NewzIntel.com

Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Urgent: China, Egypt should continuously simplify trade and investment procedures: Chinese Premier

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CAIRO, July 9 (Xinhua) — China and Egypt should continuously simplify bilateral trade and investment procedures, strengthen industrial connectivity and market connectivity, and strive for higher-level mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in Cairo on Wednesday.

    Li Qiang made the remarks during a meeting with Hanafi Ali El-Gebali, the speaker of Egypt’s lower house of parliament. The Chinese premier is on an official visit to Egypt at the invitation of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: US President issues tariff notices to 6 more countries

    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

    NEW YORK, July 9 (Xinhua) — U.S. President Donald Trump sent letters to leaders of six more countries on Wednesday morning, notifying them that new tariffs will be imposed on goods imported into the United States from those countries starting Aug. 1.

    D. Trump published the corresponding notices on his own social network Truth Social. The letters were addressed to the Philippines, Brunei, Moldova, Algeria, Iraq and Libya. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Valley in Tajikistan officially recognized as “globally important agricultural heritage system”

    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

    Almaty, July 9 (Xinhua) — The Almosi Valley in Tajikistan’s Gissar district has been officially recognized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) as a “globally important agricultural heritage system,” the Khovar news agency reported on Wednesday, citing the press center of the FAO office in Tajikistan.

    The corresponding decision was made at the meeting of the FAO scientific advisory group held in Rome on July 7-8. The Almosi Valley has become the first and only site in Central Asia with the status of “globally important agricultural heritage system”.

    “Until now, only 12 sites in the Europe and Central Asia region have been included in FAO’s Agricultural Heritage List… Now, the Almosi Valley in Tajikistan has joined them, becoming a bridge between Central Asia’s rich natural and cultural heritage and the international community,” said Kaveh Zahedi, Director of FAO’s Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment Division. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Yemen deserves hope and dignity, Security Council hears

    Source: United Nations 2

    For over a decade, Yemen has endured conflict between Houthi rebels and government forces. Millions of lives and livelihoods remain at risk, and the conflict shows no sign of ending.

    “The appetite for a military escalation remains,” Hans Grundberg, UN Special Envoy for Yemen, told ambassadors.

    While violence remains an immediate threat, he noted that the economy has now become the “most active frontline” of the conflict: the national currency in free fall and purchasing power rapidly declining, poverty is a daily threat.

    “The little money people do have in their pockets is either falling in value or literally falling apart,” he said.

    Currently, 17 million people face food insecurity – a number that could rise to 18 million by September without swift and expanded humanitarian aid.  More than one million children under the age of five are suffering from life-threatening malnutrition, putting them at risk of permanent physical and cognitive harm.

    “We haven’t seen this level of deprivation since before the UN-brokered truce in early 2022,” said Tom Fletcher, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs.

    Regional instability deepens the crisis

    Broader instability in the Middle East has further worsened Yemen’s situation, Mr. Grundberg said, pointing to recent attacks by Ansar Allah (as the Houthi rebels are formally called) on commercial ships in the Red Sea and retaliatory strikes by Israel on key Yemeni infrastructure, including ports and a power station.

    “Yemen must not be drawn deeper into the regional crisis that threatens to unravel the already extremely fragile situation in the country. The stakes for Yemen are simply too high,” he said.

    Nevertheless, he noted that the ceasefire between Iran and Israel did spark hope that momentum for negotiations in Yemen might resume.

    Still, he stressed that Yemen’s peace process must solely depend on regional dynamics.

    “Yemen must advance regardless, moving from simply managing shocks and volatility to developing practical steps that lay the groundwork for lasting solutions,” he said.

    Negotiations must prevail

    Without meaningful peace negotiations, Yemen’s humanitarian crisis will only deepen, Mr. Grundberg warned.

    “A military solution remains a dangerous solution that risks deepening Yemen’s suffering,” he said.

    He highlighted recent progress in Taiz governorate, where both parties agreed to jointly manage water supplies – a move that will provide safe drinking water to over 600,000 people.

    This agreement also promotes sustainable water access, reducing reliance on humanitarian aid.

    “While negotiations may not be easy, they offer the best hope for addressing, in a sustainable and long-term manner, the complexity of the conflict,” Mr. Grundberg said.

    Call for international support

    Mr. Grundberg called on the Security Council to continue prioritizing Yemen.

    He also reiterated UN calls for all detained humanitarians, including UN staff, and called on donors to ensure sufficient funding to sustain aid organizations on the ground.

    “Yemen’s future depends on our collective resolve to shield it from further suffering and to give its people the hope and dignity they so deeply deserve,” Mr. Grundberg said.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur Statement on Trump Administration Resumption of Military Aid to Ukraine

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Toledo, Ohio — Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Ukraine Caucus released the following statement after President Trump announced the resumption of Military Aid to Ukraine.

    “I support the President’s recent announcement of renewed critical defensive weapons shipments to Ukraine—including lifesaving air defensive systems. The harmful pause in shipments should have never happened in the first place. Last week’s revelation of the unexpected Department of Defense halt came just days after the single largest Russian barrage against Ukraine in which Putin launched over 500 drones and missiles against its cities and civilian populations.  Russia has only continued to escalate its devastating strikes.

    “US-made air defense systems, including Patriot batteries, are the centerpiece of Ukraine’s defenses against Russian strikes. They save lives every day. There are no parallel defense alternatives for Ukraine if the US stops supplying these vital munitions. By halting these shipments, leaders in the Department of Defense have risked the imminent deaths of many Ukrainian military servicemembers as well as civilians. 

    “Supplying Ukraine with these weapons ensures increased demand that enables our own defense industrial base to grow so that we can produce the quantities of munitions needed to defend both ourselves and our Allies. Ukraine’s use of these weapons in its defensive war also allows our military to better test and improve these systems to keep American forces safer.

    “As Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Ukraine Caucus, I want to applaud the work of our nearly 100 Caucus Members for their tireless support for Ukraine in Congress. The unified message our Caucus has sent since before the start of this unprovoked war continues to ensure that any pro-Putin actors, even potentially within the Administration, remain isolated and are made known to the public which continues to back Ukraine’s decade long fight to restore its Liberty. 

    “As a Caucus, we call upon the Department of Defense to expeditiously and fully renew the shipments of these munitions and demand full accountability from the Administration as to how this important decision was delayed but now restored.”

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Needless NOAA Budget, Staff Cuts Put Lives at Risk Weather Experts, Lawmakers Warn

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23)

    The 2025 hurricane season’s tragic effects are already being felt as the remnants of Tropical Storm Barry contributed to the deadly flash floods in Texas. Yet Republicans in Congress and President Trump are already degrading NOAA and proposed closing more than a dozen weather and climate facilities, including Miami’s Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory and its Hurricane Research Division.

    Sunrise, FL – Today, U. S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), James E. Clyburn (SC-06), Lois Frankel (FL-22) and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) joined some of the nation’s top weather scientists to issue vocal warnings that gutting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) through staff and funding cuts will cause needless deaths by delaying critical, timely research and severe storm forecasting that our communities count on to be safe.   

    The 2025 hurricane season’s tragic effects are already being felt as the remnants of Tropical Storm Barry contributed to the deadly flash floods in Texas. Yet Republicans in Congress and President Trump are already degrading NOAA and proposed closing more than a dozen weather and climate facilities, including Miami’s Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory and its Hurricane Research Division.

    Cuts to NOAA’s budget will have ripple effects beyond public safety, impacting economic sectors like agriculture and fishing, climate resiliency efforts, and wider disaster preparedness. These hurricane state lawmakers were joined by Dr. Robert Atlas, Director Emeritus of NOAA’s Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorology Laboratory, Dr. Frank Marks, former Director of the Hurricane Research Division of NOAA’s Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorology Laboratory, and James Franklin, the former Branch Chief of the Hurricane Specialist Unit at the National Hurricane Center.

    Click here and here for graphs shared by experts at the press conference.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Local man who trafficked, exploited & raped minor girls sentenced to 50 years in prison

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – A previously convicted sex offender was sentenced in federal court to 600 months in prison. The defendant sexually exploited two minor females and forced one of the girls to engage in commercial sex acts with men at hotels. 

    Anthony Sims, 56, of Columbus, pleaded guilty in March – less than two weeks before he was scheduled to begin trial – to two counts of sexually exploiting a minor and one count of sex trafficking a minor.

    Sims raped a 12-year-old girl 40 to 50 times throughout six months in 2020. Sims provided the girl marijuana and alcohol and talked her into getting high and drinking. At times, during the sexual assaults, Sims would hold down the victim’s arms or hold her in place.  During these encounters, he forced the girl to pose for photos in sexual positions while nude or while wearing lingerie.

    Sims convinced another victim, a 13-year-old girl, to smoke marijuana with him and once she was high, Sims raped her. He routinely held this victim down to facilitate these acts. Sims would also take nude photos of her, and he made her pose with stuffed animals or pillows.

    Sims also took the 13-year-old to various hotels and forced her to have sex with men who paid Sims. The victim was forced to have sex with approximately 50 different men. Sims also sold pornographic photos of the victim.

    At the time of his most recent crimes, Sims was a registered sex offender with two convictions out of Michigan.

    Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Elena Iatarola, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division; Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost’s Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission’s Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI); and Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant announced the sentence imposed on July 8 by U.S. District Judge Edmund A. Sargus, Jr. Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Czerniejewski and Tyler J. Aagard are representing the United States in this case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Donalds Leads Bipartisan, Bicameral Coalition To Bring NASA Headquarters To The Sunshine State

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) has introduced legislation to move NASA Headquarters to the Sunshine State.

    H.R. 2422 – “Consolidating Aerospace Programs Efficiently at Canaveral Act” is the 12th piece of legislation introduced by Congressman Donalds during the 119thCongress and is co-led by Representatives Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), and Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (D-FL). The “CAPE Canaveral Act” has also received the support of Representatives Aaron Bean (R-FL), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Carlos Giménez (R-FL), Brian Mast (R-FL), Cory Mills (R-FL), John Rutherford (R-FL), María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Darren Soto (D-FL), and Daniel Webster (R-FL).

    Specifically, the “CAPE Canaveral Act” requires the transfer of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Headquarters to Brevard County, Florida within one year of enactment and is the U.S. House of Representatives companion bill to Sen. Ashley Moody’s (R-FL) S. 1013 – CAPE Canaveral Act, co-led by Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL). Congressman Donalds released the following statement:

    “The long and storied legacy of human space flight is inextricably linked with Cape Canaveral, Florida. Home to the Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral has been the launch-site of some of the most consequential scientific breakthroughs in human history. It’s time to bring NASA Headquarters to Florida’s aptly-named ‘Space Coast’ and I’m proud to lead my colleagues in this important, bipartisan, and bicameral initiative for our nation.”

    Bill Impact

    • Proximity to Launch Sites: Florida is home to Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, which are primary launch sites for NASA missions. Having the headquarters nearby will streamline operations, reduce travel costs, and improve coordination.
    • Geographical Advantage: Florida’s location near the equator is ideal for rocket launches due to the Earth’s rotational speed. This geographical benefit is a key reason why many space-related facilities are located in the state.
    • Existing Infrastructure: Florida already has a robust aerospace and space exploration ecosystem, with industries and partnerships established around these activities. Moving headquarters there will bolster these connections further.
    • Economic Boost: Relocating NASA headquarters will bring significant economic benefits to Florida, including job creation and increased investment in local communities.
    • Experienced Workforce: Moving NASA headquarters would strengthen its own workforce by cutting the need for experienced aerospace experts to re-locate to Washington D.C. and continue to grow their roots within Florida’s vast space community.

