Gangs in Haiti attack journalists covering the attempted reopening of the country’s main hospital
Associated Press2 days
Gang Attack at Haiti Hospital Kills Two Journalists, One Officer
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Above: The Haitian police patrol near Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince on Dec. 11, 2024. Image copyright: CLARENS SIFFROY/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Facts
Armed men opened fire on journalists, police and medical staff gathered for a press conference at Haiti's largest public hospital on Tuesday, killing two reporters and one police officer and wounding at least seven journalists.
The attack occurred around 11 am (local time) as journalists awaited Haiti's health minister for the announced reopening of the State University Hospital, which had been closed since March due to gang violence.
The Spin
Narrative A
This attack is a direct challenge to government authority and demonstrates the gangs' complete control over vital infrastructure. The targeting of journalists and a hospital reopening ceremony shows these groups can act with impunity and prevent any attempts to restore normal services.
Narrative B
Despite gang opposition, the Haitian government is committed to restoring order and public services and reestablishing state control over critical institutions. This heinous attack on police and journalists is a macabre scene comparable to terrorism and will not stand without consequences.
