NewzIntel.com

Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New report calculates NHS outdoor spaces save the NHS £82 million per year A report by researchers at the University of Aberdeen, commissioned by Public Health Scotland and SEFARI Gateway, calculates for the first time, the economic value of outdoor spaces in NHS Scotland sites.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    A report by researchers at the University of Aberdeen, commissioned by Public Health Scotland and SEFARI Gateway, calculates for the first time, the economic value of outdoor spaces in NHS Scotland sites.
    Published today by SEFARI Gateway,this is the first study in the world to look at the value of outdoor green spaces within hospitals, health centres and GP surgeries used by staff, patients and their families, and the public for walking and relaxing.
    The team asked people about their visits and how they valued different types of outdoor spaces. They then followed Office for National Statistics guidelines and used bespoke economic analysis to calculate the value in monetary terms.
    The survey of 2,449 adults across all fourteen regional NHS Scotland health boards found that people spend roughly 87 million hours a year in NHS outdoor spaces.
    The health benefits from these visits is valued at around £82 million a year, which is what it would cost the NHS to provide the same benefits through healthcare services.
    The authors say that in addition to supporting physical and mental health, outdoor spaces at NHS Scotland sites ‘offer value simply by being pleasant and accessible places for people to enjoy.’ When this broader value is factored in, these spaces are estimated to be worth around £125 per adult each year at health centres, and £146 per adult each year at hospitals.
    The project was jointly funded and supported by the SEFARI Gateway (Scotland’s Centre of Expertise for Knowledge Exchange and Innovation) and Public Health Scotland and will contribute to the implementation of the NHS Scotland Climate Emergency and Sustainability Strategy building on previous research commissioned by Public Health Scotland and NatureScot.

    We believe these findings will be instrumental in shaping how NHS outdoor spaces are designed, maintained, and used across Scotland.” Dr Luis Loria-Rebolledo

    Charles Bestwick, Director of SEFARI Gateway said: “As well as providing significant health benefits to the public, the green spaces in the NHS estate can contribute to Net Zero targets as well as Scotland’s biodiversity strategy. The monetary value of the green spaces also helps provide information to the NHS when it comes to managing the NHS estate.”
    Dr Neil Chalmers, Health Economist at Public Health Scotland, said: “Half of NHS Scotland’s estates comprise of outdoor green spaces with park-like vegetation such as grass and trees. These areas are well frequented for walking and relaxing, with our research estimating that approximately half the population visited an NHS Scotland open space in the past year, leading to a total of 122 million estimated annual visits.
    “This has a real impact on the mental and physical health of those who visit these areas, as well as a positive knock-on effect on NHS services that can now be visualised in cost savings. This research underlines the importance of maintaining quality and accessible outdoor green spaces on the NHS estate in Scotland, so that everyone in society can continue to benefit from them.”
    Dr Luis Loria-Rebolledo, Research Fellow in the Health Economics Research Unit at the University of Aberdeen, who led the research added: “As the first study of its kind anywhere in the world, our research highlights the significant value of NHS Scotland’s open spaces, not only for their role in enhancing mental and physical health, but also in promoting social well-being and environmental sustainability.
    “These spaces are crucial for improving public health, offering people places to relax, recover, and exercise.
    “We believe these findings will be instrumental in shaping how NHS outdoor spaces are designed, maintained, and used across Scotland. Just as importantly, they offer valuable lessons that can be applied in healthcare settings around the world”

    Related Content

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Traffic delays: Henderson

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Motorists are advised to expect traffic delays around Newington Road in Henderson.

    A young child was struck by a car around 3pm and sustained a broken leg and foot injuries.

    A section of Newington Road between Great North Road and Keruru Road is closed. 

    Traffic management is at the scene and traffic is being diverted.  

    The injured child has been taken to hospital in a serious condition.

    ENDS

    Nicole Bremner/NZ Police 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police acknowledge sentencing in relation to the death of Yanfei Bao

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Attributable to Detective Inspector Nicola Reeves,

    Police acknowledge the sentence handed down to Tingjun Cao today in the Christchurch High Court.

    Mr Cao was sentenced to life imprisonment with 17 and a half years non-parole for the murder of Yanfei Bao.

    A dedicated investigation team, supported by our forensic specialist partners, has worked tirelessly since July 2023 to tell Yanfei’s story and seek a resolution for her and her loved ones. I speak on behalf of all the staff involved when I say this case will stay with us forever.

    Once again, I would like to acknowledge Yanfei’s family, both here in New Zealand and in China, who have showed nothing but strength, grace and courage over the last two years.

    We would also like to thank all the members of our community who have provided valuable information since day one of our investigation. Your support, your observations, and your willingness to assist the investigation and prosecution, directly contributed to this successful result.

    Yanfei was like so many of us, a much loved and admired woman, who was working hard to provide a better life for herself and her family. She had a fundamental right to be safe in her place of work and return home at the end of the day.

    Violent men who harm women will not be tolerated in our community and New Zealand Police will hold offenders to account.

    Violent men should feel under threat, not women and girls going about their lives.

    While there is no outcome that can bring Yanfei back to her family, we hope that today’s sentencing can bring them some closure, as they continue to adjust to life without her.

    This is just one part of the healing process and I hope her family can take some comfort knowing the person responsible has been held to account for his actions.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: State School Teachers’ Union of WA

    Source: Murray Darling Basin Authority

    G’day everyone.

    I acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which the Conference is taking place today, and I pay my respects to elders, past and present.

    I’m really sorry I can’t be there today in person but thank you so much for the opportunity to talk to you today.

    More importantly, thank you for what you do every day. 

    And the tens of thousands of teachers just like you that you represent.

    You’re here because you believe in the power of education.

    And so do I.

    To change lives and to change countries.

    And you’re here because you believe in the power of public education.

    And so do I.

    I’m a product of it, and proud of it.

    There’s really only one job in politics that I’ve ever wanted, and this is it.

    And there’s one reason more than anything else that I wanted to do it, to do what we’re doing right now.

    Fixing the funding of our schools.

    Not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because of what it will do.

    Western Australia was the first state I signed an agreement with last year to get this done.

    And that money is flowing right now.

    Since then, every state and territory has signed up.

    It means $16.5 billion in extra Commonwealth funding to public schools right across the country over the next decade and more after that.

    It’s the biggest new investment in public education by an Australian Government ever.

    More than 50 years ago, Whitlam talked about funding schools based on need.

    More than a decade ago, David Gonski produced a formula to make it happen.

    This is the money that makes it real.

    It won’t just change lives, its impact will ricochet through generations.

    You know that because you see what education does every day.

    You know that if a child finishes school, their kids are more likely to finish school too, and then go on to TAFE or to university.

    That’s what education does.

    I said a minute ago that this money is already rolling out here in WA, and we’re already starting to see the impact of it.

    Last week, I was in Yale Primary School in Thornlie.

    There, they are using some of this funding to boost school attendance rates.

    It’s part of the Complex Behaviour Support Coordinators Initiative that we’re funding.

    A full-time coordinator at the school, building a whole school approach to attendance.

    And the early evidence is that attendance is already up at Yale by about 10 per cent.

    That’s just one example of what we’re using this funding for.

    It’s also funding the Small Group Tuition Initiative.

    Catch up tutoring.

    More individualised support for students who start behind or fall behind, to catch up and keep up.

    One of the things that you asked us to tie this funding to.

    That’s now rolling out this year to 350 WA public schools.

    It’s just another example of what this funding does and can do.

    And what your advocacy does.

    A big part of why this is happening is because of you, because when others gave up, you didn’t.

    There’s more to do to make our education system better and fairer. 

    To train more teachers and to make sure they have the skills they need to succeed.

    To cut down the admin and give you more time to teach.

    Why you became a teacher in the first place.

    There’s more to do to build respect – in the classroom and across the country – for the most important job in the world.

    The most important profession in the world.

    Teaching.

    But today, I just wanted to say thanks.

    Thank you for everything that you do.

    I’m really looking forward to working with Sabine Winton, the new Minister for Education here in WA.

    And I’m really looking forward to continuing to work with you.

    To build that better and fairer education system that we all want and that our country needs.

    Have a great conference.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Have your say on the ATO Vulnerability Framework

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    What is the ATO Vulnerability Framework?

    We’ve developed the ATO Vulnerability Framework (‘the Framework’) to help people experiencing vulnerability engage with the tax system more easily and get the support they need. The Framework outlines our commitment to providing inclusive, consistent and compassionate assistance to people experiencing vulnerability when they interact with the tax system. It sets out 6 guiding principles, 4 core focus areas and a clear approach to engagement. These elements shape how we develop policies and processes, supporting fair, equitable and supportive interactions. While it doesn’t change tax or super obligations, it guides how we listen, communicate, and connect people with the right help.

    As of 24 April, tax agents had lodged 8.1 million individual returns – representing 57% of all individual returns. This highlights the important role tax professionals play in supporting a diverse range of clients, including people experiencing vulnerability. Your expertise and insights are invaluable in ensuring the Framework reflects the needs of your clients and the community.

