The United States has extended its ban on flights to Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, until September 8, citing the worsening gang violence that has gripped the Caribbean nation.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced the extension on Tuesday, prolonging a restriction initially imposed in November after gangs opened fire on three commercial planes. The ban, which was set to expire on Wednesday, underscores the deteriorating security situation in Haiti.

Dire Humanitarian Crisis

William O’Neill, the U.N. human rights expert on Haiti, described the situation as more dire than ever following his fourth visit to the country since his appointment two years ago. Speaking to reporters at the U.N., O’Neill highlighted the pervasive violence and despair affecting the Haitian population. He warned that the risk of Port-au-Prince falling entirely under gang control is “palpable,” despite ongoing efforts by Haiti’s national police and a U.N.-backed Kenya-led multinational police force.

“These violent criminal groups continue to extend and consolidate their hold even beyond the capital,” O’Neill stated. He detailed the atrocities committed by gangs, including killings, rapes, and the destruction of homes, schools, and hospitals. The gangs, which have grown significantly in power since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, are now estimated to control up to 85% of the capital.

Displacement and Desperation

The violence has displaced over one million people, leaving many to seek refuge in makeshift camps where hunger and sexual violence are rampant. O’Neill emphasized that for many Haitians, survival is a daily struggle. He urged Haitian authorities to address the impunity and corruption that enable gang activities and called for a significant increase in police resources. Haiti’s police force, numbering between 9,000 and 10,000 officers, is starkly under-resourced compared to the Dominican Republic, which has a similar population but a police force of approximately 50,000.

International Response

The U.N. expert also called for stronger international support, including logistical and financial backing for the Kenya-led multinational force. He stressed the need for better equipment, such as helicopters and night vision goggles, to enhance the capabilities of both Haitian and international forces. O’Neill reiterated the importance of addressing the flow of illegal arms into Haiti, which fuels gang violence.

The extended flight ban and the escalating crisis in Haiti highlight the urgent need for coordinated efforts to restore security and address the humanitarian challenges facing the nation. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, as the risk of further destabilization looms large.

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