Latest news in Haiti? September 18th, 2026

Haiti continues to face deep security, humanitarian, and political challenges, highlighted by several major developments:

• Security Crisis and Gang Violence: Criminal armed groups still control approximately 85% to 90% of Port-au-Prince and continue expanding into neighboring areas. A violent assault in Kenscoff displaced over 2,600 people, left dozens dead, and saw numerous residents kidnapped.

  Human Rights Watch+ 1

• Multinational Mission and UN Action: The UN Security Council is addressing the mandate for the Gang Suppression Force (GSF)which evolved out of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission. The United States, Panama, and international allies have pushed for a mandate extension and additional resources, as the force works alongside the Haitian National Police (PNH) to conduct counter-gang operations and curb illegal arms flows.

  UA.NEWS

• Humanitarian and Displacement Pressures: Nearly 1.5 million people are internally displaced, roughly half of whom are children. Severe acute food insecurity affects over 5.7 million Haitians. At the same time, regional strain has intensified as forced deportations continue from neighboring nations and the United States following policy shifts on Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

  UA.NEWS+ 1

• Electoral Timeline and Governance: The Transitional Presidential Council (TPC) and electoral authorities are advancing candidate registration and constitutional reform efforts. However, persistent insecurity and violence along major transit corridors pose severe hurdles to organizing credible and safe national elections.

  Human Rights Watch+ 1