Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille embarked on a trip to the United Arab Emirates and Kenya on Saturday to seek security assistance in the aftermath of one of deadliest gang attacks in the Caribbean nation in recent years.

Haiti is reeling after members of the Gran Grif gang stormed through the town of Pont-Sonde in the western Artibonite region early on Thursday, killing at least 70 people, including infants, and forcing over 6,000 residents to flee.

The massacre caused widespread shock even in a country that has grown accustomed to outbreaks of violence, and where the national police force is outgunned and understaffed.

"As you can see, we are being attacked on several fronts," Conille said in a press conference before the trip.

Last week, the UN&nbsp;Security Council authorized for another year an international security force that is intended to help local police fight gangs and provide law and order.

So far, the mission has made little progress helping Haiti restore order with only about 400 mostly Kenyan police officers on the ground.

"One of the aims of this trip is to go to Kenya to discuss with President Ruto how we can speed up the deployment of remnants of the Kenyan troops as quickly as possible to continue supporting the national police force," Conille said.

Conille said he would discuss with his counterpart in the United Arab Emirates "how we can find regular flows to help the Haitian national police to combat&nbsp;security."

On Friday, Conille, flanked by heavily armed police, visited patients at a hospital who were being treated for injuries from Thursday's attack. He promised reinforcements were en route from the capital, Port-au-Prince.

A spokesperson for Haiti's national police told Reuters on Friday evening that the director of police in charge of the Artibonite department had been replaced.

Gran Grif is the largest gang in Haiti's Artibonite department, according to security analysts. The region is home to many of Haiti's rice fields.

The gang's leader Luckson Elan said the attack was in retaliation for civilians remaining passive while police and vigilante groups killed his soldiers.

This week's killings were the latest sign of a worsening conflict in Haiti, where armed gangs control most of Port-au-Prince and are expanding to nearby regions, fueling hunger and making hundreds of thousands homeless. Promised international support still lags and nearby nations have deported migrants back to the country.

The number of people internally displaced by the conflict has meanwhile surged past 700,000, nearly doubling in six months.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
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Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille embarked on a trip to the United Arab Emirates and Kenya on Saturday to seek security assistance in the aftermath of one of deadliest gang attacks in the Caribbean nation in recent years.

Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille embarked on a trip to the United Arab Emirates and Kenya on Saturday to seek security assistance in the aftermath of one of deadliest gang attacks in the Caribbean nation in recent years. Haiti is reeling after members of the Gran Grif gang stormed through the town of Pont-Sonde in the western Artibonite region early on Thursday, killing at least 70 people, including infants, and forcing over 6,000 residents to flee. The massacre caused widespread shock even in a country that has grown accustomed to outbreaks of violence, and where the national police force is outgunned and understaffed. "As you can see, we are being attacked on several fronts," Conille said in a press conference before the trip. Last week, the UN Security Council authorized for another year an international security force that is intended to help local police fight gangs and provide law and order. So far, the mission has made little progress helping Haiti restore order with only about 400 mostly Kenyan police officers on the ground. "One of the aims of this trip is to go to Kenya to discuss with President Ruto how we can speed up the deployment of remnants of the Kenyan troops as quickly as possible to continue supporting the national police force," Conille said. Conille said he would discuss with his counterpart in the United Arab Emirates "how we can find regular flows to help the Haitian national police to combat security." On Friday, Conille, flanked by heavily armed police, visited patients at a hospital who were being treated for injuries from Thursday's attack. He promised reinforcements were en route from the capital, Port-au-Prince. A spokesperson for Haiti's national police told Reuters on Friday evening that the director of police in charge of the Artibonite department had been replaced. Gran Grif is the largest gang in Haiti's Artibonite department, according to security analysts. The region is home to many of Haiti's rice fields. The gang's leader Luckson Elan said the attack was in retaliation for civilians remaining passive while police and vigilante groups killed his soldiers. This week's killings were the latest sign of a worsening conflict in Haiti, where armed gangs control most of Port-au-Prince and are expanding to nearby regions, fueling hunger and making hundreds of thousands homeless. Promised international support still lags and nearby nations have deported migrants back to the country. The number of people internally displaced by the conflict has meanwhile surged past 700,000, nearly doubling in six months. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Haiti PM goes abroad to seek security assistance following gang attacks in his nation

Haiti's Prime Minister Garry Conille narrowly escaped harm on Monday (Jul&nbsp;29) when gangs opened fire. The attack took place near a hospital in Port-au-Prince that the PM was visiting.

A government source told news agency AFP that Conille, escorted by Haitian police and members of a UN-backed Kenyan security force, escaped the attack unscathed.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:116,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2016}">What happened?</h2>

As per the report, Conille, who assumed office recently in June, was departing from the hospital in a gang-controlled area of Port-au-Prince when gunmen started shooting automatic weapons.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:210,&quot;w&quot;:520,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2110}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-former-president-jacob-zuma-expelled-from-anc-745281">South Africa's former president Jacob Zuma expelled from his ANC party</a>

The gunfire erupted in the vicinity of the hospital. It is not known yet whether it was potentially an assassination attempt.

