The United States has deployed a team of Marines to enhance security measures at its embassy in Port-au-Prince. This move, confirmed by the U.S. Southern Command, aims to support the existing security personnel amidst the deteriorating safety conditions in the Haitian capital.
The U.S. Marine Fleet-Anti-terrorism Security Team (FAST), known for its rapid deployment capabilities, was dispatched following a request from the Department of State. This deployment is intended to bolster the embassy’s security and facilitate a relief operation for the Marines already stationed there. The U.S. Embassy continues to operate on a limited basis, focusing on providing assistance to American citizens and supporting Haitian-led initiatives for a peaceful transition of power.
This latest military intervention marks the second instance within a week where U.S. forces have been mobilized to assist embassy staff in Haiti. Just days prior, U.S. military helicopters were deployed to evacuate non-essential personnel from the embassy grounds.
The escalation in violence in Haiti has seen armed gangs attempting to take control of government buildings. The interior ministry was notably targeted, with assailants using gas bombs to ignite fires within the premises. The situation further deteriorated as online footage emerged of Haitian police officers abandoning their posts, signaling a breakdown in local law enforcement capabilities.
Amidst these developments, the acting Prime Minister of Haiti, Ariel Henry, announced his decision to resign, citing security concerns that have prevented his safe return to Haiti. Henry is currently in Puerto Rico, accompanied by his security detail.
In addition to deploying the FAST team, the Department of Defense has announced a doubling of funding for the Multinational Security Support mission in Haiti. This initiative aims to expedite the deployment of international forces to assist the Haitian National Police in restoring order. The U.S. military’s involvement includes providing planning assistance, information sharing, airlift, and medical support to bolster the mission’s effectiveness.
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