    We encourage you to review the draft and provide feedback to help shape its final version.

    Why your feedback matters

    The Framework is currently in draft form; public consultation will ensure it is comprehensive and effective. Your input will help:

    • provide a deeper understanding of various perspectives
    • identify gaps or areas that could be clearer
    • strengthen transparency and accessibility.

    We welcome feedback from tax professionals, advocates, and individuals who may work with people experiencing vulnerability. As a tax professional, we value your role as a key partner in the system, well-placed to provide perspectives on the experience of taxpayers who may require extra assistance. Your insights will help ensure the final version of the Framework reflects the needs and experiences of the people it’s designed to support. Share this information with your clients and help drive positive change!

    How to provide feedback

    You can submit your feedback on the ATO Vulnerability Framework until 18 July 2025 via email to VulnerabilityConsultation@ato.gov.au.

    Learn more about the ATO Vulnerability Framework consultation paper on our website.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Foreign Minister visit strengthens ties with Indonesia

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ visit to Indonesia today has secured tangible progress in New Zealand’s relationship with Southeast Asia’s most populous nation.

    “Indonesia is an indispensable partner for New Zealand,” Mr Peters says. 

    “Demonstrating our commitment to the relationship, this is our fourth visit to Indonesia in the past 18 months, including for President Prabowo’s inauguration. 

    “We are pleased to have made tangible, concrete progress today across the Indonesia relationship, which will deliver benefits for the New Zealand and Indonesian people.” 

    Mr Peters, alongside Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono, announced in Jakarta today: 

    • the conclusion of a cooperation arrangement on halal products, which will facilitate halal food trade between New Zealand and Indonesia;
    • the signing of an enhanced education cooperation arrangement, to facilitate student and research exchanges;
    • an increase from 45 to 70 in the annual number of scholarships for Indonesian students to study in New Zealand; and
    • a port visit by HMNZS Te Kaha to Jakarta later this month.

    “By working more closely together, New Zealand and Indonesia are fostering mutual economic growth, deepening regional cooperation, and strengthening the connections between our people. 

    “The arrangement concluded today on halal is particularly noteworthy. Indonesia is recognising New Zealand’s domestic processes for certification of halal products. This will improve access for New Zealand meat and dairy into the world’s largest Muslim country.

    “We are also pleased that the new arrangement on education will spur closer student and research exchanges.”

    Mr Peters arrives back in New Zealand tomorrow, having completed a three-country tour of France (for the Pacific-France Summit and the UN Ocean Conference), Italy and Indonesia. 

    At the conclusion of their talks, Minister Peters and Sugiono released a joint statement.

    Media contact: John Tulloch +64 21 868 943

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Indonesia Press Remarks – Remarks to media alongside Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Good Morning. It is a pleasure to be in Jakarta again today.
    Indonesia is an absolute priority for the New Zealand government, which is why we have now visited here four times since re-taking office as New Zealand Foreign Minister in late 2023.
    Indonesia is one of New Zealand’s oldest friends in Southeast Asia and our relationship is warm, deep, and broad-based. There is much that we admire about your country. We are ambitious for us to do much more together. 
    Thank you to Minister Sugiono and his officials for hosting us today. We are always honoured by the extremely warm welcome here in Jakarta, and were proud to be here for President Prabowo’s inauguration last year. 
    New Zealand is a partner to Indonesia for the long-term and we have strong ambitions to strengthen our relationship as we head towards 70 years of diplomatic relations in 2028.
    We are pleased, Minister Sugiono, that during this visit we have been able to make tangible, concrete progress on issues of importance to our peoples. 
    On the economic front, we welcome the conclusion of a Cooperation Arrangement on Halal Products. This will facilitate the convenience, security and safety of halal food traded between our countries. 
    New Zealand leads the world in agriculture and dairy productivity, and our high quality, safe and halal food products are a key export to Indonesia. 
    We were pleased to discuss how New Zealand dairy exports can support President Prabowo’s flagship healthy nutrition programme – and to reiterate New Zealand’s commitment to working closely with Indonesia on agricultural cooperation, as Indonesia’s own dairy sector grows. 
    On education, our governments are signing today an amended Cooperation Arrangement to enhance student and research exchange between New Zealand and Indonesia.
    New Zealand is also delighted to announce today a significant increase ­– from 45 to 70 – in the annual number of scholarships offered to Indonesians to do tertiary study in New Zealand. 
    We look forward to welcoming an even greater number of Indonesian students to New Zealand to experience our world class education system and learn more about our respective cultures and countries. 
    On energy, we are proud of our long-standing partnership in Indonesia’s renewable energy sector. Over the next 5 years, New Zealand will invest a further $15 million to support the development of renewable energy in Indonesia. 
    We were pleased to reaffirm with Minister Sugiono our goal to increase two-way trade to NZ$6 billion by 2029 – noting that two-way trade with Indonesia increased by more than 43% in the past 5 years. 
    Our trade is mutually beneficial. To achieve our ambitious trade target, we need to keep working together to unlock new trade opportunities. 
    Indonesia is also a key partner for New Zealand in navigating increasing geostrategic complexities in the region. We discussed our collaboration on defence and regional security issues, including tackling transnational organised crime, the flow of drugs, and human trafficking.  New Zealand also announced a new contribution to the Jakarta Centre for Law Enforcement Cooperation, which reflects New Zealand’s long-standing partnership with this world class facility. 
    We are also pleased to announce the visit by HMNZS Te Kaha this month to Jakarta.
    New Zealand will also participate in Exercise Super Garuda Shield, a major United States-Indonesia exercise aimed at reinforcing security ties across the Indo-Pacific.
    So, this has been a very productive visit. New Zealand and Indonesia are making concrete progress together, in a wide range of areas. This is befitting the high ambition that our two countries have for the relationship. 
    Minister Sugiono, your hospitality has been a reflection of the warmth and respect that underpin our bilateral relationship. We eagerly await the opportunity to host you in New Zealand at your earliest convenience.
    Thank you very much. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What do we know about the Air India crash? How did one man survive? What now? An aviation safety expert explains

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Guido Carim Junior, Senior Lecturer in Aviation, Griffith University

    The back of Air India flight 171 after it crashed into a residential building in Ahmedabad. Sam Panthaky / AFP via Getty Images

    An Air India flight crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad in northwest India on Thursday afternoon local time, killing more than 260 people.

    The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, Flight AI171, was carrying 242 people bound for London. Only one passenger, a British man, survived.

    The plane crashed less than a minute after takeoff, coming down on top of a college hostel around 1.5 kilometres from the runway. Little is known so far about the cause of the incident.

    As an aviation safety expert, it is hard to avoid a sense of disbelief that an event such as this – involving one of the most advanced passenger jets in the world, built on the lessons of many earlier accidents – could happen in the 21st century.

    Trouble after takeoff

    Air crashes such as this one, in which a plane experiences trouble immediately after takeoff, are now extremely rare. They were more common in the past.

    In one infamous 1999 incident, 32 people died when LAPA Flight 3142 crashed during takeoff from Buenos Aires. During the accident investigation, it emerged that the Boeing 737’s wing flaps had not been in the right position for takeoff and the crew had ignored alarms from the plane’s internal warning system.

    The 2009 emergency landing of US Airways Flight 1549 on New York’s Hudson River also occurred shortly after takeoff. In that case, the problem was quite different: a collision with a flock of Canada geese shut down both engines, leading to a powerless aircraft.

    However, the aviation industry puts a lot of resources into learning from accidents so they don’t happen again. LAPA Flight 3142 led to recommended improvements in pilot training and flight procedures. The rules for engine design were changed after the “miracle on the Hudson”.

    So whatever caused the Air India crash, it may not be something we have seen before.

    How did one passenger survive?

    One passenger survived the crash. We don’t know exactly how.

    He was sitting in seat 11A, next to an emergency exit. Reports say the plane “broke in half”, and the passenger found himself in the front half while the rear caught fire. He then walked from the wreckage and was found by rescuers.

    Why did he survive when everybody else died? Research suggests that, in general, the seats at the back of the plane are the safest place to be in a crash – but this man was quite close to the front.

    Based on what we know so far, my expert opinion is that we have no better explanation than to call it luck or a miracle.

    Where to from here?

    We won’t have a clear idea of what happened until a full investigation has been carried out. Air crash investigations follow a protocol laid out by an International Civil Aviation Organization document called Annex 14.

    India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau will lead this investigation, putting together a team that will be assisted by representatives from the US National Transport Safety Bureau and the UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch, representing the countries of the plane’s manufacturer and passengers aboard.

    Rescuers sift through the wreckage of Flight AI171 in Ahmedabad.
    Sam Panthaky / AFP via Getty Images

    The team will conduct a forensic investigation of the crash site to make sense of what happened. Alongside material evidence found at the site, they will look at the data stored in the plane’s “black box”, which includes data from the flight recorder and cockpit voice recorder, to learn about what happened in the leadup to the crash.

