NewzIntel.com

    • Checkout Page
    • Contact Us
    • Default Redirect Page
    • Frontpage
    • Home-2
    • Home-3
    • Lost Password
    • Member Login
    • Member LogOut
    • Member TOS Page
    • My Account
    • NewzIntel Alert Control-Panel
    • NewzIntel Latest Reports
    • Post Views Counter
    • Privacy Policy
    • Public Individual Page
    • Register
    • Subscription Plan
    • Thank You Page

Blog

  • MIL-OSI: KIF18A Inhibitor Clinical Trials FDA Approved KIF18A Targeting Therapies Market Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Delhi, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global KIF18A Targeting Therapies Market Trends, Clinical Trials, Technology Platforms & Future Outlook 2025 Report Highlights & Findings:

    • First KIF18A Targeting Therapy Commercial Availability Expected By 2030
    • Highest Phase Of Development: Phase-I/II
    • KIF18A Targeting Therapies In Clinical Trials:  > 10 Therapies
    • KIF18A Targeting Therapies Clinical Trials Insight By Company, Country, Indication & Phase
    • KIF18A Targeting Therapies Market Development Trends Insight
    • KIF18A Therapies Technology Platforms Insight

    Download Report: https://www.kuickresearch.com/report-kif18a-targeting-inhibitor-kif18a-inhibitor-clinical-trials-kif18a-targeting-therapy

    The global oncology landscape is witnessing rapid progress in precision medicine, and one of the most lead nominees in emerging targets is Kinesin Family Member 18A (KIF18A). It is a mitotic motor protein that is essential for chromosome alignment during mitosis, which facilitates proper segregation of chromosomes. Its perturbation leads to genomic instability, which is a distinguishing feature of cancer. Extrapolations of KIF18A have also been seen in various cancers such as ovarian and breast cancer, with an association with prognosis, drug resistance, and the potential to metastasize. As a crucial protein involved in mitosis and overexpression in cancer, KIF18A is now a promising therapeutic target.

    Targeting KIF18A interferes with mitotic mechanisms in chromosomally unstable (CIN-positive) cancer cells, causing selective death of cancer cells. In contrast to conventional chemotherapies, which indiscriminately impact all proliferating cells, KIF18A inhibitors provide a more selective and less toxic option by taking advantage of cancer cells’ vulnerability to proper mitosis. The major approach is small molecule inhibitors that disrupt KIF18A’s motor activity, hindering it from modulating microtubule dynamics at the kinetochore. It leads to mitotic arrest and failure of chromosome alignment, ultimately triggering apoptosis in cancer cells.

    Clinical development is progressing well. Volastra Therapeutics, a forerunner in this arena, is developing two KIF18A-targeting molecules: Sovilnesib (AMG650), acquired from Amgen and underway in Phase I trials for platinum-resistant high-grade serous ovarian cancer, and VLS-1488, an in-house oral inhibitor in Phase I/II. Both molecules displayed favorable safety profiles and early anti-tumor effects, with particular efficacy in high-chromosomal-instability tumors. Volastra’s pipeline demonstrates the therapeutic potential of inhibiting KIF18A to treat difficult-to-treat cancers.

    Accent Therapeutics is also advancing with ATX-295, an oral KIF18A inhibitor in initial clinical testing for solid tumors such as triple-negative breast and high-grade serous ovarian cancers. Their biomarker strategy makes use of genomic instability markers such as whole-genome doubling to better optimize patient selection and optimize therapy outcomes.

    AI based drug discovery is providing additional impetus to this area. Insilico Medicine has utilized proprietary platforms such as Chemistry42 and PandaOmics to discover ISM9682, a new macrocyclic KIF18A inhibitor with high preclinical efficacy. The AI platforms facilitate rapid optimization of candidates with increased specificity and pharmacological profiles, highlighting the growing use of sophisticated computational approaches in drug discovery.

    Aside from clinical advancement, the market opportunity for KIF18A inhibitors is also robust. As precision oncology gains more attention, the therapies are well poised to capture the opportunity of targeted therapies, particularly in diseases that are refractory to current treatments. Various companies, including Nvidia-funded Iambic Therapeutics, Aurigene Oncology, Simcere Zaiming Pharmaceutical, and Amgen, are developing promising product candidates in preclinical phases.

    Overall, the KIF18A-targeted therapy market is changing very quickly, powered by strong scientific justification, initial clinical success, and novel development approaches. As additional preclinical and clinical information becomes available, the market has significant potential for strong growth, powered by partnerships, application of artificial intelligence and machine learning tactics, and the overall dedication to creating targeted and individualized cancer therapeutics.

    The MIL Network –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Walking Comfort Accelerates Ecommerce Growth with Descartes Sellercloud™

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Descartes Systems Group (Nasdaq:DSGX) (TSX:DSG), the global leader in uniting logistics-intensive businesses in commerce, announced that Utah-based Walking Comfort, a leading retailer in the local and online footwear market, is using Descartes Sellercloud™ to help drive ecommerce growth by centralizing and synchronizing the management of product listings, inventory, orders and fulfillment across multiple online sales channels.

    “As the business grew and we expanded to a larger warehouse and more online marketplaces, we realized we needed a more sophisticated inventory and order management system to boost time-savings and operating efficiencies,” said Brad Hendricksen, Accounting and Operations Manager at Walking Comfort. “With Descartes Sellercloud, we have a powerful platform that has facilitated ecommerce growth, saved us hundreds of hours per week by automatically consolidating data across all sales channels, eliminated picking errors so staff no longer pick the wrong size or variation, and cut shipping costs by more than 55%—even enabling us to dropship directly from retail locations if it’s the most convenient and cost-effective option for a customer.”

    Descartes Sellercloud is a cloud-based ecommerce platform that helps small and mid-market retailers, distributors, wholesalers, and manufacturers with omnichannel ecommerce operations centralize the management of their catalog, inventory, orders, purchasing, fulfillment and shipping. With 350+ integrations, including to marketplaces, shopping carts, shipping partners, third party logistics providers, payment gateways and vendors, the solution provides a comprehensive ecommerce ecosystem that companies can easily leverage to expand operations as they grow.

    “We’re pleased our solution is supporting Walking Comfort as they’ve grown their business,” said Mikel Richardson, General Manager, Ecommerce at Descartes. “Using the platform, sellers can reduce operational complexity by simultaneously updating inventory and orders in real-time, avoid underselling and overselling inventory, stay compliant with marketplaces requirements, save shipping costs by automating fulfillment, and grow their business by adding more sales channels and products without losing control of inventory or order visibility.”

    Learn more about Descartes Sellercloud and Descartes’ Ecommerce Shipping and Fulfillment solutions.

    About Walking Comfort

    Walking Comfort sells various footwear products, including running shoes, slippers, sandals, recovery footwear, and accessories like insoles. Founded in 2008, they are based in Centerville, Utah, and have 35 employees and two brick-and-mortar locations. For more information, visit www.walkingcomfort.com.

    About Descartes

    Descartes (Nasdaq:DSGX) (TSX:DSG) is the global leader in providing on-demand, software-as-a-service solutions focused on improving the productivity, security and sustainability of logistics-intensive businesses. Customers use our modular, software-as-a-service solutions to route, track and help improve the safety, performance and compliance of delivery resources; plan, allocate and execute shipments; rate, audit and pay transportation invoices; access global trade data; file customs and security documents for imports and exports; and complete numerous other logistics processes by participating in the world’s largest, collaborative multimodal logistics community. Our headquarters are in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada and we have offices and partners around the world. Learn more at www.descartes.com, and connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

    Global Media Contact
    Cara Strohack
    Tel: 226-750-8050
    cstrohack@descartes.com

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws (“forward-looking statements”) that relate to Descartes’ ecommerce solution offerings and potential benefits derived therefrom; and other matters. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements or developments expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, the factors and assumptions discussed in the section entitled, “Certain Factors That May Affect Future Results” in documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Ontario Securities Commission and other securities commissions across Canada including Descartes’ most recently filed management’s discussion and analysis. If any such risks actually occur, they could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. In that case, the trading price of our common shares could decline, perhaps materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purposes of providing information about management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. We do not undertake or accept any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in our expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law.

    The MIL Network –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Castellum, Inc. Announces Creation of New Subsidiary to Focus on Advanced Technology Products

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VIENNA, Va., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Castellum, Inc. (the “Company” and “Castellum”) (NYSE-American: CTM), a cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and software services and solutions company focused on the federal government, today announced the creation of a new wholly owned subsidiary, Castellum Advanced Technology Products, Inc. (“CATP”).

    CATP will focus on teaming with other leading-edge technology companies, developing technology internally, and potentially taking equity positions in companies that have advanced technology, which Castellum’s Department of Defense customers could use.

    “Fully and timely leveraging advanced technology is the key to success on the 21st-century battlefield,” said Glen Ives, Chief Executive Officer of Castellum. “While we will continue to provide technology-enabled services to our government clients, today’s announcement represents a meaningful broadening of Castellum’s strategy for supporting the Department of Defense. We believe that having greater control over some of the key products our customers need will enable us to provide better overall solutions for the warfighter. Financially, we believe that we can increase both our revenue and our operating margins by adding more value and solving our customers’ most challenging problems. This important step reinforces our priority, focus, and commitment to constantly strengthen and enhance our organic growth capabilities.”

    About Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM):

    Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) is a cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and software engineering services company focused on the federal government – https://castellumus.com/.

    Forward-Looking Statements:

    This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. Words such as “will,” “would,” “believe,” and “expects,” and similar language or phrasing are indicative of forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, that could cause actual results to differ (sometimes materially) from the results expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, including, among others: the Company’s ability to effectively integrate and grow its acquired companies; its ability to identify additional acquisition targets and close additional acquisitions; the impact on the Company’s revenue due to a delay in the U.S. Congress approving a federal budget, operating under a prolonged continuing resolution, government shutdown, or breach of the debt ceiling, as well as the imposition by the U.S. government of sequestration in the absence of an approved budget; the ability of the U.S. federal government to unilaterally cancel a contract with or without cause, and more specifically, the potential impact of the U.S. DOGE Service Temporary Organization on government spending and terminating contracts for convenience. In evaluating such statements, prospective investors should review carefully various risks and uncertainties identified in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s recently filed Form 10-Q, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent Form 10-K, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission which can be viewed at www.sec.gov. These risks and uncertainties, or not closing the described potential equity financing in this press release, could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Except to the extent required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, a change in events, conditions, circumstances or assumptions underlying such statements, or otherwise.

    Contact:

    Glen Ives
    President and Chief Executive Officer
    Phone: (703) 752-6157
    info@castellumus.com
    https://castellumus.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/12cff6dc-d18b-4810-9020-5e7bab268788

    The MIL Network –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: RentRedi Survey: Smaller Landlords 60% More Likely to Enforce Renters Insurance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A new joint survey from RentRedi, the fastest-growing landlord software that makes renting easy for everyone, and BiggerPockets, the largest online community for real estate investors, reveals that while most landlords understand the difference between renters insurance and landlord insurance, many still don’t require it—and even fewer take steps to verify it. These results, together with a companion survey conducted by RentRedi alone, highlight that many real estate investors are still exploring the best ways to implement and manage renters insurance within their rental process.

    The joint survey with BiggerPockets, conducted from June 11–16, 2025, gathered responses from 812 real estate investors and property owners. When asked how they verify renters insurance coverage, half of respondents reported that they currently do not verify whether their tenants have renters insurance. The rest rely on a mix of manual checks, insurance company confirmations, or property management software, demonstrating that many landlords are still exploring the best ways to integrate renters insurance into their rental process.

    This snapshot complements a broader RentRedi survey conducted from March 30 to April 14, 2025 with 1,623 respondents that analyzes landlord behavior across portfolio sizes. The data shows that more than three-fourths of landlords understand the difference between landlord and renters insurance. However, only about one in five landlords offer renters insurance options directly to tenants, and fewer than half include renters insurance as a requirement in the lease.

    Verification and enforcement also vary widely. Roughly four in ten landlords said they follow up to confirm tenants have active coverage, and among those who include a requirement in the lease, the majority—nearly three out of four—said they enforce it. These numbers reflect a growing interest in formalizing and standardizing renters insurance policies as landlords seek to reduce risk and increase protection for both themselves and their tenants.

    Interestingly, landlords with smaller portfolios (1–4 units) were more likely to require and enforce renters insurance. Nearly six in ten small landlords said they include renters insurance in the lease, and four out of five of those said they enforce that requirement. While larger portfolio landlords (20+ units) were less likely to include or enforce these requirements by 22 and 15 point margins respectively, they may benefit most from automation and integrated software solutions to help manage renters insurance at scale.

    “Renters insurance protects everyone involved. It minimizes financial risk, reduces liability, and gives both landlords and tenants greater peace of mind,” said RentRedi Co-founder and CEO Ryan Barone. “These results show that landlords recognize the value but often lack a streamlined way to implement it, and that’s exactly the problem that RentRedi solves.”

    With RentRedi, landlords can easily offer renters insurance options during the application and onboarding process, require proof of coverage within the lease, and automatically verify compliance. Tenants can purchase renters insurance directly through RentRedi’s app, or upload proof of an existing policy, and landlords are notified instantly. RentRedi also integrates with select providers to enable real-time tracking and add landlords as additional insured when needed. The result is a simpler, smarter way for landlords to protect their investments, while also delivering a better experience for tenants.

    In both surveys, percentages have been rounded to the nearest whole number. The full survey results can be found here. This report is part of RentRedi’s ongoing initiative to surface real-world insights from landlords and property managers through data, direct surveys, and collaborations with trusted communities like BiggerPockets. For more data insight and survey result reports, visit RentRedi’s Rental Market Insights.

    About RentRedi

    RentRedi offers an award-winning, comprehensive property management platform that simplifies the renting process for landlords and renters by automating and streamlining processes. Investors can quickly grow their rental businesses by using RentRedi’s all-in-one web and mobile app for rent collection, market listings, tenant screening, lease signing, maintenance coordination, and accounting. Tenants enjoy the convenience and benefits of RentRedi’s easy-to-use mobile app that allows them to pay rent, set up auto-pay, build credit by reporting rent payments to all three major credit bureaus, prequalify and sign leases, and submit 24/7 maintenance requests.

    Founded in 2016, RentRedi is VC-backed and a proven leader in the PropTech market. The company ranks No. 180 on the Inc. 5000 list and No. 13 on the Inc. 5000 Regionals list. It was also named an Inc. Power Partner in 2023 and 2024, and to Fast Company’s Next Big Things in Tech list in 2024, as well as HousingWire’s Tech100 list in 2025. To date, RentRedi has more than $28 billion in assets under management with nearly 200,000 landlords and tenants using its platform. The company partners with technology leaders such as Zillow, TransUnion, Experian, Equifax, Realtor.com, Lessen, Thumbtack, Plaid, and Stripe to create the best customer experience possible. For more information visit RentRedi.com.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3054c495-1990-46b7-b58b-45792a65b570

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/148eb0b8-2512-4a3c-82e4-3f6af3bb3394

    The MIL Network –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Eritrea: Diaspora Nationals Commemorate Martyrs Day


    Download logo

    Eritrean nationals in Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Sweden, the United States, Russian Federation, South Sudan, Austria, and Finland have commemorated Martyrs Day with pride.

    Eritrean communities in the Swiss cities of Geneva, Lausanne, Valais, Bern, Zurich, Chur, St. Gallen, Solothurn, Basel, Zug, Lucerne, Schaffhausen, and Ticino; Abu Dhabi and its environs in the UAE; Gothenburg, Sweden; Ohio, USA; Moscow, Russian Federation; Vienna, Austria; Aweil and Wau, South Sudan; as well as the Finnish cities of Helsinki, Jyvaskyla, Lahti, and Oulu commemorated Martyrs Day with patriotic zeal. Participants pledged to strengthen their engagement in supporting the Martyrs Trust Fund and the families of martyrs.

    Nationals in Aweil, South Sudan, assumed responsibility for supporting 130 families of martyrs and contributed 3,500 US dollars. Nationals in Abu Dhabi and its environs contributed 5,150 Dirhams, while nationals in Finland contributed 2,830 Euros toward augmenting the Martyrs Trust Fund.

    Nationals in Switzerland who had previously taken on the responsibility of supporting families of martyrs reaffirmed their commitment. Nationals in Canton Geneva and Canton Bern contributed 4,184 Swiss francs; Canton Schaffhausen, 1,320 Swiss francs; Canton St. Gallen, 2,920 Swiss francs; Canton Lausanne, 3,360 Swiss francs; Canton Lucerne, 5,000 Swiss francs; Canton Zurich, 5,565 Swiss francs; Canton Valais, 515 Swiss francs; and Canton Aargau, 500 Swiss francs. The Eritrean community in Biel/Bienne contributed 10,000 Swiss francs to the Martyrs Trust Fund.

    Similarly, nationals in Bern contributed 5,000 Swiss francs in support of seven families of martyrs; nationals in Graubünden contributed 3,600 Swiss francs for five families; and nationals in St. Gallen contributed 10,800 Swiss francs in support of 15 families of martyrs.

    Likewise, nationals residing in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, have pledged to assume responsibility for supporting 11 families of martyrs.

    Events in all cities featured candlelight vigils and walkathon programs.

    In related news, 114,000 Nakfa contributed by staff members of the Northern Red Sea Region administration and Foro sub-zone has been distributed to families of martyrs.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mozambique: Armed Group’s Child Abductions Surge in North


    Download logo

    An armed group linked to the Islamic State (ISIS) has ramped up abductions of children in northern Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province, Human Rights Watch said today. Most of the abducted children are being used for transporting looted goods, forced labor, forced marriages, and taking part in the fighting.

    National civil society groups and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) report that such kidnappings are on the rise. While the armed group, locally known as Al-Shabab, released some of the children they abducted earlier this year, a number of children remain missing; those who have returned to their communities struggle with reintegration. 

    “The surge in abductions of children in Cabo Delgado adds to the horrors of Mozambique’s conflict,” said Ashwanee Budoo-Scholtz, deputy Africa director at Human Rights Watch. “Al-Shabab needs to spare children from the conflict and immediately release those who have been abducted.”

    In May and June 2025, Human Rights Watch interviewed nine people in Mozambique, including residents of Cabo Delgado, journalists, civil society activists, and a UN official, all of whom expressed concern about the resurgence of kidnappings. “In recent days, 120 or more children have been abducted,” said Abudo Gafuro, executive director at Kwendeleya, a national organization that monitors attacks and provides support to victims. 

    On January 23, 2025, Al-Shabab attacked the village of Mumu, in Mocímboa da Praia district, and abducted four girls and three boys. During Al-Shabab’s subsequent retreat, two children were released, but five remain missing. In March, the armed group abducted six children in Chibau to carry looted goods; four were released the following day. On May 3, Al-Shabab abducted a girl in the village of Ntotwe, Mocímboa da Praia district; on May 11, they kidnapped six girls and two boys near Magaia village in Muidumbe district. 

    When Al-Shabab fighters “enter or attack certain areas, they tend to abduct children,” said Augusta Iaquite, coordinator at the Association of Women in Legal Careers in Cabo Delgado. “They take them to train them and later turn them into their own fighters.” 

    When children who have been abducted return to the community, there are few resources to help them reintegrate, Human Rights Watch said. “The country needs a clear strategy on what to do when a child, especially one that has been rescued, returns,” said Benilde Nhalivilo, executive director at the Civil Society Forum for Children’s Rights. 

    Civil society organizations have called on Mozambique’s government to fulfill the country’s obligations under domestic and international law to protect the nation’s children. 

    Mozambique’s Constitution and the 2008 Law for the Promotion and Protection of Children’s Rights enshrine the state’s duty to protect children from all forms of violence, exploitation, and abuse. Additionally, Mozambique is a party to various international and regional instruments that guarantee children’s rights, including the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. Both explicitly prohibit the abduction, recruitment, and exploitation of children. The UN Optional Protocol to the Child Rights Convention on the involvement of children in armed conflict, ratified by Mozambique in 2004, prohibits non-state armed groups from recruiting or using children under 18. 

    Under customary international humanitarian law and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, children are entitled to special respect and protection, and recruiting or using children under the age of 15 to participate actively in hostilities is a war crime. 

    Mozambican authorities should seek to prevent further abductions, investigate existing cases and fairly prosecute those responsible, and ensure proper support for victims, Human Rights Watch said. Rescued children need medical care, psychosocial assistance, and reintegration mechanisms that provide for their protection and well-being.

    “Mozambique’s government needs to take concrete actions to safeguard children and prevent armed groups from using them as tools of conflict,” Budoo-Scholtz said. “There is a need to ensure that there are robust reintegration measures so that the children are not further ostracized when they come back to the community.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Human Rights Watch (HRW).

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Expanding access to sexual and reproductive health services in Ethiopia


    Download logo

    To address gaps in sexual and reproductive healthcare access, widened by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing humanitarian crises, Ethiopia is reinforcing its health system, making these vital services more accessible for women and adolescents in remote and crisis-affected areas.

    A key part of this effort is promoting self-care, by giving people the knowledge and tools to manage their own sexual and reproductive health through safe, simple and affordable practices for family planning, HIV prevention, cervical cancer prevention, nutrition, and maternal, adolescent and youth health. Practical examples range from access to contraceptives, pregnancy tests, and HIV self-test kits, all supported by educational guidance. This also includes self-management of medical abortion in line with national legislation, which permits the procedure under certain conditions.  

    With support from World Health Organization (WHO), health authorities have developed the National Self-Care Intervention Guideline, focusing on interventions for women, adolescent and child health. They have also integrated self-care and expanded sexual and reproductive health services into key national policy guidelines, including those related to family planning, safe abortion care, teenage pregnancy reduction, and sexual and reproductive health responses in humanitarian settings.

    Across the country, health workers are being trained to teach people how to promote these self-care tools. This started with a workshop for 38 public health officials from the Ministry of Health, Regional Health Bureaus and other institutions in June 2024. The initiative was then expanded to the sub-national level, equipping 67 health providers and managers with skills, in October 2024.  

    “The recommendations and action plan we developed will help us integrate self-care into our existing health services effectively,” said Daniel Nadew, Maternal Child Health desk team lead from Addis Ababa City Health Bureau.

    Following the scaling up self-care training, at Kolfe Health Centre in Addis Ababa, one of the pilot facilities, the introduction of self-care services contributed to a significant increase in access to services. In 2024, as part of the family planning service delivery, more than 800 women received over-the-counter combined oral contraceptives, compared with 280 in 2022.

    Additionally, 84 women were trained to self-administer a safe and effective injectable contraceptive, known as DMPA, and more than 1000 adolescents were provided condoms after training on correct use.

    Moreover, 50 women received self-management of medical abortion services, which included comprehensive training on how and when to use the medication, the correct dose, side effects, possible complications, and guidance on when to get medical help.

    “The self-care training has significantly improved my knowledge and skills in providing comprehensive family planning and abortion care. The practical sessions were particularly helpful, and I feel more confident in my ability to support women in my community,” said Fatima Belay*, a health worker from Addis Ababa.

    Belay * also highlighted the benefits of self-administered injectable contraceptives: “I appreciate the ease and convenience of the self-administering contraceptive, which I am able to use at home, at my usual workplace, or wherever I am.”

    Amid the humanitarian crises in the northern region of Amhara, WHO and the Ethiopian Public Health Institute trained 30 healthcare providers from 13 health facilities in conflict-affected districts on self-care intervention guidelines.

    Following the training, nine facilities provided onsite selfcare orientation for their staff which resulted in over 100 women and adolescents being educated on selfcare for family planning, antenatal care, pregnancy danger signs, nutrition, and safe abortion.  

    Gish Abay Health Centre empowered 120 adolescents with skills for correct condom use and provided safe abortion care for 35 adolescent girls. Tilili Health Centre broadened the scope of self-care to include HIV self-testing, breast self-examination, pregnancy self-testing, and condom and emergency contraceptive use.

    “These interventions significantly benefited the community and contributed to the efforts towards reducing preventable maternal and perinatal deaths. It will enable us to reach every mother, newborn, child, and adolescent in our community who are critically in need of health services,” said Nadew.

