NewzIntel.com

Category: Americas

  • MIL-OSI China: Messi’s Miami set for PSG showdown at Club World Cup

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

    Paris Saint-Germain, Botafogo, Inter Miami and Palmeiras reached the FIFA Club World Cup round of 16 on Monday while Atletico Madrid was eliminated on goal difference.

    Porto and Al Ahly also bowed out after a frenetic 4-4 draw in New Jersey, where Wessam Abou Ali struck a hat trick for the Egyptian side.

    In Pasadena, Botafogo progressed despite a 1-0 loss to Atletico Madrid in sweltering heat at the Rose Bowl. Needing to win by at least a three-goal margin to advance, the Spanish club dominated for long periods but struggled to find a way past the Brazilian side’s low defensive block.

    Antoine Griezmann finally broke Botafogo’s resistance three minutes from time when he capitalized on lax defending to sweep a first-time effort past goalkeeper John Victor after Julian Alvarez’s cross.

    But it proved too little too late as the Colchoneros were sent packing from the tournament.

    “The team did what was needed to get to the next stage,” Botafogo’s former Manchester United defender Alex Telles said after the match.

    “Some people said we were only here to see Mickey Mouse at Disneyland, but we’ve made it out of the group of death. It shows the work done by this incredible group of players.”

    Botafogo, which finished second in Group B, will meet Brazilian rivals Palmeiras in the next round at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field on Saturday.

    Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone said he was disappointed but not concerned by his team’s early exit.

    “We have the feeling of frustration at not being able to progress,” the Argentine said. “We are calm. We are more than clear about what needs to be improved and this helps us to do so. I’m proud of the work that the players have done. We gave absolutely everything we have. We won two games out of three. And sadly, we are out.”

    In Seattle, Paris Saint-Germain comfortably secured its passage to the next stage with a 2-0 victory over Seattle Sounders.

    The European champions opened the scoring in the 35th minute when Vitinha’s long-range effort deflected in off teammate Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

    Achraf Hakimi doubled the lead just after the hour, controlling Bradley Barcola’s cross before rifling a shot past Swiss goalkeeper Stefan Frei.

    PSG will vie for a place in the quarterfinals against Inter Miami in Atlanta on Sunday.

    “We want to go as far as possible, and I think the players are ready,” PSG manager Luis Enrique told a post-match news conference. “The real competition starts now, and it will be very difficult.”

    In Miami, Brazil’s Palmeiras recovered from two goals down to earn a 2-2 draw with Inter Miami.

    Tadeo Allende handed Inter Miami the lead with a clinical finish following a counterattack before Luis Suarez made it 2-0 by dancing around Bruno Fuchs and firing a shot past goalkeeper Weverton.

    But the Sao Paulo-based club lifted its intensity and Paulinho pulled a goal back by slotting home from 10 yards after Allan’s layoff. The equalizer came three minutes from time when Mauricio pounced on a loose ball and smashed a rising effort beyond Oscar Ustari.

    “We weren’t able to play the way we wanted to in the first half but in the second half we regained our fighting spirit,” Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira said.

    “Our first objective is now completed. Now we can rest, recuperate and prepare for the knockout phase.”

    In Monday’s other match, Abou Ali’s fine solo performance was not enough to earn Al Ahly a spot in the next round as the Egyptian side drew 4-4 with Porto, which also exited the tournament.

    Abou Ali netted in the 15th minute before converting from the penalty spot just before halftime and adding a third goal shortly after the restart.

    Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane was also on target for the Cairo-based side while Rodrigo Moura, William Gomes, Samu Aghehowa and Pepe scored for the Portuguese outfit.

    Both teams managed only two draws each from their three group fixtures.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: State of Qatar Sends Letter to UN Secretary-General, Security Council Regarding Attack on Al-Udeid Air Base by Iranian Revolutionary Guard

    Source: Government of Qatar

    New York, June 24 , 2025

    The State of Qatar sent a letter to HE Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres and HE Permanent Representative of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of June Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, requesting that it be circulated to the members of the Security Council and issued as an official document of the Council.

    In the letter addressed by HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani to the members of the Security Council and HE the UN Secretary-General, the State of Qatar informed them of an extremely dangerous escalation that represents a flagrant violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the State of Qatar, posing a direct threat to regional peace and security. The letter noted that on Monday evening, the State of Qatar was subjected to a missile attack by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard targeting Al-Udeid Air Base, which was successfully intercepted by Qatari air defenses.

    The State of Qatar expressed its strong condemnation of the missile attack targeting the base, considering it a flagrant violation of its sovereignty and airspace, as well as of international law and the United Nations Charter. The State of Qatar stressed that it reserves the right to respond directly in a manner equivalent with the nature and scale of this blatant aggression and in accordance with the Charter and international law.

    The State of Qatar stressed that the continuation of such escalating military actions would undermine security and stability in the region and drag it into situations that would have disastrous repercussions for international peace and security. The State also called for an immediate cessation of all military actions and a serious return to the negotiating table and dialogue.

    The State of Qatar pointed out that it was among the first countries to warn of the consequences of Israeli escalation in the region, calling for a priority of diplomatic solutions, adhering to the principles of good neighborliness and non-escalation, and affirming that dialogue is the only way to overcome current crises and preserve the security of the region and the safety of its people.

    The State of Qatar stressed the need for the Security Council to fulfill its responsibilities under the United Nations Charter, affirming the need for the Council to take urgent measures to impose an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire throughout the Middle East to prevent the region from sliding into further dangerous escalation.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Atletico exit Club World Cup despite Griezmann strike sealing win over Botafogo

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A late strike from Antoine Griezmann handed Atletico Madrid a 1-0 win over Botafogo on Monday but the victory could not save the LaLiga side from a group stage exit at the Club World Cup.

    Following Paris St Germain’s 2-0 over Seattle Sounders in Monday’s other Group B game, the French side finished level on six points with Botafogo and Atletico.

    However, PSG secured top spot thanks to a superior goal difference, with Brazilian side Botafogo also advancing to the last 16 after finishing second.

    Atletico, in third, and Seattle, bottom with no points after three games, were eliminated.

    PSG will face the Group A runners-up on Sunday, while Botafogo will take on the Group A winners on Saturday.

    Even though they were aware that a two-goal defeat would secure them a place in the next round, Botafogo’s Igor Jesus and Jefferson Savarino forced Atletico keeper Jan Oblak to make a couple of brilliant saves.

    Following their shock 1-0 win over Champions League winners PSG, Botafogo defended their ground fairly well throughout a cagey encounter, with Atletico dominating possession but rarely presenting a real threat to goalkeeper John.

    However, tempers spilled over when Atletico appealed for a penalty after Botafogo’s Gregory appeared to step on Julian Alvarez’s foot inside the box.

    Following a VAR review, referee Cesar Ramos ruled out the penalty due to an earlier foul by Atletico’s Alexander Sorloth in the build-up.

    The decision left Atletico manager Diego Simeone furious, with the Argentine storming onto the pitch at halftime to confront the Mexican official.

    As Atletico made a late run desperately looking for the three goals they needed, substitute Griezmann fired the winner in the 87th minute from inside the box, a bittersweet goal that denied Botafogo a top-placed finish in the group and handing PSG that accolade.

    (Reuters)

  • Supreme Court lifts limits on Trump deporting migrants to countries not their own

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The U.S. Supreme Court cleared the way on Monday for President Donald Trump’s administration to resume deporting migrants to countries other than their own without offering them a chance to show the harms they could face, handing him another victory in his aggressive pursuit of mass deportations.

    In an action that prompted a sharp dissent from its three liberal justices, the court granted the administration’s request to lift a judicial order requiring that migrants set for deportation to so-called “third countries” get a “meaningful opportunity” to tell U.S. officials they are at risk of torture at their new destination, while a legal challenge plays out.

    Boston-based U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy had issued the order on April 18.

    The Supreme Court’s brief order was unsigned and offered no reasoning, as is common when it decides emergency requests. The court has a 6-3 conservative majority.

    Justice Sonia Sotomayor, joined by the two other liberal justices, called the decision a “gross abuse” of the court’s power.

    “Apparently, the court finds the idea that thousands will suffer violence in far-flung locales more palatable than the remote possibility that a district court exceeded its remedial powers when it ordered the government to provide notice and process to which the plaintiffs are constitutionally and statutorily entitled,” Sotomayor wrote.

    Sotomayor called the court’s action “as incomprehensible as it is inexcusable.”

    Murphy had found that the administration’s policy of “executing third-country removals without providing notice and a meaningful opportunity to present fear-based claims” likely violates the U.S. Constitution’s due process protections. Due process generally requires the government to provide notice and an opportunity for a hearing before taking certain adverse actions.

    After the Department of Homeland Security moved in February to step up rapid deportations to third countries, immigrant rights groups filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of a group of migrants seeking to prevent their removal to such places without notice and to gain chance to assert the harms they could face.

    Murphy on May 21 found the Trump administration violated his order requiring additional steps before attempting to send a group of migrants to politically unstable South Sudan, which the U.S. State Department has urged Americans to avoid “due to crime, kidnapping and armed conflict.”

    The judge’s intervention prompted the U.S. government to keep the migrants at a military base in Djibouti.

    After the U.S. Supreme Court ruling, Murphy in a court order made clear that his decision preventing the rapid deportation of eight men to South Sudan “remains in full force and effect.”

