Category: Asia Pacific

MIL-Evening Report: Gaza: Global community must act amid reports of starvation of journalists, says IPI

By Jamie Wiseman

The International Press Institute (IPI) has joined calls for urgent action to halt the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Gaza as global news organisations warn that their journalists there are experiencing starvation.

Israel must immediately allow life-saving food aid to reach journalists and other civilians in Gaza, IPI said in a statement today.

“The international community must also put effective pressure on Israel to allow all journalists to enter and exit the territory and to document the ongoing catastrophe,”it said.

In an unprecedented joint statement this week, the Associated Press, Agence France-Presse, BBC News, and Reuters — four of the world’s leading news agencies — said their journalists on the ground “are increasingly unable to feed themselves and their families”.

The news outlets added: “Journalists endure many deprivations and hardships in warzones. We are deeply alarmed that the threat of starvation is now one of them.”

Separately, Al Jazeera Media Network said in a statement that journalists on the ground “now find themselves fighting for their own survival” due to mass starvation.

Harrowing accounts
AFP and Al Jazeera journalists shared harrowing accounts of conditions on the ground.

One AFP photographer was quoted as saying, “I no longer have the strength to work for the media. My body is thin and I can’t work anymore.”

Al Jazeera Arabic’s Gaza correspondent said he was “drowning in hunger”.

In an interview with NPR, AFP global news director Phil Chetwynd said that the news agency had been working to evacuate its remaining contributors from Gaza, which requires Israeli permission.

The dramatic warnings come as more than 100 international humanitarian organisations said that mass starvation in Gaza was now threatening the lives of humanitarian aid workers themselves, while the civilian death toll continues to rise.

[embedded content]
Gaza under siege — a journalist reports on daily survival Video: Al Jazeera

Meanwhile, Israel continues to refuse to allow international reporters into Gaza to report and cover the war and humanitarian situation independently, obstructing the free flow of news and limiting coverage of the humanitarian crisis.

The ongoing conflict has taken a devastating toll on journalists and media outlets in Gaza.

Highest media death toll
Since October 2023, at least 186 journalists and media workers have been killed in Gaza — Al Jazeera puts the figure as at least 230 — the West Bank, Israel, and Lebanon, according to monitoring by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).

This is the largest number of journalists to be killed in any armed conflict in this span of time.

Independent investigations such as those conducted by Forbidden Stories have found more than a dozen cases in which journalists were intentionally targeted and killed by the Israeli military — which constitutes a war crime under international law.

IPI has made repeated calls, in conjunction with its partners, urging the international community to take immediate measures to protect journalists and allow unimpeded access to the strip from international media.

Today, IPI has strongly and urgently reiterated these calls, as humanitarian conditions in Gaza rapidly deteriorate and as journalists and other civilians face man-made starvation.

The international community must use all diplomatic means at its disposal to pressure Israel to ensure the safe flow of food aid to journalists and other civilians, said IPI in a statement.

“The response by the international community in this critical moment could be the difference between life and death. There is no more time to lose,” IPI said.

Jamie Wiseman is a journalist of the Vienna-based International Press Institute.

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 26, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Gaza: Global community must act amid reports of starvation of journalists, says IPI

By Jamie Wiseman

The International Press Institute (IPI) has joined calls for urgent action to halt the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Gaza as global news organisations warn that their journalists there are experiencing starvation.

Israel must immediately allow life-saving food aid to reach journalists and other civilians in Gaza, IPI said in a statement today.

“The international community must also put effective pressure on Israel to allow all journalists to enter and exit the territory and to document the ongoing catastrophe,”it said.

In an unprecedented joint statement this week, the Associated Press, Agence France-Presse, BBC News, and Reuters — four of the world’s leading news agencies — said their journalists on the ground “are increasingly unable to feed themselves and their families”.

The news outlets added: “Journalists endure many deprivations and hardships in warzones. We are deeply alarmed that the threat of starvation is now one of them.”

Separately, Al Jazeera Media Network said in a statement that journalists on the ground “now find themselves fighting for their own survival” due to mass starvation.

Harrowing accounts
AFP and Al Jazeera journalists shared harrowing accounts of conditions on the ground.

One AFP photographer was quoted as saying, “I no longer have the strength to work for the media. My body is thin and I can’t work anymore.”

Al Jazeera Arabic’s Gaza correspondent said he was “drowning in hunger”.

In an interview with NPR, AFP global news director Phil Chetwynd said that the news agency had been working to evacuate its remaining contributors from Gaza, which requires Israeli permission.

The dramatic warnings come as more than 100 international humanitarian organisations said that mass starvation in Gaza was now threatening the lives of humanitarian aid workers themselves, while the civilian death toll continues to rise.

[embedded content]
Gaza under siege — a journalist reports on daily survival Video: Al Jazeera

Meanwhile, Israel continues to refuse to allow international reporters into Gaza to report and cover the war and humanitarian situation independently, obstructing the free flow of news and limiting coverage of the humanitarian crisis.

The ongoing conflict has taken a devastating toll on journalists and media outlets in Gaza.

Highest media death toll
Since October 2023, at least 186 journalists and media workers have been killed in Gaza — Al Jazeera puts the figure as at least 230 — the West Bank, Israel, and Lebanon, according to monitoring by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).

This is the largest number of journalists to be killed in any armed conflict in this span of time.

Independent investigations such as those conducted by Forbidden Stories have found more than a dozen cases in which journalists were intentionally targeted and killed by the Israeli military — which constitutes a war crime under international law.

IPI has made repeated calls, in conjunction with its partners, urging the international community to take immediate measures to protect journalists and allow unimpeded access to the strip from international media.

Today, IPI has strongly and urgently reiterated these calls, as humanitarian conditions in Gaza rapidly deteriorate and as journalists and other civilians face man-made starvation.

The international community must use all diplomatic means at its disposal to pressure Israel to ensure the safe flow of food aid to journalists and other civilians, said IPI in a statement.

“The response by the international community in this critical moment could be the difference between life and death. There is no more time to lose,” IPI said.

Jamie Wiseman is a journalist of the Vienna-based International Press Institute.

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Schatz Introduce New Legislation to Improve Wages, Operations Transparency for Rideshare Drivers, Delivery App Workers
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

July 25, 2025
WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, on Thursday joined U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) in introducing the Empowering App-Based Workers Act, new legislation to improve transparency on how app companies operate and help boost wages for rideshare drivers and delivery app workers.

“App-based companies purposely keep gig workers in the dark so they can grossly underpay them while also price gouging consumers,” said Murphy. “Our bill forces these companies to be transparent with workers about what they will be paid and establishes wage minimums so they can’t exploit loopholes to mislead and steal from their workers.”

“Every day rideshare drivers and delivery app workers work long hours and travel many miles to make a living, often without knowing how much money they’ll make. Our bill would shed some light on how apps determine work assignments and pay, ensuring workers are treated and paid fairly,” said Schatz.

Millions of workers across multiple industries, report to work by turning on an app. These platforms collect data from both workers and consumers to shape working conditions, evaluate workers, and make work-related decisions, including decisions on how much to pay a worker, which workers get which assignments, and whether, when, or for how long a worker will be suspended or ‘deactivated.’ All this is done with systems that are not transparent to workers, consumers, or regulators, creating information imbalances that mask wage theft, discrimination, and price-gouging.

The Empowering App-Based Workers Act would create a level playing field for workers managed by digital labor platforms by:

Requiring disclosure of electronic monitoring and automated decision systems uses, including how they are used to determine pay and other work decisions;

Providing itemized receipts to workers and consumers after every work assignment;

Providing workers receive weekly pay statements with relevant information on their compensation;

Ensuring rideshare workers receive at least 75 percent of the amount paid by consumers; and

Stopping platforms from using interfaces that contain unfair or deceptive information on compensation.

The bill is supported by the ACE Collaborative of New Virginia Majority, Action Center on Race and Economy, AFL-CIO, Athena, Center for Law and Social Policy, Color Of Change, Colorado Independent Drivers United, Connecticut Drivers United, Coworker, Data & Society, Drivers Union Washington/Teamsters Local 117, Economic Policy Institute, Fair Work Center, Groundwork Collaborative, Hawai‘i Workers Center, Los Deliveristas Unidos, Minnesota Uber/Lyft Drivers Association, Make the Road New Jersey, National Women’s Law Center, National Employment Law Project (NELP), New York Taxi Workers Alliance, New School Center for NYC Public Affairs, NLAN/GLOW, National Partnership for Women & Families, National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, Open Markets Institute, Portland Drivers United, Rideshare Drivers United, PowerSwitch Action, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Tech Equity Collaborative, Tennessee Drivers Union, The People’s Lobby, Towards Justice, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, and Working Washington.

