NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s innovative solutions propel global shifts toward smarter, greener industries

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

    A staff member sets parameters before welding at Guangdong Lyric Robot Automation Co., Ltd. in Huizhou, south China’s Guangdong Province, June 27, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    As global industries accelerate their transition toward intelligence and sustainability, China’s innovative solutions form vital components of international supply chains, driving cross-sector transformation.

    Smarter factories 

    At Guangdong Lyric Robot Automation’s Huizhou facility in south China, an automated warehouse operates efficiently with only two staff members. Materials glide autonomously through storage systems, arriving precisely at workstations as needed. A central control screen displays real-time inventory levels, material usage frequency, and shelf capacity.

    “This system cuts operational costs by over 30 percent while boosting productivity by 40 percent,” said Duan Yajie, general manager of Lyric subsidiary Shunchu Intelligence. Overseas orders for such integrated solutions now constitute over 40 percent of the subsidiary’s total business.

    Lyric’s intelligent factories serve industry leaders across six countries. From battery plants in North America to a comprehensive automotive logistics center in Hungary, as well as sectors like renewable energy and AI computing, Lyric has supported clients in establishing digital factories using technologies such as intelligent sensing, precision control and execution systems.

    With subsidiaries in 14 countries, including the United Kingdom, Poland, France, Switzerland, Germany, Canada, and the United States, Lyric has navigated cross-cultural challenges through co-developed standards. “Building consensus during the design phase helps prevent conflicts during implementation,” Lyric’s co-founder Lu Jiahong said.

    “Once rare on European streets, electric vehicles are now increasingly common, reflecting the combined efforts of Chinese equipment, battery and auto manufacturers,” she added.

    Powering energy revolution 

    EVE Energy Co., Ltd., a leading Chinese lithium battery company headquartered in Huizhou, Guangdong Province, is advancing its global manufacturing strategy with a new battery production base in Hungary’s Debrecen.

    The facility represents a transformative industrial upgrade for the region, introducing advanced manufacturing systems where agricultural production once dominated the local economy.

    “We’re bringing advanced industrial production to this region, creating employment while accelerating the energy transition,” stated EVE vice president Jiang Min. He added that the Debrecen base is scheduled to begin production in late 2026, while their overseas facility in Malaysia is already operational.

    Ranked fourth globally in cylindrical battery shipments and second in energy storage capacity for 2024, EVE Energy operates 12 production bases across Asia, Europe and North America. Its power batteries supply premier global automakers including Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Jaguar Land Rover.

    According to Jiang, the company continues to expand investments in carbon-reduction technologies. It has recently established a comprehensive resource recovery ecosystem with over 10 partners. “Collaborative expansion across the industrial chain creates mutual benefits,” Jiang said.

    A staff member operates a robot to perform synchronous action at a provincial embodied artificial intelligence robot innovation center in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province, June 25, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Vision for intelligent machines 

    At Orbbec’s Shenzhen exhibition hall, a food-delivery robot navigates through display areas, skillfully avoiding obstacles.

    This agility comes from its 3D vision sensors, powered by the proprietary “MX6600” chip, which measures about 9 square millimeters. This chip processes depth-sensing data to enable high-precision spatial mapping.

    Currently, 7 out of 10 service robots in China use Orbbec sensors, while international clients grew by 77 percent year on year to 1,469 in 2024, including major companies like Nvidia and Microsoft.

    “We concentrate on foundational technologies,” said Huang Yuanhao, founder of Orbbec. “We are one of the few companies worldwide to cover all major 3D vision perception technology approaches, serving global robotics enterprises across various sectors, such as smart factories, warehouse logistics, construction automation, and intelligent inspection,” he added.

    Orbbec also offers rapid technical support to better serve its global users. “Some of our products have demanding technical service requirements, and excellent service is a major factor why overseas users choose us,” said Orbbec’s CFO Chen Bin.

    China’s global engagement is transitioning from manufacturing exports to integrated technological empowerment, said Yang Boru, professor at the School of Electronics and Information Technology, Sun Yat-sen University in Guangdong. As these innovative solutions expand worldwide, they have become key drivers of intelligent and sustainable industrialization, he added.  

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China-Vietnam freight train cargo volume sees sharp growth in H1

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

    Aerial photo taken on Aug. 23, 2022 shows a China-Vietnam freight train pulling out of Xi’an international port in Xi’an, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    In the first half (H1) of 2025, freight trains departing from south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region heading to Vietnam, transported a total of 18,870 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) of export goods, marking a year-on-year surge of 283 percent, according to the China Railway Nanning Group.

    Staff with the Nanning Railway Logistics Center of China Railway Nanning Group said that during this period, outbound shipments of auto parts and fiberboard carried by these China-Vietnam freight trains from Guangxi had reached 2,528 TEUs and 4,580 TEUs, respectively, representing respective year-on-year growth of 100 percent and 398 percent.

    Notably, auto parts and motorcycle parts from provinces such as Jiangsu in east China and Guangdong in south China, are transported by rail to Nanning International Railway Port before being shipped to Vietnam via China-Vietnam freight trains, thereby forming a new growth point for transport.

    This year, the frequency of scheduled China-Vietnam freight trains has increased from five trips per week to 14, providing more transport options for China’s goods exports. Currently, the fastest end-to-end transit time for China-Vietnam trains from Nanning, capital of Guangxi, to Yen Vien in Vietnam is only 14 hours.

    To date, China-Vietnam trains departing from Guangxi have transported over 380 varieties of export goods. Cargo sources span 25 Chinese provincial regions — including Jiangsu, Guangdong and north China’s Hebei.

    The cross-border freight transport network now covers multiple ASEAN countries, such as Vietnam, Laos and Thailand, creating a “fast track” for promoting economic and trade exchanges between China and ASEAN. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have you seen Tamiya?

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Waitematā Police are appealing for information about the whereabouts of a North Shore teenager who has been reported missing.

    Tamiya, 15, was last seen in the Torbay area around 1pm on 7 July.

    Police and her family members have concerns for her safety.

    Tamiya is described as of a thin build and generally wears baggy jeans and hoodies, with a cap and sneakers.

    Police are asking anyone with information that can assist in our enquiries to please get in touch online at 105.police.govt.nz or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 250709/7653.

    You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Nicole Bremner/NZ Police 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: American Politicians Try to Shift Their Employment Problems to China — Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Moscow, July 10 /Xinhua/ — The rhetoric of American politicians about “China depriving Americans of manufacturing jobs” is essentially an attempt to attribute the internal structural economic problems of the United States to other countries, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui said in an opinion piece published in the Russian newspaper Argumenty i Fakty on Thursday.

    As Zhang Hanhui noted in an article titled “Who ‘stole’ American manufacturing jobs?”, in recent years, American politicians have often promoted the thesis of “China taking away American manufacturing jobs.” From US President Donald Trump’s statement that “China has taken more jobs from the United States than any other country” to US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s unfounded claim of a “China shock,” the US leadership has continued to try to shift responsibility for its own problems to other countries.

    According to the Chinese ambassador, the decline in employment in manufacturing is a global trend in developed economies. “Research by the Groningen Growth and Development Center (GGDC) in the Netherlands shows that employment in manufacturing typically follows an inverted U-shaped trajectory: during the industrialization stage, labor moves from agriculture to industry, but as socio-economic development progresses, consumer spending shifts from finished goods to services, and the labor force accordingly moves from industry to services,” the article notes.

    The United States has long since transitioned to a service-based economy, with manufacturing providing only 10 percent of all jobs in the country. Some experts point out that the process of gradual reduction in manufacturing in developed countries began even before China joined the World Trade Organization (WTO). From 1977 to 2001, manufacturing employment in the United States fell by 41 percent, while in 10 other developed countries, including Japan, Great Britain, France, and Canada, it fell by 20 to 50 percent.

    As Zhang Hanhui pointed out, the main reason for the decline in industrial employment is the technological revolution. For example, some experts point out that from 2001 to 2023, US manufacturing employment fell by 22 percent, while output grew by 50 percent, which convincingly proves how automation and technological progress are replacing a significant part of the workforce. The Chinese diplomat also cites research from the US Brookings Institution, according to which it took 25 jobs to create $1 million in manufacturing in 1980, while today it only takes 6.5.

    The ambassador is confident that the US’s own problems have accelerated the erosion of its industrial potential. First, the negative gap in labor costs in the United States is virtually insurmountable. For example, the hourly wage of a garment worker in the US is about $22, which is many times higher than $2.8 in Bangladesh, while the productivity of an American worker is only about 60 percent of that of a Bangladeshi worker.

    The diplomat also points out the aging US infrastructure, which seriously limits the competitiveness of American industry. Much of the US electrical grid was built in the 1960s and 1970s and has reached or is approaching the end of its useful life; a third of the country’s bridges require major repairs or reconstruction.

    In addition, the unilateral imposition of tariffs on many imported goods has hit American industry hard. The long-term shift of the American economy toward the financial sector has led to a shortage of skilled labor in the labor market, Zhang Hanhui noted.

    “China calls on the United States to immediately stop the erroneous practice of ‘slinging mud at China’, to return to the mainstream of multilateral cooperation and, together with the Chinese side, on an equal basis, to find ways of mutually beneficial cooperation,” the head of the Chinese diplomatic mission in Russia emphasized.

    In a changing world, China and Russia, with their comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination in the new era, will jointly advance bilateral cooperation along the designated path, uphold the multilateral trading system led by the WTO, and promote the safe, stable and smooth operation of global industrial and supply chains through in-depth cooperation, he said.

    “We will consistently promote an equitable and orderly multipolar world and inclusive economic globalization to inject strong impetus and new hope into global development,” Zhang Hanhui concluded. –0–

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese initiatives to form a multipolar world order are based on a deep understanding of the current situation in the world – Russian expert

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Moscow, July 10 /Xinhua/ — China’s latest initiatives to form a multipolar world order, in particular the concept of a community of shared destiny for mankind and the Global Civilization Initiative, are based on a deep understanding of the current situation in the world, says Russian sinologist and associate professor at the Institute of Asian and African Countries at Lomonosov Moscow State University Maria Semenyuk.

