situation in Haiti and working in coordination with the State Department and international partners, according to a statement provided to Fox News Digital.

Haiti has been grappling with a surge in violence as gangs have taken control of the capital city, burning police stations and launching attacks on the main airport. Furthermore, these criminal groups have also raided large prisons, leading to the release of thousands of inmates. This rise in violence has raised concerns about a potential wave of migrants seeking safety and stability.

The looming possibility of increased migration flow has prompted Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to take action. Governor DeSantis announced that he will be deploying soldiers, officers, as well as aircraft and boats to protect the state from vessels carrying illegal immigrants. Over 250 additional officers and soldiers, along with a dozen air and seacraft, will be stationed at the southern coast of Florida to ensure the state's security.

DHS, however, emphasized that migration flows through the Caribbean region are currently "low." The spokesperson highlighted the dangers of irregular migration journeys, especially by sea, emphasizing the risks involved and the loss of life that often occurs. Consequently, DHS will continue to enforce U.S. laws and policies to maintain order in the Florida Straits and the Caribbean region.

Those caught at sea without a legitimate claim for asylum or a legal basis to enter the United States will be promptly returned. DHS's longstanding policy and procedures dictate that noncitizens without legitimate grounds for entry will be subject to immediate repatriation. The U.S. returns or repatriates intercepted migrants to The Bahamas, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, or Haiti.

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, 65 migrants were repatriated on Tuesday after their boat was intercepted near the Bahamas. This brings the total number of repatriated migrants to 131 this fiscal year. The Coast Guard plays a crucial role in monitoring and intercepting maritime migration attempts.

While the administration has reiterated its commitment to enforcing consequences for illegal entry, it has also sought to expand lawful migrant pathways. Haitians, along with nationals from Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua, are eligible for a controversial parole program that allows up to 30,000 individuals to fly into the United States each month.

The Pentagon is also closely monitoring the situation and remains "alert" to the possibility of a mass migration event. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense and Hemispheric Affairs, Rebecca Zimmerman, acknowledged that the deteriorating conditions in Haiti could potentially lead to increased migration. Additional assistance has been approved for the Coast Guard to address any potential influx.

As the situation in Haiti continues to unfold, the DHS and other agencies are prepared to enforce U.S. immigration laws and promptly address any influx of migrants. The priority remains the safety and security of both the migrants and the United States.