Port-au-Prince, Haiti – Armed individuals launched attacks on two police stations near Haiti’s National Palace on Friday night, escalating the ongoing gang violence in the capital city. The situation remains critical as law enforcement authorities struggle to regain control, amidst a wave of coordinated attacks aimed at overthrowing the government led by Prime Minister Ariel Henry.
The violence has led to the burning of police stations, the release of thousands of inmates from prisons, and chilling warnings of a potential civil war and genocide if political demands are not met. As a result of the heightened gang violence, the US State Department evacuated non-essential personnel from the US embassy overnight, in line with security protocols.
President Joe Biden has endorsed the operation in Haiti, expressing deep concern for the escalating crisis. Furthermore, diplomatic missions from Germany and the European Union have also evacuated their staff from Port-au-Prince. The chaos has prompted mass displacement, with tens of thousands fleeing their homes, exacerbating an already dire situation of over 300,000 displaced individuals due to gang violence.
Amidst the unrest, only one public hospital remains operational in Port-au-Prince’s metropolitan area, emphasizing the challenges faced by the healthcare system. The deteriorating security situation has prompted international organizations like CARICOM to convene meetings to address the crisis in Haiti.
The situation in Haiti continues to be dire, with no immediate resolution in sight. The escalating violence and instability have left the country in a state of emergency, prompting global concern and calls for immediate action to restore peace and order.