    In 2023, the Chinese side put forward the Global Civilization Initiative. “China’s latest initiatives aimed at forming a new, multipolar world order, including the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind and the Global Civilization Initiative, are based on a deep understanding of the current international situation and meet the aspirations of not only the Chinese people, but also the peoples of many other countries,” M. Semenyuk said in an interview with Xinhua, adding that it is no coincidence that they have found a lively response not only in Russia, but also in many countries of the Global South.

    According to the Russian expert, the significance of such concepts and initiatives lies in China’s constant and tireless efforts aimed at forming a new vector of development for countries and civilizations: without abandoning previous experience and its cultural essence in favor of renewal or assimilation, to carry out modernization based on historical experience and preserving cultural identity.

    As the sinologist noted, exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations are a necessary condition for global mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence, and the key to this is “closeness of hearts,” that is, humanitarian cooperation.

    “I have been translating Chinese literature for over 15 years, as well as book and cultural projects in this area. I am pleased to see how more and more Chinese books of various genres are appearing on the shelves of our stores and that for our readers such books are no longer “exotic”, but something relevant and interesting,” M. Semenyuk emphasized, reporting that a decision has already been made to launch a number of new projects in the area of mutual translation, publishing and cultural exchanges between Russia and China. “We have already begun working on new lists of books for translation,” she added.

    From July 10 to 11, the ministerial meeting of the Global Dialogue among Civilizations is taking place in Beijing. According to M. Semenyuk, this event will become a landmark in the current global situation.

    “It will be a clear signal that the world’s civilizations are truly united by a common desire for peace, development, equality, justice, democracy and freedom, and that instead of ideological confrontation, it is necessary to carry out concrete work on rapprochement, mutual exchange and the creation of a global network of dialogue in order to successfully confront the challenges of the new era,” the sinologist noted.

    According to her, the current international situation is characterized by instability and contradictions. “In conditions when dangerous judgments about the so-called “civilizational superiority” are again gaining supporters, the principles of the Global Civilization Initiative – to promote dialogue among civilizations while respecting and protecting the diversity of world civilizations – and the principles of inclusiveness, mutual learning and harmonious coexistence of civilizations are especially relevant,” M. Semenyuk emphasized. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Georgian capital to upgrade metro with Chinese carriages

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Tbilisi, July 10 (Xinhua) — Authorities in Georgia’s capital Tbilisi have announced the start of a large-scale modernization of the city’s subway system using cars manufactured by China’s CRRC Corporation, Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze said at a city government meeting on Thursday.

    As the mayor noted, the winner of the completed tender was GT Group LLC, which, in cooperation with a Chinese manufacturer, will supply 111 modern metro cars to Georgia.

    The purchase is being carried out with financial support from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Over the next five years, Tbilisi will receive 14 four-car and 5 five-car trains. The new trains will be equipped with walk-through carriages, which will significantly increase the convenience and safety of passengers. The total cost of the project is 150 million euros.

    According to K. Kaladze, the transition to five-car trains on the Akhmeteli-Varketili line, one of the busiest in the city, will increase the volume of transportation and improve the quality of service.

    Today, the Tbilisi metro has 48 trains /192 carriages/. The process of purchasing carriages will continue in the future with the aim of completely replacing the current trains. –0–

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road closed, SH3, Mapara

    Source: New Zealand Police

    State Highway 3, north of Pukenui Road, Mapara, is closed following a serious crash.

    At around 11:30am emergency services received reports of a two-vehicle crash.

    The road is closed, and motorists should avoid the area and expect significant delays.

    Initial indications suggest there are serious injuries.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Guidance boosts safety with transport trailers

    Source: Worksafe New Zealand

    New guidance is plugging a critical gap for businesses which use transport trailers to shift heavy machinery, thanks to an agreement overseen by WorkSafe New Zealand.

    It follows a 2019 death of Sean Smyth, who was killed when a trailer ramp fell on him at work in Te Kuiti. WorkSafe’s investigation culminated in an Enforceable Undertaking (EU), where Mr Smyth’s employer Inframax Construction committed funds to a range of mandatory health and safety improvements. One of these was sponsoring Construction Health and Safety New Zealand (CHASNZ) to develop new guidance for the safe use and maintenance of low loader ramps.

    The guide helps owners, operators, maintainers, and designers of these trailers manage ramp operation and maintenance risks.

    WorkSafe is proud to have had an oversight role in bringing the new guidance about.

    “We know industry is extremely keen for fresh guidance, and EUs can be a powerful way to deliver industry-led responses to identified risk gaps. Delivering guidance through an EU model has been a productive way to achieve our shared safety goals,” says WorkSafe’s Mark Horgan.

    The guide had input from a range of industry bodies including Civil Contractors NZ, Transporting NZ, the New Zealand Heavy Haulage Association, and the Truck & Trailer Manufacturers Federation.

    “This guidance represents a vital step forward in making the transport and delivery of heavy machinery safer across New Zealand’s construction and infrastructure sectors. Low-loader ramps are deceptively routine but present some of the highest-energy risks on site,” says CHASNZ spokesperson, Jon Harper-Slade.

    “By bringing together technical insights from manufacturers, operators, and industry experts, and applying an evidence-based approach to high-energy hazard control, we’ve produced guidance that is practical, targeted, and grounded in what actually works on the ground. This resource will continue to benefit the sector for years to come.”

    Read the good practice guide | CHASNZ(external link)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appeal for information on missing man in Wong Tai Sin (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Police today (July 10) appealed to the public for information on a man who went missing in Wong Tai Sin.

    Lam Wai-ming, aged 59, went missing after he left his residence in Fung Tak Estate on July 8. His family made a report to Police yesterday (July 9).

    He is about 1.8 metres tall and of medium build. He has a square face with yellow complexion and is bald. He was last seen wearing a dark blue long-sleeved top, grey trousers, black slippers and carrying a light grey recycle bag.

    Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing man or may have seen him is urged to contact the Regional Missing Persons Unit of Kowloon East on 3661 0335 or email to rmpu-ke-2@police.gov.hk, or contact any police station.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Volcano Watch — Snowshoeing on Kīlauea? High fountain episodes pose new challenges to volcano monitoring

    Source: US Geological Survey

    Volcano Watch is a weekly article and activity update written by U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory scientists and affiliates. 

    Following episode 27 of the Kīlauea summit eruption on June 29, USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory field engineers visited several sites southwest of Halemaʻumaʻu on July 1 to remove tephra that had accumulated on the solar panels and station infrastructure. USGS photos by M. Warren. 

    On July 10, HVO field engineers strapped snowshoes on as they prepared to work in the closed area of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, southwest of the

    USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory field engineers visited monitoring stations downwind of the Kīlauea summit eruptive vents on July 10.  USGS video. 

     two eruptive vents in Halemaʻumaʻu. With each step, the ground crunched and their feet sunk a little. The large footprint of snowshoes keep the field engineers walking on top of the frothy pumice everywhere, rather than through it. Tiny pieces of volcanic glass shimmered in the air, which was filled with the soft sound of clinking glass.  They wore full-face respirators to protect themselves from these particles, called tephra. 

    Tephra is a word for any volcanic material that is erupted and travels through the air before landing on the ground. It includes very small particles, such as volcanic ash, as well as light and frothy rocks full of holes called reticulite, more robust rocks like scoria, larger pieces called bombs, and ever-present Pele’s Hair. 

    Lava fountains of the ongoing episodic eruption in Halemaʻumaʻu have created a growing tephra blanket downwind of the eruptive vents.  On the crater rim closest to the vents, the tephra is as thick as 80 feet (25 meters). Lava flows fed by these fountaining episodes have also covered nearly 850 acres (344 hectares) of Halemaʻumaʻu crater floor, up to 236 feet (72 meters) thick in some areas. 

    HVO staff have moved several monitoring stations that were located in areas too close to lava flows or areas buried by falling tephra. The instruments themselves remained functional and most, including the F1 thermal camera, KWcam, B1cam, and continuous laser rangefinder, have been redeployed near the V1 streaming camera, an area less likely to be impacted by the eruption. The B2cam on the crater floor underwent a full melt down, but its solar power supply survived and was airlifted to the south rim to power the new V3 livestream camera. 

    Several other monitoring stations are located farther away from the vents but are still being impacted by the eruption. The instruments at these stations, many of which measure volcanic gas, are positioned southwest of the summit because that direction is usually downwind of summit eruptions during common trade wind conditions. Being downwind of the ongoing eruption means that, in addition to the gas they are designed to measure, the stations are subjected to tephra fall. 

    Infrastructure at monitoring stations in this area can be covered by tephra depending on the wind direction during an eruptive episode. Following eruptive episodes, HVO staff have visited these sites dig them out and to remove tephra from solar panels, restoring power to the station.

    Sulfur dioxide emission rates, which HVO measures to help track eruptive activity, are not possible when this part of the network is down. HVO staff are exploring other methods for obtaining sulfur dioxide emission rates. In the meantime, numerous measurements during past pauses and eruptive episodes allow us to generally estimates these emissions during different types of activity. During past eruptive pauses, sulfur dioxide emission rates have been measured as around 1,200-1,500 tonnes per day During past eruptive episodes, sulfur dioxide emission rates have been measured up to 75,000 tonnes per day. It’s likely that sulfur dioxide emission rates have been even higher during recent eruptive episodes, though measurements have not been possible. 

    High lava fountains can also temporarily block radio telemetry, preventing data flow from monitoring stations. Most telemetry paths have been re-routed to avoid this issue, but several instruments, including the Sandhill tiltmeter, Cone Peak (CNPK) GPS, and several seismic stations (WRM, SDH, CPKD, OTLD), may continue to be affected during episodes with high lava fountains. 

    The area southwest of eruptive vents can be difficult to access. Depending on the wind direction during lava fountaining episodes, more tephra can blanket the landscape (and access road) to the southwest with every episode. After each episode, HVO staff assess the feasibility of visiting monitoring sites with staff safety being the primary priority. 

