ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - December 24, 2023

ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - December 24, 2023

ZeroFox physical security experts collect, curate, and analyze information derived from open and proprietary sources for comprehensive context of the circumstances surrounding global events. Here is today’s daily roundup of major developments.

Brief Highlights

• United States Announces Task Force to Protect Against Houthi Attacks
• South Korea, U.S., and Japan Launch Missile Warning Data System as North Korean Missile Launches Increase in Sophistication
• China Pressures Taiwan With Trade Accusations and Warplanes Ahead of Election in January 2024

United States Announces Task Force to Protect Against Houthi Attacks

On December 19, 2023, US defense secretary Lloyd Austin announced the formation of a 10-nation coalition to safeguard international shipping in the Red Sea against Houthi attacks. The initiative, known as Operation Prosperity Guardian, will include participation from the US, UK, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Norway, Bahrain, Canada, and Seychelles. Few details are forthcoming but internal discussions have reportedly centered on the need for increased patrols in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, where Yemeni Houthi rebels have stepped up attacks on cargo vessels in recent weeks. Naval forces belonging to Prosperity Guardian will make greater efforts to shoot down Houthi missiles and drones and will be positioned to cover the greatest area possible but are unlikely to act as direct escorts for cargo vessels given the volume of traffic that passes through the strait. The United States has not ruled out direct strikes on the Houthis but will likely do so only as an option of last resort to avoid escalation.

South Korea, U.S., and Japan Launch Missile Warning Data System as North Korean Missile Launches Increase in Sophistication

On December 19, 2023, South Korea, the United States, and Japan launched a real-time missile warning system to share North Korean missile data. Through the new system, the three sides will share round-the-clock data on a missile's presumed launch point, flight trajectory, and expected point of impact. Additionally, the three countries have also approved the multiyear exercise plan, starting next year, noting that they plan to regularize military drills and stage them in a more systematic and efficient manner.

China Pressures Taiwan With Trade Accusations and Warplanes Ahead of Election in January 2024

On December 15, 2023, China pressured Taiwan with a trade barrier investigation and warplanes in the Taiwan Strait. The moves come ahead of general elections on January 13, 2024. China’s Commerce Ministry filed disputes against Taiwan for reportedly violating World Trade Organization (WTO) rules and violating a trade deal China signed in 2010 with Taiwan. China in October already extended its trade barrier investigation to January 12, 2024, the day before the elections. Taiwan accused China of attempting to interfere with the election. This time, the dispute centers around Taiwan's restrictions on the import of more than 2,000 products from China. While all Taiwanese political parties are weary of Chinese efforts to take the island by force, some opposition parties advocate for better economic relationships with China because mainland China is a key source of revenue, particularly for Taiwan's valuable tech companies. China is likely to threaten the economic relationship to aid political candidates who call for improved ties with China.