    A slow, steady process

    Air crash investigations can take a long time. Typically a preliminary report will be published 3 to 6 months after the crash, followed by a final report a year or two later.

    The report will provide factual information on the cause of the accident and make recommendations. Depending on the cause, these might be changes to maintenance procedures, pilot and crew procedures, or even the design of parts of the aircraft.

    Indian authorities will then disseminate these recommendations to whoever needs them around the world. The process is slow, but it moves in the direction of safer air travel. Everyone will be waiting to find out and learn.

    In the meantime, it’s best to remember that we still don’t know what happened or why. Everyone wants answers, but speculation can do more harm than good.

    Guido Carim Junior 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. What do we know about the Air India crash? How did one man survive? What now? An aviation safety expert explains – https://theconversation.com/what-do-we-know-about-the-air-india-crash-how-did-one-man-survive-what-now-an-aviation-safety-expert-explains-258910

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Speculation about the cause of Air India crash is rife. An aviation expert explains why it’s a problem

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Natasha Heap, Program Director for the Bachelor of Aviation, University of Southern Queensland

    It has only been a few hours since Air India flight AI171 crashed in Ahmedabad, killing more than 260 people, yet public speculation about the causes of the disaster is already rife.

    Parts of the media seem to be encouraging this. For example, earlier today I was contacted by an international news organisation for an interview about the tragedy. While I agreed, I cautioned that I could only say “it is too early to speculate”. They decided not to proceed with the interview. No reason was given, but perhaps it was my aversion to speculation.

    Of course, I want to know as much as anyone else what caused this disaster. But publicly speculating at such an early stage, when there is so little evidence available, is more than unhelpful. It is also harmful, as many examples throughout history have shown.

    Like an archaeological excavation

    Aviation accident investigations start as soon as first responders have extinguished the fires and completed the search for survivors – the first and foremost driver when responding to such a disaster – and have declared the site safe. The identification of the victims will then commence, completed by a different agency, parallel to the accident investigation.

    State authorities aren’t the only people involved. The aircraft manufacturer (in this case Boeing) will usually send representatives to assist the investigation, as can the home countries of victims. Investigators in the country where the accident occurred may also request assistance from countries with more experience in aviation accident investigation.

    An early step for investigators is finding the black boxes (flight data recorders and cockpit voice recorder) among the debris. These contain data about the flight itself, what the aircraft was doing, and what the pilots were saying.

    But a plane crash investigation involves much more than just finding the black box.

    An aviation accident investigation is akin to an archaeological excavation – methodical and painstaking. If the evidence is not collected and preserved for later analysis at the time, it will be irrevocably lost.

    In the case of Air India Flight 171 the scene is further complicated by the crash location – a building. It will take time for the aeroplane wreckage, victims and personal belongings to be sorted from the building debris. This must occur before the search for answers can commence.

    Investigators will also gather witness statements and any video of the event. Their analysis will be further informed by company documentation, training, and regulatory compliance information.

    Around 80% of aviation accidents are due to “human factors”.

    According to the International Civil Aviation Organisation human factors are:

    what we know about human beings including their abilities, characteristics, and limitations, the design of procedures and equipment people use, and the environment in which they function and the tasks they perform.

    It could take several years for the full forensic investigation into this disaster to run its full course. For example, the final report into the Sea World helicopter crash in Queensland, Australia, back in 2023, which claimed the lives of four people and injured nine others, was only released in April this year.

    A history of speculation – and vilification

    There is a long history of undue and harmful public speculation about the possible causes of a plane crash.

    For example, since the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 on March 8, 2014, speculation has swirled about whether chief pilot Zaharie Ahmad Shah was responsible for the disaster and the deaths of the other 238 people on board. This has deeply upset his sister, Sakinab Shah. In 2016, she told CNN she feels her brother is a “scapegoat” she must defend.

    Similarly, the pilots of the British Midlands accident near Kegworth in 1989, in which 47 people died, were also publicly vilified.

    The pilots, who survived the crash, were experienced but misidentified which engine had failed, and shut down the wrong one. They were widely criticised in the press for the error, tarnishing their reputations, losing their jobs, and no doubt causing more stress to their families. The investigation later revealed the pilots themselves had not received any simulator training as they transitioned to a newer variant of the aircraft they were flying.

    This shows how undue public speculation about an airline disaster can add to the distress of victims and their families.

    Respect the process

    No doubt pilots and aviation experts are speculating in private right now about the causes of this particular disaster. Cafes, pubs and crew rooms will be rife with discussions and opinions. It is human nature to want to know what happened.

    But to speculate in public won’t assist the investigative process. Nor will it help the families of the victims, or the first responders and investigators themselves, get through this horrible time.

    Investigators need to work without external pressures to ensure accurate findings. Respecting this process maintains integrity and supports the many people who are currently experiencing unimaginable grief.

    Natasha Heap 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. Speculation about the cause of Air India crash is rife. An aviation expert explains why it’s a problem – https://theconversation.com/speculation-about-the-cause-of-air-india-crash-is-rife-an-aviation-expert-explains-why-its-a-problem-258911

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • Delhi airport issues travel advisory amid Iran-Israel tensions

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) on Friday issued a travel advisory for passengers flying to Iran and Iraq, urging them to check with their respective airlines for the latest flight schedules and operational updates. The advisory comes amid escalating hostilities between Iran and Israel and growing uncertainty over the region’s airspace.

    The IGIA statement said: “Delhi operations are running smoothly. However, due to the evolving airspace conditions over Iran, Iraq, and the neighbouring region, some flight schedules have been impacted.

    Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding their flights. We strongly urge all passengers to rely only on official sources for accurate and up-to-date information.”

    On Friday, Israel said it had targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories, and senior military commanders in the initial phase of what it described as a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

    Air India aslo announced that it has altered the routes of several flights. In a post on X, the airline said: “Due to the emerging situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace, and in view of the safety of our passengers, the following 16 Air India flights are either being diverted or returning to their origin.

    We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers due to this unforeseen disruption and are making every effort to minimize it, including providing accommodation for passengers. Refunds on cancellations or complimentary rescheduling are also being offered to guests who opt for it. Alternative arrangements are being made to fly passengers to their destinations.”

    Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has issued a separate advisory for Indian nationals in Israel, urging them to remain vigilant, avoid non-essential movement, and strictly follow local safety instructions.

    Sharing the message on social media, the Indian mission underscored the importance of caution and preparedness for citizens residing in or travelling through Israel.

    “In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indian nationals in Israel are advised to stay vigilant and adhere to the safety protocols as advised by the Israeli authorities and Home Front Command (https://oref.org.il/eng). Please exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel within the country, and stay close to safety shelters,” the Embassy posted on X.

    The Embassy also urged Indian citizens to stay informed through official sources and to remain in contact with the mission in case of any emergency.

  • Air India crash in Ahmedabad: 241 dead, only one survivor among 242 on board

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    nly one passenger survived after an Air India flight carrying 242 people crashed shortly after take-off in Ahmedabad on Thursday, the airline said in a statement.

    “We regret to inform that, of the 242 aboard, there are 241 confirmed fatalities. The sole survivor is being treated in a hospital,” Air India said.

    “The survivor is a British national of Indian origin,” it added.

    Air India also released a breakdown of the nationalities of those on board: 169 were Indian nationals, 53 British, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian.

    Flight AI-171, bound for London Gatwick, went down minutes after departing Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 p.m. IST. The aircraft crashed into a residential complex near BJ Medical College, sparking a massive fire and triggering a large-scale emergency response.

    In a separate post on X, the airline said it has established support centers at multiple airports to assist the families of the victims.

    “Air India has set up Friends & Relatives Assistance Centres at Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi and Gatwick airports to provide support and take care of the needs of the families and loved ones of those on flight AI171. These centres are facilitating the travel of family members to Ahmedabad,” the airline said.

    Emergency contact numbers have also been shared for those seeking information: 1800 5691 444 for calls from within India, and +91 8062779200 for international callers.

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Clubs and societies

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    The Privacy Act applies to any person, organisation, or business that collects and holds personal information about other people. This includes social clubs, charities, societies, and community groups regardless of the age of its members.

    Personal information held by these clubs needs to be collected, stored, and used in a way that is lawful, even if you’re a voluntary organisation. Personal information includes names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, offices held, awards, skills, references, recordings and photographs – essentially any information that identifies people. 

    This information could be about members and former members, but also about employees, contractors, people working at stalls, and service providers who’ve helped with things like training or coaching, IT, marketing, administration, financial assistance, or maintenance and repairs. 
     
    It can be held in minutes of meetings, newsletters and correspondence, on membership databases, and websites. It includes information in hard copy or electronic form and if it’s collected by a person taking sign-ups for an event, a digital camera, or a biometric scanner.

    People who have access to this personal information, including volunteers, will also need to be aware of their privacy responsibilities and need to comply with the law. 

