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  • MIL-OSI: Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel – 2025 half-year results press release

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Results for the period ended June 30, 20251 Press release
      Strasbourg, July 30, 2025

    First half of 2025:
    very strong business activity and solid results,
    penalized by the non-recurring income tax surcharge

    Results for the period ended June 30, 2025 06/30/2025 06/30/2024 Change
    Record net revenue €6.549bn €6.178bn         +6.0%        
    of which retail banking €4.427bn €4.159bn         +6.4%        
    of which insurance €822m €711m         +15.7%        
    of which specialized business lines 2 €1.532bn €1.491bn         +2.8%        
    General operating expenses reflecting investments -€3.405bn -€3.208bn         +6.1%        
    Stabilized cost of risk -€782m -€799m         -2.1%        
    Record income before tax €2.402bn €2.210bn         +8.7%        
    Net income down due to the corporate tax surcharge effect €1.638bn €1.714bn         -4.4%        
    of which income tax surcharge €192m N/A N/A
    RENEWED GROWTH IN FINANCING3: +1,8%
    Home loans Equipment loans Consumer credit
    €119.8bn €119.4bn €49.1bn
    A SOLID FINANCIAL STRUCTURE
    CET1 ratio4 Shareholders’ equity
    19.5% €46.7bn

    Press contacts:

    Aziz Ridouan – +33 (0)6 01 10 31 69 – aziz.ridouan@creditmutuel.fr

    Press relations – +33 (0)3 88 14 84 00 – com-alliancefederale@creditmutuel.fr

    Investor contact:

    Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel – bfcm-web@creditmutuel.fr

    1.1. Financial results

    (in € millions) 06/30/2025 06/30/2024 Change
    Net revenue 6,549 6,178 +6.0 %
    General operating expenses -3,405 -3,208 +6.1 %
    Gross operating income/(loss) 3,144 2,970 +5.9 %
    Cost of risk -782 -799 -2.1 %
    cost of proven risk -733 -782 -6.3 %
    cost of non-proven risk -49 -17 n.s
    Operating income 2,363 2,171 +8.8 %
    Net gains and losses on other assets and ECC (1) 39 39 +0.8 %
    Income before tax 2,402 2,210 +8.7 %
    Income tax -764 -496 +54.0 %
    Net income 1,638 1,714 -4.4 %
    Non-controlling interests 191 189 +1.0 %
    GROUP NET INCOME 1,447 1,524 -5.1 %

    (1)ECC = equity consolidated companies = share of net profit/(loss) of equity consolidated companies.

    Net revenue

    At June 30, 2025, the net revenue of Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel amounted to €6.5 billion, up +6.0% compared with the first half of 2024, driven by strong momentum in the banking and insurance networks.

    Revenues from retail banking were up by +6.4%, driven by the good performance of the banking networks (+6.7%) and consumer finance (including Cofidis Group +12.4%).

    The contribution of the insurance business to net revenue, at €822 million, was up +15.7%, with growth driven by all business lines (property & casualty insurance, life insurance).

    Asset management and private banking posted an overall increase in net revenue of +5.1%, with both activities making a positive contribution: asset management, +6.5% thanks to positive inflows and private banking, +3.9% thanks to good growth in commissions.

    Corporate banking posted a decline in net revenue of -3.7% compared with the first half of 2024, which was particularly favorable in terms of net interest margin.

    Net revenue from capital markets posted good growth of +11.0%, due in particular to the sharp increase in revenues from the commercial business line.

    Total income generated by the private equity business remained high at €211 million, albeit down slightly on the first half of 2024.

    General operating expenses and gross operating income

    General operating expenses increased by +6.1% to -€3,405 million in the first half of 2025.

    To keep pace with growth, employee benefits expenses (54% of general operating expenses) increased by +7.5%, while other operating expenses were kept under control at +4.6%.

    The scissors effect was slightly negative at 0.1 percentage point and the cost/income ratio remained low at 52.0%.

    Gross operating income rose by +5.9% to €3,144 million.

    Cost of risk and operating income

    In the first half of 2025, the cost of risk was -€782 million compared with -€799 million, a slight decrease of -2.1%.

    It breaks down into a -€733 million provision for the cost of proven risk (stage 3) and a -€49 million provision for the cost of non-proven risk (prudential provisioning) on performing loans (stages 1 and 2).

    The cost of proven risk was down by -6.3% at June 30, 2025. It was down in the banking networks, which represent 24% of the cost of proven risk (vs. 35% in June 2024). Consumer finance still accounts for a significant proportion of the cost of proven risk (71%). The specialized business lines (2% of the cost of proven risk) had a low level of cost of proven risk at -€17 million.

    In line with fiscal year 2024, the provisioning for future risks is recorded as a net expense in a context of uncertainty (particularly economic and related to international trade) in the short and medium term.

    Given the sustained level of business and operational efficiency, operating income rose by 8.8% year-on-year to €2,363 million.

    Other

    Net gains/(losses) on other assets and ECC amounted to €39 million.

    Income before tax

    Thanks to higher revenues and controlled risks, income before tax was up +8.7% year-on-year to €2,402 million.

    Net income

    Income tax (-€764 million in the first half of 2025 compared with -€496 million in the first half of 2024) is impacted by the exceptional contribution introduced by the French 2025 Finance Act on the profits of large companies generating profits in excess of €1 billion in France. Banque Fédérative, a subsidiary of Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale, remains a bank and an employer with strong roots in France. The group is therefore liable for €192 million in surcharge at June 30, 2025.

    Net income fell by -4.4% to €1,638 billion. Excluding the surcharge, it would be up by +6.8%.

    1.2. Financial structure

    Banque Fédérative de Crédit Mutuel’s shareholders’ equity totaled €46.7 billion at the end of June 2025 compared with €45.2 billion at the end of 2024.

    BFCM is a subsidiary of Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale. At end-June 2025, the latter’s estimated Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio was 19.5%2.

    The three rating agencies that issue ratings for Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale and the Crédit Mutuel group all recognize their financial stability and the validity of the business model:

      LT/ST Counterparty** Issuer/LT preferred senior debt Outlook ST preferred senior debt Stand-alone rating*** Date of last publication
    Standard & Poor’s (1) AA-/A-1+ A+ Stable A-1 a 11/07/2024
    Moody’s (2) Aa3/P-1 A1 Stable P-1 a3 12/19/2024
    Fitch Ratings * (3) AA- AA- Stable F1+ a+ 06/17/2025

    * The Issuer Default Rating is stable at A+.
    ** The counterparty ratings correspond to the following agency ratings: Resolution Counterparty Rating for Standard & Poor’s, Counterparty Risk Rating for Moody’s and Derivative Counterparty Rating for Fitch Ratings.
    *** The stand-alone rating is the Stand Alone Credit Profile (SACP) for Standard & Poor’s, the Adjusted Baseline Credit Assessment (Adj. BCA) for Moody’s and the Viability Rating for Fitch Ratings.
    (1) Standard & Poor’s: Crédit Mutuel group rating.
    (2) Moody’s: Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale/BFCM and CIC ratings.
    In terms of Moody’s ratings, certain group instruments were downgraded on December 17, 2024, namely: Counterparty Risk Rating (to Aa3), Counterparty Risk Assessment (to Aa3(cr)), junior deposits (to A1) and preferred senior debt (to A1).
    (3) Fitch Ratings: Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale rating (as the dominant entity of the Crédit Mutuel Group).

    Despite a start to 2025 still marked by action on France’s sovereign rating (outlook downgraded to “negative” on February 28, 2025 for S&P), these agencies confirmed, in 2024 (on November 7, 2024 for S&P and December 19, 2024 for Moody’s), in 2025 (on June 17, 2025 for Fitch Ratings) the external ratings and stable outlooks assigned to Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale and the Crédit Mutuel group. This reflects operating efficiency, recurring earnings based on a diversified business model and strong financial fundamentals.

    As a reminder, Moody’s downgraded France’s sovereign rating on December 14, 2024, with mechanical consequences for the highest-rated French banks (loss of support from the country rating that they had benefited from according to the agency’s methodology).

    The announcement of the acquisition of OLB (Oldenburgische Landesbank AG) on March 20, 2025, was welcomed by the three rating agencies. The completion of this acquisition is subject to approval by regulatory authorities, in particular the European Central Bank (ECB) and the European Commission. This transaction would further strengthen Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale’s diversification, with an impact on CET1 that would not alter the agencies’ assessment of the capital scores of Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale or the Crédit Mutuel group.

    1.3. Results by business line

    Retail banking

    Net revenue from retail banking increased by €6.4% to €4.4 billion. General operating expenses, at -€2.6 billion, grew at a slower pace than net revenue, i.e. 4.9%. The cost of risk rose to -€801 million, of which -€716 million for proven risk (decrease of -1.8%) and -€85 million for non-proven risk. Retail banking posted a slight increase in net income to €643 million.

    Insurance

    Net insurance income increased by +15.7%, driven by the increase in income from health, protection & creditor insurance and life insurance as well as by the increase in financial income (increase in dividends received from Desjardins Group, Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale’s long-standing partner in Canada).
    General operating expenses totaled -€92 million, corresponding solely to expenses not attributable to contracts.
    Net income was €495 million, up +0.5% compared with end-June 2024.

    Asset management and private banking

    Overall net revenue for both activities increased by +5.1% to €667 million. Private banking net revenue was up by 3.9% to €365 million; asset management net revenue increased by +6.5% (to €302 million) due to gains on commissions. General operating expenses rose by +9.0% to -€498 million, of which +8.2% for private banking and +9.9% for asset management.
    Net income was €129 million, up by 14.3% compared with the first half of 2024.

    Corporate banking

    Net revenue was down by -3.7% to €323 million at the end of June 2025, in a context of falling interest rates, despite higher commissions (+9.8%). The cost of risk (+€15 million compared with -€40 million at June 2024) was up, with a significant reversal effect on non-proven OEL provisions. Net income was stable at €158 million in the first half of 2025, versus €156 million in the first half of 2024.

    Capital markets

    The investment and commercial business lines continued to grow, with total net revenue up +11.0% to €331 million. General operating expenses increased by +5.5% to -€150 million. Net income increased by 3.1% to €124 million.

    Private equity

    In financial terms, €174 million was invested in the first half of 2025 in around 20 deals in France and abroad. The pace of disposals slowed compared with the exceptionally high level in 2024. Total income remained solid at €211 million in the first half of 2025, two-thirds of which was made up of capital gains generated by the portfolio, supplemented by recurring income.

    In the first half of 2025, the contribution to net income was €169 million, close to that of the first half of 2024

    1.4. Key figures

    Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel3

    (in € millions) 06/30/2025 12/31/2024
    Financial structure and business activity    
    Balance sheet total 732,747 734,840
    Shareholders’ equity (including net income for the period before dividend pay-outs) 46,698 45,203
    Customer loans 343,888 342,285
    Total savings 670,633 665,478
    – of which customer deposits 287,627 295,099
    – of which insurance savings 55,168 53,650
    – of which financial savings (under management and in custody) 327,838 316,730
         
      06/30/2025 12/31/2024
    Key figures    
    Number of branches 2 2
    Number of customers (in millions) 22.4 22.2
         
    Key ratios    
    Cost/income ratio (at 06/30/2025 vs 06/30/2024)         52.0%                 51.9%        
    Loan-to-deposit ratio         119.6%                 116.0%        
    Overall solvency ratio2 (estimated for 06/2025)         21.8%                 21.0%        
    CET1 ratio2 (estimated for 06/2025)         19.5%                 18.8%        
         

    1.5 Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel  financial statements

    Balance sheet (assets)

    (in € millions) 06/30/2025 12/31/2024
    Cash and central banks 75,012 86,190
    Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 41,077 39,653
    Hedging derivatives 1,588 1,701
    Financial assets at fair value through equity 46,814 44,421
    Securities at amortized cost 5,952 5,680
    Loans and receivables due from credit institutions and similar at amortized cost 61,836 61,897
    Loans and receivables due from customers at amortized cost 343,888 342,285
    Revaluation adjustment on rate-hedged books 284 209
    Financial investments of insurance activities 140,977 135,472
    Insurance contracts issued – Assets 8 10
    Reinsurance contracts held – Assets 247 284
    Current tax assets 780 1,002
    Deferred tax assets 858 1,005
    Accruals and miscellaneous assets 7,077 8,682
    Non-current assets held for sale 0 0
    Investments in equity consolidated companies 929 911
    Investment property 56 36
    Property, plant and equipment 2,556 2,606
    Intangible assets 494 483
    Goodwill 2,315 2,315
    TOTAL ASSETS 732,747 734,840

    Balance Sheet – Liabilities and shareholders’ equity

    (in € millions) 06/30/2025 12/31/2024
    Central banks 15 18
    Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss 26,847 26,643
    Hedging derivatives 2,660 3,261
    Debt securities at amortized cost 158,853 163,710
    Due to credit and similar institutions at amortized cost 50,404 46,031
    Due to customers at amortized cost 287,627 295,099
    Revaluation adjustment on rate-hedged books -16 -15
    Current tax liabilities 425 450
    Deferred tax liabilities 478 481
    Accruals and miscellaneous liabilities 12,010 12,671
    Debt related to non-current assets held for sale 0 0
    Insurance contracts issued – liabilities 129,868 125,195
    Provisions 3,285 2,913
    Subordinated debt at amortized cost 13,593 13,180
    Total shareholders’ equity 46,698 45,203
    Shareholders’ equity – Attributable to the group 41,997 40,737
    Capital and related reserves 6,568 6,568
    Consolidated reserves 33,822 30,959
    Gains and losses recognized directly in equity 161 195
    Profit (loss) for the period 1,447 3,015
    Shareholders’ equity – Non-controlling interests 4,701 4,466
    TOTAL LIABILITIES 732,747 734,840

    At December 31, 2024, CIC London reclassified £2,030 million (€2,448 million) from “Debt securities at amortized cost” to “Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss”.

