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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI USA: UPDATE: Senator Collins Successfully Secures the Release of Remaining Education Funding for Maine Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins
    Published: July 25, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) announced that it will release the remaining formula grant funding for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 that states had anticipated receiving on July 1. The pause in releasing these funds risked the loss of nearly $28,000,000 for Maine’s public schools. This announcement comes in response to a letter sent earlier this month by Senator Collins and nine of her Republican Senate colleagues to Russell Vought, Director of the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB), advocating for the release of these anticipated education formula funds. Senator Collins also personally spoke to Education Secretary Linda McMahon to advocate for the release of this frozen funding.
    “These formula funds are essential to the operation of Maine’s public schools, supporting everything from classroom instruction to adult education,” said Senator Collins. “I am pleased that following outreach from my colleagues and me, the Administration has agreed to release these highly-anticipated resources. I will continue working to ensure that education funds are delivered without delay so that schools have adequate time to plan their finances for the upcoming school year, allowing students to arrive back to class this fall to properly-funded schools.”
    Specifically, the letter — led by Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Senator Collins — requested that the Administration faithfully implement the FY 2025 Full-Year Continuing Resolution Act, which Congress passed and the President signed into law earlier this year. The letter was also signed by Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Katie Britt (R-AL), Deb Fischer (R-NE), John Hoeven (R-ND), Jim Justice (R-WV), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Mike Rounds (R-SD).
    Prior to today’s announcement, last week, Senator Collins announced that the ED will release funding to support 21st Century Community Learning Centers, which provide afterschool and summer learning opportunities for students. Earlier this month, Senator Collins also announced that the ED awarded a total of $4,981,867 in TRIO Student Support Services grants to 11 Maine colleges and universities following her questioning of Secretary McMahon on the proposed elimination of TRIO programs during an Appropriations hearing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: As Trump Administration Continues To Gut Education Department, Warren Exposes Harmful Impact to Students with Disabilities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    July 25, 2025
    According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 60,000 public schools and about 30 million K-12 students were left without a dedicated civil rights investigator due to Trump’s cuts at ED.
    Warren: “It’s disgraceful that Secretary McMahon is firing the people responsible for protecting our students with disabilities.”
    Video of Exchange (YouTube)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), in a forum held by Senator Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), “Robbing Our Students’ Futures: The Indefensible Attacks on Public Education,” highlighted the consequences of President Donald Trump and Secretary Linda McMahon’s cuts to the Department of Education (ED) for students with disabilities and their families.
    “It’s disgraceful that Secretary McMahon is firing the people responsible for protecting our students with disabilities,” said Senator Warren. “This forum is a valuable opportunity to speak out and stand up against these horrible cuts so we can start building a better future for our nation’s children.”
    In the hearing, Senator Warren slammed Secretary McMahon for her broken promise to “make sure that our students with special needs are taken care of.” In March, Secretary McMahon fired half of the staff at ED’s Office of Civil Rights (OCR), which is responsible for protecting students facing discrimination in school, and closed down 7 out of OCR’s 12 regional offices, including the one in Boston. Nearly half of all OCR complaints involve discrimination against students with disabilities, and following these cuts, OCR has begun dismissing complaints at an unusually high rate.
    Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez, CEO of the National Center for Learning Disabilities, testified that due to the cuts at OCR, 60,000 public schools and 30 million K-12 students were left without a dedicated civil rights investigator, with OCR dismissing 30% more cases last year than in the previous year. She warned it would be “improbable, if not impossible” for OCR to sufficiently resolve incoming disability discrimination cases with staff cut in half.
    Senator Warren also highlighted the story of G, a student with an intellectual disability whose mom filed a complaint with OCR after G was allegedly locked in a padded room at her school repeatedly, despite not posing a danger to herself or others. The Trump administration fired the lawyer assigned to investigate G’s case, leaving G without any support. Ms. Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers, stressed the importance of making the public aware of the impact of cuts to public education by sharing stories like G’s. She described ED as an “opportunity engine” for providing educational oversight and funding for various education programs, which are crucial for students with disabilities.
    “We are in this fight because we believe that the future of this nation lies with our children. We speak out, we fight back, and we do not pass budgets that leave the door open for more cuts for the education of our children,” concluded Senator Warren.
    Senator Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign in a coordinated effort to fight back against President Trump’s attempts to abolish the Department of Education:
    On July 17, 2025, Senator Warren released a new 23-page report, “Education At Risk: Frontline Impacts of Trump’s War on Students,” highlighting warnings from 11 major national education and civil rights organizations on the impact of the Trump Administration’s dismantling of the Department of Education (ED), slashing support to millions of American students, primary and secondary school teachers, administrators, parents, and student loan borrowers.
    On July 15, 2025, Senators Warren and Sanders, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, urging her to reverse the interest hike on student loan borrowers in the SAVE forbearance.
    On July 14, 2025, Senator Warren joined a letter to the director of the Office of Management and Budget, Russ Vought, and Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon, demanding that the Department of Education stop blocking nearly $7 billion in funds for K-12 schools, including for afterschool programs.
    On July 3, 2025, Senator Warren led her colleagues in submitting an amicus brief for NAACP v. US, arguing to the United States District Court District of Maryland that President Trump’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education violate separation of powers and lack constitutional authority.
    On June 10, 2025, Senator Warren met with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and delivered over 1,000 letters to McMahon that the senator had received from people in all 50 states who were worried about the Secretary’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On June 9, 2025, Senator Warren led her colleagues in pushing the Acting Inspector General of the Department of Education to open an investigation into new information obtained by her office, revealing that DOGE may have gained access to two FSA internal systems, in addition to sensitive borrower data.
    On May 20, 2025, Senator Warren and 27 other senators pushed for full funding for the Office of Federal Student Aid.
    On May 14, 2025, Senator Warren led a Senate forum entitled “Stealing the American Dream: How Trump and Republicans Are Raising Education Costs for Families,” highlighting the consequences of Secretary Linda McMahon’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education and President Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” for working- and middle-class students and borrowers.
    On May 13, 2025, Senator Warren agreed to meet with Education Secretary Linda McMahon and promised to bring questions and stories from Americans across the country to highlight how the Trump administration’s attacks on education are hurting American families.
    On May 6, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren highlighted the consequences of President Trump and Secretary Linda McMahon’s reckless dismantling of the Department of Education for American families in a Senate forum.
    On April 24, 2025, Senator Warren launched a new investigation into the harms of President Trump’s attacks on the Department of Education, seeking information on the impact of the Trump administration’s actions from the members of twelve leading organizations representing schools, parents, teachers, students, borrowers, and researchers.
    On April 10, 2025, following a request led by Senator Warren, the Department of Education’s Acting Inspector General agreed to open an investigation into the Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On April 2, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Mazie Hirono, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Department of Government Efficiency’s proposed plan to replace the Department of Education’s federal student aid call centers with generative artificial intelligence chatbots.
    On April 2, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign to fight back against the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education and highlight the consequences for every student and public school in America.
    On March 27, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led a letter to Acting Department of Education Inspector General René Rocque requesting they conduct an investigation of the Trump Administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On March 20, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders led a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Trump Administration’s decision to slash the capacity of Federal Student Aid to handle student aid complaints.
    On February 24, 2025, in a response to Senator Warren, Secretary McMahon gave her first public admission that she “wholeheartedly” agreed with Trump’s plans to abolish the Department of Education.
    On February 11, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Andy Kim sent Linda McMahon, Secretary-Designate for the U.S. Department of Education, a 12-page letter with 65 questions on McMahon’s policy views in advance of her nomination hearing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 170 companies from all over the world participated in all eight CIIEs

    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

    SHANGHAI, July 25 (Xinhua) — A total of 170 overseas companies and 27 institutions have joined the eight China International Import Expos (CIIE), the organizer of the expo announced at a press conference on Friday.

