Mon Nov 25 17:31:53 UTC 2024: ## UN and Embassies Evacuate Haiti Amid Soaring Gang Violence

**Port-au-Prince, Haiti** – A surge in gang violence in Haiti has forced the United Nations and numerous foreign embassies to evacuate staff from the capital, Port-au-Prince. The escalating clashes between armed gangs, police, and civilians have created an untenable security situation.

The UN has initiated an airlift, transporting personnel to the northern city of Cap-Haitien before onward flights out of the country. Foreign embassies, including the US embassy which used a US Air Force C-130 for the evacuation of its diplomats, are operating with severely limited staff. While the UN insists its commitment to the Haitian people remains, the organization is temporarily reducing its presence in the capital, maintaining that critical humanitarian programs will continue.

However, the crisis is impacting aid delivery. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has suspended critical care services in Port-au-Prince due to threats against its staff and patients. Food for the Poor (FFTP) reports significant disruptions to food deliveries because of gang roadblocks and airport closures.

The 430-strong UN-backed Multinational Security Support Mission to Haiti (MSS), primarily composed of Kenyan police, has faced criticism for its handling of the situation. While claiming to conduct major operations against gangs, a recent operation against notorious gang leader Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier appeared to be unsuccessful.

The violence has resulted in a staggering human cost. The UN estimates at least 220 deaths from coordinated gang attacks in mid-November, forcing an estimated 20,000 people to flee their homes in that period alone. Over 4,500 deaths have been reported in Haiti this year, with 700,000 displaced. A concerning 70% increase in child recruitment by gangs was also reported by UNICEF.

The Haitian government, with US and Caribbean support, is urging the UN Security Council to authorize a full-scale peacekeeping operation, citing the inadequacy of the current MSS. However, Russia and China oppose this proposal, advocating for strengthening the Haitian police instead and criticizing a lack of consultation with Haitian civil society. The escalating violence leaves Haiti facing a profound humanitarian and security crisis.

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