He was there to conduct a surprise inspection of the General hospital's operating conditions.&nbsp;

Video of the incident shows police officers being forced to take cover in the hospital's secure areas as gunfire erupts. There have been no reports of injuries so far.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Haiti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Haiti</a>- Shooting at General Hospital: Garry Conille and Kenyan Soldiers Trapped in Place 
 
Port-au-Prince, July 29, 2024 – Prime Minister Garry Conille made a surprise visit to the General Hospital this afternoon, but the event was marred by an unexpected shooting. 
 
According to… <a href="https://t.co/GesvHCRyAY">pic.twitter.com/GesvHCRyAY</a>
— HaitiInfoProj (@HaitiInfoProj) <a href="https://twitter.com/HaitiInfoProj/status/1818035029043462381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The hospital, as per AFP, had been under gang control from the end of February until early July, when a police operation successfully reclaimed the building.

Currently, criminal groups in Haiti control approximately 80 per cent of the capital Port-au-Prince. Due to the gangs, residents of the city are constantly subjected to threats of murder, rape, and kidnapping for ransom.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:518,&quot;w&quot;:555,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2418}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-agrees-to-sit-with-fbi-for-victim-interview-about-assassination-attempt-745348">Trump agrees to sit with FBI for ‘victim interview’ about assassination attempt</a>

To rescue the city from gang violence, hundreds of Kenyan police officers have been deployed in the capital. This has been done as part of an international effort to restore order in Haiti, which is plagued by political, social, and economic turmoil.

Prime Minister Conille has committed to restoring state authority. He took office as part of an interim government formed after the resignation of his unpopular and unelected predecessor, Ariel Henry.

(With inputs from agencies)

Haiti's Prime Minister Garry Conille narrowly escaped harm on Monday (Jul 29) when gangs opened fire. The attack took place near a hospital in Port-au-Prince that the PM was visiting.

Haiti's Prime Minister Garry Conille narrowly escaped harm on Monday (Jul 29) when gangs opened fire. The attack took place near a hospital in Port-au-Prince that the PM was visiting. A government source told news agency AFP that Conille, escorted by Haitian police and members of a UN-backed Kenyan security force, escaped the attack unscathed. What happened? As per the report, Conille, who assumed office recently in June, was departing from the hospital in a gang-controlled area of Port-au-Prince when gunmen started shooting automatic weapons. Also read | South Africa's former president Jacob Zuma expelled from his ANC party The gunfire erupted in the vicinity of the hospital. It is not known yet whether it was potentially an assassination attempt. He was there to conduct a surprise inspection of the General hospital's operating conditions. Video of the incident shows police officers being forced to take cover in the hospital's secure areas as gunfire erupts. There have been no reports of injuries so far. #Haiti- Shooting at General Hospital: Garry Conille and Kenyan Soldiers Trapped in Place Port-au-Prince, July 29, 2024 – Prime Minister Garry Conille made a surprise visit to the General Hospital this afternoon, but the event was marred by an unexpected shooting. According to… pic.twitter.com/GesvHCRyAY — HaitiInfoProj (@HaitiInfoProj) July 29, 2024 × The hospital, as per AFP, had been under gang control from the end of February until early July, when a police operation successfully reclaimed the building. Currently, criminal groups in Haiti control approximately 80 per cent of the capital Port-au-Prince. Due to the gangs, residents of the city are constantly subjected to threats of murder, rape, and kidnapping for ransom. Also read | Trump agrees to sit with FBI for ‘victim interview’ about assassination attempt To rescue the city from gang violence, hundreds of Kenyan police officers have been deployed in the capital. This has been done as part of an international effort to restore order in Haiti, which is plagued by political, social, and economic turmoil. Prime Minister Conille has committed to restoring state authority. He took office as part of an interim government formed after the resignation of his unpopular and unelected predecessor, Ariel Henry. (With inputs from agencies)

Haiti PM Garry Conille narrowly escapes gang attack in capital Port-au-Prince

The United States (US) will give Haiti nearly $110 million in security and police assistance, the news agency Reuters reported early Friday (June 21) citing a State Department official.

