The State Department has disclosed that close to 1,000 Americans have completed a 'crisis intake form' to request aid in Haiti, a country now labeled as 'one of the most dire humanitarian situations in the world.'
State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel made this statement following the arrival of dozens of Americans in Miami on a U.S. government-chartered evacuation flight from Haiti. Reports have surfaced of gang violence resulting in the deaths of at least 12 individuals in a suburb of Port-au-Prince, following looting incidents in upscale neighborhoods in the capital.
Patel emphasized the severity of the situation, citing ongoing gang violence that has rendered the security environment in Haiti unsustainable. He stressed the urgent need for attention to the region.
The crisis intake form on the State Department's website has seen a significant response, with the number of individuals seeking assistance nearing 1,000. Patel highlighted the continuous monitoring of the situation to assess the demand from U.S. citizens, security conditions, and available transportation options.
Concerns have escalated as recent incidents in Port-au-Prince involved gunmen looting homes in Laboule and Thomassin, leading to residents fleeing and distress calls to authorities. The discovery of 12 bodies in Pétionville has further underscored the escalating violence.
Despite Prime Minister Ariel Henry's announcement of resignation once a transitional presidential council is established, gang violence persists, raising doubts about the situation's resolution.
The State Department remains committed to prioritizing the safety and security of American citizens in Haiti, as the humanitarian crisis continues to unfold.
