On September 11, 2025, the United States addressed the Organization of American States (OAS) to urge coordinated international action in response to the ongoing crisis in Haiti. The remarks were delivered on a day with significance for the United States and the region, marking both the anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks and the adoption of the Inter-American Democratic Charter.
The speaker reflected on past unity in times of crisis: "Twenty-four years ago, terrorists attacked our country in an attempt to destroy our way of life—and our neighbors across the Americas stood with us in grief and resolve." The statement continued by connecting this spirit of solidarity to current efforts: "Today, we draw on that same unity and determination as we confront Haiti’s crisis against terrorism and gang violence in the Western Hemisphere."
The United States joined other OAS member states in supporting a joint statement calling for urgent action from the United Nations Security Council. According to recent estimates, escalating gang violence has displaced over 1.3 million people in Haiti, half of them children. Communities remain under siege, with children at risk of forced recruitment or sexual violence.
Concerns were raised about criminal groups threatening national sovereignty and overwhelming Haitian security forces. Despite support from Multinational Security Support (MSS) missions led by Kenya and backed by hemispheric partners, officials warned that "the continued existence of the Haitian state remains more imperiled today than when the Security Council first envisioned a way to support."
The United States outlined its recent measures against gangs operating in Haiti. These actions include designating groups such as Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, offering rewards for information leading to key arrests—such as Jimmy Cherizier (Barbecue)—and enforcing sanctions and restrictions aimed at disrupting criminal operations.
"We commend Kenya for its courageous leadership of the MSS mission under harrowing circumstances," said U.S. officials. They also acknowledged contributions from The Bahamas, Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala, Jamaica, Canada, Panama's diplomatic efforts at the UN Security Council, and Guyana's regional advocacy.
A central recommendation was for "the Security Council to authorize what Haiti has said they need urgently: a new Gang Suppression Force or GSF—with a dedicated UN Support Office (UNSOH) to provide the logistical backbone and resources this mission needs to succeed." The force would be tasked with securing territory and infrastructure while working alongside Haitian security forces.
The statement called on OAS members to contribute further financial or material support through voluntary donations or via platforms like OAS SECURE-Haiti. Officials emphasized that burden-sharing among capable partners is essential.
While restoring order is seen as crucial for stability, U.S. representatives stressed that "restoring security alone will not bring lasting peace" without progress toward democratic governance driven by Haitians themselves.
On this anniversary of regional commitment to democracy through instruments like the Inter-American Democratic Charter, U.S. officials stated: "Democracy cannot flourish where criminals sow violence to rule through fear."
They concluded by urging immediate action from all relevant bodies: "Every OAS member state has spoken. We urge the United Nations Security Council to hear our united voices and act without delay...Haiti cannot wait—the time for urgent, coordinated action is now."