    Exclusive:

    Donalds Unveils Legislation To Move NASA HQ To Florida’s Space Coast
    Julia Manchester – The Hill
    April 2, 2025

    More:

    • Read Text of the Donalds “CAPE Canaveral Act” HERE.
    • See Congress.gov Bill Profile of the Donalds “CAPE Canaveral Act” HERE.
    • See Congress.gov Bill Profile of the Moody Senate Companion Bill HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada announces support for over 9,700 leading researchers and projects nationwide

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Empowering Canada’s brightest minds to solve tomorrow’s challenges

    July 9, 2025 – Vancouver, British Columbia

    Investing in Canadian research is critical to building a strong Canada and driving our success in the 21st century.

    Today, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, and the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health, announced over $1.3 billion in funding to support over 9,700 researchers and research projects across Canada.

    The Government of Canada is committed to building a more innovative, inclusive and resilient future. At a time when global challenges are becoming increasingly complex, this funding will empower the next generation of Canadian researchers—those whose work will drive the scientific and technological breakthroughs that underpin our national response to critical issues such as public health, artificial intelligence, climate change and social equity.

    By supporting the development of life-saving treatments, advancing clean technology and generating critical evidence to shape informed public policy, these investments will not only improve the lives of Canadians but also reaffirm Canada’s standing as a global leader in science and innovation.

    The funding is distributed across the country through:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Free ways to stay entertained with Libraries ACT

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    There are digital entertainment options for all ages and tastes.

    In brief:

    • This article lists free resources available from Libraries ACT.
    • Libraries ACT offers free books, digital resources and more to members.

    You may already know that your Libraries ACT membership allows you to borrow physical books – mot to mention, films, music and magazines.

    However, you may not be aware that it also includes a range of digital resources you can access for free from your home.

    Here’s how to make the most of your library membership.

    Get crafty

    Creativebug is an online platform with thousands of award-winning art and craft video classes.

    Learn to draw, create an accordion book, knit a pair of socks… the choices are endless. There are classes for kids and adults across topics like food and home, jewellery, art and design and paper.

    Take a one-off class on a rainy day or start a 30-day creative challenge.

    On-demand video classes mean you can take it at your own pace and create something special that matches your interest.

    Go exploring

    Check out a mangrove forest in Brazil or venture to an ancient cypress forest in central Florida – all without leaving your front door.

    Your library membership gives you online access to National Geographic magazine (plus National Geographic History, National Geographic Traveler and National Geographic Kids).

    There are more than 1,600 issues to explore. Each has breathtaking photography and high-quality journalism that’s sure to fill you with a sense of wonder.

    The Nat Geo kids section also has videos, pictures and e-books.

    Learn a language

    Libraries ACT members have free access to Mango, a language learning platform with over 70 languages available.

    There’s also LOTE4kids, where children can read books in languages other than English.

    It’s not just international languages, either. Those learning English can access programs that can help with pronunciation, reading skills, writing and grammar.

    There’s also Learn to IELTS to help people who are planning to take the International English Language Testing System.

    Enjoy story time

    If you’ve ever been to Giggle & Wiggle or Story Time at your local library, you’ll know just how popular these programs are with kids.

    Luckily, both are available to watch on demand. Giggle and Wiggle is for children 0-2 years of age and their parents. It includes singing, dancing and sharing rhymes while boosting language development.

    Story Time helps children learn pre-reading, listening and language skills.

    Story Box Library is another free digital resource.

    It’s a place for pre-school through to upper primary-aged children to watch stories read aloud by storytellers.

    Watch a movie or show

    Your membership includes access to Kanopy, a streaming service with over 45,000 films and TV series.

    There’s something for every kind of viewer, including indie films, animation, world cinema, documentaries, classic films, new releases and series from BBC.

    Kanopy Kids is the children’s version, with unlimited plays of enriching, educational and entertaining movies and shows.

    Beamafilm is another streaming platform for movie lovers.

    Libraries ACT members get eight movies or episodes per calendar month. This includes international cinema and Australasian stories.

    Other digital resources include music streaming, newspapers and news, book recommendations, family history databases, games and activities, encyclopedias and much, much more.

    Mystery Box

    Library members can receive a delivery of surprise library books and DVDs straight to their house.

    Staff will hand-pick and pack a variety of books and DVDs based on individual or families’ tastes and needs.

    Couriers will then deliver your Mystery Box to your house and then collect them four weeks later.

    Other resources available for library members include:

    • music streaming
    • newspapers and news
    • book recommendations
    • family history databases
    • games and activities
    • encyclopedias.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7: A Pocket-Sized AI Powerhouse With a New Edge-To-Edge FlexWindow

    Source: Samsung

    Compact in size, bold in capability – Galaxy Z Flip7 redefines the flip phone experience
     
    JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has unveiled the Galaxy Z Flip7, a compact AI phone with multimodal capabilities, powered by a new FlexWindow. Small enough to slip into a pocket, yet powerful enough to deliver the handiest assistance, it melds Galaxy AI with a now edge-to-edge FlexWindow, a flagship level camera and an ultra-compact and iconic design. From intuitive voice AI to the best selfie capabilities, the Galaxy Z Flip7 is an intelligent pocket-sized companion built for seamless interaction and everyday reliability.
     

     
    “Galaxy Z Flip7 is proof that big intelligence can come in a small, pocket-sized form factor,” said TM Roh, President and Acting Head of the Device eXperience (DX) at Samsung Electronics. “By bringing rich multimodal AI capabilities and seamless functionality to the FlexWindow, we’ve created a device that adapts, anticipates and empowers users, unlocking a smarter, more intuitive way to engage with the world.”
     
    Biggest, Brightest FlexWindow Yet
    Content spills elegantly from edge-to-edge on the Galaxy Z Flip7’s stunning FlexWindow display, which brings essentials front and center and makes it easy to type out quick messages, check schedules at a glance and snap high-quality selfies. Galaxy Z Flip’s brightest FlexWindow yet delivers a super-smooth refresh rate, so everything looks vivid and feels fluid – even when outside on a sunny day.
     

     

    The1-inch[1] Super AMOLED FlexWindow is the largest ever on a Galaxy Z Flip, with edge-to-edge usability that enables users to see and do more on the cover screen.
    With 2,600 nits of peak brightness and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate on both the main display and the FlexWindow, Galaxy Z Flip7 enables ultra-fluid scrolling, streaming and gaming. Plus, the FlexWindow gets an upgrade with Vision Booster, enhancing outdoor visibility so users can stay connected wherever they are.[2]
    The main display is a 9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X,[3] built for an ultra-smooth, immersive experience.

     
    Thinnest Yet Durable Galaxy Z Flip
    Galaxy Z Flip7 is crafted for portability and puts powerful performance right in the palm of the user’s hand. With its compact size and sleek silhouette, it slips effortlessly into a small pocket or purse, perfect for whatever the day brings. Whether catching calls during a coffee outing or snapping pictures at the store – no need to worry about the inevitable drops and bumps along the way. It’s also built to last and engineered to handle the rigors of daily use.
     

    Weighing just 188 grams[4] and measuring only 13.7mm when folded, Galaxy Z Flip7 is the slimmest Galaxy Z Flip yet.
    The cover and back are protected by Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2.
    The Armor FlexHinge is thinner than the hinge on the previous generation and features a restructured design and high-strength materials for smoother folds and long-lasting durability.
    A robust Armor Aluminum Frame provides a tough exterior for resilience.[5]

     
    Power That Lasts Longer and Works Smarter
    While the Galaxy Z Flip7 has been slimmed down and refined throughout, it now features a bigger battery and an even bigger display – all in a more compact form. With the largest battery ever in the Galaxy Z Flip series, it delivers enough additional power to watch an extra movie without charging. Users can stream music or listen to podcasts during long commutes, edit photos on the fly and share updates throughout the day without missing a beat.
     

    The 4,300mAh battery[6] is the largest ever on a Galaxy Z Flipdelivering up to 31 hours of video play time on a single charge.[7]
    The Galaxy Z Flip7 is powered by the latest 3nm processor, customised for Galaxy and fit for today’s lifestyle with an even more powerful CPU, GPU and NPU[8] than Galaxy Z Flip6.
    Samsung DeX comes to a Galaxy Z Flip7 for the first time, enabling it to instantly transform into a handy workstation: users can flip it open, connect to a screen and instantly get PC-like tools for enhanced multitasking.

     
    Pocket-Perfect AI
    With FlexWindow enhanced for greater usability and Galaxy AI[9] that is smarter and more intuitive than ever, Galaxy Z Flip7 introduces a new era of convenience and functionality, empowering users to search with their voice, get answers and take action directly on FlexWindow. Powered by the newest One UI 8[10] and Android 16 right out of the box, it delivers true multimodal AI experiences optimised for the Flip’s iconic design, with many tasks now able to be handled right from the cover screen. This intuitive, one-handed experience enhances productivity and introduces even more personalisation options, making the Galaxy Z Flip7 a smart and handy companion, whether a user is traveling around the globe or simply navigating a busy day.
     
    Galaxy Z Flip7 brings a new level of AI-powered personalisation, tailored to users’ style and routine. From curated wallpaper suggestions to emoji, colour and widget customisation, the FlexWindow becomes a dynamic extension of a user’s personality. Whether prepping for travel or matching the  mood, personalisation is effortless and always evolving.
     

     

    Gemini Live[11] is now available directly on the FlexWindow, enabling users to search for information with their voice and complete tasks – hands-free. Users getting ready for an overseas trip can just tell Gemini what they need. It can pull up flight details from Samsung Wallet, set a reminder for when to leave for the airport and even find top-rated restaurants at the user’s destination. Plus, all this information can be stored in Samsung Notes for easy access later. It’s like having a personal assistant, right on the cover screen.
    With camera sharing on Gemini Live, getting real-time help is as easy as pointing the camera. Whether packing for a trip or choosing an outfit, users can simply show Gemini what they’are looking at. Ask questions like, “Which of these outfits is better for the weather in Seoul?” Gemini will respond, just like a helpful friend would.
    Now Bar[12] shows real-time app activity, podcast progress and alerts right on the cover screen, and it’s now integrated with even more third-party apps. A quick glance at the FlexWindow lets users check on the ETA of their rideshare, see what song is playing, peek at the latest football scores, and so much more.
    Now Brief[13] provides even more personalised daily updates including traffic, reminders, calendar events, and fitness summaries. Users can get personalised music and video recommendations based on subscriptions and interests, as well as easily access health and wellness data pulled from Samsung Health and Galaxy Watch.
    The FlexWindow’s clock adapts and stretches to compliment a user’s wallpaper, wrapping the font around faces or objects in the image to keep the time display clear. Whether it’s a close-up selfie or a scenic skyline, the lock screen ensures the clock remains visible without disrupting the image.

     
    A Pocket-Sized Selfie Studio[14]Galaxy Z Flip7 brings flagship-level photography and Samsung’s best selfie camera yet. With Samsung’s advanced ProVisual Engine, it intelligently optimises every scene to deliver crisp, detailed shots in any lighting, without any manual adjustments needed. From playful pet moments to zoomed-in festival shots and glowing sunset portraits, Galaxy Z Flip7 captures stunning results without a tripod or even unfolding the screen.
     

