KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) has confirmed that all its personnel deployed in Haiti are safe and in good spirits despite the challenges posed by Tropical Storm Melissa. The storm has unleashed torrential rains over Haiti, triggering devastating floods and landslides that have tragically claimed three lives. Brigadier O’Neil Bogle provided this update during a special press briefing held at the Office of the Prime Minister on Friday, October 24. As Jamaica braces for the storm’s impact, Bogle emphasized that comprehensive measures have been implemented to ensure the safety and security of JDF’s assets. Offshore patrol vessels have been strategically relocated out of the storm’s path, while inland patrol vessels have been secured along the coastlines. Additionally, the JDF has assessed its air assets, with plans to deploy a maritime patrol aircraft overseas and keep the BELL 429 helicopter on standby for post-hurricane operations. Bogle further detailed that all remaining assets have been safely stored in JDF hangars across various bases, and robust plans are in place to protect ground assets across defense estates.
分类： world
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#EyeOnMelissa: Norman Manley International Airport to cease operations at 8:00 this evening – Vaz
The Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) in Kingston, Jamaica, is set to close at 8:00 PM on Saturday or upon the arrival of the last scheduled flight, as the country braces for Tropical Storm Melissa. The storm is advancing toward Jamaica’s southern coast, prompting authorities to take precautionary measures. Transport Minister Daryl Vaz announced the decision during a media briefing at Jamaica House, emphasizing the need to ensure safety while accommodating travelers. Initially, both NMIA and Sangster’s International Airport in Montego Bay were expected to remain operational for scheduled flights. However, the plan was revised following consultations with the Airports Authority of Jamaica. Vaz stated that the closure would occur at 8:00 PM or after the last arriving flight, whichever comes later. Delayed flights will still be accommodated to facilitate travel. Vaz urged travelers to adjust their plans and leave Jamaica today if possible. A meeting is scheduled for 2:00 PM to determine the closure time for Sangster International Airport, with updates to be communicated afterward. The minister highlighted the importance of these measures for both local residents and the tourism industry. Hotels are coordinating with airlines to increase flight capacities and evacuate vacationers before the storm intensifies.
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Belize Out of Danger as TS Melissa Moves North
Tropical Storm Melissa has emerged as a significant threat to several Caribbean nations, with Jamaica and Haiti bearing the brunt of its impact. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued warnings of prolonged severe weather conditions, including damaging winds, torrential rains, and landslides, as the storm moves slowly across the region. Belize, however, remains out of harm’s way as the storm’s trajectory shifts northward. In Jamaica, the storm’s sluggish pace has heightened concerns of extended exposure to hazardous conditions. Residents are advised to complete emergency preparations promptly, as strong winds and heavy rainfall are expected to intensify by late Friday or Saturday. Haiti faces an even graver situation, with the NHC predicting catastrophic flash flooding and landslides in the southwestern regions. The storm’s prolonged presence could lead to extensive infrastructure damage, isolating communities for days. Authorities have described the situation as life-threatening, urging immediate action to safeguard lives and property. Meanwhile, Belize has been spared from Melissa’s path, as forecast models indicate a northward movement, keeping the nation safe for now. The NHC continues to monitor the storm’s progression, emphasizing the need for vigilance in affected areas.