Full text of the bill is available HERE.
MIL OSI USA News –
July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI China: 9th CIIE launches exhibitor recruitment drive

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

SHANGHAI, July 25 — With just over 100 days to go until the eighth China International Import Expo (CIIE), recruitment for the ninth CIIE was officially launched in Shanghai on Friday, and over 40 foreign companies have already signed up to exhibit, according to the event organizer.

The ninth CIIE has already secured a contracted exhibition space of 30,000 square meters. Over 20 companies, including L’Oréal, GE Healthcare, Honeywell, Jaguar Land Rover and Lesaffre, were among the first to commit to a ninth consecutive year of participation.

Vincent Boinay, president of L’Oréal North Asia Zone and chief executive officer (CEO) of L’Oréal China, said during a recruitment launch ceremony on Friday that thanks to the growing “spillover effect” of the CIIE, the company has launched more than 10 new brands, dozens of beauty tech products and hundreds of new items in China over the past seven years, accelerating the entry of international products into the Chinese market.

The expo has not only witnessed but also boosted the development of companies, said Sheng Wenhao, CEO of Theland Asia Pacific Region. Through the CIIE, Theland has signed deals with dozens of professional buyers, covering more than 5,000 offline stores across 25 provincial-level regions in China.

“Participating in the CIIE means embracing opportunities for us. Over the past seven years, we have signed more than 10 strategic cooperation agreements for fruit imports, with a contract value of up to 200 million U.S. dollars secured at the seventh CIIE last year,” said Guo Min, Joy Wing Mau Chile Spa’s deputy marketing director in China.

MIL OSI China News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Announces Bill to Reopen Lawful Pathway to Legalization, Countering Trump’s Cruel Mass Deportation Agenda
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

Padilla Announces Bill to Reopen Lawful Pathway to Legalization, Countering Trump’s Cruel Mass Deportation Agenda
WATCH: Padilla pushes back against indiscriminate ICE raids and the militarization of Los Angeles

A one-pager on the Registry bill is available here.

LOS ANGELES, CA — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, hosted a press conference in Los Angeles alongside immigration advocates, impacted families, and community leaders to announce legislation to expand a pathway to lawful permanent residency for millions of long-term U.S. residents. Amid the Trump Administration’s indiscriminate immigration enforcement in California and across the country, the bill would offer a forward-looking, strategic update to our outdated immigration system to counter President Trump and Stephen Miller’s demonization of undocumented immigrant communities.

Padilla’s Renewing Immigration Provisions of the Immigration Act of 1929 would update the existing Registry statute of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) by adjusting the Registry date to meet current circumstances so that an immigrant may qualify to apply for lawful permanent resident status if they have lived in the U.S. continuously for at least seven years before filing an application, do not have a criminal record, and meet all other current eligibility requirements to receive a green card.

This overdue update would provide a much-needed pathway to a green card for more than 8 million people, including Dreamers, forcibly displaced citizens (TPS holders), children of long-term visa holders, essential workers, and highly skilled members of our workforce, such as H-1B visa holders, who have been waiting years for a green card to become available. According to 2023 FWD.us estimates, if the undocumented individuals covered in this bill eventually became citizens, they would contribute approximately $121 billion to the U.S. economy annually and about $35 billion in taxes.

Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, is co-leading the legislation in the Senate, and Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.-18) is leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

“Americans know there’s a better path forward than the Trump Administration’s cruel scapegoating of hardworking immigrants and fearmongering of California communities,” said Senator Padilla. “We believe that if you’ve lived here for over seven years, paid taxes for years, contributed to your community for years, and you don’t have a criminal record, then you deserve a pathway to legalization. My bill is a commonsense fix to our outdated immigration system and the same kind of reform that Republican President Ronald Reagan embraced four decades ago, calling it a ‘matter of basic fairness.’ This legislation creates no new bureaucracies or agencies — it’s simply an update to a longstanding pathway to reflect today’s reality and provide a fair shot at the American Dream for millions of Dreamers, TPS holders, and highly skilled workers who have faced delays and uncertainty for decades.”

“Recently, we have seen devastating arrests of immigrants who have spent their lives in this country, building communities and families in the United States, without any due process. Most have never committed any crime. Protections for these hard-working individuals are long overdue. It’s common sense that immigrants who pose no safety threat and contribute to our country should be able to call America home with certainty; additionally, it’s also common sense that the small percentage of undocumented immigrants who do commit violent crimes should be removed. Expanding the registry pathway to citizenship is a practical solution to provide stability to immigrants who have worked and contributed to our country for years. It’s part of the solution, and I look forward to working to pass this bill into law,” said U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Durbin, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

“When Donald Trump ran for president, he pledged to deport violent criminals. Instead, masked, heavily-armed agents, often refusing to identify themselves, are aggressively, sometimes violently, targeting day laborers, busboys, farmworkers, and some of the hardest-working people in this country. It’s outrageous and deserves the condemnation of every Member of Congress. We need to control our borders, but we also need a straightforward reform solution for those who have resided peacefully for a long time in America,” said Representative Lofgren. “My colleagues and I are reintroducing our registry legislation to simply update a historically-bipartisan provision that provides lawful permanent resident status to vetted immigrants who have been a part of our communities for years. Providing stability to our communities and our workforces – versus terrorizing them – will make our country stronger.”

The bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).

Section 249 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, also known as the Registry, gives the Secretary of Homeland Security the discretion to register certain individuals for lawful permanent resident status if they have been in the country since a certain date and meet other requirements. Section 249 was first codified in 1929 and Congress has modified it four times, most recently during the Reagan Administration in 1986. No changes have been made since 1986, and the cutoff date for eligibility remains January 1, 1972 — more than 50 years ago.

Specifically, the Renewing Immigration Provisions of the Immigration Act of 1929 would:

Amend the existing Registry statute by moving the eligibility cutoff date so that an immigrant may qualify for lawful permanent resident status if they have been in the U.S. for at least seven years before filing an application under Registry.

Preempt the need for further congressional action by making the eligibility cutoff rolling, instead of tying it to a specific date, as it is now.

Padilla continues to lead the charge to pass commonsense immigration reforms that strengthen communities, protect long-term residents, and unlock America’s economic potential. He was joined today by community members impacted by the Trump Administration’s cruel immigration raids, including Alejandro Barranco — a veteran and the son of Narciso, who was violently detained by masked Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents in Orange County.

“As the son of a hardworking immigrant, I never imagined our family’s story would become national news. Yet the violent and unjust treatment my father endured on June 21st is one that countless others are experiencing across this country. My father, a man who has spent over 30 years working to provide for our family, was beaten and detained by men with no identification—simply for doing the work that makes this country great. This attack wasn’t just on him; it was on every immigrant who has ever sacrificed for the American dream. It’s long overdue for this country’s broken immigration system to be fixed, or more families will continue to be torn apart. I stand with leaders like Senator Padilla to fight for a pathway to citizenship for people like my dad, whose contributions make America stronger,” said Alejandro Barranco.

“I ask the American people: if you trust us to pick your crops, help build your homes, take care of your children and elderly parents, play with sons and daughters in the same sports teams, why won’t you trust us to be part of the American dream? A path to citizenship is the only solution that will protect us and the nation. Only a path to citizenship will allow us to live free in this our home, the United States of America,” said Angelica Salas, Executive Director for Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA).

Senator Padilla is a leading voice in Congress for providing long-term undocumented immigrants with pathways to citizenship or permanent legal residence. As Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and mass deportation assaults intensified in Los Angeles, Padilla marked the 13th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy by urging Congress to take immediate action to deliver permanent protections for millions of families, parents, and individuals who are increasingly at risk amid President Trump’s mass deportation agenda. He also delivered remarks on the Senate floor ahead of the anniversary, pushing for permanent protections for Dreamers rather than the indiscriminate ICE raids stoking fear in Los Angeles communities. Padilla previously introduced the Citizenship for Essential Workers Act, which would create a pathway to citizenship for immigrant essential workers, including Dreamers, as his first bill in Congress.

Senator Padilla has been outspoken in criticizing Trump’s mass deportations and unprecedented militarization and escalation of tensions by deploying National Guard troops and active-duty U.S. Marines to respond to overwhelmingly peaceful protests in Los Angeles. He recently introduced the VISIBLE Act to require immigration enforcement officers to display clearly visible identification during public-facing enforcement actions. He also led the entire Senate Democratic Caucus last month in demanding that President Trump immediately withdraw all military forces from Los Angeles and cease all threats to deploy the National Guard or active-duty service members to American cities. Padilla spoke on the Senate floor following his forcible removal from Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s press conference, where he was thrown to the ground and handcuffed after attempting to ask a question.

Video of Senator Padilla’s opening remarks from today’s press conference can be viewed here and downloaded here. His closing remarks are available to watch here and can be downloaded here.

