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Category: AM-NC

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Ciscomani Backs Legislation Advancing Tax Relief, Border Security

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Ciscomani (Arizona)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani issued the following statement today after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1, otherwise known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”:

    “Today’s vote for H.R. 1, the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill Act,’ funds border security, strengthens our national defense, and stops the largest tax hike in U.S. history while instead delivering real tax relief for working families — including expanding the child tax credit, eliminating taxes on tips, overtime, and tax relief for seniors, and giving families more flexibility to save for college and healthcare. It cracks down on fraud and abuse in Medicaid through common-sense work requirements and better eligibility checks, with no cuts to FMAP which would have endangered the access to care for many in need. These steps help ensure that we protect Medicaid’s solvency so that it continues to serve our most vulnerable. And while there was a change regarding provider taxes, our rural and urban low-income serving hospitals will now have access to a new $50 billion hospital fund. 
     
    “I am grateful to the many stakeholders across our district who shared their expertise, personal stories, and insights over the last few months as we worked through the reconciliation process. H.R. 1 is not perfect – no bill ever is. But it includes many provisions that I know my constituents in southeastern Arizona support. There is more work to do, and I look forward to continuing to work together for our district and community.”

    Background
    The following are key provisions of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Act:

    TAX CUTS

    • H.R. 1 delivers the largest middle- and working-class tax cut in U.S. history by extending the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. If the 2017 Tax Cuts were left to expire:
      • The average taxpayer in AZ-06 would see a 24% tax hike
      • A family of 4 making $73,464, the median income in AZ-06, would see a $1,480 tax increase
      • 80,270 AZ-06 families would see their household’s child tax credits cut in half
      • 89% of AZ-06 taxpayers would see their Guaranteed Deduction slashed in half
      • 81,320 small businesses in AZ-06 would be hit with a 43.4% tax rate if the 199A Small Business Deduction expires
      • 8,216 AZ-06 taxpayers would be impacted by the return of the Alternative Minimum Tax
      • 1,545 family-owned farms in AZ-06 would have their Death Tax Exemption slashed in half next year
    • The bill also provides additional tax relief to American families, seniors, small businesses, and workers through:
      • No tax on tips
      • No tax on overtime
      • No tax on car loan interests for American made cars
      • Ensuring 88% of all seniors who receive Social Security will pay NO TAX on their Social Security benefits
      • Repealing the unpopular 1099-K reporting requirement that all Venmo, PayPal, and gig transactions over $600 be reported to the IRS
      • Incentivizing businesses to produce their goods in the U.S.

    BORDER SECURITY

    • The bill makes historic investments in border security through the following provisions:
      Adds 3,000 new U.S. Border Patrol agents, 5,000 new Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers, and 200 new Air and Marine Operations (AMO) agents, and 290 support staff
    • Allocates more than $46 billion to construct and complete the border barrier system by building 701 miles of primary wall, 900 miles of river barriers, 629 miles of secondary barriers, as well as replacing 141 miles of vehicle and pedestrian barriers
    • Includes more than $6 billion to help CBP interdict more fentanyl, deploy more border-surveillance technology, enhance AMO’s surveillance capabilities, and increase CBP’s use of the biometric entry and exit system

    NATIONAL SECURITY

    • Additionally, the bill invests $150 billion into our national security by restoring American deterrence, revitalizing our defense industrial base, and modernizing our military through provisions like:
      Jump starting the Golden Dome initiative by investing $25 million in a layered missile defense shield.
    • Provides critical resources to the Department of Defense to support securing the southern border, because border security is national security
    • Investing $9 billion to improve the quality of life for our troops by increasing allowances and special pays, and to renovate aging, moldy barracks and dorms.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HARSHBARGER: President Trump is Proving Nay Sayers Wrong AGAIN

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-TN)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (TN-01) issued the following statement applauding President Donald J. Trump for securing two groundbreaking trade agreements with Indonesia and Japan yesterday: 

    “President Trump just delivered two major trade victories for America. While Democrats have been sowing discord crying about economic disaster, President Trump was doing what he does best, negotiating from strength and putting America first. These deals with Japan and Indonesia are just the beginning of America’s comeback to supercharge our economy and create new jobs. From farmers and cattle producers to auto suppliers and manufacturers, this is the kind of bold, America-first policy that makes a real difference in places like East Tennessee.” – Congresswoman Harshbarger

    BACKGROUND:

    Under these agreements, Indonesia will eliminate 99% of its tariffs on American industrial, tech, and agricultural goods, while Japan is investing $550 billion into the U.S. economy, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs. American-made cars, trucks, rice, beef, critical minerals, and energy will now compete on a level playing field in Indonesia and Japan.

     Tennessee’s First Congressional District is uniquely positioned to benefit from these historic agreements. With a strong base of advanced manufacturing, agricultural production, and exports, the region is now better positioned to reach high-demand markets abroad. Local manufacturers will see new opportunities to export auto parts and precision equipment as barriers come down in Indonesia’s rapidly growing economy.

    At the same time, Northeast Tennessee’s agriculture industry will gain access to tens of millions of new consumers in both Japan and Indonesia thanks to reduced tariffs and expanded agricultural quotas. Japan’s $550 billion investment in the U.S. and Indonesia’s new mineral supply agreements also means long-term growth for Tennessee’s industrial sector and supply chains.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • PM Modi, Maldivian President Muizzu inaugurate new Defence Ministry building in Male

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on Friday jointly inaugurated the state-of-the-art Ministry of Defence (MoD) building of the Maldives in Male.

    Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the eleven-storey building stands as a symbol of the strong and long-standing defence and security cooperation between the two countries. According to a release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the MoD building has been constructed with India’s financial assistance and is expected to enhance the capabilities of the Maldives’ defence and law enforcement authorities.

    In a post on X, the Maldivian President’s Office said, “His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of the Republic of India, inaugurate the Dhoshimeyna Building, the new office premises of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).”

    Prime Minister Modi described the inauguration as another testament to strong India-Maldives cooperation.

    In a post on X, he stated, “President Muizzu and I inaugurated a new building of the Ministry of Defence in Male. This is yet another instance of strong India–Maldives cooperation.”

    Earlier in the day, PM Modi reaffirmed the Maldives’ significance in India’s regional outreach.

    He added, “Held very fruitful discussions with President Muizzu. Maldives is at the core of our ‘Neighbourhood First’ and Mahasagar Vision. Our discussion covered several sectors, notably commercial and cultural linkages. We both agree that the India–Maldives friendship will always be bright and clear. India is honoured to work closely with the Maldives in areas such as housing, connectivity, infrastructure, defence, digital technology, and more. Climate change and renewable energy are also two vital pillars of our bilateral cooperation.”

    In a further gesture of goodwill, PM Modi gifted two Aarogya Maitri Health Cubes to President Muizzu on behalf of the Government of India.

    In a post on X, the President’s Office shared, “His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu accepts two Aarogya Maitri Health Cubes gifted by His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, on behalf of the Government of India to the Maldives. The state-of-the-art portable hospitals are equipped with an ICU, operating theatre, laboratory, X-ray, and other emergency medical facilities. Each unit can operate independently for 72 hours and treat up to 200 individuals.”

    Prime Minister Modi is currently on a two-day visit to the Maldives at the invitation of President Muizzu.

