Havana Syndrome

Context: Havana Syndrome is back in focus after the US Pentagon began testing a covertly acquired device emitting  waves, which investigators believe could explain some unexplained illnesses.

About Havana Syndrome:

What it is?

• Havana Syndrome, officially termed Anomalous Health Incidents (AHIs), refers to a set of unexplained neurological and physical symptoms first reported in 2016 by US diplomats in Havana, Cuba, and later by intelligence and military personnel across the world.

Symptoms:

• Severe headaches and migraines
• Dizziness, vertigo and nausea
• Ringing in ears (tinnitus)
• Memory loss
• Balance problems and visual disturbances
• In some cases, symptoms similar to mild traumatic brain injury

Key Features:

• Global spread: Cases reported in Cuba, China, Europe, Russia, and the US.
• No visible injuries: Many affected showed brain-like trauma without physical impact.
• Possible directed energy link: Some scientific and intelligence assessments suggest pulsed radio-frequency or microwave energy as a possible cause.
• Uncertain attribution: US intelligence says a foreign attack is unlikely in most cases, though not fully ruled out.
• Ongoing investigation: A backpack-sized radio-wave emitting device is now being tested by the Pentagon.

Implications:

• Raises concerns about new-age warfare using invisible directed-energy weapons.
• Highlights vulnerabilities of diplomats and intelligence officers abroad.
• Complicates US–Russia due to suspicions of foreign involvement.
• Has led to compensation laws, medical monitoring, and congressional inquiries in the US.
• Signals the emergence of non-traditional, deniable weapons in global security.