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Another US strike in Caribbean On alleged drug-running boat kills 6
The U.S. military has escalated its campaign against drug trafficking in the Caribbean, conducting its 10th strike on a suspected drug-running vessel, as announced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Friday. The operation, which resulted in six fatalities, has been linked to the Tren de Aragua gang, a criminal organization originating from a Venezuelan prison. The frequency of these strikes has increased significantly, with three carried out this week alone, compared to one every few weeks when they began in September. Notably, two of this week’s strikes occurred in the eastern Pacific Ocean, marking an expansion of the military’s operational zone. Hegseth emphasized that the latest strike took place in international waters and was the first conducted at night, signaling a more aggressive approach. He warned drug traffickers, stating, ‘If you are a narco-terrorist smuggling drugs in our hemisphere, we will treat you like we treat Al-Qaeda.’ The strikes coincide with a substantial U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean and off the coast of Venezuela, including a recent flight of supersonic heavy bombers near Venezuela. This has fueled speculation about potential U.S. intentions to oust Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who faces narcoterrorism charges in the U.S. Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino has dismissed the drug-trafficking allegations as pretextual, accusing the U.S. of seeking regime change. Hegseth’s rhetoric has drawn parallels between the current crackdown on drug traffickers and the U.S. war on terrorism post-9/11. However, President Trump has denied plans to seek a formal declaration of war against cartels, instead vowing to eliminate drug smugglers. The military actions have sparked bipartisan concerns in Congress, with critics arguing they lack proper authorization and violate international law.
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Tropical Storm Melissa to become a major hurricane as it nears Jamaica, Haiti
Tropical Storm Melissa is advancing slowly through the central Caribbean Sea, presenting a grave and potentially devastating risk of flash flooding and landslides to Jamaica and southwestern Haiti. The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) has released its initial assessment, indicating that Melissa is expected to intensify in the coming days, potentially evolving into a hurricane by October 24. Forecasters predict significant strengthening over the weekend, with the storm possibly reaching Category 4 or even Category 5 status by early next week, fueled by unusually warm Caribbean waters. Hurricane conditions are anticipated for Haiti today, while Jamaica may experience tropical storm conditions by late Thursday or early Friday. Both regions are currently under a Hurricane Watch and Tropical Storm Warning. Eastern Jamaica, southern Haiti, and the southern Dominican Republic are projected to receive five to ten inches of rain through Saturday, with some areas potentially seeing up to 14 inches. CDEMA and the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) caution that the prolonged heavy rainfall could trigger severe flash flooding and landslides, particularly in Haiti’s mountainous areas where the soil is already saturated. Tragically, the storm has already claimed at least one life—an elderly man in Haiti. Authorities and CDEMA are urging residents in the affected areas to complete emergency preparations without delay.
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Government of St. Kitts and Nevis Monitoring Tropical Storm Melissa
The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis is on high alert as Tropical Storm Melissa is forecasted to escalate into a major hurricane over the weekend. Authorities are actively coordinating with students in Jamaica, the Embassy in Cuba, and CARICOM partners in Haiti to mitigate the potential impacts of the storm. The government has reassured its citizens abroad that their safety is a paramount concern, with emergency teams prepared to provide assistance as necessary. Students at the University of the West Indies in Jamaica have been informed about designated shelters and are urged to register their details with the St. Kitts-Nevis Student Association for timely updates. Nationals in Cuba can contact the Embassy for consular support. The government is also assessing the status of commercial flights in the region, advising travelers to stay updated with airline advisories. All citizens in affected areas are encouraged to stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel, and maintain communication with official contacts. The government emphasizes its commitment to supporting its citizens during this uncertain time, with teams ready to mobilize assistance as needed.
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Dominican Week in Spain 2025 set for October 27–30
Madrid is set to host the Dominican Week in Spain (SEDE) 2025 from October 27 to 30, an event designed to showcase the Dominican Republic’s burgeoning potential as a regional leader in investment, logistics, and creative industries. The gathering will unite government officials, business leaders, cultural ambassadors, and members of the Dominican diaspora, underscoring the nation’s evolving role as a strategic partner for Spain. The opening ceremony, to be held at the Meliá Fénix Hotel, will feature prominent figures including Ambassador Tony Raful, Minister of Industry and Commerce Víctor “Ito” Bisonó, Minister of Culture Roberto Salcedo, and Santo Domingo Mayor Carolina Mejía. They will honor the founders of SEDE and celebrate the Dominican community’s contributions to strengthening bilateral relations. The event’s agenda includes panel discussions on international markets, banking transparency, advanced manufacturing, and global services, with participation from key institutions such as MAPFRE, the Madrid Chamber of Commerce, VISA Spain, and Banco Popular Dominicano. Cultural enthusiasts can look forward to the presentation of the book *Our First Settlers*, which delves into the Taíno heritage and the foundational elements of Dominican identity.