The United States (US) will give Haiti nearly $110 million in security and police assistance, the news agency Reuters reported early Friday (June 21) citing a State Department official. The official said that Secretary of State Antony Blinken made the decision following more than 100 briefings to Congress by the State Department and that the Biden administration remained committed to working in "close consultation" with that body. "The security situation in Haiti remains untenable due to violence perpetrated by violent gangs, and the people of Haiti cannot wait," the official said. The funds for Haiti include $95 million for security mission support and $15 million for the Haitian National Police to counter gang violence. Republicans slam Biden administration's decision In a statement, Senator Jim Risch, the top Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said that the Biden administration's "choice to override the hold I had placed on US taxpayer funding for the ill-conceived Haiti MSS (Multinational Security Support Mission) is extremely disappointing." Also read | Haiti: Former PM Garry Conille appointed to lead transitional government Reuters reported that in March, Senator Risch and Representative Michael McCaul (the Republican chairman of the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee) said they had put "holds" on funds to Haiti because they needed "a lot more details" before approving them. The State Department said at the time it was engaging with Congress to get approval for the funds where intensifying gang violence cut off food supplies and forced hundreds of thousands of people from their homes. Leaders of the foreign relations committees have approval power over money, but the administration can override their holds if it decides the situation is extreme enough to warrant going ahead. Gang violence in Haiti surged in late February as former prime minister Ariel Henry left the Caribbean nation to seek to speed up a promised Kenyan-led deployment of security forces to help national police fight gangs. As gangs attacked the national palace and thousands broke from prison, Henry was unable to return and pressured to resign. Three months later, a new government was formed but the Kenyan-led deployment has yet to land. UN warns of impact of gang war displacements On Tuesday, the United Nations (UN) warned of catastrophic humanitarian consequences for the spiralling numbers of Haitians forced to flee their homes due to the gang war. Philippe Branchat, who heads the International Organization for Migration's (IOM) Haiti arm, said, "The figures we see today are a direct consequence of years of spiralling violence, and its catastrophic humanitarian impact." The latest country-wide assessment from the IOM said that almost 580,000 people in Haiti are internally displaced, a 60 per cent increase from 360,000 just three months earlier. (With inputs from agencies)

United States to give Haiti nearly $110 million in security aid, says official

In the months leading up to Kenya's deployment of police officers to Haiti, President William Ruto has consulted political advisers, security officials and foreign leaders about the high-profile anti-gang mission. Watch to know more.

Will the lord save Haiti from gang violence

Haiti&nbsp;government, on Friday (Apr 13) formalised the creation of a nine-member transitional presidential council, which will be tasked with choosing the country’s next prime minister and Cabinet, a long-awaited move amid the ongoing violence in the gang-ravaged Caribbean country.

<h2>Nine-member council established</h2>

The announcement about the formation of the council was in a decree published Friday in a Haitian government gazette.&nbsp;

According to the official state journal, Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who was expected to resign immediately after the council was formed, will remain in power till a new premier is chosen.&nbsp;

A provision in the decree allows the current PM to make the “necessary arrangements” ahead of the new appointments.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-declines-to-dismiss-gun-charges-against-president-joe-bidens-son-hunter-710700">US judge declines to dismiss gun charges against President Joe Biden's son Hunter</a>

Those chosen, according to the official state journal, would then “participate, in agreement with the prime minister, in the formation of an inclusive ministers’ cabinet.”

It will have&nbsp;seven voting members and two non-voting observers which will be tasked with choosing the new PM and an&nbsp;“impartial” electoral council, said the decree.

The&nbsp;council will have&nbsp;members from&nbsp;political parties or social sectors, while two non-voting seats have been reportedly represented by someone from Haiti’s civil society and its religious sector.&nbsp;

However, the decree does not name the council members or mention a timeline for installing the council and replacing the incumbent PM who said he would step down in a month&nbsp;once his successor was in place.

“The establishment of the...politically inclusive council signals the possibility of a new beginning for Haiti,” Caricom, a Caribbean trade bloc, who helped form the council, said in a statement.&nbsp;

It added that the council “will take the troubled country through elections to the restoration of the lapsed state institutions and constitutional government.”&nbsp;

However, the first priority would be to “urgently address” the security situation in Port-au-Prince so that schools and businesses can reopen and people can travel freely and access basic supplies, said&nbsp;Caricom,

It also calls on the council to help speed up the deployment of international troops Henry requested in 2022 to aid police in mitigating the rise of gang violence.&nbsp;

The council, according to the decree, will be headquartered in the National Palace in downtown Port-au-Prince, which as per media reports has repeatedly come under fire in recent weeks.&nbsp;

<h2>Situation in Haiti</h2>

Nearly 95,000 people have fled the metropolitan area of the capital Port-au-Prince in the last month as criminal gangs have cemented their control.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/iran-backed-hezbollah-fires-dozens-of-missiles-towards-northern-israel-710671">Iran-backed Hezbollah fires dozens of missiles towards Northern Israel</a>

Local media reports, after the announcement, reported more gunfire in parts of the capital city.&nbsp;

Pierre Fritz Chenet, a police officer, was fatally shot while visiting relatives on the port side of the city, a police union spokesperson said, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

More than 1,550 people have been killed across Haiti and more than 820 injured between January to March 22, according to the United Nations data.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Haiti government, on Friday (Apr 13) formalised the creation of a nine-member transitional presidential council, which will be tasked with choosing the country’s next prime minister and Cabinet, a long-awaited move amid the ongoing violence in the gang-ravaged Caribbean country.

