A military unit from El Salvador has arrived in Haiti to support a United Nations-backed initiative aimed at combating the rampant gang violence that claimed thousands of lives last year and currently dominates much of the capital, Port-au-Prince.

On Tuesday, a contingent of 70 Salvadoran soldiers landed in Haiti, where they are expected to provide essential air support for the mission led by Kenyan police. Officials from Kenya have emphasized that this air support will be crucial for medical evacuations in areas affected by the ongoing unrest.

El Salvador’s addition to the international effort follows a recent increase in personnel from Kenya, which sent more officers last month, bringing the total to over 600 security forces deployed to Haiti. This growing coalition also includes police, military, and officials from nations such as Jamaica and Guatemala.

The situation in Port-au-Prince remains dire, with gang-related violence spiraling out of control. Notably, in recent days, gunmen have killed at least 40 individuals in a residential neighborhood known for its affluence.

Concerns have been raised by the United States and other nations regarding the lack of adequate funding and personnel for the Kenya-led mission, as efforts are underway to reformulate it into a United Nations peacekeeping operation.

According to United Nations reports, over 5,600 individuals lost their lives due to gang violence in Haiti last year, and more than 2,200 were injured. This escalation in violence has rendered over one million people homeless in recent years, further stressing the need for international support and intervention.