The United Nations Security Council has scheduled an emergency meeting to address the escalating violence in Haiti, spurred by a warning from gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, also known as “Barbecue,” that the country is on the brink of civil war and genocide. Cherizier has called for Prime Minister Ariel Henry to step down in order to prevent further chaos and bloodshed.
Prime Minister Henry, who was supposed to resign last month, has been unable to return to Haiti as the main airport is under attack and neighboring countries have denied him entry. This has left the country in a state of political turmoil and uncertainty.
In response to the surge in violence, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has announced an increase in their presence in Port-au-Prince to provide medical assistance to the growing number of casualties. The violence has forced 250 Cubans to be stranded in the capital after their flights were cancelled due to security concerns.
Reports indicate that at least 15,000 people have evacuated the worst-hit parts of the city, fleeing from armed gangs that have been causing destruction and chaos. The U.S. State Department has issued travel warnings advising Americans and State Department employees to exercise caution while in Haiti.
Despite the ongoing unrest, some businesses and transportation in Port-au-Prince have resumed operations. However, the situation remains volatile and unpredictable. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for urgent action and financial support for a multinational security mission to help stabilize the situation in Haiti before it spirals further out of control.
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