Additional photos from today’s event can be found here.

A one-pager on the bill is available here.

Full text of the bill is available here.
MIL OSI USA News –
July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: Univest Securities, LLC Announces Closing of $4.2 Million Registered Direct Offering for its Client Garden Stage Limited (NASDAQ: GSIW)

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

New York, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Univest Securities, LLC (“Univest”), a member of FINRA and SIPC, and a full-service investment bank and securities broker-dealer firm based in New York, today announced the closing of a registered direct offering (the “Offering”) for its client Garden Stage Limited (NASDAQ: GSIW) (“GSIW” or the “Company”), a Hong Kong-based financial services provider.

Under the terms of the securities purchase agreement, the Company has agreed to sell to several investors an aggregate of 38,406,345 of the Company’s ordinary shares, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Shares”) (or pre-funded warrants in lieu thereof) at a purchase price of $0.11 per share in the Offering. The purchase price for the pre-funded warrants is identical to the purchase price for Shares, less the exercise price of $0.001 per share.

The aggregate gross proceeds to the Company from this offering were approximately $4.2 million.

Univest Securities, LLC acted as the sole placement agent.

The registered direct offering was made pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form F-3 (File No. 333-283618) previously filed by the Company and declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 10, 2025. A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus describing the terms of the offering were filed with the SEC and are available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained by contacting Univest Securities, LLC at info@univest.us, or by calling +1 (212) 343-8888.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor will there be any sales of such securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. Copies of the prospectus supplement relating to the registered direct offering, together with the accompanying base prospectus, can be obtained at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

About Univest Securities, LLC

Registered with FINRA since 1994, Univest Securities, LLC provides a wide variety of financial services to its institutional and retail clients globally including brokerage and execution services, sales and trading, market making, investment banking and advisory, and wealth management. It strives to provide clients with value-add service and focuses on building long-term relationships with its clients. As a prominent name on Wall Street, Univest has successfully raised over $1.3 billion in capital for issuers across the globe since 2019 and has completed approximately 100 transactions spanning a wide array of investment banking services in various industries, including technology, life sciences, industrial, consumer goods, etc. For more information, please visit: https://www.univest.us/.

About Garden Stage Limited

GSIW, through its Operating Subsidiaries, is a Hong Kong-based financial services provider principally engaged in the provision of (i) placing and underwriting services; (ii) securities dealing and brokerage services; (iii) asset management services; and (iv) investment advisory services. The Company’s operation is carried out through its wholly-owned Operating Subsidiaries: a) I Win Securities Limited, which is licensed to conduct Type 1 (dealing in securities) regulated activities under the SFO in Hong Kong, and b) I Win Asset Management Limited, which is licensed to conduct Type 4 (advising on securities) and Type 9 (asset management) regulated activities under the SFO in Hong Kong. I Win Securities Limited is the Stock Exchange Participant and holds one Stock Exchange Trading Right. I Win Securities Limited is a participant of the HKSCC.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. When the Company uses words such as “may, “will, “intend,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate” or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the uncertainties related to market conditions and the completion of the initial public offering on the anticipated terms or at all, and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the registration statement filed with the SEC. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. Univest Securities LLC and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

For more information, please contact:

Univest Securities, LLC
Edric Guo
Chief Executive Officer
75 Rockefeller Plaza, Suite 18C
New York, NY 10019
Phone: (212) 343-8888
Email: info@univest.us

The MIL Network –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Thailand to consider ceasefire ‘based on relevant conditions on the ground’ – FM

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

BANGKOK, July 25 (Xinhua) — Thailand will consider a ceasefire, but it must be based on the conditions on the ground, the Foreign Ministry said on Friday.

The statement from the Foreign Ministry said the Thai government would like to thank Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for his ceasefire proposal, “which Thailand fully agrees with in principle and will consider.”

However, the ministry noted that Cambodian armed forces continued their “indiscriminate attacks” on Thai territory throughout Friday.

“Any ceasefire must be based on the relevant conditions on the ground. Thailand places the highest priority on the safety of civilians, and Cambodia’s actions at this time demonstrate a lack of good faith and continue to put civilians at risk,” the statement said. The Thai government “has an obligation to fully defend its sovereignty and its citizens,” the Thai Foreign Ministry added.

As of 9:00 p.m. Thursday local time, 14 Thai citizens had been killed and 46 injured in clashes near the Thai-Cambodia border, according to Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health.

Met Meas Phekdey, deputy governor of Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey Province, told Xinhua by telephone that one villager was killed and five others were injured when Thai shelling hit Cambodian territory on Thursday.

Tensions between Thailand and Cambodia escalated after clashes broke out early Thursday, with each side accusing the other of violating international law. –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 –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Thailand imposes martial law in areas bordering Cambodia – Thai Navy

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

BANGKOK, July 25 (Xinhua) — The Thai navy on Friday declared martial law in several areas of the eastern coastal provinces of Chanthaburi and Trat, citing national security concerns along the border with Cambodia.

The Border Defense Command in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces announced the order on Friday evening, which took immediate effect in eight districts in the two provinces.

In a statement, the Thai Navy said the move was necessary to ensure peace and order, protect Thailand’s sovereignty and the lives and property of its citizens.

The Thai Navy said the justification for tightening security was past incursions by Cambodian forces into the kingdom. –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 –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: UN urges restraint as Thailand-Cambodia clashes displace thousands; Security Council meets

Source: United Nations 4

The clashes, which began on 24 July, reportedly involved exchanges of gunfire, artillery shelling and rocket fire, with Thailand having conducted airstrikes inside Cambodian territory.

UN humanitarian officials confirmed civilian casualties, including children.

More than 131,000 people in Thailand and over 4,000 in Cambodia have been displaced, according to relief partners. Temporary shelters, including schools and temples, are overcrowded, and food, shelter and medical assistance are urgently needed.

The United Nations stands ready to support humanitarian efforts if requested, spokesperson Stephanie Tremblay said at a regular briefing in New York.

Protect children at all times

The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) also appealed for “maximum restraint”.

June Kunugi, Regional Director for East Asia and the Pacific – based in Bangkok – urged both countries to protect children and the critical services they depend on, in line with their obligations under international law, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

“Children must be protected at all times and their safety and wellbeing must be prioritised, while schools must remain safe spaces for learning,” she said.

Security Council private meeting

At UN Headquarters in New York, ambassadors convened for an emergency private meeting of the Security Council to discuss the situation.

Representatives of Thailand and Cambodia were said to be in attendance, with Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General for the Asia and the Pacific at the UN Department of Political Affairs (DPPA), briefing.

Private meetings of the Security Council are closed to the public, but considered a formal meeting.

A longstanding dispute

The last major flare-up between the two countries occurred in 2011, when days of border fighting near the historic Preah Vihear temple – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – left multiple casualties on both sides.

Then-Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon had called for an immediate, verifiable ceasefire and urged both countries to resolve their dispute through dialogue, not military means.

That escalation followed a 2008 troop build-up around the 11th-century Hindu temple, which sits on the Cambodian side of the border.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Update 16: Alberta wildfire update (July 25, 3 p.m.)
Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)
Current situation (as of 3 p.m., July 25)
- There are 56 wildfires currently burning across Alberta in the Forest Protection Area, and three mutual aid fires.
  
  12 are classified as out of control, 11 are being held and 33 are under control.
  
  There have been 12 new wildfires since yesterday.
- Since Jan. 1, there have been 840 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area, burning more than 671,000 hectares.
- More than 1,400 Alberta firefighters, contract firefighters and imported firefighters are currently battling wildfires across the province.
- Resources currently being used include heavy equipment, air tankers, helicopters and night vision helicopters.
- Alberta has imported firefighters and support staff from Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Australia and Chile.
- Information about wildfires can be found by visiting the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
Orders and alerts
- Updates on evacuation orders are available on www.alberta.ca/emergency.
- On July 24, The Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council cancelled its evacuation alerts for the communities of Loon Lake, Trout Lake and Peerless Lake.
- On July 24, The Municipal District of Opportunity No. 17 cancelled its evacuation alert for Red Earth Creek.
- On July 22, the Town of Slave Lake and the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124 cancelled the evacuation alert for the town and other residences on the east side of the lake.
- The Municipal District of Opportunity No. 17’s evacuation order for Chipewyan Lake remains in effect.
  
  Reception centre at Lakeview Sports Centre, 102 Opportunity Drive, Wabasca-Desmarais.
- Alberta Emergency Alerts are issued by local authorities and are updated at their discretion. For the best source of information on the status of evacuation orders and alerts, residents are encouraged to follow their local authorities’ preferred communication channels for updates.
- People living in Alberta are encouraged to download the Alberta Emergency Alert mobile app, which immediately pushes all alerts out to subscribers.
Fire bans
- Fire advisories are in place for the Grande Prairie, Lac La Biche, High Level, Slave Lake and Peace River Forest Areas.
  