    According to the organizer, more than 50 countries and international organizations have confirmed their participation in the national comprehensive exhibition, which will be held within the framework of the upcoming 8th CIIE this year. Sweden, the UAE and other countries will act as honorary guest countries, and Kyrgyzstan will participate for the first time.

    This year, the volume of reserved exhibition space for the CIIE commercial exposition has exceeded 330,000 square meters, the organizer added.

    As CIIE Deputy Bureau Director Wu Zhengping noted, companies from Canada, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, Peru and other countries set a record in participation, which clearly demonstrates their confidence in the Chinese economy and enthusiasm for the CIIE.

    This year, CIIE will for the first time include a special zone for products from participating least developed countries. The expo will also expand and upgrade the existing African products zone and launch a “cross-border e-commerce product selection platform” to help overseas SMEs successfully enter the Chinese market. –0–

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Promotes Preservation of World Cultural Heritage Through Cooperation: Think Tank Report

    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

    ZHENGZHOU, July 25 (Xinhua) — China is playing an increasingly active role in preserving world cultural heritage, promoting cooperation among civilizations, according to a report released Friday by the Xinhua Institute, a think tank affiliated with the Xinhua News Agency.

    The report, entitled “Jointly Protecting the Treasures of Human Civilization: China’s Concept and Practice of Cultural Heritage Preservation in the New Era,” provides a detailed explanation of China’s efforts to protect and transmit cultural heritage.

    As a key area, the authors highlight China’s efforts to build cross-border partnerships and promote global heritage conservation activities, including projects to assist countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, such as Cambodia, Nepal, Myanmar and Uzbekistan.

    According to the report, China has also launched a number of regional cooperation initiatives, including the Asian Cultural Heritage Preservation Initiative and the Asian Alliance for Cultural Heritage Preservation, which have received positive feedback and brought together the joint efforts of all parties in the Asian region.

    In addition, the document notes that China has built a global community for the protection of cultural heritage through cooperation in implementing relevant conventions, sharing technologies, training talented professionals, responding to challenges, and mutually beneficial development. –0–

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee met with the Spanish delegation

    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

    BEIJING, July 25 (Xinhua) — Yin Li, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with a delegation led by Catalan regional government head Salvador Illa in Beijing on Friday.

    Yin Li, also secretary of the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee, recalled that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Spain.

    According to him, China is willing to work with Spain to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, deepen inter-party exchanges and inter-regional cooperation, promote the continuous deepening and practical implementation of cooperation in various fields, and promote the development of China-Spain and China-EU relations.

    S. Ilya, for his part, stated that Spain is ready to expand exchanges and dialogue with China, deepen cooperation in such areas as inter-party relations, inter-regional contacts, economics and trade, culture, science and technology, in order to bring more benefits to the peoples of both countries. –0–

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

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Hong Kong SAR, Vanuatu officials discuss strengthening business and trade exchanges

    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

    HONG KONG, July 25 (Xinhua) — Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Chief Executive Lee Jiachao met with Vanuatu Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Management Johnny Koanapo Rasu here on Friday.

    Welcoming the visit of J. Koanapo Rasu and his delegation to Hong Kong to participate in trade and economic cooperation activities, Li Jiachao said the SAR invites Vanuatu enterprises to leverage the city’s role as a “super-connector” and “super-value-added creator” to explore overseas markets and China’s hinterland, and expand trade and business exchanges between the two sides.

    Li Jiachao stressed that Hong Kong is currently making full use of its advantage as a link between China’s interior and the rest of the world under the policy of “one country, two systems” and actively deepening international exchanges and cooperation.

    The SAR chief executive also noted that in addition to strengthening development in traditional markets, Hong Kong will continue to explore emerging markets around the world, such as those in the Belt and Road Initiative countries, and expand trade and economic ties with countries in the Global South, including Vanuatu. –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 USA: RIDOH and DEM Recommend Avoiding Contact with Meshanticut Lake

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) are recommending people avoid contact with Meshanticut Lake in Cranston due to a confirmed cyanobacteria bloom. Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are naturally present in bodies of water, but under certain environmental conditions will form harmful algae blooms?(HABs). All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at this location. HABs can produce toxins which can be harmful to humans and animals.

    Use caution in all areas of Meshanticut Lake as cyanobacteria HABs can move locations in ponds and lakes. People should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected waterbodies.?Pet owners should not allow pets to drink or swim in this water.?

    Skin contact with water containing toxin-producing cyanobacteria can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat. Symptoms from ingestion of water can include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Less common symptoms can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at higher risk for health effects associated with cyanobacteria HABs because they are more likely to swallow water when they are in or around bodies of water. People who have had contact with these ponds and experience those symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.?

    If you or your pet come into contact with a cyanobacteria HAB:

    — Rinse your skin with clean water right away. — Shower and wash your clothes when you get home. — If your pet was exposed, wash it with clean water immediately and don’t let it lick algae from its fur. — Call a vet if your pet shows signs of illness like tiredness, no eating, vomiting, diarrhea or other symptoms within a day. — If you feel sick after contact, call a healthcare provider.

    Affected waters might look bright to dark green, with thick algae floating on the surface. It may resemble green paint, pea soup, or green cottage cheese. If you see water like this, people and pets should avoid contact with the water.

    To report suspected cyanobacteria blooms, contact DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 Press 6 or?DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov?and if possible, send a photograph of the reported algae bloom.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Navy Public Health Nurse Returns from Pacific Partnership Mission in Tonga

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    NUKU’ALOFA, Tonga — Cmdr. Christina Carter, a public health nurse currently serving as Director for Public Health at Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms and Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Twentynine Palms, recently returned from a temporary assignment to the Kingdom of Tonga in June, where she served as part of Pacific Partnership 2025, the U.S. Navy’s largest annual humanitarian assistance and disaster relief mission in the Indo-Pacific region.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Pennsylvania Residents Sentenced to Prison for Narcotics Trafficking

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    One of the defendants also sentenced on unlawful possession of a firearm conviction

    JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – Three residents of Pennsylvania have been sentenced in federal court on their convictions of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute quantities of crack cocaine, cocaine, fentanyl, heroin, and/or methamphetamine, with one of the defendants also being sentenced for unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    The sentences imposed by United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan were:

    Defendant Age Residence Sentence
    Azheem Ellis 49 Philadelphia, Pa. 96 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release
    James Dotson 47 Johnstown, Pa. 180 months in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release
    Sandra Box 59 East Conemaugh, Pa. 33 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release

    According to information presented to the Court, from in and around April 2019 to in and around July 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Ellis conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, and quantities of heroin, cocaine, and crack. During this same timeframe, Dotson conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 500 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, 28 grams or more of a mixture of crack, 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl, and quantities of heroin and cocaine. Additionally, in and around June 2021, Dotson—who had been previously convicted of a felony—unlawfully possessed a firearm. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. Further, from in and around February 2021 to in and around April 2021, Box conspired with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute quantities of heroin and crack. The  defendants were intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drugs that they distributed to others, with Ellis and Dotson as two of the main targets of the wiretap investigation.

    Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of the defendants. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell, Colleagues Call For Investigations Into Deaths of Americans in Gaza

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    07.25.25
    Cantwell, Colleagues Call For Investigations Into Deaths of Americans in Gaza
    Lawmakers seeking accountability for the July 11 death of Saifulla Kamel Musallet, as well as updates into the deaths of 6 other Americans
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined 28 of her Democratic colleagues in the Senate in sending a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Attorney General Pam Bondi calling for an investigation into the death of Palestinian-American Saifullah Kamel Musallet in the West Bank earlier this month, as well as updates into the investigations of other deaths in Gaza, including 26-year-old Aysenur Ezgi Eygi from Washington state.
    “The Netanyahu government has failed to hold anyone accountable for any of these seven killings of Americans and the United States government has failed in its responsibility to protect American citizens overseas and demand justice for their deaths. These failures have made it more likely that more Americans and other civilians will be killed in the West Bank by Israeli security forces or violent settlers who can act with impunity,” the senators wrote.
    “Following the Trump Administration’s sudden revocation of all U.S. sanctions against extremist settlers in the West Bank, the first five months of 2025 have seen the highest rate of settler attacks in years and the killing of another American. We urge you to pursue a different approach.”
    Saifullah Kamel Musallet, a 20-year-old Palestinian American from Florida, was visiting family near the West Bank town of Sinjil on July 11 when he was beaten to death by extremist Israeli settlers. He is the seventh American killed in the region since Jan. 1, 2022 – a list that also includes University of Washington student Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, who was shot and killed by Israeli military during a peaceful protest against illegal settlements in September.
    Following Aysenur Ezgi Eygi’s death, Sen. Cantwell sent a solo letter to President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken calling for a full and independent investigation.
    “The killings of these Americans in the West Bank have been met by a lack of accountability from the Netanyahu government and a pattern of indifference by the U.S. government. These failures have contributed to an unacceptable culture of impunity when it comes to killing of civilians in the West Bank, including Americans,” the senators wrote yesterday. “It is long past time for the U.S. government to demand accountability in these killings of Americans.”
    The letter was led by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and is cosigned by Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Bernie Sanders (D-VT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Peter Welch (D-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jack Reed (D-RI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Chris Murphy (D-CN).
    Full text of the letter is HERE and below.
    Dear Secretary Rubio and Attorney General Bondi,
    We write with grave concern regarding the brutal killing of a Palestinian-American, Saifullah Kamel Musallet, near the West Bank town of Sinjil, on July 11, 2025. The U.S. government must conduct a credible and independent investigation into his beating death and hold all perpetrators accountable. Protecting and supporting U.S. citizens abroad is one of the foremost responsibilities of the U.S. government. The Biden Administration failed to secure accountability for the killing of respected Palestinian American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, or any of the other four American citizens – Omar Assad, Tawfic Abdel Jabbar, Mohammad Ahmed Mohammad Khdour, and Aysenur Ezgi Eygi – killed in the West Bank while they were in office.[1] Following the Trump Administration’s sudden revocation of all U.S. sanctions against extremist settlers in the West Bank, the first five months of 2025 have seen the highest rate of settler attacks in years and the killing of another American. We urge you to pursue a different approach.
    Saifullah Kamal Musallet is the seventh American citizen killed in the West Bank since January 2022 — and the fifth in just the last nineteen months. The killings of these Americans in the West Bank have been met by a lack of accountability from the Netanyahu government and a pattern of indifference by the U.S. government. These failures have contributed to an unacceptable culture of impunity when it comes to killing of civilians in the West Bank, including Americans.
    Saifullah Kamel Musallet, a 20-year-old U.S. citizen from Florida, was visiting family in the West Bank when he was beaten to death by extremist Israeli settlers during a settler attack on the town of Sinjil. Reports indicate that ambulances could not reach the injured for more than two hours because settlers were blocking the area and the Israeli military refused to allow ambulances to pass.[2] In April of this year, a 14-year-old boy from New Jersey, Amer Mohammad Saada Rabee, was also killed in the West Bank. Amer was reportedly shot at the entrance to Turmus Ayya and the Israeli army pronounced him dead after detaining him. Reports suggest that Amer was shot a total of 11 times and two other Americans were also shot in the incident.[3]
    Last year, three other U.S. citizens were killed in the West Bank, including two teenagers. Tawfic Abdel Jabbar and Mohammad Ahmed Mohammad Khdour were both 17-year-old U.S. citizens visiting their families in the West Bank when they were shot and killed in separate incidents. In both cases they were shot in the head while they were traveling in vehicles.[4] The third U.S. citizen gunned down in the West Bank last year was Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-year-old American citizen raised in Seattle who was shot in the head by an Israeli soldier from a distance of 200 meters.[5]
    The Netanyahu government has failed to hold anyone accountable for any of these seven killings of Americans and the United States government has failed in its responsibility to protect American citizens overseas and demand justice for their deaths. These failures have made it more likely that more Americans and other civilians will be killed in the West Bank by Israeli security forces or violent settlers who can act with impunity.
    It is long past time for the U.S. government to demand accountability in these killings of Americans. To that end, we urge you to immediately launch an independent investigation into the brutal killing of Saifullah Kamel Musallet, including the circumstances that blocked ambulances from reaching him. We also ask that you provide us with an update on the status of any investigations into the killings of the six other Americans who have been killed since January 2022, and provide us with a briefing on actions you are taking to ensure accountability for their deaths and to prevent future killings of Americans in the West Bank.
    We respectfully ask for a response within two weeks.

    [1] Lucas, Ryan. “DOJ Silent as Families of Americans Killed in West Bank, Gaza Demand It Investigate.” NPR, 10 Oct. 2024, www.npr.org/2024/10/10/nx-s1-5106059/west-bank-gaza-israel-justice-department/.
    [2] Levine, Heidi, et al. “Palestinian American from Florida Killed in the West Bank, Family Says.” The Washington Post, 12 July 2025, www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2025/07/11/palestinian-american-west-bank-death-tampa/.
    [3]Ott, Haley. “American Teen Fatally Shot in Israeli-Occupied West Bank as Netanyahu Visits Trump.” Cbsnews.com, CBS News, 7 Apr. 2025, www.cbsnews.com/news/israel-west-bank-palestinian-american-amir-mohammed-rabee-killed/.
    [4] Yahya Abou-Ghazala, and Alex Marquardt. “Families of Killed Palestinian-Americans Demand Answers of US, Israel.” CNN, 23 Feb. 2024, www.cnn.com/2024/02/23/world/palestinian-americans-demand-answers-invs.
    [5] Hubbard, Ben, and Gulsin Harman. “At Funeral in Turkey, Family Mourns American Activist Aysenur Eygi.” The New York Times, 14 Sept. 2024, www.nytimes.com/2024/09/14/world/middleeast/turkey-us-activist-killed-israel-west-bank.html.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: Senator Mullin Welcomes Oklahoma Student Leaders to Washington, D.C.

    US Senate News:

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

    RELEASE: Senator Mullin Welcomes Oklahoma Student Leaders to Washington, D.C.