    “Ethiopia’s commitment for self-care integration is empowering individuals, especially women and adolescents, with the knowledge and tools for proactive health management, offering considerable community convenience and cost savings,” said Dr Owen Kaluwa, WHO Representative in Ethiopia. “WHO is proud to support this effort, which significantly improves health outcomes by expanding access to critical sexual and reproductive health services, particularly crucial in conflict-affected areas.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Ethiopia.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE convenes high-level Annual Security Review Conference to address the current security situation in the region

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: OSCE convenes high-level Annual Security Review Conference to address the current security situation in the region

    VIENNA, 24 JUNE 2025 – The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) will hold a two-day Annual Security Review Conference (ASRC) in Vienna on 25 and 26 June 2025.
    Organized this year by the Finnish 2025 OSCE Chairpersonship, the Conference will bring together diplomats and high-level officials from the capitals of the 57 OSCE participating States.
    On 25 June, the opening session will feature keynote remarks by OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Finnish Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen (remotely), OSCE Secretary General Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, and the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Security Policy of Finland Outi Holopainen.
    Journalists are invited to follow the livestream of the keynote segment of the opening session, beginning at 11:30 on Wednesday, 25 June 2025: www.osce.org/live
    The ASRC is one of the OSCE’s main events for fostering dialogue on regional security challenges, providing an essential platform for comprehensive discussions on contemporary security threats facing Europe and the role of the OSCE in addressing them.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Germany 2025 early parliamentary elections: ODIHR election assessment mission final report

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Germany 2025 early parliamentary elections: ODIHR election assessment mission final report

    Germany’s parliamentary elections in February were competitive and professionally managed, despite logistical challenges due to tight deadlines. While fundamental freedoms were respected overall, the vibrant campaign was targeted by disinformation and foreign interference and marked by polarization.
    Media coverage of the campaign was extensive and varied, allowing citizens to make an informed choice on election day. At the same time, several aspects of the electoral legislation were of concern and need further review. These relate to the criminalization of defamation, insufficient transparency and scope of campaign finance regulations, limited effectiveness of election dispute resolution and lack of efforts to promote women’s participation in political life.
    These are some of the main conclusions from the final report, published by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). The report offers recommendations to bring elections in Germany closer in line with OSCE commitments and international standards for democratic elections.
    Key recommendations include:

    Aligning the legal framework with the commitments made by all OSCE states as well as international standards through an inclusive consultation process;
    Increasing efforts to ensure women’s active participation in public and political life;

    Addressing electoral violence proactively;
    Strengthening freedom of expression by lifting criminal sanctions for defamation;

    Ensuring timely and effective remedy for violations of election-related legislation;
    Improving the campaign finance framework by establishing timely and transparent reporting and setting up an independent oversight body;

    Enhancing the transparency and integrity of the electoral process by publishing detailed and disaggregated election results;
    Guaranteeing the unrestricted access of citizen and international observers to the entire electoral process.

    The ODIHR Election Assessment Mission to the 23 February early parliamentary elections started work on 10 February and remained in the country until 26 February.
    The ODIHR mission also assessed the country’s efforts to implement previous recommendations through changes in legislation, procedures and practices. For Germany, the ODIHR mission evaluated the follow-up to recommendations from the 2017 and the 2021 parliamentary elections, and concluded that 1 recommendation had been fully implemented and 4 partially addressed, while others are still outstanding. A full list can be found on p. 32 of today’s report.
    All 57 countries across the OSCE region have formally committed to follow up promptly on ODIHR’s election assessments and recommendations. The ODIHR Electoral Recommendations Database tracks the extent to which recommendations are implemented by states across the OSCE region.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE Presence presents feasibility study for Research Centre on Local Development at Gjirokastra University

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: OSCE Presence presents feasibility study for Research Centre on Local Development at Gjirokastra University

    OSCE Presence in Albania presents feasibility study for Research Centre on Local Development at Gjirokastra University. (OSCE/Shila Bandilli) Photo details

    On 24 June, the OSCE Presence in Albania, in partnership with the University of Gjirokastra, presented the findings of a feasibility assessment for a Research Centre for Local Development.
    The event convened academic staff, government representatives, civil society, students, and local stakeholders to discuss the pivotal role of research and data in supporting policymaking and fostering sustainable local development.
    The meeting was officially opened by Professor Jaho Cana, Rector of the University of Gjirokastra; Ambassador Michel Tarran, Head of the OSCE Presence in Albania; and representatives from the Municipality of Gjirokastra and the Agency for the Support of Local Self-Government.
    In his remarks, Ambassador Tarran, the Head of OSCE Presence in Albania, emphasized the critical role that academic research can play in addressing the complex issues confronting local communities. “Local governments are at the forefront of tackling challenges such as economic growth, depopulation, environmental degradation, and climate change. A dedicated research centre can provide the tools, analyses, and trained professionals necessary to support evidence-based decisions and build long-term resilience,” he stated.
    The feasibility study, conducted by an OSCE-contracted expert, is the result of extensive consultations with academic staff, municipalities, and local stakeholders. It identifies clear needs, opportunities, and potential models for the establishment of an interdisciplinary research hub designed to support policy formulation, local economic and social development, and regional capacity-building.
    This initiative forms part of the OSCE Presence’s ongoing support to strengthening local governance in Albania, by introducing new instruments and tools for co-operation among authorities, civil society, academia, and the business sector to foster sustainable and inclusive growth across the country.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Animal Sentience Committee letter regarding planning policy proposals

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Correspondence

    Animal Sentience Committee letter regarding planning policy proposals

    Letter from the Animal Sentience Committee to the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee regarding planning policy changes, including the Planning and Infrastructure Bill.

    Documents

    Planning policy changes, including the Planning and Infrastructure Bill: letter from the Animal Sentience Committee

    HTML

    Details

    The Animal Sentience Committee sent this letter to the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee (EFRA) committee on 24 June 2025. It outlines the committee’s view on the consideration of impacts on animal welfare in planning policy proposals.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Panko & Sushi joins the line-up at Capital&Centric’s Goods Yard

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Tuesday, 24th June 2025

    The buzz around social impact developer Capital&Centric’s Goods Yard is cranking up another notch, as Panko & Sushi gears up to bring its knockout Japanese flavours to the canalside neighbourhood.

    They’re taking over a 1,650 sq ft commercial unit on the ground floor of the Goods Yard apartment building, ready to open their doors later this year.

    This is all part of the plan for Goods Yard, Capital&Centric’s game-changing neighbourhood in Stoke-on-Trent. The development features 174 design-led rental homes, 30,000 sq ft of workspace and a stack of spaces for independent bars, restaurants, coffee shops and stores – all built around a lush, green public square that’s already become a new go-to spot for locals and visitors.

    Founded by Edward Cayton, who has 27 years of experience in the hospitality industry and a passion for Japanese cuisine, Panko & Sushi is set to inject a fresh slice of contemporary Japan into the Goods Yard mix. Their move underlines the growing draw of this new neighbourhood, which also counts global property advisors Avison Young among its first tenants in the Pavilion building.

    The developer recently threw open the doors to Goods Yard’s 174 apartments, with queues around the block as locals got their first look inside. Demand has been sky-high, with many of the homes already snapped up.

    Tom Wilmot, Joint Managing Director at Capital&Centric, said: “Having Panko & Sushi choose Goods Yard shows how this new neighbourhood is already turning heads. Their energy and creativity fit perfectly with what we’re all about – bringing authentic, independent vibes to the heart of Stoke-on-Trent. We’re excited to see them add their own flavour to the mix and help make Goods Yard the city’s new social hub.”

    Edward Cayton, founder of Panko & Sushi said: “We’ve always believed in finding neighbourhoods with real character and buzz, and Goods Yard has that in spades. There’s a great energy and community vibe here – it’s the perfect spot for Panko & Sushi to land in Stoke. We can’t wait to open our doors and start serving up fresh, flavour-packed dishes to our new neighbours.”

    Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, Cabinet Member for Transport, Infrastructure and Regeneration, Stoke-on-Trent City Council said: “This is more fantastic news – coming hot on the heels of the announcement that Cotton, an independent coffee shop and sandwich specialists are also opening at the Goods Yard.

    “There is real interest both commercially and from people looking to move in and rent homes too. The development is a real centre piece for the regeneration of our city and it is creating exciting community-based opportunities, while delivering an economic boost.” 

    With commercial spaces ranging from 1,200 sq ft to 14,000 sq ft across The Vaults, Signal Box on Glebe Street, the new build Pavilion, and the industrial-style units on the ground floor of the apartment building, Goods Yard is quickly shaping up as the city’s place to be.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Military parade in China to showcase domestically produced military equipment in active service

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — Domestic military equipment in active service with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) will be on display at a military parade scheduled to be held in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square on Sept. 3, a military officer said at a press conference Tuesday.

    On September 3, China will hold a military parade in Tiananmen Square in central Beijing to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War.

    The military parade will feature foot columns, military equipment columns and air echelons. It will feature new types of combat forces, including unmanned intelligent technology.

    Major General Wu Zeke of the Joint Staff of the Central Military Commission (CMC) said the formations to be displayed at the military parade will clearly demonstrate the restructured composition of China’s armed forces as a result of recent military reforms.

    According to him, the columns of military equipment at the military parade will demonstrate China’s latest achievements in the development of the military equipment system.

    The military parade will reflect the new model of using PLA forces – unified command, coordinated operations and comprehensive support, as well as the country’s ability to independently innovate in weapons, the major general added.

    The air echelons will highlight the systematic development of China’s air force combat capabilities and the rapid progress of modern strike power, Wu Zeke noted. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Kuomintang veterans who fought in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression will be invited to the military parade on September 3

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — Veterans of the Kuomintang Party troops who fought in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression will be invited to attend the military parade in Tiananmen Square in Beijing scheduled for Sept. 3.

    The military parade will be held as part of a series of events marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, a press conference announced on Tuesday.

    As reported at the press conference, veterans of the military, labor and militia, as well as representatives of those who distinguished themselves in providing support to the front during the fight against the Japanese invaders, and relatives of the heroes who died in the war will be invited to watch the parade. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: UN peacekeepers from China to take part in military parade on September 3

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — Chinese troops with experience in UN peacekeeping will take part in a military parade on Sept. 3 to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, Wu Zeke, a spokesman for the Joint Staff of the Central Military Commission, told a press conference on Tuesday.

    The decision not only underscores the solemnity of China’s celebration of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, but also demonstrates the country’s commitment to fulfilling its international obligations and safeguarding world peace, Wu Zeke said.

    He noted that in the 35 years since China joined UN peacekeeping operations, the Chinese military has sent more than 50,000 peacekeepers to more than 20 countries and regions around the world, carrying out 26 UN peacekeeping missions. A total of 17 Chinese servicemen have given their lives for world peace, he added.

    According to Wu Zeke, Chinese peacekeepers have always demonstrated courage and professionalism in the face of armed conflicts, pandemic outbreaks or natural disasters, faithfully carrying out their missions to safeguard peace and stability – from demining and ceasefire monitoring to escorting and conducting emergency rescue operations.

    “The Chinese armed forces have always been a strong force fighting for world peace,” he concluded. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Awards – Federated Farmers emerging and seasoned leaders honoured at 2025 PINZ Awards

    Source: Federated Farmers

    A young Federated Farmers leader building her expertise advocating for the sector, and a man who became a master at it, are among those recognised in the 2025 Primary Industries New Zealand Awards.
    Federated Farmers Bay of Plenty sharefarmer chair Bridie Virbickas was presented with the Emerging Leader Award, and the late Chris Allen was posthumously named Rural Hero, at the seventh annual awards ceremony in Christchurch tonight.
    With an audience of more than 400 keen to celebrate the best and brightest across New Zealand’s primary industries, the awards night is a highlight of the Rabobank-sponsored two-day Primary Industries New Zealand (PINZ) Summit.
    Awards judges said Virbickas is making a strong mark in the dairy sector – managing 850 cows while leading beyond the farm gate.
    As an elected Feds sharefarmer leader, Virbickas supports fellow farmers through advocacy, dispute resolution, and practical workshops.
    She’s also a founding trustee of AgRecovery, helping reduce farm waste nationwide, and leads on-farm restoration projects with schools and councils – demonstrating her commitment to both sustainability and community.
    The Rural Hero Award is always another standout at PINZ, and it was awarded this year to former Federated Farmers national board member Chris Allen, who died in an accident on his Ashburton farm late last year.
    It’s been said that every New Zealand farming family is in his debt for his years of championing rural causes.
    The judges acknowledged Allen’s “collaborative nature, persistence and practicality, which meant as a Federated Farmers leader his advocacy on freshwater, environmental and biodiversity issues was compelling and effective.
    “A top farmer in his own right, he led with humour and knowledge.”
    Meanwhile, Southland farmer and NZ Pork chair Eric Roy was presented with the Outstanding Contribution to Primary Industries Award.
    Roy’s production, leadership, advocacy and political service to primary industries and rural communities in New Zealand and the wider Pacific spans nearly 60 years.
    His work for Young Farmers culminated in his election as world president, and the six-term Member of Parliament has also excelled in roles with Federated Farmers, Pāmu, the Meat & Wool Board and a host of community and charity initiatives.
    “Few can match his contribution – Eric Roy is a truly exceptional New Zealander,” the judging panel said.
    A Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) initiative to help farmers get the most out of their combine harvesters earned FAR the Technology Innovation Award.
    The results of workshops and follow-up one-on-one sessions were spectacular, with improvements in harvest efficiency, productivity, sustainability and profitability.
    Farmers reported increases in yields of between 20% and 50%, with one participant describing the initiatives as “the best use of levies ever”.
    The Team and Collaboration Award went to Fonterra, LIC, Ballance and Ravensdown for their open data sharing ecosystem.
    Built on key principles of recognising the data belongs to farmers, keeping data secure and letting farmers choose who they share it with, the initiative has saved farmers an estimated 250,000 hours of admin time so far.
    Dr Robyn Dyne has won the Primary Industries Champion Award for her research into nitrate leaching and emissions, which has directly informed national mitigation strategies.
    She’s helped build uptake of sustainable land-use change and, as a principal scientist, advisor, and board member, has helped keep farmers, scientists, and policymakers working together.
    Food, Beverage and Fibre Producer Award winners Chia Sisters use New Zealand fruit and ingredients like kawakawa alongside chia seeds in their health food drinks.
    Judges noted their sustainability commitments and innovation through the supply chain, including pioneering pressed juice in returnable kegs, and supporting growers by making use of hail-damaged fruit.
    PacificVet Ltd and co-founder Dr Kent Keitemeyer won the Guardianship and Conservation/Kaitiakitanga Award.
    Judges were impressed that the company donated its specialist services to support the Department of Conservation to vaccinate New Zealand’s critically endangered bird species, such as teal and kakapo.
    Their efforts have been pivotal to the preservation of our native birdlife and will help protect our gene pools for future generations. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Stabilization Notice – PRE STAB – Kepler SPA (BIOFARMA)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    24/06/25

    Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.