     

    The dual rear camera system includes a 50MP Wide[15] 12MP Ultra-Wide lens, delivering flagship-level clarity in any lighting, whether capturing scenic shots or snapping high-quality selfies directly from the cover screen.
    With Enhanced Nightography, users can capture vivid photos in low-light environments through improved lighting adjustments and the removal of noise and blurred frames.
    10-bit HDR provides richer colour, deeper contrast and more life-like detail in video, no matter the time of day.
    Galaxy Z Flip7 takes selfies to the next level, right from the FlexWindow. Real-Time Filters now lets users preview and perfect FlexCam shots instantly. And with the new Zoom Slider, users can quickly zoom[16] in or out with just a swipe- making it perfect for capturing a full outfit or fitting everyone into the frame for a flawless group selfie.
    With Dual Preview, the photographer and the subject can see the composition live on the FlexWindow, helping users nail the perfect shot on the first go.
    Everyday pet moments become eye-catching shots with Portrait Studio [17] in Photo Assist whether featuring a playful cartoon style, a quirky fisheye look or a polished, professional finish.

     
    Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE
    Bringing the foldable experience to even more users, Samsung also announced Galaxy Z Flip7 FE. Compact when folded and expansive when opened, Galaxy Z Flip7 FE features a 6.7-inch Main Display for an immersive viewing experience. The 50MP FlexCam enables high-quality selfies and video in Flex Mode, letting users capture content hands-free, without even opening the device. Now Brief surfaces helpful updates – including weather, daily schedules and commute alerts – on the cover screen, in a layout optimised for Galaxy Z Flip7 FE’s compact form. Available in Black and White, it delivers a minimalist look that complements its intelligent, foldable design.
     
    Future-Ready Mobile Security
    As mobile experiences grow ever more intelligent and interconnected, Samsung is reinforcing the foundations that protect them – unveiling new protections for on-device AI, expanding cross-device threat detection and enhancing network security with quantum-resistant encryption. One UI 8 brings enhanced privacy to personalised AI experiences with the new Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP).[18] KEEP creates encrypted, app-specific storage environments within the device’s secure storage area, ensuring each app can access only its own sensitive information and nothing more. With One UI 8, Samsung is advancing Knox Matrix to deliver more proactive and user-friendly protection across the Galaxy ecosystem. Furthermore, as part of its ongoing commitment to quantum-safe security, Samsung is integrating post-quantum cryptography into Secure Wi-Fi.[19] This enhancement secures the key exchange process at the core of encrypted connections, helping ensure robust privacy even over public networks.
     
    Availability & Offers
    The Galaxy Z Flip7 will be available for pre-order starting July 9, with general availability beginning July 25. The Galaxy Z Flip7 comes in[20] Blue Shadow, Jetblack,and  Coral-red colour options. The Galaxy Flip7 FE is available in Black or White.
     
    The Galaxy Z Flip7 will be available at these recommended retail prices[21]:

    Galaxy Z Flip7 512GB – R27,499
    Galaxy Z Flip7 256GB – R24,999
    Galaxy Z Flip7 FE 256GB – R21,499
    Galaxy Z Flip7 FE 128GB – R18,499

    For greater peace of mind, Samsung Care+[22] offers comprehensive coverage for accidental damage, repairs, and replacements.
    Get expanded access to Google AI Pro[23] and 2TB of cloud storage for 6 months at no cost with Galaxy Z Flip7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 FE.
     
    For more information about the Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Flip7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 FE, please visit: Samsung Global Newsroom or Samsung.com.
     
    Specifications
     

    ​Galaxy Z Flip7

    Display
    Main Screen
    6.9-inch FHD+*
    Dynamic AMOLED 2X
    120Hz Adaptive refresh rate (1~120Hz)
    2520 x 1080 (21:9)

    *Measured diagonally, Galaxy Z Flip7’s Main Screen size is 6.9-inch in the full rectangle and 6.8-inch accounting for the rounded corners; actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and camera hole.

    Cover Screen
    4.1-inch Super AMOLED*
    1048 x 948, 60/120Hz refresh rate

    *Measured diagonally, Galaxy Z Flip7’s Cover Screen size is 4.1-inch in the full rectangular form; actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and camera hole.

    Dimension & Weight
    Folded
    75.2 x 85.5 x 13.7mm

    *Thickness of Galaxy Z Flip7 when folded measured from top to bottom of the glasses of Galaxy Z Flip7.

    Unfolded
    75.2 x 166.7 x 6.5mm

    *The thickness of Galaxy Z Flip7 when unfolded does not include the frame of the Main Screen.

    Weight
    188g

    Camera
    Front Camera
    10MP Selfie Camera
    F2.2, Pixel size: 1.12μm, FOV: 85˚

    Rear Dual Camera
    12MP Ultra-Wide Camera
    F2.2, Pixel size: 1.12μm, FOV: 123˚

    50MP Wide-angle Camera
    Dual Pixel AF, OIS, F1.8, Pixel size: 1.0μm, FOV: 85˚

    AP
    Exynos2500

    Memory & Storage
    12GB Memory with 512GB internal storage
    12GB Memory with 256GB internal storage

    *Available storage capacity is subject to preloaded software. Memory option may vary by market.

    Battery
    4,300mAh (typical) dual battery

    *Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated capacity is 4174mAh for Galaxy Z Flip7. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.

    Charging
    Wired Charging*: Up to 50% charge in around 30min. with 25W Adapter** and 3A USB-C cable***
    Fast Wireless Charging 2.0****
    Wireless PowerShare*****

    *Wired charging compatible with QC2.0 and AFC. Results from internal Samsung lab tests, conducted with 25W Travel Adapter while it has 0% of power remaining, with all the services, features and screen turned off. Actual charging speed may vary depending on the actual usage, charging conditions and other factors.
    **25W Power Adapter sold separately. Use only Samsung-approved chargers and cables.
    ***Wireless charging compatible with WPC.
    ****Wireless PowerShare is limited to Samsung or other brand smartphones with WPC Qi wireless charging, such as Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip6, Z Fold5, Z Flip5, Galaxy Z Fold4, Z Flip4, S22 series, Z Fold3 5G, Z Flip3 5G, S21 FE 5G, S21 series, Z Fold2, Note20 series, S20 series, Z Flip, Note10 series, S10 series, S9 series, S8 series, S7 series, S6 series, Note9, Note8, Note FE, Note5, and wearables such as Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Buds2, Buds Pro, Buds Live, Watch6, Watch6 Classic, Watch5, Watch5 Pro, Watch4, Watch4 Classic, Watch3, Watch Active2, Watch Active, Gear Sport, Gear S3, Galaxy Watch, and Galaxy Buds. May not work with certain accessories, covers, or other brand devices. It may affect call reception or data services, depending on the user’s network environment.

    Water Resistance
    IP48

    *Based on lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 metres of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use. Rinse residue/dry if wet. Water resistance of device is not permanent and may diminish over time because of normal wear and tear.

    Glass/Metal

    OS

    Network & Connectivity
    5G*, LTE**, Wi-Fi 7***, Bluetooth® v5.4

    *Requires optimal 5G network connection, available in select markets. Users should check with their  carrier for availability and details. Download and streaming speeds may vary based on content provider, server connection and other factors.
     
    **Availability of LTE model varies by market and carrier. Actual speed may vary depending on market, carrier, and user environment.
    ***Wi-Fi 7 network availability may vary by market, network provider and user environment. Requires optimal connection and a Wi-Fi 7 router.

    Sensors
    Capacitive Fingerprint sensor (side), Accelerometer, Barometer, Gyro sensor, Geomagnetic sensor, Hall sensor, Proximity sensor, Light sensor

    Security
    Samsung Knox with Samsung Knox Vault

    SIM Card
    One Nano SIM* and Multi eSIM**

    *SIM card sold separately. Availability may vary depending on market and carrier.
    **eSIM availability may vary depending on software version, region and carrier. Users should check with their carrier to see if their mobile network plan supports eSIM.

    Colours
    Blue Shadow, Jet-Black, Coral-red*

    *Availability of colour may vary by market, region or carrier.
    **Online exclusive colours only available on Samsung.com.

     
     

    ​Galaxy Z Flip7 FE

    Display
    Main Screen
    6.7-inch FHD+*
    Dynamic AMOLED 2X
    2640×1080 (22:9), 120Hz Adaptive refresh rate (1~120Hz)

    *Measured diagonally, Galaxy Z Flip7 FE’s Main Screen size is 6.7-inch in the full rectangle and 6.6-inch accounting for the rounded corners; actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and camera hole.

    Cover Screen
    3.4-inch Super AMOLED*
    720 x 748

    *Measured diagonally, Galaxy Z Flip7 FE’s Cover Screen size is 3.4-inch in the full rectangular form; actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and camera hole.

    Dimension & Weight
    Folded
    71.9 x 85.1 x 14.9mm

    *Thickness of Galaxy Z Flip7 FE when folded measured from top to bottom of the glasses of Galaxy Z Flip7 FE.

    Unfolded
    71.9 x 165.1 x 6.9mm

    *The thickness of Galaxy Z Flip7 FE when unfolded does not include the frame of the Main Screen.

    Weight
    187g

    Camera
    Front Camera
    10MP Selfie Camera
    F2.2, Pixel size: 1.22μm, FOV: 85˚

    Rear Dual Camera
    12MP Ultra-Wide Camera
    F2.2, Pixel size: 1.12μm, FOV: 123˚

    50MP Wide-angle Camera
    Dual Pixel AF, OIS, F1.8, Pixel size: 1.0μm, FOV: 85˚

    AP
    Exynos2400

    Memory & Storage
    8GB Memory with 128GB internal storage
    8GB Memory with 256GB internal storage

    *Available storage capacity is subject to preloaded software. Memory option may vary by market.

    Battery
    4,000mAh (typical) dual battery

    *Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated capacity is 3887mAh for Galaxy Z Flip7 FE. Actual battery life may vary depending on network environment, usage patterns and other factors.

    Charging
    Wired Charging*: Up to 50% charge in around 30min. with 25W Adapter** and 3A USB-C cable***
    Fast Wireless Charging 2.0****
    Wireless PowerShare*****

    *Wired charging compatible with QC2.0 and AFC. Results from internal Samsung lab tests, conducted with 25W Travel Adapter while it has 0% of power remaining, with all the services, features and screen turned off. Actual charging speed may vary depending on the actual usage, charging conditions and other factors.
    **25W Power Adapter sold separately. Use only Samsung-approved chargers and cables.
    ***Wireless charging compatible with WPC.
    ****Wireless PowerShare is limited to Samsung or other brand smartphones with WPC Qi wireless charging, such as Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip6, Z Fold5, Z Flip5, Galaxy Z Fold4, Z Flip4, S22 series, Z Fold3 5G, Z Flip3 5G, S21 FE 5G, S21 series, Z Fold2, Note20 series, S20 series, Z Flip, Note10 series, S10 series, S9 series, S8 series, S7 series, S6 series, Note9, Note8, Note FE, Note5, and wearables such as Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Buds2, Buds Pro, Buds Live, Watch6, Watch6 Classic, Watch5, Watch5 Pro, Watch4, Watch4 Classic, Watch3, Watch Active2, Watch Active, Gear Sport, Gear S3, Galaxy Watch, and Galaxy Buds. May not work with certain accessories, covers, or other brand devices. It may affect call reception or data services, depending on a user’s network environment.

    Water Resistance
    IP48

    *Based on lab test conditions for submersion in up to 1.5 metres of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Not advised for beach or pool use. Rinse residue/dry if wet. Water resistance of device is not permanent and may diminish over time because of normal wear and tear.