    Trina Realmuto, executive director of the National Immigration Litigation Alliance, which helps represent the plaintiffs, called the ramifications of the court’s action “horrifying,” stripping away “critical due process protections that have been protecting our class members from torture and death.”

    The administration told the Supreme Court that its third-country policy already complied with due process and is critical for removing migrants who commit crimes because their countries of origin are often unwilling to take them back. It said that all the South Sudan-destined migrants had committed “heinous crimes” in the United States including murder, arson and armed robbery.

    “The Supreme Court’s stay of a left-wing district judge’s injunction reaffirms the president’s authority to remove criminal illegal aliens from our country and Make America Safe Again,” White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said after Monday’s decision.

    “Fire up the deportation planes,” said Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin.

    A FLOOD OF CASES

    The dispute is one of many legal challenges to Trump policies to have reached the nation’s highest judicial body since he returned to office in January.

    The Supreme Court in May let Trump end humanitarian programs for hundreds of thousands of migrants to live and work in the United States temporarily. The justices, however, faulted the administration’s treatment of some migrants whom Trump targeted for removal under the Alien Enemies Act – a 1798 law that historically has been employed only in wartime – as inadequate under constitutional due process protections.

    Sotomayor said that in sending migrants to South Sudan, and in another instance four others to the U.S. naval base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and on to El Salvador, the administration “openly flouted two court orders” issued by Murphy. Sotomayor also pointed to the separate Alien Enemies Act litigation in which questions were raised about the administration’s compliance with an order issued by a judge in that case.

    “This is not the first time the court closes its eyes to noncompliance, nor, I fear, will it be the last,” Sotomayor wrote. “Yet each time this court rewards noncompliance with discretionary relief, it further erodes respect for courts and for the rule of law.”

    The administration asked the Supreme Court to intervene after the Boston-based 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on May 16 declined to put Murphy’s decision on hold.

    Media has also reported that U.S. officials had been considering sending migrants to Libya, another politically unstable country, despite previous U.S. condemnation of Libya’s harsh treatment of detainees.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson reaffirmed Africa’s commitment to a bold & equal partnership with the United States, stating, “We’re not seeking aid, but building co-created solutions”


    Download logo

    At the #USAfricaSummit2025 in Luanda, AU Commission Chairperson H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf reaffirmed Africa’s commitment to a bold & equal partnership with the United States, stating, “We’re not seeking aid, but building co-created solutions.”

    He noted that with 1.3 billion people, abundant resources, & a surge in innovation, Africa is poised for transformative growth. From agribusiness in West Africa to fintech in East Africa, the AU is supporting private sector-led development across all regions.

    He also underscored that strategic sectors such as manufacturing, digital, energy, & agro-industry, are open for U.S. investment. The AU’s Private Sector Forum, SME and startup legislation, & its Digital Strategy are laying the groundwork for inclusive, sustainable prosperity.

    He concluded by saying “this should not just be a summit, but a call to action,” he said. “Together, let’s walk the pathways to prosperity—with unity, purpose, & Agenda 2063 as our guide.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Iran-Israel ceasefire begins: Iranian TV

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

    Iran’s Press TV said Tuesday that ceasefire begins following waves of Iranian attacks on Israel.

    Early Tuesday, Israel’s military said it was working to intercept Iranian missiles launched “a short while ago,” without specifying the exact time of the attack.

    “A short while ago, sirens sounded in several areas across Israel following the identification of missiles launched from Iran toward the State of Israel,” the military said in a statement posted on Telegram around 5:00 a.m. local time (0200 GMT). Iran has since fired waves of missiles at Israel, according to Iranian state media.

    Israel’s skies are closed to planes until further notice, said Israeli airport authorities.

    U.S. President Donald Trump had earlier announced that a ceasefire between the two sides would begin around 0400 GMT, with Iran expected to halt its operations first.

    Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said earlier that there was no “agreement” on a ceasefire between Iran and Israel. However, he suggested Iran would be prepared to halt further retaliation if Israeli attacks stopped by 4 a.m. Tehran time (0030 GMT).

    “If Israel stops its illegal aggression against the Iranian people no later than 4 a.m., Iran has no intention of continuing its response afterwards,” Araqchi wrote in a post on X, adding that “the final decision on the cessation of our military operations will be made later.”

    Hours earlier, a senior Iranian official told CNN that Tehran had not received any formal ceasefire proposal from the United States and saw no reason to halt hostilities.

    “At this very moment, the enemy is committing aggression against Iran, and Iran is on the verge of intensifying its retaliatory strikes, with no ear to listen to the lies of its enemies,” the official was quoted as saying. He added that remarks from U.S. and Israeli leaders would be seen as a “deception” intended to justify further attacks on Iran.

    The conflicting narratives raised questions about the implementation and durability of any potential ceasefire. As of Monday night, neither Israeli nor Iranian officials had publicly confirmed any agreement. The White House and the Pentagon had also not issued formal statements, and it remained unclear whether the reported deal had been communicated through diplomatic channels, or whether either side intended to follow the terms.

    U.S. President Donald Trump announced Monday evening that Israel and Iran have reached a formal agreement to implement a complete and total ceasefire, marking what he called the end of the “12-Day War.”

    In a post on his Truth Social platform Monday, Trump said the ceasefire will initially last 12 hours, during which the opposing sides will maintain a posture of “peace and respect.”

    “On the assumption that everything works as it should, which it will,” Trump wrote, “I would like to congratulate both countries… on having the stamina, courage, and intelligence to end what should be called ‘THE 12 DAY WAR.’”

    Calling the agreement a breakthrough that “could have saved the Middle East from years of destruction,” Trump ended his announcement with a sweeping message of unity: “God bless Israel, God bless Iran, God bless the Middle East, God bless the United States of America, and GOD BLESS THE WORLD!”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Palmeiras salvage draw with Inter Miami as both advance to Club World Cup last 16

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Palmeiras rallied from two goals down to snatch a 2-2 draw against Inter Miami and qualify top of Group A for the Club World Cup last 16 on Monday, a result that sent both teams through to the knockout phase.

    Goals from Tadeo Allende and Luis Suarez gave Miami a two-goal lead before Paulinho and Mauricio scored in the last 10 minutes to get Palmeiras back on level terms.

    Both teams finished on five points with Inter Miami second on goal difference, while Al-Ahly and Porto were both eliminated after drawing 4-4.

    Lionel Messi’s side will take on European champions Paris St Germain, where the Argentine spent two seasons from 2021-23, while Palmeiras face fierce rivals Botafogo in an all-Brazilian clash for a place in the quarter-finals.

    “It was a great game from us, it’s difficult to play against one of the best teams in South America,” said Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano, who described it as a “historic night” for Major League Soccer.

    “Maybe at the end we had the game in our hands so the feeling is strange but before the start of the tournament if someone told me we were going to have this kind of performance against these kind of teams I would have signed it.”

    Inter Miami are the only team from MLS to reach the last 16 after both Los Angeles FC and the Seattle Sounders were eliminated.

    With the crowd heavily favouring Palmeiras and creating an atmosphere that made it seem like an away game for hosts Miami, the Brazilian side started with intensity, pressing high up the pitch but despite their energy the final ball lacked precision.

    Miami struck in the 16th minute when Allende surged past a static Palmeiras defence and coolly slotted home after a 40-metre run.

    Allende came close again early in the second half, flashing a shot narrowly wide after another quick counterattack, before Messi brought fans to their feet with a dipping volley from distance that sailed just over.

    Suarez, quiet for much of the game, made no mistake in the 65th minute as he cut onto his left foot and fired into the top corner from a tight angle to make it 2-0.

    Palmeiras pulled one back 10 minutes from time through substitute Paulinho, who guided a low finish into the corner.

    Seven minutes later Mauricio picked up a loose clearance and fired home from the penalty spot to make sure Palmeiras would keep top spot in the group.

    (Reuters)

  • Palmeiras salvage draw with Inter Miami as both advance to Club World Cup last 16

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Palmeiras rallied from two goals down to snatch a 2-2 draw against Inter Miami and qualify top of Group A for the Club World Cup last 16 on Monday, a result that sent both teams through to the knockout phase.

    Goals from Tadeo Allende and Luis Suarez gave Miami a two-goal lead before Paulinho and Mauricio scored in the last 10 minutes to get Palmeiras back on level terms.

    Both teams finished on five points with Inter Miami second on goal difference, while Al-Ahly and Porto were both eliminated after drawing 4-4.

    Lionel Messi’s side will take on European champions Paris St Germain, where the Argentine spent two seasons from 2021-23, while Palmeiras face fierce rivals Botafogo in an all-Brazilian clash for a place in the quarter-finals.

    “It was a great game from us, it’s difficult to play against one of the best teams in South America,” said Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano, who described it as a “historic night” for Major League Soccer.

    “Maybe at the end we had the game in our hands so the feeling is strange but before the start of the tournament if someone told me we were going to have this kind of performance against these kind of teams I would have signed it.”

    Inter Miami are the only team from MLS to reach the last 16 after both Los Angeles FC and the Seattle Sounders were eliminated.

    With the crowd heavily favouring Palmeiras and creating an atmosphere that made it seem like an away game for hosts Miami, the Brazilian side started with intensity, pressing high up the pitch but despite their energy the final ball lacked precision.