  Under the advisory, fire permits will only be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  
  Safe campfires are still permitted.
- Please confirm advisories, restrictions or bans for your area at alberta.ca/fire-bans.
- Fire bans outside the Forest Protection Area are the responsibility of municipalities and counties.
- Everyone has a role to play in wildfire prevention. Follow all fire bans and restrictions to avoid new fire starts. If you see smoke or flames in the forest, call 310-FIRE to report it.
- Applying FireSmart principles to homes and property can mitigate the risk of wildfire damage. Removing flammable materials and vegetation around the property and preventing embers from accumulating can help protect your home from wildfires. To learn more, visit FireSmart Alberta.
Air quality
- Visit Wildfire Smoke Information for air quality monitoring information to make informed decisions about outdoor activities to protect your health. While wildfire smoke is affecting air quality in parts of Alberta, the presence of smoke does not necessarily mean there is fire near your community. Find information about the status of active wildfires and wildfire updates at Alberta Wildfire.
Roads and highways
- There are no road closures from wildfires.
- 511 Alberta is the best source of real time information as conditions change on our highways. Follow on X (formerly known as Twitter) @511alberta.
- Alberta highways that are affected by the wildfires will open and close frequently depending on safety and weather conditions. Be patient and respect the staff at the closure/detour sites – they are there with your safety in mind.
Health
- For information about wildfire resources, including mental health, visit Wildfire Resources | Alberta Health Services.
Child care
- Opportunity Childcare in Red Earth Creek has reopened.
- Licensed child-care programs are required to notify Child Care Connect if they close unexpectedly.
- Parents and guardians should reach out to their child-care provider for information on closures.
Justice and court services
- The Red Earth Creek courthouse is closed until further notice.
- Visit the Alberta Courts website for the most current information regarding court scheduling.
Related information
- Active emergency updates
- Alberta Emergency Alerts
- Download the Alberta Emergency Alerts app
- Download the Alberta Wildfire app
- How to prepare for an emergency
- Wildfire smoke information
- Emergency evacuation payments
- Free admission to provincial museums and historic sites
MIL OSI Canada News –
July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Secures Funding for Great Lakes, Michigan’s Water Infrastructure in Appropriations Bill

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

WASHINGTON, DC?– U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped the Senate Appropriations Committee pass the Fiscal Year 2026 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The bipartisan legislation would provide funding for Michigan priorities and high-impact local projects to strengthen water infrastructure, protect our wildlife and environment, and improve access to clean drinking water for Michiganders. As Co-Chair of the Great Lakes Task Force, Peters also advocated and secured funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which plays a critical role in protecting and restoring Great Lakes waterways and habitats. The bill now advances to the full Senate.

“Protecting our Great Lakes and Michiganders’ access to clean drinking water have been some of my top priorities,” said Senator Peters, Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force.“This bipartisan legislation helps us accomplish those things by investing in our state’s water infrastructure, removing dangerous lead pipes, and working to protect folks from exposure to toxic PFAS contamination. The bill also makes sure the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, a historic program that keeps our Great Lakes healthy and vibrant, continues to receive funding to carry out essential cleanup projects in our state.”

The bill includes numerous measures led and supported by Peters, including:

Protecting our Great Lakes, Fisheries, and Environment

Funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative: Peters fought and secured continued funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). The GLRI is the largest investment in the Great Lakes’ health, ecosystem, and water quality. Since the program’s inception in 2010, $4 billion has been used to fund over 8,000 projects to combat the greatest threats to the Great Lakes, including invasive species, harmful algal blooms, and loss of fish and wildlife habitats. During his time in the Senate, Peters has championed the GLRI, and earlier this year led the effort to introduce the?Great Lakes Restoration Act of 2025,?which would reauthorize the program and increase its annual authorized funding levels.

Keeping Invasive Carp Out of the Great Lakes: Invasive carp pose a grave risk to the lasting health of our Great Lakes. That’s why this bill provides funding for the Fish and Wildlife Service’s Aquatic Invasive Species program, which supports Great Lakes Basin-wide efforts to combat aquatic invasive species, including invasive carp. This work helps assess the threats posed by invasive carp to the Great Lakes and supports efforts to detect and respond to new invasive species. The bill also provides funding for the U.S. Geological Survey’s Biological Threats and Invasive Species Research Program which produces essential research, detection methods, and tools to help keep invasive carp out of the Great Lakes. Finally, the bill also provides funding for efforts to monitor, detect, and respond to aquatic nuisance species within the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain Systems.

Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration: The bill protects funding for The Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act, which helps fund critical fish and wildlife projects in the Great Lakes Basin. Funding from this program has helped establish ecosystem management tools, restored wetlands and aquatic habitat, and advanced fish and wildlife monitoring and modeling.

Great Lakes Science Center: Peters secured funding in the bill to support the Great Lakes Science Center, which works to enhance our understanding of the Great Lakes’ complex ecosystem through studies and collaboration with a wide range of partners.

Forest Service: The bill provides robust funding for the Forest Service. These resources will help ensure adequate staffing levels and improve forest restoration and fire risk reduction efforts.

Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF): The bill allocates funding for federal land acquisition and financial assistance to states through the?Great American Outdoors Act. This program is critical for improving recreational access to our federal lands, protecting iconic landscapes, delivering grants to states and local governments to create and protect urban parks and open spaces. It also provides farmers and ranchers with easements to allow them to continue to steward their private lands in the face of development pressures.

Addressing Wildfires: As catastrophic wildfires grow in size and frequency, it is essential that support for, and investments in, the federal firefighting workforce keep pace. As such, this bill fully funds essential wildfire preparedness and suppression efforts by providing $4.25 billion for wildfire suppression, of which $2.85 billion is for the Wildfire Suppression Operations Reserve Fund. The Reserve Fund provides the Forest Service and the Department of the Interior with an assured amount of funding to be used when major fire activity requires expenditures exceeding regular base suppression operations funding. This bill also provides much-needed funding to help prevent a devastating pay cut for the federal firefighting workforce.

Strengthening Michigan’s Water Infrastructure & Ensuring Clean Drinking Water

Addressing PFAS: Michigan communities and residents continue to face severe challenges with toxic PFAS contamination. Michigan is home to a number of military installations where PFAS contamination has been detected, including Camp Grayling and the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda. The bill provides much needed funding for PFAS research and remediation efforts. Peters has led and championed numerous efforts in the Senate to address PFAS. Peters convened the first-ever hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, then convened a field summit in Grand Rapids in November 2018 to shine a light on how local, state and federal governments are coordinating responses to address PFAS contamination. Peters introduced and advanced bipartisan legislation to reduce the spread of PFAS chemicals at commercial airports. Peters’ Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act, which was signed into law in 2022, is working to deploy more existing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding for commercial airports to purchase devices to test their firefighting equipment without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals. In 2022, Peters’ bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty was also signed into law.

Bolstering Lead Abatement Programs: Lead poisoning continues to be a public health challenge in areas with aging infrastructure, causing life-long health impacts particularly among children. Peters helped secure funding for critical programs that support communities seeking to clean up lead contaminated waste sites, replace toxic lead pipes, and minimize exposure in surrounding areas. The bill includes funding for the Lead Testing in Schools Program and Reducing Lead in Drinking Water Program.

Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Funds: The bill restores funding for both the Drinking Water and the Clean Water State Revolving Funds, which the Trump Administration had proposed slashing by nearly 90 percent. The Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds are vital to protecting Michigan’s water resources and rebuilding critical water infrastructure. These projects provide Michigan residents with significant benefits, ranging from reduced exposure to pollution to lead-free drinking water. While the primary focus of the state revolving funds is offering financing solutions for water infrastructure for wastewater, storm water, and drinking water systems, the funds also reduce energy waste and decrease water system rates, improving affordability.

Mitigate PFAS Contamination, Provide Safe Drinking Water for Residents of Grayling Township: The bill provides $3,000,000 to deliver clean, safe drinking through a new municipal water system to residents whose water wells have been contaminated from PFAS migrating off the Grayling Army Airfield and Camp Grayling.

Improve Water Reliability in Grand Blanc: The bill provides $1,000,000 to modernize critical water infrastructure throughout Grand Blanc, reducing inefficiencies and water loss and improving water reliability for residents and businesses.

Strengthen St. Ignace’s Water and Wastewater System: The bill provides $36,000 for St. Ignace to update its system that controls the alarms and communication between water wastewater plants as well as other facility operations.

Upgrade the Aging Freud & Conners Creek Pump Stations: The bill provides $1,000,000 to make improvements to the aging Freud and Conner Creek pump stations.