    Your responsibilities

    Like all agencies in New Zealand, clubs and societies should only collect the personal information about the club’s volunteers and members that is necessary. Tell people why their information is needed and get their permission to share the information where it needs to be shared. Keep it safe. Don’t give it out without permission. Don’t keep it longer than necessary.

    You also need to appoint someone as your Privacy Officer, whose role it is to make sure the club complies with the Privacy Act. They can be a volunteer or member of your club.

    Privacy rules

    The Privacy Act has 13 Information Privacy Principles (IPPs) that govern how you should collect, handle, and use personal information. These include rules for collecting, holding, and using personal information. Our Privacy ABC Course is a great way to learn about these.

    Collecting personal information

    If you’re thinking about collecting personal information, the first thing you should consider is why you’re collecting it.

    Only collect what you need. Generally, you should collect information directly from the person it’s about and tell them what you’re doing and why. The best way to do this is usually with a clear privacy statement. Our Privacy Statement Generator makes writing that easier.

    Holding personal information

    You must keep the personal information you hold safe and secure. You may need a locked cabinet for physical documents, or password protection for electronic files. Make sure only appropriate people can access the information and that you know who they are and that they’re current members of the club.

    By law, you must give people access to the information you hold about them if they ask for it and take reasonable steps to correct their information if it’s wrong.

    People have a right to access information about themselves. This includes material like:

    • references to that person in minutes of a meeting
    • correspondence that the person has had with the society
    • decisions made about the person
    • details of complaints made about the person
    • material from their personal file, if they work for the society.

    Using and disclosing personal information

    Before you use personal information, check that it’s accurate, up-to-date, complete, relevant and not misleading.

    The Privacy Act doesn’t specify how long you can keep personal information – only that agencies shouldn’t keep information for longer than they need it.

    Only use information for the purpose you collected it. If you’ve told people what their information will be used for, and who it may be disclosed to, you will generally be able to use and disclose it in those ways without a problem. For example, if you collected a person’s email address to send out notices of meetings then you can’t give it to another club in town to recruit for members.

    Be careful about who you disclose (share) information to, both within and outside your organisation. This usually means having the permission of the person involved.

    You also need to dispose of personal information securely so one else can retrieve it. 

    Good privacy tips

    • Consider who will be able to see any of the personal information collected and held by the organisation, for example, membership lists.
    • A common way for a society to ensure that it has accurate information is to use annual subscription notices to encourage members to check their details and send in corrections, updates, or changes of address.
    • Check with people if you’re using information in a new way, for example, putting a team photo on the internet (including social media) may still technically be within the purpose for which it was taken, but it’s still best to check that members are happy with this new use of the information. Not everyone wants their photograph or their name on the internet.
    • If your club has a privacy breach that could cause serious harm, you will need to report that to our Office. We have a tool that will help you assess whether a breach needs to be notified, which you can find here.

    Relevant examples

    We’re here to help you

    We understand that whether playing petanque, softball or canasta, you’re not thinking much about how to keep people’s personal information safe and secure, and it may be your first time dealing with our office.

    If you have any questions, you can ask us for help. You don’t need to engage a lawyer. We are here to try and assist clubs to remedy a privacy issue and come to a resolution.

    While we can’t give specific legal advice on individual problems, we are happy to help by giving general advice, for example, about how the Privacy Act works.

    We have an enquiries service on 0800 803 909, or email enquiries@privacy.org.nz.

    If you think your club or society needs a privacy statement, you can create one using our Priv-o-matic privacy statement generator. It is free to use and only takes a few minutes.

    We also have answers to over 600 questions on the AskUs facility on our website, which you might find helpful.

    There are also free privacy training modules to help you learn more. These modules are a great way to start learning about privacy. They will take you less than an hour to complete, and they cover the basic principles of each topic. If you just want to learn general privacy knowledge, or you don’t know where to start, we recommend starting with an ABC module.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police put the brakes on scooter thief

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Good police work intercepted an alleged thief looking for an easy ride in Auckland early this morning.

    Around 3am two offenders arrived at a warehouse on Taylors Road, Morningside.

    “The van both offenders were travelling in was used to force its way through roller doors at the address, damaging them enough to gain entry,” Auckland City West Area Prevention Manager Inspector Wayne Kitcher says.

    Both offenders entered the address and took several large boxes containing e-scooters before driving away.

    A short time later Police located a man allegedly loading the same e-scooter boxes into a different vehicle, only a few minutes from the scene.

    The boxes were identified as identical to the ones taken from the premises.

    “The original vehicle was later discovered hidden at an address only a few hundred metres away from where staff apprehended this man,” Inspector Kitcher says.

    “This was a good result by our staff who put a stop on these alleged offenders being able to benefit from the proceeds of crime.

    “Ram raids have trended downward in recent years, and we continue to prosecute this offending if it occurs.”

    A 37-year-old man appeared in Auckland District Court charged with receiving stolen property.

    Inspector Kitcher says enquiries remain ongoing to locate the second offender.

    ENDS

    Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Proposed installation works of Sihanoukville-Hong Kong (SHV-HK) Submarine Cable System gazetted

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Proposed installation works of Sihanoukville-Hong Kong (SHV-HK) Submarine Cable System gazetted* Sai Kung Home Affairs Enquiry Centre of the Sai Kung District Office (G/F, Sai Kung Tseung Kwan O Government Complex, 38 Pui Shing Road, Hang Hau, Tseung Kwan O, New Territories);
    * Eastern Home Affairs Enquiry Centre of the Eastern District Office (G/F, Eastern Law Courts Building, 29 Tai On Street, Sai Wan Ho, Hong Kong);
    * Southern Home Affairs Enquiry Centre of the Southern District Office (G/F, Ocean Court, 3 Aberdeen Praya Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong); and
    * Lands Department’s website (www.landsd.gov.hkIssued at HKT 12:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Proposed installation works of Southeast Asia-Hainan-Hong Kong Express (SEA-H2X) Submarine Cable System gazetted

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Proposed installation works of Southeast Asia-Hainan-Hong Kong Express (SEA-H2X) Submarine Cable System gazetted 
    The proposed works comprise the installation of a submarine cable system of approximately 35.1 kilometres in length and 40 millimetres in diameter. The proposed works are tentatively scheduled to commence in the third quarter of 2025 and are expected to be completed in approximately four months.
     
    The notice and its related plan are posted near the site. The plan is also available for inspection at:
    * Survey and Mapping Office of the Lands Department (6/F, North Point Government Offices, 333 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong) (where copies can be purchased on order);
    * Sai Kung Home Affairs Enquiry Centre of the Sai Kung District Office (G/F, Sai Kung Tseung Kwan O Government Complex, 38 Pui Shing Road, Hang Hau, Tseung Kwan O, New Territories);
    * Eastern Home Affairs Enquiry Centre of the Eastern District Office (G/F, Eastern Law Courts Building, 29 Tai On Street, Sai Wan Ho, Hong Kong);
    * Southern Home Affairs Enquiry Centre of the Southern District Office (G/F, Ocean Court, 3 Aberdeen Praya Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong);
    * Islands Home Affairs Enquiry Centre (Cheung Chau) of the Islands District Office (G/F, 22 San Hing Street, Cheung Chau);
    * Islands Home Affairs Enquiry Centre (Mui Wo) of the Islands District Office (G/F, Mui Wo Government Offices, 2 Ngan Kwong Wan Road, Mui Wo, Lantau Island);
    * Islands Home Affairs Enquiry Centre (Tung Chung) of the Islands District Office (1/F, Tung Chung Post Office Building, 6 Mei Tung Street, Tung Chung, Lantau Island); and
    * Lands Department’s website (www.landsd.gov.hk 
    Any person who considers that he has an interest, right or easement in or over the foreshore and seabed involved may submit a written objection to the Director of Lands, 20/F, North Point Government Offices, 333 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong, within two months from the gazette date, i.e. on or before August 13. The objector shall describe in the notice of objection his interest, right or easement, and the manner in which he will be allegedly affected.
    Issued at HKT 12:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Expansion works of Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter proposed

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Expansion works of Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter proposed 
    The proposed works will create additional sheltered space to address the strong regional demand in Hong Kong Island South, particularly for pleasure vessels. The proposed works will include the construction of two new breakwaters and the provision of public landing facilities at the proposed eastern breakwater, construction of a pedestrian walkway to connect the proposed eastern breakwater to Ocean Drive and an associated vessel impact protection system, demolition of part of the existing breakwater at the eastern side of Ap Lei Chau, and construction of a wave wall in the form of a floating breakwater. The proposed works are tentatively scheduled to commence in 2026 for completion in 2030. At the same time, the Government would also like to seize the opportunity of the expansion of the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter to utilise part of the expanded waterbody for the market to develop a marina and promote yacht tourism.
     