    Miami struck in the 16th minute when Allende surged past a static Palmeiras defence and coolly slotted home after a 40-metre run.

    Allende came close again early in the second half, flashing a shot narrowly wide after another quick counterattack, before Messi brought fans to their feet with a dipping volley from distance that sailed just over.

    Suarez, quiet for much of the game, made no mistake in the 65th minute as he cut onto his left foot and fired into the top corner from a tight angle to make it 2-0.

    Palmeiras pulled one back 10 minutes from time through substitute Paulinho, who guided a low finish into the corner.

    Seven minutes later Mauricio picked up a loose clearance and fired home from the penalty spot to make sure Palmeiras would keep top spot in the group.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI USA: Artificial Intelligence for Materials Science (AIMS) Workshop

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Credit: Crissy Robinson/NIST

    As part of the JARVIS workshop series, the 6th Artificial Intelligence for Materials Science (AIMS) workshop will be held as an in-person only event at the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (NCCoE) located at 9700 Great Seneca Highway in Rockville, Maryland on July 9 – 10, 2025. This event is sponsored by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

    The scope of the workshop is briefly stated below:

    The Materials Genome Initiative (MGI) promises to expedite materials discovery through high-throughput computation and high-throughput experiments. The application of artificial-intelligence (AI) tools such as machine learning, deep learning and various optimization techniques is critical to achieving such a goal.

    Some of the key research areas for materials AI include: developing well-curated and diverse datasets, choosing effective representations for materials, inverse materials design, integrating autonomous experiments and theory, challenges and advantages of self-driving laboratories, merging physics-based models with AI models, and choosing appropriate algorithms/work-flows. Lastly, uncertainty quantification in AI-based predictions for material properties and issues related to building infrastructure for disseminating AI knowledge are of immense importance for making AI- based materials investigation successful. This workshop is intended to cover all the above-mentioned challenges. To make the workshop as effective as possible we plan to largely but not exclusively focus on inorganic solid-state materials.

    Topics addressed in this workshop will include (but not be limited to):

    – Datasets and tools for employing AI for materials

    – Integrating experiments with AI techniques

    – Graph neural networks for materials

    – Comparison of AI techniques for materials

    – Challenges of applying AI to materials

    – Uncertainty quantification and building trust in AI predictions

    – Generative modeling

    – Foundation models

    – Machine learning force fields

    – Large language models

    – Autonomous experimentation

    If registered participants are interested in presenting a poster, please send name, affiliation, title, and abstract to daniel.wines [at] nist.gov (daniel[dot]wines[at]nist[dot]gov), no later than June 27, 2025. We plan to hold a best poster competition for early career researchers.

    List of Speakers

    Jiaman Hu Wisconsin
    Tess Smidt MIT
    Brandon Wood Meta
    Heather Kulik MIT
    Joseph Krause Radical AI
    Ichiro Takeuchi UMD
    Martin Seifrid NC State
    Olexandr Isayev CMU
    Ali Hamze Samsung
    Simon J.L. Billinge Columbia
    Ankit Agrawal Northwestern
    Jason Hattrick-Simpers University of Toronto
    Arun Mannodi-Kanakkithodi Purdue
    Benji Maruyama AFRL
    Panchapakesan Ganesh ORNL
    Roberto Car Princeton
    Shengyen Li NIST
    Aditya Nandy UCLA
    Steven Torrisi Toyota
    Olga S. Ovchinnikova Thermo Fisher Scientific
    Milad Abolhasani NC State University
    Luis Barroso-Luque Meta
    Nathan Johnson ZEISS
    Corey Oses JHU

    A room block has been reserved at the following location:

    Sheraton Rockville

    Address: 920 King Farm Blvd, Rockville, MD 20850

    Rate: $159/night (excluding taxes and fees). Rate includes breakfast and shuttle to and from NCCoE.

    CLICK HERE to book your room.

    Last day to book your room: June 20, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 77 Software Verification and Validation Part I & II

    Source: US Government research organizations

    You will need a government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport or driver’s license) when you check into the Visitors Center at the entrance of NIST and if bringing a vehicle onto the NIST campus, a vehicle registration card.

    PLEASE NOTE: Effective July 21, 2014, under the REAL ID Act of 2005 (https://www.dhs.gov/real-id/real-id-frequently-asked-questions), agencies, including NIST, can only accept a state-issued driver’s license or identification card for access to federal facilities if issued by states that are REAL ID compliant or have an extension. NIST currently accepts other forms of federally issued identification in lieu of a state-issued driver’s license, such as a valid passport, passport card, DOD’s Common Access Card (CAC), Veterans ID, Federal Agency HSPD-12 IDs, Military Dependents ID, Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC), and TSA Trusted Traveler ID. See Visitor Information for the latest information.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Iris Experts Group (IEG) Annual Meeting

    Source: US Government research organizations

    The Iris Experts Group is a forum for the discussion of technical questions of interest to USG agencies and their staff that are employing or may employ iris recognition to carry out their mission.

    This is the annual meeting.  The presentations include status updates on government projects and IEG activities as well as presentations from academic, government and commercial research & development efforts.

    The meeting is open to all who can legally transact business with NIST.  Registration is required, but there is no registration fee.  
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NIST OWM Info Hour: Tips and Tools for Navigating the PDF Electronic Version of NIST Handbooks

    Source: US Government research organizations

    This is the last year (2025) that NIST Handbooks 44, 130, and 133 will be printed in hard copy. In this informational session, we will discuss how to effectively move through and access information within Portable Document Format (PDF) NIST OWM Handbooks. We will demonstrate how a NIST Handbook publication in a PDF file format can be displayed using various tools and features, including page navigation, bookmarks, search functions, links, and document structure, enabling them to quickly locate specific content within complex PDF documents, often utilizing a PDF reader like Adobe Acrobat.

    Add to Calendar*
    *Having trouble adding this to Outlook

    Microsoft Teams: Join the meeting now
    Meeting ID: 232 456 423 056
    Passcode: Up7JY9fK 

    There is no fee to attend the event, and no certificates will be issued.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Metrology for Digital Twins: Connecting CHIPS Metrology and SMART USA

    Source: US Government research organizations

    This is a two-part CHIPS Metrology + SMART USA workshop series, focused on building meaningful connections between SMART USA members and CHIPS Metrology-funded research teams. The first event will be a virtual on June 17, 2025 that will set the foundation for the in-person workshop on June 24, 2025. The event aims to align research priorities with industry needs, showcase and refine CHIPS Metrology-funded research, and facilitate in-depth knowledge exchange through structured sessions. The workshop will also explore actionable opportunities for integrating SMART USA with METIS, CHIPS Metrology’s data exchange ecosystem, to accelerate innovation and competitiveness in the U.S. semiconductor industry.

    Visitor Access Requirement:

    • For Non-US Citizens:  Please have your valid passport for photo identification.*
    • For US Permanent Residents: Please have your green card for photo identification.*
    • For US Citizens: Please have your state-issued driver’s license. Regarding Real-ID requirements, all states are in compliance or have an extension through May 2025.*
      NIST also accepts other forms of federally issued identification in lieu of a state-issued driver’s license, such as a valid passport, passport card, DOD’s Common Access Card (CAC), Veterans ID, Federal Agency HSPD-12 IDs, and Military Dependents ID.

    *Use of apps, physical photocopies, and/or digital screenshots of your ID, Passport or Green card will not be accepted.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The war won’t end Iran’s nuclear program – it will drive it underground, following North Korea’s model

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anthony Burke, Professor of Environmental Politics & International Relations, UNSW Sydney

    The United States’ and Israel’s strikes on Iran are concerning, and not just for the questionable legal justifications provided by both governments.

    Even if their attacks cause severe damage to Iran’s nuclear facilities, this will only harden Iran’s resolve to acquire a bomb.

    And if Iran follows through on its threat to pull out of the Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), this will gravely damage the global nuclear nonproliferation regime.

    In a decade of international security crises, this could be the most serious. Is there still time to prevent this from happening?

    A successful but vulnerable treaty

    In May 2015, I attended the five-yearly review conference of the NPT. Delegates debated a draft outcome for weeks, and then, not for the first time, went home with nothing. Delegates from the US, United Kingdom and Canada blocked the final outcome to prevent words being added that would call for Israel to attend a disarmament conference.

    Russia did the same in 2022 in protest at language on its illegal occupation of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station in Ukraine.

    Now, in the latest challenge to the NPT, Israel and the US have bombed Iran’s nuclear complexes to ostensibly enforce a treaty neither one respects.

    When the treaty was adopted in 1968, it allowed the five nuclear-armed states at the time – the US, Soviet Union, France, UK and China – to join if they committed not to pass weapons or material to other states, and to disarm themselves.

    All other members had to pledge never to acquire nuclear weapons. Newer nuclear powers were not permitted to join unless they gave up their weapons.

    Israel declined to join, as it had developed its own undeclared nuclear arsenal by the late 1960s. India, Pakistan and South Sudan have also never signed; North Korea was a member but withdrew in 2003. Only South Sudan does not have nuclear weapons today.

    To make the obligations enforceable and strengthen safeguards against the diversion of nuclear material to non-nuclear weapons states, members were later required to sign the IAEA Additional Protocol. This gave the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) wide powers to inspect a state’s nuclear facilities and detect violations.

    It was the IAEA that first blew the whistle on Iran’s concerning uranium enrichment activity in 2003. Just before Israel’s attacks this month, the organisation also reported Iran was in breach of its obligations under the NPT for the first time in two decades.

    The NPT is arguably the world’s most universal, important and successful security treaty, but it is also paradoxically vulnerable.

    The treaty’s underlying consensus has been damaged by the failure of the five nuclear-weapon states to disarm as required, and by the failure to prevent North Korea from developing a now formidable nuclear arsenal.

    North Korea withdrew from the treaty in 2003, tested a weapon in 2006, and now may have up to 50 warheads.

    Iran could be next.

    How things can deteriorate from here

    Iran argues Israel’s attacks have undermined the credibility of the IAEA, given Israel used the IAEA’s new report on Iran as a pretext for its strikes, taking the matter out of the hands of the UN Security Council.

    For its part, the IAEA has maintained a principled position and criticised both the US and Israeli strikes.

    Iran has retaliated with its own missile strikes against both Israel and a US base in Qatar. In addition, it wasted no time announcing it would withdraw from the NPT.

    On June 23, an Iranian parliament committee also approved a bill that would fully suspend Iran’s cooperation with the IAEA, including allowing inspections and submitting reports to the organisation.

    Iran’s envoy to the IAEA, Reza Najafi, said the US strikes:

    […] delivered a fundamental and irreparable blow to the international non-proliferation regime conclusively demonstrating that the existing NPT framework has been rendered ineffective.

    Even if Israel and the US consider their bombing campaign successful, it has almost certainly renewed the Iranians’ resolve to build a weapon. The strikes may only delay an Iranian bomb by a few years.

    Iran will have two paths to do so. The slower path would be to reconstitute its enrichment activity and obtain nuclear implosion designs, which create extremely devastating weapons, from Russia or North Korea.

    Alternatively, Russia could send Iran some of its weapons. This should be a real concern given Moscow’s cascade of withdrawals from critical arms control agreements over the last decade.

    An Iranian bomb could then trigger NPT withdrawals by other regional states, especially Saudi Arabia, who suddenly face a new threat to their security.

    Why Iran might now pursue a bomb

    Iran’s support for Hamas, Hezbollah and Syria’s Assad regime certainly shows it is a dangerous international actor. Iranian leaders have also long used alarming rhetoric about Israel’s destruction.

    However repugnant the words, Israeli and US conservatives have misjudged Iran’s motives in seeking nuclear weapons.

    Israel fears an Iranian bomb would be an existential threat to its survival, given Iran’s promises to destroy it. But this neglects the fact that Israel already possesses a potent (if undeclared) nuclear deterrent capability.

    Israeli anxieties about an Iranian bomb should not be dismissed. But other analysts (myself included) see Iran’s desire for nuclear weapons capability more as a way to establish deterrence to prevent future military attacks from Israel and the US to protect their regime.

    Iranians were shaken by Iraq’s invasion in 1980 and then again by the US-led removal of Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003. This war with Israel and the US will shake them even more.

    Last week, I felt that if the Israeli bombing ceased, a new diplomatic effort to bring Iran into compliance with the IAEA and persuade it to abandon its program might have a chance.

    However, the US strikes may have buried that possibility for decades. And by then, the damage to the nonproliferation regime could be irreversible.

    Anthony Burke received funding from the UK’s Economic and Social Research Council for a project on global nuclear governance (2014–17).

    – ref. The war won’t end Iran’s nuclear program – it will drive it underground, following North Korea’s model – https://theconversation.com/the-war-wont-end-irans-nuclear-program-it-will-drive-it-underground-following-north-koreas-model-259281

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Rand Paul Introduces “End the Fed’s Big Bank Bailout Act”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    June 20th, 2025

     Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343

    Dr. Rand Paul Introduces “End the Fed’s Big Bank Bailout Act”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY)  introduced the End the Fed’s Big Bank Bailout Act, legislation to prohibit the Federal Reserve from paying interest on balances held at Federal Reserve banks by or on behalf of depository institutions.

    “Our country is over $36 trillion in debt,” said Dr. Paul. “But no one pays attention to the hundreds of billions of dollars the Federal Reserve unnecessarily paid to banks to NOT lend money to consumers.”

    Until 2008, the Federal Reserve paid no interest to banks on reserve balances. That changed after the financial crisis, when Congress authorized the payments as a tool to control the money supply. From 2008 to 2016, interest payments averaged just $5 billion annually. But with the Fed’s rate now above 4 percent, these payments have exploded.

    “In 2022, the Fed paid $60 billion to banks. In 2023, the Fed payments to banks rose to over $176 billion. And in 2024, the Fed’s subsidy to banks rose to about $186 billion. The Fed has been operating at a loss since September 2022,” Dr. Paul continued. “While the Fed no longer has profits and ceased returning those profits to the taxpayers by remitting those funds to the Treasury, it still, to this very day, pays what has amounted to hundreds of billions of dollars to banks.”

    The End the Fed’s Big Bank Bailout Act amends Section 19 of the Federal Reserve Act to eliminate the Fed’s authority to make these interest payments. Senator Paul argues this simple change could save more than a trillion dollars over the next decade.

    “At a time of persistent and self-imposed worsening losses at the Fed, the manipulators of the American economy continue to pay banks to do nothing but have their funds sit in a safe,” said Dr. Paul. “How can anybody, especially the populist Republicans and the entire Democratic Caucus, defend such a subsidy when supposed income inequality and the national debt is at the top of the political agenda?”

     Read the bill HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Rand Paul Introduces the Restore Prescription Drugs Discount Act 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    June 23rd, 2025

     Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-434

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) today introduced the Restore Prescription Drugs Discount Act, a bill to eliminate an outdated antitrust law that hinders insurers and employers from negotiating upfront discounts for better prices on prescription drugs.

    As a result of a class action lawsuit in the 1990s, the Robinson-Patman Act of 1936 prohibits insurers and employers from negotiating upfront discounts with pharmaceutical companies to drive the cost of prescription drugs down. To comply with this ruling, drug manufacturers shifted from offering upfront discounts to retroactive discounts, also known as rebates, provided upon proof of sales. Simply put, the Robinson-Patman Act’s ban on upfront discounts leaves insurers and employers without leverage to negotiate, leading to higher costs for patients.

    Dr. Paul’s bill would fully repeal the law and give insurers the ability to negotiate savings more transparently, helping drive down drug prices for patients.

    “The Robinson-Patman Act is a relic from the Great Depression,” said Dr. Paul. “It punishes direct discounting and drives up costs for patients. Repealing it will remove an unnecessary legal barrier and bring transparency and competition back to the prescription drug market.”

    Read the full bill HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Congressman Valadao’s Romance Scam Prevention Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G Valadao (CA-21)

    WASHINGTON – Today, the House of Representatives unanimously passed H.R. 2481, the Romance Scam Prevention Act. Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the bipartisan legislation in April alongside Reps. Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Tom Suozzi (NY-03), and Craig Goldman (TX-12). This bill would require dating apps and services to issue fraud ban notifications to users who have interacted with a person removed from the app for fraudulent activity.

    Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) introduced the companion bill in the Senate, which passed out of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on March 12, 2025.

    “Millions of Americans use online dating platforms to connect with romantic partners, but unfortunately, they’ve also become a way for scammers to target and exploit unsuspecting victims,” said Congressman Valadao. “As criminals become more sophisticated, it’s important we have safeguards in place to protect users. The Romance Scam Prevention Act is a bipartisan effort to enhance online safety and combat financial fraud, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to get this bill across the finish line.”

    “Online dating services are being used as a platform for bad actors to target and exploit individuals, yet protections continue to lag behind,” said Rep. Pettersen. “Notifying users if they have been in contact with a potential scammer is a basic security feature that every online dating service should provide. This bipartisan bill will help reduce online crime and keep people safe from online scammers. I’m grateful this legislation has passed the House with bipartisan support, and I will keep working to see it signed into law.”

    “These aren’t just creepy or shady tactics—they are life-ruining attacks that disproportionately target the elderly, as well as young men and women,” said Rep. Suozzi. “As a father, a former mayor and as a member of Congress, I’ll never stop fighting to protect people from exploitation—online or anywhere else.”

    Congressman Valadao spoke on the House Floor during debate on the legislation. Watch his remarks here or read as prepared below:

    Mr. Speaker,

    I rise to urge support for my bill, the Romance Scam Prevention Act. 

    Every year, millions of Americans from all ages and backgrounds use dating apps and websites to make connections. For many, online dating has made it easier to build relationships, but unfortunately there are countless stories of criminals using these sites for fraudulent activity.

    While it’s sadly common to see users lie about things like their age or occupation, romance scammers use fake profiles to develop connections and emotionally or financially exploit unsuspecting users.

    According to the Federal Trade Commission, Americans lost over $1.1 billion in 2023 alone, with senior citizens being the most at-risk age group.

    There have been countless stories of people being conned out of their entire life savings, all because they believed they had found love online.

    People who meet online often take their conversations to other communication platforms and might not know they are talking to someone who has been removed. 

    This bill requires dating platforms to issue fraud ban notifications to users who have interacted with an account who has been removed for fraudulent activity.

    As criminals are becoming more sophisticated when it comes to exploiting victims online, it’s time to put safeguards in place to protect users from financial fraud. 

    I want to thank Chairman Guthrie and his staff at the Committee on Energy & Commerce for their work on this important bill as well as my co-leads, Reps. Brittany Pettersen, Tom Suozzi, and Craig Goldman.

    Thank you, and I yield back.

    Background:

    Over 60 million Americans used an online dating service in 2023, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that romance scams resulted in victims losing over $1.1 billion. Criminals use false names and stories to lure individuals into conversation before manipulating them to give up sensitive information. When an online dating service provider becomes aware of a user committing fraudulent activity, like illegally obtaining money, the online dating service provider immediately deactivates the fraudulent user’s account. However, individuals who meet online often take their conversations to other communication platforms, so even when a fraudulent account is removed, an individual might not know they are still communicating with someone who was banned from the platform.

    Read the full bill here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Celebrates Elimination of the Developmental Disabilities Waitlist

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    .Powell@nebraska.gov”>Jeff.Powell@nebraska.gov

    Gov. Pillen Celebrates Elimination of the Developmental Disabilities Waitlist

    LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen joined leaders from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Vital Services, Inc., program participants and families in celebrating the elimination of the developmental disabilities (DD) waitlist and improving support for Nebraskans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

    The elimination of the waitlist is the result of an unprecedented investment of over $18 million, plus matching federal funds, to better enable the delivery of support services to children with disabilities and their families.

    “Eliminating the DD waitlist is a great accomplishment for the state of Nebraska,” said Gov.  Pillen. “Now, children and adults with IDD can access support at the time they need it. The new approach ensures a full continuum of care for individuals and their families, creating better opportunities and outcomes. Our kids are our future, and it is our responsibility to give each one the best future possible.”

    Historically, the DHHS Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) has maintained a waitlist for developmental disability waivers. In March of 2024, there were 2,706 individuals on the waitlist. At that time, Gov. Pillen joined representatives from DHHS in announcing that the state would eliminate the waitlist and establish a new approach to DDD services.

    During that 15-month process, more than 3,000 individuals were eliminated from the waitlist, including those who came on after March 2024. The new program provides the following:

    • Medicaid for DD eligible children that meet the required level of care

    • Additional access to family support and day services waivers that allow families to live together

    • Case management services for individuals who do not require waiver services

    • Employment services

    • Comprehensive DD waivers based on a nationally validated needs assessment adopted by DHHS with the support of stakeholders

    • New models of staffing including remote support and Legally Responsible Individuals (LRI) as paid providers for personal care

    • Expansion of independent providers

    “Today we celebrate with everyone who made the elimination of the DD Waitlist possible – Governor Pillen, leadership in the DD community, participants, family members, providers, our partners, front line staff, and many more,” said Tony Green, Director of DDD.   “As of this week, all individuals on the DD waitlist will have received an offer letter. Waivers, natural supports, and Medicaid assistance allow those individuals to remain in their communities, seek employment, and explore a future that meets the needs of each participant at each stage of life.”

    Today’s news conference was hosted by Vital Services, Inc., a local organization supporting individuals with IDD by offering residential support, supported employment, and day support in the Lincoln area. Prior to the announcement, Gov. Pillen, First Lady Suzanne, and Dir. Green received a tour of the facility and greeted program participants and staff.

    “Vital Services, Inc. teaches life skills to people with developmental disabilities and cares for each person’s unique needs with a variety of assistance programs. Our programs provide individuals with the tools to achieve independence, advocate for themselves, and integrate into their community. We are excited and grateful to celebrate with Governor Pillen the transformation in access to developmental disabilities services in Nebraskans,” said Joshua Bumgardner, Development Director of Vital Services, Inc.

    Andi Aschoff and her daughter, Kira Amos also spoke to the benefits they have experienced personally since DHHS changed its service delivery model. Kira currently receives a family support waiver, one of three waiver types, provided through the DDD program and she is a participant at Vital Services, Inc.

    “Having the support has changed our daily lives,” said Aschoff. “We do feel supported, and that really does make a big difference.”

    For more information on programs for individuals with IDD, or to apply for services, please visit the DDD website: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Developmental-Disabilities.aspx

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Sompo announces leadership changes for its Hong Kong Commercial P&C Insurance business

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sompo, a leading global provider of commercial and consumer property and casualty (re)insurance, today announced leadership changes to its Commercial P&C Insurance business in Hong Kong.

    Li Sheung Kin (S.K.) will retire from his role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sompo Insurance (Hong Kong) Co., Ltd. (“Sompo Hong Kong”). Mr Li has held several leadership roles during his 24-year career with Sompo Hong Kong. He was appointed CEO in 2016 and has been instrumental in strengthening Sompo’s Hong Kong business. Mr Li will remain with Sompo Hong Kong until the end of 2025 to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.

    Alasdair Walker will succeed Mr Li as CEO of Sompo Hong Kong, subject to appropriate local regulatory and immigration approvals. In his new role, Mr Walker will be responsible for driving Sompo Hong Kong’s profitability and capabilities as a key Commercial business hub in the Asia Pacific region. He will report into Kenneth Reilly, CEO, Insurance, Asia Pacific and Deputy CEO, Commercial Insurance, Sompo Japan.

    Mr Walker joined Sompo in 2023 from another major international carrier where he held positions in London, Johannesburg and Singapore, and was Regional Head of Distribution.

    Mr Reilly said: “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to S.K. for his years of dedication and significant contributions to Sompo. We wish him the very best in his future endeavors. I am also pleased to welcome Alasdair to the Hong Kong and Asia Pacific leadership teams. With 15 years of international insurance experience across three continents in both underwriting and distribution, Alasdair is perfectly placed to oversee and execute our strategic plans in this important region for our insurance business.”

    About Sompo

    We are Sompo, a global provider of commercial and consumer property, casualty, and specialty insurance and reinsurance. Building on the 135 years of innovation of our parent company, Sompo Holdings, Inc., Sompo employs approximately 9,500 people around the world who use their in-depth knowledge and expertise to help simplify and resolve your complex challenges. Because when you choose Sompo, you choose The Ease of Expertise™.

    “Sompo” refers to the brand under which Sompo International Holdings Ltd., a Bermuda-based holding company, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, operates its global property and casualty (re)insurance businesses. Sompo International Holdings Ltd. is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Sompo Holdings, Inc., one of the leading property and casualty groups in the world with excellent financial strength as evidenced by ratings of A+ (Superior) from A.M. Best (XV size category) and A+ (Strong) from Standard & Poor’s. Shares of Sompo Holdings, Inc. are listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

    To learn more please follow us on LinkedIn or visit sompo-asia.com.

    Sompo Contacts  

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/935ad383-0d31-4b1c-9bfb-6baf5c23d27d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sompo announces leadership changes for its Hong Kong Commercial P&C Insurance business

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sompo, a leading global provider of commercial and consumer property and casualty (re)insurance, today announced leadership changes to its Commercial P&C Insurance business in Hong Kong.

    Li Sheung Kin (S.K.) will retire from his role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sompo Insurance (Hong Kong) Co., Ltd. (“Sompo Hong Kong”). Mr Li has held several leadership roles during his 24-year career with Sompo Hong Kong. He was appointed CEO in 2016 and has been instrumental in strengthening Sompo’s Hong Kong business. Mr Li will remain with Sompo Hong Kong until the end of 2025 to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.

    Alasdair Walker will succeed Mr Li as CEO of Sompo Hong Kong, subject to appropriate local regulatory and immigration approvals. In his new role, Mr Walker will be responsible for driving Sompo Hong Kong’s profitability and capabilities as a key Commercial business hub in the Asia Pacific region. He will report into Kenneth Reilly, CEO, Insurance, Asia Pacific and Deputy CEO, Commercial Insurance, Sompo Japan.

    Mr Walker joined Sompo in 2023 from another major international carrier where he held positions in London, Johannesburg and Singapore, and was Regional Head of Distribution.

    Mr Reilly said: “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to S.K. for his years of dedication and significant contributions to Sompo. We wish him the very best in his future endeavors. I am also pleased to welcome Alasdair to the Hong Kong and Asia Pacific leadership teams. With 15 years of international insurance experience across three continents in both underwriting and distribution, Alasdair is perfectly placed to oversee and execute our strategic plans in this important region for our insurance business.”

    About Sompo

    We are Sompo, a global provider of commercial and consumer property, casualty, and specialty insurance and reinsurance. Building on the 135 years of innovation of our parent company, Sompo Holdings, Inc., Sompo employs approximately 9,500 people around the world who use their in-depth knowledge and expertise to help simplify and resolve your complex challenges. Because when you choose Sompo, you choose The Ease of Expertise™.

    “Sompo” refers to the brand under which Sompo International Holdings Ltd., a Bermuda-based holding company, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, operates its global property and casualty (re)insurance businesses. Sompo International Holdings Ltd. is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Sompo Holdings, Inc., one of the leading property and casualty groups in the world with excellent financial strength as evidenced by ratings of A+ (Superior) from A.M. Best (XV size category) and A+ (Strong) from Standard & Poor’s. Shares of Sompo Holdings, Inc. are listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

    To learn more please follow us on LinkedIn or visit sompo-asia.com.

    Sompo Contacts  

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/935ad383-0d31-4b1c-9bfb-6baf5c23d27d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Case Opposes Proposed Funding Bill That Cuts Food Assistance To Hawaii Residents

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ed Case (Hawai‘i – District 1)

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Congressman Ed Case (HI-01), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, tonight voted against the proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Related Agencies funding measure.  

    The measure would provide $25.5 billion, a $1 billion decrease from the current year, for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) agriculture and rural development programs, the Farm Credit Administration, Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the FDA.

    It is the third of twelve separate bills developed and approved by the Appropriations Committee that would fund the federal government at some $1.6 trillion for FY 2026 commencing October 1st of this year. 

    “While the measure funds many critical Hawai‘i priorities, I regrettably had to vote against it because it would cut food assistance for vulnerable families and make it even harder for Hawai‘i farmers to make ends meet,” said Case, who is in his seventh year on Appropriations and previously served on the House Committee on Agriculture.  

    “At a time when families around the country and our state are struggling with the high cost of living and rising food costs, and when Hawai‘i agriculture is struggling with high production costs and the consequences of the administration’s rash and chaotic tariff war, we should be maintaining our time-tested federal programs, not reducing or even eliminating them.” 

    The bill:  

    ·        Cuts $100 from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and fails to support the cash benefit for fruits and vegetables that ensures women, infants and children get the nutrients they need.  

    ·        Reduces staffing for the Farm Service Agency (FSA), which operates offices across the country that assist farmers in getting needed federal assistance. The bill provides $110 million less for FSA staffing than what was provided in FY 2025.  

    ·        Cuts funding for the Natural Resources Conservation Service Conservation Operations by 5 percent below FY 2025 funding levels.

    ·        Cuts rural housing and water and waste-water grants.

    In addition, the bill eliminates key programs for Hawai‘i, like the Reimbursement Transportation Cost Payment Program for Geographically Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers. This program helps our local farmers with the cost of getting their produce to the mainland markets. Additionally, the Micro-Grants for Food Security Program, which increases the quantity and quality of locally grown food through small-scale gardening, herding and livestock and apiary operations, was eliminated.  

    Case especially objected to large cuts in critical foreign food assistance programs, including $900 million for Food for Peace, almost 50% down to its lowest level since 2002, and $220 million for the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition program, $20 million below the FY 2025 level. 

    “Cutting our international food assistance programs is contrary to our values and harms our national security. Global food insecurity leads to political instability, making countries more vulnerable to conflict and extremism, and helping other countries and peoples with their food needs knits together alliances and partnerships which are critical to our national defense,” said Case, a member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.  

    Despite these and other significant problems with the bill, Case highlighted positive provisions he requested including important victories for Hawai‘i, including $216 million for the Specialty Crop Pests Program, which helps to protect our topical crops from invasive species. In addition, $15 million was included for Minor Crop Pest Management, which provides expert assistance for effective minor/specialty crop protection. The bill also provides research and education funds for Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-Serving institutions, in addition to funding for our land-grant universities like the University of Hawai‘i.  

    “Invasive species pose a significant ecological and economic threat to our Hawai‘i, with specially damaging impacts on local agriculture,” said Case.  

    “This agriculture funding bill provides support for our local farmers, farmers markets and food promotion programs, which combined will help our Hawai‘i deal with the soaring cost of food, much of which is imported to our islands,” said Case.  

      Provisions in the bill of interest to Hawai‘i that Case worked to secure include:  

    ·        $5 million for Education Grants for Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions. This program addresses the educational needs of food and agricultural sciences-related disciplines and prepares low-income students for careers related to food, agricultural and natural resources.  

    ·        $123 million for the USDA Wildlife Damage Management Program, which helps to prevent the spread of the Brown Tree Snake to Hawai‘i.  

    ·        $3 million for Agricultural Canine Detection and Surveillance of invasive species and diseases, an increase of $500,000.  

    ·        $1.1 billion for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, including $216 million for combating specialty crop pests.  

    ·        $36 million for Agriculture Quarantine Inspections to prevent infestations of pests and diseases.  

    ·        $15 million for the Minor Crop Pest Management Program to provide expert assistance to minor and specialty crop producers.  

    ·        $8 million for the Grassroots Source Water Protection Program that is designed to prevent water source pollution.  

    ·        $5 million for Aquaculture Centers and $2 million for aquaculture research programs.  

    ·        $1 million for Tropical and Subtropical Agricultural Research Grants for Insular Areas.  

       The measure also:  

    ·        Directs the Agricultural Research Service to continue research on tropical and subtropical crops, emphasizing the need to combat invasive pests.

    ·        Directs the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to report on existing protocols protecting Hawai‘i from invasive species and evaluate options for enhancing this protocol.  

      A summary of the agriculture funding bill is available here.  

      ###

     

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Host “Love is Love” Pride Celebration, Performance at Kennedy Center

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado

    Musical theater concert produced by acclaimed Broadway producer Jeffrey Seller, with music directed by Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley

    WASHINGTON – Tonight, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper, Tammy Baldwin, Elizabeth Warren, Jacky Rosen, and Brian Schatz hosted a Pride celebration and musical performance titled “Love is Love”, which was produced by acclaimed Broadway producer Jeffrey Seller, at the Kennedy Center’s Justice Forum.

    In the last years of the 20th century, and the early years of this century, gay marriage went from being vilified by some to being widely accepted. “Love is Love” is a celebration of the important role that Broadway, Hollywood, and other creative enterprises played in this dramatic transformation of the America we love. 

    The actors and other creative talent who created this show gave their time and creative energy to recognize and amplify this cultural transformation. The Kennedy Center, long an outpost and a beacon for equality in the arts, seemed the perfect venue. 

    The performance reminds us that our fight for equality – and for democracy – isn’t over. It’s happening right now, all around us.

    “In our darkest hours, we must continue to seek out the light,” said Hickenlooper. “Tonight, we honor the role that the freedom of expression and the theatrical arts play in continuing to expand LGBTQ rights in America.”

    “We have made incredible progress in our fight for true equality, but we cannot mistake progress for victory and we still have some big hills to climb. Look no further than the Trump Administration’s shameful attacks on the LGBTQ community and our right to live a life with dignity, respect, and free from discrimination. While this administration won’t say it, we will: To all LGBTQ members of our community, we see you, we respect you, and we are proud to celebrate you,” said Baldwin.

    “As the Trump administration keeps up its hateful attacks on LGBTQ+ Americans, we’re meeting their bigotry with resilience and joy. Tonight, we’re celebrating that joy at the Kennedy Center with artists and stage workers for a special performance. I’ll never stop fighting to make sure every single person is free to live exactly who they are,” said Warren.

    “The Trump Administration’s cruel and harmful attacks against the LGBTQ community are having dire consequences,” said Rosen. “Trump is not only actively targeting LGBTQ Americans with discriminatory policies, he’s seeking to erase LGBTQ history and culture. That’s why it’s more important than ever before to stand up and proudly celebrate the LGBTQ community.”

    “Every attack on LGBTQ+ rights by the Trump administration is an attack on human rights, on freedom, and on every American’s right to equal protection under the law. We have come too far to go backward. Now is the time to stand up and fight back in every way we can – in the courts, at the ballot box, in peaceful protests, and with the arts,” said Schatz.

    For a full list of the cast and crew, click HERE.

    Photos from the event can be found HERE and attributable to the Office of U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Concludes Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 16, 2025

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    SUVA, Fiji – Pacific Partnership 2025 officially concluded its mission stop in Fiji with a closing ceremony hosted at the Waiqanake District School on June 16, 2025.

    The largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster response preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific, Pacific Partnership enables participants, including United States and Fijian personnel, to work together to enhance disaster response capabilities and foster new and enduring friendships.

    “The United States of America believes in a free and open Pacific for all nations,” said U.S. Navy Capt. Mark B. Stefanik, mission commander during the closing ceremony. “We deeply value our long history with Fiji and we hope that the work done here helps to reinforce our commitment to this island and to the people of Fiji.”

    While in Fiji, the medical team, consisting of U.S. and Fijian public health services personnel, conducted a total of 16 side-by-side subject matter expert exchanges in the fields of hemoculture, permaculture, agriculture, and apiculture. The team accrued more than 26 hours of hands-on training through public health engagements such as the Polymerase Chain Reaction laboratory, spay and neuter clinics, ruminant husbandry training, and a beekeeping tour assembling over 42 participants from across Suva.

    The Pacific Partnership engineering team also capitalized on the opportunity to provide focused support to address several local infrastructure concerns. A total of 12 U.S. Navy Sailors, assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion 1, and 8 New Zealand Royal Army Engineers collaborated to undertake the construction and repairs of the Waiqanake District School, to include the complete renovation and installation of a small library in a classroom building. The team also removed obsolete rain gutters from three different classroom buildings and rendered a fresh coat of paint to two classroom buildings. Waiqanake District School, which accommodates over 300 staff, faculty and students, hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony in celebration for the newly renovated facilities on June 16.

    U.S. Navy Musicians with the Pacific Fleet “Big Wave” Brass Band engaged in a variety of live performances across more than 10 school campuses and venues across the island of Viti Levu, Fiji. This musical ensemble featured 10 musicians, which hosted concerts between Suva and Nadi, including the closing ceremony of Pacific Partnership 2025’s mission stop in Fiji.

    Now in its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific.

