Haiti Crisis: US Citizens Evacuated Amid Violence
Evacuation Operation Initiated by the US
The United States has initiated the evacuation of its citizens from Haiti due to reports of escalating violence in the capital city, Port-au-Prince. The evacuation was organized by the State Department in response to nearly 1,600 US citizens seeking assistance amidst the turmoil.
Helicopter Evacuations and Security Concerns
Reports of fresh fighting and gunfire in Port-au-Prince, including in affluent areas, prompted the US government to start flying out Americans by helicopter to the Dominican Republic. State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel emphasized the dire security situation on the ground but assured that the evacuation operation was conducted with expertise and safety measures in place.
Evacuation Flights and Numbers
The evacuation flights are expected to operate daily, with each flight carrying approximately 30 Americans to safety. So far, 15 Americans have been evacuated from Santo Domingo to the Dominican Republic. Nearly 1,600 US citizens have registered for evacuation with the State Department.
Florida’s Involvement in the Evacuation Efforts
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced the successful evacuation of 14 Americans, including families and children, from Haiti. With around 360 Floridians still in Haiti, the state remains actively involved in ensuring the safety of its residents amidst the ongoing crisis.
Escalation of Violence in Haiti
Journalists and witnesses have reported intensified fighting in Port-au-Prince, with UNICEF chief Catherine Russell likening the situation to a chaotic scene from “Mad Max.” Recent clashes between locals and police resulted in the death of suspected gang members, including the leader known as Makandal.
Conclusion
The situation in Haiti remains volatile, with ongoing violence posing significant risks to both locals and foreign nationals. The evacuation efforts led by the US government aim to ensure the safety and well-being of American citizens caught in the midst of the crisis.