Haiti government, on Friday (Apr 13) formalised the creation of a nine-member transitional presidential council, which will be tasked with choosing the country’s next prime minister and Cabinet, a long-awaited move amid the ongoing violence in the gang-ravaged Caribbean country. Nine-member council established The announcement about the formation of the council was in a decree published Friday in a Haitian government gazette. According to the official state journal, Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who was expected to resign immediately after the council was formed, will remain in power till a new premier is chosen. A provision in the decree allows the current PM to make the “necessary arrangements” ahead of the new appointments. Also Read | US judge declines to dismiss gun charges against President Joe Biden's son Hunter Those chosen, according to the official state journal, would then “participate, in agreement with the prime minister, in the formation of an inclusive ministers’ cabinet.” It will have seven voting members and two non-voting observers which will be tasked with choosing the new PM and an “impartial” electoral council, said the decree. The council will have members from political parties or social sectors, while two non-voting seats have been reportedly represented by someone from Haiti’s civil society and its religious sector. However, the decree does not name the council members or mention a timeline for installing the council and replacing the incumbent PM who said he would step down in a month once his successor was in place. “The establishment of the...politically inclusive council signals the possibility of a new beginning for Haiti,” Caricom, a Caribbean trade bloc, who helped form the council, said in a statement. It added that the council “will take the troubled country through elections to the restoration of the lapsed state institutions and constitutional government.” However, the first priority would be to “urgently address” the security situation in Port-au-Prince so that schools and businesses can reopen and people can travel freely and access basic supplies, said Caricom, It also calls on the council to help speed up the deployment of international troops Henry requested in 2022 to aid police in mitigating the rise of gang violence. The council, according to the decree, will be headquartered in the National Palace in downtown Port-au-Prince, which as per media reports has repeatedly come under fire in recent weeks. Situation in Haiti Nearly 95,000 people have fled the metropolitan area of the capital Port-au-Prince in the last month as criminal gangs have cemented their control. Also Read | Iran-backed Hezbollah fires dozens of missiles towards Northern Israel Local media reports, after the announcement, reported more gunfire in parts of the capital city. Pierre Fritz Chenet, a police officer, was fatally shot while visiting relatives on the port side of the city, a police union spokesperson said, as per Reuters. More than 1,550 people have been killed across Haiti and more than 820 injured between January to March 22, according to the United Nations data. (With inputs from agencies)

Haiti establishes long-awaited transition council to choose new PM, leaders amid crisis

Haiti has been in a state of crisis for quite a while now. Gang wars have been erupting and killings and kidnappings are frequent in the capital Port-Au-Prince. But what is ironic, is the fact that a country that does not manufacture a single weapon, is flooded with guns! The ease of procuring guns in the US has a large role to play.

Gravitas: Haitian gangs illegally procure weapons from US

The Caribbean nation of Haiti has been held hostage by armed gangs for over three weeks now. Taking advantage of prime minister Ariel Henry's absence late last month, multiple armed groups launched coordinated attacks on key facilities including police stations, police academies & the international airport. Under mounting international pressure and stranded in Puerto Rico, the Prime Minister Ariel Henry pledged to step down once a transition council and an interim prime minister is appointed.

Haitian political future hangs in limbo | World at War

India on Thursday launched 'Operation Indravati' to evacuate its citizens stranded in war-torn Haiti amid the intense fighting between the armed groups and the government, external affairs minister S Jaishankar said.

Haiti gang violence: India starts evacuating citizens from Haiti by launching Operation Indravati

In a rapid escalation of gang violence in Haiti, gunmen launched a brazen assault on two affluent neighbourhoods in the capital of the Caribbean Sea. The attack, which targeted the communities of Laboule and Thomassin before dawn on Monday (March 18), has shattered the relative peace that had prevailed in these areas despite a surge in gang activity across Port-au-Prince.

At least a dozen people reportedly died in this episode of violence in Haiti neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

Residents were forced to flee their homes as assailants ransacked properties. Desperate pleas for help flooded radio stations as terrified civilians sought refuge from the onslaught.

The grim aftermath of the assault was evident in the streets of nearby Pétion-Ville, where the bodies of at least twelve individuals lay strewn, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

Despite Prime Minister Ariel Henry announcing his resignation, the violence continues unabated.&nbsp;

Henry has pledged to step down upon the formation of a transitional presidential council.&nbsp;

Gangs, emboldened by the power vacuum, persist in their campaign of terror, defying calls for peace and stability.

<h2>What is happening in Port-au-Prince?</h2>

The beleaguered capital remains paralysed with its streets engulfed in flames of unrest and uncertainty.&nbsp;

Recent attacks, including a devastating fire at the main prison and the targeted assault on the residence of the national police chief, have plunged Haiti deeper into turmoil.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/charter-flight-carrying-30-us-citizens-arrives-in-miami-from-gang-violence-hit-haiti-701434">With only one hospital operating, Haiti's healthcare system collapses amid raging gang violence</a>

Haiti's government has imposed a nighttime curfew extension in a desperate bid to stem the tide of violence.&nbsp;

However, the gang violence continues with the targeted destruction of critical infrastructure as well as the delay in the deployment of a UN-backed police force from Kenya. The decision to withhold intervention until the establishment of a transitional council continues to add to the crisis.

Also watch |&nbsp;Haiti gang violence: Haiti healthcare system on the verge of collapse; doctors murdered

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The spectre of further violence continues to loom over Haiti amid a relentless onslaught of violence by armed gangs on a rampage.

Since January 2023, the UN has reported that&nbsp;while 5,000 people have been displaced, 2,439 people have died in Haiti. 
 