    KELPER SPA (BIOFARMA)

    Pre-stabilisation Period Announcement

    BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222 hereby gives notice, as Stabilisation Coordinator, that the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below may stabilise the offer of the following securities in accordance with Commission Delegated Regulation EU/2016/1052 under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014).

    The securities:1  
    Issuer: KEPLER SPA (BIOFARMA)
    Guarantor (if any): N/A
    Aggregate nominal amount: TBC
    Description: EUR 4.5NC1
    Offer price: TBC
    Other offer terms:  
    Stabilisation:  
    Stabilisation Manager(s) BNP PARIBAS, ING, JEFFRIES, SMBC, IMI-INTESA SANPAOLO, KCM, NATIXIS, NOMURA
    Stabilisation period expected to start on: 24/06/25
    Stabilisation period expected to end no later than: 08/08/25
    Existence, maximum size and conditions of use of over‑allotment facility: The Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities to the extent permitted in accordance with applicable law.
    Stabilisation trading venue: OTC

    In connection with the offer of the above securities, the Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities or effect transactions with a view to supporting the market price of the securities during the stabilisation period at a level higher than that which might otherwise prevail. However, stabilisation may not necessarily occur and any stabilisation action, if begun, may cease at any time. Any stabilisation action or over‑allotment shall be conducted in accordance with all applicable laws and rules.

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

    This announcement and the offer of the securities to which it relates are only addressed to and directed at persons outside the United Kingdom and persons in the United Kingdom who have professional experience in matters related to investments or who are high net worth persons within Article 12(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the United Kingdom.

    In addition, if and to the extent that this announcement is communicated in, or the offer of the securities to which it relates is made in, the UK or any EEA Member State before the publication of a prospectus in relation to the securities which has been approved by the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (the “Prospectus  Regulation”) (or which has been approved by a competent authority in another Member State and notified to the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation), this announcement and the offer are only addressed to and directed at persons in the UK or that Member State who are qualified investors within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (or who are other persons to whom the offer may lawfully be addressed) and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the UK or that Member State.

    This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There will be no public offer of securities in the United States. 

    The MIL Network –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Stabilization Notice – PRE STAB – Kepler SPA (BIOFARMA)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    24/06/25

    Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.

    KELPER SPA (BIOFARMA)

    Pre-stabilisation Period Announcement

    BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222 hereby gives notice, as Stabilisation Coordinator, that the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below may stabilise the offer of the following securities in accordance with Commission Delegated Regulation EU/2016/1052 under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014).

    The securities:1  
    Issuer: KEPLER SPA (BIOFARMA)
    Guarantor (if any): N/A
    Aggregate nominal amount: TBC
    Description: EUR 4.5NC1
    Offer price: TBC
    Other offer terms:  
    Stabilisation:  
    Stabilisation Manager(s) BNP PARIBAS, ING, JEFFRIES, SMBC, IMI-INTESA SANPAOLO, KCM, NATIXIS, NOMURA
    Stabilisation period expected to start on: 24/06/25
    Stabilisation period expected to end no later than: 08/08/25
    Existence, maximum size and conditions of use of over‑allotment facility: The Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities to the extent permitted in accordance with applicable law.
    Stabilisation trading venue: OTC

    In connection with the offer of the above securities, the Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities or effect transactions with a view to supporting the market price of the securities during the stabilisation period at a level higher than that which might otherwise prevail. However, stabilisation may not necessarily occur and any stabilisation action, if begun, may cease at any time. Any stabilisation action or over‑allotment shall be conducted in accordance with all applicable laws and rules.

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

    This announcement and the offer of the securities to which it relates are only addressed to and directed at persons outside the United Kingdom and persons in the United Kingdom who have professional experience in matters related to investments or who are high net worth persons within Article 12(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the United Kingdom.

    In addition, if and to the extent that this announcement is communicated in, or the offer of the securities to which it relates is made in, the UK or any EEA Member State before the publication of a prospectus in relation to the securities which has been approved by the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (the “Prospectus  Regulation”) (or which has been approved by a competent authority in another Member State and notified to the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation), this announcement and the offer are only addressed to and directed at persons in the UK or that Member State who are qualified investors within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (or who are other persons to whom the offer may lawfully be addressed) and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the UK or that Member State.

    This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There will be no public offer of securities in the United States. 

    The MIL Network –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Hut 8 Amends and Expands Bitcoin-Backed Credit Facility with Coinbase to $130 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hut 8 Corp. (Nasdaq | TSX: HUT) (“Hut 8” or the “Company”), an energy infrastructure platform integrating power, digital infrastructure, and compute at scale to fuel next-generation, energy-intensive use cases such as Bitcoin mining and high-performance computing, today announced that its subsidiary has entered into a Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Coinbase Credit, Inc. (“Coinbase”) to amend and expand its Bitcoin-backed credit facility from $65 million to up to $130 million and extend the maturity date to July 16, 2026.

    The amended facility reflects significant improvements in both economic and structural terms, including:

    • Up to $65 million in incremental, non-dilutive capital that positions Hut 8 to deploy capital against near-term opportunities advancing through its growth pipeline.
    • Conversion from a floating-rate structure to a fixed interest rate of 9.0% designed to improve Hut 8’s overall cost of capital as it scales, compared to a stated interest rate ranging from 10.5% to 11.5% between the quarter ended December 31, 2023 and the quarter ended March 31, 2025; and
    • Collateral and borrower protections including an improved limited recourse structure and continued application of a no-rehypothecation covenant on pledged Bitcoin.

    “As we advance a robust pipeline of growth opportunities, we have partnered with Coinbase to strategically double the size of our credit facility and deliver significantly improved terms,” said Asher Genoot, CEO of Hut 8. “The amended structure reflects a shared commitment to disciplined growth and leveraging flexible, non-dilutive capital as we position ourselves to execute on opportunities in our pipeline.”

    “This facility has been an efficient source of capital on our balance sheet, and the amended and restated agreement further strengthens its strategic value,” said Sean Glennan, CFO of Hut 8. “The combination of improved terms and collateral and borrower protections reflects our conviction that risk discipline is essential to building a resilient and efficient capital structure. We are grateful to Coinbase for their continued, constructive partnership in supporting this philosophy.”

    “We’re delighted to deepen our relationship with Hut 8 through this expanded credit facility, which reflects our shared focus on risk-managed growth and capital efficiency,” said Matt Boyd, Head of Institutional Financing at Coinbase. “By delivering non-dilutive financing with enhanced collateral protections, we’re supporting innovators like Hut 8 as they scale responsibly in the digital infrastructure ecosystem.”

    About Hut 8 

    Hut 8 Corp. is an energy infrastructure platform integrating power, digital infrastructure, and compute at scale to fuel next-generation, energy-intensive use cases such as Bitcoin mining and high-performance computing. We take a power-first, innovation-driven approach to developing, commercializing, and operating the critical infrastructure that underpins the breakthrough technologies of today and tomorrow. Our platform spans 1,020 megawatts of energy capacity under management across 15 sites in the United States and Canada: five Bitcoin mining, hosting, and Managed Services sites in Alberta, New York, and Texas, five high performance computing data centers in British Columbia and Ontario, four power generation assets in Ontario, and one non-operational site in Alberta. For more information, visit www.hut8.com and follow us on X at @Hut8Corp.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward–Looking Information

    This press release includes “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian securities laws and United States securities laws, respectively (collectively, “forward-looking information”). All information, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release that address activities, events, or developments that Hut 8 expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including statements relating to positioning Hut 8 to deploy capital against near-term opportunities in its growth pipeline, advancing Hut 8’s robust pipeline of growth opportunities, Hut 8 and Coinbase’s shared commitment to disciplined growth and leveraging flexible, non-dilutive capital, Hut 8 scaling responsibly in the digital infrastructure ecosystem, and other such matters is forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is often identified by the words “may”, “would”, “could”, “should”, “will”, “intend”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “allow”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “predict”, “can”, “might”, “potential”, “predict”, “is designed to”, “likely,” or similar expressions.

    Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts, but instead represent management’s expectations, estimates, and projections regarding future events based on certain material factors and assumptions at the time the statement was made. While considered reasonable by Hut 8 as of the date of this press release, such statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including, but not limited to, failure of critical systems; geopolitical, social, economic, and other events and circumstances; competition from current and future competitors; risks related to power requirements; cybersecurity threats and breaches; hazards and operational risks; changes in leasing arrangements; Internet-related disruptions; dependence on key personnel; having a limited operating history; attracting and retaining customers; entering into new offerings or lines of business; price fluctuations and rapidly changing technologies; construction of new data centers, data center expansions, or data center redevelopment; predicting facility requirements; strategic alliances or joint ventures; operating and expanding internationally; failing to grow hashrate; purchasing miners; relying on third-party mining pool service providers; uncertainty in the development and acceptance of the Bitcoin network; Bitcoin halving events; competition from other methods of investing in Bitcoin; concentration of Bitcoin holdings; hedging transactions; potential liquidity constraints; legal, regulatory, governmental, and technological uncertainties; physical risks related to climate change; involvement in legal proceedings; trading volatility; and other risks described from time to time in Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. In particular, see the Company’s recent and upcoming annual and quarterly reports and other continuous disclosure documents, which are available under the Company’s EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov and SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Hut 8 Corp. Investor Relations
    Sue Ennis
    ir@hut8.com

    Hut 8 Corp. Public Relations
    Gautier Lemyze-Young
    media@hut8.com

    The MIL Network –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Hut 8 Amends and Expands Bitcoin-Backed Credit Facility with Coinbase to $130 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hut 8 Corp. (Nasdaq | TSX: HUT) (“Hut 8” or the “Company”), an energy infrastructure platform integrating power, digital infrastructure, and compute at scale to fuel next-generation, energy-intensive use cases such as Bitcoin mining and high-performance computing, today announced that its subsidiary has entered into a Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Coinbase Credit, Inc. (“Coinbase”) to amend and expand its Bitcoin-backed credit facility from $65 million to up to $130 million and extend the maturity date to July 16, 2026.

    The amended facility reflects significant improvements in both economic and structural terms, including:

    • Up to $65 million in incremental, non-dilutive capital that positions Hut 8 to deploy capital against near-term opportunities advancing through its growth pipeline.
    • Conversion from a floating-rate structure to a fixed interest rate of 9.0% designed to improve Hut 8’s overall cost of capital as it scales, compared to a stated interest rate ranging from 10.5% to 11.5% between the quarter ended December 31, 2023 and the quarter ended March 31, 2025; and
    • Collateral and borrower protections including an improved limited recourse structure and continued application of a no-rehypothecation covenant on pledged Bitcoin.

    “As we advance a robust pipeline of growth opportunities, we have partnered with Coinbase to strategically double the size of our credit facility and deliver significantly improved terms,” said Asher Genoot, CEO of Hut 8. “The amended structure reflects a shared commitment to disciplined growth and leveraging flexible, non-dilutive capital as we position ourselves to execute on opportunities in our pipeline.”

    “This facility has been an efficient source of capital on our balance sheet, and the amended and restated agreement further strengthens its strategic value,” said Sean Glennan, CFO of Hut 8. “The combination of improved terms and collateral and borrower protections reflects our conviction that risk discipline is essential to building a resilient and efficient capital structure. We are grateful to Coinbase for their continued, constructive partnership in supporting this philosophy.”

    “We’re delighted to deepen our relationship with Hut 8 through this expanded credit facility, which reflects our shared focus on risk-managed growth and capital efficiency,” said Matt Boyd, Head of Institutional Financing at Coinbase. “By delivering non-dilutive financing with enhanced collateral protections, we’re supporting innovators like Hut 8 as they scale responsibly in the digital infrastructure ecosystem.”

