U.S. Rules of Engagement

The U.S. military’s “rules of engagement” for its troops in Haiti, as published in the Haitian Herald, a U.S. military newsletter:

Rules of Engagement:

Nothing in the ROE limits your right to use necessary force to defend yourself, your fellow service members, your unit, other JTF (joint task force) personnel, key facilities and property designated by your commander.

1. Repel hostile acts with necessary force, including deadly force. Use only the amount of force needed to protect lives/property and accomplish the mission. Engage targets with observed, direct, deliberately-aimed fire.

2. Do not hesitate to respond with force against hostile acts and signs of hostile intent.

3. You may use necessary force to stop, disarm, and detain members of the Haitian military, police, other armed persons, or other persons committing hostile acts or showing hostile intent. Stop and detain other persons who interfere with your mission. Evacuate detainees to a designated location for release to proper authorities. Treat all detainees humanely.

4. When a tactical situation permits, you should give a challenge before using deadly force. Challenge by

a. Shouting in English: “U.S. STOP OR I WILL FIRE!”

b. Shouting in Creole: “U.S. KANPE OUBIEN MAP TIRE!” (Phoenetic: “U.S.,kaHnpey oobeeEH(n)mahp tEErey!”)

c. Fire warning shots into the air.

5. Treat all persons with dignity and respect.

6. Do not take private property without your commander’s permission.

7. Remember: No force has been declared hostile, including the Haitian Army and police. Use of deadly force must be based on hostile acts or clear indications of hostile intent.