    Washington, D.C. – On Thursday, U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) met with Oklahoma students participating in the Bank of America Student Leaders Summit hosted by the Close Up Foundation. The students shared their goals with Senator Mullin and discussed a variety of topics. Photos below.
    “It is always a pleasure to welcome our great student leaders to the nation’s capital. They are the future of this country and I am encouraged by their enthusiasm and determination,” said Senator Mullin. “I am proud of all of our students in Oklahoma and it is an honor to be in Washington fighting for them every day. My colleagues and I are committed to leaving a better America for them and the generations that follow.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Laurel Lee and Congressman Pfluger Introduce Legislation to Cut LNG Bunkering Red Tape

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Laurel Lee – Florida (15th District)

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Laurel Lee (FL-15) and Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) introduced the Cutting LNG Bunkering Red Tape Act, a bill that codifies a Trump-era Department of Energy (DOE) order clarifying that ship-to-ship transfers of liquefied natural gas (LNG) used as marine fuel—commonly known as LNG bunkering—are not considered exports under Section 3 of the Natural Gas Act unless conducted in foreign waters. The bill is referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

    “The Biden Administration’s harmful energy policies have created unnecessary regulatory burdens that stall innovation and weaken American energy leadership,”said Rep. Lee. “Liquefied natural gas is a more efficient, cleaner, and cost-effective energy source. My bill ensures that LNG bunkering is not hindered by red tape, so that ports in Florida and across the nation can continue to expand, drive job creation, and compete globally.”

    “LNG exports unequivocally benefit our economy, domestic prices, national security, and partners and allies around the world that want our product. Unfortunately, the Biden Administration spent four years imposing one regulation after another on these exports, stifling the energy industry,” said Rep. Pfluger. “This legislation permanently reverses one of these misguided policies to ensure American LNG can compete on the global stage by removing regulatory uncertainty and streamlining the use of it as a cleaner, more efficient fuel source for maritime transportation. I am proud to lead this legislation with my good friend from Florida, Representative Laurel Lee.”

     Background: 

    During the Biden Administration, DOE issued an order treating certain domestic LNG ship-to-ship transfers as exports, subjecting them to extensive federal regulation and public interest review. In contrast, President Trump reversed this position, rightly determining that LNG bunkering within U.S. waters should not be treated as an export. Rep. Lee’s legislation would cement this clarification in federal law.

    Florida is a major hub for marine transportation, including cruise ships and other vessels, increasingly turning to LNG as a clean and modern fuel source. JAX LNG, based in Jacksonville, has been a national leader in LNG bunkering, but has faced unnecessary regulatory hurdles due to shifting federal interpretations

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Tribal Support for Newhouse Legislation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

    Headline: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Tribal Support for Newhouse Legislation

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act alongside Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA), Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) to improve hiring and retention for tribal law enforcement officers in Central Washington and across the United States.  

    Here is what they are saying about the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act: 

    Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, said, “The Colville Tribes strongly supports the ‘Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act. The bill would implement long overdue reforms and remove administrative barriers to tribal law officers enforcing federal laws on their reservation lands. It will also assist the Colville Tribes and other tribes in recruiting and retaining officers, which is critical for rural tribes that have large land bases and not enough officers to adequately patrol.” 

    Jeremy Takala, Law & Order Committee Chairman, Yakama Nation Tribal Council, said, “Bolstering support for Tribal law enforcement recruitment and retention is crucial to addressing the many serious and systemic public safety issues in Indian Country. The issue is particularly pressing for the Yakama Nation and other tribes with large-land bases and a severe lack of resources to adequately patrol such a vast area. At Yakama we are facing an overwhelming confluence of public safety crises. We have experienced a surge in violent and property crimes, the highest rate of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women/People in the region, and a terrifying rise in outside gang and cartel-related drug activity coming onto our lands, including the pervasive and deadly fentanyl epidemic. The recent coordinated, multi-agency drug trafficking interdiction “Operation Overdrive” that dismantled a large drug distribution network operating on the Yakama Reservation shows what is possible when all levels of government work together to make our communities safer. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will help give the Yakama Nation and other tribes the tools and funding necessary to protect our communities and people who live, work, and raise their families on our lands. The Yakama Nation appreciates Congressman Newhouse’s partnership with us and his continued work to address long-standing impediments to Tribal sovereignty and our public safety efforts.” 

    Dustin Klatush, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation, said, “The Chehalis Tribe strongly supports the bill. Our Tribe is fortunate in that we are able to pay our law enforcement officers competitive salaries but competitive retirement benefits are currently out of reach for Chehalis and most other tribes around the country. If enacted, this will allow Chehalis and other tribes to take care of the officers that patrol and keep our communities safe.” 

    Glen Nenema, Chairman, Kalispel Tribe of Indians, said, “Many tribal police departments are chronically understaffed and massively underfunded. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act would level the playing field for tribal police benefits, retirement, and pension, allowing tribes to improve retention and recruitment of officers on tribal lands. Ultimately, passage of the act would help improve overall safety in tribal communities. We are grateful to Congressman Newhouse, Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez, and their colleagues for championing this act and hope the overwhelming tribal support will ensure its approval.” 

    Everett Ekdahl, Jr., Vice President, Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, said, “As a tribal law enforcement officer and an elected tribal leader, I know firsthand how hard it is to recruit and retain law enforcement officers. This bill will make it so much easier to achieve that objective by ensuring tribal law enforcement officers have access to proper retirement benefits. This bill will make our community safer.” 

    Leonard Forsman, Chairman, Suquamish Tribe, said, “The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will provide tribal nations with the tools necessary to recruit and retain law enforcements officers. It shows Congress’s commitment to public safety on tribal lands and the fair treatment of tribal law enforcement officers. We are grateful for Senator Cantwell, Congressman Newhouse, and Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez for their leadership on this important issue.” 

    Timothy Nuvangyaoma, Chairman, Hopi Tribe, said, “The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act represents a crucial advancement in ensuring that tribal law enforcement agencies, such as Hopi Law Enforcement Services, have the support they need to protect those that live and work on the Hopi Reservation. The Hopi Tribe is grateful to Senator Cantwell, Congressman Newhouse, Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez, and their colleagues for their leadership strengthening recruitment, retention, and public safety across tribal nations.” 

    Teri Gobin, Chair, Tulalip Tribes, said, “The Tulalip Tribes strongly and unequivocally support the Tribal Law Enforcement Parity Act. Our tribal law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, and they deserve the same retirement and benefits as their federal counterparts. This legislation is about parity and public safety. We are losing dedicated, highly trained officers because we can’t offer competitive retirement benefits. Passing the Parity Act is critical to keeping our officers on the force and ensuring the safety and security of everyone—tribal and non-tribal—who lives, works, and visits our lands.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Griffith Announces $414,482 HHS Grant to Virginia Tech for Cancer Research

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded Virginia Tech, based in Blacksburg, Virginia, a $414,482 grant. The funding supports cancer research. U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

    “Virginia Tech leads important health research initiatives that test treatments and immunotherapies for cancer.

    “This HHS grant for more than $400,000 helps Virginia Tech pursue a project focused on treating cancer.”

    BACKGROUND

    The funds for this grant were made available through the HHS Exploratory/Developmental Grants program. This program encourages the development of new research activities in categorical program areas.

    The Virginia Tech Cancer Research Alliance, launched in 2019, consists of talented cancer scientists who seek to introduce novel preventions, diagnostics and therapeutics for a variety of cancers.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Salvadoran serial criminal convicted of unlawful reentry after ICE Boston arrest

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON — A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operation resulted in a federal conviction for an illegally present Salvadoran national who unlawfully reentered the United States after having previously been deported. Arsenio Valladares, 44, pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien July 7 at the U.S. District Court for Massachusetts.  

