ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - July 19, 2024

ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - July 19, 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

• Colleges Closed Indefinitely, Some Internet Suspended As Protests Grow Violent in Bangladesh
• Iraqi Drones Target U.S. Troops in Possible Resumption of Attacks
• Police Ban Protests Ahead of More Anti-Government Gatherings in Nairobi, Kenya

Colleges Closed Indefinitely, Some Internet Suspended As Protests Grow Violent in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has announced the indefinite closure of all public colleges and universities as nationwide protests against the government job quota system grew increasingly violent. To date, at least 22 people have died in clashes with police and between rival factions. On July 18, protesters set fire to the main office of the state TV broadcaster, with reports indicating numerous employees remain trapped inside. Major cities including Dhaka and Chittagong have seen blockages of major roads and railways, with police deploying teargas to disperse protesters. Internet suspensions have been reported in some areas as authorities seek to disrupt protest organizers. Unrest will likely continue and possibly accelerate in the coming days and weeks. On August 7, Bangladesh’s supreme court will hear arguments on a government appeal that would do away with the quota system.

Iraqi Drones Target U.S. Troops in Possible Resumption of Attacks

Base defenses have shot down two armed drones that targeted Ain al-Asad airbase in central Iraq, where U.S. forces are housed. It is the second attack on U.S. forces in Iraq since Iran-backed militias declared a ceasefire in February after three American troops were killed in a drone strike in Jordan. No group has claimed responsibility for the latest incident, though shortly afterward the militia Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya (HAAA) declared an end to the ceasefire and the resumption of attacks on American forces.

Police Ban Protests Ahead of More Anti-Government Gatherings in Nairobi, Kenya

On July 18, 2024, police announced a ban on protests in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, ahead of planned anti-government protests. Kenya has seen weeks of violent protests, first against unpopular tax rises, but after they were withdrawn, they have broadened out, including demands for President William Ruto to resign. The ban on protests could lead to a violent police response if protests do occur. There have already been dozens of protest fatalities. Expect continued protests in major urban areas, which could turn violent, with Ruto believing he has already made adequate concessions to protesters.