US and Panama Deploy New Force to Combat Gangs in Haiti

The United States and Panama are proposing the deployment of a new multinational force of 5,550 personnel to Haiti, aimed at combating the escalating violence perpetrated by gangs in the nation. This initiative comes in response to a dire security crisis, with gangs currently controlling approximately 90% of the capital, Port-au-Prince.

Officials announced the plan this week, highlighting that the proposed force would possess the authority to detain gang suspects and restore order in a country plagued by lawlessness since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021. Since that pivotal event, gang activity has surged, with reports of looting, kidnappings, and sexual assaults extending beyond urban areas into the countryside.

Haiti has been without a functioning president since Moïse"s death, contributing to a power vacuum that has allowed criminal organizations to flourish. The situation has drawn international attention, as the humanitarian crisis deepens and the need for intervention becomes increasingly urgent.

The deployment of this multinational force is seen as a critical step to stabilize the region and support the Haitian National Police in regaining control. Similar situations have been observed in other parts of the Caribbean and Latin America, prompting discussions on regional security collaborations. In light of recent developments in Haiti, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, signaling a commitment to addressing the ongoing turmoil.

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