ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - March 6, 2024

ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - March 6, 2024

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

• Houthis Begin Requiring Permits to Enter Yemeni Waters
• Indigenous Activists Protest in Santarém Against Cargill
• Maldives Signs Defense Deal with China

Houthis Begin Requiring Permits to Enter Yemeni Waters

Yemen’s Houthi rebels declared that ships entering Yemeni territorial waters would be required to obtain a permit from the Houthi-controlled Maritime Affairs Authority. The affected area extends roughly halfway out into the 20-kilometer (12-mile) wide Bab al-Mandab Strait, through which cargo ships must pass to access the Suez Canal. It is unclear what the penalty would be for ships that do not obtain a permit; the Houthis have readily attacked cargo ships with drones and missiles since Israel invaded Gaza last year. The Houthis stated that authorities are prepared to assist shipping companies in obtaining permits as needed.

Indigenous Activists Protest in Santarém (Brazil) Against Cargill

A group of indigenous activists held a protest rally in the Santarém port, Brazil. The protesters denounced the company Cargill and an agricultural railroad that goes through the Amazon jungle, which they allege is causing environmental damage due to deforestation. The activists further allege that indigenous, Quilombola, and small farmers affected by the railway were not consulted.

Maldives Signs Defense Deal with China

Authorities in the Maldives announced the signing of a military assistance deal with China as the island nation accelerates a shift away from its neighbor and historical ally, India. About 89 Indian military personnel are currently stationed in the Maldives but are preparing to depart by May 10, having been ordered out by Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who was elected last September on an anti-India platform. Maldivian authorities did not announce what was contained in the new agreement with China but claimed it came at no expense to the Maldives and would foster bilateral relations.