Haitian Prime Minister’s plane diverted to Puerto Rico

Santo Domingo.- The private plane carrying Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry was forced to land in San Juan, Puerto Rico, as the Dominican Government denied authorization for landing on Dominican territory. Departing from Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, USA, the plane successfully landed at Luis Muñoz Marín Airport in Puerto Rico, within North American territory.

The Dominican Government’s refusal led to the plane’s diversion, with security authorities evaluating the situation for hours but ultimately not granting entry into Dominican territory. Prime Minister Ariel Henry had just concluded a tour to Kenya, where he aimed to secure an agreement for a multinational force to restore order and security in Haiti.

Haiti currently faces a state of emergency and a three-day curfew due to escalating violence, including a significant prison break in Port-au-Prince, resulting in an estimated escape of close to five thousand prisoners. Ariel Henry’s return to Haiti has been hindered by the occupation of the main airport by criminal gangs and ongoing violence.

Ariel Henry’s trip to Kenya aimed to establish an understanding that allows coordination for a multinational force to stabilize Haiti. Meanwhile, armed gangs in Haiti have demanded Ariel Henry’s departure, further complicating the already tense situation.

The diplomatic conflict between Haiti and the Dominican Republic over the unauthorized construction of an irrigation canal on the Masacre River continues. International organizations have been analyzing the situation, visiting both countries and preparing a report on the ongoing conflict.