US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Monday a substantial commitment of $100 million to a United Nations-supported multinational security force, aiming to assist Haiti authorities in combating escalating gang violence.

Additionally, the US pledged an extra $33 million in humanitarian aid, amplifying its total proposed contribution to the force to $300 million.

As of Monday, only $11 million had been deposited into the dedicated UN trust fund, with no new contributions since March 3, according to Reuters.

This financial shortfall comes amid Haiti's declaration of a state of emergency in response to intensifying gang violence and the absence of a concrete plan to address the crisis.

Antony Blinken, currently on an unplanned visit to Kingston, expressed the gravity of the situation, deeming it a "critical moment" for Haiti.

The Secretary of State conveyed hope for progress while emphasizing the urgency of addressing the escalating violence.

Prime Minister Ariel Henry Absent Amid Unrest

Prime Minister Ariel Henry, entangled in calls for resignation or acceptance of a transitional council, was notably absent from the recent talks, AP news reports.

The embattled leader, currently unable to return to Haiti due to surging unrest and gang violence, remained in Puerto Rico.

The US territory's Department of State stated that Henry was making arrangements to return to Haiti when feasible.

Meanwhile, the meeting hosted in Jamaica by the regional trade bloc CARICOM aimed at establishing a transitional government proceeded without Henry.

Jimmy Cherizier, a prominent gang leader in Haiti known as Barbecue, voiced concerns about the international community's approach, warning that continued actions could further destabilize Haiti.

Cherizier urged Haitians to determine the country's leadership and work towards lifting it out of its current state of the Haiti crisis.

CARICOM acknowledged the ongoing challenges, stating that while progress had been made, stakeholders had not reached the necessary consensus.

Roots of Gang Dominance in Haiti

Examining the historical context, armed groups have played a significant role in Haiti's tumultuous history, BBC News noted.

During the Duvalier dictatorship, the paramilitary force Tonton Macoutes brutally suppressed opposition, fostering a culture of violence.

Even after the Duvalier era, gangs persisted, sometimes finding support from politicians.

The recent surge in gang violence gained momentum following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021.

His killing left a power vacuum, allowing gangs to expand their influence and seize territory.

The absence of elected officials due to delayed legislative elections exacerbated the institutional vacuum, leaving the country without clear leadership.

Ariel Henry assumed the role of Prime Minister after Moise's death, but questions linger about the legitimacy of his extended governance without fresh elections.

The political turmoil and security Haiti crisis have made it susceptible to the influence of criminal gangs, raising concerns both domestically and internationally.

The US funding pledge represents a concerted effort to address the pressing humanitarian and security challenges in Haiti.

However, the road ahead remains uncertain, requiring collaborative efforts to stabilize the nation and pave the way for sustainable governance.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Haiti unrest: Caribbean leaders call emergency meeting - From Al Jazeera English