A deadly coalition of Haiti armed groups intensified its hold on the country's capital by launching coordinated attacks in various parts of Port-au-Prince on Monday, including near the National Palace.

During one assault not far from downtown, at least four police officers sustained injuries and were receiving treatment at a local hospital, as confirmed by the Miami Herald.

An unnamed policeman recounted in a voice note circulating on WhatsApp that five officers were inside an armored vehicle when assailants opened fire.

He recounted that the vehicle failed to start, leaving only him unharmed.

Footage on social media depicted an armed individual, donned in a ski mask, claiming credit for the attack in the name of Haiti armed group leader "Izo 5 Segonn" (Izo Five Seconds).

Another video showcased the armored vehicle engulfed in flames.

Despite attempts, the Haiti National Police spokesperson could not be reached for comment.

Reports of heavy gunfire emerged in Pernier, near the US embassy, and downtown Port-au-Prince.

Although Haiti armed group hadn't breached the National Palace by late Monday, reports indicated their presence surrounding the area, heightening the sense of danger.

The siege, which commenced on Feb. 29, witnessed gangs targeting various establishments, including police stations, schools, hospitals, and crucial government sites, following a successful prison break from the country's largest penitentiaries.

While several businesses and health facilities faced looting and arson, the airport and the palace remained under police protection.

The escalating violence has displaced over 15,000 people from their homes in recent weeks, with more than 362,000 internally displaced persons recorded.

As political leaders in Haiti grapple with forming a new government and preparing for a multinational security mission led by Kenya, challenges persist.

Although a list of council members was submitted to outgoing Prime Minister Ariel Henry, concerns over the legality of the council and details of political agreements persist.

Henry's Dilemma and Transitional Council

Prime Minister Ariel Henry announced his resignation last month, contingent upon the formation of a transitional council, AP News reports.

Currently barred from Haiti while on an official trip to Kenya to advocate for the deployment of a UN-backed police force, Henry awaits the establishment of the transitional council.

This proposed council of nine members will undertake the selection of a new prime minister and council of ministers, yet its formalization remains pending amidst governmental concerns over constitutional legitimacy.

On Monday, Haiti's government expressed reservations regarding the creation of the council, citing constitutional and legal ambiguities.

Plans are in motion to uphold national laws, as the current council aims to create a joint commission to oversee the transition of duties.

Despite Henry receiving a list of nominees for the transitional council, uncertainties surrounding its legitimacy linger.

International Involvement and Escalating Crisis

International efforts to stabilize Haiti have faced challenges, according to The Guardian.

Jamaica's military reported the arrival of troops from the Bahamas and Belize for a training exercise, Trogon Shield, in collaboration with Canada.

Henry's previous calls for an international security force have seen limited progress, with concerns raised over escalating violence and the recruitment of children into gangs.

The onslaught of violence, now encroaching into previously peaceful areas, has raised concerns and speculation among observers.

Amy Wilentz, a seasoned journalist covering Haiti, suggests these attacks of Haiti armed group may aim to intimidate the political and economic elite residing in affluent enclaves, potentially influencing the country's future leadership.

Emmanuela Douyon, a Haitian activist, views the attacks as a strategic move by Haiti armed group to assert power and portray themselves as advocates for the marginalized populace.

Despite differing interpretations, the dire situation in Haiti is indisputable.

The UN recently warned of a looming catastrophe, with state institutions on the brink of collapse, violence rampant, and over 1.4 million people at risk of famine.

Amid the chaos, the health system is in peril, with several institutions ceasing operations, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian crisis.

Haiti's capital stands at a crossroads, grappling with unprecedented violence and political instability, while international efforts to restore order remain fraught with challenges.

As the crisis deepens, urgent action is imperative to avert further catastrophe and restore stability to the embattled nation.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

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