Haitian Prime Minister announces reinforcement of international soldiers

Haitian Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé stated on Tuesday that his government is determined to fight against armed gangs with the support of Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele. He asserts that with more than 4,000 international soldiers on the ground, including forces sent by El Salvador and other allied countries, the gang threat is diminishing.

Fils-Aimé specified that these troops are reinforcing efforts already underway to locate four Salvadoran soldiers who have been missing since an ambush in the Southern Department. He thanked Bukele for understanding the gravity of the situation and emphasized the importance of the armored vehicles provided by these international forces.

The head of the Haitian government insisted that his country remains responsible for the political and strategic direction against criminal influence. He also reiterated the legal principles guiding all military operations, affirming that no human rights violations will be tolerated.

Haitian security forces are active in several high-risk areas around Port-au-Prince and other regions of the country. The goal is to restore peace to allow for the organization of democratic elections, which have been postponed until July 2027 due to security challenges.

Official Statement

He also declared that the time of the armed gangs is numbered and that they must understand the gravity of their situation.

Security Context

International forces are present in various departments of Haiti, particularly around Port-au-Prince. Their mission is to support local efforts to reduce the influence of armed gangs and restore public security.