    About Hut 8 

    Hut 8 Corp. is an energy infrastructure platform integrating power, digital infrastructure, and compute at scale to fuel next-generation, energy-intensive use cases such as Bitcoin mining and high-performance computing. We take a power-first, innovation-driven approach to developing, commercializing, and operating the critical infrastructure that underpins the breakthrough technologies of today and tomorrow. Our platform spans 1,020 megawatts of energy capacity under management across 15 sites in the United States and Canada: five Bitcoin mining, hosting, and Managed Services sites in Alberta, New York, and Texas, five high performance computing data centers in British Columbia and Ontario, four power generation assets in Ontario, and one non-operational site in Alberta. For more information, visit www.hut8.com and follow us on X at @Hut8Corp.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward–Looking Information

    This press release includes “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian securities laws and United States securities laws, respectively (collectively, “forward-looking information”). All information, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release that address activities, events, or developments that Hut 8 expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including statements relating to positioning Hut 8 to deploy capital against near-term opportunities in its growth pipeline, advancing Hut 8’s robust pipeline of growth opportunities, Hut 8 and Coinbase’s shared commitment to disciplined growth and leveraging flexible, non-dilutive capital, Hut 8 scaling responsibly in the digital infrastructure ecosystem, and other such matters is forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is often identified by the words “may”, “would”, “could”, “should”, “will”, “intend”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “allow”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “predict”, “can”, “might”, “potential”, “predict”, “is designed to”, “likely,” or similar expressions.

    Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts, but instead represent management’s expectations, estimates, and projections regarding future events based on certain material factors and assumptions at the time the statement was made. While considered reasonable by Hut 8 as of the date of this press release, such statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including, but not limited to, failure of critical systems; geopolitical, social, economic, and other events and circumstances; competition from current and future competitors; risks related to power requirements; cybersecurity threats and breaches; hazards and operational risks; changes in leasing arrangements; Internet-related disruptions; dependence on key personnel; having a limited operating history; attracting and retaining customers; entering into new offerings or lines of business; price fluctuations and rapidly changing technologies; construction of new data centers, data center expansions, or data center redevelopment; predicting facility requirements; strategic alliances or joint ventures; operating and expanding internationally; failing to grow hashrate; purchasing miners; relying on third-party mining pool service providers; uncertainty in the development and acceptance of the Bitcoin network; Bitcoin halving events; competition from other methods of investing in Bitcoin; concentration of Bitcoin holdings; hedging transactions; potential liquidity constraints; legal, regulatory, governmental, and technological uncertainties; physical risks related to climate change; involvement in legal proceedings; trading volatility; and other risks described from time to time in Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. In particular, see the Company’s recent and upcoming annual and quarterly reports and other continuous disclosure documents, which are available under the Company’s EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov and SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Hut 8 Corp. Investor Relations
    Sue Ennis
    ir@hut8.com

    Hut 8 Corp. Public Relations
    Gautier Lemyze-Young
    media@hut8.com

    The MIL Network –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: KANZHUN LIMITED Announces Launch of Share Offer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BEIJING, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — KANZHUN LIMITED (“BOSS Zhipin” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BZ; HKEX: 2076), a leading online recruitment platform in China, today announced the launch of its share offer of 30,000,000 Class A ordinary shares, comprising a Hong Kong public offering of initially 3,000,000 Class A ordinary shares (the “Hong Kong Public Offering”) and an international offering of initially 27,000,000 Class A ordinary shares (the “International Offering”, together with the Hong Kong Public Offering, the “Share Offer”), subject to reallocation and offer size adjustment.

    The initial offer shares available for the Hong Kong Public Offering and the International Offering are subject to reallocation (including clawback). Additionally, the Company has an offer size adjustment option to increase the number of offer shares based on market demand up to an aggregate of 4,500,000 additional Class A ordinary shares, representing 15% of the initial offer shares. The offer size adjustment option may be exercised on or before the Price Determination Date (defined below).

    The offer price for the Hong Kong Public Offering (the “Hong Kong Offer Price”) will be no more than HK$78.00 per Class A ordinary share (the “maximum Hong Kong Offer Price”). The offer price for the International Offering of the Share Offer (the “International Offer Price”) may be set higher than, or the same as, the maximum Hong Kong Offer Price. The Company will set the International Offer Price on or before July 2, 2025, Hong Kong time (the “Price Determination Date”), by taking into consideration, among other factors, the closing price of the ADSs on Nasdaq on the last trading day on or before the Price Determination Date. The final Hong Kong Offer Price will also be set on the Price Determination Date at the lower of the final International Offer Price and the maximum Hong Kong Offer Price.

    The Share Offer is intended to further enhance the Company’s financial flexibility, broaden its shareholder base, improve stock liquidity, and support its healthy and sustainable development. The net proceeds from the Share Offer will be used in investment in technology and related infrastructure, the development of new business initiatives, strategic acquisitions or investment opportunities and for working capital and general corporate purposes.

    Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C. and Morgan Stanley Asia Limited (in alphabetical order) act as the overall coordinators for the Share Offer. Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C., Morgan Stanley Asia Limited (in alphabetical order) and Huatai Financial Holdings (Hong Kong) Limited act as the joint global coordinators for the Share Offer. Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C., Morgan Stanley Asia Limited (in alphabetical order), Huatai Financial Holdings (Hong Kong) Limited, Futu Securities International (Hong Kong) Limited and Tiger Brokers (HK) Global Limited act as joint bookrunners and joint lead managers for the Share Offer.

    The International Offering is being made only by means of a preliminary prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus included in an automatic shelf registration statement on Form F-3 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on December 16, 2022, which automatically became effective upon filing. The registration statement on Form F-3 and the preliminary prospectus supplement are available at the SEC website at: http://www.sec.gov.

    The Share Offer is subject to market and other conditions, and there can be no assurance as to whether or when the Share Offer may be completed, or as to the actual size or terms of the Share Offer. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer or an invitation to buy any securities of the Company, nor shall there be any offer or sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction. This press release does not constitute a prospectus (including as defined under the laws of Hong Kong) and potential investors should read the prospectus of the Company for detailed information about the Company and the proposed Share Offer, before deciding whether or not to invest in the Company. This press release has not been reviewed or approved by the SEC, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange or the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains statements that may constitute “forward-looking” statements which are made pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “likely to,” and similar statements. The Company may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in announcements made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, in its interim and annual reports to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about the Company’s beliefs, plans, and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

    About KANZHUN LIMITED

    KANZHUN LIMITED operates the leading online recruitment platform BOSS Zhipin in China. The Company connects job seekers and enterprise users in an efficient and seamless manner through its highly interactive mobile app, a transformative product that promotes two-way communication, focuses on intelligent recommendations, and creates new scenarios in the online recruiting process. Benefiting from its large and diverse user base, BOSS Zhipin has developed powerful network effects to deliver higher recruitment efficiency and drive rapid expansion.

    For more information, please visit https://ir.zhipin.com.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    KANZHUN LIMITED
    Investor Relations
    Email: ir@kanzhun.com

    In China:

    PIACENTE FINANCIAL COMMUNICATIONS
    Helen Wu
    Tel: +86-10-6508-0677
    Email: kanzhun@tpg-ir.com

    In the United States:

    PIACENTE FINANCIAL COMMUNICATIONS
    Brandi Piacente
    Phone: +1-212-481-2050
    Email: kanzhun@tpg-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: Will the fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel hold? One factor could be crucial to it sticking

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ali Mamouri, Research Fellow, Middle East Studies, Deakin University

    Amir Levy/Getty Images

    After 12 days of war, US President Donald Trump has announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran that would bring to an end the most dramatic, direct conflict between the two nations in decades.

    Israel and Iran both agreed to adhere to the ceasefire, though they said they would respond with force to any breach.

    If the ceasefire holds – a big if – the key question will be whether this signals the start of lasting peace, or merely a brief pause before renewed conflict.

    As contemporary war studies show, peace tends to endure under one of two conditions: either the total defeat of one side, or the establishment of mutual deterrence. This means both parties refrain from aggression because the expected costs of retaliation far outweigh any potential gains.

    What did each side gain?

    The war marked a turning point for Israel in its decades-long confrontation with Iran. For the first time, Israel successfully brought a prolonged battle to Iranian soil, shifting the conflict from confrontations with Iranian-backed proxy militant groups to direct strikes on Iran itself.

    This was made possible largely due to Israel’s success over the past two years in weakening Iran’s regional proxy network, particularly Hezbollah in Lebanon and Shiite militias in Syria.

    Over the past two weeks, Israel has inflicted significant damage on Iran’s military and scientific elite, killing several high-ranking commanders and nuclear scientists. The civilian toll was also high.

    Additionally, Israel achieved a major strategic objective by pulling the United States directly into the conflict. In coordination with Israel, the US launched strikes on three of Iran’s primary nuclear facilities: Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan.

    Despite these gains, Israel did not accomplish all of its stated goals. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had voiced support for regime change, urging Iranians to rise up against Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s government, but the senior leadership in Iran remains intact.

    Additionally, Israel did not fully eliminate Iran’s missile program, as Iran continued striking to the last minute before the ceasefire. And Tehran did not acquiesce to Trump’s pre-war demand to end uranium enrichment.

    Although Iran was caught off-guard by Israel’s attacks — particularly as it was engaged in nuclear negotiations with the US — it responded by launching hundreds of missiles towards Israel.

    While many were intercepted, a significant number penetrated Israeli air defences, causing widespread destruction in major cities, dozens of fatalities and hundreds of injuries.

    Iran demonstrated its capacity to strike back, though Israel succeeded in destroying many of its air defence systems, some ballistic missile assets (including missile launchers) and multiple energy facilities.

    Since the beginning of the assault, Iranian officials have repeatedly called for a halt to resume negotiations. Under intense pressure, Iran realised it would not benefit from a prolonged war of attrition with Israel — especially as both nations faced mounting costs and the risk of depleting their military stockpiles if the war continued.

    As theories of victory suggest, success in war is defined not only by the damage inflicted, but by achieving core strategic goals and weakening the enemy’s will and capacity to resist.

    While Israel claims to have achieved the bulk of its objectives, the extent of the damage to Iran’s nuclear program is not fully known, nor is its capacity to continue enriching uranium.

    Both sides could remain locked in a volatile standoff over Iran’s nuclear program, with the conflict potentially reigniting whenever either side perceives a strategic opportunity.

    Sticking point over Iran’s nuclear program

    Iran faces even greater challenges as it emerges from the war. With a heavy toll on its leadership and nuclear infrastructure, Tehran will likely prioritise rebuilding its deterrence capability.

    That includes acquiring new advanced air defence systems — potentially from China — and restoring key components of its missile and nuclear programs. (Some experts say Iran did not use some of its most powerful missiles to maintain this deterrence.)

    Iranian officials have claimed they safeguarded more than 400 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium before the attacks. This stockpile could theoretically be converted into nine to ten nuclear warheads if further enriched to 90%.

    Trump declared Iran’s nuclear capacity had been “totally obliterated”, whereas Rafael Grossi, the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog chief, said damage to Iran’s facilities was “very significant”.

    However, analysts have argued Iran will still have a depth of technical knowledge accumulated over decades. Depending on the extent of the damage to its underground facilities, Iran could be capable of restoring and even accelerating its program in a relatively short time frame.

    And the chances of reviving negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program appear slimmer than ever.

    What might future deterrence look like?

    The war has fundamentally reshaped how both Iran and Israel perceive deterrence — and how they plan to secure it going forward.

    For Iran, the conflict reinforced the belief that its survival is at stake. With regime change openly discussed during the war, Iran’s leaders appear more convinced than ever that true deterrence requires two key pillars: nuclear weapons capability, and deeper strategic alignment with China and Russia.

    As a result, Iran is expected to move rapidly to restore and advance its nuclear program, potentially moving towards actual weaponisation — a step it had long avoided, officially.

    At the same time, Tehran is likely to accelerate military and economic cooperation with Beijing and Moscow to hedge against isolation. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasised this close engagement with Russia during a visit to Moscow this week, particularly on nuclear matters.

    Israel, meanwhile, sees deterrence as requiring constant vigilance and a credible threat of overwhelming retaliation. In the absence of diplomatic breakthroughs, Israel may adopt a policy of immediate preemptive strikes on Iranian facilities or leadership figures if it detects any new escalation — particularly related to Iran’s nuclear program.

    In this context, the current ceasefire appears fragile. Without comprehensive negotiations that address the core issues — namely, Iran’s nuclear capabilities — the pause in hostilities may prove temporary.

