标签： Haiti

Haiti is bracing for a potentially violent confrontation as Jimmy Chérizier, known by his alias ‘Barbecue,’ the leader of the ‘Viv Ansanm’ terrorist coalition, has issued a stark warning to the public. In a video message, Chérizier urged citizens to remain indoors starting Monday, November 17, 2025, as his group prepares to launch a major counter-offensive against law enforcement in the streets of Port-au-Prince. He emphasized the need to avoid civilian casualties, stating, ‘Leave the streets to ‘Viv Ansanm’ and the police so that we can confront them.’ The Haitian National Police (PNH) has taken the threat seriously, suspending all leave and vacations since November 16 and maintaining a high state of alert. The French Embassy in Haiti has also announced its closure on November 17 as a precautionary measure. This development follows a recent large-scale joint operation by the PNH, the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAD’H), and the Gang Suppression Force (GSF) against the ‘400 Mawozo’ gang, which has long held the communes of Tabarre and Croix-des-Bouquets hostage. Chérizier’s message underscores the escalating tensions in Haiti, as the country grapples with widespread gang violence and instability.

U.S. Marines stationed in Haiti to safeguard the American Embassy were involved in a firefight with suspected gang members earlier this week, according to military officials. The incident, which took place on Thursday evening in Port-au-Prince, saw Marines returning fire after being attacked. Captain Steven Keenan, a Marine Corps spokesperson, confirmed that no Marines were injured during the exchange. Keenan emphasized the Marines’ dedication to protecting U.S. embassies globally, stating they respond to threats with precision and professionalism. The U.S. State Department, Embassy in Haiti, and U.S. Southern Command have yet to comment on the incident. This clash follows heightened security measures implemented at the Embassy last year in response to escalating gang violence. In August, the Embassy announced the arrival of additional Marines to bolster security and support ongoing diplomatic efforts, including collaboration with Haitian police and a multinational security mission. Despite the volatile environment, the Embassy remains operational for emergency services, though it has reported nearby gunfire incidents earlier this year. The State Department had previously evacuated non-essential personnel in March 2024 and issued a travel advisory in July, declaring Haiti in a state of emergency.

During a regional security briefing in Canada on January 12, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the critical underfunding of the Kenyan-led security mission in Haiti. The mission, authorized by the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2793 on September 30, 2025, has deployed only 1,000 officers out of the required 5,500. Rubio emphasized the urgent need for increased financial and military support from the international community, stating that Kenya cannot manage the escalating violence in Haiti alone. The U.S. has funded the initial phase of the mission but called on other nations to contribute to the remaining months and provide additional personnel. Rubio described the situation as a ‘hemispheric crisis’ requiring shared responsibility, urging countries in the Caribbean and Latin America to step up. He also noted the establishment of a new United Nations Support Office and logistical structures managed by the Organization of American States (OAS), but stressed that the mission is now hindered by a significant funding gap. Rubio reiterated that the U.S. is in daily contact with potential troop-contributing countries and expressed gratitude for Kenya’s leadership while calling for greater regional participation to prevent Haiti from further descending into crisis.

On November 14, 2025, a significant police operation unfolded in Haiti’s Cul-de-Sac plain, involving specialized units, armored vehicles, and three troop transport helicopters. The operation, which began on the evening of November 13, led to intense clashes between law enforcement and terrorists, causing widespread panic among the local population. According to Divisional Inspector Garry Desrosiers, spokesperson for the Haitian National Police (PNH), at least seven terrorists were killed, and numerous others were injured. Authorities also confiscated several assault weapons and ammunition, including a high-precision .50 caliber American Barrett sniper rifle, known for its ability to penetrate thick steel plates at long distances. Notably, there were no casualties among the PNH officers. However, a PNH helicopter was destroyed during the operation. The aircraft, which was supporting ground units in the Croix-des-Bouquets area, experienced a suspected mechanical failure, prompting a forced landing. The eight officers on board were safely evacuated, and the helicopter was intentionally set on fire to prevent it from falling into terrorist hands. This operation underscores the ongoing challenges Haiti faces in combating terrorism and maintaining public safety.