In the first nine months of 2023, there were over 5,600 gang-related incidents, including 3,156 killings and 1,248 kidnappings.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a rapid escalation of gang violence in Haiti, gunmen launched a brazen assault on two affluent neighbourhoods in the capital of the Caribbean Sea. The attack, which targeted the communities of Laboule and Thomassin before dawn on Monday (March 18), has shattered the relative peace that had prevailed in these areas despite a surge in gang activity across Port-au-Prince.

In a rapid escalation of gang violence in Haiti, gunmen launched a brazen assault on two affluent neighbourhoods in the capital of the Caribbean Sea. The attack, which targeted the communities of Laboule and Thomassin before dawn on Monday (March 18), has shattered the relative peace that had prevailed in these areas despite a surge in gang activity across Port-au-Prince. At least a dozen people reportedly died in this episode of violence in Haiti neighbourhoods. Residents were forced to flee their homes as assailants ransacked properties. Desperate pleas for help flooded radio stations as terrified civilians sought refuge from the onslaught. The grim aftermath of the assault was evident in the streets of nearby Pétion-Ville, where the bodies of at least twelve individuals lay strewn, news agency AFP reported. Despite Prime Minister Ariel Henry announcing his resignation, the violence continues unabated. Henry has pledged to step down upon the formation of a transitional presidential council. Gangs, emboldened by the power vacuum, persist in their campaign of terror, defying calls for peace and stability. What is happening in Port-au-Prince? The beleaguered capital remains paralysed with its streets engulfed in flames of unrest and uncertainty. Recent attacks, including a devastating fire at the main prison and the targeted assault on the residence of the national police chief, have plunged Haiti deeper into turmoil. Also read | With only one hospital operating, Haiti's healthcare system collapses amid raging gang violence Haiti's government has imposed a nighttime curfew extension in a desperate bid to stem the tide of violence. However, the gang violence continues with the targeted destruction of critical infrastructure as well as the delay in the deployment of a UN-backed police force from Kenya. The decision to withhold intervention until the establishment of a transitional council continues to add to the crisis. Also watch | Haiti gang violence: Haiti healthcare system on the verge of collapse; doctors murdered × The spectre of further violence continues to loom over Haiti amid a relentless onslaught of violence by armed gangs on a rampage. Since January 2023, the UN has reported that while 5,000 people have been displaced, 2,439 people have died in Haiti. In the first nine months of 2023, there were over 5,600 gang-related incidents, including 3,156 killings and 1,248 kidnappings. (With inputs from agencies)

Haiti violence claims dozen lives in affluent neighbourhoods as Caribbean nation teeters on brink of collapse

Jimmy Cherizier, the elite police officer-turned-gang leader known as “Barbecue,” has risen through Haiti’s political vacuum to become one of the country’s most powerful men...the island country is in chaos due to the recent developments. Watch to know more!

Haiti gang violence: Haiti healthcare system on the verge of collapse; doctors murdered

The United States government, on Saturday (Mar 16) said that it is arranging a charter flight for its citizens stranded in Haiti as gang violence grips the country.&nbsp;

<h2>US to evacuate citizens</h2>

The US State Department said the charter flight would evacuate those with valid passports from Haiti and leave from Cap-Haitien International Airport. However, it can only accommodate limited travel given the ongoing violence in the country.&nbsp;

The US officials also warned that the travel from the Haitian capital, Port-au-Prince to Cap-Haitien would be “dangerous” and advised that people should only consider the flight if they can safely make it to the Cap-Haitien airport.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haiti-crisis-proposal-to-install-new-govt-rejected-by-some-political-parties-700066">Haiti crisis: Proposal to install new govt rejected by some political parties</a>

The airport is said to be in the less chaotic northern city of Cap-Haitien which is around 193 kilometres away from Port-au-Prince. The ongoing attacks have also prompted the US to deploy troops in Haiti to secure the American Embassy.&nbsp;

Haiti has witnessed a wave of violence after gangs called for the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry. However, without a clear plan to replace him, attacks continued across parts of Port-au-Prince. The weeks-long ongoing violence has pushed the citizens of Haiti to the brink of famine.&nbsp;

<h2>Guatemala consul offices ransacked</h2>

Meanwhile, the Guatemalan foreign ministry, on Saturday, said that the offices of its honorary consul in Haiti were ransacked but did not give details about the damage and theft. The attack, as per the Guatemalan officials, took place on Friday (Mar 15).&nbsp;

The ministry has also said that only those with “paperwork and documentation of the last four or five years had been previously transferred” to the Guatemala Embassy for Haiti which is located in the neighbouring Dominican Republic, reported the Associated Press.