    (ANI)

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: USS John L. Canley and Royal New Zealand Navy Conduct Talisman Sabre AUV Operations

    Source: United States Navy

    GLADSTONE, Australia — Sailors from the Royal Australian Navy, Royal New Zealand Navy and the U.S. Navy embarked the Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary sea base USS John L. Canley (ESB 6) to conduct integrated mine countermeasures operations during exercise Talisman Sabre, July 13-19, 2025

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: USNS Comfort Arrives in Limón, Costa Rica for CP25

    Source: United States Navy

    LIMÓN, Costa Rica – The Mercy-class hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) arrived in Limón, Costa Rica, July 24, 2025, for the fifth mission stop of Continuing Promise 2025 (CP25). This visit marks the sixth CP mission stop to Costa Rica since its inception in 2007, and the third visit aboard Comfort in support of CP.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: How to Inform Investors About Complex Financial Products

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Information about such products should be placed in special sections of websites and mobile applications. It will be available to the user after he confirms the status of a qualified investor and becomes familiar with the risks of these instruments.

    The recommendations are aimed at reducing the likelihood of unqualified investors being forced to buy complex financial instruments that could result in losses.

    Let us recall that, according to the law, financial market participants are prohibited from offering a number of complex financial products to unqualified investors.

    Preview photo: Sacred Spark Art / Shutterstock / Fotodom

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Tatyana Golikova held a meeting of the Russian Tripartite Commission for the Regulation of Social and Labor Relations

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova held the next meeting of the Russian Tripartite Commission for the Regulation of Social and Labor Relations.

    The meeting considered and supported by the parties the draft federal law “On Amendments to the Labor Code of the Russian Federation”, developed on the instructions of the President of Russia Vladimir Putin with the aim of improving the provisions governing the apprenticeship contract. Thus, it was proposed to supplement Chapter 32 of the Labor Code with provisions specifying the status of apprenticeship contracts, the obligations of the parties, as well as the types of programs mastered during the apprenticeship period. In addition, it was proposed to include individual entrepreneurs in the circle of persons who are allowed to conclude apprenticeship contracts. For the apprentice, the bill provides for guarantees of employment, as well as the payment of a scholarship at the expense of the employer for the entire period of training. The employer, in turn, will be able to return the funds spent on training in cases where the apprentice has not fulfilled the obligations specified in the contract. In addition, the bill provides for a mechanism for co-financing the costs of employers at the expense of the budgets of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation. It is expected that the expansion of the practice of using apprenticeship contracts will become an effective mechanism for training qualified personnel, which will help solve the problem of staffing, and will also become a social lift for workers, as it will open up prospects for successful employment, career growth and increased wages.

    The commission members also discussed and supported the draft federal law “On Amending Article 1 of the Federal Law “On the Minimum Wage”, according to which, from January 1, 2026, the minimum wage will increase by 20.7% and will amount to 27,093 rubles. The adoption of the bill will lead to an increase in wages for about 4.6 million workers.

    In addition, the members of the RTC were presented with reports on the activities of two regional tripartite commissions for the regulation of social and labor relations – the Leningrad Region and the Republic of Dagestan.

    Other issues were also considered at the meeting. Among them:

    draft federal laws “On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation (in terms of optimizing the mechanism for the implementation by certain categories of citizens of the rights to receive social protection measures (support), state social assistance provided at the expense of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation, as well as improving the activities of the Pension and Social Insurance Fund of the Russian Federation)” and “On Amendments to Article 138⁶ of the Budget Code of the Russian Federation”;

    draft federal law “On the expected period of payment of funded pensions for 2026”;

    draft federal law “On Amendments to Article 69 of the Federal Law “On the Fundamentals of Health Protection of Citizens in the Russian Federation” and the Federal Law “On Education in the Russian Federation”;

    draft resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation “On Amendments to the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of March 30, 2022 No. 511”;

    draft resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation “On the transfer of days off in 2026”.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: On July 25 at 15:00 a press conference will be held on the results of the meeting of the Board of Directors on monetary policy

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The event will be attended by the Chairman of the Bank of Russia Elvira Nabiullina and the Deputy Chairman of the Bank of Russia Alexey Zabotkin.

    Elvira Nabiullina will make a statement on monetary policy and medium-term forecast.

    The press conference will be held at the Bank of Russia press center. The broadcast of the speech will be available on our website, channel inTelegram, as well as on the official page in“VKontakte”.

    Accreditation for journalists is open until 17:00 on July 23 at the address Media@kbr.ru.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: The Russian market has launched an index of benchmark stock issuers

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    “Companies from the financial and non-financial sectors were among the applicants for inclusion in the Program,” notes Ekaterina Abasheeva, Director of the Bank of Russia’s Corporate Relations Department. “Following the review of applications, several issuers demonstrating the necessary institutional quality were selected. We hope that they will grow into a new generation of blue chips — companies that adhere to high standards of corporate governance and are interested in increasing their investment attractiveness. Together with the Moscow Exchange, we will continue to work on forming a pool of high-quality issuers participating in the Program.”

    The decision to include shares in the index is made by a committee, which includes representatives of the Bank of Russia, Moscow Exchange, and the Analytical Credit Rating Agency. The committee evaluates corporate governance, the level of information transparency of the issuer, and its financial and economic indicators. The status of a participant in the Program must be confirmed at least once a year. Issuers whose shares are included in the first or second level of the Moscow Exchange listing can participate in it.

    Preview photo: Igor Paszkiewicz / Shutterstock / Fotodom

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: Partner Financing Experiment Extended Until September 2028

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Law, which extends the experiment in partnership financing, also provides for the improvement of its mechanisms. The law was adopted by the State Duma and approved by the Federation Council.

    The experiment will be carried out from September 1, 2023, on the territory of Bashkortostan, Dagestan, Tatarstan and the Chechen Republic. It was initially announced for two years.

    The law expands the list of partnership financing operations, including opening accounts by banks that have the appropriate license. The list of operations also includes mutual insurance.

    A special committee will be created to approve standards for partner funding. Companies should indicate in their advertising that they are participants in the experiment.

    In addition, the list of grounds for refusing to include organizations in the register of experiment participants is being expanded, as well as the list of grounds for exclusion from it. This will reduce the risks of unscrupulous companies participating in the experiment.

    The purpose of the law is to create a more correct and uniform provision of partnership financing services, to increase the transparency and attractiveness of the experiment, including for foreign investors.

    Preview photo: Ele Sviridova / Shutterstock / Fotodom

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Bank of Russia to supervise installment service operators

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Laws The State Duma adopted a resolution on requirements for installment service operators and contracts with them.

    Now sellers and installment service operators (intermediaries between the seller and the buyer) will not be able to disguise interest on deferred payments by setting different prices for goods in installments and for cash. The amount of fines that installment service operators can collect from users is also limited.

    In addition, if the citizen’s installment obligations exceed 50 thousand rubles, the service operator will be obliged transfer this information to the credit bureau. This will help banks and microfinance organizations assess the level of a person’s debt burden when applying for a loan or credit. Thus, citizens will be better protected from debt overload and default risks.

    Legislators also gradually limited the maximum period of interest-free installments: from April 1, 2026 – 6 months, from April 1, 2028 – 4 months.

    The changes will come into force on April 1, 2026.

