### Spirit Airlines Plane Hit by Gunfire in Haiti Amid Political Turmoil

A Spirit Airlines flight heading to Haiti was struck by gunfire over Port-au-Prince on Monday, prompting a diversion of the aircraft to Santiago in the Dominican Republic, and causing minor injuries to a crew member. This alarming incident has led to a temporary halt of airport operations in Port-au-Prince and has disrupted flights to and from Haiti by multiple airlines.

Spirit Airlines reported that its flight 951, originating from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, exhibited damage consistent with gunfire upon inspection. One flight attendant sustained minor injuries and was treated by medical personnel. No other passengers or crew were harmed. As a result, Spirit Airlines has suspended services to both Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haitien, and the aircraft has been withdrawn from service.

Following the incident, Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince ceased operations. Haitian carrier Sunrise Airways, along with U.S.-based JetBlue and American Airlines, have also temporarily halted their flights to Haiti, with cancellations expected to last at least until Thursday.

Haiti has been facing intense gang-related activities and political instability over the past year. Recently, a United Nations helicopter came under fire in the region, and an attack on U.S. embassy vehicles in October forced the evacuation of 20 staff members.

The latest episode of violence coincides with significant political developments. The Transitional Presidential Council of Haiti recently voted to replace Prime Minister Garry Conille, leading to the swearing-in of businessman Alix Didier Fils-Aimé as the new prime minister on Monday. Conille’s tenure was marked by contentious decisions and alleged overreach of presidential duties. While Conille has yet to make a public statement regarding his removal, council member Fritz Jean cited these issues as reasons for the decision.

This political shift follows the resignation of Conille's predecessor, Ariel Henry, earlier this year, who left office amid escalating gang violence. The ongoing turmoil continues to affect both the domestic and international community, heightening the uncertainty in the Caribbean nation.