URGENT UPDATE: U.S. Marines providing security for the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince, Haiti came under fire from suspected gang members on November 13, resulting in a brief shootout. This alarming security incident highlights the escalating violence in the region.
The incident, confirmed by Marine Corps spokesman Capt. Steven Keenan, occurred as Marines were actively supporting embassy security operations. “I can confirm that Marines supporting embassy security operations were fired upon by suspected gang members in Port-au-Prince, and the Marines returned fire on the evening of 13 Nov. No Marines were injured,” Keenan stated in an email to The Epoch Times.
This shootout underscores the urgent security challenges faced by U.S. personnel in Haiti, where gang violence has surged in recent months. Authorities report that gang-related incidents have significantly increased, putting both local residents and foreign nationals at risk. The latest reports indicate that Port-au-Prince has become increasingly dangerous, with gangs vying for control of key areas.
As the U.S. seeks to stabilize its presence in Haiti, this incident raises critical questions about the safety of American personnel in volatile environments. The U.S. Embassy has yet to comment further on security measures being implemented in response to this confrontation.
This developing situation is likely to draw attention from international security agencies and organizations monitoring the unrest in Haiti. The U.S. State Department has been approached for additional details on the shootout but has not yet responded.
As violence continues to plague Port-au-Prince, the implications of this incident are profound. It not only affects military operations but also raises concerns over the safety of civilians amid escalating gang conflicts.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. The urgent need for a resolution to the violence in Haiti is more pressing than ever.
