MSF reports surge in violence and casualties in Port-au-Prince

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has issued an alert regarding intensifying armed clashes in the metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Between October 18 and October 26, MSF hospitals in Tabarre and Cité Soleil treated 30 individuals injured by gunfire or drone explosions. The victims include women and children.

Davina Hayles, MSF mission chief in Haiti, expressed deep concern over the violence in densely populated neighborhoods. The escalation follows an October 18 ambush in the Plaine du Cul-de-Sac involving a vehicle from the Gang Repression Force (FRG), which resulted in several missing members.

The insecurity is severely hindering humanitarian operations. Blocked roads are preventing patients from reaching medical facilities and obstructing the delivery of essential supplies and medical personnel. MSF reported that some medical activities and water supply operations have been suspended. The organization is calling on Haitian authorities and all involved parties to protect civilians and ensure safe access to healthcare facilities.