Ecuador's Escalating Gang Violence Sparks Internal Armed Conflict

Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa declared the country "at war" with drug gangs holding over 130 prison guards and staff hostage, leading to a 60-day state of emergency. The violence, including explosions and a TV station takeover, prompted the president to name 22 gangs as terrorist organizations. The government plans to build new high-security prisons for gang leaders, and efforts are underway to recover the hostages. The country will begin deporting foreign prisoners, especially Colombians, to reduce prison populations. The ongoing violence has led to arrests and closures of businesses and schools, with streets deserted and a sense of unease reminiscent of pandemic lockdowns.