    Income statement

    (in € millions) 06/30/2025 06/30/2024
    Interest and similar income 14,617 17,055
    Interest and similar expenses -11,235 -13,787
    Commissions (income) 2,389 2,332
    Commissions (expenses) -743 -698
    Net gains on financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss 839 497
    Net gains or losses on financial assets at fair value through shareholders’ equity 16 -13
    Net gains or losses resulting from derecognition of financial assets at amortized cost 2 0
    Income from insurance contracts issued 3,901 3,712
    Expenses related to insurance contracts issued -3,170 -3,085
    Income and expenses related to reinsurance contracts held -67 -51
    Financial income or financial expenses from insurance contracts issued -2,992 -3,073
    Financial income or expenses related to reinsurance contracts held 3 4
    Net income from financial investments related to insurance activities 3,115 3,189
    Income from other activities 659 371
    Expenses on other activities -784 -275
    Net revenue 6,549 6,178
    of which Net income from insurance activities 789 695
    General operating expenses -3,231 -3,041
    Movements in depreciation, amortization and provisions for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets -174 -166
    Gross operating income 3,144 2,970
    Cost of counterparty risk -782 -799
    Operating income 2,363 2,171
    Share of net income of equity consolidated companies 37 40
    Net gains and losses on other assets 0 -2
    Changes in the value of goodwill 1 0
    Income before tax 2,402 2,210
    Income taxes -764 -496
    Net income 1,638 1,714
    Net income – Non-controlling interests 191 189
    NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE GROUP 1,447 1,524

    At June 30, 2024, an expense of €244 million was reclassified from “Net gains on financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss” to “Interest and similar expenses”.

    1Unaudited financial statements – limited review currently being conducted by the statutory auditors. The Board of Directors met on July 30, 2025 to approve the financial statements. All financial communications are available at www.bfcm.creditmutuel.fr and are published by Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale in accordance with the provisions of Article L. 451-1-2 of the French Monetary and Financial Code and Articles 222-1 et seq. of the General Regulation of the French Financial Markets Authority (Autorité des marchés financiers – AMF).
    2 Specialized business lines include corporate banking, capital markets, private equity, asset management and private banking.
    3 Change in outstandings calculated over twelve months.
    4 Ratio estimated at June 30, 2025 for Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale, which includes BFCM in its scope of consolidation.

    2Ratio estimated at June 30, 2025 for Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale which includes BFCM in its scope of consolidation.

    3Consolidated results of Banque Fédérative du Crédit Mutuel and its main subsidiaries: CIC, ACM, BECM, TARGOBANK, Cofidis Group, IT, etc.

    2 Estimate as of June 30, 2025 for Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale, the integration of earnings into shareholders’ equity is subject to approval by the ECB.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Merkley Demand Public Release of Epstein Files

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) have launched an effort to direct the U.S. Department of Justice to publicly release all files related to the investigation of Jeffrey Epstein and his associates.

    Senators Luján and Merkley introduced the Epstein Files Transparency Act to ensure full transparency for the American people, accountability for those involved with Epstein, and justice for victims.  As story after story trickles out about the Trump administration’s handling of the Epstein Files, the Epstein Files Transparency Act is critical to restoring the public’s trust in government and includes strong protections to redact appropriate information to protect victims’ privacy and national security, while explicitly prohibiting redactions based on reputational harm or political sensitivity.

    “President Trump promised the American people transparency and accountability on Jeffrey Epstein and his horrible crimes. The Trump administration has failed to deliver on this promise and as a result has lost the trust of the American people. That’s why I’m partnering with Senator Merkley to launch this effort to provide the public with full transparency relating to the investigation of Jeffrey Epstein and his associates and help deliver justice for the victims,” said Senator Luján.

    “The rich and powerful cannot use their influence, money, and connections to cover up the abuse of our most vulnerable,” said Senator Merkley. “We have a government of ‘We the People,’ not ‘We the Powerful.’ To restore the public’s trust, the American people deserve the truth about Jeffrey Epstein and those connected to him.”

    Earlier this month, U.S. Representatives Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA) introduced a bipartisan resolution in the House calling for consideration of the Epstein Files Transparency Act.

    The legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), Mark Warner (D-VA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Coons (D-DE), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Michael Bennet (D-CO).

    Full text of the Epstein Files Transparency Act as introduced in the Senate can be found here. The Senators intend to force Senate consideration of the legislation as soon as possible.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Heinrich, Luján Call for Large-Scale Expansion of Humanitarian Aid in Gaza & Resumption of Diplomatic Efforts to Secure a Ceasefire & End the War

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined 42 Democratic senators in writing to the Trump Administration to express alarm about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and call for a large-scale expansion of humanitarian aid as well as the return of diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire agreement to end the war.

    “The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is unsustainable and worsens by the day. Hunger and malnutrition are widespread, and, alarmingly, deaths due to starvation, especially among children, are increasing. The ‘Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’ has failed to address the deepening humanitarian crisis and contributed to an unacceptable and mounting civilian death toll around the organization’s sites. To prevent the situation from getting even worse, we urge you to advocate for a large-scale expansion of humanitarian assistance,” the senators wrote to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff.

    In the letter, the senators underscore the remaining viable pathway that would end the war, bring home Israeli hostages, ensure Hamas can no longer pose a serious military threat to Israel, and achieve a diplomatic resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

    The senators also affirm their opposition to the permanent forced displacement of the Palestinian people, which would be contrary to international humanitarian law and a sustainable and lasting peace.

    “We ask that the Administration make this clear as it seeks an end to the war,” the senators continued. “We stand in strong support of diplomatic efforts to return all hostages, end the fighting in Gaza, and bring humanitarian relief for the safety and prosperity of the Israeli and the Palestinian people.”

    The letter is led by U.S. Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.). 

    Alongside Heinrich and Luján, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Lisa Blunt-Rochester (D-Del.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-Nev.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D, Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawai’i), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    The full text of the letter is hereand below:

    Dear Secretary Rubio and Special Envoy Witkoff:

    With recent efforts to secure a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas being unsuccessful, the situation in Gaza remains perilous. Efforts to secure an agreement are as critical and urgent as ever and we urge the resumption of good-faith talks as quickly as possible. While we appreciate that additional aid is beginning to enter Gaza, the humanitarian situation remains dire. Yet there still remains a viable pathway to end this war, bring home Israeli hostages, and achieve a diplomatic resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. 

    The Israeli hostages, held in Gaza by Hamas since their brutal attack on Israel on October 7th, have suffered far too long, as have their families. It is imperative that those still living be brought home as soon as possible, before more perish as the war drags on. And it is essential that the remains of those presumed killed – including Americans Omer Neutra and Itay Chen – be reunited with their loved ones. After many months of despair, it is long past time to bring all of the hostages home.

    The acute humanitarian crisis in Gaza is also unsustainable and worsens by the day. Hunger and malnutrition are widespread, and, alarmingly, deaths due to starvation, especially among children, are increasing.  The “Gaza Humanitarian Foundation” has failed to address the deepening humanitarian crisis and contributed to an unacceptable and mounting civilian death toll around the organization’s sites. To prevent the situation from getting even worse, we urge you to advocate for a large-scale expansion of humanitarian assistance and services throughout the Gaza Strip, including through the use of experienced multilateral bodies and NGOs that can get life-saving aid directly to those in need and prevent diversion.

    Beyond a negotiated ceasefire, a permanent end to this war will also require an end to Hamas rule in Gaza and ensuring that Hamas can no longer pose a serious military threat to Israel. We reaffirm our strong support for continued U.S.-led diplomacy with Israel, Palestinian leaders, and other partners in the Middle East in pursuit of the long-term goal of a negotiated two-state solution with Israelis and Palestinians living side by side in lasting peace, security, dignity, and mutual recognition.

    Finally, we write to underscore our strong opposition to the permanent forced displacement of the Palestinian people. This would be antithetical to international humanitarian law, to a sustainable end to this war that prioritizes the long-term safety and security of Israelis and Palestinians alike, to achieving a lasting peace in the Middle East, and expanding the Abraham Accords. We ask that the Administration make this clear as it seeks an end to the war.

    We stand in strong support of diplomatic efforts to return all hostages, end the fighting in Gaza, and bring humanitarian relief for the safety and prosperity of the Israeli and the Palestinian people.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman, Colleagues Host Members of British Parliament in Senate to Sharpen Collaboration

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    BAPG Chairman Boozman and Vice Chair Whitehouse lead discussions with visiting U.K. BAPG members.

    WASHINGTON––U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), Chair of the Senate Delegation to the British-American Parliamentary Group (BAPG), welcomed lawmakers from the United Kingdom to Capitol Hill for working sessions and events designed to offer a deeper understanding of the American political system at the federal level.

    During their visit, BAPG members consisting of senators and Members of Britain’s Parliament fostered dialogue on key policy priorities, such as security and defense across Europe and Asia, strengthening U.S. and U.K. relations, and topics including artificial intelligence, technology and international trade.

    “It is an honor and a privilege to continue the tradition of convening the British-American Parliamentary Group, especially back in the U.S. once again,” said Boozman. “I thoroughly enjoy our discussions and the opportunity to strengthen the special relationship and friendships our nations sustain to promote understanding, partnership, prosperity and diplomacy for generations to come.”

    Chairman Boozman and Vice Chair Whitehouse pose with visiting members of the British-American Parliamentary Group.

    Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) serves as Vice Chair of the Senate BAPG Delegation and joined Boozman in hosting the British lawmakers. Throughout the remainder of the conference, BAPG members met with several of Boozman’s Senate colleagues, executive branch leaders, businesses and think tanks.

    The BAPG Conference meeting location traditionally alternates between the U.S. and U.K. every two years. 

    For more photos from the conference, please click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On Senate Floor, Warren Warns Democrats About Dangers of Voting for Funding Bills While Republicans Use Tricks to Claw Back Bipartisan Funds, Trump Breaks Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    July 30, 2025

    “I’m asking my Republican colleagues to grow a spine and stand up for Americans instead of bowing down to their pretend-king. And I’m asking my Democratic colleagues to join me in using the power we have to fight back.”

    Video of Floor Speech

    Washington, D.C. — With the Senate set to vote on the first appropriations bill this week, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) took to the Senate floor in opposition, warning Democrats about the dangers of voting for Republicans’ funding bills while the Trump Administration illegally impounds funds, unilaterally cancels funding, and considers using tricks like pocket rescissions to sidestep Congress.

    “Why should Democrats come to the table in good faith and throw our support behind a quote-unquote bipartisan bill, only for Republicans to turn around after the deal is done and, somewhere down the line, delete any of the parts Trump doesn’t like?,” said Senator Warren. “That’s like Republicans saying: “Let’s cut a deal to sell you a car today,” and then a month from now, they come back and steal the wheels.”

    “Congress is a co-equal branch of government. We swore an oath to the Constitution, not to a king,” Senator Warren concluded. “I’m asking my Republican colleagues to grow a spine and stand up for Americans instead of bowing down to their pretend-king. And I’m asking my Democratic colleagues to join me in using the power we have to fight back.”

    Transcript: Floor Speech Opposing Reconciliation Funding Bills

    U.S. Senate Floor

    July 30, 2025

    As Prepared for Delivery

    Senator Elizabeth Warren: Mr./Madame President, I’ve come to the Senate floor today to discuss how our government is funded.

    The Constitution puts Congress in charge of setting up programs and funding them. There are some programs – for instance, Medicare and Social Security, that are funded at a certain level every year, unless Congress passes a law to change it. For everything else, Congress has to pass a new funding law every single year.

    The list is long:

    • medical research,
    • fighter planes,
    • weather satellites,
    • salaries for park rangers,
    • food inspection programs to make sure your chicken doesn’t make you sick.

    The money that we spend is detailed every year in a set of twelve bills that Congress votes on called “appropriations bills.”

    The Senate voted on the first one of those twelve bills last week – the one that deals with funding for veterans’ programs and military bases. I care deeply about improving the lives of our servicemembers and veterans. All three of my brothers are proud veterans, and they served their country with honor. I’m the ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee’s Personnel subcommittee.

    I voted no on that funding bill because even if this bill becomes law, I don’t believe Donald Trump has any intention of following that law. I’m not willing to be a helpmate on another one of Donald Trump’s scams.

    Why do I think Trump won’t follow the law? Consider his administration’s track record over the past six months on Congressional spending laws.