    Although a small portion of the Kīlauea monitoring network is being impacted by the summit eruption, HVO is still able to adequately monitor Kīlauea. Maintaining the instrument network during eruptions is one of the challenges that comes with monitoring one of the most active volcanoes on Earth.

    Volcano Activity Updates

    Kīlauea has been erupting episodically within the summit caldera since December 23, 2024. Its USGS Volcano Alert level is WATCH.

    Episode 28 of the Kīlauea summit eruption in Halemaʻumaʻu crater occurred on July 9, with approximately 9 hours of fountaining from the north vent. The south vent did not activate and has been completely covered by new deposits.  Summit region inflation since the end of episode 28, along with persistent tremor, suggests that another episode is possible though more time (and data) are needed before a forecast can be made. Sulfur dioxide emission rates are elevated in the summit region during active eruption episodes. No unusual activity has been noted along Kīlauea’s East Rift Zone or Southwest Rift Zone. 

    Mauna Loa is not erupting. Its USGS Volcano Alert Level is at NORMAL.

    One earthquake was reported felt in the Hawaiian Islands during the past week: a M2.9 earthquake 10 km (6 mi) S of Volcano at 6 km (3 mi) depth on July 6 at 5:04 a.m. HST.

    HVO continues to closely monitor Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

    Please visit HVO’s website for past Volcano Watch articles, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa updates, volcano photos, maps, recent earthquake information, and more. Email questions to askHVO@usgs.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Dawn service held 40 years on from Rainbow Warrior bombing

    TVNZ 1News

    The Greenpeace flagship Rainbow Warrior has sailed into Auckland to mark the 40th anniversary of the bombing of the original Rainbow Warrior in 1985.

    Greenpeace’s vessel, which had been protesting nuclear testing in the Pacific, sank after French government agents planted explosives on its hull, killing Portuguese-Dutch photographer Fernando Pereira.

    Today, 40 years on from the events on July 10 1985, a dawn ceremony was held in Auckland.

    Author Margaret Mills was a cook on board the ship at the time, and has written about her experience in a book entitled Anecdotage.

    Author Margaret Mills tells TVNZ Breakfast about the night of the Rainbow Warrior bombing 40 years ago. Image: TVNZ

    The 95-year-old told TVNZ Breakfast the experience on board “changed her life”.

    “I was sound asleep, and I heard this sort of bang and turned the light on, but it wouldn’t go on.

    She said when she left her cabin, a crew member told her “we’ve been bombed”.

    ‘I laughed at him’
    “I laughed at him, I said ‘we don’t get bombs in New Zealand, that’s ridiculous’.”

    She said they were taken to the police station after a “big boom when the second bomb came through”.

    “I realised immediately, I was part of a historical event,” she said.

    TVNZ reporter Corazon Miller talks to Greenpeace Aotearoa executive director Russel Norman (centre) and journalist David Robie after the Rainbow Warrior memorial dawn service today. Image: TVNZ

    Journalist David Robie. who travelled on the Rainbow Warrior and wrote the book Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the Rainbow Warrior published today, told Breakfast it was a “really shocking, shocking night”.

    “We were so overwhelmed by the grief and absolute shock of what had happened. But for me, there was no doubt it was France behind this.”

    “But we were absolutely flabbergasted that a country could do this.”

    He said it was a “very emotional moment” and was hard to believe it had been 40 years since that time.

    ‘Momentous occasion’
    “It stands out in my life as being the most momentous occasion as a journalist covering that whole event.”

    Executive director of Greenpeace Aotearoa Russel Norman said the legacy of the ship was about “people who really stood up for something important”.

    “I mean, ending nuclear testing in the Pacific, imagine if they were still exploding bombs in the Pacific. We would have to live with that.

    “And those people back then they stood up and beat the French government to end nuclear testing.

    “It’s pretty inspirational.”

    He said the group were still campaigning on some key environmental issues today.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: School smartphone bans reflect growing concern over youth mental health and academic performance

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Margaret Murray, Associate Professor of Public Communication and Culture Studies, University of Michigan

    New laws that ban smartphones or social media for youth are being introduced across several Western nations. SeventyFour/iStock via Getty Images

    The number of states banning smartphones in schools is growing.

    New York is now the largest state in the U.S. to ban smartphones in public schools. Starting in fall 2025, students will not be allowed to use their phones during the school day, including during lunch, recess or in between classes. This bell-to-bell policy will impact almost 2.5 million students in grades K-12.

    By banning smartphones in schools, New York is joining states across the country. The bans are happening in both traditionally liberal and conservative states.

    Alabama, Arkansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and West Virginia all passed legislation in 2025 that requires schools to have policies that limit access to smartphones. The policies will go into effect in the 2025-2026 school year. This brings the total to 17 states, plus Washington, D.C., that have phone-free school legislation or executive orders.

    I’m a professor who studies communication and culture, and while writing a book about parenting culture, I’ve noticed the narrative around smartphones and social media shifting over the past decade.

    A turning tide

    Statewide cellphone policies are gaining momentum, with many states aiming to restrict use of the devices in classrooms.
    Thomas Barwick/Digital Vision via Getty Images

    According to the Pew Research Center, 67% of American adults support banning smartphones during class time, although only 36% support banning them for the entire school day. Notably, a majority of Republican, Democratic and independent voters all support bans during class time.

    More broadly, parent-led movements to limit children’s use of smartphones, social media and the internet have sprung up around the country. For example, the Phone-Free Schools Movement in Pennsylvania was launched in 2023, and Mothers Against Media Addiction started in New York in March 2024. These organizations, which empower parents to advocate in their local communities, follow in the footsteps of organizations such as Wait Until 8th in Texas and Screen Time Action Network at Fairplay in Massachusetts, which were formed in 2017.

    The concerns of these parent-led organizations were reflected in the best-selling book “The Anxious Generation,” which paints a bleak picture of modern childhood as dominated by depression and anxiety brought on by smartphone addiction.

    Phone-free schools are one of the four actions the book’s author, Jonathan Haidt, recommended to change course. The other three are no smartphones for children before high school, waiting until 16 for social media access, and allowing more childhood independence in the real world.

    Haidt’s research team collaborated with The Harris Poll to survey Gen Z. They found that almost half of those age 18-27 wish social media had never been invented, and 21% wish smartphones had never been invented. About 40% of Gen Z respondents supported phone-free schools.

    The Pew Research Center found that almost 40% of kids age 8-12 use social media, and almost 95% of kids age 13-17 use it, with nearly half of teens reporting that they use social media almost constantly.

    Phone-free schools are also part of the larger trend of states and nations resisting Big Tech, the large technology companies that play a significant role in global commerce.

    In May 2025, two U.S. senators introduced the Stop the Scroll Act, which would require mental health warnings on social media.

    New laws that ban smartphones or social media for youth are being introduced across several Western nations. Australia has banned all social media for those under 16.

    After a fatal stabbing at a middle school in eastern France on June 10, French President Emmanuel Macron announced the same day that he wants the European Union to set the minimum age for social media at 15. He argued that social media is a factor in teen violence. If the EU doesn’t act within a few months, Macron has pledged to enact a ban in France as soon as possible.

    The impact on learning

    Research suggests that students are less focused in class when they have access to cellphones.
    isuzek/E+ via Getty Images

    Although this trend of restricting use of phones in school is new, more states may adopt smartphone bans in the future. Bell-to-bell bans are viewed as especially powerful in improving academic performance.

    Some research has suggested that when children have access to a smartphone, even if they do not use it, they find it harder to focus in class. Initial research has found that academic performance improves after the bans go into effect.

    Test scores fell across the U.S. during the pandemic lockdown and have not returned to prepandemic levels. Some states, such as Maine and Oregon, are almost a full year behind grade level in reading. Not a single state has recovered in both math and reading.

    Statewide bans free local school districts from having to create their own technology bans, which can lead to heated debates. Although a majority of adults approve of banning smartphones in class, 24% oppose it for reasons such as wanting to be able to contact their kids throughout the day and wanting parents to set the boundaries.

    However, 72% of high school teachers say that phones are a major distraction. Anecdotally, schools report that students like the bans after getting used to the change.

    I signed the Wait Until 8th pledge mentioned in the article, promising not to give my kids a smartphone or social media until at least the end of 8th grade.

    – ref. School smartphone bans reflect growing concern over youth mental health and academic performance – https://theconversation.com/school-smartphone-bans-reflect-growing-concern-over-youth-mental-health-and-academic-performance-259962

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Three feral cats in one photo – monitoring shows predators aplenty on Rakiura

    Source: NZ Department of Conservation

    Striking remote camera images show introduced predators are abundant on Rakiura/Stewart Island, and they need to be urgently controlled this winter to protect pukunui/southern New Zealand dotterel and other native species.  

    The feral cats in this neck of the forest are big and healthy and there’s lots of them. This trail camera captured three in one frame (bottom right corner has the ear of the third)!
    The third cat comes into frame more fully. Feral cats pose the greatest threat to the critically endangered pukunui/southern New Zealand dotterel. See more photos below.

    The most extensive study of predators on Rakiura

    Nearly 300 trail cameras have been set up across approximately 3,000 hectares to monitor the abundance of feral cats, rats and possums before, during and after an upcoming aerial predator control operation. This action is part of the Department of Conservation’s Pukunui Recovery Project.

    With only 105 pukunui left, the operation aims to save the native bird from extinction by controlling predators, especially feral cats, across approximately 43,000 hectares. It’s the largest predator control operation ever on Rakiura. It will also be the most extensive study of predators on the island.

    Zero Invasive Predators (ZIP) has also established a network of trail cameras to gather data about rats and deer to inform future Predator Free Rakiura operations.

    Thousands of images were taken in the first round of monitoring over a two-week period in May this year within the pukunui operational area. As expected, they show high numbers of introduced predators, as well as tokoeka kiwi and white-tailed deer which are also being monitored as species of interest.

    Tītī/sooty shearwater were also observed and in one instance you can see a feral cat chasing one of the native sea birds and another shows a dangerously close interaction. See the striking photos below.

    The first phase of the pukunui operation is complete, and the second phase is scheduled to run from late July / early August, prior to the pukunui breeding season when the birds head up into the mountains to nest.