    Preview photo: Reshetnikov_art / Shutterstock / Fotodom

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Registration for Finopolis-2025 is open.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The Finopolis Forum of Innovative Financial Technologies is 10 years old. This year it will be held from October 8 to 10 at the Sirius federal territory. You can register atwebsite.

    The forum will be attended by the management of the Bank of Russia, representatives of relevant ministries and departments, leading financial and digital fintech companies, as well as opinion leaders in the field of technology. They will discuss trends and vectors of development of financial technologies in various segments of the financial market.

    According to established tradition, an exhibition will open for forum guests, where the latest achievements in the field of innovation will be presented.

    Preview photo: Elizaveta Ageenko / Bold Friday Studio

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Grigorenko: The government has simplified the procedure for issuing permits for businesses

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The simplified format for issuing licenses and permits in Russia is enshrined in amendments to 69 federal laws. Today, they were approved by the Federation Council. The project lasted four years. During this time, the terms for issuing permits were shortened and the number of required documents was reduced, papers were transferred to electronic form and to a registry model. The project was implemented under the supervision of Deputy Prime Minister – Head of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko.

    The work was carried out as part of an experiment and included more than 400 government services, all of which became available on the government services portal. In 2024 alone, about 9.5 million applications for various types of permits were received. Without a positive decision on these applications, it is illegal to carry out permitting activities.

    The adoption of the law allows us to consolidate the results of the optimization of the permitting process. Thus, thanks to the project, the time for issuing permits has been halved (from 43 to 19 days on average) and the number of documents from applicants (from 8 to 4 documents). Some types of permitting activities have been transferred to a registry model. This has made it possible to abandon paper permits in favor of entries in electronic registers, in which case it is no longer necessary to obtain and store a document on a form.

    “The government is creating conditions for comfortable business in Russia. Optimizing the process of obtaining permits is an important part of this work. We have digitalized the entire procedure: from collecting documents and submitting an application to issuing the permit itself. Entrepreneurs no longer need to duplicate information – government agencies receive it through interdepartmental data exchange. This approach has made it possible to halve the number of requested documents and the time it takes to obtain permits. That is, the procedure is simplified through digital tools without reducing the overall level of security,” commented Deputy Prime Minister and Head of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko.

    The law establishes the possibility of obtaining comprehensive permits in electronic form. This format has been available on the public services portal since June of this year. In particular, the comprehensive services “Opening a Pharmacy” and “Certification of Forest Management Specialists” were launched. The user only needs to submit one application to receive a number of permits at once, which are necessary for carrying out a particular entrepreneurial activity.

    The public services portal also implements six services that provide proactive provision of permits from Rosrybolovstvo, FMBA, Rostransnadzor and Rosmorrechflot. Thus, portal users receive a notification about the need to extend permits. At the same time, the application for registration of such documents is pre-filled automatically taking into account up-to-date information from other state systems. Proactive provision of services for issuing permits is also enshrined in law.

    Amendments to 69 federal laws were prepared by the Ministry of Economic Development, adopted by the State Duma and supported by the Federation Council.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP food trucks keep moving inside Gaza as hunger deepens and restrictions persist

    Source: World Food Programme

    GAZA, Palestine – The UN World Food Programme (WFP) continues to deliver life-saving food assistance inside Gaza as the fear of starvation intensifies.

    Here are the latest updates on WFP operations and food insecurity:

    WFP Operations
    •    Since 21 May, when border crossings re-opened to aid, WFP has offloaded 1,387 trucks with over 26,000 metric tons (MT) of life-saving food assistance to holding areas via the Kerem Shalom (south) and Zikim (north) border crossing points.
    •    Trucks within Gaza are then required to come to these holding areas to pick-up the food for further transport into Gaza.
    •    WFP teams inside Gaza have been able to collect over 22,000MT of this food aid from the holding areas. A total of 1,833 trucks have been dispatched to reach starving civilians inside Gaza.
    •    Despite these efforts, the quantity of food aid delivered to date is still a tiny fraction of what a population of over two million people need to survive. Just to cover basic humanitarian food assistance needs, more than 62,000 MT is required every month.
    •    Access to essential fresh and nutritious produce such as fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, and dairy products require commercial cargo to be reinstated into Gaza. 
    •    The truck fleet used by WFP requires regular maintenance and bringing spare parts into Gaza remains a significant challenge.
    •    As of 25 July 2025, there is now roughly 3,500 MT of WFP cargo (the equivalent of 300 trucks) ready to be collected from holding areas for collection and distribution inside Gaza.
    o    Food aid awaiting collection in the border holding areas is consistently assessed to ensure that all food aid meets global safety and quality standards.
    •    In the past week alone (19 July to 25 July) – WFP has dispatched 349 trucks carrying an estimated 4,200MT of vital food aid into Gaza.
    •    During this same period (19 July to 25 July 2025):
    o    WFP requested permission for 138 aid convoys to collect cargo from the holding area to be delivered to hungry families inside Gaza. Only 76 requests were approved – just over half
    o    Once food aid is loaded, convoys are typically delayed, waiting up to 46 hours before receiving final permissions to travel along approved routes within Gaza. During these delays crowds of hungry people often anticipate the arrival of our trucks and gather along the expected transport routes which are too few.
    o    Once released, it can take convoys up to 12 hours, on average, to complete their missions. 
    o    Only two border crossing points have been cleared for WFP use. More dependable and safer convoy routes inside Gaza are needed to prevent crowds gathering along the limited routes.
    o    So far, only 60 truck drivers have been vetted and approved by authorities to transport vital food assistance inside Gaza. More are urgently needed.

    Security Risks to Humanitarian Convoys
    •    Each delay to aid convoys entering Gaza means more starving people gathering along known routes hoping to intercept trucks transporting food assistance.
    •    When aid trucks are held at checkpoints or re-routed multiple times, WFP teams and crowding civilians are exposed to significant risk: active hostilities, drone surveillance, sniper fire, and bombardments.
    •    Deadly incidents near humanitarian convoys continue. Any violence involving civilians seeking humanitarian aid is completely unacceptable.
    •    Israeli authorities have provided assurances that more trucks will be able to carry food aid into Gaza using more routes and border crossing points with faster clearances, dependable communications, and without armed forces nearby.
    •    Since 23rd July, WFP has seens faster food convoy approvals and movements but requires a sustained commitment to avert the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

     
    Food Needs Inside Gaza
    •    The desperate need for food inside Gaza has reached astonishing levels. 
    •    People are dying due to a lack of humanitarian assistance.
    •    A recent WFP assessment found nearly one person in three is not eating for days at a time.
    •    Some 470,000 people are enduring famine-like conditions (Catastrophic hunger – IPC Phase 5).
    •    Malnutrition is surging and some 90,000 children and women urgently need treatment.
    •    Food aid is the only real way for people to eat.

    Requirements to Scale Operations
    •    WFP stands ready to further scale up and deliver life-saving assistance directly to the most vulnerable families in need. For this, WFP reiterates its calls for:
    •    At least 100 aid trucks per day to be allowed through northern, central and southern border points in a sustained and predictable manner.
    •    Faster loading and dispatching of trucks from crossing points into Gaza. 
    •    No armed presence nor shooting near convoy routes or civilian aid distribution points.
    •    Uninterrupted connectivity to allow humanitarian organizations to coordinate effectively.
    •    A sustained ceasefire that creates the necessary conditions for safe, scaled, and impactful humanitarian aid.
    •    WFP has over 170,000 metric tons of food in or on its way to the region – enough to feed the entire population of 2.1 million people for almost three months.
    •    We have experienced teams on the ground, and proven systems in place to respond at scale.
    #                #            #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Joly to participate in a site visit at Algoma Steel

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 24, 2025 – Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

    The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, will be participating in a site visit at Algoma Steel.

