News & Reports

A substantial pro-Palestine protest, with over 2,000 reported participants, is currently (20:30 on January 18, local time) taking place at Plaza Cibeles in central Madrid. Local media reports that heightened security measures and severe transport interruptions are happening in the vicinity.   Advice: As a preventive measure, avoid the demonstration site. Plan and prepare routes to bypass the area, and allocate extra time if traveling nearby. Adhere to all official guidelines. Refrain from engaging in related geo-political discussions. Immediately leave at the first sign of escalation.  

South Korean media outlets report that supporters of impeached President Yoon are clashing with police forces outside the Western District Court in Seoul. According to reports, several police officers and protestors have been hospitalized, and roadblocks have been set up nearby to contain the situation.   Advice: Avoid the area and plan alternative routes to bypass it to minimize risks and disruptions. Closely follow all orders by local authorities. Stay away from large crowds and gatherings throughout Seoul.  

Severe weather is expected across northern Argentina until January 22, bringing heavy rainfall and potential risks, including power outages, falling tree branches, flooding, and electrical discharges. Low-lying areas may experience flooding, while hilly regions could face landslides. Urban flooding may disrupt transportation, utilities, and business operations. Travel interruptions are likely on roads, railways, and airports.   Advice: Check travel reservations and road conditions before leaving. Expect potential delays and supply chain disruptions in flood-affected areas. Avoid flooded roads and keep battery-powered devices charged for possible power outages. Stay updated through local media.  

A major pro-Palestine protest is scheduled for 13:00 on January 20 at San Francisco's Civic Center Plaza. Several thousand participants are expected to attend. Severe local transport disruptions and bolstered security measures are likely throughout the area.   Advice: As a preventive measure, avoid the demonstration site. Plan and prepare routes to bypass the area, and allocate extra time if traveling nearby. Adhere to all official guidelines. Refrain from engaging in related geo-political discussions. Immediately leave at the first sign of escalation.  

A major pro-Palestine protest is scheduled for 13:00 on January 20 at Washington Square Park, New York City, NY. Several thousand participants are expected to attend. Severe local transport disruptions and bolstered security measures are likely throughout the area.   Advice: As a preventive measure, avoid the demonstration site. Plan and prepare routes to bypass the area, and allocate extra time if traveling nearby. Adhere to all official guidelines. Refrain from engaging in related geo-political discussions. Immediately leave at the first sign of escalation.  

Political activists plan to protest outside the U.S. Embassy in Brussels from 18:30 on January 20. Several hundred participants are expected to attend. Local transport disruptions and bolstered security measures are likely nearby.   Advice: As a preventive measure, avoid the demonstration site. Plan and prepare routes to bypass the area, and allocate extra time if traveling nearby. Adhere to all official guidelines. Immediately leave at the first sign of escalation.  

Severe weather is expected across central and southern Italy until January 21, bringing heavy rainfall and potential risks, including power outages, falling tree branches, flooding, and electrical discharges. Low-lying areas may experience flooding, while hilly regions could face landslides. Urban flooding may disrupt transportation, utilities, and business operations. Travel interruptions are likely on roads, railways, and airports.   Advice: Check travel reservations and road conditions before leaving. Expect potential delays and supply chain disruptions in flood-affected areas. Avoid flooded roads and keep battery-powered devices charged for possible power outages. Stay updated through local media.  

The Inspector General of the South Sudan National Police Service has announced a nationwide curfew from 6 pm until 6 am in response to protests and looting targeting Sudanese traders in Juba. Clashes in Sudan's Gezira State have triggered this unrest. While pharmacies and small markets will remain open 24/7 to provide essential services, larger markets and warehouses must close by 6 pm to help prevent looting. The police have adopted a zero tolerance policy for criminal activities, and the curfew will remain in effect until further notice.   Advice: Stay indoors during the curfew, only going out for emergencies or with authorization. Stock up on essentials and complete errands early. Carry identification if you must leave, and stay updated through official sources.  

Cholera is spreading in South Sudan, with a total of 21,389 confirmed cases and 390 deaths as of January 17. Children under the age of 14 are the most affected, while fatality rates are highest among the elderly and young children. Seven states are impacted, notably Rubkona, which has nearly half of the cases. Vaccination efforts are ongoing, but poor sanitation, flooding, and the displacement of over 120,000 people from Sudan are worsening the situation.   Advice: Make sure to get vaccinated against cholera. Only drink boiled or treated water, and if possible, use water purification tablets. After coming into contact with floodwaters, be sure to wash your hands with soap. If you experience diarrhea, vomiting, or dehydration, seek medical attention immediately. For more information, please check the attached link.  

Kenya's Ministry of Health has confirmed two new cases of Mpox, increasing the total number of infections to 33 since the outbreak began. Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni announced on Friday, January 17, that the latest cases were reported in Kericho and Taita Taveta counties. Mpox has now been detected in 12 counties. The Ministry is screening travelers, testing suspected cases, and tracing contacts. Advice: Wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth when you cough, and avoid close contact with sick individuals. Stay away from crowded places and use precautions in areas with monkeypox. If you have symptoms within two weeks of exposure, especially after new sexual partners, seek medical help. Vaccines are advised for at-risk individuals.