<h2>Situation in Haiti</h2>

While Haiti has witnessed years of violence and chaos, the recent wave is particularly brutal with gangs demanding Henry’s resignation who pledged to step down last week&nbsp;as soon as a transition council and a temporary leader are chosen.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The unelected PM, who assumed power after the assassination of Haiti’s last president, was supposed to step down in February. However, when he did not, deadly protests seeking his ouster erupted in the country’s capital last month.&nbsp;

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/embattled-haiti-pm-ariel-henry-has-resigned-confirms-caricom-president-irfaan-ali-699183">&nbsp;Embattled Haiti PM Ariel Henry quits amid rise in gang violence</a>

Henry is currently stranded in Puerto Rico as an escalation of violence has prevented him from going back to Haiti.&nbsp;

According to local media reports, police were facing off against gangs in the Delmas area, on Friday, which is a stronghold of the G9 alliance led by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-who-is-jimmy-barbecue-cherizier-haiti-gang-boss-tells-pm-to-quit-or-face-civil-war-697516">Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier</a>.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, humanitarian situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate with around 1.4 million Haitians on the verge of famine and more than four million in need of food aid, according to media reports that cited aid groups.&nbsp;

UNICEF also warned of record hunger and life-threatening malnutrition in the capital’s poorest and most dangerous neighbourhoods. One in four children across Haiti&nbsp;suffer&nbsp;from chronic malnutrition or stunting, said the UN agency.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The United States government, on Saturday (Mar 16) said that it is arranging a charter flight for its citizens stranded in Haiti as gang violence grips the country.

The United States government, on Saturday (Mar 16) said that it is arranging a charter flight for its citizens stranded in Haiti as gang violence grips the country. US to evacuate citizens The US State Department said the charter flight would evacuate those with valid passports from Haiti and leave from Cap-Haitien International Airport. However, it can only accommodate limited travel given the ongoing violence in the country. The US officials also warned that the travel from the Haitian capital, Port-au-Prince to Cap-Haitien would be “dangerous” and advised that people should only consider the flight if they can safely make it to the Cap-Haitien airport. Also Read | Haiti crisis: Proposal to install new govt rejected by some political parties The airport is said to be in the less chaotic northern city of Cap-Haitien which is around 193 kilometres away from Port-au-Prince. The ongoing attacks have also prompted the US to deploy troops in Haiti to secure the American Embassy. Haiti has witnessed a wave of violence after gangs called for the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry. However, without a clear plan to replace him, attacks continued across parts of Port-au-Prince. The weeks-long ongoing violence has pushed the citizens of Haiti to the brink of famine. Guatemala consul offices ransacked Meanwhile, the Guatemalan foreign ministry, on Saturday, said that the offices of its honorary consul in Haiti were ransacked but did not give details about the damage and theft. The attack, as per the Guatemalan officials, took place on Friday (Mar 15). The ministry has also said that only those with “paperwork and documentation of the last four or five years had been previously transferred” to the Guatemala Embassy for Haiti which is located in the neighbouring Dominican Republic, reported the Associated Press. Situation in Haiti While Haiti has witnessed years of violence and chaos, the recent wave is particularly brutal with gangs demanding Henry’s resignation who pledged to step down last week as soon as a transition council and a temporary leader are chosen. The unelected PM, who assumed power after the assassination of Haiti’s last president, was supposed to step down in February. However, when he did not, deadly protests seeking his ouster erupted in the country’s capital last month. Also Read | Embattled Haiti PM Ariel Henry quits amid rise in gang violence Henry is currently stranded in Puerto Rico as an escalation of violence has prevented him from going back to Haiti. According to local media reports, police were facing off against gangs in the Delmas area, on Friday, which is a stronghold of the G9 alliance led by Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier. Meanwhile, humanitarian situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate with around 1.4 million Haitians on the verge of famine and more than four million in need of food aid, according to media reports that cited aid groups. UNICEF also warned of record hunger and life-threatening malnutrition in the capital’s poorest and most dangerous neighbourhoods. One in four children across Haiti suffer from chronic malnutrition or stunting, said the UN agency. (With inputs from agencies)

Haiti violence: US announces charter flight to evacuate Americans; Guatemala honorary consul office ransacked

The escalating violence in Haiti has led to shortages of food and water in the country. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Saturday (Mar 9), the unrest has crippled Haiti's fragile economy and made it extremely difficult for many of the country's most vulnerable to feed themselves.

