ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - December 22, 2024

ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - December 22, 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

• ZeroFox Intelligence Brief - How Unrest in France and Europe Benefits its Adversaries
• Ceasefire Agreement Expected Between Israel and Palestinian Territories
• Vanuatu Earthquake Causes Destruction; New Zealand Sends Aid

ZeroFox Intelligence Brief - How Unrest in France and Europe Benefits its Adversaries

ZeroFox analyzed the circumstances around France’s Assemblee Nationale (the lower house of parliament) voting to remove Prime Minister (PM) Michel Barnier from office after just three months. Barnier’s tenure was not only the shortest in the history of the French Fifth Republic but also came after France experienced its longest-ever period without a government. A PM replacement has been named, but the political dynamics that created this paralysis and dysfunction are not expected to change for the foreseeable future. Therefore, further short-lived governments are likely leaving France poorly suited to address major domestic political issues.

Ceasefire Agreement Expected Between Israel and Palestinian Territories

Several senior Palestinian and Israeli officials reportedly confirmed that a ceasefire agreement will likely be reached in the Gaza Strip in the coming days. Some media outlets have indicated that the proposed truce includes a number of phases, the first of which would last from six to eight weeks and see approximately 30 hostages released in exchange for dozens of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. However, it should be noted that Hamas recently warned that a deal could only be reached if Israel “stops setting new conditions.”

Vanuatu Earthquake Causes Destruction; New Zealand Sends Aid

A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck Vanuatu causing at least 14 deaths and 200 injuries. Landslides have cut off certain areas from contact, but the focus of relief efforts is in the capital, where building collapses have pinned individuals inside destroyed structures. New Zealand is sending aid, including 34 Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) personnel, to assist in rescue efforts.