US Designates Haitian Gangs Viv Ansanm, Gran Grif as Terrorist Organizations

The United States has officially designated two major Haitian gang coalitions, Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif, as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists, citing their leading roles in violence and instability in Haiti. These gangs, which control vast territories including 85% of the capital Port-au-Prince and the key Artibonite region, have been linked to attacks on civilians, security forces, and infrastructure, and aim to overthrow the Haitian government. The designations carry significant legal consequences for anyone providing material support, potentially including criminal charges and immigration penalties for U.S. citizens and residents. While the U.S. government argues this move aims to disrupt gang operations and restore order, humanitarian groups warn it could further endanger aid delivery, as nonprofits are often forced to negotiate with gangs to access communities. The new sanctions come as Haiti faces record hunger, with over half the population expected to experience severe food insecurity and thousands at risk of starvation. Critics caution that the designations may complicate humanitarian and business operations in Haiti, potentially worsening the country's already dire crisis.