Operation Uphold Democracy: A Complex Reality in Haiti

Strategic Insights -

In the midst of widespread violence and human rights abuses, Operation Uphold Democracy appears to be making progress in Haiti. US officials, including Admiral William Owens, the second-ranking officer, claim that American troops are being received with cheers in rural areas and are expanding their reach. Despite the challenges, Owens expresses confidence that the situation is stable enough for the return of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide on October 15. The US military has seized over 1,000 weapons, but estimates suggest that only a small fraction of the total number of arms in Haiti have been found.

Key Takeaways:

  • The US military has seized over 1,000 weapons in Haiti, but a source close to the Haitian military claims that most firearms have been hidden by the population.
  • US soldiers are increasing patrols in the Haitian capital, while Pentagon officials plan to withdraw combat troops and replace them with military police.
  • The US Defence Department will reduce the number of marines in Haiti by 21,000, down from the original 15,000, to focus on quelling violence and disarming Haitian gunmen.
  • US officials, including Admiral Owens, claim that American troops are being received with cheers in rural areas and expanding their reach.
  • Attempts to disarm members of the ultra-right-wing FRAPH militias through a weapons buy-back program have been unsuccessful.
  • The random looting of warehouses and stores in the La Saline neighbourhood has been identified as a form of retribution against merchants who sold off land to the coup leaders.

Statistics:

  • Over 1,000 weapons have been seized by the US military in Haiti.
  • Estimates suggest that only a small fraction of the total number of arms in Haiti have been found.
  • 21,000 US troops are currently in Haiti, down from the original 15,000.
  • US troops will be reduced to focus on quelling violence and disarming Haitian gunmen.

Sources:

  • The Globe and Mail, "US officials say Haiti operation is working," by Graham Fraser.
  • Associated Press, Reuters, and Scripps Howard.