    First, Trump tried to freeze billions of dollars that American families and businesses count on — money that Congress set aside to support everything from food assistance programs to scientific research. Multiple federal judges blocked the illegal power grab, saying it blatantly violated the Constitution. Now, even Republicans are begging the administration to hand out the investments that Congress already passed and, by law, their communities were promised.

    Second, Republicans in Congress are bowing down to Donald Trump and ratifying some of his worst efforts. They are using an obscure piece of federal law to zero out federal funding after it was approved by both Republicans and Democrats in Congress. This process is called a “rescission,” and it only requires 50 Republican votes to do Donald Trump’s bidding.

    And if that wasn’t bad enough, Trump is already plotting to use a shady loophole to defund even more programs — demanding cuts so late in the year that Congress doesn’t have enough time to do anything about it. The Director of Donald Trump’s Office of Budget and Management, Russ Vought, has already said that loophole is quote-unquote “on the table.”

    Let’s be clear about what’s happening here. Step One: Congress negotiates a compromise that both Republicans and Democrats support and it’s signed into law. Step Two: Trump tells Republicans what parts of that deal he wants to cancel. Step Three: Republicans in the Senate bend the knee and follow Trump’s orders to cancel the money. But wait there’s more — apparently, Step Four is Republicans turn around and, with a straight face, ask Democrats to negotiate more deals for next year’s funding, starting the whole rinse-and-repeat process again, beginning with the bill to fund veterans services.

    Are you kidding me? Do we really look that gullible?

    Why should Democrats come to the table in good faith and throw our support behind a quote-unquote bipartisan bill, only for Republicans to turn around after the deal is done and, somewhere down the line, delete any of the parts Trump doesn’t like? That’s like Republicans saying: “Let’s cut a deal to sell you a car today,” and then a month from now, they come back and steal the wheels.

    Of course, Trump may not ask his Republican buddies to rescind spending. Maybe instead on his own he’ll just illegally refuse to spend it, the way he’s done with $425 billion already this year.

    Our founders didn’t give the President the power to decide spending. A king can decide anything he wants, but not a president. Donald Trump wants to be able to wake up and decide to cancel funding for public education, transportation projects, medical research, food inspectors, anything, just because Donald Trump feels like it — and he wants the Republicans in Congress to roll over and let it happen. No checks and balances. Just Trump playing king and ending programs that would help Americans.

    Trump is getting a lot of help from his team. Russ Vought, the head of OMB, has said that the problem in Congress is too much bipartisanship. Too much. In other words, the Trump administration is saying loud and clear that Donald Trump can make all the decisions. They don’t need — or want — Democrats.

    At the very same time, the Republicans need Democratic votes for these funding bills because the Senate rules currently require 60 votes for them to pass and there are only 53 Republicans in the Senate. If Democrats don’t provide votes, the Republicans want to blame us for shutting down the government when this year’s funding runs out at the end of September.

    On the other hand, if Senate Republicans want Democratic votes for these funding bills, they should ask us what it will take to win our support. Not just what programs we want to fund or at what levels, when those promises aren’t worth the paper they’re printed on. No, Democrats should tell Republicans that if they want our votes, they will have to guarantee that any deal we strike actually means something.

    I get it: Democrats and Republicans have different priorities. Here in the Senate, Republicans have voted to end health care for 17 million Americans and drive up health insurance costs for millions more. Republicans have voted to give billionaires huge tax cuts. Democrats are willing to make a deal, but our deal is about bringing down costs for families, including the cost of health care, groceries, and housing. If Republicans want to make a deal, let’s make a deal — but only if the Republicans include an agreement that they won’t take it back a few weeks later.

    Congress is a co-equal branch of government. We swore an oath to the Constitution, not to a king. I’m asking my Republican colleagues to grow a spine and stand up for Americans instead of bowing down to their pretend-king. And I’m asking my Democratic colleagues to join me in using the power we have to fight back.

    Mr. President, I yield the floor.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Markey, Merkley, Whitehouse Press Top Trump Officials on Rising Electricity Prices for Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    July 30, 2025

    Consumers face higher electricity prices than when Biden left office, despite Trump campaign promise to cut energy and electricity prices in half 

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), joined by Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), pressed Trump administration officials on rising electricity prices for Americans. Despite Donald Trump’s campaign promise to “cut the price of energy and electricity in half,” consumers are facing higher electricity prices than when President Biden left office.

    “The Administration must reverse its path of increased energy prices and instead work to cut energy costs for American families,” wrote the lawmakers.

    The lawmakers wrote to Energy Secretary Chris Wright, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, United States Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer, and Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., pressing for answers as to why President Trump has failed to lower energy prices and what the administration’s plan is to bring down those costs.

    “We write to you – a broad swath of the cabinet – because the increase in energy costs is driven by a broad swath of policies across the Trump Administration,” wrote the lawmakers.

    According to the most recent data from the Consumer Price Index, under the Trump administration, electricity prices are up nearly 5 percent from the start of the year and up by almost a full percentage point in June 2025. Prices are expected to climb even further, with the average electric bill in the U.S. during this year’s air conditioning season projected to hit record highs.

    “At the same time, the Trump Administration is cutting programs that help families afford higher electricity costs and lower their energy usage, all while utility CEOs receive massive payouts,” wrote the lawmakers. “A combination of the Administration’s regulatory decisions, the impacts of tariffs, and the Administration’s reversal of key energy investments is driving up energy bills for Americans around the country.”

    The lawmakers cited key examples of Trump administration actions which have exacerbated the energy cost crisis, including:

    • The President’s “Big Beautiful Bill” makes cuts to existing clean energy and manufacturing tax credits that will lead to the estimated loss of 1.6 million jobs and elimination of $980 billion in GDP growth. The final law will result in an estimated $280 increase in average American household energy costs per year over the next decade.
    • President Trump’s efforts to sell more gas overseas risk creating a domestic price surge due to draining domestic supplies.
    • The Trump Administration is forcing states to keep defunct, unwanted, and unneeded coal plants open in several states, foisting tens of millions of dollars of new maintenance and retention costs onto consumers in 15 states.
    • President Trump’s chaotic and poorly planned tariffs policy is increasing costs for building materials for transmission lines and electrical equipment, and “virtually every other segment of the supply chain,” imposing additional costs on consumers.
    • The Administration has proposed entirely eliminating funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) after firing the entirety of the program’s staff, which provides $4 billion in assistance to approximately 6 million low-income families who rely on this funding to pay their utility bills.
    • The Energy Department is in the process of rolling back energy efficiency and water conservation standards, which save households close to $600 annually on water and gas bills.

    The lawmakers pressed for answers to better understand how the Administration plans to lower prices for consumers by August 11, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mullin to Host Next Telephone Town Hall on Thursday 7/31

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator MarkWayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma)

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) will host his next live telephone town hall event tomorrow, Thursday, July 31st at 5pm CT. During the call, Mullin will provide a quick legislative update, including highlights from the recent passage of President Trump’s ‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill’ before taking live questions from constituents.

    “Our telephone town halls are a great way for thousands of Oklahomans across the state to receive convenient updates and speak directly with me about the issues that matter most to them,” said Senator Mullin. “I’m excited to discuss what we’ve achieved in the first 7 months of President Trump’s term, including historic tax cuts, permanent border security, lower energy costs, and greater support for our defense community. Though we’ve already delivered major wins for Oklahoma, it’s vital that our state continue to have a voice as we advance legislative priorities for the second Trump administration. I look forward to hearing from those who join our important conversation.”

    Details for participating in the call are below:

    Date: Thursday, July 31st, 2025

    Time: 5:00pm CT

    Dial In: (855) 614-0277

    Note: Due to the anticipated size of this event, all participating Oklahomans are encouraged to dial into the telephone town hall at least 5-10 minutes early to get connected. The telephone town hall will also stream LIVE and be available for playback on Senator Mullin’s Facebook page. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Hailing Progress to Transform Food Systems, Deputy Secretary-General Urges Stronger Collaboration to End Global Hunger, at UN Summit+4 Stocktake’s Closing Plenary

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Following are UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, at the closing plenary of the Second United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake (UNFSS+4), in Addis Ababa today:

    Let me begin by extending my appreciation to the Government of Ethiopia for its warm hospitality, and to the Italian Government as well, for their support as Co-Hosts of this Second United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake.

    Over the last three days, we have engaged and heard from over 3,000 of you — leaders from Ethiopia and Italy, Kenya, Somalia, Comoros, Liberia, Nigeria, Uganda, Cuba; the ministers from a wide range of sectors; National Convenors and other government representatives; youth, Indigenous Peoples, food producers, business, civil society, development partners; our Rome-based agencies; and the UN system.  I am particularly grateful to the resident coordinators that joined us here in Addis and will now go back to work with renewed impetus to make food systems transformation a reality.

    The energy and vitality of this movement continues to inspire.  This gathering has reminded us of the value of coming together as a global community to benefit from the perspectives and experiences of others and to shape new, bold action for the future.

    At the UN Food Systems Summit (UNFSS) in 2021, in the midst of a global pandemic, we embarked on a journey to grow and catalyse energy behind an emerging movement for the transformation of our food systems to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  Too often food systems are seen as part of our challenges, when they can be one of the greatest solutions to deliver for people, planet, peace and prosperity.

    Two years ago, still grappling with the socioeconomic impacts of the pandemic, facing planetary crises and the effects of new conflicts, the Call to Action from the First Stocktake of the UN Food Systems Summit (UNFSS+2) in Rome appealed for inclusivity to strengthen our efforts to drive more targeted investment and mutual accountability.

    Since then, Governments have continued to shift how they govern and shape policy for food systems.  A total of 130 countries have articulated integrated, multisectoral National Pathways for Food Systems Transformation and here again; I want to acknowledge the incredible contribution of Sir David Nabarro.

    In 168 countries, nationally determined contributions are now reflecting the critical role of food and agriculture in reducing greenhouse gas emissions as we seek to adapt and transform.

    More than 170 countries are implementing school meal programmes that support child nutrition, often connecting with local producers and contributing to regenerative production practices.  At the subnational level, many cities are leading the way in reducing food waste and strengthening local supply chains.

    I am proud of what we have achieved.  We have heard powerful stories of progress and rising ambition since 2021 from a diverse ecosystem of partners, who are reforming policies, championing local innovation and digitalization, mobilizing investments and partnerships and empowering women and youth.

    And when it comes to our young people, there is increased understanding that ensuring youth-inclusive and youth-led food systems transformation is important both for enhancing youth welfare and building sustainable and resilient food systems.

    The food systems movement has taken root in global and regional agreements — from the Twenty-Eighth Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) Declaration to initiatives emerging from the Group of Seven (G7) and Group of Twenty (G20) to regional agreements, such as the Kampala Declaration earlier this year.

    These are powerful commitments to transform food systems for people and the planet that you have helped inspire.  Thanks to your collective work and efforts we are better equipped to meet our ambition.

    You are strengthening coalitions and launching new initiatives to help drive our work, including:

    • The Food Systems Accelerator, launched by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), GAIN and the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub, will support countries to turn strategies into financed, scalable change.
    • Through greater uptake of the Financial Flows to Food Systems framework, co-developed by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the World Bank, we can help Governments design more effective, tailored financing strategies.
    • Business engagement — co-led by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), UN Global Compact and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development — broke new ground.  These efforts culminated in a Business Compendium of 15 investment-ready models, showing how business is shifting from commitment to implementation.
    • As a result of the investment pitch for Cameroon, the Global Flagship Initiative for Food Security has announced their intent to partner with the Joint SDG Fund to significantly scale up existing programmes.  The launch for this large-scale commitment will take place in New York this September 2025.
    • The Convergence Initiative helps drive integration of food systems transformation and climate action for accelerated sustainable development and represents a useful resource for countries to navigate competing policy choices with partners.
    • Investments in critical sectors, including those under the Mattei Plan for Africa, are mobilizing public-private partnerships and catalysing private sector investment.
    • The UNFSS+4 Youth Declaration, crafted by more than 3,000 youth from all over the world, called for inclusive, participatory decision-making in food systems, climate justice and intergenerational collaboration.
    • The UNFSS Coalitions of Action demonstrated that they are dynamic vehicles for food systems transformation, mobilizing diverse stakeholders across sectors and scales to deliver impact aligned with national priorities.

    With just five years until 2030, it is encouraging to see that the world remains committed to the realization of the 2030 Agenda.

    As we conclude this Stocktake, we must acknowledge that we met in the face of challenges that test our moral values and threaten the future sustainability of our planet, underscoring the urgency of our work together.

    The release of the 2025 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World Report last night confirmed:  hunger and malnutrition persist.  Climate shocks, conflict, debt and inequality are widening the cracks in our systems.

    It is estimated that between 638 and 720 million people — a bit less than 1 in 10 people in the world — faced hunger in 2024. 2.6 billion people are still unable to afford a healthy diet.  Only about one third of children aged 6 to 23 months and two thirds of women aged 15 to 49 years achieved minimum dietary diversity globally.

    People’s access to food in conflict zones is highly constrained and — in some instances — attempts to access humanitarian relief has led to injury and death.  Whole communities experience man-made food insecurity and malnutrition, with extreme long-term consequences for their children.

