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Worldview Security Update – June 25, 2020
25-Jun-20

AMERICAS

United States (Security threat level – 2): As of 25 June 2020, officials in the northeastern U.S. states of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut will require inbound travelers from nine other U.S. states — those with a positive COVID-19 test rate exceeding 10 per 100,000 inhabitants or an infection rate of 10% or more on a seven-day rolling average — to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. At present, all the states that meet the threshold, which include Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Washington, Utah and Texas, are located in the southern and western parts of the country. A total of 36,880 new COVID-19 cases were reported in the U.S. on 24 June, which is the record for new daily cases in the country. The states of Florida, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Texas also reported their highest numbers of daily cases, with Florida and Texas reporting more than 5,500 cases each. The latter two states are emerging as the new COVID-19 hotspots in the country, as state officials have annulled most of the stringent restrictions imposed to stem the spread of the virus.

ASIA

Thailand (Security threat level – 3): On 25 June 2020, the secretary general of Thailand’s National Security Council announced that the council will recommend that the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) extend the ongoing nationwide state of emergency through 31 July. Under the order, the government has the authority to limit public gatherings. Despite the extension, most businesses classified as "high risk" for transmitting COVID-19 are set to reopen on 1 July; businesses that reopen will be subject to limited restrictions and public health measures. For example, videogame arcades will not be allowed to sell food or drinks, staff and customers in spa facilities must wear face masks, and entertainment venues — such as bars and karaoke establishments — must close by 0000 local time (1700 UTC) each night.

EUROPE

United Kingdom (Security threat level – 3): On the night of 24 June 2020, violence broke out near Angell Town in the Brixton district of southwestern London when police officers attempted to break up a street party in the area. Individuals in the crowd attacked police officers and their vehicles. Additional police officers in riot gear deployed to the scene but were forced to retreat as the crowd threw projectiles at the officers. At least two partygoers and 22 police officers were injured, while several police vehicles were damaged during the violence. Authorities arrested at least four suspects.

MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA

Israel / United Arab Emirates (Security threat levels – 3 / 2): On 25 June 2020, Israeli officials extended the country’s coronavirus-related entry ban on foreign nationals until at least 1 August. Permanent residents remain exempt from the ban but are required to self-isolate and may be subject to a mandatory 14-day quarantine if they are unable to self-isolate.

In the United Arab Emirates, authorities on 24 June lifted the nationwide movement restrictions implemented to allow for the disinfection program. The movement restrictions, including a nightly curfew, were originally put in place on 5 April. Authorities stated that they will continue to disinfect and sanitize public buildings outside of normal business hours. Meanwhile, officials in Abu Dhabi relaxed restrictions on travel within the emirate and also now allow individuals to exit the emirate. However, officials maintain a ban on entering Abu Dhabi until further notice.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Bahamas (Security threat level – 2): On 25 June 2020, the U.K. Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) issued updated travel advice for the Bahamas, which reads in part as follows: 

“On 22 June the state of public emergency was extended until 31July 2020. A night curfew from 10pm to 5am is in place and there are restrictions on movement and shopping. The situation and rules vary across the islands depending on the spread of the virus.

“Social distancing and wearing facemasks is obligatory for everyone leaving their own property.” 

Cabo Verde (Security threat level – 2): On 24 June 2020, the U.S. Embassy in Praia issued a Health Alert, which reads in part as follows: 

“The Government of Cabo Verde announced on June 23 that international commercial flights will not resume until at least August. The government previously announced that COVID-19 testing and mandatory quarantine measures will not be required for individuals traveling via inter-island or international flights.

“Inter-island maritime transportation has resumed and inter-island flights are scheduled to resume for all islands on June 30. Increased travel between islands may lead to infections in municipalities that had previously been spared. The government has established health cordons in some places to help isolate cases when that is feasible.” 

Singapore (Security threat level – 1): On 25 June 2020, the U.K. Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) issued updated travel advice regarding mandatory quarantine upon arrival, which reads in part as follows:

“Everyone granted permission to enter Singapore will be issued with a 14-day Stay at Home Notice (SHN) which must be served at a government designated hotel and costs ,000 (unless you have spent 14 days or more before arrival in Australia, Brunei, Mainland China, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan or Vietnam. If you meet this criteria, you will be permitted to carry out 14 days quarantine at your place of residence in Singapore, if you have one). In addition to quarantine fees, all arrivals must pay for a Covid-19 test which will be conducted before the 14 day quarantine period ends. Whilst you are serving your 14 days quarantine you will not be allowed to leave your room. Smoking may not be allowed in the facilities. The 14 day period cannot be reduced, even if you wish to leave Singapore. Failure to comply carries a fine and a jail term of up to six months. More details can be found on the Singapore government website.

“See information on questions about facilities for returnees on the Singapore Government website .

“Permanent Residents and approved work pass holders with permission to enter Singapore must submit an online health declaration in advance of their arrival into Singapore. Otherwise it will need to be completed upon entry and may result in delays to immigration clearance.”