    The notice and its related plan are posted near the site. The plan is also available for inspection at:
    * Survey and Mapping Office of the Lands Department (6/F, North Point Government Offices, 333 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong) (where copies can be purchased on order);
    * Southern Home Affairs Enquiry Centre of the Southern District Office (G/F, Ocean Court, 3 Aberdeen Praya Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong); and
    * Lands Department’s website (www.landsd.gov.hk 
    Any person who considers that he has an interest, right or easement in or over the foreshore and seabed involved may submit a written objection to the Director of Lands, 20/F, North Point Government Offices, 333 Java Road, North Point, Hong Kong, within two months from the gazette date, i.e. on or before August 13. The objector shall describe in the notice of objection his interest, right or easement, and the manner in which he will be allegedly affected.
    Issued at HKT 12:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What do we know about the Air India crash? How did one man survive? What now? An aviation safety expert explains

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Guido Carim Junior, Senior Lecturer in Aviation, Griffith University

    The back of Air India flight 171 after it crashed into a residential building in Ahmedabad. Sam Panthaky / AFP via Getty Images

    An Air India flight crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad in northwest India on Thursday afternoon local time, killing more than 260 people.

    The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, Flight AI171, was carrying 242 people bound for London. Only one passenger, a British man, survived.

    The plane crashed less than a minute after takeoff, coming down on top of a college hostel around 1.5 kilometres from the runway. Little is known so far about the cause of the incident.

    As an aviation safety expert, it is hard to avoid a sense of disbelief that an event such as this – involving one of the most advanced passenger jets in the world, built on the lessons of many earlier accidents – could happen in the 21st century.

    Trouble after takeoff

    Air crashes such as this one, in which a plane experiences trouble immediately after takeoff, are now extremely rare. They were more common in the past.

    In one infamous 1999 incident, 32 people died when LAPA Flight 3142 crashed during takeoff from Buenos Aires. During the accident investigation, it emerged that the Boeing 737’s wing flaps had not been in the right position for takeoff and the crew had ignored alarms from the plane’s internal warning system.

    The 2009 emergency landing of US Airways Flight 1549 on New York’s Hudson River also occurred shortly after takeoff. In that case, the problem was quite different: a collision with a flock of Canada geese shut down both engines, leading to a powerless aircraft.

    However, the aviation industry puts a lot of resources into learning from accidents so they don’t happen again. LAPA Flight 3142 led to recommended improvements in pilot training and flight procedures. The rules for engine design were changed after the “miracle on the Hudson”.

    So whatever caused the Air India crash, it may not be something we have seen before.

    How did one passenger survive?

    One passenger survived the crash. We don’t know exactly how.

    He was sitting in seat 11A, next to an emergency exit. Reports say the plane “broke in half”, and the passenger found himself in the front half while the rear caught fire. He then walked from the wreckage and was found by rescuers.

    Why did he survive when everybody else died? Research suggests that, in general, the seats at the back of the plane are the safest place to be in a crash – but this man was quite close to the front.

    Based on what we know so far, my expert opinion is that we have no better explanation than to call it luck or a miracle.

    Where to from here?

    We won’t have a clear idea of what happened until a full investigation has been carried out. Air crash investigations follow a protocol laid out by an International Civil Aviation Organization document called Annex 14.

    India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau will lead this investigation, putting together a team that will be assisted by representatives from the US National Transport Safety Bureau and the UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch, representing the countries of the plane’s manufacturer and passengers aboard.

    Rescuers sift through the wreckage of Flight AI171 in Ahmedabad.
    Sam Panthaky / AFP via Getty Images

    The team will conduct a forensic investigation of the crash site to make sense of what happened. Alongside material evidence found at the site, they will look at the data stored in the plane’s “black box”, which includes data from the flight recorder and cockpit voice recorder, to learn about what happened in the leadup to the crash.

    A slow, steady process

    Air crash investigations can take a long time. Typically a preliminary report will be published 3 to 6 months after the crash, followed by a final report a year or two later.

    The report will provide factual information on the cause of the accident and make recommendations. Depending on the cause, these might be changes to maintenance procedures, pilot and crew procedures, or even the design of parts of the aircraft.

    Indian authorities will then disseminate these recommendations to whoever needs them around the world. The process is slow, but it moves in the direction of safer air travel. Everyone will be waiting to find out and learn.

    In the meantime, it’s best to remember that we still don’t know what happened or why. Everyone wants answers, but speculation can do more harm than good.

    Guido Carim Junior 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. What do we know about the Air India crash? How did one man survive? What now? An aviation safety expert explains – https://theconversation.com/what-do-we-know-about-the-air-india-crash-how-did-one-man-survive-what-now-an-aviation-safety-expert-explains-258910

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Speculation about the cause of Air India crash is rife. An aviation expert explains why it’s a problem

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Natasha Heap, Program Director for the Bachelor of Aviation, University of Southern Queensland

    It has only been a few hours since Air India flight AI171 crashed in Ahmedabad, killing more than 260 people, yet public speculation about the causes of the disaster is already rife.

    Parts of the media seem to be encouraging this. For example, earlier today I was contacted by an international news organisation for an interview about the tragedy. While I agreed, I cautioned that I could only say “it is too early to speculate”. They decided not to proceed with the interview. No reason was given, but perhaps it was my aversion to speculation.

    Of course, I want to know as much as anyone else what caused this disaster. But publicly speculating at such an early stage, when there is so little evidence available, is more than unhelpful. It is also harmful, as many examples throughout history have shown.

    Like an archaeological excavation

    Aviation accident investigations start as soon as first responders have extinguished the fires and completed the search for survivors – the first and foremost driver when responding to such a disaster – and have declared the site safe. The identification of the victims will then commence, completed by a different agency, parallel to the accident investigation.

    State authorities aren’t the only people involved. The aircraft manufacturer (in this case Boeing) will usually send representatives to assist the investigation, as can the home countries of victims. Investigators in the country where the accident occurred may also request assistance from countries with more experience in aviation accident investigation.

    An early step for investigators is finding the black boxes (flight data recorders and cockpit voice recorder) among the debris. These contain data about the flight itself, what the aircraft was doing, and what the pilots were saying.

    But a plane crash investigation involves much more than just finding the black box.

    An aviation accident investigation is akin to an archaeological excavation – methodical and painstaking. If the evidence is not collected and preserved for later analysis at the time, it will be irrevocably lost.

    In the case of Air India Flight 171 the scene is further complicated by the crash location – a building. It will take time for the aeroplane wreckage, victims and personal belongings to be sorted from the building debris. This must occur before the search for answers can commence.

    Investigators will also gather witness statements and any video of the event. Their analysis will be further informed by company documentation, training, and regulatory compliance information.

    Around 80% of aviation accidents are due to “human factors”.

    According to the International Civil Aviation Organisation human factors are:

    what we know about human beings including their abilities, characteristics, and limitations, the design of procedures and equipment people use, and the environment in which they function and the tasks they perform.

    It could take several years for the full forensic investigation into this disaster to run its full course. For example, the final report into the Sea World helicopter crash in Queensland, Australia, back in 2023, which claimed the lives of four people and injured nine others, was only released in April this year.

    A history of speculation – and vilification

    There is a long history of undue and harmful public speculation about the possible causes of a plane crash.

    For example, since the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 on March 8, 2014, speculation has swirled about whether chief pilot Zaharie Ahmad Shah was responsible for the disaster and the deaths of the other 238 people on board. This has deeply upset his sister, Sakinab Shah. In 2016, she told CNN she feels her brother is a “scapegoat” she must defend.

    Similarly, the pilots of the British Midlands accident near Kegworth in 1989, in which 47 people died, were also publicly vilified.

    The pilots, who survived the crash, were experienced but misidentified which engine had failed, and shut down the wrong one. They were widely criticised in the press for the error, tarnishing their reputations, losing their jobs, and no doubt causing more stress to their families. The investigation later revealed the pilots themselves had not received any simulator training as they transitioned to a newer variant of the aircraft they were flying.

    This shows how undue public speculation about an airline disaster can add to the distress of victims and their families.

    Respect the process

    No doubt pilots and aviation experts are speculating in private right now about the causes of this particular disaster. Cafes, pubs and crew rooms will be rife with discussions and opinions. It is human nature to want to know what happened.

    But to speculate in public won’t assist the investigative process. Nor will it help the families of the victims, or the first responders and investigators themselves, get through this horrible time.

    Investigators need to work without external pressures to ensure accurate findings. Respecting this process maintains integrity and supports the many people who are currently experiencing unimaginable grief.

    Natasha Heap 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. Speculation about the cause of Air India crash is rife. An aviation expert explains why it’s a problem – https://theconversation.com/speculation-about-the-cause-of-air-india-crash-is-rife-an-aviation-expert-explains-why-its-a-problem-258911

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • Oil soars more than 9% after Israel strikes Iran, rattling investors

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Oil prices surged more than 9% on Friday, hitting their highest in almost five months after Israel struck Iran, dramatically escalating tensions in the Middle East and raising worries about disrupted oil supplies.

    Brent crude futures LCOc1 jumped $6.29, or 9.07%, to $75.65 a barrel by 0315 GMT after hitting an intraday high of $78.50, the highest since January 27. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude CLc1 was up $6.43, or 9.45%, at $74.47 a barrel after hitting a high of $77.62, the loftiest since January 21.