    Farmers everywhere are facing unprecedented adverse climate impacts, threatening livelihoods and food security.  Developing economies are still coping with impacts of inflation, severe fiscal constraints, debt challenges and the high cost of capital.  Looking ahead, 512 million people are still projected to be facing hunger in 2030, of whom nearly 60 per cent will be in Africa.

    As we consider the pathway to 2030, peace and respect for human rights must anchor our ambition.  Every person in our world — rich or poor, young or old — has the right to food that is accessible, affordable, safe and nutritious. Present and future generations are depending on our choices.  Only through inclusive dialogue and genuine partnerships can countries and communities ensure faster and more effective progress.

    As we leave this Stocktake and take what we achieved here in Addis back home and to other milestones, clear points of emphasis have been identified:

    First, we must act urgently to summon the funding, innovations and global solidarity to build the food-secure and climate-resilient future that every person, everywhere, needs and deserves.  The dramatic reduction in life-saving humanitarian funding to respond to these needs must be immediately reversed and safe access to life-saving humanitarian support granted.

    Second, is to deepen the implementation of National Pathways for Food Systems Transformation.  The effective and meaningful participation of all relevant stakeholders is a priority, with particular attention to involving family farmers, front-line food workers, women, youth, Indigenous Peoples and local communities.

    Third, we must unlock finance and investment.  That means mobilizing domestic resources and investments at scale for all dimensions of food systems transformation.  It also means scaling up finance and investment by multilateral development banks, international financial institutions, and public development banks behind country priorities.

    And we have work to do to scale up private sector investment in agriculture and food systems.  This should include the small and medium-sized enterprises that serve as a backbone of our food systems interfacing with millions of food producers and consumers.

    Fourth, we must continue the drive for an integrated approach.  We need to simultaneously pursue policy measures that focus on equity and resilience through linking environmental, economic and social dimensions of food systems.  Policies should be rooted in local culture, communities and traditional knowledge to help guide approaches that can accelerate transformation and enhance self-reliance.

    Fifth, we must continue to leverage science, technology and knowledge.  Science and innovation are prerequisites for food systems transformation and can support alignment of health, agriculture, climate, biodiversity and economic objectives and policies.  Strong science-policy-society interfaces are essential and must appreciate traditional knowledge.

    New technologies, such as artificial intelligence, are changing our economies and our societies.  The road ahead demands we leverage the appropriate and responsible use of technology to ensure prosperity for all in a healthy and liveable planet.  The digital public infrastructure needs more investment to ensure the connectivity of our rural communities.

    And, finally, we must connect with our future.  I agree with our young people — they are not merely future beneficiaries of food systems change, they are active co-leaders in transformation.  Policies should enhance opportunities for young people to create, innovate and thrive.

    On the road to 2030, there will be important milestones that the outcomes of UNFSS+4 will inform and in which this movement will engage.  These include the World Social Summit, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP30, UN Convention on Biological Diversity COP17 and the 2027 SDG Summit.

    UNFSS+4 has reinforced the value of a dedicated space to foster collaboration, deepen systems approaches and encourage the emergence of food systems whose purposes are at the heart of the 2030 Agenda.

    The UN Food Systems Coordination Hub will continue to advance progress at country level, through our resident coordinators and country teams, accompanying National Convenors and collaborating with other partners.  Our movement has shown what is possible when we work together in deliberate ways across sectors, stakeholders and countries with a shared purpose.

    I call on Governments and people everywhere to build on what has been accomplished and continue to work together for peace and to realize the vision of the 2030 Agenda.  Let’s continue to lead the way — together.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: High Noon Announces Recall of its Vodka Seltzer Beach Pack (12 Pack) Due to Inclusion of CELSIUS® ASTRO VIBE ™ Energy Drink Cans that were Inadvertently Filled with Vodka Seltzer

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    July 29, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    July 30, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & Beverages
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Cans contain alcohol

    Company Name:
    High Noon
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    High Noon, Celsius

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Energy Drink

    Company Announcement
    MODESTO, CA, July 29, 2025 – High Noon is recalling two production lots of High Noon Beach Variety packs (12-pack/12 fluid ounce cans). Some of these packs contain cans that are filled with High Noon vodka seltzer alcohol and are mislabeled as CELSIUS® ASTRO VIBE™ Energy Drink, Sparkling Blue Razz Edition with a silver top. Consumption of the liquid in these cans will result in unintentional alcohol ingestion.
    No illnesses or adverse events have been reported for this recall to date.
    Product Details: This labeling error is confined to the two lots listed below:

    Product Description 

    Retail UPC 

    Lot Codes 

    Product Images

    High Noon BeachVariety Packs 

    High Noon UPC:085000040065

    L CCC 17JL25 14:00 toL CCC 17JL25 23:59 L CCC 18JL25 00:00 toL CCC 18JL25 03:00  Lot Codes are on theexterior of the 12-pack.See below:

    See Image Below

    CELSIUS ASTROVIBE Energy Drink, Sparkling Blue Razz Edition 

    CELSIUS UPC8 89392 00134 1

    L CCB02JL25 2:55 to L CCB02JL25 3:11 The lot codes arelasered on thebottom of the can.

    See Image Below

    This recall is exclusively for the affected High Noon Beach Variety 12-packs with the lot codes listed above, which were shipped to distributors in FL, MI, NY, OH, OK, SC, VA & WI. Distributors shipped product to retailers in FL, NY, OH, SC, VA & WI. Product was shipped between July 21, 2025 – July 23, 2025.
    Even if not purchased in a High Noon Beach Variety pack, consumers should be advised to ensure their CELSIUS ASTRO VIBE Energy Drink, Sparkling Blue Razz Edition does not contain the lot codes (L CCB 02JL25 2:55 to L CCB 02JL25 3:11), prior to consuming.
    Consumers are advised to dispose of the CELSIUS ASTRO VIBE Energy Drink, Sparkling Blue Razz Edition cans with the impacted lot codes (L CCB 02JL25 2:55 to L CCB 02JL25 3:11) and not consume the liquid. High Noon Beach Variety packs with different lot codes than above are not affected by this recall and are safe to consume.
    The recall was initiated after High Noon discovered that a shared packaging supplier mistakenly shipped empty CELSIUS cans to High Noon.
    As a reminder, consumers are advised to dispose of the CELSIUS ASTRO VIBE Energy Drink, Sparkling Blue Razz Edition silver lid cans with the impacted lot codes (L CCB 02JL25 2:55 to L CCB 02JL25 3:11) and not consume the liquid.
    Consumers who have purchased the identified High Noon Beach Variety 12-packs or mislabeled CELSIUS ASTRO VIBE Energy Drink, Sparkling Blue Razz Edition (with lot codes: L CCB 02JL25 2:55 to L CCB 02JL25 3:11), should contact High Noon Consumer Relations at consumerrelations@highnoonvodka.com to get more information on next steps, including refunds.
    This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau.

    Company Contact Information

    Product Photos

    Content current as of:
    07/30/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: White House, Tech Leaders Commit to Create Patient-Centric Healthcare Ecosystem

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services

    Leading Healthcare, Tech Companies Pledge to Work on Interoperability & User-Friendly Apps

    Today, the Trump Administration announced progress toward building a smarter, more secure, and more personalized healthcare experience in partnership with innovative private sector companies. During a White House “Make Health Tech Great Again” event hosted with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Administration secured commitments from major healthcare and information technology firms – including Amazon, Anthropic, Apple, Google, and OpenAI – to begin laying the foundation for a next-generation digital health ecosystem that will improve patient outcomes, reduce provider burden, and drive value.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Releases Guidance for Recipients of Federal Funding Regarding Unlawful Discrimination

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Justice Department Releases Guidance for Recipients of Federal Funding Regarding Unlawful Discrimination

    WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Justice released Guidance to ensure that recipients of federal funding do not engage in unlawful discrimination.  In particular, it clarifies that federal antidiscrimination laws apply to programs or initiatives that involve discriminatory practices, including those labeled as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (“DEI”) programs.  Entities that receive federal funds, like all other entities subject to federal antidiscrimination laws, must ensure that their programs and activities comply with federal law and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, or other protected characteristics—no matter the program’s labels, objectives, or intentions.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Sunday, Senator Pennycuick to Host Law Enforcement Roundtable for Berks, Montgomery Counties

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    July 31, 2025 – Douglassville, PA

    ADVISORY – Attorney General Sunday, Senator Pennycuick to Host Law Enforcement Roundtable for Berks, Montgomery Counties

    WHAT:
    Attorney General Dave Sunday and Pa. Senator Tracy Pennycuick will host law enforcement and community leaders from Berks and Montgomery counties to discuss current public safety issues and trends, and ways to collaborate to achieve common goals.

    Attorney General Sunday and Senator Pennycuick will be available for media interviews prior to the roundtable event, which is closed to the public/media. Media attendees will be invited to take video/photographs of the group assembling for opening remarks, and will then be asked to depart so the group can have open discussion about sensitive matters.

    WHO:
    Dave Sunday, Attorney General of Pennsylvania
    Pa. Senator Tracy Pennycuick
    Berks County, Montgomery County law enforcement leaders

    WHEN & WHERE:
    9:45 A.M., Thursday, July 31, 2025

    Monarch Fire Company
    50 Pennsylvania Avenue
    Douglassville, Pa. 19518

    MEDIA RSVP:
    Credentialed media must RSVP to press@attorneygeneral.gov.

    Media may arrive beginning at 9:45 A.M.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Appropriators Advance Bill with Alaska Priorities for Transportation, Infrastructure, and Housing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski

    07.30.25

    Washington, DC – Last week, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, voted to advance the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development bill for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) that contains significant Alaska priorities. The bill was approved in committee and will now advance to the Senate floor for consideration.

    “This funding meets some of Alaska’s most critical needs, ranging from affordable housing to infrastructure improvements,” said Senator Murkowski. “I look forward to continuing to advocate for these wide-ranging investments that will benefit all Americans and provide stability for those who need some help getting back on their feet.”

    Highlights from the Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) Bill

    Investments in Aviation Safety

    Air travel is a way of life in Alaska, and oftentimes pilots are flying without guidance or accurate weather assessments. In recognition of these life-threatening conditions, Senator Murkowski is focused on bolstering aviation safety in Alaska and around the country. To that end, the THUD appropriations bill invests $20 million for the Don Young Alaska Aviation Safety Initiative (DYAASI), and $687.5 million for Essential Air Service.

    Bolstering Infrastructure

    Senator Murkowski understands the diverse infrastructure needs in Alaska and around the country. Ensuring America’s roads, railroads, and maritime transport routes remain safe and efficient is essential. This bill provides for $63 billion for the Federal Highway Administration, $2.9 billion for the Federal Railroad Administration, and $874 million for the Maritime Administration, including $30 million for Assistance to Small Shipyards Grants and $75 million for the Port Infrastructure Development Program.

    Supporting Community Development Initiatives

    Senator Murkowski recognizes the importance of having a safe place to call home for people of all ages, and how difficult it is to secure it. She advocated for significant funding for initiatives that aim to make housing more accessible in communities around the country.

    Senator Murkowski ensured a continued investment of $107 million in funding for the Youth Homeless Demonstration Program, which takes a comprehensive, community-based approach to reduce the number of young people experiencing homelessness. She also secured $1.25 billion for the HOME Investment Partnership Program, which provides the Department of Housing and Urban Development funding for grants used by states, local governments, and nonprofits to buy, build, and/or rehabilitate affordable housing options for low-income Americans. She also successfully fought for $52 million to rehouse survivors of domestic violence. Additionally, Senator Murkowski advocated for significant investments in Tribal Housing programs, $1.11 billion for Indian Housing Block Grants, and $10 million for Tribal Housing and Urban Development-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Vouchers.