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Dominican Consulate in Barcelona joins global leaders at World in Progress 2025
Barcelona, Madrid – The Consulate General of the Dominican Republic in Barcelona played a pivotal role at the World in Progress Barcelona (WIP) 2025, an international forum orchestrated by the Prisa Group. This prestigious event convened political, diplomatic, academic, and business luminaries, including Spain’s King Felipe VI, to deliberate on pressing global challenges and sustainable solutions. Now in its second iteration, WIP Barcelona has emerged as a crucial platform for addressing geopolitical, energy, social, and environmental issues that are shaping the future of Europe and Latin America. Antonio Gómez, the Dominican Consul General, underscored the nation’s unwavering commitment to bolstering its diplomatic presence and forging strategic alliances. He highlighted that participation in such forums underscores the Dominican Republic’s steadfast dedication to democracy, cooperation, and sustainable development. The forum featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including European Commission Vice President Teresa Ribera, Josep Borrell, Matteo Renzi, Édouard Philippe, and Juan Manuel Santos, among others. The discussions spanned a wide array of topics, from energy transition and governance to inequality, organized crime, and the formulation of new social contracts. The presence of high-ranking officials from both Europe and the Americas solidified WIP Barcelona’s status as one of the most significant global events fostering cross-regional collaboration and policy dialogue.
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News : Zapping…
Haiti is currently navigating a complex landscape of security challenges and educational opportunities. The Embassy of Haiti in Brazil has announced that the University of Santa Cruz do Sul (UNISC) is offering fully-funded Masters and Doctorate scholarships for international students for the academic year 2026. Applications are open until November 17, 2025, with eligibility requiring a License for Master’s programs and a Master’s degree for Doctorate programs. Interested candidates can apply via the UNISC website.
Meanwhile, Haiti continues to grapple with escalating security issues. Jocelyne Colas, Director of the Episcopal Commission for Justice and Peace, reported a surge in kidnappings, particularly in Delmas and Pétion-ville. In a recent clash in Desarmes, more than a dozen armed bandits were killed by law enforcement and self-defense groups, with no casualties reported among the police or civilians.
In a related development, U.S. Ambassador to Haiti, Henry Wooste, emphasized the challenges in deploying the new Gang Repression Force (FRG). He acknowledged public impatience but highlighted the complexity of assembling a multinational force of over 5,000 personnel.
On the political front, Jacques Desrosiers, President of the Provisional Electoral Council, announced that elections could be held within eight months, contingent on restored security and adequate funding. The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, also presented a comprehensive report on Haiti’s situation to the Security Council, detailing recent developments since June 2025.
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Bij 80 jaar VN: DNA benadrukt noodzaak multilaterale samenwerking
The United Nations (UN) marked its 80th anniversary on Thursday, coinciding with Suriname’s 50th year as a member state. The National Assembly of Suriname held a special session to commemorate these dual milestones, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to dialogue, multilateralism, and international responsibility in a world increasingly marred by conflict. Parliament Speaker Michael Adhin highlighted Suriname’s admission as the 146th UN member on December 4, 1975, and its role in translating UN principles into national legislation. UN Resident Coordinator Joanna Kazana praised Suriname as a ‘small nation with significant moral conviction,’ referencing President Jennifer Simons’ recent UN speech advocating for hope, shared responsibility, and climate justice. Foreign Minister Melvin Bouva underscored the UN’s strategic importance for Suriname’s development, noting efforts toward a potential Security Council candidacy by 2043. Parliamentary factions unanimously stressed the UN’s enduring relevance, with calls for fairness in multilateralism and the preservation of peace, justice, and human dignity. Leaders from various parties echoed the sentiment that Suriname’s diversity exemplifies the UN’s ideals, proving that peace is not just an abstract concept but a lived reality.