    Friday’s gains were the largest intraday moves for both contracts since 2022 after Russia invaded Ukraine, causing energy prices to spike.

    Israel said it targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories and military commanders on Friday at the start of what it warned would be a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from building an atomic weapon.

    “This has elevated geopolitical uncertainty significantly and requires the oil market to price in a larger risk premium for any potential supply disruptions,” ING analysts led by Warren Patterson said in a note.

    Several oil traders in Singapore said it was still too early to say if the strike will affect Middle East oil shipments as it will depend on how Iran retaliates and if the U.S. will intervene.

    “It’s too early to tell but I think the market is worried about shutting off of the Strait of Hormuz,” one of the traders said.

    MST Marquee senior energy analyst Saul Kavonic said the conflict would need to escalate to the point of Iranian retaliation on oil infrastructure in the region before oil supply is materially impacted.

    He added that Iran could hinder up to 20 million barrels per day of oil supply via attacks on infrastructure or limiting passage through the Strait of Hormuz, in an extreme scenario.

    Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Israel will receive “harsh punishment” following Friday’s attack that he said killed several military commanders.

    U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday called Israel’s strikes against Iran a “unilateral action” and said Washington was not involved while also urging Tehran not to target U.S. interests or personnel in the region.

    “Iran has announced an emergency and is preparing to retaliate, which raises the risk of not just disruptions but of contagion in other neighbouring oil producing nations too,” said Priyanka Sachdeva, senior market analyst at Phillip Nova.

    “Although Trump has shown reluctance to participate, U.S. involvement could further raise concerns.”

    In other markets, stocks dived in early Asian trade, led by a selloff in U.S. futures, while investors scurried to safe havens such as gold and the Swiss franc.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israel Launches Preemptive Strike on Iran, Explosions Rock Tehran

    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

    TEHRAN/JERUSALEM, June 13 (Xinhua) — Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Friday that Israel launched a “preemptive strike” on Iran and declared a state of emergency throughout the country.

    The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that some Iranian military and nuclear facilities were hit.

    As reported by the Iranian state television channel IRIB, powerful explosions were heard in the capital Tehran on Friday morning. Their source has not yet been established.

    US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says US not involved in Israeli attack. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Two to appear in court following Marton incidents

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Attributable to Detective Sergeant Carey Priest,

    Two men are before the courts following two incidents in Marton.

    At approximately 10pm on 10 May, Police were called to an alleged aggravated robbery at a commercial premises on Broadway.

    After closing and securing the premises, the employee was confronted by the alleged offender who hid in the ceiling space of the property.

    The offender threatened the employee with a weapon and demanded a large amount of cash before fleeing the area on foot.

    Thankfully, the employee is not injured, however was understandably shaken by the incident.

    After an investigation into the incident, Police identified the alleged offender, and found that the man had allegedly committed a burglary at the same premises in April.

    This week, Police arrested and charged two men in relation to the two incidents.

    Police are pleased to have made arrests in relation to this matter and hold the alleged offenders to account.

    We recognise the significant impact this type of offending has on our community and that it can be incredibly distressing.

    Police takes this offending seriously, and we hope these arrests reassure the community that we have absolutely no tolerance for incidents like these.

    A 39-year-old Nelson man appeared in Porirua District Court on 12 June, charged with aggravated robbery and burglary. He was remanded in custody and is due to reappear on 17 June.

    A 49-year-old Palmerston North man is due to appear in Palmerston North District Court on 17 June, charged with aggravated robbery and burglary.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road Closed – Lorna Street, New Plymouth

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Road Closure. Lorna Street, New Plymouth.

    Emergency services are reponding to an incident in Lorna Street, reported at 3.20pm.

    There is not believed to be a risk to the wider community but Police request the public stay away from the area.

    The road is closed from Devon St. West to David St.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Joint Statement: By the Foreign Ministers of the Republic of Indonesia and New Zealand at the 12th Joint Ministerial Commission

    Source: New Zealand Government

    His Excellency Sugiono, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, and Rt Hon Winston Peters, Minister of Foreign Affairs of New Zealand, convened the 12th meeting of the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) on 13th June 2025 in Jakarta, Indonesia. 
    The Ministers welcomed meeting in person, underscoring the importance of regular consultations between themselves, Leaders and other Cabinet colleagues to strengthen the relationship in ways that deliver real benefits and advance shared values.
    The Ministers celebrated the cooperation between Indonesia and New Zealand under the Comprehensive Partnership agreed by Leaders in 2018, and the achievements under the 2025-2029 Plan of Action. 
    The Ministers committed to intensify cooperation across the seven pillars of the Comprehensive Partnership to strengthen bilateral ties and achieve the ambitious goals set out in the 2025-2029 Plan of Action.
     
    Reviewing the implementation of the first year of the Plan of Action 2025-2029, and way forward 

    “Friends for Good” Ties

    The Ministers acknowledged intensive recent engagement between the two countries, including Minister Peters’ attendance at President Prabowo’s inauguration in October 2024, and meetings between our Prime Minister and President, and Foreign Ministers at APEC in November 2024, as well as increased engagements by senior officials. 
    Both Ministers agreed to further increase two-way dialogue and acknowledged the importance of face-to-face engagement, and regular hosting of key relationship architecture meetings, in maintaining our “Friends for Good” ties.
    The Ministers agreed to encourage relevant stakeholders to bolster bilateral relations and cooperation, including through bilateral defence talks and the annual Senior Officials Meeting on Trade and Investment Framework.
    Both Ministers also noted the significant potential for promoting Parliamentary and civil society exchanges to further strengthen bilateral and people-to-people ties.
    Enhancing Trade and Economic Partnerships to Advance Growth of Both Economies
    The Ministers highlighted the importance of enhancing mutual prosperity and strengthening trade and economic connections. Ministers recalled the goal in the Plan of Action to grow two-way trade to NZ$6 billion by the end of 2029.  They highlighted the need for New Zealand and Indonesia to increase mutual cooperation in the face of global economic uncertainty.
    Both Ministers highlighted the importance of resolving non-tariff trade barriers to ensure trade continuity and growth. Ministers welcomed agreement of the Cooperation Arrangement on Halal Standards.  The Arrangement will facilitate the convenience, security, safety and certainty of halal food traded between our countries. Ministers noted the intent for New Zealand and Indonesia to work together to further support the Indonesian national program of food resilience and the Nutritious Meal programme.

    The Ministers noted the positive trend of New Zealand’s investment in Indonesia, and agreed to continue efforts to encourage investment flows.
    Ministers welcomed the year-round direct flights between Auckland and Bali and committed to continue to work towards unlocking the full potential of enhanced air connectivity to facilitate increased people-to-people, business and trade flows.
    Both Ministers reconfirmed the importance of a rules-based, free and open trade environment, with the World Trade Organisation at its core, as critical for the regional and global economy. The Ministers welcomed the implementation of the upgraded ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA), which entered into force in April 2025, and ongoing cooperation under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
    The Ministers acknowledged the process of Indonesia’s accession to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) as an important step to foster economic integration, accelerate economic reform, and support mutual prosperity. 
    Both Ministers reaffirmed their nations’ commitment to preventing illegal money laundering and other illegal financing activities to enhance financial integrity and transparency and to further promote economic growth and development.
     
    Renewable Energy and Environment Cooperation 
    The Ministers highlighted the importance of renewable energy, including geothermal cooperation, which has been a significant part of the relationship since the 1970s and welcomed the renewed Partnership Arrangement in renewable energy and energy conservation signed in September 2024. 
    Ministers announced a further NZ$15 million investment in Phase 2 of the New Zealand-Maluku Access to Renewable Energy Support (NZMATES 2.0) programme to continue to improve access to reliable, renewable electricity for remote and small islands while building local industry service capacity.
    The Ministers acknowledged strong collaboration between the Indonesia and New Zealand geothermal industries, including under the Pūngao Ngawha (Panas Bumi) Indonesia-New Zealand Partnership Programme (PINZ), that provides access to New Zealand’s world-renowned technical and training capabilities, with the aim of assisting Indonesia to further accelerate the development of its geothermal energy sector and broader energy transition.
    The Ministers emphasised their shared commitment to adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change under the Paris Agreement and expressed willingness to expand climate related and environmental cooperation through comprehensive climate change dialogue that includes both mitigation and adaptation strategies.
     

    Education, Tourism, Science, Technology and Innovation, and People-to-People Cooperation

    Ministers welcomed the significant increase in the annual allocation of tertiary scholarships under the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme (MNZSP), from 45 to 70, for Indonesia for this year and the next two years, reflecting their mutual dedication to deepening people-to-people connections, strengthening capacity in renewable energy and public governance, and developing disadvantaged regions. 
    The Ministers welcomed the Arrangement on Education Cooperation to refresh areas of cooperation, including increased education and higher education policy dialogues to enhance education system development and resilience.
    The Ministers underscored the importance of enhancing people-to-people connections, particularly in education and tourism, as a bedrock of strong bilateral ties. Both Ministers welcomed the exchange of cultural missions and promotions to serve this purpose.
    Ministers welcomed further exchanges of officials’ level visits to New Zealand focused on good governance, public sector performance and integrity and other sectors to advance bilateral relations.
    The Ministers encouraged closer cooperation between Indonesia and New Zealand in supporting research collaboration as highlighted in the Arrangement on Education Cooperation.
     
