AMERICAS

Colombia (Security threat level – 4): On 2 January 2022, members of the National Liberation Army (ELN) and Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) dissident militant groups clashed in the rural municipalities of Arauquita, Fortul, Saravena and Tame in the department of Arauca, located on the northeastern border with Venezuela. According to local officials, fighting broke out after an agreement between the groups broke down. At least 23 people were killed in the clashes. President Iván Duque deployed military forces to the area to restore order following the clashes.

Haiti (Security threat level – 5): On 3 January 2022, Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s office confirmed that gunmen attempted to assassinate Henry during an event marking Haiti’s independence at a church in the northern city of Gonaives on 1 January. One person was killed and two others were injured in clashes between the attackers and security forces. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack; however, the prime minister’s office described the gunmen as “bandits and terrorists” and stated that arrest warrants had been issued.

ASIA

India (Security threat level – 3): On 4 January 2022, the deputy chief minister of Delhi announced the introduction of a weekend curfew in the capital New Delhi due to a surge in cases of the omicron variant of COVID-19. The curfew will require citizens to remain in their residence on Saturdays and Sundays unless they are performing essential activities. Additionally, government employees will be required to work from home, and private offices are expected to operate at 50% capacity. Buses and metro trains will continue to operate at full capacity, with all passengers required to wear masks onboard.

Philippines (Security threat level – 4): On 4 January 2022, authorities announced that COVID-19 restrictions will be extended to the Bulacan, Cavite and Rizal provinces during 5-15 January due to a surge in cases of the omicron variant. The three provinces, which surround the capital Manila, will be placed under the third highest alert. Under these restrictions, unvaccinated individuals are required to remain at home except to exercise or purchase essential goods. Nonessential businesses and restaurants in these areas will continue to operate at limited capacities.

MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA

Kuwait (Security threat level – 2): On 3 January 2022, authorities announced that all entering travelers must produce a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival, effective as of 4 January. Previous rules required travelers to obtain a PCR test within 48 hours prior to arrival. All entering travelers are still required to download the Shlonik app prior to boarding their flight and quarantine for 10 days upon arrival. If the traveler submits to a PCR test 72 hours after arrival and the test is negative, the quarantine period may end early. Additionally, all indoor social events and gatherings have been suspended during 9 January-28 February. The prohibition on gatherings comes as the country is experiencing a surge in coronavirus infections.