Improve Wastewater Management in Oakwood: The bill provides $1,000,000 to improve wastewater management in Oakwood, Michigan.

Upgrade Marquette County K.I. Sawyer Wastewater Treatment Plant: The bill provides $1,370,000 to upgrade the disinfection system at the K.I. Sawyer Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Pontiac Drinking Water System Improvements: The bill provides $1,000,000 to improve drinking water quality and reliability for Pontiac residents.

Lead Service Lines Replacement in Redford Charter Township: The bill provides $1,000,000 to replace lead service lines in Redford Charter Township.

Supporting New Drinking Water Well for Village of Bellevue: The bill provides $144,000 to help build a new drinking water well in the Village of Bellevue to ensure continued safe drinking water for the residents and surrounding community.

Protecting and Preserving Public Lands and Cultural Resources

Preservation of the Historic Freer House at Wayne State University: The bill provides $550,000 for Wayne State University to repair and replace damaged and deteriorating parts of the historic Charles Lang Freer House, which is an important part of Detroit’s cultural heritage.

Funding for the National Park Service: The bill includes nearly $3 billion to support National Park Service (NPS) operations. This funding will allow NPS to more effectively manage its 433 national parks, monuments, historical sites and other recreational areas that encompass nearly 84 million acres of land across the United States. Michigan is proud to be home to five National Parks, which draw more than 2.5 million visitors to the state annually.

Supporting the National Heritage Areas Program: Peters helped secure funding for the National Park Service’s Heritage Partnership Program. National Heritage Areas (NHAs) across the country commemorate, conserve, and promote important natural, scenic, historic, and cultural resources, delivering recreational and educational opportunities to visitors, residents, and entire regions. NHAs are key for economic development in their communities. Michigan’s MotorCities NHA alone creates an economic impact every year of nearly $490 million including?5,343 jobs and $40 million in tax revenues.

Protecting Tribal Nations

Tribal Programs: In total, the bill provides $12 billion for Tribal programs across the Department of the Interior and the Indian Health Service, rejecting President Trump’s proposed cuts of nearly $1 billion from Tribal programs.

Indian Health Service (IHS):The bill provides $8 billion in total resources for IHS to maintain critically important health care services and maintain current staffing for doctors, nurses, and health services staff.

Supporting Tribal Self-Governance and Essential Services: The bill provides $1.91 billion, an increase in funding, for the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ operations of Indian programs. This funds essential government services in critical areas like roads and infrastructure, housing improvement, natural resources protection, Tribal courts, economic development, and social services. This funding is essential for Tribal governments exercising self-determination and crucial to upholding the federal government’s trust responsibility.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders: America Must End the Atrocities and Starvation in Gaza

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

BURLINGTON, Vt., July 25 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today released the following statement calling on the United States to act to end Israel’s illegal war in Gaza.

After 21 months of brutal war, the Netanyahu government’s extermination of Gaza is entering a new and terrible phase. America and the world cannot continue to look away. We must reckon with what is being done with our taxpayer money, our weapons and the support of our government.

More than that, we must act to stop it.

After many months of Israel blocking humanitarian aid, children and other vulnerable people are starving to death in increasing numbers. The World Food Programme says that the food crisis has reached “new and astonishing levels of desperation, with a third of the population not eating for multiple days in a row.” Children’s bodies are eating themselves from within, their organs are shutting down. Starving mothers cannot breastfeed their infants, and no formula is available, with little clean water to make it in any case. Hospitals have run out of nutritional treatments, and doctors themselves are fainting from hunger.

When mass death from starvation begins, it is difficult to reverse. Aid groups say Gaza faces a tidal wave of preventable death. This is the direct result of the Israeli government’s policies. From March 2 to May 19, Israel did not allow a single shipment of aid into Gaza — no food, water, fuel or medical supplies for a population of more than 2 million people. Israel has since allowed a trickle of aid to get in, but nowhere near enough to meet the enormous needs of a population starved for so long.

Earlier this week, 28 of our closest allies, including Britain, Japan and numerous European nations, issued a joint statement condemning Israel’s “drip feeding of aid and the inhumane killing of civilians, including children, seeking to meet their most basic needs of water and food.” More than 1,000 Palestinians have been shot down while trying to get food aid over the past two months. Most of these deaths are the result of Israel’s replacement of the established United Nations distribution system with the untested Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, whose few distribution points have become death traps for Palestinian civilians, with near-daily massacres.

This is the reality: Having already killed or wounded 200,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, the extremist Israeli government is using mass starvation to engineer the ethnic cleansing of Gaza. Don’t take my word for it, listen to Israeli minister Amichay Eliyahu, who said this week: “All Gaza will be Jewish… the government is pushing for Gaza being wiped out. Thank God, we are wiping out this evil.”

Despite these war crimes, carried out daily in plain view, the United States has provided more than $22 billion for Israel’s military operations since this war began. In other words, American taxpayer dollars are being used to starve children, bomb civilians and support the cruelty of Netanyahu and his criminal ministers.

Enough is enough. The White House and Congress must immediately act to end this war using the full scope of American influence. No more military aid to the Netanyahu government. History will condemn those who fail to act in the face of this horror.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint Foreign Secretary-Home Secretary statement on Hong Kong announcing new arrest warrants for overseas activists
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Press release

Joint Foreign Secretary-Home Secretary statement on Hong Kong announcing new arrest warrants for overseas activists

The Foreign Secretary and Home Secretary have issued a response after Hong Kong announced new arrest warrants for overseas activists.
The Foreign Secretary and Home Secretary said:

“The Hong Kong Police Force’s issuing of further arrest warrants and bounties on individuals living in the UK is another example of transnational repression. It encourages reckless behaviour on UK soil and damages Hong Kong’s international reputation.

“The UK strongly opposes the National Security Law, which has eroded the rights and freedoms of Hong Kongers. We call on the Chinese and Hong Kong authorities to end the deliberate targeting of opposition voices in the UK and elsewhere.

“The UK is committed to human rights, the rule of law, and the safety of all individuals in the UK. That’s why we have taken further steps to complete the severing of ties between the UK and Hong Kong extradition systems by removing Hong Kong from the Extradition Act 2003.

“This Government will continue to stand with the people of Hong Kong, including those who have made the UK their home. We take the protection of their rights, freedoms, and safety very seriously, and will not tolerate any attempts by foreign Governments to coerce, intimidate, harass, or harm their critics overseas.”

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Published 25 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs signs a book of condolences for the passing of former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

Source: APO

On 18 July 2025, H.E. Mr. Russ Jalichandra, Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, signed the book of condolences for the passing of H.E. Mr. Muhammadu Buhari, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Bangkok. The Vice Minister was received by Mr. Richard Aladetoyinbo, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to Thailand.

The Chargé d’Affaires expressed his sincere gratitude to this kind gesture, which reflects cordial relations between the Thailand and Nigeria. Both sides also took this opportunity to discuss further enhancement of bilateral cooperations between the two countries.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand.

Media files

.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NASA Invites Virtual Guests to SpaceX Crew-11 Mission Launch

Source: NASA

NASA invites the public to participate as virtual guests in the launch of the agency’s SpaceX Crew-11 mission to the International Space Station.
NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Kimiya Yui, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov will launch aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft to the orbiting laboratory. This is the first spaceflight for Cardman and Platonov, the fourth for Fincke, and the second for Yui.
NASA and SpaceX are targeting no earlier than 12:09 p.m. EDT, Thursday, July 31, for launch on the company’s Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
Members of the public can register to attend the launch virtually. Virtual guests will receive curated resources, interactive opportunities, mission updates, and a mission-specific collectible stamp for their virtual guest passport after liftoff.
Discover an exciting new way to collect and share passport stamps. Print one for your virtual guest passport and get an extra one, perfect for sharing or digital collecting. Don’t have a passport yet? Print one from the agency’s website and add Crew-11 to your collection.
For more information about the Crew-11 mission, visit:
https://www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew

MIL OSI USA News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: MicroBitcoin (MBC) Now Listed on Coinstore: The Bitcoin 2.0 Revolution for Micro-Payments & Layer-2 Tokenization

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Singappore, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MicroBitcoin (MBC) Now Listed on Coinstore: The Bitcoin 2.0 Revolution for Micro-Payments & Layer-2 Tokenization

MicroBitcoin (MBC) brings back the original vision of decentralized, peer-to-peer money, supercharged with fast payments, CPU-friendly mining, and advanced token creation tools.

MicroBitcoin (MBC) revives the original vision of decentralized, peer-to-peer money—upgraded with fast transactions, CPU-friendly mining, and powerful token creation tools for real-world use.

As the financial world evolves, MicroBitcoin is paving the way with its “Bitcoin 2.0” architecture. Now officially listed on Coinstore, MBC delivers a network built for micro-transactions, fairness, and practical decentralization—without compromising Satoshi’s ideals.