The escalating violence in Haiti has led to shortages of food and water in the country. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Saturday (Mar 9), the unrest has crippled Haiti's fragile economy and made it extremely difficult for many of the country's most vulnerable to feed themselves. The report said that the main port in the capital city of Port-au-Prince closed down stranding scores of containers full of food and medical supplies. The closure comes at a time when the United Nations said that half of the country's over 11 million inhabitants don’t have enough to eat, and 1.4 million are starving. The report added that grocery stores in upscale parts of the capital remain stocked, but their goods are out of reach to most people. Street vendors losing livelihoods due to violence Street vendors in the country are losing their livelihoods and are unsure about how will they feed their families. Speaking to the Associated Press, Michel Jean, a street vendor, said, "I don’t know how long this is going to last. I’m hoping this crisis is over, and that people can go back to their regular life." Also read | Explained: Who is Jimmy ‘Barbecue’ Chérizier, Haiti gang boss who threatened civil war Another street vendor told the news agency that he worries that elderly people are dying in their homes, with some people unable to venture out for food and water because gangs control their neighbourhoods. The report said that as more and more people are left unemployed, street vendors are selling smaller amounts of essential goods. Since the gang attacks started on February 29, scores of people have been killed and more than 15,000 have been forced from their homes. Gangs are calling for the overthrow of the government of Prime Minister Ariel Henry. Prime Minister Henry arrived in Puerto Rico on Tuesday after he was unable to land in the Dominican Republic, which borders Haiti. On Thursday, the government extended a state of emergency amid mass lootings and attacks on police stations. Schools, banks, and most government agencies remain closed. On Friday Heavy gunfire was seen near Haiti’s national palace in Port-au-Prince. According to ABC News, gangs had launched a large-scale assault against multiple government buildings in or near downtown Port-au-Prince. UN rights chief calls global community to help Haiti Earlier this week, United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk called the international community for action to help Haiti. "I urge the international community to act swiftly and decisively to prevent Haiti's further descent into chaos. Last weekend’s mass prison breakout has been described by Haitian officials as a lethal threat to national security. More than 4,500 inmates are now known to have escaped, among them prominent gang members as well as those arrested in connection with the assassination of late President Jovenel Moise," Turk said in a video statement. Also watch | Haiti crisis: Gangs overrun Haiti's capital Port-au-Prince, will there be a coup? × "This situation is beyond untenable for the people of Haiti. Since the beginning of the year, a staggering 1,193 people were killed, and 692 others were injured in the gang violence," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Haiti violence: Ongoing unrest cripples economy, triggers food and water shortage

Haiti’s state of emergency, with gangs threatening civil war, widespread violence and no elected officials, the country faces an unprecedented crisis. Its people must be heard. Watch to know more!

Haiti on the boil, families flee the region in terror | Gangs calling to oust Prime Minister

Haiti: Gang leaders demand Prime Minister's resignation, biggest critics of PM

Haiti’s state of emergency. With gangs threatening civil war, widespread violence and no elected officials, the country faces an unprecedented crisis. Its people must be heard.

Haiti crisis: Gangs overrun Haiti's capital Port-au-Prince, will there be a coup?

Haiti’s state of emergency, with gangs threatening civil war, widespread violence and no elected officials, the country faces an unprecedented crisis. Its people must be heard.

Haiti PM stranded in Puerto Rico as he tried to return home amidst gang violence

The United States said on Wednesday it was calling on Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry to expedite a political transition as armed gangs seek his ouster amid a collapse in security and a humanitarian crisis in the Caribbean nation.

US pushes Haiti PM to speed transition as gangs threaten civil war

Haitians face arson attacks, shortages as gang violence escalates

The UN Security Council will meet in private to discuss the worsening circumstances in Haiti. The Caribbean nation's city, Port-au-Prince, has seen severe gang violence recently. This is related to an attempt by a gang leader to remove current prime minister Ariel Henry from office while he was out of the country.

Haiti tensions escalate: Haiti gang leader warns of 'civil war'

Stronger criminal gangs than the nation's security services have targeted jails and the airport that serves the city, pushing 15,000 people from their homes in Port-au-Prince and closing businesses and schools in the process.

Haiti Violence: ‘It has been pure terror’ says residents as seven days of chaos continues

The US has closely watching the gang takeover of Haiti. The UN Security Council will meet in private to discuss the worsening circumstances in Haiti. The Caribbean nation's city, Port-au-Prince, has seen severe gang violence recently. This is related to an attempt by a gang leader to remove current prime minister Ariel Henry from office while he was out of the country.

Haiti's Prime Minister locked out of his country | Faces pressure to resign

A wave of panic has swept through Haiti. Once again, gang violence and heavy gun fire broke out in the country's capital of Port-au-Prince on Thursday. The gang leader said that he aims to capture Police Chief & Ministers.

Fresh gang violence erupts in Haiti, gang leaderaims to capture Police Chief & Ministers

At least seven people were killed in Haiti on Saturday, local rights group CARDH said, after a gang that controls a northern suburb of the capital Port-au-Prince opened fire with machine guns on a protest organised by a Christian church leader.

Local media reported at least 10 had been killed, and CARDH director Gedeon Jean said the final number would likely be higher, adding that several people were wounded and some churchgoers had been kidnapped.

Watch | Unable to feed 100,000 Haitians this month: United Nations

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Videos shared on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, showed some 100 people, many wearing yellow shirts associated with the religious group of Pastor Marco, marching in the suburb Canaan, some carrying sticks and machetes.

Unverified videos on social media show people being shot at in the street, bodies lying on the ground and people who appear to be hostages saying they thought the march was peaceful and had no idea it was about taking on the gang.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-gunman-kills-3-himself-in-racially-motivated-florida-store-shooting-629586">White gunman kills 3, himself in 'racially motivated' Florida store shooting</a>

Many Haitians have joined civilian self-defense groups known as "Bwa Kale," a movement that has inspired hope but also sparked retaliation against civilians and stirred fears the groups are spurring on the violence.

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At least seven people were killed in Haiti on Saturday, local rights group CARDH said, after a gang that controls a northern suburb of the capital Port-au-Prince opened fire with machine guns on a protest organised by a Christian church leader.