    “Not only did Arsenio Valladares display a blatant disregard for U.S. immigration laws; his presence in our community placed the safety of our residents in danger,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “He has been convicted of several violent crimes and represents a threat to our neighbors. ICE Boston will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing criminal alien offenders from New England.”

    ICE deported Valladares from the United States April 23, 2008. Sometime after his removal, Valladares illegally reentered the United States without permission.

    Prior to his removal, Valladares was convicted of assault and battery with a deadly weapon, assault and battery on a police officer, assault and battery, operating a vehicle under the influence, larceny and malicious destruction of property.

    In November 2024, ICE Boston became aware of Valadares’ presence in the United States after being notified that his fingerprints were taken in connection with criminal charges in Massachusetts. Officers with ICE Boston arrested him on immigration charges March 18.

    Valladares faces to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 at his sentencing hearing, scheduled for later this month. Furthermore, Valladares is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts is prosecuting the case.

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

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X at @EROBoston and @HSINewEngland.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SecAF visits Asia-Pacific to strengthen alliances, assess readiness

    Source: United States Air Force

    Headline: SecAF visits Asia-Pacific to strengthen alliances, assess readiness

    Secretary of the Air Force Troy E. Meink departed July 24 on his first international trip as SecAF, traveling throughout the U.S. Asia-Pacific area of responsibility to reinforce international partnerships and meet with Airmen and Guardians supporting the 2025 Department-Level Exercise. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Labrador Letter: Standing With the Moscow Community After the Kohberger Sentencing

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom Labrador Letter: Standing With the Moscow Community After the Kohberger Sentencing

    Dear Friends,
    This week, Bryan Kohberger received four consecutive life sentences for the November 2022 murders of University of Idaho students Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. Under Idaho law, these fixed sentences mean Kohberger will never be eligible for parole and will die in prison. With this sentencing, a painful chapter closes in one of the darkest moments in our state’s history.
    Four young lives full of promise were stolen from us far too soon—from their families, classmates, friends, and all of us who came to know their names and stories. Their loss is immeasurable, and their absence is felt every day.
    There is no sentence that can bring true justice for this kind of evil. Nothing can undo the heartache or fill the empty chairs at family tables. But this outcome ensures that Bryan Kohberger will never harm another innocent life.
    For more than two years, my office worked side by side with Latah County prosecutors. While Prosecutor Thompson retained full authority over the case, including all plea negotiations, my Criminal Division provided crucial support by handling the complex legal challenges that could have derailed the entire prosecution.
    Criminal Division Chief Jeff Nye led my team alongside Deputy Attorneys General Ingrid Batey and Madison Gourley. Together, they fought off more than a dozen motions challenging the death penalty. They defended law enforcement’s use of investigative genetic genealogy—the first time this technique had been used in Idaho. When defense lawyers tried to throw out the entire case, my team protected the grand jury indictment.
    Each challenge they defeated kept this case moving forward. The genetic genealogy work that first identified Kohberger became crucial evidence. Their successful defense of this investigative tool will help Idaho law enforcement solve future cases.
    Most importantly, their focus on key legal briefing and arguments gave Latah County prosecutors the ability to concentrate on discovery and prepare for trial. Kohberger will spend the rest of his life behind bars at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution in Kuna, where he belongs.
    I know that no matter the outcome this week, no words, legal ruling, or sentence from a judge can heal what these families have endured. My sincere wish is that they have not carried this burden alone and that Idaho never forget the names and memories of Madison, Kaylee, Xana, and Ethan.
    Please continue to keep these families in your prayers—not just today, but in the days and years to come. Their grief does not end with a sentence, and neither should our care for them.
    As Attorney General, I’ll never stop fighting to protect Idaho families. I stand with our prosecutors, law enforcement community, and our citizens to ensure justice is done.
    Best regards,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Labrador Letter: Standing With the Moscow Community After the Kohberger Sentencing

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom Labrador Letter: Standing With the Moscow Community After the Kohberger Sentencing

    Dear Friends,
    This week, Bryan Kohberger received four consecutive life sentences for the November 2022 murders of University of Idaho students Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. Under Idaho law, these fixed sentences mean Kohberger will never be eligible for parole and will die in prison. With this sentencing, a painful chapter closes in one of the darkest moments in our state’s history.
    Four young lives full of promise were stolen from us far too soon—from their families, classmates, friends, and all of us who came to know their names and stories. Their loss is immeasurable, and their absence is felt every day.
    There is no sentence that can bring true justice for this kind of evil. Nothing can undo the heartache or fill the empty chairs at family tables. But this outcome ensures that Bryan Kohberger will never harm another innocent life.
    For more than two years, my office worked side by side with Latah County prosecutors. While Prosecutor Thompson retained full authority over the case, including all plea negotiations, my Criminal Division provided crucial support by handling the complex legal challenges that could have derailed the entire prosecution.
    Criminal Division Chief Jeff Nye led my team alongside Deputy Attorneys General Ingrid Batey and Madison Gourley. Together, they fought off more than a dozen motions challenging the death penalty. They defended law enforcement’s use of investigative genetic genealogy—the first time this technique had been used in Idaho. When defense lawyers tried to throw out the entire case, my team protected the grand jury indictment.
    Each challenge they defeated kept this case moving forward. The genetic genealogy work that first identified Kohberger became crucial evidence. Their successful defense of this investigative tool will help Idaho law enforcement solve future cases.
    Most importantly, their focus on key legal briefing and arguments gave Latah County prosecutors the ability to concentrate on discovery and prepare for trial. Kohberger will spend the rest of his life behind bars at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution in Kuna, where he belongs.
    I know that no matter the outcome this week, no words, legal ruling, or sentence from a judge can heal what these families have endured. My sincere wish is that they have not carried this burden alone and that Idaho never forget the names and memories of Madison, Kaylee, Xana, and Ethan.
    Please continue to keep these families in your prayers—not just today, but in the days and years to come. Their grief does not end with a sentence, and neither should our care for them.
    As Attorney General, I’ll never stop fighting to protect Idaho families. I stand with our prosecutors, law enforcement community, and our citizens to ensure justice is done.
    Best regards,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) Establishes “Model Farm” to Promote Sustainable Agriculture in Kenya

    Source: APO

    Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has completed its Drought-Resistant Agricultural Practices Project in Wajir County, located in northeastern Kenya. Implemented in collaboration with the Wajir County Government, the project established a model farm to demonstrate sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural techniques.

    As part of the initiative, a solar-powered shallow water well, a two-acre open-field drip irrigation system, a shaded greenhouse, and an agricultural nursery with tree species adapted to arid climates were constructed. The handover ceremony was attended by Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, TİKA’s Coordinator in Nairobi Yasemin Cansuz Kurt, local officials, and residents of the area.

    In the initial phase of the project, crops such as papaya, watermelon, various vegetables, and drought-tolerant forage species were harvested at the model farm. Plants like Napier grass, moringa, and sorghum hold strategic importance for livestock farming, which is the traditional livelihood of the local community.

    Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Abdullahi stated, “Drought poses a serious threat not only to food production but also to livestock farming due to the degradation of pastureland. Through this project, we aim to offer our people a new perspective on agriculture and empower them to sustain their livelihoods using drought-resistant farming methods.”