    Date: Monday, July 28, 2025

    Time: 9:00 a.m. (ET) tour

    Location: Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

    Members of the media are asked to contact ISED Media Relations at media@ised-isde.gc.ca to receive event location details and confirm their attendance.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley, Markey Reintroduce Freedom to Move Act, Legislation to Enact Fare-Free Transit, Close Transit Equity Gap

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Bill Builds Upon Successful Pilot Programs in Massachusetts, Supports State and Local Implementation of Fare-Free Public Transit

    Bill Text

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) announced the reintroduction of the Freedom to Move Act, legislation to support state and local efforts to establish public transportation as a public good through fare-free services. The legislation builds upon successful fare-free pilot programs in Boston and with leadership from Regional Transit Authorities across the Commonwealth. In particular, the Worcester Regional Transit Authority and the Merrimack Valley Transit (MeVa) have among the longest-running and most successful fare-free transit programs in the country.

    “Fare free transit is an economic, racial, and climate justice issue, and it’s high time we invest in public transit as the public good that it is,” said Rep Pressley. “Making our transit infrastructure fare free will help folks access essential resources like jobs, school, child care, the grocery store, and the hospital while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making our communities more connected. Our bill would build on the success of fare-free pilot programs in Boston and across the Commonwealth by making robust investments to provide safe, high-quality, and fare-free rides for all. I’m grateful to Senator Markey, Mayor Wu, and our transit justice advocates for their ongoing partnership.”

    “All across Massachusetts and the country, more communities are joining the fare free revolution,” said Senator Markey. “By making public transit free, we can alleviate the high burden of transportation costs on working families while building a system that is more accessible and efficient. Free buses and trains also mean less traffic congestion, cleaner air, and a safer work environment for transit workers. That is why I am proud to partner with Congresswoman Pressley to deliver resources that will make our communities more affordable and connected.”

    “Fare-free transit is an investment in the public good and in our economy and communities,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Boston’s fare-free bus routes have had the highest ridership of the entire bus system, and we’ve seen improved service from buses being able to load faster at each stop. Most of all, commuters no longer have to ration trips to connect all the pieces of their lives—getting to work and school, or to shop at our local businesses or enjoy a meal, or to access critical healthcare to take care of their families. I’m grateful to Congresswoman Pressley and Senator Markey for their leadership and continued advocacy.”

    Full text of the Freedom to Move Act is available here.

    Low-income families have faced the biggest financial burden by spending nearly 30 percent of their household income on transportation expenses. Traffic congestion has also worsened greenhouse gas emissions and pollution, exacerbating climate change and contributing to health disparities like asthma and lung cancer in marginalized communities.

    Increasing access to free, safe, reliable, and accessible public transit systems will help improve community livability and mobility, increase connectivity to critical services—particularly for low-income workers and families, people of color, students, seniors, and people with disabilities—and address many of our nation’s most severe inequities.

    The Freedom to Move Act would support state and local efforts to promote public transportation as a public good for all by:

    • Establishing a $5 billion competitive grant program per year to support state and local efforts to implement fare-free public transportation systems;
    • Investing in efforts to improve the safety and quality of public transportation services, particularly in low-income and historically underserved communities; and
    • Ensuring grantees use funds to address and close equity gaps in current transit systems.

    Co-sponsors of the Freedom to Move Act include Senator Elizabeth Warren and Representatives Alma Adams, Joyce Beatty, Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., Shontel M. Brown, André Carson, Emanuel Cleaver, James Clyburn, Jasmine Crockett, Danny K. Davis, Cleo Fields, Jonathan Jackson, Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr., Summer L. Lee, LaMonica McIver, Gwen Moore, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Ilhan Omar, Delia Ramirez, Lateefah Simon, Rashida Tlaib, and Nikema Williams.

    Rep. Pressley and Sen. Markey originally introduced the Freedom to Move Act in June 2020. Following the bill’s introduction, Senator Markey, Congresswoman Pressley, and then-Councilor Michelle Wu published an op-ed that discussed the bill and the need to fund public transportation as a public good.

    In July 2020, the House of Representatives passed the Moving Forward Act that included a fare-free pilot program modeled after the two lawmakers Freedom to Move Act.

    In March 2021, Senator Markey and Congresswoman Pressley reintroduced the Freedom to Move Act.

    In August 2021, Rep. Pressley and Senator Markey called on the MBTA to make the entire T fare-free for the duration of the Orange Line’s shutdown.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 24 more nomination forms for Election Committee Subsector By-elections received today

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Returning Officers for various subsectors of the 2025 Election Committee (EC) Subsector By-elections received a total of 23 nomination forms for candidates and one nomination form from designated bodies today (July 25). This has brought to 86 the total number of nomination forms for candidates and seven the total number of nomination forms from designated bodies received since nominations for the By-elections opened on July 22. The nomination period will end on August 4.

    If there is a contested election for an EC subsector, a poll will be held on September 7.

    The By-elections will fill a total of 93 vacancies in the membership of the EC to be returned by election involving 28 subsectors. The breakdown of nomination forms received for the relevant subsectors is set out below:

    First Sector
    Subsector No. of nomination forms for candidates received today Cumulative total
    Catering 1 1
    Commercial (first) 2 2
    Commercial (second) 0 1
    Commercial (third) 0 2
    Employers’ Federation of Hong Kong 0 1
    Hotel 0 1
    Import and export 0 2
    Industrial (first) 1 1
    Industrial (second) 0 1
    Real estate and construction 1 2
    Small and medium enterprises 0 1
    Tourism 0 1
    Transport 1 1
    Second Sector
    Subsector No. of nomination forms for candidates received today Cumulative total
    Architectural, surveying, planning and landscape 1 1
    Chinese medicine 0 1
    Education 2 2
    Legal 1 1
    Medical and health services 0 0
    Sports, performing arts, culture and publication 0 1
    Technology and innovation 5 5
    Third Sector
    Subsector No. of nomination forms for candidates received today Cumulative total
    Agriculture and fisheries 1 1
    Associations of Chinese fellow townsmen 1 7
    Grassroots associations 4 8
    Labour 0 3
    Fourth Sector
    Subsector No. of nomination forms for candidates received today Cumulative total
    Heung Yee Kuk 0 0
    Representatives of members of Area Committees, District Fight Crime Committees, and District Fire Safety Committees of Hong Kong and Kowloon 0 5
    Representatives of members of Area Committees, District Fight Crime Committees, and District Fire Safety Committees of the New Territories 1 8
    Fifth Sector
    Subsector No. of nomination forms for candidates received today Cumulative total
    Representatives of Hong Kong members of relevant national organisations 1 26
    Total: 23 86

    Besides, 10 vacancies involving five subsectors to be returned by nomination will be filled through supplementary nominations by designated bodies. The breakdown of nomination forms received for the relevant subsectors is set out below:

