State Department Urge U.S. Citizens to Leave Haiti as Soon as Possible, Flags ‘Current Security Situation’

State Department Urge U.S. Citizens to Leave Haiti as Soon as Possible, Flags ‘Current Security Situation’

As the Caribbean nation of Haiti grapples with escalating security concerns and infrastructure challenges, the U.S. State Department has issued an urgent advisory for all U.S. citizens in the country to leave as soon as possible. The move comes in response to a deteriorating security situation and growing instability, which have prompted local evacuations and widespread protests. The advisory emphasizes the need for immediate departure via commercial or private transport due to the evolving crisis.

Immediate Departure Urged Amidst Security Concerns

The U.S. State Department’s updated security alert issued on Wednesday strongly urges U.S. citizens currently in Haiti to depart at the earliest opportunity. The advisory underscores the current security situation and infrastructure challenges that have created a volatile environment for both residents and visitors alike. While the advisory acknowledges the availability of flights from Haiti’s international airports, it highlights the possibility of limited seating due to high demand. Consequently, U.S. citizens are encouraged to book flights well in advance to secure their departure.

Challenges of Departure Amid Limited Flight Availability

Flights out of Haiti are in high demand, and seats may fill up quickly, with availability possibly extending several days or even weeks in advance of the intended departure. The State Department recommends considering early booking as seats are expected to be limited. The advisory provides a “non-exhaustive list” of commercial airlines servicing Haiti, including American Airlines, JetBlue, Spirit, Air Caraibe, and Sunrise Airways. However, it warns that the situation is fluid and evolving rapidly, necessitating vigilance and flexibility in travel plans.

Security Measures and Travel Advisories for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens are advised to exercise extreme caution when traveling within Haiti, avoiding demonstrations and large gatherings of people. Given the volatility of the security situation, Americans are encouraged to have contingency plans in place for sheltering in place or accessing airports, as well as to review travel guidance for high-risk areas. The State Department’s website notes that traveling to high-risk areas increases the risk of serious dangers such as kidnapping, hostage-taking, theft, and injuries. Moreover, U.S. citizens are reminded that in high-risk areas, they are subject to the laws and legal systems of the host country, with limited assistance from U.S. authorities.

Rising Gang Violence and Instability Triggers Concerns

The decision to issue the advisory was likely prompted by the rapidly escalating gang violence and instability in Haiti. Recent incidents of gang violence, local evacuations, and widespread protests have contributed to an environment of uncertainty and insecurity. The Haitian National Police have been grappling with increasing gang violence, and recent events, including the fatal shooting of parishioners during a protest, further underscore the security challenges faced by the country.

Parishioners Targeted: Gang Violence Claims Innocent Lives

The dire consequences of the security situation were tragically illustrated when a religious leader and his parishioners attempted to rid their community of gang members. Unfortunately, their efforts were met with violence as unidentified individuals armed with assault rifles opened fire on the group. The incident resulted in multiple casualties, and several individuals were abducted. The grim incident highlighted the extent to which gang violence has permeated everyday life in certain parts of Haiti, leaving even those who seek to counteract it vulnerable to targeted attacks.

Interrogation of Colombian Suspects in Moïse Assassination Case

In addition to the escalating gang violence, Haiti is still grappling with the aftermath of the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021. Colombian suspects who are accused of being part of a mercenary squad responsible for the assassination are now being interrogated for the first time. The suspects, former Colombian soldiers, had previously refused to cooperate with authorities. The investigation has faced numerous challenges, including a high turnover of judges overseeing the case, leading to slow progress in bringing those responsible to justice.