    TİKA’s Coordinator in Nairobi, Cansuz Kurt, emphasized that the initiative goes beyond providing support, it represents a development model focused on long-term transformation. She noted that following the completion of the project, many local residents reached out to TİKA seeking information about agricultural suppliers, reflecting growing interest in sustainable farming solutions.

    About the model farm

    The model farm, now officially handed over to the Wajir Governorate, will serve not only as a production site but also as a center for education and capacity building. Local farmers will receive hands-on training in areas such as irrigation techniques, soil enhancement, tree planting, and organic fertilizer production.

    Through its projects in Kenya, TİKA continues to strengthen community resilience and promote sustainable livelihoods with a particular focus on climate change mitigation, food security, and rural development.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA).

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Women and girls of African descent: Celebrating contributions, recognising challenges

    Source: APO

    This Friday marks the first observation of the International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent, following a declaration last year by the UN General Assembly.

    It recognises their immense contributions to society, but also acknowledges the challenges they face due to the double burden of racism and sexism.

    Although woman and girls of African descent embody strength, resilience and untapped potential, they remain among the most marginalised groups globally due to the intersection of racial, gender and socioeconomic discrimination.

    For example, they suffer alarming maternal mortality rates, according to the UN’s reproductive health agency, UNFPA. Oftentimes, cases are not related to income or education, but rather to racism and structural inequality stemming from a legacy of slavery and colonialism.

    “The good news is these things are not irreversible,” Patricia DaSilva, a senior programme adviser with the agency told UN News.

    “We can fix them. We have the solutions for many of the problems that we are facing in terms of maternal health for women and girls of African descent.”

    Data and solutions

    UNFPA advocates for stronger health systems and investment in midwifery programmes, culturally sensitive training for healthcare providers and improvements in data collection.

    The agency also invests in partnerships such as an initiative in the Pacific region of Colombia, home to large communities of people of African descent.

    “We have worked with the traditional midwives for them to integrate ancestral knowledge with modern health practices. This includes supporting accurate birth registration,” she said.

    “It sounds like a really simple thing, but when you are in a remote community without access to technology, without access to administrative offices, it becomes this really, really important issue.”

    Agents of change

    Ms. DaSilva upheld the theme for the International Day, which focuses on women and girls of African descent as leaders, not just beneficiaries.

    “I think it is important that the international community, the global community, understands that women and girls of African descent are not recipients of aid. They are leaders. They are innovators. They are agents of change,” she said.

    “We have an opportunity and even an obligation and a responsibility to support the efforts to resource their solutions, to elevate their voices and continue to really double our efforts to dismantle the structural barriers that continue to impede their progress.”

    The first celebration of the International Day coincides with the start of the Second International Decade for People of African Descent, which runs through 2034.

    The aim is to take concrete actions to confront the legacies of enslavement and colonialism, deliver reparatory justice, and secure the full human rights and freedoms of people from the African diaspora worldwide, building on the previous Decade, which ended last year.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Attendance of State Minister Fujii at the symposium organized by Sasakawa Peace Foundation and the commemorative dinner for the High-Level Expert Meeting on Japan and Africa Partnerships

    Source: APO


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    On July 25, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. FUJII Hisayuki attended the Special International Symposium titled “Forging a Sustainable Future through Africa-Japan Collaboration”, organized by Sasakawa Peace Foundationand the commemorative dinner for High-Level Expert Meeting on Japan and Africa International Partnerships held at the Meiji Kinenkan and delivered a guest speech. The summary is as follows:

    1. In his address at the Special International Symposium, State Minister Fujii stated that Japan and Africa, both surrounded by oceans, are well-positioned to strengthen cooperation by sharing knowledge and experience to promote economic development through ocean conservation and sustainable use. He further emphasized that the opportunity for dialogue between Japanese and African leaders, as exemplified by this symposium, is highly welcome and will provide valuable input for the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9).
    2. State Minister Fujii engaged in discussions with former African heads of state and other prominent figures at the dinner celebrating the High-Level Expert Meeting on Japan and Africa Partnerships, hosted by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation.

    (Reference) African participants in the High-Level Expert Meeting on Japan and Africa Partnerships

    • H.E. Chief. Olusegun Obasanjo, Former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
    • H.E. Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, Former President of the United Republic of Tanzania
    • H.E. Mr. Jorge Carlos Fonseca, Former President of the Republic of Cabo Verd
    • H.E. Dr. Ibrahim Hassane Mayaki, Former Prime Minister of the Republic of Niger
    • Dr. Geraldine Fraser-Moloketi, Former Minister of Public Service and Administration
    • Dr. Donald Kaberuka, Former President of African Development Bank.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Sudan – From ashes to action: United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) drives grassroots efforts to build peace in conflict-torn Warrap

    Source: APO

    “We are not just numbers. We are the ones losing our homes, being raped, watching our children suffer.”

    Awut Mabior is a mother and community leader in Warrap, one of the states in South Sudan most heavily impacted by intercommunal conflict. For too long, she has watched women carry the weight of war in silence. Now, she is speaking out, not just in sorrow but with strength – the strength of women who are still standing, still hoping, and still calling for justice.

    “It’s women and children who carry the worst pain in this conflict. That’s why we’re begging the government and peace partners to come and see our plight, listen to us, and help us.”

    The United Nations Mission in South Sudan has heard her call, offering a glimmer of hope in a region where too many families have endured the sounds of gunfire and the pain of sudden loss.

    The peacekeeping mission has launched a new project to help equip local communities with the skills and tools to better protect themselves by preventing conflict, resolving grievances, and building peace. The project, which will be delivered by Community Initiative Development Agency, includes establishing 10 community-based protection networks to help the government and security services respond quicker and more effectively to emerging threats.

    It will also build the capacity of civil society members to monitor the security situation and human rights abuses, provide early warning of violence to enable rapid responses, promote reconciliation among warring communities, and engage with local authorities and security services.

    “The aim is to help strengthen protection of civilians, enhance accountability mechanisms for past atrocities, and create a safe and open civic space where communities can actively engage and participate in governance, policy and decision-making processes,” says the UNMISS Head of the Warrap Field Office, Anastasie Mukangarambe.

    The project also includes providing psychosocial support, access to basic services, and a platform for displaced people returning to the area to share their experiences and find healing together.

    “We’re working to protect civilians from violence and to help returnees get back on their feet, especially those who’ve come home with nothing. We also want to open the civic space; so that citizens, especially community organizations, can be part of the decisions that affect their lives,” said Gabriel Pap, from the Community Initiative Development Agency.

    The challenges are multiple and immense in this area, which is plagued by deadly cattle raiding, revenge killings, a lack of basic services, economic crisis, influx of refugees from the Sudan war, and severe flooding which has displaced around 500,000 people.

    For those living with disabilities, the struggle is even more invisible. When violence erupts, they are often the ones left behind—without shelter, without protection, and without a way out.

    “When the fighting starts, we can’t run. We have no way to escape, “says William Deng Nhial, a disability rights advocate. “Just last month, one of our members was shot and killed in his shelter. No one came. No one warned us.”

    Representing state authorities, Benson Bol Yak says enough is enough.

    “We know who is suffering. It’s the elderly, the women, the children, people who have nothing to do with the fighting. Why should their homes be burned? Why should they be killed?” he says. “This project must reach every single person who needs our help.’

    In South Sudan, where conflict has written too many chapters of pain, this new project may not erase the past, but it does open a new page. One where people are not just victims, but agents of change. Where voices long ignored are finally heard. And where hope, fragile as it may be, is once again possible.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Egypt: Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation Discusses Developments in Joint Economic Relations with Norwegian Minister of International Development and Dutch Deputy Minister of Development

    Source: APO


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    H.E. Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, met with H.E. Mr. Åsmund Aukrust, Minister of International Development of the Kingdom of Norway.

