Amidst the escalating turmoil in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, with gangs seizing control and essential resources scarce, a stark reality emerges: Haiti stands on the brink of collapse.
Three years after President Jovenel Moïse’s assassination, Haiti finds itself without a functioning government. Prime Minister Ariel Henri’s recent resignation announcement further plunges the nation into uncertainty. Law enforcement and armed forces are unable to maintain order, leaving the population vulnerable.
While the situation demands attention, it does not necessitate American lives being put at risk.
President Biden is being urged to address the Haitian people directly, reaffirming America’s commitment to peace and stability in the region. Congress, in turn, must set aside partisan differences and pass legislation to provide assistance to Haitian law enforcement and the military. These measures, coupled with the allocation of funds for supplies and training, can help restore order without entangling U.S. troops in the conflict.
Furthermore, U.S. law enforcement agencies must act decisively to stem the flow of illicit arms to Haiti, which fuels the gangs’ firepower. Establishing a permanent envoy to Haiti would project stability and ensure a consistent American presence without risking lives.
Lt. Gen. Russel L. Honoré (Ret.), renowned for his leadership during Task Force Katrina and his mediation efforts in Haiti, emphasizes that while the situation is dire, American intervention need not entail loss of life.