At least seven people were killed in Haiti on Saturday, local rights group CARDH said, after a gang that controls a northern suburb of the capital Port-au-Prince opened fire with machine guns on a protest organised by a Christian church leader. Local media reported at least 10 had been killed, and CARDH director Gedeon Jean said the final number would likely be higher, adding that several people were wounded and some churchgoers had been kidnapped. Watch | Unable to feed 100,000 Haitians this month: United Nations × Videos shared on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, showed some 100 people, many wearing yellow shirts associated with the religious group of Pastor Marco, marching in the suburb Canaan, some carrying sticks and machetes. Unverified videos on social media show people being shot at in the street, bodies lying on the ground and people who appear to be hostages saying they thought the march was peaceful and had no idea it was about taking on the gang. Also Read | White gunman kills 3, himself in 'racially motivated' Florida store shooting Many Haitians have joined civilian self-defense groups known as "Bwa Kale," a movement that has inspired hope but also sparked retaliation against civilians and stirred fears the groups are spurring on the violence. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

At least 7 killed after Haiti gang opens fire with machine guns on church-led protest: Rights group

As per the United Nations, last month, in Haiti, more than 600 people died in gang violence — around a 28 per cent spike from the number of deaths recorded last quarter. As per the UN, these deaths happened in areas where authorities lacked the capacity to protect civilians.

Speaking to the press, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk said: "Every report I get from Haiti underlines the scale of the suffering and rams home the message that Haitians need urgent support and they need it now."

He further reiterated his call for the international community to send a specialised force to help out Haiti police and authorities in their quest to restore peace.

"The government, with support from the international community, must do its utmost to comply with its obligation to provide people with regular and unimpeded access to clean water, food, health and shelter," he said.

UN's quarterly update for the months of January to March found that in the nation, violence was "becoming more extreme and more frequent (and) spreading relentlessly as gangs seek to extend their control".

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haiti-un-flags-violence-as-531-die-in-gang-wars-in-2023-so-far-574337">Haiti: UN flags violence as 531 die in gang wars in 2023 so far</a>

Citing the report which was released on Tuesday (May 9th) the UN high commissioner's office said: "In the month of April alone, more than 600 people were killed in a new wave of extreme violence that hit several districts across the capital."&nbsp;

"This follows the killing of at least 846 people in the first three months of 2023, in addition to 393 injured and 395 kidnapped during that period — a 28-per cent increase in violence on the previous quarter."

As per Turk's office, the areas that were previously considered safe were now affected.

Gangs are reportedly using snipers to "indiscriminately" shoot people in the streets and are also "firing into homes".

Furthermore, people were "being burned alive on public transport," but authorities do not have the "capacity to respond," forcing civilians to form vigilante groups to fight the gangs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haiti-over-dozen-suspected-gang-members-lynched-burned-alive-by-residents-585834">Haiti: Over dozen suspected gang members lynched, burned alive by residents</a>

This, as per AFP, has led to a rise in "mob killings and lynchings of alleged gang members". In April, at least 164 such murders were documented.

Volker Turk, who last week warned that Haiti is "dangling over an abyss" says that the vigilante killings "will only fuel the spiral of violence."

(With inputs from agencies)

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As per the United Nations, last month, in Haiti, more than 600 people died in gang violence — around a 28 per cent spike from the number of deaths recorded last quarter.

As per the United Nations, last month, in Haiti, more than 600 people died in gang violence — around a 28 per cent spike from the number of deaths recorded last quarter. As per the UN, these deaths happened in areas where authorities lacked the capacity to protect civilians. Speaking to the press, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk said: "Every report I get from Haiti underlines the scale of the suffering and rams home the message that Haitians need urgent support and they need it now." He further reiterated his call for the international community to send a specialised force to help out Haiti police and authorities in their quest to restore peace. "The government, with support from the international community, must do its utmost to comply with its obligation to provide people with regular and unimpeded access to clean water, food, health and shelter," he said. UN's quarterly update for the months of January to March found that in the nation, violence was "becoming more extreme and more frequent (and) spreading relentlessly as gangs seek to extend their control". Also read | Haiti: UN flags violence as 531 die in gang wars in 2023 so far Citing the report which was released on Tuesday (May 9th) the UN high commissioner's office said: "In the month of April alone, more than 600 people were killed in a new wave of extreme violence that hit several districts across the capital." "This follows the killing of at least 846 people in the first three months of 2023, in addition to 393 injured and 395 kidnapped during that period — a 28-per cent increase in violence on the previous quarter." As per Turk's office, the areas that were previously considered safe were now affected. Gangs are reportedly using snipers to "indiscriminately" shoot people in the streets and are also "firing into homes". Furthermore, people were "being burned alive on public transport," but authorities do not have the "capacity to respond," forcing civilians to form vigilante groups to fight the gangs. Also read | Haiti: Over dozen suspected gang members lynched, burned alive by residents This, as per AFP, has led to a rise in "mob killings and lynchings of alleged gang members". In April, at least 164 such murders were documented. Volker Turk, who last week warned that Haiti is "dangling over an abyss" says that the vigilante killings "will only fuel the spiral of violence." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN sounds alarm over 'new wave of extreme violence' in Haiti; 600 killed in April

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