ASIA

India (Security threat level – 3): At approximately 1700 local time (1130 UTC) on 13 January 2022, at least 12 cars of the Guwahati-Bikaner Express train derailed near the New Domohani railway station in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal state, located approximately 40 km (25 mi) southeast of Siliguri. The crash resulted in the deaths of at least five people. Rescue operations are ongoing. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.

MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA

Iraq (Security threat level – 5): On 12 January 2022, authorities stated that all inbound international travelers will be required to produce a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours before travel and proof of full immunization against COVID-19 upon arrival to be allowed entry. Officials did not provide an effective date for the new rules; prospective travelers should arrive prepared with both documents. In related developments, proof of vaccination will be required to enter government facilities and working hours at these facilities have been reduced by half.

Lebanon (Security threat level – 4): At approximately 0500 local time (0300 UTC) on 13 January 2022, public transportation workers initiated a 12-hour general strike to protest the removal of fuel subsidies and the subsequent increase in fuel prices. Protesters blocked roads nationwide with vehicles and makeshift barriers, resulting in school and business closures, as well as general transportation disruptions. However, there have been no reports of protest-related violence.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Austria (Security threat level – 2): On 12 January 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Vienna issued a Demonstration Alert regarding upcoming protests, which reads in part as follows: “Locations: Announced gathering points include, but are not limited to, Vienna’s 1st District, including:

– Mariahilferstrasse / Human Rights Square

– Heldenplatz (in front of the Hofburg Palace)

– Rathaus

— Siegmund Freud Park (next to Votivkirche)

“Events:

“– Thursday, January 13, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. at Mariahilferstrasse / Human Rights Square: Organizers are calling for a demonstration in support of human rights. A large number of protestors are expected, and counter-protests are possible.

“— Saturday, January 15, noon to 6 p.m., at Heldenplatz (in front of the Imperial Hofburg Palace):  Up to 100,000 protestors and 1,000 police officers are expected at a major demonstration against COVID-19 measures including mandatory vaccinations. Vienna ordinances now prohibit demonstrations in business areas during opening hours, however some groups have called for spontaneous gatherings in defiance of these ordinances. Expect a heavy police presence and major disruptions to traffic and public transportation along the Ring Road and downtown area. Counter-protests are possible.

“Other planned minor demonstrations for various causes:

– Friday, January 14 to Saturday, January 15 at midnight at the Rathaus.

– Saturday, June 15, noon to 6 p.m. at Siegmund Freud Park (next to Votivkirche).

“Most demonstrations in Vienna are peaceful, orderly, and well-policed. However, all demonstrations and protests should be avoided as they are often unpredictable in nature. In addition to these registered demonstrations, flash protests are always possible.”