Armed gangs in Haiti launched an attack on Port-au-Prince on 25 February 2025, resulting in the deaths of approximately a dozen residents and two Haitian soldiers. These violent clashes between rival gangs and attacks on communities have forced at least 6,000 people to flee their homes in Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas in just one month.
For instance, on 13 February, armed groups set fire to the State University Hospital of Haiti (HUEH), limiting access to essential health services. The Humanitarian Coordinator from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs condemned the attack, especially considering that in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area (ZMPAP), only 41% of health facilities with beds are fully functional.
In recent years, Haiti’s security crisis has worsened dramatically. Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, gangs have capitalized on political instability and the absence of an effective government response. Currently, an estimated 80% of Port-au-Prince is controlled by armed groups, who extort businesses, kidnap civilians for ransom, and cut off access to essential resources like food and medical care.
During February 2025, violent clashes between rival gangs and attacks on communities forced at least 6,000 people to flee their homes in Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas, according to reports from humanitarian organizations. On 19 February, a wave of violence erupted in Cité Soleil, one of the capital’s largest slums, where gangs engaged in a brutal territorial battle. Local authorities reported at least 30 deaths and over 50 injuries, with countless homes and businesses looted or destroyed. Eyewitnesses recounted stories of entire families being forced to flee with only the clothes on their backs.
The United Nations has warned that Haiti is facing a catastrophic humanitarian emergency, with over 5.2 million people—nearly half the population—requiring urgent assistance. The country’s worsening security situation has made it nearly impossible for aid organizations to reach those in need, as gangs continue to block roads and attack convoys transporting food and medical supplies.
Despite growing international concern, efforts to stabilize Haiti have faced significant challenges. A proposed multinational security force, led by Kenya and backed by the United Nations, has yet to be deployed due to legal and logistical hurdles. Meanwhile, Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s government remains under intense pressure to restore order but has been unable to curb gang violence.
Experts stress the urgent need for a coordinated international response, including increased humanitarian aid, targeted sanctions against gang leaders, and greater support for Haitian law enforcement efforts. The Security Council’s July resolution renewing BINUH’s mandate urges member states to take all necessary measures to stop illegal arms from entering Haiti, “including through inspecting cargo to Haiti, in their territory.”
By: Kaitlyn Llerena