    Mutual deterrence may prevent a more protracted war for now, but the balance remains precarious and could collapse with little warning.

    Ali Mamouri does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Will the fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel hold? One factor could be crucial to it sticking – https://theconversation.com/will-the-fragile-ceasefire-between-iran-and-israel-hold-one-factor-could-be-crucial-to-it-sticking-259669

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: Will the fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel hold? One factor could be crucial to it sticking

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ali Mamouri, Research Fellow, Middle East Studies, Deakin University

    Amir Levy/Getty Images

    After 12 days of war, US President Donald Trump has announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran that would bring to an end the most dramatic, direct conflict between the two nations in decades.

    Israel and Iran both agreed to adhere to the ceasefire, though they said they would respond with force to any breach.

    If the ceasefire holds – a big if – the key question will be whether this signals the start of lasting peace, or merely a brief pause before renewed conflict.

    As contemporary war studies show, peace tends to endure under one of two conditions: either the total defeat of one side, or the establishment of mutual deterrence. This means both parties refrain from aggression because the expected costs of retaliation far outweigh any potential gains.

    What did each side gain?

    The war marked a turning point for Israel in its decades-long confrontation with Iran. For the first time, Israel successfully brought a prolonged battle to Iranian soil, shifting the conflict from confrontations with Iranian-backed proxy militant groups to direct strikes on Iran itself.

    This was made possible largely due to Israel’s success over the past two years in weakening Iran’s regional proxy network, particularly Hezbollah in Lebanon and Shiite militias in Syria.

    Over the past two weeks, Israel has inflicted significant damage on Iran’s military and scientific elite, killing several high-ranking commanders and nuclear scientists. The civilian toll was also high.

    Additionally, Israel achieved a major strategic objective by pulling the United States directly into the conflict. In coordination with Israel, the US launched strikes on three of Iran’s primary nuclear facilities: Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan.

    Despite these gains, Israel did not accomplish all of its stated goals. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had voiced support for regime change, urging Iranians to rise up against Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s government, but the senior leadership in Iran remains intact.

    Additionally, Israel did not fully eliminate Iran’s missile program, as Iran continued striking to the last minute before the ceasefire. And Tehran did not acquiesce to Trump’s pre-war demand to end uranium enrichment.

    Although Iran was caught off-guard by Israel’s attacks — particularly as it was engaged in nuclear negotiations with the US — it responded by launching hundreds of missiles towards Israel.

    While many were intercepted, a significant number penetrated Israeli air defences, causing widespread destruction in major cities, dozens of fatalities and hundreds of injuries.

    Iran demonstrated its capacity to strike back, though Israel succeeded in destroying many of its air defence systems, some ballistic missile assets (including missile launchers) and multiple energy facilities.

    Since the beginning of the assault, Iranian officials have repeatedly called for a halt to resume negotiations. Under intense pressure, Iran realised it would not benefit from a prolonged war of attrition with Israel — especially as both nations faced mounting costs and the risk of depleting their military stockpiles if the war continued.

    As theories of victory suggest, success in war is defined not only by the damage inflicted, but by achieving core strategic goals and weakening the enemy’s will and capacity to resist.

    While Israel claims to have achieved the bulk of its objectives, the extent of the damage to Iran’s nuclear program is not fully known, nor is its capacity to continue enriching uranium.

    Both sides could remain locked in a volatile standoff over Iran’s nuclear program, with the conflict potentially reigniting whenever either side perceives a strategic opportunity.

    Sticking point over Iran’s nuclear program

    Iran faces even greater challenges as it emerges from the war. With a heavy toll on its leadership and nuclear infrastructure, Tehran will likely prioritise rebuilding its deterrence capability.

    That includes acquiring new advanced air defence systems — potentially from China — and restoring key components of its missile and nuclear programs. (Some experts say Iran did not use some of its most powerful missiles to maintain this deterrence.)

    Iranian officials have claimed they safeguarded more than 400 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium before the attacks. This stockpile could theoretically be converted into nine to ten nuclear warheads if further enriched to 90%.

    Trump declared Iran’s nuclear capacity had been “totally obliterated”, whereas Rafael Grossi, the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog chief, said damage to Iran’s facilities was “very significant”.

    However, analysts have argued Iran will still have a depth of technical knowledge accumulated over decades. Depending on the extent of the damage to its underground facilities, Iran could be capable of restoring and even accelerating its program in a relatively short time frame.

    And the chances of reviving negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program appear slimmer than ever.

    What might future deterrence look like?

    The war has fundamentally reshaped how both Iran and Israel perceive deterrence — and how they plan to secure it going forward.

    For Iran, the conflict reinforced the belief that its survival is at stake. With regime change openly discussed during the war, Iran’s leaders appear more convinced than ever that true deterrence requires two key pillars: nuclear weapons capability, and deeper strategic alignment with China and Russia.

    As a result, Iran is expected to move rapidly to restore and advance its nuclear program, potentially moving towards actual weaponisation — a step it had long avoided, officially.

    At the same time, Tehran is likely to accelerate military and economic cooperation with Beijing and Moscow to hedge against isolation. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasised this close engagement with Russia during a visit to Moscow this week, particularly on nuclear matters.

    Israel, meanwhile, sees deterrence as requiring constant vigilance and a credible threat of overwhelming retaliation. In the absence of diplomatic breakthroughs, Israel may adopt a policy of immediate preemptive strikes on Iranian facilities or leadership figures if it detects any new escalation — particularly related to Iran’s nuclear program.

    In this context, the current ceasefire appears fragile. Without comprehensive negotiations that address the core issues — namely, Iran’s nuclear capabilities — the pause in hostilities may prove temporary.

    Mutual deterrence may prevent a more protracted war for now, but the balance remains precarious and could collapse with little warning.

    Ali Mamouri does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Will the fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel hold? One factor could be crucial to it sticking – https://theconversation.com/will-the-fragile-ceasefire-between-iran-and-israel-hold-one-factor-could-be-crucial-to-it-sticking-259669

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: NHS to offer at-home cervical cancer screening – an expert explains what you need to know

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dipa Kamdar, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice, Kingston University

    Iryna Inshyna/Shutterstock

    Nearly one in three women and other people with a cervix in the UK don’t attend their cervical screening when invited. Yet this quick, routine test helps prevent up to 70% of cervical cancer deaths by detecting problems early — and if everyone took part, that figure could rise to over 80%.

    Since December 2019, England has adopted a more accurate screening method that tests first for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus responsible for nearly all cervical cancers, rather than looking immediately for abnormal cervical cells. Recommended by the UK National Screening Committee, this approach allows for longer intervals between tests for those who receive a negative HPV result, typically every five years instead of every three.

    From July 1 2025, this updated screening schedule will apply to women aged 25 to 49 who test negative for high-risk HPV. Research shows that those who test negative are at very low risk of developing cervical cancer in the following decade.

    Since the announcement, some women have raised concerns online, often shaped by personal experience. One woman posted on Facebook:

    “I had a positive smear when I was younger. It had been negative three years earlier… Imagine if I’d had to wait two more years before finding out I was positive.”

    Others have echoed these fears, calling not only for shorter screening intervals but for earlier testing ages. With around 3,200 people diagnosed with cervical cancer in the UK each year, some wonder whether the change is rooted in science — or in cost-cutting.

    What is cervical screening?

    Cervical screening, previously called a smear test, is a simple, routine way to help prevent cervical cancer. It’s offered to women, some trans men and non-binary people with a cervix. The test checks the cervix (the opening to the womb) for early signs of change that could lead to cancer if left untreated.

    It’s not a test for cancer itself. Instead, it looks for HPV, a common virus that can cause abnormal cell changes. If high-risk HPV is found, the sample is then checked for abnormal cells, which can be treated before they develop into cancer. If no HPV is detected, the risk is extremely low.

    Why is the screening interval changing?

    Under the new system, those who test negative for high-risk HPV will be screened every five years, rather than every three. This brings younger people in line with those aged 50 to 64, who already follow a five-year schedule.

    Anyone who tests positive for HPV will continue to receive annual follow-ups.

    This shift is supported by strong scientific evidence. HPV screening is more accurate than the previous method, which only looked for abnormal cells. Studies show that people who test negative for high-risk HPV are at very low risk of cervical cancer for many years — making five-year intervals safe and effective.

    The HPV vaccine

    The introduction of the HPV vaccine in the UK has significantly reduced HPV infections, the leading cause of cervical cancer. Research shows the vaccine can prevent up to 90% of cases, and the latest version, introduced in 2021, provides even broader protection.

    Combined with screening, the vaccine has contributed to a 25% drop in cervical cancer rates since the early 1990s.

    Self-sampling kits

    Despite these advances, many people still miss their screening appointments due to embarrassment, discomfort, time constraints or cultural concerns. Starting in January 2026, NHS England will offer at-home cervical screening kits to women and others with a cervix who rarely or never attend routine screening.

    With more than five million women not currently up to date, the scheme aims to boost participation — especially among underscreened groups, including younger people, ethnic minorities, disabled people and LGBT+ people. Trials suggest self-sampling could raise uptake to 77% within three years, nearing the NHS target of 80%.

    The kits, sent in discreet packaging with pre-paid return postage, allow people aged 25 to 64 to take a simple vaginal swab at home. The sample is tested for HPV, and if high-risk strains are found, the patient is invited for further tests.

    Is the new schedule safe?

    For most people, yes. The longer interval means fewer appointments for those at low risk, without compromising early detection for those who need it. The test itself usually causes only mild discomfort or pressure, and light spotting can occur afterwards. If you’re concerned, your doctor or nurse can help.

    While some worry that five years is too long to wait, it’s important to remember that HPV testing is highly accurate – and annual follow-ups remain in place for those who need closer monitoring.

    Even if you’re not due for screening, it’s vital to know the signs of cervical cancer, including:

    • Unusual vaginal bleeding (after sex, between periods or after menopause)

    • Changes in vaginal discharge

    • Pain during sex

    • Pain in the lower back or pelvis

    If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait for your next screening – contact your GP straight away.

    Cervical screening saves lives. The shift to five-year intervals is backed by science and designed to keep people safe while reducing unnecessary appointments. If you’re invited, go – even if you feel fine. And if something doesn’t feel right, speak up.

    The aim is simple: catch problems early, prevent cancer, and protect lives.

    Dipa Kamdar does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. NHS to offer at-home cervical cancer screening – an expert explains what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/nhs-to-offer-at-home-cervical-cancer-screening-an-expert-explains-what-you-need-to-know-259299

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: NHS to offer at-home cervical cancer screening – an expert explains what you need to know

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dipa Kamdar, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice, Kingston University

    Iryna Inshyna/Shutterstock

    Nearly one in three women and other people with a cervix in the UK don’t attend their cervical screening when invited. Yet this quick, routine test helps prevent up to 70% of cervical cancer deaths by detecting problems early — and if everyone took part, that figure could rise to over 80%.

    Since December 2019, England has adopted a more accurate screening method that tests first for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus responsible for nearly all cervical cancers, rather than looking immediately for abnormal cervical cells. Recommended by the UK National Screening Committee, this approach allows for longer intervals between tests for those who receive a negative HPV result, typically every five years instead of every three.

    From July 1 2025, this updated screening schedule will apply to women aged 25 to 49 who test negative for high-risk HPV. Research shows that those who test negative are at very low risk of developing cervical cancer in the following decade.

    Since the announcement, some women have raised concerns online, often shaped by personal experience. One woman posted on Facebook:

    “I had a positive smear when I was younger. It had been negative three years earlier… Imagine if I’d had to wait two more years before finding out I was positive.”

    Others have echoed these fears, calling not only for shorter screening intervals but for earlier testing ages. With around 3,200 people diagnosed with cervical cancer in the UK each year, some wonder whether the change is rooted in science — or in cost-cutting.

    What is cervical screening?

    Cervical screening, previously called a smear test, is a simple, routine way to help prevent cervical cancer. It’s offered to women, some trans men and non-binary people with a cervix. The test checks the cervix (the opening to the womb) for early signs of change that could lead to cancer if left untreated.

    It’s not a test for cancer itself. Instead, it looks for HPV, a common virus that can cause abnormal cell changes. If high-risk HPV is found, the sample is then checked for abnormal cells, which can be treated before they develop into cancer. If no HPV is detected, the risk is extremely low.

    Why is the screening interval changing?

    Under the new system, those who test negative for high-risk HPV will be screened every five years, rather than every three. This brings younger people in line with those aged 50 to 64, who already follow a five-year schedule.

    Anyone who tests positive for HPV will continue to receive annual follow-ups.

    This shift is supported by strong scientific evidence. HPV screening is more accurate than the previous method, which only looked for abnormal cells. Studies show that people who test negative for high-risk HPV are at very low risk of cervical cancer for many years — making five-year intervals safe and effective.

