El Salvadorian military forces have been deployed to Haiti to rescue several hostages after the abduction of El Salvador nationals. President Nayib Bukele confirmed the military operation on Wednesday, demanding the immediate release of the individuals held by local gangs.
In a statement, Bukele emphasized the objective of the operation: “We have a single objective: to bring our four compatriots back home alive, without any harm.” He clarified that the hostages, identified as aviation technicians, were in Haiti as part of an international mission and are not involved in combat.
Bukele’s announcement came after reports that the technicians were kidnapped while returning from a market where they had purchased food. He condemned the manner of their kidnapping, describing it as “cowardly” and warned the gangs that there would be consequences if the hostages were not returned safely.
The president affirmed that the El Salvadoran contingent comprised only pilots and technical personnel trained for medical evacuations, underscoring that they are not in Haiti to engage in warfare.
Gang violence in Haiti has reached alarming levels, with armed groups reportedly controlling between 70% and 90% of Port-au-Prince and expanding their influence into surrounding rural areas. This situation has contributed to a significant humanitarian crisis in the country.
In response to ongoing violence, the United Nations Security Council recently extended the mandate for the Gang Suppression Force (GSF) in Haiti until March 31, 2027. The GSF, created in September 2025, was established to address the threats posed by criminal organizations. Currently, the force consists of approximately 1,500 troops, with plans to increase that number to around 4,000.
No further details on the timeline or specific actions taken by El Salvadorian forces in Haiti have been released as the situation develops.
