MIAMI — The Miami Beach City Commission unanimously voted to send aid to Israel as it wages war against Hamas, including a unit of volunteer firefighters and $115,000 for an ambulance.
“This is the least we can do, frankly, given what Israel is facing on its frontlines right now,” Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber said during the Wednesday meeting. “If we can do this…you are going to see other cities do other things.”
Miami Beach Fire Chief Virgil Fernandez took to the podium to ask the commission to assist a few volunteer firefighters who said they want to help and travel to the Middle East.
The unit, which includes firefighters and paramedics, plans to backfill fire stations in Israel or provide support at medical facilities that need it. Miami Herald news partner CBS4 reported that at least 13 firefighters would be sent.
In its unanimous approval, the commission made sure the firefighters will continue receiving the benefits they get at home and their soon-to-be temporarily vacant positions at local fire stations will be filled.
“Thank you to them for their bravery for stepping into war voluntarily,” Commissioner Alex Fernandez said during the meeting.
This idea was a few days in the making, as Commissioner Steven Meiner noted he got a call from Miami Beach Fire leadership about sending volunteers. The request seemed to come from individual firefighters themselves.
“It’s incredible to see the dedication and humanity of our city fire department,” he said. “I was literally in shock, pleasantly.”
In the past, Miami Beach firefighters have also volunteered to go to Haiti as it dealt with major earthquakes. Just two years ago, the Israeli Defense Forces also sent members to Surfside to help recover efforts after the fall of Champlain Towers South.
Along with sending firefighters, the commission approved the doubling of its $10 million investment in Israeli bonds, allowing city employees to give away sick time for relief efforts in addition to donating $115,000 for an ambulance in Israel.
On top of that, Commissioner Kristen Rosen Gonzales said a $10,000 investment also will be allocated to Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Israel, which has sent 500 students to the frontlines to aid with mental health.
“We are expressing our unwavering support and solidarity with the people of Israel during these challenging time,” Fernandez added. “I want our friends in Israel to know that we are with you, that your pain is our pain. You struggle is our struggle. And that your right to live in peace is a cause that unites us all.”