    How do the cameras work and where are they?

    The trail cameras are programmed to take bursts of photos when they sense movement, and a lure is set up in front of each camera to attract animals. The lure usually consists of fresh rabbit meat wrapped in a wire cage along with two terracotta tubes with a rabbit scent inside them. The photos are processed and sorted, with the help of AI, to identify and group photos of individual species and their locations.

    The cameras are set up from sea level at Doughboy Bay up and over the tops of the Tin Range where one of the last pukunui breeding grounds is located. There are also trail camera grids outside of the operational area at East Ruggedy and towards Mason Bay beach at Kilbride to serve as comparison sites.

    The camera grids will stay in place throughout the year, and images will be processed every three months or so to assess changes in the abundance of target predators and help measure the results of the operation.

    Learn more about the Pukukui Recovery Project. Preparing for a new generation of ‘underbirds’ on Rakiura | Conservation blog

    Trail camera photo gallery

    Take a look at some of the photos from the first round of camera monitoring. DOC will continue to share more images and data as it becomes available.

    Rakiura tokoeka kiwi marching home after a long night’s work. They are doing well on Rakiura because there aren’t any stoats. They will be even safer once we get feral cat numbers down and their habitat will improve with less rats and possums around eating forest food and plants.
    Possums are abundant and not only do they eat the eggs and young of native birds, but they eat and kill trees like the iconic Southern Rātā. The health of the forest depends on us getting rid of them. 
    We were surprised but excited to see a tītī here. There could be a lot more of them on mainland Rakiura if predators are removed.
    20 minutes later, a feral cat turns up at the same spot. Like pukunui, juvenile tītī are no match for feral cats. See an example of a cat hunting tītī further down.
    An older trail camera photo on Rakiura that shows a feral cat with a pukunui in its mouth taken from a nest.
    These are big Norway rats! They are the biggest species of rats, and they eat the eggs of native birds, lizards and invertebrates, as well as seeds which puts them in direct competition with native wildlife. The cameras also picked up ship rats and likely kiore.
    Kiwi and white-tailed deer are being monitored as species of interest. Deer are not a target species for the operation.
    A tītī from earlier this year observed by one of ZIP’s trail cameras. You can see the tip of a feral cat’s ear at the bottom of the frame.
    This next frame reveals that the tītī is being chased by a feral cat. Feral cats are known to prey upon tītī eggs, chicks and adult birds, especially when they are nesting or vulnerable on the ground. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Over 2,000 players to compete in Esports World Cup

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

    The opening press conference for the 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC) was held in Riyadh on Wednesday, marking the start of the world’s largest esports and gaming festival.

    Players for Team China enter the venue before the Arena of Valor Asian Games Version final of Esports at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang province, on Sept 26, 2023. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

    The 2025 EWC will open on Thursday evening with a star-studded opening ceremony. Running until August 24, the event features more than 2,000 elite players, 25 tournaments across 24 leading titles, and a prize pool of over 70 million U.S. dollars.

    Speaking at the press conference, Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation, said: “We are immensely proud to welcome back the world to Riyadh for the Esports World Cup. This event stands as a global milestone for esports by showcasing the scale, ambition and future of competitive gaming.”

    The 2025 EWC brings together the world’s top 200 clubs to compete in a cross-title format, the first of its kind.

    At the heart of the competition is the Club Championship, where teams accumulate points across multiple games to become the EWC club champion.

    “The 2025 EWC is about bringing the gaming world together – iconic games, elite players and millions of fans around a shared celebration,” said Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s Lin advances on three fronts at WTT US Smash

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

    Chinese paddler Lin Shidong overcame the demands of playing three matches in one day to advance in the men’s singles, men’s doubles and mixed doubles at the World Table Tennis (WTT) United States Smash on Wednesday.

    Lin had little difficulty in defeating Feng Yi-hsin of Chinese Taipei 11-8, 11-4, 11-8. The world No. 1 was joined in the last 16 by teammate Xiang Peng, who beat Indian qualifier Sathiyan Gnanasekaran in four games.

    Lin Shidong returns the ball during the men’s singles second round match against Feng Yi-hsin at the World Table Tennis (WTT) United States Smash in Las Vegas on July 9, 2025. (Photo courtesy of WTT)

    Third seed Tomokazu Harimoto of Japan was pushed to the limit in a five-game battle but prevailed over Nigerian ace Quadri Aruna, winning 11-1, 8-11, 8-11, 11-8, 11-5. However, Sweden’s fifth seed Truls Moregard was eliminated after a full-distance loss to Japan’s Yuta Tanaka.

    In doubles action, Lin teamed up with Huang Youzheng to reach the men’s quarterfinals by defeating American brothers Sid and Nandan Naresh in straight games. They will next face fellow Chinese duo Wang Chuqin and Liang Jingkun.

    Lin also partnered with Kuai Man in mixed doubles, cruising into the semifinals with a 3-0 win over Brazil’s Guilherme Teodoro and Giulia Takahashi.

    In women’s singles, China’s Wang Manyu and Wang Yidi delivered solid performances. Second seed Wang Manyu overcame South Korea’s Lee Eun-hye 11-4, 11-9, 11-9, while fourth seed Wang Yidi dispatched Portuguese veteran Fu Yu 11-8, 11-4, 8-11, 11-6.

    “I kept patient and was focused on my own game when facing crucial points,” said Wang Manyu.

    Wildcard Xu Yi was unable to join them in the last 16, falling to German veteran Han Ying 9-11, 7-11, 9-11.

    Elsewhere, Japan’s Mima Ito and Satsuki Odo, along with South Korea’s Shin Yu-bin, all advanced with straight-game victories.

    Also on Wednesday, Chinese women’s pairs Sun Yingsha and Wang Manyu, and Wang Yidi and Kuai Man, progressed to the quarterfinals in doubles.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – MetService issues Red Warning for the Tasman District

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Friday 11 July – At 9:59am MetService escalated the severe weather warnings in the Tasman District to a Red Warning for Heavy Rain, in consultation with the Tasman District Council. MetService Red Warnings are reserved for the most extreme weather events where significant impact and disruption is expected.

    The Red Rain Warning is valid until 11pm tonight (Friday) and covers the Tasman District about and southeast of Motueka and north of Lake Rotoroa, excluding Nelson City. The escalation to a Red Warning comes on the back of three weeks of heavy rain events that have led to very saturated conditions and high river levels, with further rainfall expected with the current weather system. The region has already seen more than 50 mm of rain so far today, with a further 80 to 120 mm expected.

    MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane says, “Dangerous river conditions, flooding, slips, and dangerous road conditions are expected.”

    “A Red Warning signifies that people need to act now as immediate action is required to protect people, animals and property from the impact of the weather. People should also be prepared to follow the advice of official authorities and emergency services.”

    This is the second Red Warning MetService has issued this year, and it’s the 17th Red Warning weather event since the highest alert level was introduced back in May 2019.

    A Watch for Strong Winds is also in place for the Tasman District for northerlies and northeasterlies approaching severe gale. The wet ground may act together with the strong winds to increase the chances of trees falling.

    It’s not just the top of the South Island which is lined up for severe weather. Many parts of the North Island are under a blanket of Warnings and Watches for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds. Northland, Auckland, Coromandel, and Bay of Plenty may see a period of downpours as the weather system moves across this afternoon and evening.

    Keep up to date with weather and warnings via metservice.com or our free MetService weather app.

    MetService also now provides push notifications for Red Severe Weather Warnings via our app. More information can be found here about enabling them.

    Understanding MetService Severe Weather Warning System

    Severe Thunderstorm Warnings (Localised Red Warning) – take cover now:

    This warning is a red warning for a localised area.
    When extremely severe weather is occurring or will do within the hour.
    Severe thunderstorms have the ability to have significant impacts for an area indicated in the warning.
    In the event of a Severe Thunderstorm Red Warning: Act now!

    Red Warnings are about taking immediate action:

    When extremely severe weather is imminent or is occurring
    Issued when an event is expected to be among the worst that we get – it will have significant impact and it is possible that a lot of people will be affected
    In the event of a Red Warning: Act now!

    Orange Warnings are about taking action:

    When severe weather is imminent or is occurring
    Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather
    In the event of an Orange Warning: Take action.

    Thunderstorm Watch means thunderstorms are possible, be alert and consider action

    Show the area that thunderstorms are most likely to occur during the validity period.
    Although thunderstorms are often localised, the whole area is on watch as it is difficult to know exactly where the severe thunderstorm will occur within the mapped area.
    During a thunderstorm Watch: Stay alert and take action if necessary.

    Watches are about being alert:

    When severe weather is possible, but not sufficiently imminent or certain for a warning to be issued
    Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather.
    During a Watch: Stay alert

    Outlooks are about looking ahead:

    To provide advanced information on possible future Watches and/or Warnings
    Issued routinely once or twice a day
    Recommendation: Plan.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road Transport Workforce Report released

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    National road freight association Transporting New Zealand has released the landmark 2025 Road Transport Workforce Report, in collaboration with Teletrac Navman.
    The report explores how the demographic makeup of New Zealand’s road freight industry evolved between 2013 and 2023, drawing from previously unreleased census data.
    The detailed snapshot of New Zealand’s trucking workforce revealed key insights around age, gender, nationality and ethnicity.
    Drivers aged over 65 made up more than 10 per cent of the workforce in 2023. This finding echoed that of the recent 2025 National Road Freight Survey, in which almost half of industry respondents (47 per cent) indicated that “up to 25 per cent” or more of their staff would retire or leave the industry in the next five years.
    The workforce report also found that the number of female truck drivers increased by 240 per cent between 2013 and 2023. Female drivers made up six per cent of the truck driving workforce in 2023.
    Migrant workers are also playing an increasingly important role with almost 25 per cent of drivers being born overseas as of 2023.
    Transporting New Zealand Chief Executive Dom Kalasih says the report provides a valuable insight into the truck driving workforce.
    “Truck drivers make up 1.2% of New Zealand’s total workforce, making it the 11th most common occupation in the country.”
    “With nearly 93% of New Zealand’s total freight tonnage moved by road, the demand for road freight services will only increase as our population continues to grow. Ensuring that the sector is staffed with skilled, capable drivers is more important than ever.”
    “As the workforce gets older, more truck drivers will reduce their hours or retire, leaving severe skill shortages. The road freight industry and the government must work together to ensure new entrants are supported through the driver development pipeline”.
    “The report sets out how Transporting New Zealand has been responding to these challenges, and how the road freight industry can develop, recruit and retain a diverse and resilient workforce.”
    “We’re very grateful to Teletrac Navman for supporting the Road Transport Workforce Report, as part of the multi-year Te ara ki tua Road to Success workforce development programme.”
    About Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand
    Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand is the peak national membership association representing the road freight transport industry. Our members operate urban, rural and inter- regional commercial freight transport services throughout the country.
    Road is the dominant freight mode in New Zealand, transporting 92.8% of the freight task on a tonnage basis, and 75.1% on a tonne-km basis. The road freight transport industry employs over 34,000 people across more than 4700 businesses, with an annual turnover of $6 billion. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Del Rio, federal partner investigation results in the sentencing of an illegal alien from Honduras for his role in an alien smuggling conspiracy

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    DEL RIO, Texas – A Honduran national unlawfully residing in the U.S. was sentenced July 9 for his leadership role in a massive alien smuggling conspiracy that spanned three years and involved thousands of aliens from over 11 different countries. The investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations Del Rio, with the assistance of various federal and state law enforcement agencies in South Texas.