    Glass/Metal

    OS

    Network & Connectivity
    5G*, LTE**, Wi-Fi 6E***, Bluetooth® v5.4

    *Requires optimal 5G network connection, available in select markets. Users should check with their carrier for availability and details. Download and streaming speeds may vary based on content provider, server connection and other factors.
     
    **Availability of LTE model varies by market and carrier. Actual speed may vary depending on market, carrier, and user environment.
    ***Wi-Fi 6E network availability may vary by market, network provider and user environment. Requires optimal connection and a Wi-Fi 6E router.

    Sensors
    Capacitive Fingerprint sensor (side), Accelerometer, Barometer, Gyro sensor, Geomagnetic sensor, Hall sensor, Proximity sensor, Light sensor

    Security
    Samsung Knox with Samsung Knox Vault

    SIM Card
    One Nano SIM* and Multi eSIM**

    *SIM card sold separately. Availability may vary depending on market and carrier.
    **eSIM availability may vary depending on software version, region and carrier. Users should check with their carrier to see if their mobile network plan supports eSIM.

    Colours
    Black, White*

    *Availability of colour may vary by market, region or carrier.

     
    [1] Measured diagonally, Galaxy Z Flip7’s Cover Screen size is 4.1” in the full rectangular form; actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and camera hole.
    [2] Galaxy Z Flip7 has a peak brightness of 2600 nits on both the main screen and cover screen. The displays are adaptive, adjusting brightness level automatically based on the environment. In certain illuminance conditions or higher, High Brightness Mode and Vision Booster will be activated.
    [3] Measured diagonally, Galaxy Z Flip7’s Main Screen size is 6.9-inch in the full rectangle and 6.8-inch accounting for the rounded corners; actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and camera hole.
    [4] Weight may vary by country or region.
    [5] Armor Aluminum frame does not include volume and side keys, SIM tray or camera lens barrel.
    [6] Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. Rated capacity is 4174 mAh for Galaxy Z Flip7.
    [7] Based on Samsung internal lab test conditions with pre-release version of given model connected to earphone via Bluetooth under default settings over LTE. Estimated against battery capacity and measured current over battery power consumption during video playback (video file resolution 720p, saved on device). Actual video playback time may vary by network connection, settings, video file format, screen brightness, battery condition and many other factors. Actual battery life varies by network environment, features and apps used, frequency of calls and messages, the number of times charged, and many other factors. Estimated against the average usage profile compiled by UX Connect Research. Independently assessed by UX Connect Research between 2025.06.12-2025.06.20 in US with pre-release versions of SM-F766 under default setting using LTE and 5G Sub6 networks. NOT tested under 5G mmWave Network.
    [8] AP performance improvements shown compared to Galaxy Z Flip6. Actual performance will depend on user environment, conditions and pre-installed software and applications.
    [9] Samsung Account login may be required to use certain AI features. Samsung does not make any promises, assurances or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of the output provided by AI features. Availability of Galaxy AI features may vary depending on the region/country, OS/One UI version, device model and phone carrier.
    [10] Some functional widgets may require a network connection and/or Samsung Account login. Availability of functions supported within the apps may vary by country.
    [11] Gemini is a trademark of Google LLC. Results for illustrative purposes. Gemini Live feature requires internet connection and Google Account login. Service availability may vary by country, language, device model. Features may differ depending on subscription and results may vary. Compatible with certain features and certain accounts. Currently, you can use a personal Google Account that you manage on your own, or a work or school account for which your administrator has enabled access to Gemini. You must be 13 (or the applicable age in your country) or over to use Gemini with a personal or school Google Account and 18 or over to use Gemini with a work account.
    [12] Availability of functions supported within the apps may vary by country. Some functional widgets may require a network connection and/or Samsung Account login.
    [13] Now Brief feature requires Samsung Account login. Service availability may vary by country, language, device model, apps. Some features may require a network connection. Modes and Routines need to be enabled to use Personal Data Engine for context-based Routines suggestions. User needs to consent to access permissions such as photos, videos, audio files, and calendar events. May not display moments depending upon exposure policy. The description of photos provided by moments may not align with the user’s intent. Events schedule notification is supported with calendar apps that utilise Android calendar database and available if Samsung Calendar is installed. Notifications for coupons only available for coupons added to Samsung Wallet with expiration date. To check the Energy Score, the health data tracked from Samsung Galaxy Watch or Samsung Galaxy Ring must be synchronised with the Samsung Health App. The result is for your personal reference only and is not intended for medical purposes.
    [14] Results may vary depending on light condition and/or shooting conditions including multiple subjects, being out of focus or moving subjects.
    [15] 50 MP resolution is available on Galaxy Z Flip7’s rear wide camera only.
    [16] AI Zoom is applied to distances between digital zoom lengths. Accuracy of results is not guaranteed.
    [17] Portrait Studio feature for Photo Assist requires a network connection and Samsung Account login. Editing with Portrait Studio results in a resized photo. A visible watermark is overlaid on the image output upon saving in order to indicate that the image is generated by AI. The accuracy and reliability of the generated output is not guaranteed.
    [18] Available on Galaxy smartphones and tablets with One UI 8 or later.
    [19] Secure Wi-Fi offers free protection of up to 1024MB per month for Android OS 13 or later, and 250MB per month for Android OS 12 or earlier versions. Availability details may vary by market or network provider and connectivity is subject to applicable network environments
    [20] Colour availability may vary depending on market, country or carrier.
    [21] Recommended Retail Prices only. Prices may vary per retailer.
    [22] Terms and conditions apply. Samsung Care+ coverage, service type and promotion details may vary by country/region and deductible (service fee) may apply. To be eligible for Samsung Care+ promotion benefit, registration may be required. For detailed Samsung Care+ information, please visit https://www.samsung.com/samsung-care-plus/.
    [23] The Google AI Pro is a trademark of Google LLC. Google AI Pro and Gemini for Gmail, Doxs, and more are only available for ages 18+. Gemini for Gmail, Docs and more is available in select languages. Rate limits may apply.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung UK Launches 100-Day Return Guarantee for New Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung has announced one of its most compelling customer promises to date. From today, customers who purchase a new Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7 or Z Flip7 FE can take advantage of a 100-day return window[1] – the longest return promotion ever offered on a Galaxy device.
     
    The new ‘buy and try’ promotion means that customers can experience everything that the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 has to offer, including Galaxy AI capabilities, before making a long-term decision about the device.
     
    To be eligible, customers must pre-order or purchase a Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7 or Z Flip7 FE mobile device in store or online between Wednesday 9 July – Tuesday 19 August and register for the promotion within 30 days of purchase at samsungoffers.claims/ukbuyandtry. Customers who purchase and register within this window will also receive a complementary case.
     
    If a customer decides the device is not for them, so long as it remains in good condition the customer can complete a claim to return it between 45 – 100 days after purchase to receive 100% of the purchase price paid.
     
    Annika Bizon, Mobile Experience VP of Product and Marketing, Samsung UK & Ireland, says: “Choosing a new smartphone is a big decision and people need peace of mind that they’re making the right call. Our “buy and try” offer gives people an extra layer of reassurance when making such a significant purchase. The Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 mark a new era of innovation in the smartphone industry, and are the perfect devices to experience all the best features that Galaxy has to offer.”
     
    For more details please visit: https://samsungoffers.claims/ukbuyandtry.
    .
    [1]Purchase a SIM-free Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7 or Z Flip FE from a participating retailer before 19/08/2025 and register for the promotion using link below within 30 days. If dissatisfied, the product may be returned in good condition to Samsung 45-100 days after purchase (or delivery in the case of pre-orders) and Samsung will pay the purchase price (capped at RRP) by bank transfer. Maximum one claim per individual and two per household / business. For full terms and more information see https://samsungoffers.claims/ukbuyandtry.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Deputy Secretary-General, Yemen & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (9 July 2025) | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    – Deputy Secretary-General
    – Yemen
    – Sudan
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – Syria
    – Ethiopia

    DEPUTY SECRETARY-GENERAL
    The Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, is in Yaoundé, Cameroon, where she is attending the International Conference on the Blue Economy in the Gulf of Guinea. She is doing that on behalf of the Secretary-General.
    Speaking at the opening ceremony, she highlighted the vast potential of the Blue Economy in the region, stressing the importance of protecting the ocean, unlocking its economic power, and ensuring maritime security to deliver benefits for people. She also underscored that the Blue Economy is not only central to SDG 14 — which as you all know is Life Below Water — but is also a powerful enabler of the entire 2030 Agenda and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
    During her visit, the Deputy Secretary-General also held bilateral meetings with senior government officials, including the Prime Minister of Cameroon, Joseph Dion Ngute.
    They discussed regional challenges, strengthening the cooperation between Cameroon and the United Nations, and accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals.

    YEMEN
    Hans Grundberg, our Special Envoy for Yemen, briefed the Security Council today and expressed his grave concern at the escalation in the Red Sea with attacks on two commercial ships earlier this week by Ansar Allah that resulted in civilian loss of life and casualties as well as the potential for environmental damage to the Red Sea.
    He said that freedom of navigation in the Red Sea must be safeguarded, and civilian infrastructure must never become a target in conflict. Above all, he warned, Yemen must not be drawn deeper into regional crises that threaten to unravel the already extremely fragile situation in the country.
    Mr. Grundberg reiterated his call for the unconditional and immediate release by Ansar Allah of all those who are arbitrarily detained from the United Nations, national and international NGOs, civil society organizations, as well as diplomatic missions in Yemen.
    For his part, Tom Fletcher, our Under Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, also briefed the Council and he told the fifteen members that the food security crisis in Yemen has been steadily accelerating since late 2023. Today, he said, more than 17 million people in Yemen are going hungry and that number could climb to over 18 million by September. He called for increased funding now to scale up emergency food and nutrition support for all those who need it. 

    SUDAN
    Turning to the situation in Sudan, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that the situation in North Darfur State remains alarming, as fighting continues to drive families from their homes.
    Yesterday, shelling reportedly hit the market area inside the Abu Shouk camp, killing three civilians and injuring many more. As a reminder, this is a displacement camp where famine was confirmed last year. This tragic incident is another reminder of the toll this conflict is taking on civilians.
    Prior to yesterday’s incident, the International Organization for Migration reports that more than 3,200 people had fled Abu Shouk camp and parts of El Fasher between June 26th and July 6th, and that they were seeking safety in places like As Serief, Tawila and At Tina.
    In the Kordofan region, the humanitarian situation is also deteriorating.
    Ongoing violence is forcing more people to flee, often into areas with little or no assistance. IOM says that on July 5th, nearly 800 people were displaced from Bara, in North Kordofan State, and are now sheltering in White Nile State.
    Despite the challenges, our humanitarian partners are doing everything they can to keep services running. In North Darfur, they are supporting over 1.7 million human beings with basic healthcare, using both remaining health facilities and mobile clinics. However, medical supplies are running critically low.
    We and our partners are rushing assistance to the Darfur region.
    A humanitarian convoy that crossed into Darfur from Chad on July 6th – and that convoy was led by our Deputy Humanitarian Coordinator, Antoine Gerard – is carrying 180 metric tonnes of life-saving relief items for almost 400,000 conflict-affected and displaced people both in the East and South Darfur states.
    Meanwhile, flash flooding threatens to make it more difficult for humanitarians to reach people in need. Today in eastern Sudan, heavy rains triggered flash floods in the Northern Delta locality of Kassala State. This comes as authorities began releasing water from several major dams to manage rising floodwaters. OCHA is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they come in.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oakUfqPvDo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President of Human Rights Council appoints Max du Plessis of South Africa as member of Iran fact-finding mission

    Source: APO


    .

