US condemns deadly gang attacks in Haiti, urges support for security mission

UNITED NATIONS (CMC) — The United States (US) has condemned deadly gang attacks against the Kenscoff community in Haiti and called for the rapid deployment of the United Nations-authorised Gang Suppression Force (GSF). Addressing the United Nations (UN) Security Council, US Alternative Representative for Special Political Affairs, Ambassador Jennifer Locetta, described the attacks as “savage” and extended condolences to the victims and their families. She said the violence was another reminder of the severity of Haiti’s security crisis, noting that armed gangs have killed civilians, terrorised communities and destroyed homes and families for months.

Locetta also accused gang coalitions of seeking to prevent Haitians from exercising their right to elect a representative government. “Terrorists cannot take democracy hostage for their own selfish and violent ends,” she said, adding that civilians must be protected and those responsible for the violence held accountable. The US diplomat said Washington remained committed to supporting Haitian-led efforts to combat gang violence, restore state authority and create conditions under which Haitians can choose their leaders.

She said the latest attack demonstrated the importance of the mandate given to the GSF, declaring that the mission must take decisive action to stop armed gangs and end the bloodshed. Locetta urged UN member states to help troop- and police-contributing countries deploy personnel as quickly as possible and to provide financial support through the UN Trust Fund for the mission. “The GSF needs equipment, resources and political will to do and finish this job,” she said.

The United States is also calling on the Security Council to renew the force’s mandate next month. Locetta said Washington would work with Panama, its co-penholder on Haiti, on the renewal. However, she acknowledged that security operations alone would not bring lasting stability to the French-speaking Caribbean Community country.

Locetta called for international investment in infrastructure and job creation, saying economic opportunities and accountable governance were necessary to provide young Haitians with alternatives to gang activity. “The United States stands with Haiti and will continue to work with Haitians and international partners to end this crisis and restore Haiti’s stability,” she said.