LSDS Global Snapshot for the Week of March 16-22, 2026

Mar 16
3 min read

The global security environment for the upcoming week remains tense, marked by travel disruptions, severe weather, civil unrest, heightened terror alerts, and rising public health concerns.

United States

TSA Shortages & Travel Delays - Ongoing staff shortages at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are resulting in longer screening times at airports. - Recent changes in security protocols may be incrementally increasing risk factors. - Travelers are advised to remain aware and patient.
Protests and Civil Unrest - Rising number of protests, with some related to global events, especially Middle East actions. - High terrorism alert levels nationally due to risks from lone actors and potential terror cells. - Recommendation: Avoid large crowds when possible.
Severe Weather - Third consecutive week forecasting likely tornado activity, starting with a storm system moving through central and eastern US. - Expect drastic temperature shifts in many US locations.
Public Health - Measles outbreak: South Carolina has the highest number of cases in the country for 2026 (664 cases). - Nationally, there have been 1,362 measles cases as of March 15, with 81 new cases in the past week.

Middle East

Ongoing Conflict - Continued and escalating air, rocket, and ground combat operations. - Most travel into conflict regions is suspended; air and sea routes are affected. - Risks of conflict spreading are increasing, with countries like Lebanon potentially becoming involved.
Cybersecurity Threats - Anticipated increase in cyber attacks targeting the US, Israel, and allied nations, possibly from Iran-aligned state actors.

Cuba

Civil Unrest Due to Blockade - Protests and small-scale rioting are increasing as the blockade affects daily life. - Situation is deteriorating, with potential for larger uprisings. - US and Cuba are engaged in diplomatic negotiations; an economic alignment deal is expected by April 15, though delays are possible.

Mexico

Cartel Violence - Continued conflict between the CJNG cartel and the Mexican government, ongoing but reportedly dissipating compared to last week.

Europe and Surrounding Regions

Severe Weather - Forecast for severe storms affecting Italy, Greece, Turkey, and Syria, with systems moving northeast across Europe.
Civil Unrest - High threat levels in multiple countries. - Protests expected in Spain, Greece, Germany, and India.

China and Global Tensions

Monitoring Potential Military Moves - Ongoing Middle East conflict may have economic impacts on China. - Current global tensions could provide an opportunity or cover for possible Chinese military actions regarding Taiwan.

Action Items & Recommendations

Travelers - Expect delays and remain vigilant at US airports; avoid large crowds domestically and internationally, especially in protest hotspots and conflict zones. - Confirm travel plans in and around the Middle East; most travel routes are closed or disrupted.
Security Monitoring - Heightened awareness for cyber threats, particularly for organizations or infrastructure aligned with US and Israeli interests.
Health Measures - Monitor measles outbreaks, especially in South Carolina and nationwide.

Key Dates & Figures

Week covered: March 16–22, 2026
Measles in US (2026 YTD): 1,362 cases (CDC, as of March 15)
Measles in South Carolina: 664 cases
Expected US–Cuba economic alignment deal: By April 15, 2026

DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless Disclaimer: LSDS™ gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS™ (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.