    Development Cooperation 
    Both Ministers welcomed the past year’s implementation progress under the Statement of Partnership (SoP) 2025-2029 signed in July 2024 and reviewed in May 2025. The SoP has strengthened and elevated both the development relationship and mutual commitment to focus on development cooperation and other strategic issues and is strongly aligned with Indonesia’s national priorities in two areas: climate and economic resilience; and inclusive human development.
     
    Defence, Security, Cyber and Maritime Cooperation

    Ministers acknowledged New Zealand and Indonesia’s long-standing defence relationship and committed to continuing to strengthen these ties, including through regular Defence Ministers’ meetings. They welcomed the upcoming visit to Jakarta by New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Te Kaha and the recent visit by the Chief of the Royal New Zealand Navy.
    The Ministers announced new funding towards ongoing cooperation on security issues through continued support for the Jakarta Centre for Law Enforcement Cooperation (JCLEC). The funding provided by New Zealand will enable the continued delivery of high-quality capacity building initiatives and collaboration between law enforcement agencies to combat transnational organised crime in the region. 
    The Ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to the Bali Process and welcomed progress against the Adelaide Strategy for Cooperation, which sets out the priority areas of cooperation for the Bali Process Working Groups. This includes an upcoming Joint Tabletop Exercise co-hosted by New Zealand, Indonesia, Australia and Viet Nam, through the Working Group on Disruption of Criminal Networks Involved in People Smuggling and Trafficking in Persons from 23 to 26 June 2025. 
    The Ministers agreed to continue to implement the refreshed cooperation arrangement on counter-terrorism, and identify opportunities for dialogue on preventing violent extremism. 
    Ministers highlighted the importance of active participation by our militaries in training activities, annual defence talks and joint exercises, including Exercise Super Garuda Shield.
     

    Regional and Multilateral Agenda

    The Ministers emphasised ASEAN’s central role in the dynamic regional architecture and their shared commitment to ongoing dialogue and cooperation through ASEAN-led mechanisms and processes, particularly the East Asia Summit (EAS), the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), and ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus).
    The Ministers welcomed the ASEAN-New Zealand Joint Statement on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific in 2023 to maintain regional stability and to serve as a framework to strengthen bilateral relations to advance economic relations and maritime governance under international law.
    The Ministers welcomed the implementation of the ASEAN-New Zealand Plan of Action (POA) (2021-2025) and its substantial progress achieved across the four themes outlined in the POA – Peace, Prosperity, People, and Planet. They further welcomed activity throughout 2025 to commemorate 50 years of dialogue relations between New Zealand and ASEAN, including preparations under way for a Commemorative Summit in Malaysia in October. Minister Sugiono confirmed Indonesia’s support for New Zealand’s proposal to elevate the relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and noted the development of a new ASEAN-New Zealand Plan of Action (2026-2030) to guide future cooperation. 
    Ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining and promoting security and stability in the South China Sea. Ministers underscored their strong support for freedom of navigation and overflight and unimpeded trade, and their unwavering support for the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Ministers emphasised the need for the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, particularly UNCLOS. In this regard, Ministers recalled the 2016 ruling of the South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal, constituted under UNCLOS. They underscored the importance of further progress towards an effective and substantive Code of Conduct that is consistent with international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS.
    Ministers expressed concern about the conflict and humanitarian crisis in Myanmar.  Ministers called on stakeholders and parties in Myanmar, in particular the armed forces and security forces concerned, to immediately cease violence, including the targeting of civilians, and to engage in inclusive dialogue. Ministers emphasised the importance of a peaceful, stable and unified Myanmar, affirmed their strong support for ASEAN-led efforts in line with the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus and encouraged the international community to work together in a pragmatic and constructive way to support peace and stability in Myanmar.
    The Ministers expressed concern about the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and reiterated their calls for all parties to cease all hostilities; release all remaining hostages; facilitate the rapid, safe, unimpeded, and sustained delivery of humanitarian aid; adhere to international humanitarian law; and protect aid workers to enable their lifesaving work. Ministers reaffirmed their support for the implementation of a two-state solution consistent with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions.
    Ministers exchanged views on the war against Ukraine and reiterated support for efforts to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.  In that context, Ministers continued to reaffirm their respect for sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity, and reiterated their call for compliance with the United Nations Charter and international law.
    The Ministers acknowledged the challenges to the multilateral system from shifting geopolitical dynamics, a tightly constrained financial environment and increasingly complex global risks. They reaffirmed their strong support for multilateralism and the international rules-based system, and acknowledged its important role in underpinning global stability, resilience and prosperity. The Ministers committed to collaborating on efforts to strengthen the multilateral system, increase inclusivity and transparency, and to safeguard and advance human rights, in order to support a system that is more responsive to today’s challenges. 

    Conclusion

    Ministers reviewed the implementation of the Plan of Action for 2025-2029 and discussed their common interest in advancing bilateral cooperation and delivering tangible outcomes.
    Both Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to utilise and advance the implementation of existing cooperation frameworks to deliver our shared interests. 
    Both Ministers were ready to explore more cooperation in the future to support both nations’ interests, as confirmation of their strong stance as Friends for Good.
    Minister Peters expressed his sincere gratitude to Minister Sugiono and the Indonesian Government for the warm welcome and hospitality accorded to him during the visit, and looked forward to hosting Minister Sugiono at the 13th JMC in New Zealand in 2026.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: April crime statistics

    Source: New South Wales – News

    The number of robberies and related offences committed in South Australia have continued to decrease significantly, the latest crime statistics have revealed.

    The April rolling year crime statistics also reveal continuing strong declines in other offence categories including house break-ins, shop theft, car theft and homicides.

    The 13 per cent decrease in robbery and related offending – from 847 to 740 reported offences – in the April period is the fifteenth successive fall in reported offences in that category.

    Within that category aggravated robbery declined by 16 per cent – from 501 to 419 reported offences and non-aggravated robbery by 12 per cent – from 82 to 72 reported offences.

    While the majority of property related offences recorded a decrease in the rolling year period, acts intended to cause injury – which includes all assaults – recorded a minor increase.

    Within that category serious assault resulting in injury dropped by one per cent, or 34 offences, serious assault not resulting in injury rose by seven per cent, or 846 incidents, and common assault increased by one per cent, or 73 incidents.

    Police intelligence reveals that domestic abuse related assaults increased by 10.8 per cent in the month of April, from 843 offences reported to 934 offences reported. Just over 52 per cent of all assaults reported to police in April 2025 were related to domestic abuse, compared with 49.6 per cent in April 2024.

    The number of stranger assaults decreased in April with 312 incidents reported (17.4 per cent of assaults), compared with 391 offences reported (23 pr cent of assaults) in April 2024.

    The number of assaults involving a knife or other bladed weapon remained relatively stable in April 2025 with 129 offences reported compared with 121 offences reported in April 2024.

    The April rolling year figures reveal house break-ins declined by 11 per cent in the period from 5,917 to 5,265 reported offences. This followed an eight per cent decline in the March period, seven per cent in the February period and a five per cent decline in January.

    The number of non-residential break-ins declined by seven per cent from 3,709 to 3,437 reported offences. This followed five per cent declines in March and February.

    Shop theft also showed another significant decrease in the April period with a nine per cent reduction in offending reported – the sixth successive drop. There were 1,604 fewer offences reported in the April period – from 18,735 to 17,131 reported incidents.
    The continued reduction in both house break-ins and shop theft is attributable to ongoing proactive operations targeting recidivist offenders.

    Car theft and theft from a vehicle have both continued to decline in the period. Car theft decreased by seven per cent or 260 offences – from 3,766 to 3,506 offences. This followed a nine per cent drop in March, 11 per cent in February and 12 per cent decrease in January.

    Theft from a motor vehicle declined by 22 per cent in the period – from 9,920 to 7,736 reported offences. This followed a 23 per cent decline in March and a 22 per cent drop in February.

    The number of homicides committed in South Australia has continued to decrease with a 57 per cent decline in the April period – from 23 to 10 reported offences. This followed a 52 per cent decrease in the March period.

    MIL OSI News –

  • Israel strikes Iran nuclear facilities, missile factories

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Israel said it targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile factories and military commanders on Friday at the start of what it warned would be a prolonged operation to prevent Tehran from building an atomic weapon.

    Iranian media and witnesses reported explosions including at the country’s main uranium enrichment facility at Natanz, while Israel declared a state of emergency in anticipation of retaliatory missile and drone strikes.

    Iranian state television reported that Hossein Salami, the chief of the elite Revolutionary Guards corps, had been killed and the unit’s headquarters in Tehran had been hit. Several children had been killed in a strike on a residential area in the capital, it said.

