Gang violence force American citizens to flee Haiti

Escalating gang violence and political turmoil in Haiti have prompted the urgent evacuation of dozens of American citizens from the Caribbean nation, with many more awaiting rescue as the situation worsens.

Amid deserted streets and dwindling essential supplies like food and gas, the State Department facilitated a charter flight on Sunday to evacuate Americans from Cap-Haitien, located on Haiti’s north coast, to Miami International Airport.

According to the State Department, over 30 US citizens were safely evacuated, with government officials providing assistance for their next steps upon arrival in the United States. However, a Florida-based nonprofit reported that many others remain stranded, with more than 100 individuals seeking assistance to leave Haiti.

Among those still awaiting rescue are missionary Jill Dolan and her family, who are stuck in the capital city of Port-au-Prince. Despite the challenging circumstances, they expressed gratitude for being alive in a Facebook post shared by their nonprofit organization.

Additionally, Boyce Young, a 75-year-old former Marine from Georgia who arrived in Haiti in February for aid work, remains stranded along with another American missionary.

Efforts to evacuate Young have been hampered by safety concerns and limited transportation options, but his daughter remains hopeful for his swift evacuation.

The crisis in Haiti has intensified in recent weeks, with rival gangs wreaking havoc and seizing control of significant portions of Port-au-Prince, the country’s capital. Gang activity has severely disrupted the distribution of essential supplies, including food, fuel, and water, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

The State Department has pledged to continue assisting US citizens seeking to leave Haiti, acknowledging the rapidly evolving situation on the ground. Deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel described Haiti’s current condition as one of the most dire humanitarian situations globally and assured ongoing support for those affected by the crisis.