The United States has evacuated non-essential embassy staff from Haiti due to escalating gang violence in the country. Security measures have been heightened at the US mission in Port-au-Prince following recent attacks by gangs on various targets including the airport, police stations, and prisons. The US government is calling for the removal of Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry.
A state of emergency in Haiti has been extended by a month in response to the increased gang violence near the US embassy compounds and the airport. The embassy announced the departure of additional personnel due to the heightened security concerns in the area.
Reports suggest that the evacuation operation was conducted by helicopter in the early hours of the morning. Germany’s ambassador to Haiti also left the country along with other EU representatives, seeking refuge in the Dominican Republic.
Haiti’s main port announced the suspension of operations due to sabotage and vandalism, further exacerbating the country’s deteriorating situation. Gangs have intensified their attacks in Port-au-Prince, particularly in the absence of Prime Minister Henry, who was unable to return to the capital due to security concerns at the airport.
Prime Minister Henry’s attempt to fly back to Haiti was unsuccessful, as the airport was closed and his plane was turned away by authorities in the Dominican Republic. His absence has allowed gangs to carry out coordinated attacks, including the storming of prisons and the release of thousands of inmates.
The violence in Haiti has led to a humanitarian crisis, with over 362,000 people internally displaced, including many children. Gang leader Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier has threatened civil war and potential genocide if Prime Minister Henry does not step down.
The situation in Haiti has drawn international attention, with the US State Department discussing the crisis with Kenyan President William Ruto to explore a multinational security mission to restore order in the country. The ongoing violence in Haiti has left its population in fear and uncertainty, with armed groups controlling the capital and posing a significant threat to the safety and well-being of the people.
