In a race against time, the United Nations is reviving humanitarian air operations in Haiti this Wednesday after a U.S.-imposed flight ban left aid efforts grounded. The move comes as over 20,000 people have fled violence in Port-au-Prince in just four days – the worst displacement surge since 2022. 💔
Why This Matters Now
Haiti's capital remains trapped in chaos: Armed groups control 80% of the city, with two commercial planes hit by gunfire last month prompting the FAA's 30-day flight suspension. The UN's newly approved aircraft – a small plane and helicopter – will now deliver lifesaving supplies and staff. 🚁
Humanitarian Lifelines
🔹 WFP plans hot meals for 16K displaced people this week
🔹 135K+ residents to receive food rations in Port-au-Prince by month's end
🔹 70% of school meals use locally sourced ingredients, supporting Haitian farmers 🌾
'This isn’t just about food,' UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters. 'Mobile clinics, trauma counseling, and family reunification efforts are equally crucial – but we need safe access.' 🩺💬
The Bigger Picture
With temperatures rising and hurricane season approaching, aid groups warn of a 'perfect storm' for disease outbreaks. Over 430K children currently rely on school meal programs – a critical safety net at risk if violence spreads beyond urban areas. ⚠️
As one IOM worker put it: 'We’re seeing families displaced three or four times – their resilience is incredible, but resources are stretched thin.' 💪 The international community watches closely as Haiti's crisis enters a dangerous new phase.
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UN aims to resume humanitarian flights in Haiti on Wednesday
cgtn.com