US and UN Address Security Challenges in Haiti, Somalia, and Yemen

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres discussed pressing security concerns in Haiti, Somalia, and Yemen. They highlighted the need for a transition to a UN peacekeeping operation in Haiti, addressed funding for Somalia’s stabilization mission, and called for the release of UN personnel held by the Houthis in Yemen, underlining a collaborative approach to international security challenges.

During a recent phone call, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addressed crucial security challenges in Haiti, Somalia, and Yemen. Blinken commended the progress achieved by the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti and emphasized the importance of transitioning this mission into a UN peacekeeping operation to ensure lasting security for the Haitian populace, who have been severely affected by escalating gang violence. In addition to the situation in Haiti, the leaders discussed funding possibilities for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), focusing on efforts to combat the persistent threat from terrorist organizations, particularly al-Shabaab. Furthermore, attention was given to the plight of UN personnel and other NGO staff detained by the Houthi authorities in Yemen, underlining the urgent need for their release. Blinken expressed his appreciation for Guterres’ ongoing leadership and the collaborative efforts in tackling these international challenges.

The discussions between U.S. and UN officials come in light of ongoing crises affecting several nations. Haiti has faced escalating gang violence, particularly following the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021, prompting the need for enhanced security measures. Meanwhile, Somalia has suffered from a protracted struggle against terrorist groups like al-Shabaab, impacting regional stability. Additionally, Yemen’s conflict has resulted in numerous UN and NGO personnel being detained by Houthi forces, creating humanitarian and diplomatic challenges that require immediate attention.

The conversation between Secretary Blinken and Secretary-General Guterres underscores the international community’s commitment to addressing pressing security issues in Haiti, Somalia, and Yemen. By considering the transition of the MSS to a UN peacekeeping operation in Haiti and discussing essential funding for Somalia, as well as advocating for the release of detained personnel in Yemen, both leaders are striving for collaborative solutions to enhance regional stability and security.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr