Disruptions are likely to occur around the world at Egyptian Embassies due to pro-Palestinian protests starting on July 26. Multiple civil society groups have called for demonstrations to denounce Egypt’s alleged involvement in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Events are likely to be well attended and security forces may be used to disperse crowds. There may be potential risk to bystanders.
Cambodian and Thai soldiers have clashed near the Ta Muen Thom temple in Surin, Thailand, which Thai soldiers were attempting to secure and restrict access to. Thailand has accused Cambodia of placing landmines on the Thai side of the disputed border, and a landmine exploded near Chong An Ma on July 23. Thai authorities have closed all tourist sites and border crossings.
On July 22, Tropical Storm Francisco and a tropical depression intensified monsoon rains, causing severe flooding in Metro Manila, Zambales, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro. A state of emergency was declared in several cities with schools and offices closed across more than 20 provinces. Nearly 100 flights at Manila’s airport were cancelled, though the airport remains operational. Rainfall and flood-related disruption are expected to continue until at least July 26.
Menzies Aviation ground workers associated with the Metallurgical and Related Industries Union (SIMA) will strike nationwide from 12:00 AM July 25-11:59 PM July 28. This is the first of five strikes, which will be held during subsequent weekends through August. The strike is being organized to demand improved wages and working conditions, and is expected to cause delays and flight cancellations across the country.
As of July 21, 18 people have been killed and 9 remain missing due to flooding and landslides across South Korea. The southern and western provinces were hardest hit by the heavy rain, experiencing widespread power and water shortages. More than 14,000 people were evacuated. Although rain has eased, rescue workers continue to search for survivors and help victims.
On July 7, at least 31 people were killed and hundreds injured after police opened fire during nationwide demonstrations commemorating the 1990 ‘Saba Saba Peoples March.’ Other anti-government demonstrations throughout June have led to road blockades and violent clashes between police and protesters. Further protests are likely over the coming days amidst anger and unrest.
On July 6, the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) will hold demonstrations in commemoration of Ashura, a day of mourning. Though intended to be peaceful, past IMN activities have resulted in road blockades and physical altercations. Possible demonstration locations include: Fouad Lababidi Mosque, National Mosque on Constitution Avenue, Eagle Square and Unity Fountain on Shehu Shagari Way, Banex Plaza, and Berger Junction in Abuja.
On July 1, the U.S. Embassy in Jordan released a health alert due to reports of methanol poisoning linked to locally produced alcoholic beverages. So far there have been 56 reports of methanol poisonings that has left 47 undergoing treatment and nine dead.
On June 24, gunmen opened fire on a celebration of St. John the Baptist in the city of Irapuato. The state of Guanajuato experiences high rates of violent crime, largely due to an ongoing turf war between rival cartels. Additional federal and state security forces have been deployed throughout Guanajuato. Retaliatory attacks are possible in the coming weeks.
As of June 23, a fire has broken out in the Hotspur Press building. The ongoing fire has caused the evacuation of nearby apartment buildings and the temporary closure of Oxford Road station due to concerns of smoke and asbestos. Disruptions at the rail station are expected until 11:00 PM. A significant emergency presence is currently at the scene, and several nearby roads have been closed until further notice.