U.S. Advocates for Transition of Kenyan-Led Force in Haiti to U.N. Peacekeeping Mission

The U.S. is intensifying efforts to transition the Kenyan-led force in Haiti into a U.N. peacekeeping mission due to escalating gang violence. Amidst political turmoil, the gangs now control most of Port-au-Prince, prompting the need for collective international action. Discussions at the U.N. Security Council continue as the situation unfolds, underlining the urgency of stabilizing Haiti.

The United States is actively promoting the transition of the Kenyan-led multinational force in Haiti into a United Nations peacekeeping mission, a response catalyzed by heightened gang violence that has disrupted air travel to Port-au-Prince. The escalation of violence, particularly following the dismissal of Haiti’s interim prime minister amid political tensions, has prompted urgent discussions within the U.N. Security Council, where the U.S. is seeking unanimous support for its draft resolution to formalize the transformation.

The current situation in Haiti is dire, exacerbated by the increasing dominance of gangs, which are reported to control approximately 85% of the capital. This unrest has escalated following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021. The Kenyans, who are part of the multinational force, represent a continuation of international military involvement in Haiti, which has a long and complex history of foreign interventions. Past U.N. missions in Haiti have faced significant criticism, particularly regarding issues of human rights violations and public health crises, such as the cholera outbreak linked to U.N. peacekeepers.

In summary, the U.S. initiative to convert the Kenya-led force in Haiti into a U.N. peacekeeping operation highlights the urgent need for enhanced support in stabilizing Haiti amidst significant gang violence and internal strife. The situation remains fluid as international diplomatic efforts unfold, especially considering the mixed sentiments among Haitians regarding foreign military presence. The outcome of discussions within the U.N. Security Council will likely shape future international involvement in Haiti.

Original Source: www.military.com