Haiti Prime Minister Resigns Amid Gang Violence and Political Turmoil, U.N. Police Mission Planned
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Prime Minister Ariel Henry resigned amid increasing political pressure and demands from powerful gangs leaders that he step down. He said he would resign once a transitional presidential council is established.
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Armed gangs have caused widespread violence, looting, and shortages of basic necessities like food and medicine. Gang roadblocks have made travel very difficult.
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The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 "do not travel" advisory for Haiti due to the unpredictable, dangerous security situation.
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A U.N.-backed international police mission is expected to deploy soon to help restore security and enable free and fair elections. The U.S. pledged $300 million towards this mission.
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A transitional presidential council with representatives from various sectors will be formed to appoint an interim prime minister. Council members cannot run in the next elections.