    “We are at a decisive moment in Israel’s history,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a recorded video message.

    “Moments ago Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival. This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat.”

    Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a statement that Israel had “unleashed its wicked and bloody” hand in a crime against Iran and that it would receive “a bitter fate for itself”.

    An Israeli military official said Israel was striking “dozens” of nuclear and military targets including the facility at Natanz in central Iran. The official said Iran had enough material to make 15 nuclear bombs within days.

    The United States said it had no part in the operation, which raises the risk of a fresh escalation in tensions in the Middle East, a major oil producing region.

    Alongside extensive air strikes, Israel’s Mossad spy agency led a series of covert sabotage operations inside Iran, Axios reported, citing a senior Israeli official. These operations were aimed at damaging Iran’s strategic missile sites and its air defence capabilities.

    Iranian state media reported that at least two nuclear scientists, Fereydoun Abbasi and Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi were killed in Israeli strikes in Tehran.

    Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport was closed until further notice, and Israel’s air defence units stood at high alert for possible retaliatory strikes from Iran.

    “Following the pre-emptive strike by the State of Israel against Iran, a missile and UAV (drone) attack against the State of Israel and its civilian population is expected in the immediate time frame,” Defence Minister Israel Katz said in a statement.

    Israeli military Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir said tens of thousands of soldiers had been called up and “prepared across all borders”.

    “We are amidst a historic campaign unlike any other. This is a critical operation to prevent an existential threat, by an enemy who is intent on destroying us,” he said.

    Israeli Minister Gideon Saar was holding “marathon of calls” with counterparts around the world regarding Israel’s attack on Iran, the foreign ministry said in a statement.

    U.S. “NOT INVOLVED”

    U.S. President Donald Trump would convene a meeting of the National Security Council on Friday morning, the White House said.

    Iran’s armed forces spokesperson said Israel and its chief ally the United States would pay a “heavy price” for the attack, accusing Washington of providing support for the operation.

    An Israeli official told Israel public broadcaster Kan that Israel had coordinated with Washington on the strikes.

    U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio however said the United States was not involved and Tel Aviv had acted unilaterally for self-defence.

    “We are not involved in strikes against Iran and our top priority is protecting American forces in the region,” Rubio said in a statement.

    “Let me be clear: Iran should not target U.S. interests or personnel,” he added.

    The State Department issued an advisory saying that all U.S. government employees in Israel and their family members should “shelter in place until further notice”.

    The attacks triggered sharp falls in stock prices in early Asian trade on Friday, led by a selloff in U.S. futures, while oil prices jumped as investors scurried to safe havens such as gold and the Swiss franc.

    NUCLEAR TALKS DEADLOCKED

    U.S. and Iranian officials were scheduled to hold a sixth round of talks on Tehran’s escalating uranium enrichment program in Oman on Sunday, according to officials from both countries and their Omani mediators. But the talks have appeared to be deadlocked.

    Trump said on Thursday an Israeli strike on Iran “could very well happen” but reiterated his hopes for a peaceful resolution.

    A source familiar with U.S. intelligence reports said there has been no recent change in the U.S. intelligence assessment that Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and that Khamenei has not authorised the restarting of the nuclear weapons program that was shuttered in 2003.

    Even so, U.S. intelligence had indicated that Israel was preparing a strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities.

    The U.S. military was planning for the full range of contingencies in the Middle East, including the possibility that it might have to help evacuate American civilians, a U.S. official told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity.

    (Reuters)

  • Air India Dreamliner crashes after takeoff from Ahmedabad, 241 dead, one survivor: Air India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon, killing 241 people in what is being described as one of the worst aviation disasters in India’s history. Only one passenger survived.

    Flight AI-171, en route from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, went down minutes after departing from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:38 p.m. IST. The aircraft plunged into a residential complex near BJ Medical College, triggering a massive fire and a large-scale emergency response across the city.

    According to Air India, the flight was carrying 242 people — 230 passengers and 12 crew members, including two pilots. The sole survivor, a British national of Indian origin seated in 11A, is currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital.

    The airline confirmed the tragedy in an official statement on X, saying, “UPDATE: Air India confirms that flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick on 12 June 2025, was involved in an accident. The 12-year-old Boeing 787-8 aircraft departed from Ahmedabad at 1338 hrs, carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew. The aircraft crashed shortly after take-off. We regret to inform that, of the 242 aboard, there are 241 confirmed fatalities. The sole survivor is being treated in a hospital.”

    Air India also released a breakdown of the passengers’ nationalities: 169 were Indian, 53 British, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian.

    The airline extended its condolences to the families of the deceased and said a dedicated team has been deployed in Ahmedabad to provide support.
    “Our efforts now are focused entirely on the needs of all those affected, their families and loved ones,” the statement read.

    Air India has pledged full cooperation with the authorities investigating the cause of the crash. Dedicated helplines have been set up for families seeking information. Domestic callers can reach 1800 5691 444, while international callers can dial +91 8062779200.

    -IANS

  • Trump can keep National Guard deployed to Los Angeles for now, appeals court rules

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A U.S. appeals court on Thursday allowed President Donald Trump to maintain his deployment of National Guard troops in Los Angeles amid protests over stepped-up immigration enforcement, temporarily pausing a lower court’s ruling blocking the mobilization.

    The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision does not mean that the court will ultimately agree with Trump, but it means he will maintain command of the guard for now.

    Earlier on Thursday, San Francisco-based U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer found that Trump’s deployment of the Guard was unlawful. Breyer had ordered the National Guard to return to the control of California Governor Gavin Newsom, who had brought the case.

    It was a short-lived victory for Newsom, as Breyer’s order was paused a short time later.

    The appeals court decision stands to leave in place the dynamic of weeklong street demonstrations that have been concentrated in downtown Los Angeles, largely at a federal detention center where National Guard troops have stood watch.

    The Guard had also accompanied Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents on operations.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Kelly condemns Trump’s recissions package that steals from PEPFAR, Sesame Street, American people

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Robin Kelly IL

    House Republicans voted down Rep. Kelly’s Motion to Recommit to protect PEPFAR from recissions package

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) condemned the Trump administration’s recissions package that requests Congress to cancel $9.4 billion already appropriated by Congress.

    Rep. Kelly offered a Motion to Recommit, which would have allowed her amendment to protect the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) from the $400 million cuts in the recissions package. PEPFAR is the most successful global health program to combat HIV and AIDS and has saved 26 million lives since 2003 when President George W. Bush signed it into law.

    WATCH REP. KELLY’S FLOOR REMARKS HERE

    “President Trump wants to claw back $9.4 billion dollars that were already appropriated by Congress. For years, my Republican colleagues have claimed Congress’s constitutional power of the purse – but after one call from the President, they bend the knee and forked over $9.4 billion that belonged to the American people,” said Rep. Kelly. “President Trump continues his attack against PEPFAR, a program cornerstone to global health and US diplomacy. By refusing to fund PEPFAR, President Trump and his House Republicans have handed a death sentence to people around the world facing HIV and AIDS. He also weakens America’s global standing, abandons our moral responsibility, and opens an opportunity for China to take advantage. Rescinding these funds won’t solve our country’s deficit problem but rather destroy lives in the US and abroad.”

    The recissions package also cuts $1.1 billion from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, including NPR and PBS programming like Sesame Street.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Brad Sherman Statement on Israel’s Justified Attack on Iranian Nuclear Capabilities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32), a Senior Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee for 29 years, released the following statement on Israel’s attack on Iranian nuclear capabilities:

    “Under the circumstances, what Israel has done is understandable and justified. 

    Earlier today, for the first time in 20 years, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) board declared that Iran was in breach of its non-proliferation obligations under the Safeguards Agreement that Iran itself signed. Iran was extremely close to several nuclear bomb. Israel could not wait while Iran pretended to negotiate in good faith while racing towards a bomb.

    The second wave has already begun and we expect many days and perhaps weeks of additional action. Substantial damage has been done to Iran’s nuclear program. However, the status of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile is yet to be known.

    It’s regrettable that Iran’s decades of violation of the non proliferation treaty which it signed has led us to a point where this is necessary. While the U.S. pulled out of the 2014 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) agreement, Iran has been bound by the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) Safeguards Agreement it signed decades ago and which the IAEA determined it violated.

    Israel did not take this step lightly. There will be retaliation from Iran, and likely also from the Houthis and Hezbollah. Many Israeli civilians will be killed.  Israel took this action because it believed it had no other choice. 

    Israel could not wait until Iran had a stockpile of nuclear weapons ready to be launched.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Mast issues Statement on Israel’s Preemptive Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Program

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast issued the following statement after Israel launched preemptive strikes on Iran’s nuclear program. 

    “A year ago, Iran sent three Americans home under flag-draped caskets who were killed at Tower 22. Within the last three months, Iran attacked Navy warships. What Israel’s preemptive strike ensured tonight is that Iran’s next attack will not be with a nuclear weapon.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –