US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres discussed security challenges in Haiti, Somalia, and Yemen during a recent phone call. They highlighted the need for a transition of the MSS mission in Haiti to a UN operation to combat gang violence, along with funding for the AUSSOM in Somalia and the release of UN personnel detained by Houthis in Yemen.
On Friday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken engaged in a conversation with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres regarding pressing security issues in Haiti and Somalia, alongside the situation of detainees held by the Houthis in Yemen. During the call, Blinken acknowledged the achievements made by the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti, underscoring the importance of the Haitian government’s request to transition this mission into a United Nations peacekeeping operation, which would offer sustainable security for its populace. Haiti continues to face significant challenges, notably a surge in gang violence exacerbated by the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise. Further, the discussions encompassed potential funding avenues for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), and initiatives aimed at securing the release of UN, diplomatic, and NGO personnel detained by the Houthis in Yemen. Somalia remains plagued by prolonged terrorist activities linked to al-Shabaab, an extremist group affiliated with al-Qaeda. In expressing gratitude towards Guterres, Blinken emphasized the need for ongoing collaborative efforts to tackle these complex issues. Recently, instances of UN personnel arrests in Yemen have highlighted the urgency of assuring their safety, as six UN human rights staff members and several colleagues were taken into custody, prompting concern from the international community.
The security situation in Haiti has been dire, particularly following the assassination of its President, which led to an increase in gang-related violence. The Multinational Security Support mission was established to aid in stabilizing the country. Meanwhile, Somalia continues to combat terrorism, predominantly from al-Shabaab, creating challenges for regional stability and international outreach efforts. Additionally, the detention of personnel by the Houthis in Yemen presents a critical humanitarian and diplomatic concern, necessitating immediate action from global leaders and organizations.
The discussions between Secretary Blinken and Secretary-General Guterres reaffirm the international community’s commitment to addressing critical security challenges in Haiti, Somalia, and Yemen. The proposed transition of the MSS mission to a UN peacekeeping operation represents a significant step towards sustainable security in Haiti. Furthermore, addressing the plight of detainees in Yemen and supporting stabilization initiatives in Somalia underscores the urgent need for continued collaborative efforts among global leaders to promote peace and security.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
