2026-02-06

Security conditions show relative stability in the last 24 hours with no major gang attacks or incidents reported. This extends the calm since the January 31 US Embassy alert despite Port-au-Prince remaining approximately 90 percent under gang control. PNH conducted a January 17 drone strike targeting Jimmy Barbecue Cherizier's residence with police spokesperson Frantz Lerebours confirming the operation demolished his house and reduced chances of his faction re-establishing presence. Police express hope of regaining control of the capital in the near future through intensive operations since late December. The GSF deployment stands at approximately 950 to 1000 personnel against an authorized strength of 5550 with UNSOH operational deadline of April 1. The UN envoy stated full GSF deployment should occur by summer at the latest by autumn. Eighteen nations have committed security personnel for the force. The March through September 2025 drone operation toll reached 547 deaths including 527 suspected gang members and 20 civilians including 11 children. UN assessment determined these operations were likely unlawful under international human rights law. February 06, 2026 The Artibonite region experienced a 210 percent increase in intentional homicides between January and August 2025 with 1303 victims compared to 419 in the same period 2024. This indicates gang expansion beyond Port-au-Prince into previously stable agricultural zones. The Atlantic Council warned that the February 7 transition creates a security coordination vulnerability. Since President Moise's assassination in July 2021 Haiti has found itself mired in turmoil with largely nonfunctional government effectively paralyzed economy and collapsing basic services. The risk of gangs exploiting the political vacuum is elevated over the next 72 hours. The absence of security incidents in the last 24 hours may reflect gang leadership calculations regarding transition timing rather than improved PNH control. The GSF deployment timeline and UNSOH operational deadline create pressure for visible security gains during the transition period. However the force remains significantly under strength and command structures remain unclear.