    Date Taken: 06.16.2025
    Date Posted: 06.19.2025 21:08
    Story ID: 501094
    Location: SUVA, FJ
    Web Views: 54
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

    This work, Pacific Partnership 2025 Concludes Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 16, 2025, by PO2 Moises Sandoval, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pacific Partnership 2025 Concludes Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 16, 2025

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    SUVA, Fiji – Pacific Partnership 2025 officially concluded its mission stop in Fiji with a closing ceremony hosted at the Waiqanake District School on June 16, 2025.

    The largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster response preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific, Pacific Partnership enables participants, including United States and Fijian personnel, to work together to enhance disaster response capabilities and foster new and enduring friendships.

    “The United States of America believes in a free and open Pacific for all nations,” said U.S. Navy Capt. Mark B. Stefanik, mission commander during the closing ceremony. “We deeply value our long history with Fiji and we hope that the work done here helps to reinforce our commitment to this island and to the people of Fiji.”

    While in Fiji, the medical team, consisting of U.S. and Fijian public health services personnel, conducted a total of 16 side-by-side subject matter expert exchanges in the fields of hemoculture, permaculture, agriculture, and apiculture. The team accrued more than 26 hours of hands-on training through public health engagements such as the Polymerase Chain Reaction laboratory, spay and neuter clinics, ruminant husbandry training, and a beekeeping tour assembling over 42 participants from across Suva.

    The Pacific Partnership engineering team also capitalized on the opportunity to provide focused support to address several local infrastructure concerns. A total of 12 U.S. Navy Sailors, assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion 1, and 8 New Zealand Royal Army Engineers collaborated to undertake the construction and repairs of the Waiqanake District School, to include the complete renovation and installation of a small library in a classroom building. The team also removed obsolete rain gutters from three different classroom buildings and rendered a fresh coat of paint to two classroom buildings. Waiqanake District School, which accommodates over 300 staff, faculty and students, hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony in celebration for the newly renovated facilities on June 16.

    U.S. Navy Musicians with the Pacific Fleet “Big Wave” Brass Band engaged in a variety of live performances across more than 10 school campuses and venues across the island of Viti Levu, Fiji. This musical ensemble featured 10 musicians, which hosted concerts between Suva and Nadi, including the closing ceremony of Pacific Partnership 2025’s mission stop in Fiji.

    Now in its 21st iteration, Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific.

    Date Taken: 06.16.2025
    Date Posted: 06.19.2025 21:08
    Story ID: 501094
    Location: SUVA, FJ
    Web Views: 54
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

    This work, Pacific Partnership 2025 Concludes Mission Stop in Suva, Fiji, June 16, 2025, by PO2 Moises Sandoval, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: Iran denies ceasefire proposal as Trump announces end to ’12-Day War’

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

    Confusion and skepticism surrounded a surprise ceasefire announcement Monday, as a senior Iranian official told CNN that Tehran had not received any formal proposal from the United States and saw no reason to halt hostilities with Israel or Washington.

    “At this very moment, the enemy is committing aggression against Iran, and Iran is on the verge of intensifying its retaliatory strikes, with no ear to listen to the lies of its enemies,” the official was quoted as saying. He added that remarks from U.S. and Israeli leaders would be seen as a “deception” intended to justify further attacks on Iran.

    The conflicting narratives raised questions about the implementation and durability of any potential ceasefire. As of Monday night, neither Israeli nor Iranian officials had publicly confirmed any agreement. The White House and the Pentagon had also not issued formal statements, and it remained unclear whether the reported deal had been communicated through diplomatic channels, or whether either side intended to follow the terms.

    U.S. President Donald Trump announced Monday evening that Israel and Iran have reached a formal agreement to implement a complete and total ceasefire, marking what he called the end of the “12-Day War.”

    In a post on his Truth Social platform Monday, Trump congratulated both nations and revealed that the ceasefire will begin in approximately six hours, following the completion of each side’s ongoing military operations. The ceasefire will initially last 12 hours, during which the opposing side will maintain a posture of “peace and respect.”

    According to Trump, Iran will initiate the ceasefire, followed by Israel 12 hours later, culminating in an official declaration of the war’s end at the 24-hour mark.

    “On the assumption that everything works as it should, which it will,” Trump wrote, “I would like to congratulate both countries… on having the stamina, courage, and intelligence to end what should be called ‘THE 12 DAY WAR.’”

    Calling the agreement a breakthrough that “could have saved the Middle East from years of destruction,” Trump ended his announcement with a sweeping message of unity: “God bless Israel, God bless Iran, God bless the Middle East, God bless the United States of America, and GOD BLESS THE WORLD!”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Leads Senators in Demanding Answers on Trump Administration’s Cuts to Veteran Education Benefits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) led Senate colleagues in a letter to the Trump Administration expressing deep concern over the administration’s recent budget and staffing cuts at the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Education, and demanding answers on how these cuts will negatively impact critical education benefits for veterans and programs that support veterans as they transition to civilian life, pursue higher education, or reenter the workforce. Rosen was joined by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Angus King (I-ME), Richard Durbin (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Andy Kim (D-NJ), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tina Smith (D-MN), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mark Warner (D-VA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Tim Kaine (D-VA). 
    “With nearly 16 million veterans across our nation who have selflessly served and sacrificed in defense of our country, it is imperative that these cuts do not undermine essential programs that support veterans transitioning to civilian life and building successful careers,” wrote the Senators. “Education programs such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Yellow Ribbon Program, and Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) have empowered countless veterans to pursue higher education, gain critical skills, and become integral contributors to our economy and society. Laws and regulations enforced by the Department of Education, such as the 90/10 rule and borrower defense to repayment, have also historically prevented veterans from being taken advantage of by predatory programs. Weakening or eliminating any of these programs or protections would not only harm veterans but also jeopardize our national workforce readiness and long-term economic resilience.”
    “As a country, we carry a moral and strategic responsibility to ensure our veterans are equipped for success after service. Safeguarding the educational benefits veterans rely upon is not only a commitment to our promises, but also an investment in our nation’s future and vital for military recruitment,” the Senators’ letter continued. “We respectfully request a detailed explanation of the impacts these budget and staffing cuts and planned changes to federal oversight and accreditation policy will have on veterans’ access to, and success in, higher education, vocational training, and associated support services nationwide.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been a steadfast advocate for veterans in Nevada and nationwide. In January 2025, she co-sponsored the bipartisan Commitment to Veteran Support and Outreach Act, now law, which authorized funds to County Veterans Service Officers and local efforts to connect veterans with benefits related to education, housing, disability, and other services. In February 2025, she helped introduce the Purple Heart Veterans Education Act, closing a loophole so that every Purple Heart recipient can transfer their GI Bill benefits to their dependents. In 2024, Rosen led the bipartisan Education Flexibility for Veteran Parents Act, allowing veteran parents to receive full GI Bill housing stipends regardless of whether the program is in-person or online. Her bipartisan bill to require the VA to maintain a permanent helpline for veterans to use for information on VA services was signed into law last year as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025. These efforts underscore her unwavering commitment to ensuring veterans and their families receive the education benefits they’ve earned through service.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Leads Senators in Demanding Answers on Trump Administration’s Cuts to Veteran Education Benefits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) led Senate colleagues in a letter to the Trump Administration expressing deep concern over the administration’s recent budget and staffing cuts at the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Education, and demanding answers on how these cuts will negatively impact critical education benefits for veterans and programs that support veterans as they transition to civilian life, pursue higher education, or reenter the workforce. Rosen was joined by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Angus King (I-ME), Richard Durbin (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Andy Kim (D-NJ), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tina Smith (D-MN), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Mark Warner (D-VA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Tim Kaine (D-VA). 
    “With nearly 16 million veterans across our nation who have selflessly served and sacrificed in defense of our country, it is imperative that these cuts do not undermine essential programs that support veterans transitioning to civilian life and building successful careers,” wrote the Senators. “Education programs such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Yellow Ribbon Program, and Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) have empowered countless veterans to pursue higher education, gain critical skills, and become integral contributors to our economy and society. Laws and regulations enforced by the Department of Education, such as the 90/10 rule and borrower defense to repayment, have also historically prevented veterans from being taken advantage of by predatory programs. Weakening or eliminating any of these programs or protections would not only harm veterans but also jeopardize our national workforce readiness and long-term economic resilience.”
    “As a country, we carry a moral and strategic responsibility to ensure our veterans are equipped for success after service. Safeguarding the educational benefits veterans rely upon is not only a commitment to our promises, but also an investment in our nation’s future and vital for military recruitment,” the Senators’ letter continued. “We respectfully request a detailed explanation of the impacts these budget and staffing cuts and planned changes to federal oversight and accreditation policy will have on veterans’ access to, and success in, higher education, vocational training, and associated support services nationwide.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been a steadfast advocate for veterans in Nevada and nationwide. In January 2025, she co-sponsored the bipartisan Commitment to Veteran Support and Outreach Act, now law, which authorized funds to County Veterans Service Officers and local efforts to connect veterans with benefits related to education, housing, disability, and other services. In February 2025, she helped introduce the Purple Heart Veterans Education Act, closing a loophole so that every Purple Heart recipient can transfer their GI Bill benefits to their dependents. In 2024, Rosen led the bipartisan Education Flexibility for Veteran Parents Act, allowing veteran parents to receive full GI Bill housing stipends regardless of whether the program is in-person or online. Her bipartisan bill to require the VA to maintain a permanent helpline for veterans to use for information on VA services was signed into law last year as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025. These efforts underscore her unwavering commitment to ensuring veterans and their families receive the education benefits they’ve earned through service.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Warner, Colleagues Introduce Intelligence Community Workforce Agility Protection Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353June 23, 2025
    Cotton, Warner, Colleagues Introduce Intelligence Community Workforce Agility Protection Act 
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and Senator Mark R. Warner (D-Virginia), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, today introduced the Intelligence Community Workforce Agility Protection Act, legislation that would provide equitable tax treatment for civilians workers in the intelligence community who are subject to permanent change of station orders, similar to those in the military.
    Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colorado), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-New York), Mark Kelly (D-Arizona), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), and Todd Young (R-Indiana) are cosponsoring the legislation.
    “Just as in the military, permanent change of station orders can be a time of upheaval for the men, women, and families of the intelligence community. This bill will reinstate some of the eased burdens on moving costs and help keep our intelligence community workers focused on the mission at hand of keeping our country safe,” said Senator Cotton.
    “Like the men and women of our armed forces, our intelligence community professionals go to extraordinary lengths to serve and protect their country,” Senator Warner said. “They often uproot their lives to go serve where they are needed – no matter where that may be. This commonsense legislation will ensure that these brave Americans are not forced to pay out of pocket for the costs of their relocations.”
    Text of the Intelligence Community Workforce Agility Protection Act may be found here.
    The Intelligence Community Workforce Agility Protection Act would:
    Provide equitable tax treatment for IC civilians who are subject to permanent change of station orders, similar to those in the military. 
    Preserve for IC employees and appointees certain moving expense deductions and moving expense reimbursements.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy: 8 Things You Should Know About Iran

