The United States carried out an evacuation of embassy staff from Haiti amid ongoing turmoil, a move confirmed through statements from the U.S. Southern Command and reported by Reuters. The operation highlighted the careful planning and coordination involved in protecting diplomats and other personnel in a rapidly changing security environment. It is noted that the evacuation flight did not include any Haitian citizens among its passengers, a detail emphasized in the briefing surrounding the mission and its security considerations.
In the immediate wake of the evacuation, officials indicated that Pentagon authorities were reviewing and responding to speculation about the potential deployment of Marines to Haiti. The focus remained on ensuring staff safety while evaluating options in light of evolving conditions on the ground. The discussions reflected a broader posture of preparedness and rapid decision making in response to potential changes in the political and security landscape.
On March 9, reports emerged about intensified violence in Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti, where gangs attacked the presidential palace. This followed a large-scale assault on March 8 targeting multiple government facilities in central Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas, according to law enforcement sources. The incidents involved gunfire and explosions, with attackers striking the Ministry of Internal Affairs and several police facilities, underscoring the severity of the security challenge facing authorities and residents alike.
Observers attributed the unrest in part to actions by Ariel Henry’s government, which had begun to tighten measures intended to disrupt organized crime networks. The moves were part of a broader strategy to restore public order, though they also sparked tensions and sparked concern among residents and international observers about stability and the potential for further violence in the city and beyond.
In response to these destabilizing developments, Port-au-Prince authorities had already implemented a state of emergency and a curfew to curb violence and restore some sense of safety for the populace. The curfew and emergency measures reflected a conventional approach to reclaim control in the face of organized crime and armed groups, aiming to reduce confrontations and protect civilian life while authorities work to reestablish essential services and governance structures.
As the situation evolved, international partners and humanitarian groups continued to monitor conditions and assess the needs of civilians affected by the unrest. The events highlighted the fragile security environment in parts of Haiti and the importance of unambiguous, timely communication from government officials to citizens and international stakeholders alike. Ongoing updates were expected as authorities coordinated with security forces and international organizations to address protection concerns and maintain orderly operations within the capital and key urban centers.