HAMILTON, Canada

The UN Security Council unanimously adopted a draft resolution Friday renewing the sanctions regime on Haiti, including targeted asset freezes, travel bans, and arms embargo measures, for another year.

The resolution, jointly submitted by Panama and the US, was supported by all 15 members of the council.

Haiti has been struggling with gang violence and political instability for years. The country saw an escalation of violence following the assassination of President Jovenel Moise nearly five years ago.

Rival armed groups took control of Port-au-Prince earlier this year, forcing Prime Minister Ariel Henry to resign. Armed gangs are said to control an estimated 80% of the capital.

According to the UN, more than 1,379 people were killed or injured in Haiti, and 428 were kidnapped from April to June.

Around 5.5 million people need immediate humanitarian assistance amid a complex humanitarian crisis exacerbated by civil unrest, disease, economic instability, and insecurity.

Speaking after the vote, US deputy envoy to the UN, Jennifer Locetta, told the council: "These sanctions are key components of a broader international effort to promote peace and stability in Haiti—and within the region."

"Just a few weeks ago, this council passed a resolution for a Gang Suppression Force and a UN Support Office. These measures will restore security in Haiti and bring gangs to their knees," she added.