    The two sides reviewed ways to strengthen cooperation opportunities between the two countries and discussed a number of joint issues.

    This meeting took place during her representation of the Arab Republic of Egypt at the Fourth G20 Development Working Group (DWG) Meeting and the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Development. These meetings are being held under South Africa’s G20 presidency from July 20 to 25, 2025, under the theme “Solidarity, Sustainability and Equality” in South Africa.

    During the meeting, H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat lauded the Egyptian-Norwegian relations, and noted that the two countries have strengthened and deepened bilateral ties across various sectors, including renewable energy and regional stability efforts.

    H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat highlighted that the extended partnership between the governments of Egypt and Norway has been essential in boosting the economy, developing the renewable energy sector, and creating better opportunities for the Egyptian economy.

    H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat emphasized Egypt’s commitment, with its expanding economy and attractive investment climate, to attracting new foreign partnerships and investments that can drive innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development.

    H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat pointed to the most prominent areas of cooperation with the Norwegian side, which include the oil, energy, gas, maritime transport, shipping, and shipbuilding sectors, in addition to fisheries and aquaculture. She noted that Egypt is keen to expand these areas of cooperation, and highlighted that the Egyptian-Norwegian partnership in promoting investments in the renewable energy sector was a central focus of H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s historic visit to the Kingdom of Norway in December 2024.

    H.E. Minister Al-Mashat added that the shared goals and mutual respect characterizing the bilateral relations between Egypt and Norway represent a model for international cooperation that will be built upon in the coming years.

    She further stated that Norway’s commitment to sustainability and international cooperation aligns with Egypt’s Vision 2030 and green transformation goals.

    H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat pointed out that the cooperation between the two countries in green hydrogen and renewable energy, which includes several prominent projects. These include a green ammonia production project from green hydrogen, a green methanol production project in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, in addition to a number of funded projects in various fields. These contribute to creating decent job opportunities for youth in cooperation with the International Labour Organization and the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and promoting health and combating violence against women in Egypt in cooperation with the United Nations Population Fund.

    H.E. Minister Al-Mashat affirmed Egypt’s keenness to involve the private sector, especially in strategic sectors such as renewable energy, green hydrogen, maritime industries, and technology. She noted that the country provides a stable investment climate, competitive incentives, and access to key regional markets, making it an ideal gateway for Norwegian and other international companies seeking to expand into the Middle East and Africa.

    She also referred to the cooperation between Egypt and Scatec, and mentioned that Egypt and Norway have historically strong economic ties, which have translated into tangible projects benefiting both economies.

    H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat outlined that the new partnerships with Scatec enhance active cooperation between the public and private sectors and development partners, aiming to promote green transformation. She noted Scatec’s contribution to the implementation of the Benban Solar Park, one of the largest solar parks in the world, and the first green hydrogen plant in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, in cooperation with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and other partners.

    H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat also pointed to the efforts of the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation in continuing to support international partnerships and mobilize local and international financing to promote green transformation in Egypt and increase the number of environmentally friendly projects.

    She pointed out that the cooperation portfolio with Scatec includes a number of projects under the energy sector of the “NWFE” program, including the green hydrogen project in Egypt, the green ammonia production project in Damietta, the 1 GW solar power project with battery energy storage solutions (BESS), and a 1 GW solar power plant for the aluminum complex in Naga Hammadi.

    Egyptian-Dutch Relations

    On another note, H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat met with H.E. Ms. Pascalle Grotenhuis, Netherlands’ Vice Minister for International Development, to discuss strengthening Egyptian-Dutch relations and developments in the partnership between the two countries.

    During the meeting, Dr. Rania Al-Mashat affirmed that Egypt and the Netherlands have deep-rooted political, cultural, and economic relations spanning several decades. These relations have witnessed significant momentum and growing cooperation at various levels in recent years.

    H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat noted that the economic cooperation between the two countries has been an important axis in bilateral relations, with the Netherlands providing over 407 million Euros in development financing to Egypt since 1975. This assistance has contributed to supporting many vital sectors, including agriculture and irrigation, health and social affairs, transport, electricity, housing, tourism, education, and local development.

    She stated that the Netherlands is one of Egypt’s main trading partners within the European continent, with bilateral trade amounting to approximately one billion Euros annually. Both sides aim to expand this cooperation and diversify its areas, especially given the available opportunities for economic integration between the two countries.

    H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat highlighted the “Orange Corners” program, implemented in cooperation with the Dutch side and the private sector, to support entrepreneurs in the Nile Delta and Upper Egypt governorates. After the success of the first three-year phase, the program is now in a new cycle extending from 2024 to 2028, reflecting the shared interest of both countries in achieving inclusive economic growth and providing job opportunities for youth.

    The two sides also reviewed developments in cooperation in the fields of water and climate following the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Egyptian and Dutch governments in October 2024, to enhance cooperation in coastal resource management and adaptation to climate change.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: South Africa: Correctional Services Committee Expresses Concern Over Low Success Rate of Legislation to Address Overcrowding

    Source: APO


    .

    The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services today expressed concern over the low success rate of the current legislation in reducing overcrowding in correctional facilities in the country.

    The committee received a briefing from the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) on the use of Section 49G of the Correctional Services Act (CSA) and Section 62F of the Criminal Procedures Act (CPA) applications. Both sections are about strategies to reduce overcrowding in correctional facilities.

    Committee Chairperson, Ms Kgomotso Anthea Ramolobeng, encouraged the executive of the DCS and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DOJ&CD) to continue working together in order to strive for better ways to implement these pieces of legislation effectively to increase the success rate of matters referred.

    Section 49G of the CSA refers to the maximum period of incarceration and provides that the period of incarceration of a Remand Detainee (RD) must not exceed two years from the initial date of admission into the remand detention facility without such matter having been brought to the attention of the court concerned in the manner set out in this section: provided that no RD shall be brought before a court in terms of this section, if such RD appeared before a court three months immediately prior to the expiry of such two year period and the court during that appearance considered the continued detention of such detainee.

    Whilst Section 62F of CPA provides that any court before a charge is pending in respect of which bail was granted, may at any stage, whether bail was granted by court or any other, on application by the Prosecutor, add any further condition of bail. The section further provides that the accused shall be placed under the supervision of a probation officer or Correctional Official. The committee heard that both strategies are driven by the DCS and may result in the reduction of the inmates.

    The committee heard that the success rate under Section 49G of the CSA for the 2022/23 financial year is 1.25% of 12 283 court referrals nationally with the Eastern Cape and Western Cape both indicating a 0% success rate. In terms of 2023/24, the Eastern Cape once again showed a 0% success rate. In the 2024/25 financial year the province had 142 court referrals and only one was successful and in the current financial year it has had two successful court referrals.

    The committee also heard that approximately 40% of the total sentenced offender population are serving sentences above 15 years, inclusive of those serving life sentences. Lifers will typically remain incarcerated for longer periods of time and are sentenced/ convicted of serious crimes. This means that bed spaces will not become readily available, which places more pressure on already overcrowded correctional facilities.

    Ms Ramolobeng said the DCS needs to capacitate and improve the functioning of community corrections so that the courts can have confidence in the system and place more remand detainees under correctional supervision.