    Enil Edil Mejia-Zuniga, also known as Chino, 34, of Olancho, Honduras, was sentenced July 9 by a federal judge to 10 years in prison and three years of supervised release for his role in smuggling thousands of aliens into the United States for financial gain. He was also ordered to pay a $4,500 fine. Mejia-Zuniga pleaded guilty to three counts of bringing an alien to the U.S. for financial gain and aiding and abetting.

    Co-defendants Monica Hernandez-Palma, 33, of Mexico, and Allyson Elsires Alvarez-Zuniga, 26, of Honduras, entered guilty pleas on April 7, and Aug. 21, 2023, respectively, and are awaiting sentencing. Co-defendant Genyi Arguenta-Flores, 32, of Comayagua, Honduras was sentenced to five years in prison on May 12. A final co-defendant is in custody in Mexico pending an extradition request from the U.S.

    “Mejia-Zuniga and his co-conspirators made millions of dollars off the backs of thousands of people whom they smuggled into the U.S,” said Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division Matthew R. Galeotti “This case represents the epitome of the ruthless and sophisticated criminal organizations that exploit our borders for personal financial gain. The Criminal Division will not stop investigating these cases until all human smuggling organizations are eradicated and the criminals who operate them are prosecuted.”

    “In an effort to satisfy his greed, Mejia-Zuniga facilitated the illegal movement of thousands of Middle Easterners into the U.S,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “His actions put our national security at risk. However, thanks to our many federal law enforcement partners, Mejia-Zuniga will no longer be allowed to enrich himself to the detriment of this country.”

    “This sentence sends a clear message to those who exploit our immigration system for personal profit,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee. “For more than three years, these individuals operated a transnational smuggling ring driven by greed, moving illegal aliens from 11 countries in blatant disregard of the law. The sentencing in this case is a testament to HSI’s commitment to upholding national security. Human smuggling undermines the security of our borders and disrupts lawful immigration processes. HSI will continue to work tirelessly to protect our national security.”

    “U.S Border Patrol’s Intelligence and Information Task Force played a critical role in supporting Operation Red Tide through extensive research and analysis,” said Chief of USBP Law Enforcement Operations Directorate Scott Good. “Our team’s exploitation of subpoena returns, and identification of key financial patterns helped bring these smugglers to justice. The USBP will continue working with law enforcement agencies at home and abroad to dismantle criminal networks and secure our nation’s borders.”

    According to court documents, from November 2020 through March 2023, the Mejia-Zuniga alien smuggling organization smuggled aliens from Afghanistan, Yemen, Egypt, India, Pakistan, and Colombia, through Eagle Pass, Texas. Aliens primarily contracted with a Pakistani smuggler based in Brazil to be transported to the U.S. In turn, the Brazilian-based smuggler worked with Mejia-Zuniga, who was based in San Antonio, Texas, to facilitate travel of the aliens from South America to the U.S. Mejia-Zuniga directed operations of the ASO and paid drivers, armed “coyotes,” and stash house operators.

    Mejia-Zuniga admitted to smuggling between 2,500 to 3,000 aliens into the U.S in just two years. The organization charged between $6,500 to $12,000 per alien. Mejia-Zuniga admitted that he made $30,000 for every 10 illegal aliens who made it to the Rio Grande River and another $30,000 if those 10 illegal aliens made it to San Antonio.

    One of the smuggled aliens reported paying the organization $20,000 to be brought illegally into the U.S along with his brother. The Mejia-Zuniga ASO directed that alien to a stash house in Monterrey, Mexico, where it housed him with 10 other aliens. The ASO later moved the same alien to a stash house in Piedras Negras, Mexico, with another 20 to 25 aliens. Ultimately, an armed coyote guided the group of aliens across the Rio Grande River. Once across the Rio Grande, the Mejia-Zuniga ASO transported the aliens to a hotel in San Antonio.

    In addition to witness statements, other evidence gathered during the investigation included wire transfers, customer ledgers, foreign identification documents, and photographs of members of the Mejia-Zuniga ASO with firearms.

    HSI Del Rio engaged in an extensive, years-long investigation in Operation Red Tide, which led to the development of this case, with assistance from the U.S. Border Patrol Del Rio Sector, HSI Monterrey, HSI Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., and U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force.

    Trial Attorney Jenna E. Reed of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Kass for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    The investigation and arrests of the defendants in Operation Red Tide were coordinated under Joint Task Force Alpha. JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security, has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by HRSP and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 390 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 350 U.S. convictions; more than 300 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    Members of the public can report crimes or suspicious activity by calling the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or by completing the online tip form.

    For more information about HSI San Antonio and its public safety efforts in Central and South Texas, follow HSI San Antonio on X at @HSI_SanAntonio.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Employment – Mental health worker numbers don’t tell full story of service under stress and strain – PSA

    Source: PSA

    The Government’s trumpeting of a rise in numbers of mental health and addiction service workers contrasts the everyday experiences of PSA members at the frontline.
    The Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey today said Health NZ payroll data showed total full-time staff employed in mental health growing by more than 9 per cent year on year between Quarter 3 in 2023 and Quarter 1 2025.
    But PSA members tell a different story.
    “Any increase in numbers is long overdue but this only scratches the surface and vacancies and roster shortages remain. With demand for services growing, partly due to a rise in drug use, we need far more mental health workers,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “The Minster’s own officials are also telling him something else.”
    In May 3 News obtained a draft report showing the scale of the workforce crisis, but the official report to the Minister removed the numbers. The draft report said 1,485 more frontline mental health and addiction workers were needed right now, including 470 specialist nurses, 145 psychiatrists and 145 clinical psychologists.
    “Conditions and pay must improve or more workers will face assaults, burn-out and depart for Australia where pay and resources are far better.
    “Our members tell alarming stories of the pressure they are under including:
    – Long delays filling vacancies, sometimes more than a year
    – Constant threats to safety from patients at EDs and in patient clinics
    – Concerns falling on deaf ears of managers
    The Government is also relying on data that is more than a year out of date to trumpet a minor fall in the vacancy rate from 11% to 10%.
    “These problems have been exacerbated by the phased police withdrawal of support, which is happening without an increase in resources at the frontline. This needs to be paused immediately.
    “The Minister needs to take his rose-tinted glasses off and properly invest in this critically important health service. New Zealanders deserve better.”
    The PSA represents mental health workers including mental health nurses, community mental health workers, psychologists, social workers, and child and adolescent specialists.
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arts – New work by talented writers win NZSA manuscript assessments

    Source: New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ) Inc

    The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ) Inc announce the writers who will receive manuscript guidance through this year’s CompleteMS programme.

    Powerful manuscripts crafted by these accomplished writers, have been chosen to be part of this year’s programme. Writers spend months polishing their stories for entry into this competitive and successful programme (open to NZSA members). 

    The thirteen successful writers receive a detailed assessment of their manuscript from one of Aotearoa / New Zealand’s leading writers and approved assessors, followed by a Q+A session with follow-up support.
    Our congratulations to the NZSA CompleteMS 2025 recipients: Anna Zam (Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland), Annabel Wilson (Swannanoa), Lisa Slavich (Whangārei), Barbara Scrivens (Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland), Tōrea Scott-Fyfe (Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington), Sarah Pratt (Ōtautahi Christchurch), Gráinne Patterson (Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai Lower Hutt), Bede Ngaruko (Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland), Shelly McNee (Hokitika), Kaye McLaren (Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington), Jacqui Gregory (Turangi), Denise Harrison Flett (Quebec, Canada), and Virginia Green(Whakatū Nelson).

    Always fiercely contested, this year’s CompleteMS programme received a record number of applications with 98 advanced and completed manuscripts submitted for the programme. 

    The highly skilled judging panel of convenor Harriet Allan (independent editor and ex-senior Penguin Random House editor), Lee Murray (multi award-winning speculative fiction writer and poet) and Melinda Szymanik(multi award-winning writer of picture books, short stories and novels for children and young adults) had a complex judging task to complete and commented: ‘The huge number of applications was daunting, the selection challenging but cheering, for so many people are keen to hone their manuscripts and develop their skills. 
    And so many of the manuscripts showed such promise that there was a lot of jostling for the thirteen places available. 
    The judging panel would have loved to have had the capacity to award more assessments. Those who missed out should feel confident that their works are still close to completion, as the quality of manuscripts submitted was high.’ – Harriet Allan.

    NZSA would also like to congratulate shortlisted writers: Penelope Scott, Keryn Powell, Nikki Crutchley, Janine Williams and Carolyn Cossey.

    Many past recipients have produced final manuscripts that have achieved publication and acclaim.