More than just a currency, MicroBitcoin is a permissionless and open system tailored to support communities often excluded from traditional finance.

Token Overview

● Token name: MicroBitcoin

● Token symbol: MBC

● Total supply: 81.5 billion

What are the utilities of $MBC?

MBC serves as both the fuel and foundation of the MicroBitcoin network, with distinct utility across its Layer-1 and Layer-2 infrastructure:

Transaction Fees for Token Layer:

MBC is required to create and issue tokens on the Layer-2 system, ensuring utility and demand within the ecosystem.

Governance and Protocol Maintenance:

Used for admin-level transactions like banning/unbanning tokens, updating fee addresses, and managing ecosystem rules.

Mining Incentives:

MBC is rewarded to miners securing the network through a CPU-friendly PoW algorithm, reinforcing decentralization.

Fair Distribution with Decay-Based Rewards:

Instead of a halving model, MBC uses a smooth block reward decay system that promotes long-term sustainability and fairer distribution.

Ecosystem Overview

MicroBitcoin (MBC) is more than a Bitcoin fork—it’s a full ecosystem built for usability, fairness, and innovation:

Decentralized, CPU-Friendly Mining:

The Power2B PoW algorithm favors CPUs over ASICs, bringing mining back to everyday users and preserving the “One CPU One VOTE” vision.

Layer-2 Token Layer:

Without requiring hard forks, users can:

– Create custom tokens (fungible, NFTs, sub-tokens)

– Manage ownership with on-chain controls

– Use OP_RETURN-based data embedding for decentralized token tracking

Lightweight, Fast Blockchain:

– 1-minute block time

– 300 KB block size

– Easier full-node synchronization for global accessibility

Governance Built-in:

A protocol-level admin address manages critical Layer-2 actions to ensure security, stability, and adaptability as the ecosystem grows.

Global Utility Focus:

Designed for micro-payments and accessible to users in regions with limited financial infrastructure, MBC is purpose-built for inclusion.

Upcoming Ecosystem Expansions

Satoshi Nakamoto Meme Token

Soon to be launched on MBC’s Token Layer, this meme token will creatively honor Bitcoin’s founder while driving community engagement and social buzz within the ecosystem.

KRW-Based Stablecoin

A Korean Won-pegged stablecoin is in development to enable real-world crypto payments in the Korean market. This will allow MBC users to transact in familiar fiat value, supporting adoption and practical spending.

MBC Official Media

Website | Twitter | Telegram

About Coinstore

Accessibility. Security. Equity.

As a leading global platform for cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, Coinstore seeks to build an ecosystem that grants everyone access to digital assets and blockchain technology. With over 10 million users worldwide, Coinstore aims to become the preferred cryptocurrency trading platform and digital service provider worldwide.

Coinstore Social Media

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Youtube | Tiktok | Telegram Announcement | Telegram Events Announcement

The MIL Network –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI: MicroBitcoin (MBC) Now Listed on Coinstore: The Bitcoin 2.0 Revolution for Micro-Payments & Layer-2 Tokenization

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Singappore, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MicroBitcoin (MBC) Now Listed on Coinstore: The Bitcoin 2.0 Revolution for Micro-Payments & Layer-2 Tokenization

MicroBitcoin (MBC) brings back the original vision of decentralized, peer-to-peer money, supercharged with fast payments, CPU-friendly mining, and advanced token creation tools.

MicroBitcoin (MBC) revives the original vision of decentralized, peer-to-peer money—upgraded with fast transactions, CPU-friendly mining, and powerful token creation tools for real-world use.

As the financial world evolves, MicroBitcoin is paving the way with its “Bitcoin 2.0” architecture. Now officially listed on Coinstore, MBC delivers a network built for micro-transactions, fairness, and practical decentralization—without compromising Satoshi’s ideals.

More than just a currency, MicroBitcoin is a permissionless and open system tailored to support communities often excluded from traditional finance.

Token Overview

● Token name: MicroBitcoin

● Token symbol: MBC

● Total supply: 81.5 billion

What are the utilities of $MBC?

MBC serves as both the fuel and foundation of the MicroBitcoin network, with distinct utility across its Layer-1 and Layer-2 infrastructure:

Transaction Fees for Token Layer:

MBC is required to create and issue tokens on the Layer-2 system, ensuring utility and demand within the ecosystem.

Governance and Protocol Maintenance:

Used for admin-level transactions like banning/unbanning tokens, updating fee addresses, and managing ecosystem rules.

Mining Incentives:

MBC is rewarded to miners securing the network through a CPU-friendly PoW algorithm, reinforcing decentralization.

Fair Distribution with Decay-Based Rewards:

Instead of a halving model, MBC uses a smooth block reward decay system that promotes long-term sustainability and fairer distribution.

Ecosystem Overview

MicroBitcoin (MBC) is more than a Bitcoin fork—it’s a full ecosystem built for usability, fairness, and innovation:

Decentralized, CPU-Friendly Mining:

The Power2B PoW algorithm favors CPUs over ASICs, bringing mining back to everyday users and preserving the “One CPU One VOTE” vision.

Layer-2 Token Layer:

Without requiring hard forks, users can:

– Create custom tokens (fungible, NFTs, sub-tokens)

– Manage ownership with on-chain controls

– Use OP_RETURN-based data embedding for decentralized token tracking

Lightweight, Fast Blockchain:

– 1-minute block time

– 300 KB block size

– Easier full-node synchronization for global accessibility

Governance Built-in:

A protocol-level admin address manages critical Layer-2 actions to ensure security, stability, and adaptability as the ecosystem grows.

Global Utility Focus:

Designed for micro-payments and accessible to users in regions with limited financial infrastructure, MBC is purpose-built for inclusion.

Upcoming Ecosystem Expansions

Satoshi Nakamoto Meme Token

Soon to be launched on MBC’s Token Layer, this meme token will creatively honor Bitcoin’s founder while driving community engagement and social buzz within the ecosystem.

KRW-Based Stablecoin

A Korean Won-pegged stablecoin is in development to enable real-world crypto payments in the Korean market. This will allow MBC users to transact in familiar fiat value, supporting adoption and practical spending.

MBC Official Media

Website | Twitter | Telegram

About Coinstore

Accessibility. Security. Equity.

As a leading global platform for cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, Coinstore seeks to build an ecosystem that grants everyone access to digital assets and blockchain technology. With over 10 million users worldwide, Coinstore aims to become the preferred cryptocurrency trading platform and digital service provider worldwide.

Coinstore Social Media

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Youtube | Tiktok | Telegram Announcement | Telegram Events Announcement

The MIL Network –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: HARSHBARGER: President Trump is Proving Nay Sayers Wrong AGAIN

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

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

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

BACKGROUND:

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

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

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

MIL OSI USA News –

July 26, 2025
PM Modi, Maldivian President Muizzu inaugurate new Defence Ministry building in Male

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(ANI)

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: USS John L. Canley and Royal New Zealand Navy Conduct Talisman Sabre AUV Operations

Source: United States Navy

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

MIL Security OSI –

July 26, 2025

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

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

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

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

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

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

Total:	23	86

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

Accountancy
Designated body	No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today	Cumulative total
Association of Hong Kong Accounting Advisors Limited	0	1 (3 nominees in total)

Sports, performing arts, culture and publication
Designated body	No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today	Cumulative total
Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China	0	1 (1 nominee in total)
Hong Kong Publishing Federation Limited	0	1 (1 nominee in total)

Technology and innovation
Designated body	No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today	Cumulative total
The Greater Bay Area Association of Academicians	1 (1 nominee in total)	1 (1 nominee in total)

Religious
Designated body	No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today	Cumulative total
Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong	0	0
Chinese Muslim Cultural and Fraternal Association	0	1 (1 nominee in total)
The Hong Kong Taoist Association	0	1 (2 nominees in total)

Representatives of associations of Hong Kong residents in the Mainland
Designated body	No. of nomination forms received from designated bodies today	Cumulative total
Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce in China—Guangdong	0	1 (1 nominee in total)

Total:	1 (1 nominee in total)	7 (10 nominees in total)

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

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 26, 2025

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

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: Australia

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: United Nations Senior Leaders united to advance DRR efforts and enhance coordinated support at the country and local levels

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: Republic of Korea

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

The Republic of Korea has developed a comprehensive and multi-tiered approach to managing extreme heat, integrating national policies, institutional frameworks, local government initiatives, and community-based actions.

National frameworks such as the Climate Change Adaptation Plan and the Basic Plan for the Promotion of Climate Change Response guide efforts to address extreme heat as part of broader climate resilience strategies.

The Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA) plays a key role by issuing heatwave warnings and impact-based heatwave forecasts , using an updated alert system based on Daily Maximum Perceived Temperature, which takes humidity into account to better reflect health impacts.

Additionally, the Korean Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), alongside the KMA, published the first Climate Health Impact Assessment Report in March 2022. In this report, published every five years, heat-related deaths and illnesses are identified as key health indicators to be monitored.

Collaboration among key institutions enables a coordinated response to heat risks across sectors-including health, industry, livestock, agriculture, and aquaculture-each managed by distinct governmental bodies, and consolidated guidelines have been given. Healthcare preparedness has been strengthened with the publication of the Climate Health Impact Assessment Report, which monitors heat-related illnesses and deaths. Hospitals and healthcare centres, particularly those with emergency services, have improved their capacity to manage heat-related conditions. Additionally, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, Republic of Korea, has called for meetings with other governmental institutions across different sectors.

Local governments, especially in urban areas like Seoul, lead heat mitigation efforts through urban cooling strategies, public awareness campaigns, and the expansion of green spaces.

Initiatives include installing green roofs, promoting public transportation through the Climate Card programme, and constructing cooling stations in public areas to offer relief from heat.

Public-private partnerships have been instrumental in enhancing the country’s resilience to extreme heat. The Seoul Metropolitan Government collaborates with private real estate developers to implement green rooftops across the city, while telecommunications company SK Telecom partners with KMA to send real-time heatwave alerts to millions of subscribers.

Currently, emergency information about heatwaves is being provided through the cell broadcast service in Korea. Hyundai Motor Company collaborates with local governments in urban cooling projects, such as installing cooling stations in public areas. These stations provide cool air and water, offering relief to residents and visitors during heatwaves. LG Electronics partners with Seoul National University Hospital to develop and distribute advanced cooling technologies for healthcare facilities, ensuring hospitals are equipped with energy-efficient air conditioning systems that improve patient care during extreme heat periods. These examples demonstrate the impact of leveraging resources and expertise to enhance resilience to extreme heat.

On the international stage, the Republic of Korea partners with organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) Asia-Pacific Centre for Environment and Health, the Green Climate Fund, and the International Vaccine Institute-all located in the country-to advance knowledge and technical capacity for climate resilience. These collaborations contribute to their leadership in responding to extreme heat.

Through its coordinated approach involving national agencies, local governments, public-private partnerships, and international collaboration, the Republic of Korea has strengthened its ability to manage extreme heat. Key achievements include the updated heatwave alert system, localized urban cooling projects, and strengthened healthcare preparedness, positioning the country as a regional leader in climate adaptation.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Country heat policy review: India

Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

India has implemented significant governance structures to address extreme heat, with a focus on early warning systems, public health management, and adaptation strategies.

India’s efforts have resulted in a reduction of heat-related illnesses and mortality, particularly in urban areas, where lower- income populations are especially vulnerable. Governance is coordinated at multiple levels, involving national, state, and local governments.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) plays a central role in developing heat action plans (HAPs) and early warning systems, collaborating with state-level and district- level disaster management authorities. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) provides a five-day probabilistic heat early warning system, along with daily and seasonal forecasts. These warnings help regions prepare for heatwaves and protect vulnerable populations. The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, leads health system capacity-building initiatives to manage heat-related illnesses. State and local governments, particularly in cities like Ahmedabad, implement localized heat action plans tailored to regional needs.

India’s early warning systems are adapted to the country’s diverse climate and linguistic landscape. State-specific approaches, such as translating warnings into local languages, ensure accessibility in urban and rural areas alike. Local governments collaborate with civil society organizations, such as the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and the Indian Institute of Public Health, to develop and implement heat action plans in cities like Ahmedabad and Jodhpur.

India also leverages public-private and nonprofit collaborations. Heat insurance pilots, targeting vulnerable populations like outdoor workers and women in low-income urban areas, have been launched with organizations such as the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) and Mahila Housing Trust.

Although challenges around sustainability remain, these initiatives provide financial protection during extreme heat. Additionally, cooling solutions like the Cool Roofs Initiative, which installs reflective materials on rooftops to reduce indoor temperatures, have been piloted in several states.

India has achieved notable successes in heat management, particularly in Ahmedabad, the first city to implement a heat action plan. Ahmedabad’s HAP has significantly reduced heat- related illnesses and mortality and has served as a model for other regions. The scaling of heat action plans across the country has led to more scientific, evidence-based approaches. Early warning systems have expanded to cover more regions since 2015, providing impact-based warnings nationwide.

Furthermore, multi-sectoral integration-spanning agriculture, water management, utilities, and transportation-reflects India’s comprehensive approach to heat resilience.

India’s innovative and collaborative efforts position the country as a leader in managing extreme heat. While challenges remain, particularly in ensuring the sustainability of heat insurance programmes and recognizing heat as a formal disaster.

India’s focus on scaling its initiatives across states and sectors demonstrates its commitment to building robust heat adaptation strategies.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH ramps up health education on prevention and control measures against Chikungunya fever amid global surge (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

A surge in Chikungunya fever (CF) has been reported in different countries and regions worldwide. The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) said today (July 25) that it will continue to implement a multipronged approach to prevent the spread of CF in Hong Kong and safeguard public health. The CHP will hold two online seminars next week. Doctors will explain the symptoms of CF, how to prevent infection and how to properly use insect repellents. The seminars aim to enhance public understanding of this mosquito-borne disease and encourage active participation in prevention efforts to protect both oneself and others.

“CF is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of female Aedes mosquitoes carrying the CF virus, and is not transmitted from person to person. The recent spike in CF cases in multiple regions worldwide poses a significant risk of imported cases in Hong Kong. When it comes to CF, the saying ‘prevention is better than cure’ is absolutely applicable. Although there is currently no registered vaccine in Hong Kong to prevent CF, avoiding mosquito bites and curbing mosquito breeding can create an effective barrier to prevent the local spread of the disease. To this end, the CHP has increased its public awareness and educational efforts targeting different groups and will continue to work closely with various government departments and stakeholders to enhance preparedness and readiness,” said the Controller of the CHP, Dr Edwin Tsui.

Dr Tsui added that CF can easily lead to large-scale outbreaks in environments with severe mosquito infestations, placing a burden on the healthcare system. While most CF patients have mild symptoms, the elderly, young children and those with underlying illnesses are more likely to develop complications after becoming infected. After recovery, patients may experience long-term joint pain, which can persist for months or even years, causing inconvenience or distress to their daily lives. Therefore, CF should not be taken lightly.

Control measures at boundary control points (BCPs)

The CHP’s Port Health Division steps up publicity and education efforts regarding CF at the BCPs, conducts more frequent inspections to ensure good environmental hygiene and effective implementation of anti-mosquito measures, conducts temperature screening for inbound travellers. Any travellers with fevers or related symptoms will be assessed on health conditions and referred to hospitals for follow up when necessary. The CHP also maintains close liaison with relevant stakeholders such as airlines and the travel industry to provide the latest disease information and health advice in a timely manner.

Reminder to healthcare professionals to report CF cases

Today, the CHP issued another letter to all doctors and hospitals in Hong Kong regarding CF to provide them with the latest epidemiological information and appeal them to watch out for CF-related symptoms among those who return to Hong Kong from outbound travel. If CF cases are detected, they should be immediately referred to hospitals for treatment and reported to the DH in accordance with the established mechanism so that the DH can initiate epidemiological investigations, and implement prevention and control measures.

Measures the public should continue to take

The CHP will hold two online seminars next week to raise public awareness of CF and address related inquiries from the public. Details will be announced later on the CHP’s social media accounts, and the public is welcome to watch. Starting from today, the CHP has also set up mobile promotional booths at multiple locations across Hong Kong (including public markets, community health centres, and shopping malls) to educate the public on how to prevent mosquito-borne diseases. Details can be viewed at www.chp.gov.hk/en/other/events/476.html.

The CHP recommends that the public properly use DEET-containing insect repellents or other effective active ingredients to effectively prevent mosquito bites. The following precautions should be taken when using them:
- read the label instructions carefully first;
- apply right before entering an area with risk of mosquito bites;
- apply on exposed skin and clothing;
- use DEET of up to 30 per cent for pregnant women and up to 10 per cent for children (For children who travel to countries or areas where mosquito-borne diseases are endemic or epidemic and where exposure is likely, those aged 2 months or above can use DEET-containing insect repellents with a DEET concentration of up to 30 per cent);
- apply sunscreen first, then insect repellent;
- reapply only when needed and follow the instructions; and
- in addition to DEET, there are other insect repellents available on the market containing different active ingredients, such as IR3535, picaridin etc. When using any insect repellent, the public should follow the usage instructions and precautions on the product label.
Latest global situation regarding CF

There have been no CF cases in Hong Kong since 2020.