    Accountancy
    Designated body No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today Cumulative total
    Association of Hong Kong Accounting Advisors Limited 0 1 (3 nominees in total)
    Sports, performing arts, culture and publication
    Designated body No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today Cumulative total
    Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China 0 1 (1 nominee in total)
    Hong Kong Publishing Federation Limited 0 1 (1 nominee in total)
    Technology and innovation
    Designated body No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today Cumulative total
    The Greater Bay Area Association of Academicians 1 (1 nominee in total) 1 (1 nominee in total)
    Religious
    Designated body No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today Cumulative total
    Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong 0 0
    Chinese Muslim Cultural and Fraternal Association 0 1 (1 nominee in total)
    The Hong Kong Taoist Association 0 1 (2 nominees in total)
    Representatives of associations of Hong Kong residents in the Mainland
    Designated body No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today Cumulative total
    Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China—Guangdong 0 1 (1 nominee in total)
    Total: 1 (1 nominee in total) 7 (10 nominees in total)

    Particulars of the nominated persons received today will be uploaded to the election website (www.elections.gov.hk).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected cannabis buds worth about $5.4 million at airport (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Hong Kong Customs detected two drug trafficking cases involving baggage concealment at Hong Kong International Airport today (July 25) and seized a total of about 25.2 kilograms of suspected cannabis buds with an estimated market value of about $5.4 million.

    The first case involved a male passenger, aged 34, who arrived in Hong Kong from Bangkok, Thailand today. During customs clearance, the suspected cannabis buds, weighing about 16 kg, were found inside his check-in suitcase. The man was subsequently arrested.

    In the second case, a 27-year-old male passenger arrived in Hong Kong from Bangkok, Thailand today. During customs clearance, a total of about 9.2 kg of suspected cannabis buds were seized in his check-in suitcases. The man was subsequently arrested.

    The arrested man of the first case has been charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug. The case will be brought up at the Kowloon City Magistrates’ Court tomorrow (July 26). The investigation of the second case is ongoing.

    Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.

    Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.

    Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.

    Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002/en).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: L-105 raises $10,000 for local hospice

    Source: US International Brotherhood of Boilermakers

    This year, we were fortunate enough to give Hospice a donation of $10,000, the largest donation we have ever given them. We are very thankful for everyone involved with this event and hope to keep it going for many years to come.

    Joseph Ledford, L-105 BM-ST

    Local 105 (Chillicothe, Ohio) raised $10,000 for Southern Ohio Medical Center Hospice in the lodge’s 30th annual golf tournament on May 24.

    The 25 teams participated in the outing hosted at the Elk’s Country Club in McDermott, Ohio. 

    “This year, we were fortunate enough to give Hospice a donation of $10,000, the largest donation we have ever given them. We are very thankful for everyone involved with this event and hope to keep it going for many years to come,” said L-105 Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Ledford.

    The donation, raised by the tournament and through the generosity of sponsors and volunteers, supports the vital work of SOMC Hospice in providing care to patients and their loved ones throughout Southern Ohio.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Buffalo arrests Salvadoran national, convicted child predator

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Buffalo arrested Salvadoran national Jacobo Argueta Fuentes pursuant to a warrant of deportation upon his release from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision July 23 in Ossining.

    This 33-year-old illegal alien and child sexual predator has been convicted of seven counts of rape; two counts of using a child in a sexual performance; four counts of sexual abuse; two counts of promoting prostitution; criminal sex act and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

    “This criminal alien is a vile human who depravedly victimized and sexually exploited innocent children in the state of New York,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Buffalo Deputy Field Office Director Joseph Freden. “ICE will not tolerate those who engage in this despicable and horrific behavior against children. We will pursue these loathsome criminals and seek their removal from the United States with the utmost urgency.”

    Argueta illegally entered the U.S. at an unknown date and location without inspection or admission by an immigration official. On March 1, 2019, immigration officers encountered Argueta at the Riverhead Correctional Facility in Suffolk County, where he admitted he entered the U.S. by illegally crossing the international U.S.-Mexico land border around 2011. The New York State county court convicted Argueta Jan. 9, 2020, and sentenced him to six years in prison.   

    ICE lodged an immigration detainer with the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision May 16, 2023, against Argueta’s release from custody. An immigration judge ordered him removed from the U.S. Dec. 17, 2024. He is in ICE custody pending execution of that order.

    Learn more about ERO Buffalo’s mission to preserve public safety on X at @EROBuffalo.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 580, Combating CCP Labor Abuses Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 580 would require the Department of Commerce to periodically train employees who provide counseling services to businesses engaged in interstate commerce or foreign direct investment on global human rights abuses perpetrated against the Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities by the government of the People’s Republic of China. The bill also would direct the agency to provide guidance to such businesses, including ways to avoid doing business with countries implicated in human rights abuses.

    CBO expects that the department would conduct training and update guidance once every three years starting in 2026. Using information from the department, CBO estimates that implementing S. 580 would cost $2 million over the 2025-2030 period for temporary staff, contracts for online courses, and printed guides. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Margot Berman. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Announces Four Gubernatorial Appointments

    Source: US State of Missouri

    JULY 25, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced three appointments to various boards and one commission.

    Edward C. Clausen, of Centertown, was appointed to the Conservation Commission.

    Mr. Clausen is a partner at Newman, Comley and Ruth P.C., specializing in defending medical malpractice claims. Clausen is an active member of several organizations, including the Conservation Federation of Missouri, the Association of Defense Trial Attorneys, and Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. He previously served on the board of directors for the Friends of the Eleven Point River. Clausen earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri School of Law.

    Belinda Farrington, of Saint Charles, was appointed to the Lincoln University Board of Curators.

    Ms. Farrington is currently a human resources leader at Friendly Temple Church in St. Louis. For over 30 years, Farrington has helped establish comprehensive learning and development programs within St. Louis County departments and divisions. She sits on several boards, including Friendly Village Senior Housing, Robert Fulton Development Corporation, and the Lincoln University Alumni Association. Farrington earned her master’s degree in human resources development from Webster University.

    Colonel Mark McCarter, of Wardsville, was reappointed to the Child Abuse and Neglect Review Board.

    Colonel McCarter is a retired U.S. Army veteran and currently works as a consequence management consultant for M2 Solutions. With almost 30 years of military service, McCarter served in several leadership positions, most recently as the director of plans, operations, training, and readiness before retiring from the Missouri National Guard. McCarter volunteers as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) in Jefferson City and is a member of the Jefferson City Kiwanis Club. McCarter earned a master’s degree in national security from the National War College in Washington, D.C.

    Lyle Rosburg, CPA, of Lohman, was appointed to the Missouri Health Facilities Review Board.

    Mr. Rosburg is the chief financial officer for Williams-Keepers, LLC. He previously served in the same position at Jefferson City Medical Group. Rosburg volunteers for and is an active member of several organizations, including the Mizzou Alumni Association, Jefferson City Host Lions Club, and the Cole County Sheriff’s Department. Rosburg earned a master’s degree in business administration from William Woods University.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New report shows Cap-and-Invest dollars are improving air quality in California’s most polluted communities

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jul 25, 2025

    What you need to know: With support from California’s Cap-and-Invest Program, also known as Cap-and-Trade, the state is funding air protection efforts in 19 communities with some of the highest levels of air pollution in the state. 

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that thanks to California’s Community Air Protection Program, more than four million Californians living in some of the state’s most polluted communities are seeing air quality improvements. A new progress report from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) highlights how community-led solutions are cutting emissions, strengthening enforcement of clean air policies, and delivering cleaner, healthier air around the state. 

    More than $600 million has gone to over 9,000 projects cleaning the air since 2017, funded by the state’s Cap-and-Invest program, also known as Cap-and-Trade.

    “We’re cutting harmful pollution across California with a special focus on communities that have some of the dirtiest air in our state. Thanks to Cap-and-Invest, we’ve invested hundreds of millions of dollars in projects that are proven to clean the air. In the face of a federal government hostile to clean air, we can’t let up now – that’s why we’re working to extend Cap-and-Invest this year.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    As Governor Newsom and legislative leaders continue to work on extending the Cap-and-Invest program, recent reports highlight how critical the program is to the state’s economic future, and how uncertainty is costing the state billions. 

    Turning Cap-and-Invest revenues into lasting air quality gains

    Established in 2017 by Assembly Bill 617 and supported by Cap-and-Invest revenue, the Community Air Protection Program places community voices at the center of efforts to reduce air pollution and protect public health in the state’s most impacted areas.

    In each of the 19 communities the program supports, CARB and the local air districts have established partnerships to develop plans addressing local pollution problems.

    Funded through California’s Cap-and-Invest Program, CARB has directed $632 million to more than 9,000 incentive projects since 2017, with 85% of the funding reaching disadvantaged and low-income communities.

    The projects vary widely across the state based on community priorities including:

    • Swapping out thousands of dirty old lawnmowers with clean electric replacements throughout the San Joaquin Valley.
    • Reducing dust exposure by funding paving of school parking lots, urban greening projects, and installing air filtration systems in schools in the Imperial Valley.
    • Helping fund a first-in-the-nation electric tugboat in the Port of San Diego, which will reduce 30,000 gallons of diesel pollution per year.

    The projects are producing permanent, enforceable reductions in harmful air pollutants, including reducing:

    • 23,000+ tons of nitrogen oxides (NOx)— equivalent to removing about 22.5 million cars from the road for an entire year. 
    • 950 tons of diesel particulate matter — equivalent to annual emissions from up to two million heavy-duty trucks. 
    • 282,600 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions — equivalent to emissions from driving a gasoline-powered car nearly 872 million miles.  

    Expanding the program’s reach

    Adopted in 2023, CARB’s Blueprint 2.0 expands the Community Air Protection Program to 64 communities that continue to experience high pollution burdens. This next phase focuses on:

    • Supporting community-based capacity building and local emissions reduction plan development with grant funding; 48 grants have been awarded in these communities. 
    • Implementing community-focused enforcement strategies.
    • Increasing funding flexibility and efficiency to respond to local needs, such as urban greening projects and indoor air filtration projects.

    To support these communities, the Statewide Mobile Monitoring Initiative (SMMI) was launched in June. The $27 million pilot project uses specially equipped vehicles to collect block-by-block pollution data to support actions to protect public health.

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    Jul 25, 2025

    News What you need to know: California is celebrating the fourth anniversary of the California Cradle-to-Career Data System, which connects datasets from multiple state entities to deliver information on education and workforce outcomes and help students reach their…

    Jul 24, 2025

    News Governor Newsom praises the State Water Board for incorporating the Healthy Rivers and Landscapes Program into the Bay-Delta Plan What you need to know: The Newsom Administration’s innovative Healthy Rivers and Landscapes Program, which improves environmental…

    Jul 24, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement today on a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit striking down California’s ammunition background check law, which was passed by voters in 2016: Strong…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Sacha Deshmukh set to move on from Amnesty International UK at the end of the year

    Source: Amnesty International –

    © Amnesty International UK

    Amnesty International UK today announces that Chief Executive Sacha Deshmukh will step down from his role at the end of 2025, after five years at the helm of the UK section of the global human rights movement. 

    Deshmukh was appointed interim Chief Executive in May 2021 before taking on the role permanently in 2022.  

    Sacha Deshmukh said:  

    “Leading Amnesty International UK has been a huge honour. I first supported Amnesty as a teenager, and the chance to serve as its Chief Executive has been both humbling and inspiring. After nearly 20 years in CEO roles and five deeply rewarding years at Amnesty, this feels like the right moment for a new challenge for me, and to pass the baton here at Amnesty. I love this organisation and will remain a passionate supporter. 

    “Amnesty’s mission is more urgent than ever, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made. Over the coming months, I remain fully committed to ensuring a smooth and successful leadership transition.” 

    Helen Horton, Chair of the Amnesty International UK board said:

    “As Chair of the Amnesty International UK board, I extend my sincere gratitude to Sacha Deshmukh for his unwavering dedication, and exceptional leadership at Amnesty International UK. His commitment to defending human rights and empowering voices in the pursuit of justice has inspired us all. It has been a great pleasure and an honour to have worked with Sacha and I wish him well for the future. Thank you, Sacha, for your tireless efforts and for guiding our organisation with strategic vision and integrity.”

    About Sacha Deshmukh 

    Sacha Deshmukh has spent his career leading high-impact organisations across human rights, international development, public policy and business. before joining Amnesty International UK as Chief Executive in 2021. 

    In addition to his executive roles, Deshmukh has served in a number of governance positions, including as Chair of War Child UK and Citizens Advice England & Wales, and as a non-executive director of the Fundraising Regulator.

    A recruitment process for a new Amnesty International UK Chief Executive will begin shortly. 

    View latest press releases

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Thales Alenia Space signs a contract with the Italian Space Agency (ASI) to develop the first human outpost on the lunar surface

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales Alenia Space signs a contract with the Italian Space Agency (ASI) to develop the first human outpost on the lunar surface

    Thales Alenia Space Italy to build the Multi-Purpose Habitation module for the Moon

    • The Multi-Purpose Habitation module is a key building block in the Artemis roadmap for establishing a permanent human presence on the Moon. It will allow astronauts to live on the lunar surface to conduct science experiments and test initial habitability.
    • By combining module design activities with future collaborations leveraging Italy’s technological and manufacturing capabilities, the company will deliver a secure, comfortable and multifunctional habitat module for astronauts, fully compatible with other systems and components.
    • As part of the Italian Space Agency’s program, this contract strengthens the pivotal roles of Thales Alenia Space Italy and Italy in advancing crewed and robotic space exploration on the Moon and beyond.
    • Lunar exploration will benefit from Thales Alenia Space Italy’s cutting-edge technology, expertise and long experience in space exploration, space transportation systems and orbital infrastructures, that could pave the way for future missions to Mars.

    Rome, July 25, 2025 – Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), has signed a contract with the Italian Space Agency (ASI) to perform the preliminary design phase, including development of critical enabling technologies, of the pressurized Multi-Purpose Habitation (MPH) module for the lunar surface. 

    Multi-Purpose Habitation module © Thales Alenia Space_Briot

    Planned for launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in 2033, the MPH module will be the first ever dedicated habitation asset on the lunar surface as part of the Artemis Accords between NASA and ASI for bilateral Moon cooperation. The MPH module will safely host astronauts during their missions, support surface operations, enable scientific research experiments both with and without the presence of a human crew; and have the capability to move on the surface.

    Designed for a minimum operational lifespan of 10 years, the MPH will serve as a permanent surface habitat, capable of operating synergistically with other elements of the Artemis architecture.

