Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince, has descended into further turmoil as powerful armed gangs expand their control over key areas, leaving citizens trapped in a worsening humanitarian crisis.
The recent surge in violence comes amid preparations for a UN-backed security mission led by Kenyan forces, intended to stabilise the Caribbean nation. However, experts warn the situation may deteriorate further before any relief arrives.
Gangs Tighten Grip on Capital
Reports indicate criminal groups have effectively paralysed Port-au-Prince, with residents describing neighbourhoods transformed into war zones. Essential services have collapsed in many areas as gang leaders consolidate power.
"We're living in hell," one local resident told reporters, speaking on condition of anonymity. "No one can move freely anymore. Even basic supplies are running out."
International Response Stalls
The Kenyan government has pledged 1,000 police officers to lead a multinational security force, but deployment has faced repeated delays. Diplomatic sources suggest logistical challenges and concerns about mission parameters have slowed progress.
Meanwhile, Haiti's transitional government remains powerless to curb the violence, with police forces outgunned and outnumbered by well-armed gang factions.
Humanitarian Catastrophe Looms
United Nations agencies report:
- Over 300,000 internally displaced persons
- Acute shortages of food and medical supplies
- Collapsing healthcare infrastructure
Human rights organisations warn the situation meets all criteria for a formal humanitarian emergency declaration.
What Comes Next?
Security analysts suggest the window for effective international intervention may be closing rapidly. Without immediate action, Haiti risks becoming a fully failed state, with regional consequences for the entire Caribbean basin.
The coming weeks will prove critical as global powers weigh their next moves in what has become one of the world's most complex security challenges.
