The U.S. military has intervened in Haiti amidst escalating gang violence, conducting an operation to evacuate nonessential personnel from the U.S. embassy in Port-au-Prince and reinforce security measures.
According to U.S. Southern Command, the operation was carried out at the request of the State Department, aiming to enhance security at the embassy amid the volatile situation. The evacuation involved airlifting nonessential staff, which includes diplomatic families, though such departures had already been initiated in July due to safety concerns.
In the capital, Port-au-Prince, where the embassy is located, gang control has significantly impacted the surrounding neighborhoods, adding to the challenges faced by both Haitian authorities and international agencies. Despite the ongoing unrest, efforts are underway to support the Haitian people, including strengthening the Haitian National Police and facilitating the deployment of a United Nations-authorized Multinational Security Support mission.
Meanwhile, Haiti's Prime Minister Ariel Henry is facing increasing pressure amidst calls for his resignation or the establishment of a transitional council. His attempts to seek international assistance, such as requesting a police force deployment from Kenya, have faced legal obstacles and diplomatic tensions. Furthermore, Henry's recent travel struggles, including being denied entry to the Dominican Republic, highlight the complexities surrounding his leadership amid the country's turmoil.
The situation on the ground remains precarious, with gang attacks persisting and posing significant challenges to security and stability. Haitian authorities have extended a state of emergency and imposed nightly curfews in response to the escalating violence, as the country grapples with dwindling supplies and mounting unrest.
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