    The HPV vaccine

    The introduction of the HPV vaccine in the UK has significantly reduced HPV infections, the leading cause of cervical cancer. Research shows the vaccine can prevent up to 90% of cases, and the latest version, introduced in 2021, provides even broader protection.

    Combined with screening, the vaccine has contributed to a 25% drop in cervical cancer rates since the early 1990s.

    Self-sampling kits

    Despite these advances, many people still miss their screening appointments due to embarrassment, discomfort, time constraints or cultural concerns. Starting in January 2026, NHS England will offer at-home cervical screening kits to women and others with a cervix who rarely or never attend routine screening.

    With more than five million women not currently up to date, the scheme aims to boost participation — especially among underscreened groups, including younger people, ethnic minorities, disabled people and LGBT+ people. Trials suggest self-sampling could raise uptake to 77% within three years, nearing the NHS target of 80%.

    The kits, sent in discreet packaging with pre-paid return postage, allow people aged 25 to 64 to take a simple vaginal swab at home. The sample is tested for HPV, and if high-risk strains are found, the patient is invited for further tests.

    Is the new schedule safe?

    For most people, yes. The longer interval means fewer appointments for those at low risk, without compromising early detection for those who need it. The test itself usually causes only mild discomfort or pressure, and light spotting can occur afterwards. If you’re concerned, your doctor or nurse can help.

    While some worry that five years is too long to wait, it’s important to remember that HPV testing is highly accurate – and annual follow-ups remain in place for those who need closer monitoring.

    Even if you’re not due for screening, it’s vital to know the signs of cervical cancer, including:

    • Unusual vaginal bleeding (after sex, between periods or after menopause)

    • Changes in vaginal discharge

    • Pain during sex

    • Pain in the lower back or pelvis

    If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait for your next screening – contact your GP straight away.

    Cervical screening saves lives. The shift to five-year intervals is backed by science and designed to keep people safe while reducing unnecessary appointments. If you’re invited, go – even if you feel fine. And if something doesn’t feel right, speak up.

    The aim is simple: catch problems early, prevent cancer, and protect lives.

    Dipa Kamdar does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. NHS to offer at-home cervical cancer screening – an expert explains what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/nhs-to-offer-at-home-cervical-cancer-screening-an-expert-explains-what-you-need-to-know-259299

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Mozambique after 50 years of independence: what’s there to celebrate?

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Luca Bussotti, Professor at the PhD Course in Peace, Democracy, Social Movements and Human Development, Universidade Técnica de Moçambique (UDM)

    Mozambique’s government, led by the Frelimo party, has long been planning celebrations for 2025. It is 50 years since independence, won after an anti-colonial war against Portugal led by the same party.

    Something has gone wrong, however, especially in the past two years.

    Since the country’s popular rapper Azagaia died in March 2023 and peaceful processions in his memory escalated into violent clashes with the police, space has opened up for the establishment of a social movement of young people. This has since turned into a political movement, taking on the name “Povo no Poder” (“People in Power”). At its head is a brilliant politician, Venâncio Mondlane.

    Povo no Poder was also the name of Azagaia’s hit song, which had been the soundtrack to 2008 protests against rising energy costs.

    Azagaia’s POVO NO PODER.

    The demonstrations in March 2023 marked a turning point for Mozambique. It was as if all the energy and indignation about a highly corrupt and increasingly authoritarian country that Azagaia had expressed through his songs had been passed on to previously fearful young people. Now they dared to challenge the police and army in the open and without any weapons.

    In late 2024 Mozambicans took to the streets to protest against elections they claimed were rigged. Over 300 people were killed in demonstrations.

    Efforts have been made to redress this serious wound. In preparation for the 50 years of independence Frelimo has been recalling key places and symbols in the liberation war, harking back to a time when they represented justice.

    But attempts to evoke past glory and ideals are not resonating with ordinary Mozambicans. The mood in the country is subdued.

    As a specialist in the politics of lusophone Africa, in particular Mozambique, based on years of research, I find it difficult to envision a future of peace and prosperity for the next 50 years. There are divisive elements at play across the country. The post-election crisis has its roots in widespread discontent. Mozambicans are also rising against the cost of living crisis.

    Attempts to rekindle the flame

    The newly elected president, Daniel Chapo, opened the 50th anniversary celebrations on 7 April in Nangade, in Cabo Delgado province. This is one of the places where the armed struggle against the Portuguese began.

    National symbolism has focused on the torch of national unity, travelling the length and breadth of Mozambique to arrive in Maputo at the historic Machava Stadium on 25 June, Independence Day, for a concluding public ceremony.

    Not everyone has shared this attempt to patch up a country torn both politically and socio-economically.

    Too much has been lost in the intervening decades.

    In the initial period of independence Frelimo adopted socialist policies and attempted to promote free and universal social services, primarily healthcare and education. Back then, the ruling class, starting with the country’s first president, Samora Machel, didn’t enjoy any particular economic privileges.

    The reality today is quite different.

    Journalist and social activist Tomás Vieira Mário, one of the main critics of the current regime, has traced the stages of independent Mozambique’s history. He’s pointed out the contradiction between the initial thrust by many Mozambican common people towards the liberation movement and subsequent, authoritarian developments.

    He concluded in an article that all that remained to unite Mozambicans was the

    mere sharing of the same territorial space. And a lot of blood.

    He was referring to the long war against Renamo from 1976 to 1992 and again from 2013 to 2019, ethnic questions that have never been resolved, and finally the armed attacks in Cabo Delgado of jihadist and ethnic nature.

    For his part, renowned philosopher Severino Ngoenha has also underscored the importance of a justice system that is fair and inclusive, and not at the service of one political party.

    The new opposition is coming not from Renamo or Frelimo but from the streets. Popular protests have taken place this year even in areas once considered Frelimo strongholds. In Gaza province, southern Mozambique, for example, there have been outbreaks of violence, demonstrating that the bipolar system that emerged from the 1992 peace accord now seems incapable of responding to the new demands of Mozambican society.

    On the political level, efforts are being made to overcome the post-electoral crisis and its wounds through the establishment of an Inclusive Dialogue Commission. This is being chaired by jurist Edson Macuacua, who is a vice-minister in the Frelimo government.

    The commission is made up of representatives from all major parties as well as three members of civil society. The eventual aim is radical reform of the state.

    But there are serious doubts about the success of this ambitious project which I believe are legitimate. The big question, beyond any institutional and electoral reforms, is whether the Frelimo party-state will be able to change its political culture in the next elections, accepting any negative results and, therefore, the loss of power.

    Efforts are being made on all fronts to obstruct Mondlane from gaining a political foothold. Mondlane wants to start a new party called the Anamalala (meaning “It will end”, or “Stop!”).

    The name has been rejected by the Ministry of Justice because a Mozambican party cannot be named using a local language – in this case Emakhuwa.

    On the judicial level, several trials are underway against Mondlane and his closest associates, which could result in convictions for inciting protesters to destroy public infrastructure during the post-election demonstrations. If convicted, he would be declared ineligible to run in elections scheduled for 2029.

    Inequality and disparities

    Mozambique is among the six most unequal countries in the world and one of the poorest. According to World Bank data, 500,000 young people enter the labour market each year, with an average absorption capacity of about 25,000 in the formal sector, and 36% of young people unemployed in Maputo.

    Meanwhile, the number of very rich is growing. Mozambique ranks 16th among African countries in terms of the number of millionaires, with 18% growth over the past 10 years.

    This inequality puts national unity at risk.

    The economic disparities between the capital, Maputo, and the rest of the country are increasingly evident.

    Entire ethnic groups and territories are marginalised. Socio-economic and cultural divisions have been replicated in the case of discoveries of large natural resources in the north of the country. Large investments have been made in gas (Total and ENI-Exxon) and rubies in Cabo Delgado.

    A new threat has arisen too: extremism. Islamist-motivated attacks have been occurring in Cabo Delgado since 2017. There was an attack recently on a military base in Macomia.

    Efforts to encourage unity are coming from many quarters: from the promotion of inclusive dialogue; from a civic consciousness that has grown since 2023-2024; and from the country’s economic potential.

    But social inequality remains. So do doubts about Frelimo’s willingness to make Mozambique a country where the winner governs without manipulating election results.

    Luca Bussotti does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Mozambique after 50 years of independence: what’s there to celebrate? – https://theconversation.com/mozambique-after-50-years-of-independence-whats-there-to-celebrate-259528

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Mozambique after 50 years of independence: what’s there to celebrate?

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Luca Bussotti, Professor at the PhD Course in Peace, Democracy, Social Movements and Human Development, Universidade Técnica de Moçambique (UDM)

    Mozambique’s government, led by the Frelimo party, has long been planning celebrations for 2025. It is 50 years since independence, won after an anti-colonial war against Portugal led by the same party.

    Something has gone wrong, however, especially in the past two years.

    Since the country’s popular rapper Azagaia died in March 2023 and peaceful processions in his memory escalated into violent clashes with the police, space has opened up for the establishment of a social movement of young people. This has since turned into a political movement, taking on the name “Povo no Poder” (“People in Power”). At its head is a brilliant politician, Venâncio Mondlane.

    Povo no Poder was also the name of Azagaia’s hit song, which had been the soundtrack to 2008 protests against rising energy costs.

    Azagaia’s POVO NO PODER.

    The demonstrations in March 2023 marked a turning point for Mozambique. It was as if all the energy and indignation about a highly corrupt and increasingly authoritarian country that Azagaia had expressed through his songs had been passed on to previously fearful young people. Now they dared to challenge the police and army in the open and without any weapons.

    In late 2024 Mozambicans took to the streets to protest against elections they claimed were rigged. Over 300 people were killed in demonstrations.

    Efforts have been made to redress this serious wound. In preparation for the 50 years of independence Frelimo has been recalling key places and symbols in the liberation war, harking back to a time when they represented justice.

    But attempts to evoke past glory and ideals are not resonating with ordinary Mozambicans. The mood in the country is subdued.

    As a specialist in the politics of lusophone Africa, in particular Mozambique, based on years of research, I find it difficult to envision a future of peace and prosperity for the next 50 years. There are divisive elements at play across the country. The post-election crisis has its roots in widespread discontent. Mozambicans are also rising against the cost of living crisis.

    Attempts to rekindle the flame

    The newly elected president, Daniel Chapo, opened the 50th anniversary celebrations on 7 April in Nangade, in Cabo Delgado province. This is one of the places where the armed struggle against the Portuguese began.

    National symbolism has focused on the torch of national unity, travelling the length and breadth of Mozambique to arrive in Maputo at the historic Machava Stadium on 25 June, Independence Day, for a concluding public ceremony.

    Not everyone has shared this attempt to patch up a country torn both politically and socio-economically.

    Too much has been lost in the intervening decades.

    In the initial period of independence Frelimo adopted socialist policies and attempted to promote free and universal social services, primarily healthcare and education. Back then, the ruling class, starting with the country’s first president, Samora Machel, didn’t enjoy any particular economic privileges.

    The reality today is quite different.

    Journalist and social activist Tomás Vieira Mário, one of the main critics of the current regime, has traced the stages of independent Mozambique’s history. He’s pointed out the contradiction between the initial thrust by many Mozambican common people towards the liberation movement and subsequent, authoritarian developments.

    He concluded in an article that all that remained to unite Mozambicans was the

    mere sharing of the same territorial space. And a lot of blood.

    He was referring to the long war against Renamo from 1976 to 1992 and again from 2013 to 2019, ethnic questions that have never been resolved, and finally the armed attacks in Cabo Delgado of jihadist and ethnic nature.

    For his part, renowned philosopher Severino Ngoenha has also underscored the importance of a justice system that is fair and inclusive, and not at the service of one political party.

    The new opposition is coming not from Renamo or Frelimo but from the streets. Popular protests have taken place this year even in areas once considered Frelimo strongholds. In Gaza province, southern Mozambique, for example, there have been outbreaks of violence, demonstrating that the bipolar system that emerged from the 1992 peace accord now seems incapable of responding to the new demands of Mozambican society.

    On the political level, efforts are being made to overcome the post-electoral crisis and its wounds through the establishment of an Inclusive Dialogue Commission. This is being chaired by jurist Edson Macuacua, who is a vice-minister in the Frelimo government.

    The commission is made up of representatives from all major parties as well as three members of civil society. The eventual aim is radical reform of the state.

    But there are serious doubts about the success of this ambitious project which I believe are legitimate. The big question, beyond any institutional and electoral reforms, is whether the Frelimo party-state will be able to change its political culture in the next elections, accepting any negative results and, therefore, the loss of power.

    Efforts are being made on all fronts to obstruct Mondlane from gaining a political foothold. Mondlane wants to start a new party called the Anamalala (meaning “It will end”, or “Stop!”).