    In addition to programmatic funding to help Alaskans, Senator Murkowski was able to secure investments specific to 27 Alaska communities, projects that have been requested and prioritized by local governments and organizations in this bill:

    • Anchorage: $1,600,000 for Covenant House Alaska to purchase the Dena’ina House.
    • Anchorage: $287,000 for NeighborWorks Alaska to replace their fire alarm system.
    • Anchorage: $750,000 for Anchorage Community Land Trust for building repairs.
    • Anchorage: $320,000 for Catholic Social Services to improve accessibility and egress at shelter.
    • Buckland, Noatak, Kivalina: $330,000 for Northwest Arctic Borough School District to construct and renovate teacher housing.
    • Central Council of the Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of AK: $2,500,000 to provide housing for first responders in Angoon, Hydaburg, Kake, Thorne Bay, and Pelican.
    • City of Angoon: $2,000,000 to design and construct access to boat launch facility.
    • Cordova: $750,000 for Cordova Family Resource Center to purchase and renovate a building.
    • Craig: $900,000 for Helping Ourselves Prevent Emergencies (HOPE) to purchase a building for a domestic violence shelter.
    • Emmonak: $4,000,000 through the Denali Commission to construct a domestic violence shelter.
    • Fairbanks: $5,000,000 for the Alaska Department of Transportation (AKDOT) for road reconstruction.
    • Fairbanks: $2,000,000 for North Star Council on Aging to rehabilitate senior housing.
    • Fairbanks: $1,000,000 for Fairbanks Neighborhood Housing Services Inc to construct affordable housing.
    • Fairbanks: $700,000 for Fairbanks Youth Advocates to build transitional housing for youth at risk of homelessness.
    • Haines: $1,000,000 for Borough of Haines to construct an early childhood education building.
    • Kake: $2,000,000 for Kake Tribal Corporation to replace a dock.
    • Ketchikan: $1,575,000 for Inter-Island Ferry Authority for marine vessel upgrades.
    • Ketchikan: $1,000,000 for Southeast Alaska Independent Living, Inc. to purchase and renovate a building to support people with disabilities.
    • Ketchikan: $2,000,000 for Ketchikan Indian Community to construct a navigation center.
    • Minto: $608,000 for Yukon Koyukuk School District to renovate teacher housing.
    • Naknek: $2,000,000 for South Naknek Village Council to construct affordable housing.
    • Native Village of Diomede: $1,500,000 to renovate teacher housing.
    • Native Village of Unalakleet: $255,000 to construct housing for victims of violent crimes.
    • Nome: $4,000,000 for City of Nome to construct housing for teachers and public safety officers.
    • Nulato Village: $4,000,000 for Nulato Village for port infrastructure improvements.
    • Petersburg: $2,000,000 for Petersburg Borough to replace a float and breakwater at Banana Point.
    • Saint Paul Island: $1,000,000 for City of Saint Paul for fire station construction and renovation.
    • Seldovia: $482,000 for City of Seldovia to replace the Jakolof Bay Dock.
    • Sitka: $1,000,000 for Sitkans Against Family Violence to construct and renovate a domestic violence shelter.
    • Soldotna: $2,387,000 for AKDOT to reconstruct a portion of Marydale Avenue.
    • Talkeetna: $4,500,000 for Sunshine Station Child Care Center to design and construct a new childcare center.
    • Thorne Bay: $1,574,000 for City of Thorne Bay to construct a new Fire and EMS building.
    • Wasilla: $3,000,000 for Wasilla Airport (IYS) to design and extend runway.
    • Yakutat: $2,000,000 for City & Borough of Yakutat to build housing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Investor Alert: IPO Capital And SM Trading Centre Are Not Registered

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 30, 2025

    The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority of Saskatchewan (FCAA) warns investors of the online entities known as IPO Capital and SM Trading Centre.

    “The FCAA urges Saskatchewan residents to always check an entity’s registration status at aretheyregistered.ca before making an investment,” FCAA Securities Division Executive Director Dean Murrison said. “Registration status indicates if a business is legitimate. Only dealing with registered entities is an easy way to protect yourself and keep your investments safe.”

    IPO Capital and SM Trading Centre claim to offer Saskatchewan residents trading opportunities, including stocks, cryptocurrencies, forex, indices and commodities. Additionally, IPO Capital claims to offer Contracts for Difference (CFDs) commodities. 

    This alert applies to the online entities using the websites “https://ipo capital” and “smtradingcentre com” (these URLs have been manually altered so as not to be interactive).

    IPO Capital and SM Trading Centre are not registered with the FCAA to trade or sell securities or derivatives in Saskatchewan. The FCAA cautions investors and consumers not to send money to companies that are not registered in Saskatchewan, as they may not be legitimate businesses.

    If you have invested with IPO Capital or SM Trading Centre or anyone claiming to be acting on their behalf, contact the FCAA’s Securities Division at 306-787-5936.

    In Saskatchewan, individuals or companies need to be registered with the FCAA to trade or sell securities or derivatives. The registration provisions of The Securities Act, 1988, and accompanying regulations are intended to ensure that only honest and knowledgeable people are registered to sell securities and derivatives and that their businesses are financially stable.

    Tips to protect yourself:

    • Always verify that the person or company is registered in Saskatchewan to sell or advise about securities or derivatives. To check registration, visit The Canadian Securities Administrators’ National Registration Search at aretheyregistered.ca.
    • Know exactly what you are investing in. Make sure you understand how the investment, product, or service works.
    • Get a second opinion and seek professional advice about the investment.
    • Do not allow unknown or unverified individuals to remotely access your computer.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Estes, Delbene, Bennet, Blackburn Introduce Legislation to Support Ambulances in Rural America

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

    U.S. Representatives Ron Estes (R-Kansas), Suzan Delbene (D-Wash.), along with Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colorado) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), reintroduced the Protecting Air Ambulance Services for Americans Act. This critical legislation will update Medicare reimbursement rates for emergency air services by using data collected under the No Surprises Act, which was passed in 2020.

    “Air ambulances provide lifesaving services, especially for the many Kansans living in rural parts of our state,” said Rep. Estes. “The bipartisan bill I’m reintroducing with Rep. DelBene, along with my colleagues Senators Bennet and Blackburn, is a common sense way to ensure all Americans have emergency access to hospitals and specialized providers regardless of their location. When seconds matter, air ambulances have proven to be the best way to care for patients in need, and under this legislation, the work of the pilots and medical professionals on board will continue to save lives.”

    “Coloradans should be able to trust that if they are sick or injured, they can get the medical attention they need, no matter where they live,” said Sen. Bennet. “As air ambulance bases across rural America have been forced to close, people in rural communities have lost access to lifesaving care. This bipartisan bill builds on our efforts to bring transparency to our health care system and improves access to lifesaving care for all Americans.”
     
    “During a medical emergency, Tennesseans living in rural communities shouldn’t have to worry about access to emergency medical transportation, including air ambulance,” said Sen. Blackburn. “Our bipartisan Protecting Air Ambulance Services for Americans Act would preserve critical access to life-saving air ambulance services for Tennesseans and all Americans, no matter where they live.”

    “Every second counts during a medical emergency, and for many in Washington, especially in rural and underserved areas, air ambulance services are a lifeline,” said Rep. DelBene. “Medicare’s outdated reimbursement rates no longer reflect the true cost of providing this critical care, putting access at risk. This legislation will ensure that reimbursement is based on current data, so patients can continue to count on timely, lifesaving emergency transport when it matters most.”

    The legislation has received outside support:

    “We applaud the introduction of the Protecting Air Ambulance Services for Americans Act,” said Jana Williams, President & CEO of the Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS). “This bipartisan, bicameral legislation reflects a growing recognition that air medical providers are not just responders—they are lifelines, especially in rural and underserved communities. Air medical programs are increasingly essential mobile extensions of our national emergency care infrastructure. This bill takes a pragmatic step forward to ensure these high-acuity services remain available when and where they’re needed most. We look forward to working with Congress and other stakeholders to advance this critical legislation and protect access to life-saving care across the country.”

    “Being part of the emergency medical system gives me an up-close look at the challenges facing rural Americans when it comes to accessing critical trauma care,” said Brittany Cox, Area Manager of the LifeSave Air Transport Program. “The introduction of this legislation is an important step to ensure that all Kansans have access to emergency air medical transport, no matter where they live. For people in rural parts of our state, timely access to emergency care can mean the difference between life and death. We’re grateful to Representatives Estes and DelBene for their leadership and commitment to addressing this critical need.”

    Background:

    June 2023: Reps. Estes, DelBene, Sens. Bennet, Blackburn Introduce Bill to Support Lifesaving Emergency Services for Americans in Rural Communities

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: LYNO Debuts Presale Offering for AI-Powered Arbitrage Token

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands, July 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The team behind $LYNO has officially launched the first phase of its presale for a decentralized, AI-powered cross-chain arbitrage protocol designed to operate across more than 15 EVM-compatible blockchains. The presale is structured into seven stages and aims to provide early participants with tiered pricing and bonus opportunities.

    7-Stage LYNO Presale Begins—Early Access Tokens Available at Discounted Rate

    The presale of LYNO has already begun, and it is well-organized with a 7-phase launch plan that will reward early participants. The Early Bird phase is the first Community Round, where 16 million tokens or 3.20 percent of the total 140 million supply will be offered at a highly discounted price of 0.05 dollars per token, in order to encourage early participation. This round aims at raising 800,000. After this level, the price of the token shoots to 0.055 – the next level immediately adding value to the early investors who get the tokens at the lowest rates.

    The Community Round is now underway, offering 16 million tokens—or 3.20% of the total 140 million supply—at a discounted price of $0.05 per token. This phase targets a raise of $800,000 before the token price increases to $0.055 in the next stage. Participants can use ETH or USDT on the Ethereum network and must connect via Web3-compatible wallets such as MetaMask or Trust Wallet.

    Smart contracts associated with the presale have been audited by Cyberscope , providing an added layer of transparency and security. Purchased tokens will be claimable via the official LYNO dashboard upon the conclusion of the presale.

    Introducing the LYNO Protocol

    The $LYNO protocol is an AI-powered, decentralized arbitrage system that autonomously identifies and executes cross-chain trading opportunities. By leveraging real-time market data and machine learning algorithms, it seeks to detect price inefficiencies and execute arbitrage with minimal latency.

    The protocol consists of four core modules:

    1. Data Aggregation
    2. AI-Based Decision Making
    3. Autonomous Execution
    4. Settlement and Reporting

    It is built to interact seamlessly with popular chains including Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Arbitrum, and Optimism. Interoperability is enabled through bridges such as LayerZero, Axelar, and Wormhole.

    The $LYNO token will serve multiple functions within the ecosystem, including:

    • Governance voting
    • Profit-sharing via staking
    • Protocol upgrades and community initiatives

    Next Steps

    The team encourages interested participants to review the project documentation and join the community channels for regular updates.

    For more information:

    Contact:

    LYNO AI
    Email: contact@lyno.ai

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by LYNO AI. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ddc05c6a-661b-4f0a-8d44-d8c207fa0e5e

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6e21c7b3-e34c-4d1b-9e86-9db02e733906

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BSNFinance Expands Global Operations, Marking 10+ Years of Consistent Growth

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, July 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a significant milestone for the company, BSNFinance has announced the expansion of its global operations, underscoring more than a decade of sustained performance in the rapidly evolving digital asset landscape. This latest development reinforces the platform’s longstanding commitment to innovation, market stability, and delivering value to a growing base of international investors.

    With over 10 years in operation, BSNFinance has established itself as a trusted name in the world of cryptocurrency trading, offering a comprehensive suite of tools designed to meet the demands of both institutional and retail clients. The platform’s ability to adapt to market changes while maintaining consistent growth has positioned it as a leader among multi-asset trading solutions.

    Throughout its history, BSNFinance has focused on delivering high-performance technology and reliable execution, attributes that have earned it a strong reputation within the industry. Its expansion into new global markets reflects a strategic plan to leverage this experience, ensuring clients benefit from advanced infrastructure and seamless access to a diverse range of crypto assets.

    One of the key elements that has fueled this growth is the platform’s emphasis on continuous technological development. Over the past decade, BSNFinance has invested heavily in infrastructure that enables faster trade execution, enhanced risk management tools, and advanced analytical features for traders seeking precision in volatile markets. These efforts have contributed to the company’s reputation as a forward-thinking trading platform that consistently delivers measurable value.

    As the digital asset market becomes increasingly competitive, trust and credibility play a crucial role in client acquisition and retention. Independent analyses and numerous BSNFinance reviews highlight the platform’s ability to combine stability with innovation, making it a preferred choice for traders navigating diverse market conditions. The expansion of operations is expected to strengthen these capabilities further, enabling the company to deliver its proven solutions on a larger scale.

    Another significant factor behind BSNFinance’s success is its commitment to client-centric development. The platform has spent over a decade refining user experience, ensuring that both new and seasoned traders have access to intuitive interfaces and reliable market data. This approach has been consistently reflected in BSNFinance reviews, which emphasize the company’s focus on user satisfaction and long-term relationship building.

    The expansion plan includes the integration of advanced liquidity networks, allowing BSNFinance to offer enhanced market depth and competitive pricing. These improvements are designed to support traders across a wide range of strategies, from day trading to long-term portfolio management. Such strategic developments underscore the platform’s ability to evolve in response to changing market demands while preserving the consistency that has defined its operations for over a decade.

    Industry observers note that BSNFinance reviews frequently highlight the company’s ability to maintain high performance across different market cycles. This consistency is a direct result of its comprehensive approach to risk management and technology integration, both of which are at the core of the platform’s expansion initiatives. By scaling its operations globally, BSNFinance aims to ensure that its clients continue to benefit from the same stability and reliability, regardless of market volatility.

    The company’s decade-long presence in the crypto trading space has also allowed it to develop strong partnerships and networks within the financial ecosystem. These connections play a crucial role in supporting the platform’s expansion strategy, ensuring seamless access to liquidity and market insights. Many BSNFinance reviews emphasize this depth of market integration as one of the defining features that separate the platform from newer entrants in the industry.

    With more than 10 years of operational excellence, BSNFinance is uniquely positioned to navigate the complexities of today’s digital asset landscape. Its latest global expansion is not just a reflection of past success but also a signal of its continued commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions to traders worldwide. This strategic move ensures that the platform remains a key player in the crypto trading sector, balancing innovation with the proven stability that clients have come to expect.

    As the company enters this next phase of growth, BSNFinance reviews are expected to continue reinforcing its reputation as a trusted and established leader in the market. The combination of technological advancement, client-focused development, and over a decade of experience provides a strong foundation for sustained success in an increasingly competitive environment.

    Australia – Sydney
    “BSNFinance has been my go-to trading platform for years. The stability and accuracy of their tools are unmatched, especially during volatile market swings.”

    Australia – Melbourne
    “After using several platforms, BSNFinance stands out for its consistency and execution speed. A decade of experience really shows in the way they operate.”

    Canada – Toronto
    “I’ve seen steady growth in my portfolio thanks to BSNFinance. The platform combines advanced technology with a user-friendly interface that makes trading efficient.”

    Canada – Vancouver
    “Reliable, professional, and innovative. BSNFinance has maintained a high standard for over a decade, and it continues to deliver excellent results.”

    About BSNFinance

    BSNFinance is a global cryptocurrency trading platform with over 10 years of operational excellence in the digital asset market. The company provides a comprehensive suite of trading solutions, advanced analytics, and robust infrastructure designed to serve both institutional and retail traders worldwide. Known for its consistent performance and client-focused innovation, BSNFinance continues to deliver trusted solutions that adapt to evolving market dynamics.

    Disclaimer: trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment or legal advice.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New police unit bolsters B.C.’s response to human trafficking

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province is strengthening its efforts to combat human trafficking with the creation of a new, co-ordinated provincial response team.

    The counter human trafficking unit (CHTU) will enhance the detection, investigation and prosecution of human trafficking crimes, while expanding support for victims and targeting organized crime networks operating in British Columbia.

    “Human trafficking occurs in all areas of our province, and we all have a role to play in helping to prevent these horrific crimes,” said Nina Krieger, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “The creation of this new unit marks a significant step forward in our government’s efforts to assist police in identifying and supporting victims of human trafficking, while also strengthening evidence-gathering to ensure those responsible for these crimes are held accountable.”

    The CHTU is a 12-member team that will lead the provincial response to the issue of human trafficking through intelligence, education and investigation. The unit will work with police departments and other agencies to provide increased training to officers and additional capacity in investigations and intelligence-gathering on cases throughout the province. They will also help strengthen the response to these crimes by promoting experts in the field of human trafficking to support criminal prosecutions. 

    “Human trafficking is a complex and often hidden crime that requires specialized skills and resources from police,” said Chief Supt. Elija Rain, officer in charge of the B.C. RCMP major crime section. “From education to detection, investigation, prosecution and working closely with policing and community partners, the creation of this dedicated team strengthens our overall response to human trafficking in every corner of B.C.”

    The funding for the CHTU is made available from the Province’s $230-million investment into the Provincial Police Service to enable the B.C. RCMP to hire officers in specialized units, such as the major crime section, the internet child exploitation unit and the BC Highway Patrol.

    The Province’s broader response to human trafficking includes a focus on enhancing community-led supports for survivors, increasing community capacity to respond to human trafficking and enforcement efforts through police departments. More than $60 million is provided annually to support more than 475 front-line victim-service and violence against women programs in the province that offer emotional support, information, referrals and practical assistance to victims of violence, including victims of human trafficking. This includes funding for 70 new sexual-assault services and five sexual-assault centres to support victims of sexual violence in the province.

    Human trafficking is a serious violation of human rights involving the exploitation of vulnerable individuals for profit. Due to their often hidden and complex nature, many human trafficking offences go undetected or unreported. In 2023, 43 incidents were reported to police in B.C., though the actual number may be higher as experts note human trafficking is significantly under-reported.

    Quotes:

    Jennifer Blatherwick, parliamentary secretary for gender equity –

    “We know that human trafficking and gender-based violence are closely connected. Over 90% of police-reported human trafficking victims are women and girls, and one-third of them are trafficked by an intimate partner. Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQIA+ people are at a higher risk, as are survivors of gender-based violence, which is why this new unit will support the important work underway as part of B.C.’s gender-based violence action plan.”

    Amna Shah, MLA for Surrey City Centre –  

    “One incident of human trafficking is too many. This new 12-member unit will help our Province proactively respond to the issue of human trafficking in B.C. and ensure victims have the support they need. The B.C. RCMP is working hard to address these crimes and keep our communities safe.”

    Jenea Gomez, director, Illuminate Anti-Human Trafficking Programs –

    “It is an honour to work alongside the Province of British Columbia and this newly formed response team to ensure that legal and social mechanisms support our common goal of seeing survivors live free from exploitation. Illuminate has worked closely with the RCMP Counter-Exploitation Unit for many years, and we will continue to bring our expertise to the Counter Human Trafficking Unit for the support of survivors seeking safety and justice.”

    Quick Facts:

    • The Province provided $230 million to support the RCMP Provincial Police Service to hire 256 members over three years.
    • Two hundred and twenty-five positions have been staffed and actions for the remaining 31 positions are expected to be completed by spring 2026.
    • The United Nations has designated July 30 as World Day Against Trafficking in Persons to raise awareness of the situation of victims of human trafficking and for the promotion and protection of their rights.

    Two backgrounders follow.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Maxwell Frost Blasts Florida Attorney General’s Threats to Remove Orange County Government Officials Over Immigration Enforcement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)

    July 30, 2025

    ORLANDO, FL — Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) issued a statement slamming Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, for threatening to remove Orange County Commissioners and Mayor Jerry Demings, after Orange County leaders rejected a proposal that would force county corrections staff to transport federal immigrant detainees to federal detention facilities. Uthmeier’s threat comes as Florida’s newly appointed CFO has announced the State is auditing the county’s spending.

    In a statement, Rep. Frost says:

    “In a desperate attempt to score points with the Trump Administration, Florida’s unelected Attorney General is threatening to remove elected Orange County officials for doing what they were elected to do — to stand up for the residents of Orange County and exercise their sovereignty and duties given to them by the people.

    “This the same governor who used to claim that the federal government was an ‘out-of-touch bureaucracy that does not act on behalf of us, but instead looms over us and imposes its will upon us.’ And now after squandering $450 million of state taxpayer dollars to build an internment camp in the middle of the Everglades, they want to force Orange County to foot the bill for their cruel immigration agenda and use its resources to transport detainees nearly 250 miles away.

    “The Governor’s office has a long track record of overstepping and playing these twisted political games to silence the opposition. Threats to remove local leaders who were elected to represent our community while at the same time auditing the county’s spending are nothing short of baseless, direct attacks on one of the only Democratic strongholds left in Florida. This is a political shakedown. 

    “I stand by Orange County and its leaders against these attacks. This assault on our local democracy will not stand.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Fix Regulations Hurting U.S. Taxpayers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40) and Eugene Vindman (VA-07) introduced the bipartisan Cutting Paperwork for Taxpayers Act (H.R.4826) to close a loophole in the tax code that penalizes Americans waiting on tax refunds from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). 

    Under current law, when the IRS is delayed more than 45 days in issuing a tax refund, interest begins to accrue on the refund. If this interest exceeds $10, taxpayers must report it as income by filing a separate 1099-INT form, creating an unnecessary administrative and financial burden on taxpayers for delays outside of their control.  

    The Cutting Paperwork for Taxpayers Act would correct this flaw in the tax code and designate IRS-paid interest on late refunds as non-taxable, sparing individual filers and small businesses from having to report this interest as additional income. 

    “Taxpayers shouldn’t have to foot the bill for inefficiency at the IRS,” said Rep. Young Kim. “I’m proud to help lead this bipartisan bill to cut red tape at the IRS and save working Americans time and money. I will always fight to ensure our federal government works for taxpayers, not against them.” 

    “The cost of living is too damn high, and I’m working hard to change that. This common-sense, bipartisan bill would put money back in your pocket. Families who file their taxes on time and are owed a refund should get their money hassle free,” said Rep. Vindman. “I’m proud to team up with Congresswoman Kim on this effort to make life easier.”

    Read more about the bill HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Aftermath of Tsunami Alert, Cantwell Thanks First Responders & NOAA: “Those Warnings Were Made Possible Because Of The Incredible Work of NOAA Employees”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    07.30.25

    In Aftermath of Tsunami Alert, Cantwell Thanks First Responders & NOAA: “Those Warnings Were Made Possible Because Of The Incredible Work of NOAA Employees”

    Tsunami warning comes on the heels of Cantwell’s letter to Trump calling for more NOAA investments in ocean data collection, emergency alert systems

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell thanked first responders and employees of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for tracking the risk of a tsunami following an 8.8 magnitude earthquake near Russia and immediately mobilizing alert systems to ensure people on the West Coast, in Hawaii, and in Alaska had the up-to-date information needed to stay safe.

    “Those warnings were made possible because of the incredible work of NOAA employees [and] emergency responders. And to make sure that our coastal communities like the State of Washington, Hawaii, Alaska, California, and Oregon, and other impacted areas, were given warning safely in advance,” Sen. Cantwell said during a meeting of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, on which she serves as ranking member.

    “We have this capability because of investments we’ve made in infrastructure. This includes the DART program — the NOAA buoys positioned in the ocean to monitor for tsunamis in real time — and the work of NOAA’s Center for Tsunami Research in Seattle working to improve the models to provide faster, more accurate weather warnings and information.”

    Video of her remarks in the committee meeting is HERE; a transcript is HERE.

    Last night’s tsunami warning came on the heels of a letter Sen. Cantwell sent to President Donald Trump last week outlining her five-point plan to bolster the United States’ weather readiness.

    READ MORE:

    The Seattle Times: EDITORIAL — Cantwell’s bipartisan weather plan shows the leadership America needs

    CNN: Key senator makes bipartisan plea to Trump to invest in weather and early warning networks

    CBS: Sen. Maria Cantwell urges Trump to invest in modernized weather forecast system: “The money will save you money”

    Sen. Cantwell’s five recommendations for President Trump are:

    1. Modernize Weather Data Collection: The United States needs to collect and compile more data by land, air, space, and sea by modernizing our weather data infrastructure and other tools, including better radars, hurricane hunters, weather satellites, and ocean buoys.
    2. World Leading Analytics: We need to catch up with and surpass European weather forecasting capabilities, which will require more supercomputing and improvements in data analytics including assimilation.
    3. Cutting Edge Research: As our communities experience more frequent and extreme weather, now is the time to invest in additional cutting-edge basic and applied research.
    4. Modernizing Alert Systems: We must strengthen and expand weather emergency communication channels to keep the public informed and help first responders prepare and react to natural disasters.
    5. Advance Bipartisan Legislation: The bipartisan Weather Act Reauthorization Act of 2024 would strengthen weather research and forecasting and expand commercial data partnerships.

    More details about each of Sen. Cantwell’s recommendations can be found HERE.

    NOAA provides critical services to the nation including weather forecasts, extreme storm tracking and monitoring, tools to enable communities to adapt to sea level rise and climate change, supporting fisheries management, and conserving marine mammals and other protected species.

    Last month, Sen. Cantwell joined renowned meteorologists from across the country for a virtual presser to sound the alarm on cuts at NOAA’s National Weather Service, and called on the Trump Administration to restore the agency to full capacity. In February, Sen. Cantwell voted against confirming Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, citing – among other issues – his “tepid support” for NOAA. She then sent a letter to Lutnick directly following his confirmation calling on him to exempt the NWS from the federal hiring freeze, and protect all NOAA workers from firings “that would jeopardize the safety of the American public.”

    Sen. Cantwell is a champion of NOAA and helped secure $3.3 billion in NOAA investments in the Inflation Reduction Act to help communities prepare for and adapt to climate change, boost science needed to understand changing weather and climate patterns, and invest in advanced computer technologies that are critical for extreme weather prediction and emergency response. Her Fire Ready Nation Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen NOAA’s ability to help forecast, prevent, and fight wildfires, passed the Commerce committee unanimously earlier this year and now heads to the full Senate for consideration. In 2011, she secured Washington state’s first coastal Doppler radar in Grays Harbor County, enabling forecasters to better determine wind speed and rainfall of incoming storms.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: Senate Approves Sam Brown as Under Secretary of Memorial Affairs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    07.29.25

    USMA Brown to be Important Partner in Advancing FNC Veterans Memorial Center

    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven issued the following statement after voting to confirm Sam Brown as Under Secretary of Memorial Affairs (USMA) at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). In this new role, Hoeven will work with USMA Brown to help ensure veterans receive the recognition they have earned, including by advancing a Veterans Memorial Center at the Fargo National Cemetery (FNC).

    “Sam Brown is clearly the right choice for this important position at the VA. From his own service in the Army to the work he has done on behalf of veterans since, I am confident that he will work hard to ensure all of our veterans are laid to rest with the honor they have earned. I look forward to working with him to accomplish just that, including by advancing a Veterans Memorial Center at the Fargo National Cemetery, which will help make it an incredible cemetery worthy of our veterans and their families,” said Hoeven.