    Part rover, part lunar shelter

    Over the course of the two-year contract, Thales Alenia Space Italy will act as overall prime contractor, working alongside Altec (a public-private company owned by Thales Alenia Space and ASI) and other Italian industrial entities, for the MPH preliminary design phase. The initial development will focus on enabling technologies aimed at facing the harsh environmental conditions on the lunar surface, including extreme thermal variations, pervasive lunar dust, high radiation levels, micrometeoroid impacts, and the effects of reduced lunar gravity. In collaboration with the Industrial consortium members and space agencies, the company will lead the development of the MPH module to advance scientific discovery on the Moon, enable sustainable lunar exploration and drive the knowledge and technologies needed to support human missions to Mars.

    Teodoro Valente, President of the Italian Space Agency, emphasized: “MPH represents yet another scientific challenge for Italy and ASI, which are planning to bring a comfortable and safe human settlement to the lunar surface, thanks to the expertise and high, competitive technological standards that Thales Alenia Space Italy has acquired internationally in the field of space habitability. The future lunar module, the result of the historic relationship between NASA and ASI, is part of a long-term investment vision that Italy has implemented, enabling us to play an increasingly leading role in the new space race and, moreover, to be a fundamental part of the Moon to Mars Strategy of NASA’s Artemis program. Today’s signature confirms the Italian Government’s significant and ongoing commitment to supporting the development of the Space Economy and supporting Italy’s globally recognized excellence. Furthermore, it is important that this act comes just days after Parliament’s approval of the country’s first “Space Law”.

    “We are deeply honored that ASI has entrusted Thales Alenia Space with this contract to develop the MPH, giving us, as a leading European company, the opportunity to drive scientific and technological progress in building the first Italian human outpost on the lunar surface. This milestone will further strengthen and advance human space exploration on the Moon and beyond,” said Giampiero Di Paolo, Deputy CEO and Executive Vice President, Observation, Exploration and Navigation at Thales Alenia Space.

    About THALES ALENIA SPACE

    Drawing on over 40 years of experience and a unique combination of skills, expertise and cultures, Thales Alenia Space delivers cost-effective solutions for telecommunications, navigation, Earth observation, environmental monitoring, exploration, science and orbital infrastructures. Governments and private industry alike count on Thales Alenia Space to design satellite-based systems that provide anytime, anywhere connections and positioning, monitor our planet, enhance management of its resources, and explore our Solar System and beyond. Thales Alenia Space sees space as a new horizon, helping to build a better, more sustainable life on Earth. A joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), Thales Alenia Space also teams up with Telespazio to form the Space Alliance, which offers a complete range of solutions including services. Thales Alenia Space posted consolidated revenues of €2.23 billion in 2024 and has more than 8,100 employees in 7 countries with 15 sites in Europe. 

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: Australia

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Australia has implemented a coordinated, multi-tiered approach to managing extreme heat through federal and state-level initiatives.

    Australia has implemented a coordinated, multi-tiered approach to managing extreme heat through federal and state- level initiatives. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) launched the National Heatwave Warning Framework in November 2022, which issues heatwave warnings along with behavioural advice during periods of extreme heat. These warnings are disseminated nationwide through online portals, mobile apps, and media partnerships, supporting the management of critical services and infrastructure while providing targeted advice to vulnerable populations. State and territory government emergency services and health departments, in collaboration with federal health authorities, implement localized heat action plans tailored to regional needs, ensuring that responses to extreme heat are context- specific.

    The National Heatwave Warning Framework aligns with the Australian Warning System, providing a consistent three-level warning structure (Advice, Watch and Act, Emergency Warning) across Commonwealth, State, and Territory Governments. This system is designed to reduce the impact of heatwaves not only on health but also on critical infrastructure, ecosystems, and societal functions. The warnings allow for a wide range of preparatory actions as heatwaves intensify, escalating advice from vulnerable individuals to healthy people, and including guidance on protecting infrastructure.

    Each State and Territory has developed its own heat health plans to address heat risks through prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery strategies. Lead agencies vary by jurisdiction but typically include health departments, emergency services, and meteorological bodies. The decentralized approach ensures that State and Territory Governments can adapt their heat action plans to local conditions while benefiting from federal coordination.

    Cross-sectoral collaboration primarily involves the integration of public health, meteorological services, and emergency management. While public-private partnerships have not played a prominent role in Australia’s heat resilience efforts, there is ongoing exploration of partnerships to incorporate heat resilience into urban planning and infrastructure projects.

    Efforts are increasingly focused on integrating Indigenous knowledge into heat resilience strategies, recognizing that Western approaches may not be sufficient and that engagement with Indigenous ways of understanding and managing heat could offer valuable insights.

    Key achievements include the nationwide Multi Hazard Early Warning System (MHEWS), an informed heatwave warning system developed by BOM, which provides timely information to both the public and authorities, enabling prompt action.

    Localized heat action plans have been developed across States and Territories, allowing for tailored responses to regional climate conditions and population needs. These efforts have significantly strengthened Australia’s resilience to extreme heat and improved cross-sectoral public health response capabilities.

    Australia’s model of decentralized, State-led heat management supported by strong national coordination highlights the importance of localized adaptation strategies. While public- private partnerships were not prominently featured, Australia’s comprehensive warning system and cross-government collaboration provide a robust foundation for responding to extreme heat. This model offers valuable insights for countries with similar governance structures and emphasizes the need for integrating Indigenous knowledge, health, climate, and urban planning efforts to build long-term resilience.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: Argentina

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Argentina has adopted several governance structures to address the impacts of extreme heat, focusing on integrating efforts into broader climate adaptation and disaster management frameworks.

    The National Weather Service (SMN) first introduced an early warning system for extreme heat in Buenos Aires in 2009, which has now expanded to cover 71 meteorological stations for country-wide alerts issued year-round due to changing climate patterns. These alerts are disseminated through various channels, including email systems and media partnerships, ensuring broad coverage across regions.

    The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with SMN, leads public health campaigns and has developed a sentinel surveillance system to monitor heat-related morbidity, tracking the health impacts of extreme temperatures across provinces. Argentina also involves provincial and local governments in implementing heat action plans and managing hospital responses during heatwave alerts, with emergency services playing a critical role in the outreach and protection of vulnerable populations.

    Early warning systems are further integrated into workplace regulations, adapting work hours and hydration protocols during extreme heat events, particularly in sectors like construction and agriculture, where workers are at higher risk. While not formalized, coordination with the energy and agricultural sectors helps manage the impacts of blackouts and other heat-related disruptions.

    Public-private partnerships play an increasing role in Argentina’s heat resilience efforts, including collaborations with organizations like the Argentine Red Cross and professional medical associations to improve emergency care and healthcare system capacity.

    Partnerships are also emerging in urban planning and energy sectors, including projects to develop green spaces and cool roofs to mitigate the urban heat island effect in low-income areas, such as the Cool Roofs Initiative, which targets temperature reduction in disadvantaged neighbourhoods.

    An important actor in these efforts is the Centre for the Implementation of Public Policies for Equity and Growth (CIPPEC), an independent, non-partisan organization dedicated to policy innovation. Through its “Cities” Programme, CIPPEC conducted dialogues on urban heat resilience to support climate adaptation at the municipal level and was instrumental in presenting a forthcoming project with Wellcome Trust, which aims to enhance Argentina’s heat resilience framework through strengthened municipal engagement.

    Argentina’s key achievements include expanding the early warning system to cover the entire population, developing the sentinel surveillance project to improve data on heat-related health impacts, and leveraging international funding for research.

    Additionally, Argentina’s public-private partnerships have enhanced its ability to respond to heat risks, and collaborations with international organizations, such as the United Nations and the World Bank, continue to strengthen the country’s capacity to manage extreme heat effectively. Argentina has also begun discussions around integrating heat resilience measures into long-term urban development plans, aiming to create a sustainable framework for heat adaptation in the years to come.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: United Nations Senior Leaders united to advance DRR efforts and enhance coordinated support at the country and local levels

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    New York, 18 July 2025 – Thirty-six UN entities met in New York and online for the 10th meeting of the United Nations Senior Leadership Group on Disaster Risk Reduction for Resilience (UN SLG). The discussion, chaired by Mr. Kamal Kishore, UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction (SRSG), focused on concrete measures to further strengthen disaster risk reduction (DRR) and align coordinated UN support with country and local priorities. 

    Mr. Kishore opened the meeting by emphasizing the need to collectively translate commitments into tangible results at all levels. He urged UN SLG members to empower countries and communities to lead on DRR. 

    “Disaster risk reduction is an essential condition for making progress on Sustainable Development Goals, so it is not something which is optional”. (Kamal Kishore, SRSG) 

    Resident Coordinators brought perspectives from the field, reflecting on both achievements and challenges on advancing DRR through UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks. Mr. Dirk Wagener, Resident Coordinator for Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu highlighted key achievements in the Pacific region, including anticipatory financing, parametric climate insurance, early warning systems and community-driven resilience programs, while calling for expanded DRR financing, better data and technology systems, integrated cross-sector planning and stronger local leadership aligned with the priority actions identified in the Geneva Call for DRR.

    “The Pacific may be small in landmass, but it is vast in leadership, innovation and resilience. As a UN system, our role is to amplify that leadership, support integrated solutions grounded in traditional knowledge, gender responsiveness, inclusiveness and human rights”. (Dirk Wagener, RC for Pacific Multi-Country Office)

    Ms. Parvathy Ramaswami, Resident Coordinator for Tajikistan, outlined the success of the country’s Early Warnings for All initiative, aligned with its national DRR strategy, in strengthening response and reducing hazards impacts, emphasizing “the importance of government ownership, as well as the convening power of the UN Resident Coordinator System and the UN Country Team to deliver at multiple levels.” Both made suggestions to tackle challenges, including the need for behavioral change at the community level and addressing resource and institutional constraints. 

    “We have to address all of our activities in these multiple levels [national, sub-national and local] to really get the big impact and the change that we want”. (Parvathy Ramaswami, RC for Tajikistan) 

    Following reflections from UN agencies collectively reinforced the Resident Coordinators’ call for joint action to strengthen resilience beyond national levels, through innovative financing, inclusive community leadership, stronger data systems and cross-sector approaches that address the root causes of risk. 

    These priorities echo the 2024 Progress Report on the UN Plan of Action for Disaster Risk Reduction for Resilience, which was launched during the meeting together with its multimedia page showcasing good practices and impact stories. the 2024 progress report reflects achievements from early 40 UN entities, including on supporting the development and implementation of DRR strategies in 106 countries and risk-informing  all UN Cooperation Frameworks adopted in 2024. The report underscores the need for scaled-up DRR financing, embedding risk reduction across sectors, and strengthening inclusion and local-level implementation, including advancing the Sendai Gender Action Plan. 

    The UN SLG reaffirmed its role as a forum to align system-wide action and ensure mutual reinforcement in helping countries build resilience. The meeting’s outcomes will inform joint efforts to translate global commitments into country-level results and support communities most at risk.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: France

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    France has developed a comprehensive framework to manage extreme heat, significantly reducing heat-related mortality and improving public awareness.

    The approach includes national, regional, and local initiatives, guided by lessons learned from the 2003 heatwave, which prompted the creation of a robust governance structure to prepare for and respond to heat risks.

    The Ministry for Ecological Transition leads national climate change adaptation efforts, while the Ministry of Health oversees the inter-ministerial system for health management of heatwaves, active annually from June to September. Météo- France provides weather forecasts and early warnings, while Santé publique France manages health surveillance systems and public health campaigns to raise awareness of heat risks.

    Local governments, including departmental prefects and mayors, are responsible for implementing heat management plans, such as ORSEC (Organisation de la Réponse de Sécurité Civile), and communal safeguard plans. These local strategies include access to cooled public places, ensuring access to water, and maintaining registers of vulnerable individuals for targeted interventions.

    France’s heat response benefits from strong collaboration across sectors. Public-private partnerships with Electricité de France (EDF) ensure energy stability during heatwaves, while Veolia manages water resources. NGOs like the French Red Cross and Secours Populaire Français assist local governments by providing services to vulnerable populations. International partnerships with the World health Organization (WHO) and participation in European Union initiatives like Horizon 2020 also bolster France’s heat resilience efforts.

    France has achieved a significant reduction in heat-related mortality, with no extreme excess mortality observed during severe heatwaves since 2004. While these events have not matched the severity or duration of the 2003 heatwave, they have still impacted mortality and healthcare services. Public awareness campaigns have also been highly effective, with 75% of the population reporting they are well informed about heat risks. France has implemented innovative strategies, including the creation of cool islands in urban areas and localized heat action plans tailored to regional needs. Through ORSEC and communal safeguard plans, local governments have mobilized resources to protect vulnerable populations, ensuring effective heatwave response.

    France’s success in managing extreme heat, through national policy and localized action, demonstrates the importance of early warning systems, cross-sectoral collaboration, and strong governance.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: Egypt

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Egypt has implemented various governance structures to address the challenges posed by extreme heat, integrating these efforts into broader climate change adaptation and disaster risk management strategies.

    The National Climate Change Strategy and Egy pt Vision 2030 outline Egypt’s overall approach to enhancing resilience across sectors such as agriculture, health, and urban planning. The Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA) and the Ministry of Environment lead these efforts, collaborating with other relevant ministries and organizations.

    The National Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction (NCDRR) is expected to play an increasing role in disaster risk management, including extreme heat preparedness, though its involvement in this area is still developing. Local initiatives in cities like Cairo and Alexandria are focused on addressing the urban heat island effect through increased green spaces, improved urban planning, and public awareness campaigns. However, the scale and impact of these initiatives vary, and they may be more pilot projects than widespread programmes at this stage.

    Community-based adaptation programmes, supported by NGOs and international organizations, contribute to local resilience through awareness programmes and infrastructure improvements, including cooling centres, health services, and urban greening. However, these initiatives are often localized and vary in scope and effectiveness.

    Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are beginning to play a role in enhancing climate resilience, though their scale and impact are still evolving. For example, Cairo has explored smart city technologies to monitor heat, with potential partnerships involving companies like IBM and Vodafone Egypt. These efforts are in the early stages, and their impact is still being assessed.

    In Alexandria, there are ongoing discussions about potential collaborations between the Alexandria Health Directorate and private sector entities like Cleopatra Hospitals Group to improve heat-health preparedness, but these initiatives are not yet fully operational.

    Egypt also collaborates with international organizations like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Bank for technical assistance and funding. Ongoing research and data collection by Egyptian institutions, supported by international partners, aims to better understand and mitigate the impacts of extreme heat. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to build resilience against climate-related risks, including extreme heat

    MIL OSI United Nations News –