    The President of the Human Rights Council, Ambassador Jürg Lauber (Switzerland), has announced the appointment of Mr. Max du Plessis of South Africa to serve as an independent member of the Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran. Mr. du Plessis replaces Ms. Shaheen Sardar Ali of Pakistan on the three-member investigative panel and joins Ms. Sara Hossain of Bangladesh and Ms. Viviana Krsticevic of Argentina. Ms. Hossain serves as chair of the Fact-Finding Mission.

    The Human Rights Council established the Fact-Finding Mission with resolution S-35/1 of 24 November 2022, adopted at a special session, to “investigate alleged human rights violations in the Islamic Republic of Iran related to the protests that began on 16 September 2022, especially with respect to women and children”. The three-person Mission was further requested to “establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the alleged violations and collect, consolidate and analyse evidence of such violations and preserve evidence, including in view of cooperation in any legal proceedings”.

    The mandate of the Fact-Finding Mission was subsequently extended for one year with resolution 55/19 of 4 April 2024 entitled “Situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran.” 

    In April 2025, with its resolution 58/21, the Council extended the Fact-Finding Mission’s mandate for an additional year and expanded its scope to, among other things, thoroughly and independently monitor and investigate allegations of recent and ongoing serious human rights violations in Iran. This resolution requests the Fact-Finding Mission to present a report to the Human Rights Council at its 61st session in February/March 2026, and to present an oral update, to be followed by an interactive dialogue, to the United Nations General Assembly at its 80th session (2025-2026).

    Mr. du Plessis is a South African barrister and academic whose career has been characterised by his involvement on justice and human rights issues. He has a Bachelor of Laws from the University of South Africa and the University of Natal (South Africa), completed his Master of Laws at the University of Cambridge (United Kingdom) and completed his PhD studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa).

    His legal career began in 2000 when he became an advocate at the High Court of South Africa. His expertise in international, administrative, and constitutional law lead to a role as a senior research fellow in the International Crime in Africa Programme at the Institute for Security Studies. Mr. du Plessis has practiced law in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and has been a visiting expert at the International Criminal Court.

    Throughout his career Mr. du Plessis has been an adjunct professor at the University of Cape Town and Nelson Mandela University. He also served as a visiting professor at Law Futures Centre, Griffith University (Australia), Oxford Institute for Ethics, Law and Armed Conflict, Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford (United Kingdom), St. John’s College, University of Cambridge (United Kingdom), the London School of Economics (United Kingdom), Harvard Kennedy School, Harvard University (United States), and others.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations: Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Prime Minister addresses the Namibian Parliament

    Source: APO


    .

    At the invitation of the Speaker of the National Assembly, H.E. Saara Kuugongelwa, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed today the Parliament of Namibia. This special gesture from the Namibian side made Prime Minister’s State Visit to Namibia even more meaningful.

    2.​ Addressing the Parliament, Prime Minister conveyed greetings from the “Mother of Democracy” and the largest democracy in the world to the members of the august House and to the friendly people of Namibia. Recalling the historic ties between the two countries and their shared struggle for freedom, Prime Minister paid tribute to the legacy of Dr. Sam Nujoma, the founding father of Namibia. He noted that the democratic values and principles championed by the founding fathers of the two countries continue to illuminate the path of progress in both countries. He lauded the role of the government and people of Namibia in deepening democracy in the country.

    3. Prime Minister thanked the people of Namibia for bestowing on him their highest national honor. He noted that this special gesture was a tribute to the achievements of the Indian and Namibian democracies. As sentinels of freedom, equality and justice, he called upon the two countries to work for the betterment of the Global South, so that the voices of its people are not just heard, but their hopes and aspirations are fully realized. He underlined that India will always work for the progress of Africa, as it had done during its presidency of the G-20 when the African Union was made a permanent member of the group. He stated that India was privileged to share its development experience with Namibia and other countries in the continent. India remains committed to building capacity, developing skills, promoting local innovation and supporting Africa’s Agenda 2063.

    4. Prime Minister thanked the Speaker for the honor extended to him. He called for greater people-to-people interaction between the two countries so that the two democracies ever prosper. “Let our children not only inherit the freedom we fought for, but also the future we will build together.” – he said as he concluded his address. Full text of Prime Minister’s address may be seen here.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of External Affairs – Government of India.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £2 million boost to fix and future-proof Plymouth’s public buildings

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Plymouth City Council has approved a £2 million capital programme to carry out urgent and essential repairs across its estate — a major step forward in improving the safety, condition, and long-term sustainability of the city’s public buildings.

    The Council’s estate includes more than 240 buildings across 135 sites — from civic offices and libraries to depots, public toilets, and heritage buildings. Many of these are ageing and complex to maintain, with some dating back hundreds of years.

    The new Facilities Management (FM) Capital Programme means the Council can get on with urgent repairs more quickly, with a single pot of funding that allows the team to prioritise the most important work and speed up the procurement process. It also helps the Council plan better, buy smarter, and make the most of every pound spent.

    Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said: “This investment is about making sure our buildings are safe, functional, and fit for the future. We know there have been challenges in how we’ve managed our estate, and this is a clear sign of our commitment to doing better — for our staff, our residents, and our city.”

    The investment comes at a time when local authorities across the country are facing significant financial pressures. Reduced government funding and rising costs in the construction and maintenance sectors have made it increasingly difficult to keep up with the demands of a large and ageing estate.

    Despite these challenges, the Council has already begun delivering a wide-ranging improvement programme in FM. This includes:
    • Investment in better systems and data collection and management to support planned maintenance.
    • Recruitment plan for a new leadership team, including a permanent Head of FM, Hard FM Operational Manager, Fire Safety Advisor, Building Asset Manager, Contracts Manager
    • FM Service Structure that supports the delivery of the service.
    • Compliance audit across the estate

    The £2 million programme will be overseen by a new FM Governance Board, with clear criteria for prioritising works and ensuring transparency.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to New Jersey Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought and Excessive Heat

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in New Jersey of the Aug. 11 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by drought and excessive heat occurring June 25, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the New Jersey counties of Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Somerset, Union, and Warren as well as county of Bucks in Pennsylvania.

    Under this declaration SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”  

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is Aug. 11, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Live Entertainment CEO Indicted for Orchestrating Conspiracy to Rig Bidding Process for Public University Arena

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A federal grand jury has returned an indictment against Timothy J. Leiweke, the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Oak View Group (OVG), for orchestrating a conspiracy to rig the bidding process for an arena at a public university in Austin, Texas, the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division announced today. OVG develops and provides a variety of services to live entertainment venues.

    The indictment, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, alleges that, from approximately February 2018 through at least June 2024, Leiweke conspired with the Chief Executive Officer of a competitor to rig the bidding for the development, management, and use of a multi-purpose arena that was to be located on the campus of a public university in Austin, Texas (the “Arena Project”).  

    “As outline in the indictment, the Defendant rigged a bidding process to benefit his own company and deprived a public university and taxpayers of the benefits of competitive bidding,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “The Antitrust Division and its law enforcement partners will continue to hold executives who cheat to avoid competition accountable.”

    “Unfair business practices, like those employed here, make it very difficult for the American people to pursue prosperity like our founders intended,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “In the Western District of Texas, we’re proud to work with our colleagues in the Antitrust Division on these types of cases, and we will do all we can to ensure those who engage in the type of conduct described in this case are held to account.”

    “Timothy Leiweke allegedly led a scheme designed to steer the contract for entertainment services at a public university’s arena to his company. Public contracts are subject to laws requiring an open and competitive bid process to ensure a level playing field,” said Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia of the FBI New York Field Office. “The FBI is determined to ensure that those who disregard fair competition principles do not benefit from a rigged bidding process targeting our communities and public institutions.”

    “An important part of the mission of the Office of Inspector General is to investigate allegations of corruption and illegal influence in the American workplace,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan R. Mellone of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of the Inspector General, Northeast region. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate these types of allegations.”

    According to the indictment, in September 2017, Leiweke informed colleagues that he had learned another venue-services company was “bidding against us” for the Arena Project and wanted to “find a way to get [the competitor] some of the business” and “get them to back down.”  In November 2017, Leiweke informed others that he was “[m]ore than happy talking to [the competitor] about not bidding and [receiving certain subcontracts]” but had “no interest in working with them if they intend on putting in a bid.” In February of 2018, Leiweke ultimately reached an agreement with the competitor’s CEO, pursuant to which the competitor agreed that it would stand down and neither submit nor join an independent competing bid for the Arena Project. In exchange for the competitor’s agreement to stand down, Leiweke represented that the competitor would receive Arena Project’s subcontracts. Consistent with the bid-rigging agreement, the competitor did not submit a competing bid for the Arena Project. OVG ultimately submitted the sole qualified bid and won the Arena Project.  The arena opened to the public in April 2022, and OVG continues to receive significant revenues from the project to date.

    OVG and Legends Hospitality have agreed to pay $15 million and $1.5 million in penalties, respectively, in connection with the conduct alleged in the indictment against Leiweke.

    Leiweke is charged with a violation of Section 1 of the Sherman Act. The maximum penalty for individuals is 10 years in prison and a $1 million criminal fine. The fine may be increased to twice the gain derived from the crime or twice the loss suffered by the victims of the crime if either amount is greater than the statutory maximum fine. If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New York Field Office are investigating the case.

    The Antitrust Division’s New York Office is prosecuting the case, with the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas.

    Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258, or visit www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.

    An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Travel Advisory: RIDOT Testing Paddles on I-195 East to Help Merging Traffic

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    Starting, Friday night July 11, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) will install traffic paddles along a section of I-195 East in Providence as part of a pilot to help traffic merge more efficiently. They will be located along a 500-foot section at the beginning of the highway, where drivers coming from I-95 North and South merge.

    The paddles, also called flexible delineators, will be installed in the center of the highway, allowing traffic in the two lanes from I-95 North and the two lanes from I-95 South to change lanes when vehicles are parallel to each other, which is more efficient.

    RIDOT will be monitoring the travel times after the paddles are installed to detect any changes in travel time and determine if any adjustments are needed, and if they will remain in place.

    Similar traffic paddles are in use and have been effective throughout the state.

    RIDOT continues to analyze options with the goal of reducing travel time and improving safety for these movements during the time the temporary traffic pattern is in place for the rebuild of the westbound Washington Bridge.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Live Entertainment CEO Indicted for Orchestrating Conspiracy to Rig Bidding Process for Public University Arena

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A federal grand jury has returned an indictment against Timothy J. Leiweke, the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Oak View Group (OVG), for orchestrating a conspiracy to rig the bidding process for an arena at a public university in Austin, Texas, the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division announced today. OVG develops and provides a variety of services to live entertainment venues.

    The indictment, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, alleges that, from approximately February 2018 through at least June 2024, Leiweke conspired with the Chief Executive Officer of a competitor to rig the bidding for the development, management, and use of a multi-purpose arena that was to be located on the campus of a public university in Austin, Texas (the “Arena Project”).  

    “As outline in the indictment, the Defendant rigged a bidding process to benefit his own company and deprived a public university and taxpayers of the benefits of competitive bidding,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “The Antitrust Division and its law enforcement partners will continue to hold executives who cheat to avoid competition accountable.”