    CompleteMS Manuscript Assessments are offered by The NZ Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa (Pen NZ) Inc every year with the intent of fostering and developing emerging talent with the support of established practitioners.

    The NZSA has run highly successful manuscript assessment and mentoring programmes for writers since 1999 and our programmes are supported by funding from Creative New Zealand.

    The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa PEN NZ Inc is the principal organisation representing writers in Aotearoa.

    Founded in 1934, it advocates for the right to fair reward and creative rights, administers prizes and awards, works closely with the literary sector, and runs professional development programmes for writers.    

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China hopes to optimize trade and expand cooperation with Egypt – Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China /more details/

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CAIRO, July 10 (Xinhua) — China is willing to work with Egypt to advance the optimization and development of bilateral trade and create more bright spots for cooperation and new economic growth points, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in Cairo on Thursday.

    As Li Qiang noted during talks with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, the two countries can expand cooperation in emerging areas such as new energy, electric vehicles, artificial intelligence and the digital economy.

    The Premier stressed that China always prioritizes developing relations with Egypt in its diplomacy in the Middle East.

    He recalled that in 2024, China and Egypt jointly celebrated the 10th anniversary of the establishment of comprehensive strategic partnership relations, and the two meetings between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi set guidelines for the future development of bilateral ties.

    In 2026, China and Egypt will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. As Li Qiang pointed out, at this important juncture, China hopes to maintain close high-level exchanges with Egypt, strengthen strategic dialogue, deepen political mutual trust and practical cooperation.

    The Chinese leader called on both sides to support each other on the path to modernization, bringing more benefits to the peoples of the two countries.

    The Premier of the State Council said that China is willing to work with Egypt to strengthen the alignment of development strategies, expand and increase investment and cooperation within the framework of high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road, and effectively implement projects to improve people’s well-being.

    As Li Qiang noted, the two sides should intensify cultural and humanitarian exchanges and mutual learning, deepen cooperation in the fields of culture, tourism, media, youth and at the local level, strengthening public support for friendly cooperation between the two countries.

    The Chinese side supports Egypt in strengthening its role in international and regional affairs, and is willing to closely coordinate and cooperate with Egypt within the framework of multilateral mechanisms such as the UN and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to implement genuine multilateralism, uphold economic globalization and the international economic and trade order, safeguard the common interests of a wide range of developing countries, and promote peace and stability in the Middle East and the world, the Chinese premier added.

    M. Madbouly, for his part, noted that Egypt and China have long-standing and deep relations, and traditional friendship is deeply rooted in the hearts of the peoples of both countries.

    Pointing out that in recent years, under the leadership of the two heads of state, the Egyptian-Chinese comprehensive strategic partnership has shown strong momentum and is experiencing the best period in history, M. Madbouly stressed that Egypt firmly adheres to the one-China principle, respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the PRC, resolutely supports China’s position on issues related to Taiwan, Xi Jinping and Hong Kong, and is categorically opposed to any interference in China’s internal affairs.

    He expressed gratitude to China for its assistance in Egypt’s socio-economic development and said that his country is willing to work with China to deepen political mutual trust, strengthen cooperation in traditional areas such as trade, investment, finance, industry and infrastructure, expand cooperation in emerging sectors including new energy, green economy and space, intensify cultural and people-to-people exchanges and promote ever-new achievements in African-Chinese and Arab-Chinese cooperation.

    According to Madbouly, Egypt highly appreciates China’s fair and just position on Middle East issues and is willing to strengthen coordination with China within the UN, BRICS and other multilateral platforms to protect common interests and maintain peace and stability in the region.

    Following the talks, the heads of government of the two countries attended the signing of a number of documents on cooperation in areas such as e-commerce, green and low-carbon development, development assistance, finance and healthcare. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Rugby headgear can’t prevent concussion – but new materials could soften the blows over a career

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nick Draper, Professor of Sport and Exercise Science, University of Canterbury

    The widely held view among rugby players, coaches and officials is that headgear can’t prevent concussion. If so, why wear it? It’s hot, it can block vision and hearing, and it can be uncomfortable.

    Headgear was originally designed to protect players from cuts and abrasions. But players still hope it will offer them a degree of protection against the collisions they experience in the game. Some players adopt it after previous concussions.

    We’re now seeing increasing numbers of professional players opting in. The Irish men’s team, for example, field up to five players each match sporting headgear. In Japan, it’s mandatory for juniors. And more parents in New Zealand are making their children wear it, too.

    The exact specifications for rugby match kit – boots, shorts, shoulder pads and
    headgear – are regulated through World Rugby’s Law 4 and Regulation 12. In 2019, the governing body launched a trial enabling players to wear headgear with new technical specifications in training and matches.

    The specifications have meant manufacturers can take advantage of novel “isotropic” materials that can potentially reduce the impact forces experienced by players.

    Conventional headgear is composed of soft foams that flatten when a player’s head collides with the ground or another player. As such, they can only minimally absorb those collision forces.

    Isotropic materials behave differently. They can absorb impacts from multiple directions and may offer a level of protection against the effects on a player’s head of a tackle or other collision event.

    Given these changes, and in light of recent research, we may need to change the narrative around rugby headgear: while it may not prevent concussion, it might reduce the total contact “burden” experienced by players in a game and over a whole season. And this could have benefits for long-term brain health.

    Impacts across seasons and careers

    Contact in rugby – through tackles, at the breakdown, and in scrums and lineouts – leads to players experiencing a number of collisions or “head acceleration events”. This contact is most commonly head to ground, head to body or head to head.

    By having players use “smart” mouthguards with embedded micro-accelerometers and gyroscopes to capture head movements, researchers can now measure each collision and each player’s contact load in a game – and potentially over a career.

    A player’s total contact load is found by adding together the magnitude of the impacts they experience in a game. These are measured as “peak linear accelerations” or “peak rotational accelerations”.

    While past research and media attention has focused on concussion, it has become clear the total contact burden in training and matches – the total “sub-concussive knocks” through head acceleration events – may be as important, if not more so.

    One of our own research projects involved following 40 under-16 players wearing smart mouthguards for all training and matches across one season. Peak Linear accelerations are measured as a g-force (g). Activities such as such as running, jumping and shaking the head would measure under 8g, for example, whereas heading a soccer ball might measure 31g.

    The results of our study showed the players differed greatly in their cumulative exposure over a whole season, from 300g to nearly 14,000g. These differences would be amplified further over an entire rugby career.

    Some of the variation is likely due to a player’s team position, with loose forwards having a greater burden than others. But it also seems some players just enjoy the contact aspects of the game more than others.

    Rugby is an impact sport: the Ireland and England women’s teams clash in 2025.
    Getty Images

    Potential benefits of new headgear materials

    Researcher Helen Murray at the University of Auckland has highlighted the need for more research into the burden of collisions, rather than just concussions, over a rugby career. In particular, we need to know more about its effect on future brain health.

    We hope to contribute to this by following our existing cohort of players through their careers. In the meantime, our research has examined the potential of existing rugby headgear and new isotropic materials to mitigate peak accelerations in rugby collisions.

    Using the field data collected from male and female players over the past four seasons, we have designed laboratory testing protocols to compare the conventional and newer materials.

    The results suggest the new forms of headgear do have the potential to reduce the impact burden for players.

    We found 55–90% of head acceleration events do involve direct contact with the head. As such, collision-mitigation headgear could be beneficial. And our laboratory testing produced an estimated 30% reduction in peak linear accelerations with the headgear compared to without.

    The nature of concussion is complex and related to the size of an impact as well as its direction and angle. For instance, we observed the concussions experienced by the junior players occurred between 12g and 62g – well below the male threshold of 70g requiring professional players to be removed from the field for a head injury assessment.

    Currently, it seems unlikely headgear can prevent concussion. But it does appear new headgear materials could significantly reduce the total impact burden for players during their careers. And this may help safeguard their future brain health.

    Nick Draper receives funding from the Health Research Council, Cure Kids, the Neurological Foundation, Canterbury Medical Research Foundation, Pacific Radiology Group, the Maurice and Phyllis Paykel Trust, and the UC Foundation.

    – ref. Rugby headgear can’t prevent concussion – but new materials could soften the blows over a career – https://theconversation.com/rugby-headgear-cant-prevent-concussion-but-new-materials-could-soften-the-blows-over-a-career-258912

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: China ready to optimize trade, expand cooperation with Egypt — premier

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

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang holds talks with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Kamal Madbouly in Cairo, Egypt, July 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    CAIRO, July 10 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Thursday that China is willing to work with Egypt to optimize the development of bilateral trade and create more highlights of cooperation as well as new drivers of economic growth.

    The two countries can expand cooperation in emerging fields such as new energy, electric vehicles, artificial intelligence and digital economy, Li said during his meeting with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Kamal Madbouly.

    China has always prioritized developing relations with Egypt in its Mideast diplomacy, Li said.

    In 2024, China and Egypt jointly celebrated the 10th anniversary of their comprehensive strategic partnership and the two meetings between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi provided guidance for the future development of bilateral ties, Li said.

    In 2026, China and Egypt will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. At this pivotal juncture, China is willing to maintain close high-level exchanges with Egypt, strengthen strategic dialogue, consolidate political mutual trust, and deepen practical cooperation, Li said.

    He called on both sides to support each other on the path to modernization and bring greater benefits to their peoples.

    Li pointed out that China is willing to strengthen the alignment of development strategies with Egypt, expand and enhance investment and cooperation within the framework of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and effectively implement livelihood improvement projects.

    The two sides should enhance people-to-people and cultural exchanges and mutual learning, deepen cooperation in areas such as culture, tourism, media, youth and local affairs, and further strengthen the public support for friendly cooperation between the two countries, he said.

    China supports Egypt in playing a greater role in international and regional affairs and is willing to closely coordinate and cooperate with Egypt within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to practice genuine multilateralism, safeguard economic globalization and international economic and trade order, defend the common interests of developing countries, and promote peace and stability in the Middle East and the world, Li added.

    For his part, Madbouly noted that Egypt and China have been enjoying long-standing and profound relations, with traditional friendship deeply rooted in the hearts of the two peoples.