    Last month, Hoeven announced he had secured an agreement in principle from the VA for building the FNC Veterans Memorial Center. This followed Hoeven’s efforts with VA Secretary Doug Collins and VA staff to secure approval for the conceptual design advanced by the Fargo Memorial Honor Guard (FMHG) and the community working group. Hoeven established the working group to ensure the FNC has the facilities required to adequately address the needs of veterans, their families and volunteers, while providing a first-rate federal veterans cemetery that is on par with the outstanding state veterans cemetery in Mandan.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Demands Action and Accountability for Mass Starvation in Gaza: “It’s a war crime to starve a population to get what you want from your enemy.” 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) last night spoke on the Senate floor about the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, and the need for the United States to take immediate action. He condemned Hamas, pushed for a ceasefire, and demanded the release of the remaining hostages. Senator Welch also rejected the Netanyahu government’s illegal use of starvation as a weapon of war. 
    “We all condemn Hamas. We all want the release of the remaining hostages. But we have to ask ourselves the question: is it at all justifiable that there is a policy that has to be recognized that starvation is being used as a tool of warfare? I reject the legitimacy of that act. It’s a war crime, Mr. President. It’s a war crime to starve a population to get what you want from your enemy, as righteous as your defense against an enemy may be. It’s illegal to starve children to obtain the battlefield advantage. But the Netanyahu government has actually said it’s doing that. My view, Mr. President is that it’s long, long past the time to say enough. Enough. No.
The United States will not stand by as hunger is used as a weapon. We don’t do that,” said Senator Welch.   
    Watch Senator Welch’s floor remarks here: 

    Read Senator Welch’s remarks as delivered here. 
    Senator Welch has been a leading voice in calling for an indefinite ceasefire in Gaza to stop the bombing, prevent further loss of civilian life, extend access to humanitarian relief to those who had been displaced, and continue negotiations to secure hostages.  Earlier this week, Senator Welch joined Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) in leading 19 of their Senate colleagues in pressing the Trump Administration for answers on the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). In their letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the Senators called on the Administration to immediately cease funding for GHF and restore support for existing United Nations aid distribution mechanisms. 
    In May, Senator Welch led 46 colleagues on a resolution calling on the Trump Administration to use all diplomatic tools at its disposal to bring an end to the blockade of food and lifesaving humanitarian aid to address the needs of civilians in Gaza. Senate Republicans blocked Senator Welch’s request for unanimous consent to pass his resolution. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Pacific General Leads Investment in NAYA

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pacific General, a New York based investment firm specializing in consumer and industrials private equity investments, announced today that it has invested in Naya Group LLC (“NAYA” or the “Company”), a rapidly growing Middle Eastern fast-casual restaurant brand with 35 units across six states.

    The investment is part of a single-asset continuation vehicle transaction of TriSpan (USA), LLC (“TriSpan”), a transatlantic private equity firm with offices in New York and London. The transaction was led by Pacific General, with Kline Hill Partners LP (“Kline Hill”) serving as co-lead. Pacific General’s investment offered liquidity to TriSpan’s investors while also providing growth equity capital to support NAYA’s expansion into a national brand.

    Hady Kfoury, founder and CEO of NAYA, commented, “We are pleased to welcome Pacific General as our investor alongside our longstanding partner TriSpan. We look forward to leveraging Pacific General’s strategic support and industry insights to help accelerate our growth.”

    “We are excited about our partnership with NAYA and TriSpan and also teaming up with Kline Hill to contribute to laying the cornerstone for the Company’s next phase of growth,” said Matthew Yoon, Managing Partner of Pacific General. “TriSpan and the management of NAYA have built the Company as a standout brand in the Mediterranean / Middle Eastern fast casual dining space, and we are thrilled to be joining the journey.”

    “NAYA aligns with our investment strategy of supporting highly scalable, authentic restaurant brands with strong unit economics and significant whitespace for growth. The investment underscores our team’s ability to identify, source, and execute high-quality investment opportunities in the restaurant space,” said Dajeong Lee, Partner of Pacific General.

    Proskauer Rose LLP acted as legal counsel to Pacific General. Goodwin Procter LLP and Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC served as legal counsel and financial advisor, respectively, to TriSpan. Golenbock LLP acted as legal counsel to NAYA.

    About NAYA

    NAYA is a high-growth, fast-casual restaurant brand reimagining Middle Eastern / Mediterranean cuisine for the modern consumer. Blending bold flavors with fresh, high-quality ingredients, NAYA offers a customizable menu of craveable, wholesome dishes served in a sleek, contemporary setting. With generous portions, an efficient counter-service model, and broad demographic appeal, NAYA’s value proposition has resonated strongly with U.S. consumers, making it a go-to destination for flavorful, satisfying meals at an accessible price point. For more on NAYA, visit www.eatnaya.com.

    About Pacific General

    Pacific General is an investment firm focusing on private equity and alternative investments. The firm specializes in originating, structuring, and investing in businesses with growth potential in the consumer, industrials and business services sectors, and leverages its cross-border expertise and global network to create value. The firm operates through offices in New York and Seoul, South Korea and with a presence in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. For more information, please visit www.pacificgeneral.com.

    About TriSpan

    Founded in 2015, TriSpan, LLP is a private equity firm with offices in New York and London that invests in lower middle market companies in North America, Europe, and the United Kingdom. TriSpan, LLP is committed to creating value by leveraging a combination of deep operational and financial resources to accelerate growth and drive improved performance. Since inception, the firm has completed 24 platform investments, alongside nearly 100 bolt-on acquisitions across its portfolio. TriSpan’s Rising Stars strategy focuses on control-oriented growth investments in differentiated, high-growth restaurant concepts. For more information, please visit www.trispanllp.com.

    About Kline Hill Partners

    Founded in 2015, Kline Hill Partners is an investment firm focused on the private equity secondary market, with industry-leading capabilities in the small-deal space. With over $5.4 billion in assets under management, Kline Hill’s funds are backed by a blue-chip investor base that includes endowments, foundations, family offices, and other institutional investors. Together, Kline Hill’s secondary strategies make up a platform designed to serve the entirety of the small-deal secondary market, with capabilities spanning LP fund transfers, GP-led transactions, and secondary direct transactions. For more information, please visit www.klinehill.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Israel’s attack on Syria: Protecting the Druze minority or a regional power play?

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Spyros A. Sofos, Assistant Professor in Global Humanities, Simon Fraser University

    A new round of violence recently erupted in southern Syria, where clashes between local Druze militias and Sunni fighters have left hundreds dead.

    In response, Israel launched airstrikes in and around the province of Sweida on July 15, saying it was acting to protect the Druze minority and to deter attacks by Syrian government forces.

    The strikes mark Israel’s most serious escalation in Syria since December 2024, and they underline a growing trend in its foreign policy: the use of minority protection as a tool of regional influence and power projection.

    The Druze minority

    The Druze, a small but strategically significant ethno-religious group, have historically occupied a precarious position in the politics of Syria, Israel and Lebanon.

    With an estimated million members across the Levant — a sub-region of west Asia that forms the core of the Middle East — the Druze have often tried to preserve their autonomy amid broader sectarian and political upheavals. In Syria, they make up about three per cent of the population, concentrated largely in the southern province of Sweida.

    Following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria in late 2024 and the rise of a new Islamist-led government under Ahmed al-Sharaa, the Druze in southern Syria have resisted central authority.

    Though not united in their stance, many Druze militias have rejected integration into the new Syrian army, preferring to rely on local defence networks. The latest wave of violence, sparked by the abduction of a Druze merchant, has been met with both brutality from pro-government forces and military retaliation by Israel.

    Truly protecting Syrian minorities?

    Israeli officials says they intervened to protect the Druze, which is not unprecedented. Over the past year, Israel has increasingly portrayed itself as a defender of threatened minorities in Syria — rhetoric that echoes past efforts to align with non-Arab or marginalized groups, such as the Kurds and certain Christian communities.

    This strategy may be less about humanitarian goals and, in fact, much more deeply political.

    By positioning itself as a regional protector of minorities, Israel could be seeking to craft a narrative of moral authority, particularly as it faces growing international outrage over its policies in the West Bank and Gaza. This is an example of what scholars refer to as strategic or nation branding by states to cultivate legitimacy and influence through selective interventions and symbolic gestures.

    But Israel’s actions may not just concern image. They could also be part of a broader geopolitical strategy of containment and fragmentation.

    The new authorities in Syria are seen as a significant threat, particularly because of the presence of Islamist factions operating near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. By creating what is in effect a buffer zone in southern Syria, Israel’s goal may be to prevent the entrenchment of hostile entities along its northern border while also capitalizing on Syria’s internal fragilities.

    Strategic risks

    With sectarian tensions resurfacing in Syria, the Israeli government probably sees an opportunity to build informal alliances with disaffected groups like the Druze, who may be skeptical of the new Syrian government. This reflects a shift in Israel’s foreign policy from reactive deterrence to proactive strategic disruption.

    This approach is not without risks. While some Druze leaders have welcomed Israeli support, others — particularly in Syria and Lebanon — have accused Israel of stoking sectarian tensions to justify military intervention and advance territorial or security aims.

    Such accusations echo longstanding criticisms that Israel’s involvement in regional conflicts is often guided less by humanitarian concern and more by cold strategic calculation.

    This new phase in Israeli foreign policy also fits into a broader pattern I’ve previously written about — the increasing revisionism of Israel’s regional strategy under Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership. That strategy seemingly seeks to upend multilateral norms, bypass traditional diplomacy and pursue influence through direct engagement — often militarized — with non-state entities and marginalized communities.



    Read more:
    How Israel’s domestic crises and Netanyahu’s aim to project power are reshaping the Middle East

    Israel’s July 15 strikes, and an attack on Syria’s Ministry of Defence in Damascus the following day, have drawn strong condemnation from Arab states, Turkey and the United Nations.

    While Israeli officials have justified the attacks as defensive and humanitarian, the intensity and symbolic targets suggest a deeper intention: to demonstrate operational reach, and, more importantly, actively engage in a redesign of the region with fragmentation and state weakness as the main objective.

    Fragmentation of the Middle East

    The United States, while expressing concern over the violence, has largely remained silent on Israel’s expanding role in Syria. This could further embolden Israeli actions in a region where international norms are being increasingly upended and traditional great power engagement is waning.

    Sectarian clashes are likely to continue in Sweida and beyond as Syria’s central government struggles to reassert control. That means that for Israel, the opportunity to deepen its footprint in southern Syria under the guise of minority protection remains.

    But despite its effort to present itself as a stable, moral presence in an otherwise chaotic neighbourhood, Israel could be undermining the very stability it says it wants to protect as it militarizes humanitarianism.

    The world is not not just witnessing a series of airstrikes or another episode of sectarian violence in the Middle East. It’s watching a profound transformation in the regional order — one in which traditional borders, alliances and identities are being reshaped.

    Amid this environment, Israel’s role could evolve not just as a military power, but as a revisionist nation navigating, and helping to bring about, the fragmentation of the Middle East.

    Spyros A. Sofos 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. Israel’s attack on Syria: Protecting the Druze minority or a regional power play? – https://theconversation.com/israels-attack-on-syria-protecting-the-druze-minority-or-a-regional-power-play-261648

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: ‘Pay us what you owe us:’ What the WNBA’s collective bargaining talks reveal about negotiation psychology

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ryan Clutterbuck, Assistant Professor in Sport Management, Brock University

    WNBA all-star players, led by Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark and the Minnesota Lynx’s Naphessa Collier, recently made headlines by wearing “Pay Us What You Owe Us” T-shirts during the pregame warm-up.

    The T-shirts, which are now available for purchase, were a demonstration of players’ frustrations with the WNBA owners and the ongoing collective bargaining agreement negotiation. The collective agreement sets out the terms and conditions of employment (like salaries and benefits) between the league and its players, and is set to expire Oct. 31, 2025.

    Reportedly, players are asking for increased revenue sharing (the current agreement stipulates WNBA players receive only nine per cent of league revenue, relative to their NBA peers who receive 50 per cent), increased compensation (the average WNBA salary is US$147,745) and other benefits.

    Central to these demands is the perception that, despite a surge in popularity, media attention and viewership, WNBA players are still being underpaid and are undervalued.

    Negotiations for a new collective agreement are ongoing. But as the T-shirts and subsequent public statements from the players and the WNBA show, there is increasing frustration with how the process is unfolding.

    What is ‘owed’ to WNBA players?

    Debate over what is “owed” to WNBA players has intensified recently. ESPN commentator Pat McAfee, for example, has suggested the league should simply increase players’ salaries by US$30,000 per player, saying that contracts like Clark’s are “an embarrassment.”

    But others argue this discussion should go beyond players’ salaries. Syracuse University sport management professor Lindsey Darvin writes:

    “The question isn’t whether the WNBA can afford to pay players what they’re worth; it’s whether the league can afford not to make the investments necessary to realize its full potential.”

    According to Darvin, because the WNBA is an economically inefficient — and arguably exploitative — business, its focus should be on increasing revenue, and not simply on reducing its labour costs. For example, with the goal to satisfy increasing market demands for the WNBA, strategies to increase revenue could include expanding the league to new markets, scheduling more games at the 3 p.m. Eastern time slot and increasing the number of regular season games from 44 to 60 or more.

    In sport management classrooms and negotiation workshops at Brock University, we call this “expanding the pie” — working collaboratively, as opposed to combatively, to grow the game and the business so that both players and owners benefit over the long term. But this is easier said than done.