    “In terms of the outcomes of Section 49G application, especially relating to the Eastern Cape, it’s a very serious concern. The committee will raise this with the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development that deals with referrals,” said Ms Ramolobeng.

    She said the committee will continue the implementation of both the sections that can address overcrowding in facilities if implemented efficiently and effectively.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • PM Modi expands ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative globally with tree plantation in Maldives

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a strong show of commitment to environmental conservation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu on Friday planted mango saplings in Male as part of India’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (Plant for Mother) initiative and Maldives’s “Pledge of 5 Million Tree Plantation” campaign.

    “India and the Maldives fully understand the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. And we are committed to doing everything possible to boost sustainability. This evening in Male, President Muizzu and I planted saplings, strengthening the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative and the Pledge of 5 Million Tree Plantation of the Maldives Government,” PM Modi posted on X.

    Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting the Maldives and its people, in line with their needs and priorities, and for the peace, progress, and prosperity of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

    Earlier in the day, the two leaders jointly inaugurated the state-of-the-art Ministry of Defence (MoD) building of the Maldives in Male. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, the 11-storey structure stands as a symbol of the strong and enduring defence and security cooperation between the two nations. The building, constructed with India’s financial assistance, is expected to enhance the operational capabilities of Maldives’s defence and law enforcement authorities.

    PM Modi also handed over two Aarogya Maitri Health Cubes (BHISHM sets) to the Government of Maldives. These portable emergency medical units are equipped with advanced facilities, including ICU, operating theatre, X-ray, laboratory, and emergency care systems. Each unit can independently support a crew of six medical professionals and treat up to 200 casualties for up to 72 hours.

    “Presented BHISHM cubes to President Muizzu, reaffirming our partnership in service of the people. Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita & Maitri (BHISHM) is a symbol of India’s commitment to timely and compassionate healthcare support. These deployable medical cubes carry essential medicines and equipment for emergency care,” PM Modi said on X.

    Additionally, the two sides witnessed the exchange of six MoUs in areas including fisheries and aquaculture, meteorology, digital public infrastructure, UPI, Indian Pharmacopoeia, and a concessional Line of Credit (LoC). The new LoC extends ₹4,850 crore (approximately USD 550 million) to support infrastructure development and related activities in the Maldives.

    An Amendatory Agreement to the existing LoC was also exchanged, reducing Maldives’s annual debt repayment burden by 40 percent- from USD 51 million to USD 29 million. Both countries also exchanged Terms of Reference for the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

    In a further boost to developmental ties, the leaders virtually inaugurated a roads and drainage project in Addu City and six High-Impact Community Development Projects in other regions. Prime Minister Modi also handed over 3,300 social housing units and 72 vehicles to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and immigration authorities.

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: SecAF visits Asia-Pacific to strengthen alliances, assess readiness

    Source: United States Spaceforce

    Secretary of the Air Force Troy E. Meink departed July 24 on his first international trip as SecAF, traveling throughout the U.S. Asia-Pacific area of responsibility to reinforce international partnerships and meet with Airmen and Guardians supporting the 2025 Department-Level Exercise. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Protects American Innovation from the CCP

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON – During a U.S. Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee hearing, Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) touted her report that uncovered loopholes and a lack of consistent due diligence standards are exposing hundreds of millions of dollars in sensitive American intellectual property to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
    Ernst emphasized the need for Congress to pass her INNOVATE Act to reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs and safeguard intellectual property from Chinese espionage to ensure America continues to be the world’s leader in developing cutting-edge technology.

    Watch Senator Ernst’s full remarks here. 
    Foundation for Defense of Democracies Senior Fellow Emily Bruyère agreed with Chair Ernst that reforming the due diligence process in the SBIR and STTR programs is an essential step to ensuring that companies receiving federal funding do not have concerning malign foreign ties.
    Bruyère emphasized the need to clawback award dollars if a small business exposes taxpayer-funded intellectual property to a foreign adversary.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: President Trump Promised to End Child Sexual Mutilation — and He Delivered

    Source: US Whitehouse

    During his campaign, President Donald J. Trump repeatedly pledged to end the irreversible chemical and surgical mutilation of our children: “We are not going to allow child sexual mutilation.”

    For years, politicians have promised to end the barbaric, pseudoscientific practice — but President Trump is the only one who has actually delivered.

    This week, Yale New Haven Health and Connecticut Children’s Medical Center announced they are ending their so-called “gender-affirming care services.” They join a growing list of health systems across the country following President Trump’s executive action.

    • Phoenix Children’s Hospital stopped providing puberty blockers and hormone therapy to minors.
    • Stanford Medicine ended sex-change surgeries for minors.
    • Children’s Hospital Los Angeles closed its “Center for Transyouth Health and Development and Gender-Affirming Care.”
    • Denver Health suspended sex change surgeries for patients under 19.
    • UCHealth ended so-called “gender-affirming services” for patients under 19.
    • Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago stopped sex-change surgeries for patients under 19.
    • UChicago suspended so-called “gender-affirming care” for minors.
    • Northwestern Memorial Hospital stopped sex-change surgeries for minors.
    • Rush Medical Center halted gender-affirming care for new patients under 18.
    • In New York City, Mount Sinai and New York-Presbyterian both curbed so-called “gender-affirming care” for minors.
    • In Pennsylvania, Penn State Health, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and the University of Pennsylvania Health System all stopped so-called “gender-affirming care” for patients under 19.
    • The Hospital of Richmond at VCU Health halted so-called “gender-affirming care” for new patients under 19.
    • Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters suspended hormone therapy and puberty blockers for gender-affirming care in children under 19.
    • Seattle Children’s Hospital stopped providing so-called “gender-affirming surgery” to patients under 19.
    • In Washington, D.C., Children’s National Hospital “paused” prescribing puberty blockers and hormone therapies for minors, while Northwest Washington Hospital did the same.
    • Kaiser Permanente paused sex-change surgeries for patients under 19 across all its hospitals and surgical centers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: SecAF visits Asia-Pacific to strengthen alliances, assess readiness

    Source: United States Air Force

    Secretary of the Air Force Troy E. Meink departed July 24 on his first international trip as SecAF, traveling throughout the U.S. Asia-Pacific area of responsibility to reinforce international partnerships and meet with Airmen and Guardians supporting the 2025 Department-Level Exercise. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar Participates in 30th Session of ISA Assembly

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Kingston, July 25

    The State of Qatar participated in the 30th session of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) Assembly, held in Kingston, the capital of Jamaica, from Jul. 21 to 25.

    Representing Qatar at the session was Assistant Secretary of the Standing Committee of the Convention on the Law of the Sea Omar Ali Al Ali.

    During Qatar’s statement under item (8) of the agenda, concerning the annual report of the Secretary-General of the ISA, Al Ali reaffirmed Qatar’s support for the Authority in fulfilling its duties under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) of 1982, and the 1994 Agreement relating to the implementation of Part XI of the Convention.

    He emphasized the importance of balancing the mining regime in the area being developed by the Authority with adequate protection of the marine environment, and adhering to a rigorous scientific approach in this regard, in order to preserve marine ecological diversity and ensure a healthy marine environment for future generations in the interest of sustainable development.

    The Assistant Secretary of the Standing Committee of the Convention on the Law of the Sea welcomed the adoption by the ISA Assembly of the draft resolution to designate a world deep-sea day, to be observed annually on the first day of November. 

    MIL OSI Africa –