UN security council extends Haiti sanctions for another year

The UN Security Council on Friday unanimously adopted a resolution renewing Haiti’s sanctions regime for another year. The measures include targeted asset freezes, travel bans, and an arms embargo.

The draft resolution, jointly submitted by Panama and the United States, received support from all 15 Council members.

Haiti has faced years of gang violence and political instability, which escalated following the assassination of President Jovenel Moise. Earlier this year, rival armed groups seized control of Port-au-Prince, forcing Prime Minister Ariel Henry to resign. Armed gangs are reported to control around 80% of the capital.

According to the UN, from April to June alone, more than 1,379 people were killed or injured, and 428 were kidnapped. Approximately 5.5 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance amid a complex crisis driven by civil unrest, disease, economic instability, and insecurity.

Speaking after the vote, U.S. Deputy UN Envoy Jennifer Locetta said the sanctions are “key components of a broader international effort to promote peace and stability in Haiti and the region.” She added that measures such as the recently established Gang Suppression Force and UN Support Office are intended to restore security in the country and weaken gang influence.

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