Serious Security Breach in Haiti: Armed Attack at Hospital Press Conference

Armed men opened fire at a press conference in Haiti, resulting in the deaths of at least two individuals, including a journalist and a police officer. The attack occurred amid a surge in gang violence as armed groups increasingly assert control over the capital, Port-au-Prince, where only 24 percent of health facilities are operational. Calls for international support remain largely unmet as the humanitarian crisis deepens.

At least two individuals, including a police officer and a journalist, were tragically killed during a press conference in Haiti, where journalists had gathered to discuss the reopening of the nation’s largest public hospital. The attack occurred in Port-au-Prince amidst escalating violence, attributed to armed gangs that are reportedly gaining control over large areas of the city. Witnesses indicated that the shooting began shortly before the health minister was set to speak.

Health Minister Duckenson Lorthe Blema, appointed in November following a cabinet reshuffle, was present at the venue when gunfire erupted around 11 AM. The State University of Haiti Hospital, commonly referred to as the General Hospital, had been closed due to a surge in gang-related violence. On several occasions, including a previous press conference celebrating the hospital’s regained control, officials had faced violent attacks.

The transitional presidential council condemned the attack and expressed condolences to the victims’ families, particularly to the Haitian National Police and journalism associations. This incident underlines the dire state of security in Haiti, where gangs reportedly control between 80 and 90 percent of the capital. Currently, only 24 percent of health facilities in the metropolitan area are operational, reflecting the ongoing crisis in public services.

The international community’s response has been slow, with promises of support for Haitian security forces remaining largely unfulfilled. Despite the approval of an international mission, led by Kenya, deployment has been limited, and local calls for enhanced peacekeeping forces have been met with opposition at the United Nations Security Council.

This recent violence highlights the precarious situation in Haiti, where armed groups operate with relative impunity, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.

The situation in Haiti has escalated into a state of crisis, particularly in urban areas like Port-au-Prince, where armed gangs exert considerable influence. Since the ousting of former Prime Minister Ariel Henry, security has deteriorated, leading to increasing attacks and instability. This environment of violence poses enormous challenges for health services, with only a quarter of facilities currently functional due to the pervasive threat of gang violence. International support has been scant, and the government has struggled to reclaim control, leaving civilians vulnerable.

The recent tragedy at the hospital press conference underscores the urgent need for improved security measures in Haiti, as the country grapples with overwhelming gang violence. The loss of lives during such an event not only reflects a broader societal issue but also calls into question the adequacy of the international response to Haiti’s ongoing crisis. Consistent efforts must be made to restore order and provide essential services, particularly in the realm of healthcare, which remains severely compromised.

Original Source: www.lismorecitynews.com.au