    “Unfair business practices, like those employed here, make it very difficult for the American people to pursue prosperity like our founders intended,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “In the Western District of Texas, we’re proud to work with our colleagues in the Antitrust Division on these types of cases, and we will do all we can to ensure those who engage in the type of conduct described in this case are held to account.”

    “Timothy Leiweke allegedly led a scheme designed to steer the contract for entertainment services at a public university’s arena to his company. Public contracts are subject to laws requiring an open and competitive bid process to ensure a level playing field,” said Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia of the FBI New York Field Office. “The FBI is determined to ensure that those who disregard fair competition principles do not benefit from a rigged bidding process targeting our communities and public institutions.”

    “An important part of the mission of the Office of Inspector General is to investigate allegations of corruption and illegal influence in the American workplace,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan R. Mellone of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of the Inspector General, Northeast region. “We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate these types of allegations.”

    According to the indictment, in September 2017, Leiweke informed colleagues that he had learned another venue-services company was “bidding against us” for the Arena Project and wanted to “find a way to get [the competitor] some of the business” and “get them to back down.”  In November 2017, Leiweke informed others that he was “[m]ore than happy talking to [the competitor] about not bidding and [receiving certain subcontracts]” but had “no interest in working with them if they intend on putting in a bid.” In February of 2018, Leiweke ultimately reached an agreement with the competitor’s CEO, pursuant to which the competitor agreed that it would stand down and neither submit nor join an independent competing bid for the Arena Project. In exchange for the competitor’s agreement to stand down, Leiweke represented that the competitor would receive Arena Project’s subcontracts. Consistent with the bid-rigging agreement, the competitor did not submit a competing bid for the Arena Project. OVG ultimately submitted the sole qualified bid and won the Arena Project.  The arena opened to the public in April 2022, and OVG continues to receive significant revenues from the project to date.

    OVG and Legends Hospitality have agreed to pay $15 million and $1.5 million in penalties, respectively, in connection with the conduct alleged in the indictment against Leiweke.

    Leiweke is charged with a violation of Section 1 of the Sherman Act. The maximum penalty for individuals is 10 years in prison and a $1 million criminal fine. The fine may be increased to twice the gain derived from the crime or twice the loss suffered by the victims of the crime if either amount is greater than the statutory maximum fine. If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New York Field Office are investigating the case.

    The Antitrust Division’s New York Office is prosecuting the case, with the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas.

    Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258, or visit www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.

    An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Too Much: Lena Dunham’s love letter to London, romance and the messiness of being a woman

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jane Steventon, Course Leader, BA (Hons) Screenwriting; Deputy Course Leader & Senior Lecturer, BA (Hons) Film Production, University of Portsmouth

    When HBO launched Lena Dunham’s Girls in 2012, it followed shows such as Buffy (1997-2003), Sex and the City (1998-2004) and Gossip Girl (2007-2012), which had all set a standard of shiny, sanitised female representation that was both attractive and palatable to a wide audience.

    The grubby realism of Dunham’s New York twentysomethings, on the other hand, offered a surprising authenticity for some. But for others it was too messy, too white, too privileged and too authored around Dunham’s own life.

    Although younger characters are often categorised by self-absorption and poor judgment, the “realness” of Girls was still challenging for many viewers. In particular they struggled with Dunham’s own character, Hannah Horvath, an aspiring writer frequently making personal and professional mistakes. She made for an unlikely – and often unlikable – heroine.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Much attention was also paid to Hannah’s nudity, which proved to be a talking point each season. Dunham is known for her bold and positive attitude to her body, which clearly does not conform to standard Hollywood beauty types. But this reaction to Hannah’s frequent nakedness was ultimately highlighted as misogynistic by the creative powers behind the series such as producer Judd Apatow and co-writer Jenni Konner, as well as Dunham herself.

    The same critics may have similar problems with Too Much. Though fresh 20-something protagonist, Jessica is played with gusto by TikTok star Megan Stalter, not Dunham herself. She’s known for her scene-stealing performance in comedy-drama Hacks (2021-).

    Too Much is still clearly written by Dunham. Jess’s relocation from NYC to London echoes her own move to the UK in 2021, where she met and married the Peruvian-British musician Luis Felber and settled in north London.

    The pair have co-created this “love letter to London”, with Dunham directing and and Felber providing the original music. The story takes in London pubs, creative agencies, Notting-Hill-the-movie aspirations and council-estate realities.

    Growing pains

    As Jess starts work in a London media agency, helmed by an excitable Richard E. Grant, she meets cerebral indie musician Felix (played convincingly and charmingly by Will Sharpe). Their instant connection means that Jess is thrust back into the world of dating, with all the Instagram anxiety and breakup PTSD that her last relationship produced.

    The tone is at once fresh and frivolous, but episode one feels contrived at times with the creaky set-up of post-relationship life and relocation.

    The familial scenes are the most enjoyable, with Dunham calling in all her celebrity cameo favours, including herself as Jessica’s mother (she snaffles some of the show’s best lines), and Rita Wilson playing her own mother. The small but mighty Rhea Pearlman grabs the great-grandmother role with gusto, flirting salaciously with Jess’s paramour while dispensing wicked wisecracks with bone-dry humour.

    As the story develops, so does the sophistication and thoroughbred quality of Dunham’s writing and directing. Glorious moments of obsession with skin, taste and touch in the early days of a relationship are convincingly conveyed by credible and well-crafted moments of intimacy, both physical and intellectual.

    As Jessica and Felix navigate the inevitable ups-and-downs of togetherness (dinner parties, red-flag paranoia and an unrequited “I love you”), Dunham reflects on love’s tumultuous and terrifying roller-coaster via brilliant dialogue and meaningful visual storytelling.

    A particularly thought-provoking moment of direction comes in the form of a long take at the end of episode three, where the duo cosy up together, ready for sleep, in silent closeness. Jess listens to music on headphones, potentially excluding Felix, but the inference is of acceptance and tenderness – a reassuring sign of potential longevity.

    The pitfalls on the road to love are frequently revealed in flashback from Jessica’s past relationship with Zev (Michael Zegen), who has moved on with a new partner. We go from the “meet-cute” and early days of infatuation between Jess and Zev, steadily giving way to less and less tolerance and emotional intimacy, until finally the betrayal with the new love becomes clear.

    Capitalising on the anxieties induced by social media, Dunham has Jess obsessively watching Zev’s new love Wendy (Emily Ratajkowski) on Instagram, where every desirable detail of her life plays out in perfection. When Wendy broadcasts the inevitable proposal on Instagram Live, Jess is sent spiralling and decides to flee to London.

    As the series progresses, Dunham’s goals become clearer and echo those of Girls. Both shows explore what it means to be “too much” – an accusation that many strong, ambitious and focused women have experienced.

    Being too much, it turns out, may be not such a bad thing. As Felix remarks at the close of episode four, after one of their first clashes, “too much” is not necessarily an insult – it can be a way of describing someone who is remarkable. It’s something that Dunham clearly believes – and wants us all to believe – about the tumultuous and chaotic experience of growing up.

    Too Much is a hopeful paean to womanhood, a declaration that messiness, failure and fear are all part of becoming a woman just as much as joy, love and intimacy. This show inspires and engages the more it reveals of its flawed and fallible protagonist amid the melting pot of London that Dunham so clearly adores.

    Jane Steventon does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Too Much: Lena Dunham’s love letter to London, romance and the messiness of being a woman – https://theconversation.com/too-much-lena-dunhams-love-letter-to-london-romance-and-the-messiness-of-being-a-woman-260528

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: N.M. Congressional Delegation Calls on President Trump to Grant State’s Major Disaster Declaration Request in Response to Severe Flooding

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
    N.M. Delegation: “It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss”
    RUIDOSO, N.M. — As families mourn the loss of the three lives taken in severe flash flooding, and as many New Mexicans are being forced to evacuate their homes and businesses, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are calling on President Donald Trump to approve a Major Disaster Declaration request from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
    In a letter to President Trump, New Mexico’s Congressional delegation wrote, “We respectfully request that you take immediate action on the recent request for a major disaster declaration from the State of New Mexico in response to the severe weather system that produced unprecedented monsoonal rain statewide, causing severe thunderstorms and devastating flash flooding across multiple jurisdictions.
    “Yesterday and throughout the night, we watched Ruidoso leaders and staff, National Weather Service-Albuquerque staff, utility crews, first responders, medical providers, and rescue teams rally to save lives and help New Mexicans affected by the devastating flash flooding. We are immensely grateful for their heroic efforts.  
    “The scale of this disaster demands an immediate and robust response. Lives, homes, and critical infrastructure have been upended by this devastation, and New Mexico should not have to face it alone. We urge you to act without delay and approve the State of New Mexico’s request for a major disaster declaration.”
    A Major Disaster Declaration would open up access to Public Assistance and Individual Assistance funds from FEMA. Public Assistance supports the restoration and reconstruction of public infrastructure and lands. Individual Assistance supports families from losses suffered due to the flash flooding.
    The State is requesting Public Assistance, Category A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance for Lincoln County, Chaves County, Otero County, and Valencia County, as well as Individual Assistance, including Housing Assistance, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment, and Displacement Assistance for Lincoln County and Valencia County. The State is also requesting Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated by New Mexico’s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan.
    The lawmakers added, “It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss.”
    Read the full text of the letter below or by clicking here.
    Dear President Trump,  
    We respectfully request that you take immediate action on the recent request for a major disaster declaration from the State of New Mexico in response to the severe weather system that produced unprecedented monsoonal rain statewide, causing severe thunderstorms and devastating flash flooding across multiple jurisdictions. 
    Yesterday and throughout the night, we watched Ruidoso leaders and staff, National Weather Service-Albuquerque staff, utility crews, first responders, medical providers, and rescue teams rally to save lives and help New Mexicans affected by the devastating flash flooding. We are immensely grateful for their heroic efforts. 
    The scale of this disaster demands an immediate and robust response. Lives, homes, and critical infrastructure have been upended by this devastation, and New Mexico should not have to face it alone. We urge you to act without delay and approve the State of New Mexico’s request for a major disaster declaration.
    The State is requesting Public Assistance, Category A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance for Lincoln County, Chaves County, Otero County, and Valencia County, as well as Individual Assistance, including Housing Assistance, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment, and Displacement Assistance for Lincoln County and Valencia County. The State is also requesting Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated by New Mexico’s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan. We ask that you expeditiously grant the declaration and make this federal assistance available as soon as possible for the State to have all the resources they need to mitigate and recover from the devastation of this weather system.  
    Beginning on June 23, 2025, a weather system swept across New Mexico, producing monsoonal rain patterns and causing overwhelming damage across the state. Exacerbated by the severe to exceptional drought conditions across much of the state, as well as the number of interacting burn scars in much of the impacted area, the heavy rains and thunderstorms led to devastating flash flooding. Since this weather system started, it has impacted approximately 675 homes, with hundreds more under immediate threat of ongoing flooding in burn scars, and tragically caused at least three fatalities. Additionally, 70 distinct pieces of critical infrastructure have been damaged, including roads and bridges having been blown out by the floods and debris flow and drainage systems, water control facilities, and at least eight public buildings being destroyed or receiving severe damage. Many New Mexicans have been forced to evacuate their homes and businesses, often with livestock and pets.
    It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss. 
    Thank you for your consideration of this important request. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: N.M. Congressional Delegation Calls on President Trump to Grant State’s Major Disaster Declaration Request in Response to Severe Flooding

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    N.M. Delegation: “It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss”

    RUIDOSO, N.M. — As families mourn the loss of the three lives taken in severe flash flooding, and as many New Mexicans are being forced to evacuate their homes and businesses, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are calling on President Donald Trump to approve a Major Disaster Declaration request from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.

    In a letter to President Trump, New Mexico’s Congressional delegation wrote, “We respectfully request that you take immediate action on the recent request for a major disaster declaration from the State of New Mexico in response to the severe weather system that produced unprecedented monsoonal rain statewide, causing severe thunderstorms and devastating flash flooding across multiple jurisdictions.

    “Yesterday and throughout the night, we watched Ruidoso leaders and staff, National Weather Service-Albuquerque staff, utility crews, first responders, medical providers, and rescue teams rally to save lives and help New Mexicans affected by the devastating flash flooding. We are immensely grateful for their heroic efforts.  

    “The scale of this disaster demands an immediate and robust response. Lives, homes, and critical infrastructure have been upended by this devastation, and New Mexico should not have to face it alone. We urge you to act without delay and approve the State of New Mexico’s request for a major disaster declaration.”

    A Major Disaster Declaration would open up access to Public Assistance and Individual Assistance funds from FEMA. Public Assistance supports the restoration and reconstruction of public infrastructure and lands. Individual Assistance supports families from losses suffered due to the flash flooding.

    The State is requesting Public Assistance, Category A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance for Lincoln County, Chaves County, Otero County, and Valencia County, as well as Individual Assistance, including Housing Assistance, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment, and Displacement Assistance for Lincoln County and Valencia County. The State is also requesting Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated by New Mexico’s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan.

    The lawmakers added, “It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss.”

    Read the full text of the letter below or by clicking here.

    Dear President Trump,  

    We respectfully request that you take immediate action on the recent request for a major disaster declaration from the State of New Mexico in response to the severe weather system that produced unprecedented monsoonal rain statewide, causing severe thunderstorms and devastating flash flooding across multiple jurisdictions. 

    Yesterday and throughout the night, we watched Ruidoso leaders and staff, National Weather Service-Albuquerque staff, utility crews, first responders, medical providers, and rescue teams rally to save lives and help New Mexicans affected by the devastating flash flooding. We are immensely grateful for their heroic efforts. 

    The scale of this disaster demands an immediate and robust response. Lives, homes, and critical infrastructure have been upended by this devastation, and New Mexico should not have to face it alone. We urge you to act without delay and approve the State of New Mexico’s request for a major disaster declaration.

    The State is requesting Public Assistance, Category A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance for Lincoln County, Chaves County, Otero County, and Valencia County, as well as Individual Assistance, including Housing Assistance, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment, and Displacement Assistance for Lincoln County and Valencia County. The State is also requesting Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated by New Mexico’s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan. We ask that you expeditiously grant the declaration and make this federal assistance available as soon as possible for the State to have all the resources they need to mitigate and recover from the devastation of this weather system.  

    Beginning on June 23, 2025, a weather system swept across New Mexico, producing monsoonal rain patterns and causing overwhelming damage across the state. Exacerbated by the severe to exceptional drought conditions across much of the state, as well as the number of interacting burn scars in much of the impacted area, the heavy rains and thunderstorms led to devastating flash flooding. Since this weather system started, it has impacted approximately 675 homes, with hundreds more under immediate threat of ongoing flooding in burn scars, and tragically caused at least three fatalities. Additionally, 70 distinct pieces of critical infrastructure have been damaged, including roads and bridges having been blown out by the floods and debris flow and drainage systems, water control facilities, and at least eight public buildings being destroyed or receiving severe damage. Many New Mexicans have been forced to evacuate their homes and businesses, often with livestock and pets.

    It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss. 

    Thank you for your consideration of this important request. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: N.M. Congressional Delegation Calls on President Trump to Grant State’s Major Disaster Declaration Request in Response to Severe Flooding

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    N.M. Delegation: “It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss”

    RUIDOSO, N.M. — As families mourn the loss of the three lives taken in severe flash flooding, and as many New Mexicans are being forced to evacuate their homes and businesses, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are calling on President Donald Trump to approve a Major Disaster Declaration request from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.

    In a letter to President Trump, New Mexico’s Congressional delegation wrote, “We respectfully request that you take immediate action on the recent request for a major disaster declaration from the State of New Mexico in response to the severe weather system that produced unprecedented monsoonal rain statewide, causing severe thunderstorms and devastating flash flooding across multiple jurisdictions.

    “Yesterday and throughout the night, we watched Ruidoso leaders and staff, National Weather Service-Albuquerque staff, utility crews, first responders, medical providers, and rescue teams rally to save lives and help New Mexicans affected by the devastating flash flooding. We are immensely grateful for their heroic efforts.  

    “The scale of this disaster demands an immediate and robust response. Lives, homes, and critical infrastructure have been upended by this devastation, and New Mexico should not have to face it alone. We urge you to act without delay and approve the State of New Mexico’s request for a major disaster declaration.”

    A Major Disaster Declaration would open up access to Public Assistance and Individual Assistance funds from FEMA. Public Assistance supports the restoration and reconstruction of public infrastructure and lands. Individual Assistance supports families from losses suffered due to the flash flooding.

    The State is requesting Public Assistance, Category A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance for Lincoln County, Chaves County, Otero County, and Valencia County, as well as Individual Assistance, including Housing Assistance, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment, and Displacement Assistance for Lincoln County and Valencia County. The State is also requesting Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated by New Mexico’s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan.

    The lawmakers added, “It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss.”

    Read the full text of the letter below or by clicking here.

    Dear President Trump,  

    We respectfully request that you take immediate action on the recent request for a major disaster declaration from the State of New Mexico in response to the severe weather system that produced unprecedented monsoonal rain statewide, causing severe thunderstorms and devastating flash flooding across multiple jurisdictions. 

    Yesterday and throughout the night, we watched Ruidoso leaders and staff, National Weather Service-Albuquerque staff, utility crews, first responders, medical providers, and rescue teams rally to save lives and help New Mexicans affected by the devastating flash flooding. We are immensely grateful for their heroic efforts. 

    The scale of this disaster demands an immediate and robust response. Lives, homes, and critical infrastructure have been upended by this devastation, and New Mexico should not have to face it alone. We urge you to act without delay and approve the State of New Mexico’s request for a major disaster declaration.

    The State is requesting Public Assistance, Category A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance for Lincoln County, Chaves County, Otero County, and Valencia County, as well as Individual Assistance, including Housing Assistance, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment, and Displacement Assistance for Lincoln County and Valencia County. The State is also requesting Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated by New Mexico’s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan. We ask that you expeditiously grant the declaration and make this federal assistance available as soon as possible for the State to have all the resources they need to mitigate and recover from the devastation of this weather system.  

    Beginning on June 23, 2025, a weather system swept across New Mexico, producing monsoonal rain patterns and causing overwhelming damage across the state. Exacerbated by the severe to exceptional drought conditions across much of the state, as well as the number of interacting burn scars in much of the impacted area, the heavy rains and thunderstorms led to devastating flash flooding. Since this weather system started, it has impacted approximately 675 homes, with hundreds more under immediate threat of ongoing flooding in burn scars, and tragically caused at least three fatalities. Additionally, 70 distinct pieces of critical infrastructure have been damaged, including roads and bridges having been blown out by the floods and debris flow and drainage systems, water control facilities, and at least eight public buildings being destroyed or receiving severe damage. Many New Mexicans have been forced to evacuate their homes and businesses, often with livestock and pets.

    It is imperative that the federal government provides full support needed for New Mexico communities to respond and recover. Anything less would leave families vulnerable and prolong the suffering of those already facing unimaginable loss. 

    Thank you for your consideration of this important request. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Works to Mitigate Flood Risks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), members of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, are working to mitigate flood risk and improve water quality by ensuring farmers, landowners, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) can work together to restore and maintain floodplains.
    The bipartisan Restoring America’s Floodplains Act would make clear that the USDA can assist landowners in maintaining floodplain easements in the Emergency Watershed Protection Program by taking part in restoration activities like removing levees and replanting native species that are critical for reducing flood risk and improving natural habitat.  
    “I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impacts flooding can have on our communities in Iowa, and my heart goes out to all those who have been impacted by destructive natural disasters,” said Senator Ernst. “I’m proud to be working on a bipartisan solution to proactively reduce these impacts that will use existing tools at no additional cost to taxpayers while also improving water quality and protecting our valuable land.”
    “The Restoring America’s Floodplains Act will give USDA the tools it needs to help Colorado farmers and landowners reduce flood risk across the state,” said Senator Bennet. “The growing weather challenges we face are putting more pressure on our watersheds and farmland. Investing in natural infrastructure is a common-sense way to mitigate damage and improve our floodplains for future generations.”
    “The Restoring America’s Floodplains Act is a real opportunity for farmers and landowners working to restore impacted floodplains and enhance stewardship of vulnerable landscapes to provide wildlife habitat, flood mitigation, and cleaner water,” said Anna Gray, Public Policy Director and Counsel at Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation. “INHF supports the Restoring America’s Floodplains Act because it will provide producers critical relief in the face of flooding disasters and options for recovery and restoration that have cascading benefits for Iowa’s land, water, wildlife and communities.”
    “As Iowans look for solutions to mitigate flood impacts and improve water quality, we need look no further than nature,” said Amber Markham, Director of External Affairs for The Nature Conservancy in Iowa. “Nature-based solutions like floodplain restorations provide countless benefits to Iowans and we support legislation that advances these goals.” 
    “Floodplain easements are voluntary, incentive-based tools that enable landowners to restore natural floodplains that lower the risk of flooding, improve water quality and soil health, and preserve waterfowl habitat,” said Chris Fox, Ducks Unlimited Iowa State Policy Chair. “It’s a perfect example of natural infrastructure solutions that benefit people, our communities, and wildlife, and we thank Sens. Ernst and Bennet for introducing the Restoring America’s Floodplains Act.”
    Background:
    While in the Iowa National Guard, Ernst deployed multiple times to help Iowans recover from devastating floods and has long worked to cut government red tape so disaster victims can better access the tools they need. Most notably, she called for a one-stop shop that connects America’s rural communities to federal resources, now known as the Rural Partnership Network, a direct line of communication that helps coordinate hundreds of rural-focused federal support programs. Following last year’s flooding in Iowa, Ernst called for full resources to support thoseimpacted. She visited the Iowa communities affected and met directly with local leaders and emergency response officials to support recovery efforts. She also conducted oversight of FEMA to ensure recovery efforts remain free from politicization.
    Ernst has long held that farmers are the original conservationists and pushed to remove red tape from USDA conservation programs to make these tools more accessible.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Works to Mitigate Flood Risks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), members of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, are working to mitigate flood risk and improve water quality by ensuring farmers, landowners, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) can work together to restore and maintain floodplains.
    The bipartisan Restoring America’s Floodplains Act would make clear that the USDA can assist landowners in maintaining floodplain easements in the Emergency Watershed Protection Program by taking part in restoration activities like removing levees and replanting native species that are critical for reducing flood risk and improving natural habitat.  
    “I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impacts flooding can have on our communities in Iowa, and my heart goes out to all those who have been impacted by destructive natural disasters,” said Senator Ernst. “I’m proud to be working on a bipartisan solution to proactively reduce these impacts that will use existing tools at no additional cost to taxpayers while also improving water quality and protecting our valuable land.”
    “The Restoring America’s Floodplains Act will give USDA the tools it needs to help Colorado farmers and landowners reduce flood risk across the state,” said Senator Bennet. “The growing weather challenges we face are putting more pressure on our watersheds and farmland. Investing in natural infrastructure is a common-sense way to mitigate damage and improve our floodplains for future generations.”
    “The Restoring America’s Floodplains Act is a real opportunity for farmers and landowners working to restore impacted floodplains and enhance stewardship of vulnerable landscapes to provide wildlife habitat, flood mitigation, and cleaner water,” said Anna Gray, Public Policy Director and Counsel at Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation. “INHF supports the Restoring America’s Floodplains Act because it will provide producers critical relief in the face of flooding disasters and options for recovery and restoration that have cascading benefits for Iowa’s land, water, wildlife and communities.”
    “As Iowans look for solutions to mitigate flood impacts and improve water quality, we need look no further than nature,” said Amber Markham, Director of External Affairs for The Nature Conservancy in Iowa. “Nature-based solutions like floodplain restorations provide countless benefits to Iowans and we support legislation that advances these goals.” 
    “Floodplain easements are voluntary, incentive-based tools that enable landowners to restore natural floodplains that lower the risk of flooding, improve water quality and soil health, and preserve waterfowl habitat,” said Chris Fox, Ducks Unlimited Iowa State Policy Chair. “It’s a perfect example of natural infrastructure solutions that benefit people, our communities, and wildlife, and we thank Sens. Ernst and Bennet for introducing the Restoring America’s Floodplains Act.”
    Background:
    While in the Iowa National Guard, Ernst deployed multiple times to help Iowans recover from devastating floods and has long worked to cut government red tape so disaster victims can better access the tools they need. Most notably, she called for a one-stop shop that connects America’s rural communities to federal resources, now known as the Rural Partnership Network, a direct line of communication that helps coordinate hundreds of rural-focused federal support programs. Following last year’s flooding in Iowa, Ernst called for full resources to support thoseimpacted. She visited the Iowa communities affected and met directly with local leaders and emergency response officials to support recovery efforts. She also conducted oversight of FEMA to ensure recovery efforts remain free from politicization.
    Ernst has long held that farmers are the original conservationists and pushed to remove red tape from USDA conservation programs to make these tools more accessible.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Works to Mitigate Flood Risks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), members of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, are working to mitigate flood risk and improve water quality by ensuring farmers, landowners, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) can work together to restore and maintain floodplains.
    The bipartisan Restoring America’s Floodplains Act would make clear that the USDA can assist landowners in maintaining floodplain easements in the Emergency Watershed Protection Program by taking part in restoration activities like removing levees and replanting native species that are critical for reducing flood risk and improving natural habitat.  
    “I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impacts flooding can have on our communities in Iowa, and my heart goes out to all those who have been impacted by destructive natural disasters,” said Senator Ernst. “I’m proud to be working on a bipartisan solution to proactively reduce these impacts that will use existing tools at no additional cost to taxpayers while also improving water quality and protecting our valuable land.”
    “The Restoring America’s Floodplains Act will give USDA the tools it needs to help Colorado farmers and landowners reduce flood risk across the state,” said Senator Bennet. “The growing weather challenges we face are putting more pressure on our watersheds and farmland. Investing in natural infrastructure is a common-sense way to mitigate damage and improve our floodplains for future generations.”
    “The Restoring America’s Floodplains Act is a real opportunity for farmers and landowners working to restore impacted floodplains and enhance stewardship of vulnerable landscapes to provide wildlife habitat, flood mitigation, and cleaner water,” said Anna Gray, Public Policy Director and Counsel at Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation. “INHF supports the Restoring America’s Floodplains Act because it will provide producers critical relief in the face of flooding disasters and options for recovery and restoration that have cascading benefits for Iowa’s land, water, wildlife and communities.”
    “As Iowans look for solutions to mitigate flood impacts and improve water quality, we need look no further than nature,” said Amber Markham, Director of External Affairs for The Nature Conservancy in Iowa. “Nature-based solutions like floodplain restorations provide countless benefits to Iowans and we support legislation that advances these goals.” 
    “Floodplain easements are voluntary, incentive-based tools that enable landowners to restore natural floodplains that lower the risk of flooding, improve water quality and soil health, and preserve waterfowl habitat,” said Chris Fox, Ducks Unlimited Iowa State Policy Chair. “It’s a perfect example of natural infrastructure solutions that benefit people, our communities, and wildlife, and we thank Sens. Ernst and Bennet for introducing the Restoring America’s Floodplains Act.”
    Background:
    While in the Iowa National Guard, Ernst deployed multiple times to help Iowans recover from devastating floods and has long worked to cut government red tape so disaster victims can better access the tools they need. Most notably, she called for a one-stop shop that connects America’s rural communities to federal resources, now known as the Rural Partnership Network, a direct line of communication that helps coordinate hundreds of rural-focused federal support programs. Following last year’s flooding in Iowa, Ernst called for full resources to support thoseimpacted. She visited the Iowa communities affected and met directly with local leaders and emergency response officials to support recovery efforts. She also conducted oversight of FEMA to ensure recovery efforts remain free from politicization.
    Ernst has long held that farmers are the original conservationists and pushed to remove red tape from USDA conservation programs to make these tools more accessible.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty Introduces Kimberly Guilfoyle, Trump’s Nominee to be U.S. Ambassador to Greece

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
    WASHINGTON—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, introduced Kimberly Guilfoyle, President Donald Trump’s nominee to be U.S. Ambassador to Greece, at a nomination hearing.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*
    Remarks as prepared for delivery:
    It is my honor to introduce my good friend, Kimberly Guilfoyle, who is President Trump’s nominee to be the U.S. Ambassador to Greece.
    Kimberly is a deeply experienced attorney, a nationally-respected commentator on politics and public policy, and strategist.
    Throughout her career, she has excelled in both the private sector and in public service roles.
    Indeed, her distinguished background and long-standing commitment to public engagement make her an excellent candidate to serve as the next U.S. Ambassador to Greece.
    Ms. Guilfoyle worked as a broadcaster at Fox News where she co-hosted The Five and Outnumbered and previously appeared as a legal analyst on CNN, ABC News, and Court TV.
    Earlier in her career, Kimberly served as a prosecutor in the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office and as Deputy District Attorney in Los Angeles, where she garnered national recognition for her legal acumen.
    Her academic and civic credentials further support her nomination—having graduated magna cum laude from the University of California, Davis, and earned a J.D. from the University Of San Francisco School Of Law.
    She is also the recipient of multiple awards recognizing her legal work, public service, and advocacy—including the Heritage of Hope Award from the New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and the Special Civil Rights Award from the City of New York.
    Most recently, in January she was awarded what’s known as an Emblematic Icon by the Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Church of America commemorating the spiritual and cultural bonds between Greece and the United States.
    Ms. Guilfoyle’s strong expertise and experience—as well as her deep ties to the Greek-American community—make her extremely well-qualified to represent the United States in Greece.
    On a very personal note, as I moved from my prior post as U.S. Ambassador to Japan and into the U.S. Senate, Kimberly was there for me.
    She joined me for the kick off of my senate campaign in my small hometown in Tennessee, so I feel like she has been with me since the very beginning of this current chapter in my life.
    I am honored to support her as she opens the next chapter in hers!
    I urge my colleagues on this Committee to support her nomination as well.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty Introduces Kimberly Guilfoyle, Trump’s Nominee to be U.S. Ambassador to Greece

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    WASHINGTON—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, introduced Kimberly Guilfoyle, President Donald Trump’s nominee to be U.S. Ambassador to Greece, at a nomination hearing.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*

    Remarks as prepared for delivery:

    It is my honor to introduce my good friend, Kimberly Guilfoyle, who is President Trump’s nominee to be the U.S. Ambassador to Greece.

    Kimberly is a deeply experienced attorney, a nationally-respected commentator on politics and public policy, and strategist.

    Throughout her career, she has excelled in both the private sector and in public service roles.

    Indeed, her distinguished background and long-standing commitment to public engagement make her an excellent candidate to serve as the next U.S. Ambassador to Greece.

    Ms. Guilfoyle worked as a broadcaster at Fox News where she co-hosted The Five and Outnumbered and previously appeared as a legal analyst on CNN, ABC News, and Court TV.

    Earlier in her career, Kimberly served as a prosecutor in the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office and as Deputy District Attorney in Los Angeles, where she garnered national recognition for her legal acumen.

    Her academic and civic credentials further support her nomination—having graduated magna cum laude from the University of California, Davis, and earned a J.D. from the University Of San Francisco School Of Law.

    She is also the recipient of multiple awards recognizing her legal work, public service, and advocacy—including the Heritage of Hope Award from the New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and the Special Civil Rights Award from the City of New York.

    Most recently, in January she was awarded what’s known as an Emblematic Icon by the Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Church of America commemorating the spiritual and cultural bonds between Greece and the United States.

    Ms. Guilfoyle’s strong expertise and experience—as well as her deep ties to the Greek-American community—make her extremely well-qualified to represent the United States in Greece.

    On a very personal note, as I moved from my prior post as U.S. Ambassador to Japan and into the U.S. Senate, Kimberly was there for me.

    She joined me for the kick off of my senate campaign in my small hometown in Tennessee, so I feel like she has been with me since the very beginning of this current chapter in my life.

    I am honored to support her as she opens the next chapter in hers!

    I urge my colleagues on this Committee to support her nomination as well.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty Introduces Kimberly Guilfoyle, Trump’s Nominee to be U.S. Ambassador to Greece

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    WASHINGTON—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, introduced Kimberly Guilfoyle, President Donald Trump’s nominee to be U.S. Ambassador to Greece, at a nomination hearing.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*

    Remarks as prepared for delivery:

    It is my honor to introduce my good friend, Kimberly Guilfoyle, who is President Trump’s nominee to be the U.S. Ambassador to Greece.

    Kimberly is a deeply experienced attorney, a nationally-respected commentator on politics and public policy, and strategist.

    Throughout her career, she has excelled in both the private sector and in public service roles.

    Indeed, her distinguished background and long-standing commitment to public engagement make her an excellent candidate to serve as the next U.S. Ambassador to Greece.

    Ms. Guilfoyle worked as a broadcaster at Fox News where she co-hosted The Five and Outnumbered and previously appeared as a legal analyst on CNN, ABC News, and Court TV.

    Earlier in her career, Kimberly served as a prosecutor in the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office and as Deputy District Attorney in Los Angeles, where she garnered national recognition for her legal acumen.

    Her academic and civic credentials further support her nomination—having graduated magna cum laude from the University of California, Davis, and earned a J.D. from the University Of San Francisco School Of Law.

    She is also the recipient of multiple awards recognizing her legal work, public service, and advocacy—including the Heritage of Hope Award from the New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and the Special Civil Rights Award from the City of New York.

    Most recently, in January she was awarded what’s known as an Emblematic Icon by the Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Church of America commemorating the spiritual and cultural bonds between Greece and the United States.

    Ms. Guilfoyle’s strong expertise and experience—as well as her deep ties to the Greek-American community—make her extremely well-qualified to represent the United States in Greece.

    On a very personal note, as I moved from my prior post as U.S. Ambassador to Japan and into the U.S. Senate, Kimberly was there for me.

    She joined me for the kick off of my senate campaign in my small hometown in Tennessee, so I feel like she has been with me since the very beginning of this current chapter in my life.

    I am honored to support her as she opens the next chapter in hers!

    I urge my colleagues on this Committee to support her nomination as well.

    MIL OSI USA News –