    The name has been rejected by the Ministry of Justice because a Mozambican party cannot be named using a local language – in this case Emakhuwa.

    On the judicial level, several trials are underway against Mondlane and his closest associates, which could result in convictions for inciting protesters to destroy public infrastructure during the post-election demonstrations. If convicted, he would be declared ineligible to run in elections scheduled for 2029.

    Inequality and disparities

    Mozambique is among the six most unequal countries in the world and one of the poorest. According to World Bank data, 500,000 young people enter the labour market each year, with an average absorption capacity of about 25,000 in the formal sector, and 36% of young people unemployed in Maputo.

    Meanwhile, the number of very rich is growing. Mozambique ranks 16th among African countries in terms of the number of millionaires, with 18% growth over the past 10 years.

    This inequality puts national unity at risk.

    The economic disparities between the capital, Maputo, and the rest of the country are increasingly evident.

    Entire ethnic groups and territories are marginalised. Socio-economic and cultural divisions have been replicated in the case of discoveries of large natural resources in the north of the country. Large investments have been made in gas (Total and ENI-Exxon) and rubies in Cabo Delgado.

    A new threat has arisen too: extremism. Islamist-motivated attacks have been occurring in Cabo Delgado since 2017. There was an attack recently on a military base in Macomia.

    Efforts to encourage unity are coming from many quarters: from the promotion of inclusive dialogue; from a civic consciousness that has grown since 2023-2024; and from the country’s economic potential.

    But social inequality remains. So do doubts about Frelimo’s willingness to make Mozambique a country where the winner governs without manipulating election results.

    Luca Bussotti does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Mozambique after 50 years of independence: what’s there to celebrate? – https://theconversation.com/mozambique-after-50-years-of-independence-whats-there-to-celebrate-259528

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mozambique after 50 years of independence: what’s there to celebrate?

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Luca Bussotti, Professor at the PhD Course in Peace, Democracy, Social Movements and Human Development, Universidade Técnica de Moçambique (UDM)

    Mozambique’s government, led by the Frelimo party, has long been planning celebrations for 2025. It is 50 years since independence, won after an anti-colonial war against Portugal led by the same party.

    Something has gone wrong, however, especially in the past two years.

    Since the country’s popular rapper Azagaia died in March 2023 and peaceful processions in his memory escalated into violent clashes with the police, space has opened up for the establishment of a social movement of young people. This has since turned into a political movement, taking on the name “Povo no Poder” (“People in Power”). At its head is a brilliant politician, Venâncio Mondlane.

    Povo no Poder was also the name of Azagaia’s hit song, which had been the soundtrack to 2008 protests against rising energy costs.

    Azagaia’s POVO NO PODER.

    The demonstrations in March 2023 marked a turning point for Mozambique. It was as if all the energy and indignation about a highly corrupt and increasingly authoritarian country that Azagaia had expressed through his songs had been passed on to previously fearful young people. Now they dared to challenge the police and army in the open and without any weapons.

    In late 2024 Mozambicans took to the streets to protest against elections they claimed were rigged. Over 300 people were killed in demonstrations.

    Efforts have been made to redress this serious wound. In preparation for the 50 years of independence Frelimo has been recalling key places and symbols in the liberation war, harking back to a time when they represented justice.

    But attempts to evoke past glory and ideals are not resonating with ordinary Mozambicans. The mood in the country is subdued.

    As a specialist in the politics of lusophone Africa, in particular Mozambique, based on years of research, I find it difficult to envision a future of peace and prosperity for the next 50 years. There are divisive elements at play across the country. The post-election crisis has its roots in widespread discontent. Mozambicans are also rising against the cost of living crisis.

    Attempts to rekindle the flame

    The newly elected president, Daniel Chapo, opened the 50th anniversary celebrations on 7 April in Nangade, in Cabo Delgado province. This is one of the places where the armed struggle against the Portuguese began.

    National symbolism has focused on the torch of national unity, travelling the length and breadth of Mozambique to arrive in Maputo at the historic Machava Stadium on 25 June, Independence Day, for a concluding public ceremony.

    Not everyone has shared this attempt to patch up a country torn both politically and socio-economically.

    Too much has been lost in the intervening decades.

    In the initial period of independence Frelimo adopted socialist policies and attempted to promote free and universal social services, primarily healthcare and education. Back then, the ruling class, starting with the country’s first president, Samora Machel, didn’t enjoy any particular economic privileges.

    The reality today is quite different.

    Journalist and social activist Tomás Vieira Mário, one of the main critics of the current regime, has traced the stages of independent Mozambique’s history. He’s pointed out the contradiction between the initial thrust by many Mozambican common people towards the liberation movement and subsequent, authoritarian developments.

    He concluded in an article that all that remained to unite Mozambicans was the

    mere sharing of the same territorial space. And a lot of blood.

    He was referring to the long war against Renamo from 1976 to 1992 and again from 2013 to 2019, ethnic questions that have never been resolved, and finally the armed attacks in Cabo Delgado of jihadist and ethnic nature.

    For his part, renowned philosopher Severino Ngoenha has also underscored the importance of a justice system that is fair and inclusive, and not at the service of one political party.

    The new opposition is coming not from Renamo or Frelimo but from the streets. Popular protests have taken place this year even in areas once considered Frelimo strongholds. In Gaza province, southern Mozambique, for example, there have been outbreaks of violence, demonstrating that the bipolar system that emerged from the 1992 peace accord now seems incapable of responding to the new demands of Mozambican society.

    On the political level, efforts are being made to overcome the post-electoral crisis and its wounds through the establishment of an Inclusive Dialogue Commission. This is being chaired by jurist Edson Macuacua, who is a vice-minister in the Frelimo government.

    The commission is made up of representatives from all major parties as well as three members of civil society. The eventual aim is radical reform of the state.

    But there are serious doubts about the success of this ambitious project which I believe are legitimate. The big question, beyond any institutional and electoral reforms, is whether the Frelimo party-state will be able to change its political culture in the next elections, accepting any negative results and, therefore, the loss of power.

    Efforts are being made on all fronts to obstruct Mondlane from gaining a political foothold. Mondlane wants to start a new party called the Anamalala (meaning “It will end”, or “Stop!”).

    The name has been rejected by the Ministry of Justice because a Mozambican party cannot be named using a local language – in this case Emakhuwa.

    On the judicial level, several trials are underway against Mondlane and his closest associates, which could result in convictions for inciting protesters to destroy public infrastructure during the post-election demonstrations. If convicted, he would be declared ineligible to run in elections scheduled for 2029.

    Inequality and disparities

    Mozambique is among the six most unequal countries in the world and one of the poorest. According to World Bank data, 500,000 young people enter the labour market each year, with an average absorption capacity of about 25,000 in the formal sector, and 36% of young people unemployed in Maputo.

    Meanwhile, the number of very rich is growing. Mozambique ranks 16th among African countries in terms of the number of millionaires, with 18% growth over the past 10 years.

    This inequality puts national unity at risk.

    The economic disparities between the capital, Maputo, and the rest of the country are increasingly evident.

    Entire ethnic groups and territories are marginalised. Socio-economic and cultural divisions have been replicated in the case of discoveries of large natural resources in the north of the country. Large investments have been made in gas (Total and ENI-Exxon) and rubies in Cabo Delgado.

    A new threat has arisen too: extremism. Islamist-motivated attacks have been occurring in Cabo Delgado since 2017. There was an attack recently on a military base in Macomia.

    Efforts to encourage unity are coming from many quarters: from the promotion of inclusive dialogue; from a civic consciousness that has grown since 2023-2024; and from the country’s economic potential.

    But social inequality remains. So do doubts about Frelimo’s willingness to make Mozambique a country where the winner governs without manipulating election results.

    – Mozambique after 50 years of independence: what’s there to celebrate?
    – https://theconversation.com/mozambique-after-50-years-of-independence-whats-there-to-celebrate-259528

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Western Cape, Northern Cape residents urged to be cautious amid cold front

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Western Cape, Northern Cape residents urged to be cautious amid cold front

    Communities have been urged by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, to be cautious as an intense cold front is anticipated to impact parts of the Western Cape and Northern Cape from Wednesday to Friday.

    According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), a cold front will make landfall tomorrow over the south-western regions of the country, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, snow, and extremely rough sea conditions.

    The weather service has warned the public about the potential impact of heavy rainfall expected in the western parts of the Western Cape, especially in low-lying and poorly drained areas, saying this could result in localised flooding from Wednesday into Thursday.

    Forecasters have also predicted that roads may become wet and slippery, significantly increasing the risk of road accidents. The public, especially motorists, are urged to drive with caution, reduce speed, and avoid flooded roads.

    The SAWS said strong, gusty winds over the interior may cause localised structural damage and uproot trees, posing risks to property and lives.

    “As a government, we are deeply concerned about the possible impact of this approaching cold front. We call on all residents, especially those in vulnerable areas, to remain alert, follow official weather updates, and take precautionary steps to protect their lives and property,” Hlabisa said.

    The Minister urged municipalities, provincial disaster management centres, and all stakeholders in the affected provinces to remain vigilant, activate contingency plans, and ensure rapid response measures are implemented to assist communities in need.

    Cold to icy conditions are expected, with possible snowfall over the western mountain ranges of the Western Cape, extending into the south-western interior of the Northern Cape.

    According to the department, severe weather is anticipated to affect the maritime sector. 

    Gale-force winds and rough seas with wave heights of 5.5 to 7.5 metres are expected along the Northern Cape and Western Cape coastlines.

    “This could cause major disruptions to the fishing and port operations and increase the risk of vessels capsizing and accidents at sea.” 

    Coastal residents, fishers, and beachgoers are strongly advised to stay away from the shoreline and follow maritime safety warnings.

    As a cold front moves eastward, the Eastern Cape is expected to feel its effects on Thursday, 26 June, with strong and damaging winds spreading across much of the province, which is already prone to weather-related incidents.

    By Friday, 27 June, the department warned that cold and windy conditions will extend into parts of the interior of the eastern provinces, with daytime temperatures dropping significantly. – SAnews.gov.za

    Gabisile
    Tue, 06/24/2025 – 10:34

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Operation Shanela nets 15 372

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Operation Shanela nets 15 372

    Over 15 000 individuals have been arrested in the ongoing Operation Shanela operation, said the South African Police Service (SAPS).

    According to the SAPS, these successes stem from proactive policing tactics, including high-visibility patrols, roadblocks, stop-and-search initiatives and intelligence-led suspect tracing.

    From 16 -22 June 2025, 15 372 arrests were made.

    Among those arrested were 2,400 wanted individuals, linked to serious and violent crimes (murder, attempted murder, rape, robbery), while a further 159 suspects were arrested for murder (62 in Gauteng and 43 in the Western Cape).

    Other key arrests include: 
    •    86 for attempted murder
    •    100 for rape, with Gauteng leading at 25 arrests
    •    1173 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH)
    •    235 identified drug dealers
    •    2602 for drug possession, most in the Western Cape (1460)
    •    67 for illegal firearm possession, with 22 from KwaZulu-Natal
    •    14 for human trafficking
    •    1328 illegal foreign nationals detained
    •    1140 drivers arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs- KwaZulu-Natal (411), Mpumalanga (225), Western Cape (195) and Gauteng (144)

    Police also recovered and confiscated 102 firearms, 1,278 rounds of ammunition and 64 hijacked or stolen vehicles.

    In the North West, two suspects were arrested for the fatal shooting of an elderly couple in Rustenburg where a firearm was recovered. Additionally, police intercepted two vehicles on the N1 near Makhado carrying dagga valued at R3 million.

    In KwaZulu-Natal, a 49-year-old man arrested in Adams Mission for illegal possession of two AK-47s and a pistol. Ammunition was also seized.

    Meanwhile in Gauteng police apprehended three Mozambican nationals in Kingsway for cross-border motorcycle theft. Police also found dismantled motorcycle parts found prepared for smuggling.

    In the Eastern Cape two Lesotho nationals were arrested for human trafficking where 10 children were rescued in Matatiele.

    “SAPS remains committed to relentless, multidisciplinary crime prevention through Operation Shanela and related initiatives. The National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, applauded the dedication of all police officers and partners who collaborated with the police,” the South African Police Service said in a statement on Monday. – SAnews.gov.za

    Edwin
    Tue, 06/24/2025 – 10:36

    MIL OSI Africa –

    June 24, 2025
←Previous Page
1 … 1,150 1,151 1,152 1,153 1,154 … 5,934
Next Page→
NewzIntel.com

NewzIntel.com

MIL Open Source Intelligence

  • Blog
  • About
  • FAQs
  • Authors
  • Events
  • Shop
  • Patterns
  • Themes

Twenty Twenty-Five

Designed with WordPress