Wuhan virus and impeachment continue to flood the interwebs.
Wuhan Coronovirus -
The new coronavirus has been declared a global emergency by the World Health Organization, as the outbreak continues to spread outside China.
Overnight the US State Department issued a Level 4 (Do Not Travel) advisory for the entirety of mainland China. Currently 22 countries have confirmed cases of people infected by the Wuhan virus.
At the end of Thursday (local), China announced 9810 confirmed infections, (15,238 suspected) and 213 deaths (2.2%). Again, many continue to question if China is low-balling the numbers.
Israel-
More rockets and mortars were fired into southern Israel from Gaza over night. In response Israel bombed a number of Hamas facilities. So far both sides have been relatively restrained in their action/reaction following the release of the peace plan. Again, Israel states it holds Hamas totally responsible for any attacks launched by any Gaza based group. Additional ground gun/tank fire continuing into today as it is also the standard Friday “return” protests.
With 31 days until the 3rd national elections and with the peace plan on the table, it will be interesting to see just what Hamas, PIJ (et al) and Hezbollah do to influence both.
Also today, Israel conducted another test launch of its Jericho 3 missile. This new missile can easily strike Tehran (1600 Km) with a potential max range of 4000 Km.
Iran/Persian Gulf -
France has announced the start of a European naval mission in the Strait of Hormuz to guarantee the freedom of navigation throughout the Persian Gulf, and to promote deescalation with Iran.
N Korea -
OSINT / commercial satellite information indicates that there are no signs of a pending launch or engine test preparations at the Sohae launch facility. Information does indicate ongoing facility maintenance. Some are musing if the ‘Christmas present’ will be a Valentine’s day gift?
Short and sweet.
Wuhan virus -
Don’t have good “official” numbers today other than confirmed cases and deaths continue to grow. A mile marker being watched for is the expansion of infections currently hidden due to the 10-14 days before symptoms appear and asymtomatic transmission.
Social media appears to be submitting to Chinese censorship. Twitter has deleted accounts and Facebook announced it will censor false reports based off chinesse complaints.
Israel /PA peace plan -
Abbas called for an emergency meeting of the Arab league. He isn’t finding much support. Abbas also announced the PA is cutting off all contacts and agreements with Israel and the US.
Analysis. He can cut things off, but when the pinch hits the people’s pocket books he’ll be pushed back. The Palestinians in the West Bank have been doing well over the past few years having stopped serious attacks against Israel. That is the biggest gorilla in the room Abbas has to face.
Israel/Gaza -
Rocket / mortar attacks increased overnight with a corresponding increase in Israeli air strikes. Israel holding Hamas responsible for attacks by any group.
CWW -
Impeachment winding down but Antifa rioting in New York provides clues to components of leftist violence potential in urban strong holds. Directed against the police and subway ops they overwhelmed police. Imagine if they start targeting conservatives or Jews in the same manner. Urban environment allows them to mass, attack and melt back into the city. That tactic will be less successful in suburban areas and definitely not rural areas since they will be exposed more. This is why many think any “war” will be fought at the urban/suburban interface.