The U.S. State Department has initiated the evacuation of non-essential personnel from the U.S. Embassy in Haiti due to escalating gang violence in the region. This decision comes amidst a backdrop of heightened security concerns, with reports of gang violence intensifying in Port-au-Prince, Haiti's capital.
Recent incidents of gang violence have led to the closure of the airport in Port-au-Prince for nearly a week, following attacks on aircraft by armed gang members. The deteriorating security situation has prompted the U.S. military to undertake a risky mission to evacuate embassy personnel via helicopter under the cover of darkness.
While the U.S. Embassy remains operational, the evacuation of non-essential personnel underscores the gravity of the security threats facing diplomats in Haiti. The State Department has emphasized that only embassy personnel are being evacuated, with a skeleton staff remaining to ensure the embassy's continued functioning.
The decision to evacuate embassy personnel follows a series of violent incidents in Haiti, including attacks on key government buildings such as the Haitian National Palace and the Canadian Embassy. These events have underscored the growing instability in the region, prompting concerns about the safety of diplomatic staff.
Furthermore, reports indicate that gang leaders in Haiti have issued threats of potential genocide if Prime Minister Ariel Henry does not resign from office. The Prime Minister, currently in Puerto Rico and unable to return to Haiti, faces mounting pressure amid the escalating security crisis.
The evacuation of U.S. Embassy personnel highlights the challenges posed by the worsening security situation in Haiti, with diplomatic efforts continuing amidst ongoing threats of violence and instability.