    In recent years, under the leadership of the two heads of state, the Egypt-China comprehensive strategic partnership has shown a strong momentum, and is at its best in history, he said, adding that Egypt firmly upholds the one-China principle, respects China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, firmly supports China’s stance on the Taiwan question and issues related to Xizang and Hong Kong, and resolutely opposes any interference in China’s internal affairs.

    Expressing gratitude for China’s assistance in Egypt’s economic and social development, Madbouly said the country is willing to expand political mutual trust with China, strengthen cooperation in traditional areas such as trade, investment, finance, industry and infrastructure, expand collaboration in emerging fields including new energy, green economy and space, enhance people-to-people exchanges, and promote more achievements in Africa-China and Arab-China cooperation.

    Egypt highly appreciates China’s just and fair stance on Mideast issues and stands ready to strengthen coordination with China within the United Nations, the BRICS and other multilateral frameworks to safeguard common interests and uphold regional peace and stability, he said.

    After the meeting, Li and Madbouly jointly witnessed the signing of multiple cooperation documents in such areas as e-commerce, green and low-carbon development, development assistance, finance and health.

    Chinese Premier Li Qiang holds talks with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Kamal Madbouly in Cairo, Egypt, July 10, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update – search for missing Whanganui man

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police are continuing to search for missing Whanganui man Kahu Gill.

    Kahu, aged 20, was last seen on Friday 27 June.

    A car matching the description of Kahu’s car was found in the Whanganui River on 2 July.

    The Police National Dive Squad was deployed and confirmed that Kahu was not in the car, which has since been recovered from the river. 

    Tragically we believe it is likely that Kahu was in the car when it crashed into the river. The river was flooded at the time and we believe Kahu may have been swept away. 

    As part of our ongoing search efforts, an aerial search is planned for tomorrow.

    We also continue to appeal for reports of any clothing being found near the river or coastline, matching the description of the clothes Kahu was wearing when last seen – a black hoody with red text on the sleeves, and camo cargo pants.

    Reports can be made via 105, referencing file number 250702/3842.
     

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: B.C., First Nations advance long-term water planning for Nicola watershed

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province and the Coldwater, Lower Nicola, Nooaitch, Shackan and Upper Nicola Indian Bands (the Nicola 5 First Nations) are taking the next step to protect healthy and abundant water for people, fish and ecosystems in the Nicola watershed.

    The Nicola watershed, which includes the Nicola River and its tributaries, has been affected by drought, water shortages and shrinking salmon runs in recent years. In response, the Province and the Nicola 5 First Nations are strengthening their shared efforts and have committed to leading the development of a water sustainability plan under B.C.’s Water Sustainability Act.

    “This work reflects a deep commitment to reconciliation, healthy rivers and salmon, and to practical, long-term solutions for the people who live and rely on this watershed,” said Randene Neill, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship. “By shifting from short-term, crisis-driven decisions to long-term, community-informed water management, we are taking the next step in a long journey of working together toward lasting water security.”

    The plan will be developed in phases and shaped by input from all major water users in the region, including farmers, ranchers, local governments and community members. Establishing shared priorities and clear expectations early reduces the need for emergency measures, such as temporary protection orders.

    The value of this kind of collaborative approach and open communication was clear in 2023, when ranchers and other water users in the region voluntarily reduced their water usage during a dry summer, avoiding stricter regulations.

    This work aims to address long-standing challenges in the watershed, including water shortages, declining salmon populations and threats to aquatic ecosystems, through Indigenous-led governance and integrated decision-making across sectors.

    The Nicola Watershed Water Sustainability Plan will also support several key provincial priorities, including:

    • advancing reconciliation with First Nations;
    • strengthening watershed security in partnership with First Nations and local governments;
    • modernizing land-use and water planning with community input;
    • improving drought preparedness; and
    • creating more opportunities for local agricultural producers to be involved in water sustainability planning.

    This is the first step in a multi-year planning process. The Province will work with the Nicola 5 First Nations to engage local communities throughout the development of the plan.

    Quotes:

    Stuart Jackson, Chief, Lower Nicola Indian Band –

    “Today marks an important milestone for the Nicola Watershed Governance Partnership. By entering into this water sustainability planning process with the Province, we are fulfilling a vision our Nations set out years ago: to work together in true partnership to protect the water, land and all living things that depend on the Nicola watershed. This agreement is a clear step forward in shared decision-making and reconciliation. It builds on the trust, collaboration and innovation we’ve built through the Nicola Watershed Governance Partnership, where we braid together western and Indigenous laws, science, knowledge and values to care for these lands and waters for the benefit of present and future generations. Water is life. It connects our communities, our languages, our cultures and all living things. We look forward to continuing this work with the Province, guided by our Elders, our communities and our shared responsibility to support a healthy and resilient Nicola watershed for all.”

    Mike Goetz, mayor, Merritt –

    “Merritt is a progressive and growing community that is very focused on conservation of water, from setting new standards for water usage year-round to installing water meters. As such we look forward to working collaboratively with the Nicola Watershed Governance Partnership on planning for water in the Nicola watershed.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Body recovered in search for missing diver

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Search crews looking for a missing diver have located a body near Paratutae Island.

    Formal identification has yet to take place, but it is believed to be the diver who was reported missing at Whatipū Beach early yesterday morning.

    Police have informed the person’s family, who are being provided with support at this incredibly difficult time.

    The Police National Dive Squad, Police Search and Rescue and Maritime were involved with this morning’s efforts.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fire and Emergency New Zealand specialist teams in Nelson to support community

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand has deployed an eight-person specialist water rescue team from Christchurch to Nelson in advance of more heavy rain warnings.
    Director Service Delivery Operations Brendan Nally says the team got into place early as Nelson has only two roads into the district, and they are prone to flooding and cutting the district off.
    “Our specialist team is on the ground ready to support local brigades if needed when the rain comes,” Brendan Nally says.
    We are warning people not to drive through any floodwater and to respect all “road closed” signs. “It’s impossible to judge the depth of water so when people become stranded, they are in danger of drowning.”
    Fire and Emergency is also deploying a four- person wide area damage assessment team to Nelson this morning. These teams are part of Fire and Emergency’s urban search and rescue capability, and they assess whether buildings impacted by floods, landslips and earthquakes are safe to enter.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Israel’s relocation plan for Palestinians and fading hopes for a ceasefire

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jonathan Este, Senior International Affairs Editor, Associate Editor

    This article was first published in The Conversation UK’s World Affairs Briefing email newsletter. Sign up to receive weekly analysis of the latest developments in international relations, direct to your inbox.

    It was revealing this week to read reports of Benjamin Netanyahu’s meeting with Donald Trump (his third White House visit since Trump’s inauguration in January). There was no sense that the US president upped the pressure on the Israeli prime minister to soften Israel’s conditions in order to secure a ceasefire. Instead the pair appears to have discussed the prospect of moving large numbers of Palestinians out of the Gaza Strip to countries what would, as Netanyahu put it, “give Palestinians a better future”.

    If Israel’s defence minister, Israel Katz, has his way, the future for those Palestinians who want to stay put does indeed look pretty bleak. And the 57,000 people who, according to figures collated by the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry, have lost their lives since the Israeli assault on Gaza began back in October 2023, have no future at all.

    But the plan for the future of Gazan Palestinians that Katz unveiled this week will horrify many too. It involves the construction of a “humanitarian city” at Rafah, close to the Egyptian border at the very southern end of the Strip. Under the plan, people entering the city will be searched for weapons and checked for affiliation to Hamas. Once in, they will not be allowed to leave, except to depart from Gaza altogether.

    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.

    This immediately prompted critics to accuse the Israeli government of ethnic cleansing. James Sweeney, an expert in human rights and international law at the University of Lancaster, believes that, if Israel were to carry out Katz’s plan, there would be strong case against political and military leaders for war crimes and crimes against humanity. He argues that the plan amounts at the very least to the forcible transfer of civilians prohibited under the Geneva conventions and the Rome statute, which underpins the International Criminal Court (ICC).

    The snag, as Sweeney sees it, is going to be enforcing international law. While there is an ICC warrant out for the arrests of Netanyahu and his former defence minister, Yoav Gallant, the Israeli prime minister was able to visit Washington without fear of being apprehended. The US doesn’t recognise the ICC and, indeed, the prosecutor that issued the warrant against Netanyahu and Gallant is now subject to US sanctions.



    Read more:
    Plans to relocate Gazans to a ‘humanitarian city’ look like a crime against humanity – international law expert

    Of course, what happens in Gaza tends to reverberate throughout the region. If hundreds of thousands of Palestinian citizens are moved out of Gaza, it’s likely to be to one of the neighbouring countries. When the idea of a Trump Riviera was first mooted earlier this year, the US president said the Palestinian population could be rehomed in Egypt or Jordan – something both those countries pushed back against with alacrity.

    And the powerful Gulf States, which Trump was keen to woo as business partners when he made a tour of the region in May, are also deeply concerned about Israel’s conduct of its military campaign in Gaza. Geopolitics aside, their populations are broadly sympathetic to the Palestinian people, so a plan to force them out of their homes is unacceptable for Gulf leaders.

    Scott Lucas, an expert in Middle East politics at University College Dublin, gives us a broader view of the region. He describes what he calls two “kaleidoscope moments” when one event has changed the entire region. The first was the Hamas attack of October 7. This brought to an abrupt end the process of normalisation of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. The second was the 12-day war between Israel and Iran, which has further isolated Israel. Lucas believes for there to be any hope of regional stability and the furthering of Israeli relations with the rest of the region, the war in Gaza must end.



    Read more:
    As Netanyahu meets Trump in Washington, what hope for peace in Gaza? Expert Q&A

    Ali Mamouri, a Middle East scholar at Australia’s Deakin University doesn’t believe there’s much chance of this happening any time soon. Part of this is political: Netanyahu still depends on the far-right elements of his coalition represented by national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich. They remain steadfastly opposed to even a ceasefire and want to see Israel expel Palestinians by hook or by crook.

    Also, by prolonging the war, Netanyahu can keep delaying his corruption trial (incidentally, Donald Trump has called for the charges to be dropped altogether).

    And the idea of full statehood for Palestine remains anathema for Israel, as Netanyahu made clear this week talking with journalists after his meeting with Trump when he made clear his insistence that far from pulling Israeli troops out of Gaza, Israel would keep full control of all security matters there: “Now, people will say: ‘It’s not a complete state, it’s not a state.’ We don’t care,” he said.

    Mansour concludes: “The coming weeks will reveal whether Israel chooses the path of compromise and coexistence, or continues down a road that forecloses the possibility of lasting peace.”



    Read more:
    The US has high hopes for a new Gaza ceasefire, but Israel’s long-term aims seem far less peaceful

    Europe must step up over Ukraine

    Just as the picture remains bleak in Gaza, the prospects for peace remain very slim in Ukraine. Although given Donald Trump’s mercurial approach to foreign affairs, it’s also fair to say that anything is possible.

    This week the US president decided to recommence US arms supplies to Ukraine, having previously frozen military aid (although he insists this was done by his defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, and that he was “blindsided” by the move). His relationship with Putin appears to have soured – for the present at least. He said: “We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin, if you want to know the truth. He’s very nice all of the time, but it turns out to be meaningless.”

    And at the most recent Nato summit in The Hague on June 25, Trump put his signature to a declaration that Russia poses “long-term threat … to Euro-Atlantic security” and that Nato member states retain “their enduring sovereign commitments to provide support to Ukraine”.

    But Stefan Wolff, an expert in international security at the University of Birmingham, believes that Nato’s European members cannot bank on the US as a reliable long-term partner. There are few signs that the US is pressuring Russia to compromise on its maximalist aims, which remain unchanged since it invaded Ukraine in February 2022. So Russia remains the most urgent threat to European security. And it’s a threat that Europe will need to prepare to confront, if necessary without US assistance.

    But there are signs that many European countries are preparing to do just that, Wolff writes. Increased commitments to defence spending are a strong start. As he concludes: “They will not turn Europe into a military heavyweight overnight. But they will buy time to do so.”



    Read more:
    US backs Nato’s latest pledge of support for Ukraine, but in reality seems to have abandoned its European partners

    Understandably, much of the reporting of the war in Ukraine has focused on the human tragedy unfolding in the war-torn country: the enormous casualty list on both sides, civilians killed or forced from their homes in the fighting, and the Ukrainian citizens forced to live under Russian occupation.

    But a new film, which premiered recently at the Tribeca film festival, looks at War Through the Eyes of Animals. Janine Natalya Clark, an expert in transitional justice at the University of Birmingham, has done similar. Clark interviewed a number of Ukrainian natural scientists including botanists, ornithologists, herpetologists (who study reptiles and amphibians) and a marine biologist. She asked them to make sound recordings in their area to reflect on how the war is affecting Ukraine’s flora and fauna.

    What emerged was extraordinary and reflects how the conflict has affected the natural world in both positive and negative ways. Clark believes that this information will be invaluable when it comes to rebuilding Ukraine and in securing justice and reparations for the damage done – not just to humans, but to Ukraine’s animals and the habitats in which they live.



    Read more:
    Sound recordings can give us an animal-eye view of the war in Ukraine

    In Russia, meanwhile, a controversial measure introduced by the Putin government is dividing public opinion. In some parts of the country, schoolgirls who become pregnant are being paid more than 100,000 roubles (nearly £900) for giving birth and raising their babies.

    Jannifer Mathers, a Russia expert at Aberystwyth University, looks at the rise of pronatalism in the face of declining populations and finds it’s not just an issue in Russia, but for many other countries as well, including the US.



    Read more:
    Russia is paying schoolgirls to have babies. Why is pronatalism on the rise around the world?

    World Affairs Briefing from The Conversation UK is available as a weekly email newsletter. Click here to get updates directly in your inbox.

    – ref. Israel’s relocation plan for Palestinians and fading hopes for a ceasefire – https://theconversation.com/israels-relocation-plan-for-palestinians-and-fading-hopes-for-a-ceasefire-260933

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Court Ruling Blocking Click-To-Cancel Rule, Schatz, Kennedy Introduce Legislation To Stop Deceptive Subscription Business Practices

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz

    WASHINGTON – Following a ruling from a federal court that blocked the Federal Trade Commission’s “click-to-cancel” rule that was set to go into effect on Monday, U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and John Kennedy (R-La.) introduced the Unsubscribe Act. The bipartisan bill would require companies to be more transparent about their subscription-based business models and make it easier for consumers to cancel their subscriptions once their free or reduced-price trial period has ended.

    “Our bill will require companies to be more transparent about their business model and make it easier for consumers to avoid costly, automatic monthly charges they never intended to make,” said Senator Schatz. “The subscription-based business model is exploding, and it’s largely because of the deceptive practices that some companies use to lure and trap in customers. When people sign up for a free trial, they shouldn’t have to jump through hoops just to cancel their subscription before being charged.”

    “The average American is all too familiar with the headache of running around in circles to cancel a subscription before their free trial expires. Our common-sense Unsubscribe Act would make sure companies are upfront about automatic charges and make it easier to cancel subscriptions without the convoluted song-and-dance routine,” said Senator Kennedy.

    From video streaming and news to food delivery and fashion, subscription-based services have become a key part of today’s economy. A major driver of their growth is the use of free or low-cost trial offers to attract new customers. These trials give users a chance to explore the service at little to no cost before committing to a paid subscription. Unfortunately, in order to retain customers, some subscription providers rely on deceptive marketing, confusing contracts, and restrictions that make it difficult for customers to cancel their subscriptions.

    The Unsubscribe Act would:

    • Require sellers to provide customers with a clear understanding of all the terms of the contract and obtain the customer’s express and informed consent;
    • Require sellers to provide a simple means of canceling the subscription, which the customer can complete in the same way in which the original contract was entered into;
    • Require sellers to provide a clear notice to consumers when their free or reduced-cost trial is complete and before charging for the full-cost subscription;
    • Disallow automatic transfer to a contract beyond the preliminary period; and
    • Require sellers to periodically notify the customer of the terms of the contract and the cancelation mechanism.

    Companion legislation is set to be introduced in the House of Representatives by U.S. Representative Mark Takano (D-Calif.).

    “Too many consumers are lured in by free trials, only to get trapped in confusing billing cycles and cancellation mazes. The Unsubscribe Act is about fairness—it puts the burden back on companies to be honest, clear, and accountable. If a business has to trick people into staying, it does not deserve their money,” said Representative Takano.

    The Schatz-Kennedy legislation is supported by Consumer Action, Truth in Advertising, the National Consumer League (NCL), Public Citizen, and Consumer Federation of America.

    “Reining in subscription traps is a massively popular and nonpartisan issue,” said John Breyault, Vice President of Public Policy, Telecommunications, and Fraud at NCL. “Passing the Unsubscribe Act is critical to protecting consumers from these predatory practices.”

    “Consumers deserve safeguards to prevent them from being trapped into paying for a service they no longer want with no straightforward way to cancel a subscription. With this week’s win by conservative big business interests in the courts against the FTC, Senator Schatz’s Unsubscribe Act is even more critical. We applaud this sensible measure to protect the public and hope it swiftly becomes law,” said Lisa Gilbert, Co-President of Public Citizen.

    The full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Campus redevelopment marks new chapter for EIT Hawke’s Bay

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

    25 seconds ago

    A limestone mauri stone that survived Cyclone Gabrielle has been placed at the heart of EIT’s Hawke’s Bay campus in Taradale, marking the opening of the new Te Papa o Kiwa quadrant and a fully refurbished student hub.

    The Tim Twist Building, formerly the Twist Library, is now the campus’s main student hub. It houses Te Pārongo (Reception, Information, Library and IT Support) and Te Kuhunga (Registry and Enrolment), bringing key services together in one place.

    The building connects directly to Te Papa o Kiwa – the landing place of Kiwa – the enhanced quad designed as a central point of orientation for students, staff and visitors.

    The redevelopment follows widespread damage to the campus caused by Cyclone Gabrielle in February 2023, when floodwaters from the Tūtaekurī River breached stopbanks and severely affected 85 to 90 per cent of ground-floor buildings. In the aftermath, the focus was firmly on supporting students and restoring key services as quickly and meaningfully as possible.

    At the entrance to the quad sits a limestone mauri stone, formally named Te Taupunga o Parawhenuamea, meaning “the anchor that withstands the floodwaters of Parawhenuamea”, by local kaumatua. Relocated from beneath a kauri tree, the stone symbolises strength, recovery and connection in the wake of the cyclone.

    The stone was placed as part of a dawn ceremony on Tuesday, attended by staff, students, kaumatua and community representatives.
    EIT Operations Lead Glen Harkness said the redevelopment reflects EIT’s commitment to putting students at the centre of recovery.

    “Our main focus has always been our students. This redevelopment symbolises our collective resilience and our commitment to providing a supportive and inspiring environment for all who study and work here,” Harkness said.

    The Tim Twist Building and Te Papa o Kiwa follow the reopening of B Block and Te Ara o Tāwhaki marae in February. B Block, now named Te Pae Hono (a threshold of connection), houses Māori, Pacific and Disability Student Support Services and a multipurpose council room.

    The building also features contemporary Māori and Pacific design elements created in collaboration with Poutiaki Taonga (Archive and Collections Manager) Chris Bryant-Toi, postgraduate artists Kylarni Tamaiva-Eria and Tim Whaitiri-Henderson, kaumātua-led community groups, Chow Hill Architects and other industry professionals.

    Storytelling walls, tāniko-inspired flooring, river motifs and a suspended waka sculpture bring cultural narratives to life within the space.

    “The creative starting point for us was Jacob Scott’s stained glass window representing Tāne, Te Aho a Māui and Te Ara o Tāwhaki Marae.

    From there, we could connect to other cultures and shared histories, taking something seemingly old and revitalising it with cutting-edge digital technology.”

    Chris said the designs reflect both the experience of Cyclone Gabrielle and ongoing rangahau research.

    “We’ve created new imagery that contributes to global conversations around resilience, identity and the climate movement.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –