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The United States has opted not to send troops to Haiti in response to the country’s escalating security crisis despite recent gang-led assaults on vital infrastructure.
A National Security Council official cited by various news outlets said, “The United States is not sending US troops to Haiti to support the Haitian national police’s security operations. We are urgently mobilizing all support we and the international community can immediately provide Haiti, especially to the Haitian national police, to ensure they are able to restore security for the sake of the people.”
Recent unity among Haitian gangs has intensified challenges to the government’s control, with significant attacks on the nation’s main seaport, airports, and prisons. In a notable confrontation, security forces battled gang members attempting to seize control of Port-au-Prince’s international airport, following successful prison breaks and a siege on the main port.
The White House is pushing for the rapid deployment of a Kenya-led international security mission to address the crisis. John Kirby, White House National Security Communications Advisor, emphasized ongoing efforts to stabilize the situation and secure an enduring political solution, stating, “We’re working with international partners to provide immediate support to the Haitian national police and expedite the deployment of the Multinational Security Support mission that will help restore security urgently.”
Despite the Biden administration’s commitment of $200 million to support the mission, funding hurdles persist, with the State Department encountering resistance from Congress regarding the allocation of resources necessary to initiate the deployment.
This all comes as the US embassy in Port-au-Prince has advised American citizens to evacuate via commercial or private flights amidst the turmoil.