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    June 23, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Monday wrote a Substack post outlining eight ideas that should inform how the American public thinks about the Trump administration’s strikes against Iran and President Trump’s refusal to learn the lessons of America’s previous military misadventures in the Middle East.
    “America’s addiction to military intervention in the Middle East is a stubborn habit to break for our nation, and it’s heartbreaking,” Murphy wrote. “It’s heartbreaking mostly because we have continuous evidence that believing we can change minds or political realities in this complicated region by brute military force is folly.”
    Murphy explained the American people are not the ones pushing for endless conflict:  “But, we keep going to war, despite the evidence telling us “hell no,” because of a powerful but wrongheaded group of warmongers and cheerleaders in Washington: hawkish politicians; profit-obsessed weapons sellers; and capable but naively optimistic military planners.
    He laid out various potentially dangerous consequences of Trump’s decision to strike Iran: “The worst consequence, of course, is a full-blown war in the region that draws in the United States…If Iran kills American troops, the conflict could spiral and America would be back at war in the Middle East…Another potentially dangerous consequence would be the fall of the regime in Tehran. The Supreme Leader is a murderous tyrant who wants Israel wiped off the map and has killed hundreds of U.S. troops in Iraq. Even if he were pushed out internally, he could be replaced by someone even more hardline and bent on revenge, willing to order terrorist attacks all over the globe. A third scenario, a civil war in which Iran descends into chaos, could be even worse for the United States and the region…”
    Murphy argued diplomacy, not military intervention, is the best way to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon: “You cannot bomb knowledge out of existence. Iran knows how to make a nuclear bomb…And bombing their facilities just destroys their equipment; it does not eliminate their knowledge… If Iran makes the decision to build a weapon, and they have a country like Russia helping them, they could easily get a weapon in a dangerously short amount of time…If America hadn’t already successfully negotiated and implemented an agreement with Iran to stop them from obtaining a nuclear weapon, maybe the military option would look more reasonable. Yes, we don’t want Iran to have a nuclear weapon, but from 2014-2107, Iran’s advanced nuclear research program was dismantled, and we had inspectors crawling all over the country ensuring their compliance. Trump’s national security advisors urged him to stay in the deal – it was working! – but he disastrously withdrew.”
    Murphy concluded: “This is a moment where Congress needs to step in. This week, we are likely to take a vote that makes it crystal clear President Trump does not have the authorization for these strikes or a broader war with Iran. This is also a moment for the American people to stand up and say we do not want another war in the Middle East. In the last twenty years, we have seen the untold damage done – the lives lost, the billions of dollars wasted, and our reputation squandered – and we won’t allow Trump to take us down that path again.”
    Murphy released a statement Saturday night following the strikes.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Entire Senate Democratic Caucus Urge Leader Thune to Change Course on Proposed Cuts to Health Care and Food Assistance

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy
     
    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy, a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, joined every member of the Senate Democratic Caucus in calling on Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) to change course on Republicans’ plan to take health care and food assistance away from millions of Americans—including seniors, children, people with disabilities, and veterans—to pay for tax breaks for the wealthiest.
    “If enacted, these cuts to food assistance and health care will mean widespread hardship for Americans, including seniors, children, people with disabilities, and veterans; irreversibly weaken state and local governments; and pull the rug out from under rural hospitals, nursing homes, community health centers, farmers, independent grocers, food banks, and so many others,” wrote the senators.
    “Just because the House has acted in this regard does not mean the U.S. Senate must make the same mistakes,” continued the senators. “Congress should be enacting policies that lower costs and make it easier for American families to thrive rather than raising the costs of food, health care, and other vital services.” 
    U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) also signed the letter.
    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below.
    Dear Senator Thune:
    At a time when American families are struggling with the high prices of food, health care, housing, and other essentials, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed a bill that will raise costs even more by terminating health insurance for millions of Americans and taking food assistance from millions — all to provide tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans and corporations.  
    If enacted, these cuts to food assistance and health care will mean widespread hardship for Americans, including seniors, children, people with disabilities, and veterans; irreversibly weaken state and local governments; and pull the rug out from under rural hospitals, nursing homes, community health centers, farmers, independent grocers, food banks, and so many others. Just because the House has acted in this regard does not mean the U.S. Senate must make the same mistakes. Congress should be enacting policies that lower costs and make it easier for American families to thrive rather than raising the costs of food, health care, and other vital services. 
    Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) guarantee access to affordable health care for millions of working and middle-class families across the country.  More than 80 million people are enrolled in Medicaid, while more than 24 million buy their own health insurance through the ACA Marketplaces. The nation’s uninsured rate has dropped to historic lows because of the health coverage and security afforded by these essential programs. The House-passed Republican reconciliation bill includes over $1 trillion in health care cuts, decimating Medicaid and dismantling the ACA. 
    The non-partisan, independent Congressional Budget Office (CBO) finds the entirety of Republicans’ health care cuts will terminate health care coverage for 16 million people. These coverage losses are not without consequence. New analyses find more than 51,000 Americans will die as a result of the bill’s Medicaid cuts, which will also lead to the loss of 850,000 jobs. The Republican bill will increase costs for everyone and damage local economies; raise premiums and health care costs across markets; shutter rural hospitals and nursing homes; worsen unemployment from resulting job loss; and slam state budgets with new, unaffordable costs. 
    The House-passed bill includes the largest health care cuts in history. Its Medicaid policies will ensnare millions in red tape, making it impossible for them to enroll in coverage; increase premiums and cost-sharing for low-income seniors and families; and slash Medicaid payments to hospitals, community health centers, nursing homes, and other health care providers; among other draconian, harmful cuts. 
    The Republican bill’s underhanded cuts to the ACA will dismantle and destabilize the Marketplaces. A thicket of new red tape requirements will make it nearly impossible for working and middle-class Americans to access tax credits that make their premiums affordable and enroll in coverage through the Marketplaces. Republican cuts will more than double ACA premiums for tens of millions of Americans, putting coverage out of reach for small businesses, gig workers, family caregivers, and millions of others who buy their own health insurance through the Marketplaces. 
    The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the cornerstone of America’s anti-hunger efforts, helping to put food on the table for 42 million Americans, including nearly 16 million children, 8 million seniors, 4 million people with disabilities, and 1.2 million veterans. The effectiveness of SNAP has been shown time and again. SNAP reduces food insecurity and poverty; lowers health care costs; supports farmers, grocers and local economies; provides a long-term return on investment in our children and their future; and acts as an automatic economic stabilizer during times of weak economic conditions. 
    The House-passed reconciliation bill proposes nearly $300 billion in cuts to SNAP — the deepest cuts to food assistance in history. If enacted into law, CBO estimates that over 3 million Americans – including seniors, kids 7 or older, and families living in areas with a weak economy – will lose their food assistance entirely because of stricter eligibility requirements and red tape. Another 1.3 million Americans will lose SNAP entirely or have their benefits cut as a result of the provision requiring states to pay for a significant portion of SNAP — forcing states to choose between helping their residents afford groceries and funding education, public safety, investment in workforce and education, and other critical priorities. 
    Other provisions in the bill will reduce future benefits for tens of millions of additional Americans. In addition, hundreds of thousands of children will lose free and reduced-price school meals through the National School Lunch Program. In total, tens of millions of Americans will see their grocery costs increase, and many will go hungry as a result.
    Just because the House has rushed to pass damaging policies that will raise costs and result in millions losing access to health care or food does not mean that it is too late for the Senate to change course. We urge you to set aside the House bill and instead work with us to lower costs and ensure all Americans can access the health care and food they need to survive.

    MIL OSI USA News –