According to the World Health Organization, CF cases have been recorded in more than 110 countries/regions. As of early June this year, over 220 000 cases had been reported in 14 countries/regions worldwide (including the Mainland, Taiwan and Singapore which are popular tourist destinations for Hong Kong citizens). Of these cases, about 80 were fatal. Around one third of the population of La Réunion were currently estimated to be infected with CF, and cases were reported in Europe (including France and Italy).

In July this year, an outbreak of CF occurred in Shunde District of Foshan City, Guangdong Province, triggered by imported cases. As of July 24, there were 3 645 CF confirmed cases in Foshan. The majority of cases (3 317 cases) were in Shunde District; 178 cases in Chancheng District; 141 cases in Nanhai District; six in Sanshui District and three in Gaoming District. All cases were mild, with no severe or fatal cases so far. Regarding Macao, the first and second CF cases this year were recorded on July 18 and 22 respectively. The patients travelled to Shunde and Nanhai respectively during the incubation period and was classified as imported cases.

“Although Aedes aegypti, the primary vector for spreading CF, is not found in Hong Kong, Aedes albopictus is another vector that can transmit CF. Imported cases of CF and dengue fever can lead to local transmission if they are bitten by mosquitoes during the communicable period. Mosquitoes breed quickly during the hot, rainy spring and summer months. Inadequate mosquito control also poses a risk of CF outbreaks. Mosquito control is of paramount importance, including eliminating mosquito breeding sites and avoiding mosquito bites. Members of the public are advised to maintain strict environmental hygiene, mosquito control and personal protective measures both locally and when travelling outside of Hong Kong. Scientific research showed that even asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic infected individuals can transmit the virus to mosquitoes through bites. Members of the public returning from areas affected by CF should apply insect repellent for 14 days upon arrival in Hong Kong. If they feel unwell, they should seek medical advice promptly and provide their travel details to a doctor,” said Dr Tsui.

The public should call 1823 in case of mosquito problems and may visit the following pages for more information: the dengue fever page of the CHP and the Travel Health Service, the Chikungunya fever page of the CHP and the Travel Health Service, the latest Travel Health News, tips for using insect repellents, and the CHP Facebook Page and YouTube Channel.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –
July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs raided two suspected illicit cigarette and alternative smoking product storage centres in San Po Kong (with photo)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Hong Kong Customs shut down two suspected illicit cigarette and alternative smoking product storage centres in San Po Kong yesterday (July 24), seizing a total of about 650 000 suspected illicit cigarettes and about 720 000 suspected alternative smoking products, with a total estimated market value of about $5.2 million. The duty potential of the illicit cigarettes was about $2.15 million. One person involved in the case was arrested.

Customs officers conducted an anti-illicit cigarette operation in San Po Kong yesterday afternoon and intercepted a suspicious man in an industrial building on Luk Hop Street. About 10 000 suspected alternative smoking products were seized from his trolley, and the 20-year-old man, who claimed to be a construction worker, was subsequently arrested. Later, Customs officers escorted the man to two units at the industrial building for a search and further seized about 650 000 suspected illicit cigarettes and about 710 000 suspected alternative smoking products.

After preliminary investigations, Customs believed that the illicit cigarettes and alternative smoking products seized would mainly be used to supply areas in Kowloon East through telephone ordering. The investigation of the case is still ongoing, and the likelihood of further arrests is not ruled out.
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Hong Kong Customs has been mounting a territory-wide enforcement operation codenamed “Thunder” since early July to combat illicit cigarette telephone-ordering activities, including illicit cigarette storage centres, black spots and peddling. Customs will continue its risk assessment and intelligence analysis for interception at source as well as through its multipronged enforcement strategy targeting storage, distribution and peddling to spare no effort in combating illicit cigarette activities.

Customs stresses that it is an offence to buy or sell illicit cigarettes. Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

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

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 26, 2025
PM Modi, President Muizzu release commemorative stamps to mark 60 years of diplomatic ties

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on Friday released commemorative stamps celebrating the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives.

Reflecting the long-standing ties between the two nations, the commemorative stamps feature the Indian boat Uru- a large wooden dhow handcrafted in the historic boatyards of Beypore, Kerala-and the traditional Maldivian fishing boat Vadhu Dhoni, as per a release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

These traditional vessels have been part of Indian Ocean maritime trade for centuries. The Vadhu Dhoni, in particular, is still used for reef and coastal fishing in the Maldives and highlights the country’s rich maritime heritage and its deep connection with ocean life.

India was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the Maldives following its independence in 1965. The release of the stamps serves as a tribute to the historical and cultural bonds that continue to strengthen bilateral relations, the PMO noted.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Commemorating a very cherished friendship! President Muizzu and I released a stamp to mark 60 years of India-Maldives friendship. Our ties are getting stronger with the passage of time and are benefitting the people of our nations.”

PM Modi is currently on a two-day visit to the Maldives at the invitation of President Muizzu. During the visit, he held bilateral talks and announced several agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation in areas such as trade, agriculture, health, and social welfare-supporting the island nation’s development goals.

Earlier in the day, the two leaders jointly inaugurated the state-of-the-art Ministry of Defence (MoD) building in Male.

Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the 11-storey building represents the strong and longstanding defence and security partnership between the two nations. Constructed with financial assistance from India, the new MoD facility is expected to significantly enhance the capabilities of Maldives’ defence and law enforcement institutions, according to the PMO.

Prime Minister Modi was welcomed by enthusiastic crowds at the venue, who chanted “Narendra Modi Zindabad” and held banners that read: “Honouring Enduring Partnership – Welcome, Prime Minister Modi.”

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

PM Modi described the inauguration as another testament to the robust cooperation between India and the Maldives.

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

— ANI

July 26, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman David Scott Calls on Bureau of Indian Affairs to Reconsider Recognition for Georgia’s Native American Tribes

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Scott (GA-13)

Read Letter PDF

WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, Congressman David Scott (GA-13), wrote a letter to Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Assistant Secretary, Scott Davis, and Department of the Interior Secretary, Doug Burgum, urging the department reconsider a decision to deny federal recognition for Georgia’s Tribe of Eastern Cherokee and Lower Muscogee Creek Tribe. The letter further calls on the BIA to reexamine its rigid criteria for federal recognition which often overlooks the historical disruptions and forced assimilation that fractured many tribal communities.

“Georgia’s Native American communities have been a vital part of our state’s history for well over 1,000 years,” said Congressman David Scott. “Despite their undeniable legacy and obtaining state recognition from the General Assembly, the Georgia Tribe of Eastern Cherokee and Lower Muskogee Creek Tribe continue to face systemic barriers to gaining federal recognition. These barriers are rooted in centuries of marginalization and a refusal by the Bureau of Indian Affairs to recognize how some tribes were forced to hide their ancestry in order to remain in their homelands. It’s time for the BIA to correct this historical injustice while ensuring future petitions are reviewed with greater transparency, respect, and cultural understanding.”

“I commend Congressman David Scott for championing the voices of Georgia’s Native communities and calling for a fair review of federal acknowledgment for the Georgia Tribe of Eastern Cherokee and the Lower Muskogee Creek Tribe—two tribes already recognized by the state of Georgia,” said Chairman Nealie McCormick. “His support brings vital attention to these communities, which have preserved their heritage, culture, and identity despite generations of hardship. Acknowledgment at the federal level is a meaningful step toward justice, fairness, and greater opportunity for these tribes.”

“I’m thrilled at the prospect of having our State-Recognized Tribes be reconsidered for Federal Recognition,” said Council Chair Bennett. “It is my opinion that the Georgia Tribe of Eastern Cherokee and the Lower Muscogee Creek have endured almost two centuries of abuse at the hand of the Federal Government over the events that took place in Georgia in the 1830s. Georgia passed laws that made it impossible to remain in the State if you admitted heritage. We have kept our Tribes together, we have maintained our identity, and we have suffered greatly in many ways because of it. There is a massive amount of history in the State of Georgia, which we have, in many instances, held onto by a thread due to a lack of monetary means. It is our hope that we will be able to maintain our Heritage and our Traditions by means of Federal Recognition.”

The federal recognition process for Native American tribes is critical for signaling that the U.S. government acknowledges a tribe as a sovereign entity with the right to self-govern. Federal recognition establishes a government-to-government relationship, similar to how the U.S. interacts with foreign nations. It allows tribes to access funding for Indian Health services, housing, education, jobs and economic development, and vital cultural preservation.

The BIA’s decision to deny federal recognition to the Georgia Tribe of Eastern Cherokee and Lower Muscogee Creek Tribe have imposed real-world consequences for these tribes. Decades of denials have relied on a strict administrative criterion that failed to consider the disruptions of traditional governance and loss of records caused by generations of forced assimilation and exclusion.

Read Letter HERE.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

July 26, 2025

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