    Information shapes negotiation outcomes

    While it’s still early in the negotiation process, there are lessons that can be learned from this round of collective bargaining. One of those lessons has to do with making and receiving first offers. In particular, two psychological concepts are at play: information asymmetry and the anchoring effect.

    Information asymmetry occurs when one party holds more relevant knowledge than the other. For example, in a typical job negotiation, the employer knows the number of applicants for the position, how much the company is willing to pay and what compensation trends look like across the sector. The candidate, by contrast, lacks most if not all of this information and thus enters the negotiation at a distinct disadvantage.

    The question is: who should make the first salary offer? The general rule is that when you lack critical information, it’s better to let the other side make the first move.

    In the case of the WNBA’s negotiations, the information asymmetry problem is not so obvious. The owners likely have a certain perspective on what is acceptable in terms of sharing league revenue and improving working conditions. But the players possess their own kind of leverage, regarding their willingness to protest or walk out entirely.

    The league made its initial proposal to the players in early July, but it was not well received.

    The ‘anchoring effect’ can skew negotiations

    Another problem influencing negotiations is the “anchoring effect.” This occurs when an initial offer influences subsequent offers and counteroffers, and ultimately has an impact on the final outcome.

    Garage-sale aficionados may recognize this tendency, as buyers often negotiate with the seller’s sticker price in mind, haggling to earn a 25 or 50 per cent discount on an item without considering whether the item is actually worth the cost. Here, the sticker acts as the anchor.

    While sticker prices and first offers are not inherently malicious, some sale prices and first offers are intended to manipulate buyers and negotiators representing the other side. Savvy negotiators deploy strategic anchors, but even they can sometimes miss.

    In maritime terms, anchor scour occurs when a ship’s anchor fails to catch hold and instead drags across the seabed, destroying ecosystems caught in its path.

    In negotiations, a similar process can unfold. When initial moves and first offers fail to catch hold because they are perceived to be unfair by the other side, it can damage relationships and can make subsequent negotiations even more difficult.

    Now, the WNBA may face the consequences of a poorly received anchor. According to WNBA player representative, Satou Sabally, the WNBA’s initial offer was a “slap in the face”.

    New York Liberty’s Breanna Stewart called the players’ meeting with the league on July 17 to discuss a new collective bargaining agreement a “wasted opportunity” while Chicago Sky player Angel Reese called the negotiations “disrespectful.”

    It’s time to right the ship

    Though it’s still early days, we expect negotiations to heat up in the coming weeks as the Halloween deadline to reach a deal approaches.

    There is still time to right the ship, so to speak, but to do so, WNBA players and owners must internalize the potentially disastrous impacts that can come from negotiating over an imagined “fixed pie” instead of expanding it, and dropping anchors that fail to address the other sides’ key interests.

    WNBA players and WNBA team owners now have, in front of them, a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform professional women’s sport in North America, through creatively and collaboratively expanding the pie and paying the players what they’re owed.

    Michele K. Donnelly has received funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).

    Michael Van Bussel and Ryan Clutterbuck do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘Pay us what you owe us:’ What the WNBA’s collective bargaining talks reveal about negotiation psychology – https://theconversation.com/pay-us-what-you-owe-us-what-the-wnbas-collective-bargaining-talks-reveal-about-negotiation-psychology-261731

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Car tires are polluting the environment and killing salmon. A global plastics treaty could help

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Timothy Rodgers, Postdoctoral Fellow in Environmental Engineering, University of British Columbia

    In the 1990s, scientists restoring streams around Seattle, Wash., noticed that returning coho salmon were dying after rainstorms. The effects were immediate: the fish swam in circles, gasping at the surface, then died in a few hours.

    Over the next several decades, researchers chipped away at the problem until in 2020 they discovered the culprit: a chemical called 6PPD-quinone that forms when its parent compound, a tire additive called 6PPD, reacts with ozone.

    6PPD-quinone kills coho salmon at extraordinarily low concentrations, making it one of the most toxic substances to an aquatic species that scientists have ever found.

    Today, a growing body of evidence shows that tire additives and their transformation products, including 6PPD-quinone, are contaminating ecosystems and showing up in people.

    Now, alongside the researchers who made that initial discovery, we’re calling for international regulation of these chemicals to protect people and the environment.

    Our recently published research outlines the hazard posed by tire additives due to their demonstrated toxicity and high emissions near people and sensitive ecosystems, how current regulations don’t do enough to protect us, and how we can do better.

    Tires are complex chemical products

    Tires are far from simple rubber rings. They’re complex chemical products made to endure heat, friction and degradation. For example, 6PPD is in tires to protect them from ozone, which causes tires to crack.

    Unfortunately, little attention was paid to these chemicals until scientists discovered the impacts of 6PPD-quinone and realized these chemicals could be hazardous.

    Once they started looking, researchers found many tire additives, including 6PPD-quinone, in streams near roads, in dust and in the air — wherever there are roads, there is tire additive contamination.

    Although 6PPD-quinone is most lethal to coho, it is also lethal to several other species of salmonids, and it may be toxic to aquatic plants and terrestrial invertebrates.

    We know that exposure to tire wear particles and the chemicals that leach from them affect other aquatic species that are used as indicators of toxicological risk. This widespread contamination occurs because emissions of tire additives are high.

    Every time we drive, we produce particles from tire wear, and those particles release additives into the environment. Tires lose 10-20 per cent of their mass over their lifetime. That means driving emits over one million tonnes of tire particles to the environment in both the United States and the European Union every year.

    All those tire particle emissions represent a large source of chemicals to the environment and high human exposures, especially in cities. Researchers have started to find tire additives and their transformation products in people.

    Although more research is needed on how tire additives affect people, 6PPD is classified as a reproductive toxin, and other tire additives and their transformation products have been associated with increased cancer risk in exposed populations.

    Emerging research with mice indicates that some tire additives and their transformation products impact mammals, with studies showing neurotoxicity, damage to multiple organ systems and impaired fertility from 6PPD-quinone.

    That’s why our team of environmental scientists is calling for urgent global action.

    Plastics treaty

    We’re not arguing that tires shouldn’t have additives, but those additives must be safer. That’s why we are calling for a process that replaces 6PPD and other tire additives with safer alternatives. Tire additives should be nonhazardous across their entire life cycle, and manufacturers should be transparent about what tire additives they are using and what their hazards are.

    Next week, governments from around the world are meeting to negotiate a global treaty to end plastic pollution. We call for tires to be explicitly included in the treaty, and we want to see strong measures around plastic additives including tire additives.

    We want to see:

    • Deadlines for phasing out hazardous chemicals;
    • The ability to mandate alternatives;
    • Transparency around the chemicals used in tires;
    • Independent panels for evaluating additive alternatives and for assessing additive effects;
    • Dedicated working groups focused on tire additives due to their large emissions and demonstrated ecological impacts.

    The good news is that we’ve done this before. After scientists found a hole in the ozone layer, the world banded together under the Montréal Protocol to phase out the most damaging chemicals to the ozone layer. Today, the ozone layer is recovering, averting millions of cases of skin cancer and helping combat climate change. We need the same level of ambition and urgency now.

    Making tires nonhazardous for the environment would help safeguard coho salmon populations, restoring traditional foods to Indigenous Peoples across the Pacific Northwest and protecting a species vital for aquatic ecosystems.

    Since roads are built where people are, reducing the hazard from tire particle pollution would reduce one source of exposure to potentially toxic chemicals, and ensure a future where fewer people are impacted by chemical pollution. It’s time for global action on tire additives, before their impacts become even harder to ignore.

    Timothy Rodgers receives funding from the British Columbia Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund.

    Rachel Scholes receives funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, the Canadian Foundation for Innovation, the BC Knowledge Development Fund, and the BC Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund.

    Simon Drew receives funding from the British Columbia Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund.

    – ref. Car tires are polluting the environment and killing salmon. A global plastics treaty could help – https://theconversation.com/car-tires-are-polluting-the-environment-and-killing-salmon-a-global-plastics-treaty-could-help-261832

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Robert Garcia Statement On Ceasefire Between Cambodia and Thailand

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Garcia California (42nd District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42) released the following statement on the proposed ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand.

    “Long Beach has one of the largest Cambodian populations in the U.S., said Congressman Garcia. “I joined our community to support a ceasefire of hostilities between Cambodia and Thailand. Hundreds of thousands have been displaced and many have lost their lives. We must have peace.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Tsunami alert highlights worth of global early warning system

    Source: United Nations 2

    While the UN-backed International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported 
    that there had been no damage to Japan’s nuclear facilities after an 8.8 magnitude quake was recorded off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, coastal communities have been taking no chances and evacuating to higher ground or moving further inland.

    Alerts were sent out within a few minutes of the Russia quake, the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) confirmed. Although the authorities have now downgraded the threat across Japan as waves of 1.3 metres (4ft 2in) have been recorded, the advice is for people to stay in shelters until the danger diminishes from continuing sea surges.

    “It is very complex; we are observing the tsunami data in real time, so we need people to stay at the shelter until the tsunami is completed,” said tsunami engineer Professor Fumihiko Imamura from Tohoku University.

    Deadly legacy

    In the Asian island nation, memories are still raw from the 11 March 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami which killed more than 18,000 people.

    Just last year, the 7.6 magnitude Noto quake left approximately 500 dead and damaged 150,000 homes.

    The disaster also caused a major accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, forcing tens of thousands of people from their homes. 

    Today’s developments come amid reports that the latest earthquake was among the 10 most powerful ever recorded, hence why the authorities are monitoring its impact so closely.

    So far, alerts have been triggered off the west coast of the United States, in South America from Chile to Mexico and from Papua New Guinea to Vanuatu in the Pacific. 

    “A 8.8 magnitude earthquake is a very large earthquake,” explained Kamal Kishore, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction. 

    “As you go from magnitude eight to nine, or seven to eight, at every step the strength of the earthquake increases exponentially. So, an earthquake which is magnitude eight as opposed to seven would be 30 times bigger.” 

    Faster than a jet liner

    Speaking to UN News, Mr. Kishore highlighted the huge distances tsunamis can cover, picking up enormous energy they then dump on coastal communities. 

    Their progress can be as fast as a passenger jet and can be tracked by deep sea pressure change sensors, or tsunameters, that are connected to surface buoys which relay information in real time to satellites. This data is then modelled by national weather centres, influencing whether alerts are issued.

    “It’s a real threat because the tsunamis travel really fast from one coast to the other,” continued Mr. Kishore. “The Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004 was one of the most devastating in our memory, which travelled from all the way from the coast of Indonesia to the Sri Lankan shores within a little over an hour.”

    Lessons learned

    In addition to the coordination role of UNDRR in the global early warning system, other UN entities also closely involved include the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of the UN agency for Education, Science and Culture (UNESCO-IOC).  

    The IOC’s role is critical in making sure that countries that use tsunami-tracking instrumentation follow the same standard. 

    These efforts are in line with the UN Secretary-General’s Early Warnings for All initiative to ensure that everyone on Earth is protected from hazardous weather, water or climate events through lifesaving early warning systems.

    Today, one in three people – and mainly in least developed countries and Small Island Developing States – lacks access to adequate multi-hazard early warning systems.

    “Tsunami prevention really highlights how important it is to have multilateral action” such as sharing data to run the algorithms behind wave modelling systems, insisted the UN’s Mr. Kishore. 

    “There are countries which are separated by thousands of kilometres of ocean, but they are affected by the same hazard,” he continued. 

    “If you do not share information on observing these hazards, not just in the location where they have occurred, but on what is happening in the intermediate locations in the ocean…we will not be able to warn our citizens.”  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DeGette Statement Following OMB Attempt to Slash NIH, Biomedical Research

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (First District of Colorado)

    DENVER, CO — Today, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-01), Ranking Member of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, issued the following statement after the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) reversed course on directing the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to only use appropriated dollars for salaries, administrative expenses, and expenses associated with the NIH Clinical Center which would have prohibited the investment of at least $15 billion in biomedical research.

    “The Office of Management and Budget may not change or disregard the law. Congress appropriated $47.3 billion for NIH in fiscal year 2024 appropriations, and it continued that funding level in the fiscal year 2025 continuing resolution. That funding was made available to support research, not just at NIH but at institutions across the country and around the world. OMB and its director, Russ Vought, may not change that reality with the stroke of a pen.

    “NIH-funded research has fueled treatments and cures for sickle cell disease, Hepatitis C, and cystic fibrosis. It has led to effective treatments for myriad cancers, leading in part to a reduction in the cancer death rate by a third in the past 30 years. Halting this progress means death and misery for millions of Americans with diseases that NIH seeks to cure. That is why Congress has continued to empower NIH. Congress has given OMB and NIH zero authority to curtail grantmaking.

    “Russ Vought’s latest attempt to strangle biomedical research is just a continuation of his disdain for Congress, science, and the American people. It was apparently a bridge too far, even for Donald Trump and the White House, which reportedly pushed back on the directive from OMB and Vought. There must be accountability for this directive, and Director Vought must testify before Congress to explain his illegal attempt to gut biomedical research.” 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –