MIL-OSI Analysis: Pelvic floor training can help active women avoid exercise-related symptoms

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Holly Ingram, Senior Midwifery Lecturer, Anglia Ruskin University

Are you a woman who exercises regularly? If so, here’s a vital question: do you train your pelvic floor muscles as part of your routine?

If the answer is no, now’s the time to start. It’s never too late to protect yourself from pelvic floor dysfunction – and the benefits go far beyond avoiding leaks.

The pelvic floor is a complex hammock of muscles and ligaments stretching from the front of your pelvis to your tailbone. It weaves around the urethra, vagina and anus, supporting the pelvic organs and helping them stay in the right place.

These muscles are essential for bladder and bowel control, sexual function and core stability. In fact, your pelvic floor works alongside the diaphragm, abdominal muscles, and back muscles in what’s known as the “core canister” or “core rectangle.” Together, they help stabilise the spine, protect internal organs, and support movement, especially in high-impact or strength-based activities.

How does sport affect pelvic floor health?

Many sports rely heavily on core strength. Running, jumping, lifting and full-contact sports like rugby all demand stability, control and muscular endurance. But they also place significant strain on the pelvic floor.

That’s why pelvic floor dysfunction is surprisingly common among sportswomen. Around one in two women in the UK will experience pelvic floor symptoms at some point in their lives – but rates are even higher among female athletes. A 2024 study of female rugby players found that 63% experienced pelvic floor dysfunction serious enough to affect both their performance and daily life, often requiring physiotherapy or specialist support.

Movements such as jumping, running, landing and breath-holding during exertion all increase intra-abdominal pressure, which pushes down on the pelvic floor. Without proper conditioning, these muscles can become strained or fatigued, especially if they’re weaker than the surrounding core muscles.

Endurance sports can also take their toll, causing the pelvic floor to repeatedly contract under pressure. Like any muscle, the pelvic floor is susceptible to overuse injuries and needs time to recover.

Pelvic floor dysfunction can show up in several ways, including leaking urine or faeces during exercise, coughing or sneezing; disrupted bowel habits; a heavy or dragging feeling in the lower abdomen or vagina; pain during sex; a bulging sensation or visible tissue in the vaginal area; and pelvic organ prolapse.

These symptoms may appear during exercise – or at rest – and often worsen over time without the right support or training.

Exercise can help with pelvic floor dysfunction – only if the pelvic floor is actively and effectively engaged. Many workouts target the abs or general core, but if the pelvic floor isn’t included with the same intensity, muscular imbalances can develop. Combined with gravity and high-impact movement, this puts the pelvic floor at greater risk of dysfunction.

The good news? The pelvic floor responds well to training. With regular, focused practice, these muscles become stronger, more coordinated and more resilient – helping to prevent dysfunction and even aiding recovery after childbirth.

How to train your pelvic floor

Not sure where to start? Here’s a simple exercise:

Imagine you’re holding in wind – gently contract your anus.
Next, squeeze your urethra as if stopping a flow of urine.
Now, lift upwards through the vagina.
Hold the contraction for a few seconds (or as long as you comfortably can), then release.

That’s one pelvic floor contraction: well done!

Try doing a few reps at a time, and gradually build up. You can incorporate these into your run, add them to your core workout, or practise them during rest days or cool-downs. The goal is to make pelvic floor training a regular part of your routine.

Your pelvic floor deserves just as much attention as your abs, glutes or quads. If you’re a woman who exercises, training these deep core muscles can boost your performance, reduce your risk of injury and support your overall health now and in the future.

So next time you lace up your trainers or hit the gym, don’t forget your pelvic floor. Your body will thank you.

Holly Ingram 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. Pelvic floor training can help active women avoid exercise-related symptoms – https://theconversation.com/pelvic-floor-training-can-help-active-women-avoid-exercise-related-symptoms-259711

MIL OSI Analysis –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over £17 million financial gains for people in Dundee

Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

Council Advice Services in Dundee have successfully helped secure over £17 million in financial gains for people across the city.

Compared to the previous year, there has been a 37% increase in the total amount of money put back into people’s pocket. This is largely a result of increased collaborative partnership working and more proactive community engagement.

Significant financial gains and benefit claims were made in several key areas over the past year, including:

Maximising benefit uptake with Macmillan Cancer Support – over £2 million
Working with Midwives and Health Visitors to identify and support people eligible for financial support – over £500,000
Pension Credit Take-Up campaign – over £2 million
Partnership work with GP surgeries – over £3 million

In addition, the Council’s money advisers have been working with people who are struggling with debt, offering advice and assistance to help them regain financial stability.

As part of the proactive community engagement efforts, Council Advice Services has been holding clinics directly in local communities. These clinics are available in several locations including Lochee Hub, Broughty Ferry Library, and St Mary’s Community Centre. You can find a full list on our website.

Welfare Rights, along with Brooksbank Centre are co-located in several GP surgeries and to make an appointment, you can call a GP surgery directly to book an appointment. You can find the full list of surgeries on our website.

Convener of City Governance Mark Flynn said: “Getting £17 million into the pockets of people across the city is quite incredible, I know how important it will be to each family or individual to get more money, especially during the cost-of-living crisis.

“The team at the council have been working with partners to extend their proactive outreach work and target people who may be entitled to benefits that they don’t know they are. The outcome of this work is proving hugely successful in improving the financial wellbeing across our communities.

“I want to thank the team for all their hard work and would encourage anyone struggling or know of people who may need more help to get in touch with the council so we can see what support they may be entitled to and see how we can support them.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Aberdeen Art Gallery welcomes one millionth visitor

Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

Aberdeen Art Gallery has welcomed its one millionth visitor since re-opening in November 2019 following its landmark redevelopment.
Eleanor Watson of Giffnock was visiting with her sister and nephew. They were met by Helen Fotherghill, Service Manager – Archives Gallery & Museums, who presented Dorothy with a certificate for an artwork which will be ‘adopted’ in her name – A Ground Swell, Carradale, by William McTaggart, which is on display in the French Impressions gallery. Eleanor also received a goody bag of Tall Ships commemorative items.

Visitor numbers to the Art Gallery swelled during the Tall Ships Races weekend, with the Gallery offering extended opening hours until 8pm during the event for visitors to enjoy the Monsters of the Deep exhibition and Festival of the Sea events.

Councillor Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council’s culture spokesman, said, “The re-imagined Art Gallery, with its outstanding collection, is the city’s flagship cultural venue. I’m delighted to share the news of this major milestone and offer my congratulations to Eleanor Watson on being the millionth visitor. The Art Gallery is a safe, accessible, public space in the heart of the city where you can see great art for free. We want everyone to feel welcome here and we look forward to inspiring and delighting the next million visitors.”

Commenting on being the millionth visitor, Eleanor said, “I’m thrilled and honoured to be the one millionth visitor. This is my first visit to the Gallery, but my nephew Eoin, who lives in Aberdeen, is a regular visitor, and he suggested we come today. I’m delighted to have this beautiful painting by William McTaggart adopted in my name to commemorate the milestone. I’m looking forward to finding out more about the artist and to visiting again when we’re next in Aberdeen.”

Eleanor’s nephew, Eoin, said, “The Gallery has been a very important place for me. I visited with my mother from early childhood. I lost both my parents to cancer at a young age and have been away from Aberdeen for some 30 years. Recently returning to the city I am extremely grateful I rediscovered the Gallery. I have faced a number of personal challenges this year and the Saturday morning Artroom sessions at the Gallery run by Elaine from Grampian Hospitals Art Trust, which I have attended for a couple of months, have shone a light in my life. It is so apt and somewhat overwhelming that walking through the door with my Aunts, showing them where Mum and I spent time together, that Eleanor should be singled out as the millionth visitor since reopening.”

Aberdeen City Council and the National Lottery Heritage Fund were the major funders of the Art Gallery redevelopment, with support from many other trusts, foundations, corporate and individual donors. The much-loved building, which was designed by Alexander Marshall Mackenzie and originally opened in 1885, was completely re-imagined by internationally-acclaimed Hoskins Architects and exhibition designers Studioarc. 

Notable milestones and successes since the re-opening include:

2020 – joint winner of Art Fund Museum of the Year
2021 – only Scottish venue for the prestigious British Art Show 9; named Building of the Year by the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland
2022 – shortlisted for European Museum of the Year
2023 – presented the major special exhibitions Galloway Hoard – Viking Age Treasures (on loan from National Museums Scotland) and Book of Deer, one of the principle antiquities of Celtic Scotland (on loan from Cambridge University Library); named Best Visitor Attraction – Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Thistle awards
2024 – acquired a ceramic pot by celebrated British Artist Sir Grayson Perry
2025 – offered new experiences for visitors – All Fired Up interactive display of studio ceramics and the McBey reference library, supported by volunteers; achieved Gold level Green Tourism Award

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI Submissions: Why do MAGA faithful support Trump if his ‘big beautiful bill’ will likely hurt many of them?

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Alex Hinton, Distinguished Professor of Anthropology; Director, Center for the Study of Genocide and Human Rights, Rutgers University – Newark

Supporters of President Donald Trump demonstrate near his Mar-a-Lago home in Palm Beach, Fla., on July 17, 2025. Joe Raedle/Getty Images

President Donald Trump signed the wide-ranging One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law on July 4, 2025. It focuses on cutting taxes, mainly for households that earn US$217,000 or more each year, as well as increasing funding for military and border security and revamping social programs.

Republicans tout it as providing “an economic lifeline for working families” and “laying a key cornerstone of America’s new golden age.”

Democrat lawmakers argue that, in reality, Trump’s act “steals from the poor to give to the ultra-rich.”

The act is estimated to increase the country’s debt by more than US$3 trillion over 10 years, while knocking more than 10 million people off Medicaid.

About 41.4 million adults in the U.S. receive Medicaid. And 49% of Medicaid recipients who voted in the 2024 election backed Trump.

While 94% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents said in a May 2025 survey that they are worried Medicaid cuts will lead to more adults and children losing their health insurance, 44% of Republicans and Republican-leaning independents expressed concern about this, according to the KFF Health Tracking Poll.

Why, then, do Trump’s Make America Great Again supporters – especially those who will be hit hard by cuts to food assistance programs and health care, including hospitals – continue to support him even as he enacts policies that some think go against their interests? Indeed, over 78% of Republicans or Republican-leaning voters say they support the measure Trump signed.

As an anthropologist who studies MAGA and American political culture, I understand that many of the MAGA faithful believe that Trump is a once-in-a-lifetime leader who is catapulting the U.S. into a new golden age.

Sure, their reasoning goes, bumps in the road are expected. But they think that most of the criticism of Trump and this latest bill is ultimately fake news spread by radical leftists who have what some call Trump Derangement Syndrome, meaning anti-Trump hysteria.

President Donald Trump holds up the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that he signed into law on July 4, 2025, at the White House.
Alex Brandon − Pool/Getty Images

Trump alone can fix it

In the eyes of the MAGA faithful, Trump is no ordinary politician. To them, he is a savior who can help ward off the threat of radical left socialism. They believe Trump’s proclamation: “I alone can fix it.”

Some see Trump’s survival of an assassination attempt on July 13, 2024, as evidence he is divinely chosen to lead the country. Trump himself claimed during his second inaugural address, “I was saved by God to make America great again.”

As I have repeatedly observed firsthand at Trump rallies and MAGA gatherings and heard in my conversations with Trump supporters, many Trump supporters – even those whom Democrats contend will be hurt by the bill – see the bill as a key step to making America great again. Doing so will not be easy and may cause some pain.

But as Trump himself has noted about policies such as tariffs, “sometimes you have to take medicine to fix something.”

‘Fake news!’

Even if the bill may cause some short-term pain, MAGA stalwarts contend, the apocalyptic claims of critics of massive health cuts are hoaxes spread by the radical left media. White House National Economic Council director Kevin Hassett, for example, dubbed the Medicare cut claims “a big fake news story.”

This view, based on my research and observations, is unsurprising. Trump has been pushing the “fake news conspiracy” theory, which holds that the media is part of the deep state, since his first term. He even dubbed the press “the enemy of the people.”

Trump’s fake news rhetorical strategy has been successful in helping him maintain support. Trump supporters take it for granted that negative news coverage of the president is most likely fake news.

The Trump administration frequently invokes this conspiracy theory, including statements with headlines like “100 Days of HOAXES: Cutting Through the Fake News.”

The White House is taking the same approach with the new legislation. In June 2025, the Trump administration issued a statement stating “Myth vs. Fact: The One Big Beautiful Bill” and “MYTHBUSTER: The One Big Beautiful Bill Cuts Spending, Deficit – and That’s a Fact.”

There is already evidence that this depiction is resonating in places such as rural Nebraska, where many residents do not blame Trump for a health clinic that claims it is shutting down due to Medicaid cuts. “Anyone who’s saying that Medicaid cuts is why they’re closing is a liar,” said one woman of the clinic’s closure.

President Donald Trump holds a rally in July 2024 in Harrisburg, Pa.
Spencer Platt/Getty Images

‘Crushing it’ in the Golden Age

More broadly, the MAGA faithful contend, the bill’s critics miss the bigger picture. For the most part, Trump has been “crushing it” while putting “‘W’ after ‘W’ on the board.”

From their perspective, Trump has assembled an all-star Cabinet team that is implementing key pillars of the MAGA agenda, such as restricting immigration, blocking unfair trade and avoiding drawn-out wars.

Trump supporters underscore the president’s accomplishments on immigration. Attempted unauthorized border crossings of migrants have plummeted in 2025, amid a rise in arrests of immigrants.

“Our message is clear,” stated Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, “criminal illegal aliens are not welcome in the United States.”

Gas prices are also down. Trump has followed through on his pledge to supporters to purge what he calls the deep state, by downsizing or gutting entire government departments and agencies.

Trump has clamped down on woke universities that brainwash students, as MAGA supporters see it.

He withheld funding from the University of Pennsylvania until it agreed to ban transgender women from playing on women’s sports teams. Trump also cut $400 million in funding for Columbia University because the administration said it did not sufficiently protect Jewish students from harassment during Palestinian rights protests.

And Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu even nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize in July for his diplomatic work in the Middle East.

Recounting Trump’s foreign policy achievements, one conservative commentator gushed that Trump “promised we would win so much we’d get tired of winning. Instead, the wins keep coming – and America isn’t tired at all.”

Trumpism = Trump

Yet, Trump faces challenges.

A June 2025 KFF Health Tracking Poll found that support for the new legislation decreased when people were informed about its negative health care impact, for example.

Republicans could also face backlash in 2028 after the full impact of the act takes effect and people lose health insurance and other public benefits.

Regardless, I believe MAGA faithful will likely continue to support Trump.

They may argue over parts of his bill, the airstrikes on Iran or the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files.

But, in the end, they will circle the wagons around Trump for a simple reason. Trump created the MAGA movement. He dominates the Republican Party. And there is no Trumpism without Trump.

Alex Hinton receives receives funding from the Rutgers-Newark Sheila Y. Oliver Center for Politics and Race in America, Rutgers Research Council, and Henry Frank Guggenheim Foundation.

– ref. Why do MAGA faithful support Trump if his ‘big beautiful bill’ will likely hurt many of them? – https://theconversation.com/why-do-maga-faithful-support-trump-if-his-big-beautiful-bill-will-likely-hurt-many-of-them-260766

MIL OSI –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: First Northwest Bancorp Reports Second Quarter 2025 Improved Profitability

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

PORT ANGELES, Wash., July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Northwest Bancorp (Nasdaq: FNWB) (“First Northwest” or the “Company”), the holding company for First Fed Bank (“First Fed” or the “Bank”), today reported net income of $3.7 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to a net loss of $9.0 million for the first quarter of 2025 and a net loss of $2.2 million for the second quarter of 2024. Basic and diluted income per share were $0.42 for the second quarter of 2025, compared to basic and diluted loss per share of $1.03 for the first quarter of 2025 and basic and diluted loss per share of $0.25 for the second quarter of 2024.

In the second quarter of 2025, the Company recorded Adjusted Pre-Tax, Pre-Provision Net Revenue (“PPNR”)⁽¹⁾ of $2.1 million, compared to $1.5 million for the preceding quarter and $530,000 for the second quarter of 2024.

The Board of Directors of First Northwest has elected not to declare a dividend for this quarter as part of a prudent approach to capital management. The Company remains committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet and will continue to evaluate future dividend decisions in light of the Company’s long-term strategic objectives.

Quote from Cindy Finnie, First Northwest Board Chair:
“As previously disclosed, the Board has begun a search process for the next full time Chief Executive Officer. We also continue to strongly dispute the allegations contained in the legal proceedings disclosed in our June 13, 2025, 8-K and intend to vigorously defend against them. Despite the volatility of the past few quarters, the Board remains focused on the strategic objectives of the Bank, building on the positive core trends from the past few quarters.”

Quote from Geraldine Bullard, First Northwest Interim CEO:
“Our second quarter included continued modest improvement in several important performance measures, including seven basis points of net interest margin expansion and our fifth consecutive quarter of growing Adjusted PPNR. Commercial business loan recoveries totaling $1.1 million drove a modest provision release during the quarter. The Bank continues to show core customer growth, with loans growing 3% annualized compared to the preceding quarter and total deposits only down modestly despite a $31.0 million reduction in brokered time deposits during the quarter.”

Key Points for the Second Quarter

Positive Trends:

Return on average assets increased to 0.68% for the current quarter from -1.69% in the preceding quarter.
Net interest margin increased to 2.83% for the current quarter compared to 2.76% in the first quarter of 2025, as a result of an increase in the yield on interest-earning assets and a decrease in the rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities.
Efficiency ratio improved to 78.0% for the current quarter from 113.5% in the preceding quarter due to the recognition of a payroll tax credit in the current quarter while the preceding quarter included higher expenses related to the legal reserve recorded.
Customer deposits increased $19.6 million to $1.55 billion at June 30, 2025 from $1.53 billion at March 31, 2025.
Recorded a $296,000 recapture of provision for credit losses on loans in the second quarter of 2025, compared to provisions for credit losses on loans of $7.8 million for the preceding quarter and $8.7 million for the second quarter of 2024.

Other significant events:

In the second quarter of 2025, the statute of limitations expired on employee retention credit (“ERC”) payments received for the first and second quarters of 2021. As a result, the Bank recorded $2.6 million as a reduction to compensation and benefits. A related contingent ERC consulting expense of $528,000 was recorded in professional fees, partially offsetting the credit. The Bank anticipates recording the remaining reserved ERC of $2.0 million in 2028.
During the second quarter of 2025, the Bank consolidated the operations of its Bellevue and Fremont business centers into a new location, the Seattle business center. This consolidation resulted in a one-time increase to other expense of $599,000 for the early termination of the Bellevue business center lease and write-off of remaining leasehold improvements. No additional costs were incurred for closing the Fremont business center. The Bank estimates the consolidation will reduce annual rent expense by $130,000 going forward.
The Company disclosed in its Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 21, 2025, that a settlement agreement was reached in the previously disclosed legal matter discussed in Part II, Item 1 of the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. The Bank continues to vigorously defend itself in the separate legal proceedings disclosed in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 13, 2025.

(1) See reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures later in this release.

Selected Quarterly Financial Ratios:

	As of or For the Quarter Ended															As of or For the Six Months Ended June 30,
	June 30, 2025			March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			2025			2024
Performance ratios: ⁽¹⁾
Return on average assets		0.68	%		-1.69	%		-0.51	%		-0.36	%		-0.40	%		-0.50	%		-0.17	%
Adjusted PPNR return on average assets ⁽²⁾		0.39			0.27			0.26			0.17			0.10			0.33			0.16
Return on average equity		10.00			-23.42			-6.92			-4.91			-5.47			-7.15			-2.26
Net interest margin ⁽³⁾		2.83			2.76			2.73			2.70			2.76			2.80			2.76
Efficiency ratio ⁽⁴⁾		78.0			113.5			92.2			100.3			72.3			96.40			79.35
Equity to total assets		6.82			6.75			6.89			7.13			7.17			6.82			7.17
Book value per common share	$	15.85		$	15.52		$	16.45		$	17.17		$	16.81		$	15.85		$	16.81
Tangible performance ratios: ⁽¹⁾
Tangible common equity to tangible assets ⁽²⁾		6.76	%		6.68	%		6.83	%		7.06	%		7.10	%		6.76	%		7.10	%
Return on average tangible common equity ⁽²⁾		10.10			-23.65			-6.99			-4.96			-5.53			-7.22			-2.28
Tangible book value per common share ⁽²⁾	$	15.70		$	15.36		$	16.29		$	17.00		$	16.64		$	15.70		$	16.64
Capital ratios (First Fed): ⁽⁵⁾
Tier 1 leverage		9.2	%		9.0	%		9.4	%		9.4	%		9.4	%		9.2	%		9.4	%
Common equity Tier 1		12.1			12.1			12.4			12.2			12.4			12.1			12.4
Total risk-based		13.1			13.4			13.6			13.4			13.5			13.1			13.5

(1	)	Performance ratios are annualized, where appropriate.
(2	)	See reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures later in this release.
(3	)	Net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.
(4	)	Total noninterest expense as a percentage of net interest income and total other noninterest income.
(5	)	Current period capital ratios are preliminary and subject to finalization of the FDIC Call Report.

Adjusted Pre-tax, Pre-Provision Net Revenue ⁽¹⁾

Adjusted PPNR for the second quarter of 2025 increased $616,000 to $2.1 million, compared to $1.5 million for the preceding quarter, and increased $1.6 million from $530,000 in the second quarter one year ago.

	For the Quarter Ended															For the Six Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands)	June 30, 2025			March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			June 30, 2025			June 30, 2024
Net interest income (GAAP)	$	14,193		$	13,847		$	14,137		$	14,020		$	14,235		$	28,040		$	28,163
Total noninterest income (GAAP)		2,170			3,777			1,300			1,779			7,347			5,947			9,535
Total revenue (GAAP)		16,363			17,624			15,437			15,799			21,582			33,987			37,698
Total noninterest expense (GAAP)		12,765			20,000			14,233			15,848			15,609			32,765			29,912
PPNR (Non-GAAP) ⁽¹⁾		3,598			(2,376	)		1,204			(49	)		5,973			1,222			7,786
Less selected nonrecurring adjustments to PPNR (Non-GAAP):
Employee retention credit (“ERC”) included in compensation and benefits		2,640			—			—			—			—			2,640			—
ERC consulting expense included in professional fees		(528	)		—			—			—			—			(528	)		—
Costs associated with early termination of Bellevue Business Center lease included in other expense		(599	)		—			—			—			—			(599	)		—
Bank-owned life insurance (“BOLI”) death benefit		—			1,059			1,536			—			—			1,059			—
Gain on extinguishment of subordinated debt included in other income		—			846			—			—			—			846			—
Legal reserve		—			(5,750	)		—			—			—			(5,750	)		—
Equity investment repricing adjustment		—			—			(1,762	)		—			—			—			651
One-time compensation payouts related to reduction in force		—			—			—			(996	)		—			—			—
Net gain on sale of premises and equipment		—			—			—			—			7,919			—			7,919
Sale leaseback taxes and assessments included in occupancy and equipment		—			—			—			—			(359	)		—			(359	)
Net loss on sale of investment securities		—			—			—			—			(2,117	)		—			(2,117	)
Adjusted PPNR (Non-GAAP) ⁽¹⁾	$	2,085		$	1,469		$	1,430		$	947		$	530		$	3,554		$	1,692

(1) See reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures later in this release.

Total interest income increased $308,000 to $27.1 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $26.8 million for the preceding quarter, and decreased $1.5 million compared to $28.6 million in the second quarter of 2024. Interest income increased in the second quarter of 2025 primarily due to an increase in the yields earned on loans receivable, partially offset by a decrease in both the yield earned and average volume of investment securities. Average real estate and commercial business loan balances decreased while average consumer loan balances increased over the preceding quarter.
Total interest expense decreased $38,000 to $12.9 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $13.0 million for the preceding quarter, and decreased $1.4 million compared to $14.4 million in the second quarter of 2024. Interest expense decreased in the second quarter of 2025 primarily due to a reduced volume of brokered certificates of deposit (“CDs”) and decreases in interest paid on customer CDs, brokered CDs and demand deposits. These decreases were partially offset by increases in the volume and interest paid on money market and savings accounts and an increase in the rate paid on advances during the current quarter.
The net interest margin increased to 2.83% for the second quarter of 2025, from 2.76% for both the preceding quarter and the second quarter of 2024.
Noninterest income decreased $1.6 million to $2.2 million for the second quarter of 2025, from $3.8 million for the preceding quarter. The first quarter of 2025 was higher due to nonrecurring income items including a $1.1 million BOLI death benefit payment received due to the passing of a former employee and a $846,000 gain on extinguishment of debt.
Noninterest expense decreased $7.2 million to $12.8 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $20.0 million for the preceding quarter. Compensation and benefits was lower primarily due to the ERC recorded during the current quarter. Other expense for the preceding quarter included the previously disclosed $5.8 million legal reserve.

Allowance for Credit Losses on Loans (“ACLL”) and Credit Quality

The allowance for credit losses on loans (“ACLL”) decreased $2.2 million to $18.4 million at June 30, 2025, from $20.6 million at March 31, 2025. The ACLL as a percentage of total loans was 1.10% at June 30, 2025, a decrease from 1.24% at March 31, 2025, and from 1.14% one year earlier. A release of $2.6 million reserves on individually evaluated loans, partially offset by net loan charge-offs totaling $1.9 million and a small increase to the pooled loan reserve, resulted in a recapture of provision expense of $296,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2025.

Nonperforming loans totaled $20.4 million at both June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025. Current quarter activity included an increase due to a $4.1 million commercial real estate loan transitioning into nonperforming status, large principal payments received totaling $3.6 million and charged-off balances totaling $1.3 million. ACLL to nonperforming loans decreased to 90% at June 30, 2025, from 101% at March 31, 2025, and increased from 82% at June 30, 2024. This ratio increased in the first quarter of 2025 with decreases in balances due to principal payments and charge-offs on loans with appropriate reserves.

Classified loans decreased $663,000 to $30.9 million at June 30, 2025, from $31.6 million at March 31, 2025, primarily due to payments received of $3.2 million and commercial business loan net charge-offs totaling $1.5 million, partially offset by the downgrade of a $4.1 million commercial real estate loan that was adversely impacted by reduced cross-border traffic during the second quarter. Four collateral dependent loans totaling $23.8 million account for 77% of the classified loan balance at June 30, 2025. The Bank has exercised legal remedies, including the appointment of a third-party receiver and foreclosure actions, to liquidate the underlying collateral to satisfy the real estate loans in the largest of these four collateral-dependent relationships. The Bank is also closely monitoring a group of commercial business loans that have similar collateral, with 11 loans totaling $562,000 included in classified loans at June 30, 2025, and four additional loans totaling $686,000 included in the special mention risk grading category.

	For the Quarter Ended
ACLL ($ in thousands)	June 30, 2025			March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024

Balance at beginning of period	$	20,569		$	20,449		$	21,970		$	19,343		$	17,958
Charge-offs:
Commercial real estate		(15	)		(5,571	)		—			—			—
Construction and land		—			(374	)		(411	)		—			(3,978	)
Auto and other consumer		(273	)		(243	)		(364	)		(492	)		(832	)
Commercial business		(2,823	)		(1,513	)		(4,596	)		(24	)		(2,643	)
Total charge-offs		(3,111	)		(7,701	)		(5,371	)		(516	)		(7,453	)
Recoveries:
One-to-four family		—			—			—			42			—
Commercial real estate		20			6			2			—			—
Construction and land		5			—			—			—			—
Auto and other consumer		74			43			52			24			198
Commercial business		1,084			2			36			—			—
Total recoveries		1,183			51			90			66			198
Net loan charge-offs		(1,928	)		(7,650	)		(5,281	)		(450	)		(7,255	)
(Recapture of) provision for credit losses		(296	)		7,770			3,760			3,077			8,640
Balance at end of period	$	18,345		$	20,569		$	20,449		$	21,970		$	19,343

Average total loans	$	1,658,723		$	1,662,164		$	1,708,232		$	1,718,402		$	1,717,830
Annualized net charge-offs to average outstanding loans		0.47	%		1.87	%		1.23	%		0.10	%		1.70	%

Asset Quality ($ in thousands)	June 30, 2025			March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024
Nonaccrual loans:
One-to-four family	$	2,274		$	1,404		$	1,477		$	1,631		$	1,750
Multi-family		—			—			—			—			708
Commercial real estate		4,095			4			5,598			5,634			14
Construction and land		13,063			15,280			19,544			19,382			19,292
Home equity		10			54			55			116			118
Auto and other consumer		410			710			700			894			746
Commercial business		514			2,903			3,141			2,719			1,003
Total nonaccrual loans		20,366			20,355			30,515			30,376			23,631
Other real estate owned		1,297			—			—			—			—
Total nonperforming assets	$	21,663		$	20,355		$	30,515		$	30,376		$	23,631

Nonaccrual loans as a % of total loans ⁽¹⁾		1.22	%		1.23	%		1.80	%		1.75	%		1.39	%
Nonperforming assets as a % of total assets ⁽²⁾		0.99			0.94			1.37			1.35			1.07
ACLL as a % of total loans		1.10			1.24			1.21			1.27			1.14
ACLL as a % of nonaccrual loans		90.08			101.05			67.01			72.33			81.85
Total past due loans to total loans		1.17			1.36			1.98			1.92			1.45

(1	)	Nonperforming loans consists of nonaccruing loans and accruing loans more than 90 days past due.
(2	)	Nonperforming assets consists of nonperforming loans (which include nonaccruing loans and accruing loans more than 90 days past due), real estate owned and repossessed assets.

Financial Condition and Capital

Investment securities decreased $11.9 million, or 3.8%, to $303.5 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $315.4 million three months earlier, and decreased $3.2 million compared to $306.7 million at June 30, 2024. Maturities totaling $11.8 million and regular principal payments totaling $5.7 million were partially offset by purchases totaling $5.5 million during the current quarter. Net unrealized losses were flat for the second quarter of 2025. The estimated average life of the securities portfolio was approximately 7.6 years at June 30, 2025, 6.9 years at the preceding quarter end and 7.8 years at the end of the second quarter of 2024. The effective duration of the portfolio was approximately 4.9 years at June 30, 2025, compared to 4.3 years at the preceding quarter end and 4.3 years at the end of the second quarter of 2024.

Investment Securities ($ in thousands)		June 30, 2025		March 31, 2025		June 30, 2024	Three Month % Change		One Year % Change
Available for Sale at Fair Value
Municipal bonds	$	77,324	$	78,295	$	78,825	-1.2	%	-1.9	%
U.S. government agency issued asset-backed securities (ABS agency)		12,298		12,643		13,982	-2.7		-12.0
Corporate issued asset-backed securities (ABS corporate)		13,105		15,671		16,483	-16.4		-20.5
Corporate issued debt securities (Corporate debt)		55,760		55,067		52,892	1.3		5.4
U.S. Small Business Administration securities (SBA)		7,504		8,061		9,772	-6.9		-23.2
Mortgage-backed securities:
U.S. government agency issued mortgage-backed securities (MBS agency)		96,014		96,642		77,301	-0.6		24.2
Non-agency issued mortgage-backed securities (MBS non-agency)		41,510		49,054		57,459	-15.4		-27.8
Total securities available for sale	$	303,515	$	315,433	$	306,714	-3.8		-1.0

Net loans, excluding loans held for sale, increased $9.6 million, or 0.6%, to $1.65 billion at June 30, 2025, from $1.64 billion at March 31, 2025, and decreased $30.6 million, or 1.8%, from $1.68 billion one year prior. Construction loans that converted into fully amortizing loans during the quarter totaled $6.0 million. New loan funding totaling $47.2 million and draws on existing loans totaling $23.9 million outpaced loan payoffs of $34.1 million, regular payments of $28.4 million and charge-offs totaling $2.4 million.

Loans ($ in thousands)		June 30, 2025			March 31, 2025			June 30, 2024	Three Month % Change		One Year % Change
Real Estate:
One-to-four family	$	387,459		$	394,428		$	389,934	-1.8	%	-0.6	%
Multi-family		329,696			338,147			350,076	-2.5		-5.8
Commercial real estate		391,362			387,312			375,511	1.0		4.2
Construction and land		72,538			64,877			107,273	11.8		-32.4
Total real estate loans		1,181,055			1,184,764			1,222,794	-0.3		-3.4
Consumer:
Home equity		84,927			79,151			72,613	7.3		17.0
Auto and other consumer		280,877			273,878			285,623	2.6		-1.7
Total consumer loans		365,804			353,029			358,236	3.6		2.1
Commercial business		117,843			119,783			117,094	-1.6		0.6
Total loans receivable		1,664,702			1,657,576			1,698,124	0.4		-2.0
Less:
Derivative basis adjustment		(860	)		(566	)		1,017	-51.9		-184.6
Allowance for credit losses on loans		18,345			20,569			19,343	-10.8		-5.2
Total loans receivable, net	$	1,647,217		$	1,637,573		$	1,677,764	0.6		-1.8

The Bank invested $9.1 million into a new bank-owned life insurance policy in the second quarter of 2025 to replace a policy surrendered in the preceding quarter. The Bank received the return of the surrendered funds early in the third quarter of 2025.

Total deposits decreased $11.4 million to $1.65 billion at June 30, 2025, compared to $1.67 billion at March 31, 2025, and decreased $53.7 million compared to $1.71 billion one year prior. During the second quarter of 2025, total customer deposit balances increased $19.6 million and brokered deposit balances decreased $31.0 million. Overall, the current rate environment continues to contribute to competition for deposits leading to increased volumes and higher rates paid on money market and savings accounts during the current quarter. The deposit mix compared to June 30, 2024, also reflects a shift in volume to money market and customer CD accounts while the volume and rate paid on brokered CDs decreased.

Deposits ($ in thousands)		June 30, 2025		March 31, 2025		June 30, 2024	Three Month % Change		One Year % Change
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits	$	240,051	$	247,890	$	276,543	-3.2	%	-13.2	%
Interest-bearing demand deposits		144,409		169,912		162,201	-15.0		-11.0
Money market accounts		484,787		424,469		423,047	14.2		14.6
Savings accounts		227,968		235,188		224,631	-3.1		1.5
Certificates of deposit, customer		450,494		450,663		398,161	0.0		13.1
Certificates of deposit, brokered		106,927		137,946		223,705	-22.5		-52.2
Total deposits	$	1,654,636	$	1,666,068	$	1,708,288	-0.7		-3.1

Total shareholders’ equity increased to $149.7 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $146.5 million three months earlier, due to net income of $3.7 million and an increase in the after-tax fair market values of the available-for-sale investment securities portfolio of $128,000, partially offset by dividends declared of $661,000 and a decrease in the after-tax fair market values of derivatives of $197,000.

Capital levels for both the Company and the Bank remain in excess of applicable regulatory requirements and the Bank was categorized as “well-capitalized” at June 30, 2025. Preliminary calculations of Common Equity Tier 1 and Total Risk-Based Capital Ratios at June 30, 2025, were 12.1% and 13.1%, respectively.

First Northwest continued to provide a return on capital to our shareholders through cash dividends during the second quarter of 2025. The Company paid cash dividends totaling $650,000 in the second quarter of 2025. No shares of common stock were repurchased under the Company’s April 2024 Stock Repurchase Plan (the “Repurchase Plan”) during the quarter ended June 30, 2025. There are 846,123 shares that remain available for repurchase under the Repurchase Plan.

2025 Awards/Recognition
Forbes Best-in-State Banks

About the Company
First Northwest Bancorp (Nasdaq: FNWB) is a financial holding company engaged in investment activities including the business of its subsidiary, First Fed Bank. First Fed is a Pacific Northwest-based financial institution which has served its customers and communities since 1923. Currently First Fed has 17 locations in Washington state including 12 full-service branches. First Fed’s business and operating strategy is focused on building sustainable earnings by delivering a full array of financial products and services for individuals, small businesses, non-profit organizations and commercial customers. In 2022, First Northwest made an investment in The Meriwether Group, LLC, a boutique investment banking and accelerator firm. Additionally, First Northwest focuses on strategic partnerships to provide modern financial services such as digital payments and marketplace lending. First Northwest Bancorp was incorporated in 2012 and completed its initial public offering in 2015 under the ticker symbol FNWB. The Company is headquartered in Port Angeles, Washington.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain matters discussed in this press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, expectations of the business environment in which we operate, projections of future performance and execution on certain strategies, perceived opportunities in the market, potential future credit experience, including our ability to collect, the outcome of litigation and statements regarding our mission and vision, and include, but are not limited to, statements about our plans, objectives, expectations and intentions that are not historical facts, and other statements often identified by words such as “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are based upon current management beliefs and expectations and may, therefore, involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control. Our actual results, performance, or achievements may differ materially from those suggested, expressed, or implied by forward-looking statements as a result of a wide variety of factors including, but not limited to: increased competitive pressures; changes in the interest rate environment; the credit risks of lending activities; pressures on liquidity, including as a result of withdrawals of deposits or declines in the value of our investment portfolio; changes in general economic conditions and conditions within the securities markets, including potential recessionary and other unfavorable conditions and trends relating to housing markets, costs of living, unemployment levels, interest rates, supply chain difficulties and inflationary pressures, among other things; legislative, regulatory, and policy changes; legal proceedings regulatory investigations and their resolutions; and other factors described in the Company’s latest Annual Report on Form 10-K under the section entitled “Risk Factors,” and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”),which are available on our website at www.ourfirstfed.com and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

Any of the forward-looking statements that we make in this press release and in the other public statements we make may turn out to be incorrect because of the inaccurate assumptions we might make, because of the factors illustrated above or because of other factors that we cannot foresee. Because of these and other uncertainties, our actual future results may be materially different from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by or on our behalf and the Company’s operating and stock price performance may be negatively affected. Therefore, these factors should be considered in evaluating the forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. We do not undertake and specifically disclaim any obligation to revise any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements. These risks could cause our actual results for 2025 and beyond to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements by, or on behalf of, us and could negatively affect the Company’s operations and stock price performance.

For More Information Contact:
Geraldine Bullard, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer and EVP
Phyllis Nomura, Chief Financial Officer and EVP
IRGroup@ourfirstfed.com
360-457-0461


FIRST NORTHWEST BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Dollars in thousands, except share data) (Unaudited)

	June 30, 2025			March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks	$	18,487		$	18,911		$	16,811		$	17,953		$	19,184
Interest-earning deposits in banks		69,376			51,412			55,637			64,769			63,995
Investment securities available for sale, at fair value (amortized cost at each period end of $336,206, $348,249, $376,265, $341,011 and $344,941)		303,515			315,433			340,344			310,860			306,714
Loans held for sale		1,557			2,940			472			378			1,086
Loans receivable (net of allowance for credit losses on loans at each period end of $18,345, $20,569, $20,449, $21,970, and $19,343)		1,647,217			1,637,573			1,675,186			1,714,416			1,677,764
Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) stock, at cost		14,906			13,106			14,435			14,435			13,086
Accrued interest receivable		8,305			8,319			8,159			8,939			9,466
Premises and equipment, net		8,999			9,870			10,129			10,436			10,714
Servicing rights on sold loans, at fair value		3,220			3,301			3,281			3,584			3,740
Bank-owned life insurance (“BOLI”), net		41,380			31,786			41,150			41,429			41,113
Equity and partnership investments		14,811			15,026			13,229			14,912			15,085
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net		1,081			1,082			1,082			1,083			1,084
Deferred tax asset, net		14,266			14,304			13,738			10,802			12,216
Right-of-use (“ROU”) asset, net		15,772			16,687			17,001			17,315			17,627
Prepaid expenses and other assets		32,471			31,680			21,352			24,175			23,088
Total assets	$	2,195,363		$	2,171,430		$	2,232,006		$	2,255,486		$	2,215,962

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Deposits	$	1,654,636		$	1,666,068		$	1,688,026		$	1,711,641		$	1,708,288
Borrowings		344,108			307,091			336,014			334,994			302,575
Accrued interest payable		1,514			2,163			3,295			2,153			3,143
Lease liability, net		16,257			17,266			17,535			17,799			18,054
Accrued expenses and other liabilities		27,790			29,767			31,770			25,625			23,717
Advances from borrowers for taxes and insurance		1,325			2,583			1,484			2,485			1,304
Total liabilities		2,045,630			2,024,938			2,078,124			2,094,697			2,057,081

Shareholders’ Equity
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, authorized 5,000,000 shares, no shares issued or outstanding		—			—			—			—			—
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 75,000,000 shares authorized; issued and outstanding at each period end: 9,444,963; 9,440,618; 9,353,348; 9,365,979; and 9,453,247		94			94			93			94			94
Additional paid-in capital		93,595			93,450			93,357			93,218			93,985
Retained earnings		90,506			87,506			97,198			100,660			103,322
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax		(28,198	)		(28,129	)		(30,172	)		(26,424	)		(31,597	)
Unearned employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) shares		(6,264	)		(6,429	)		(6,594	)		(6,759	)		(6,923	)
Total shareholders’ equity		149,733			146,492			153,882			160,789			158,881
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	2,195,363		$	2,171,430		$	2,232,006		$	2,255,486		$	2,215,962


FIRST NORTHWEST BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Dollars in thousands, except per share data) (Unaudited)

	For the Quarter Ended															For the Six Months Ended
	June 30, 2025			March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			June 30, 2025			June 30, 2024
INTEREST INCOME
Interest and fees on loans receivable	$	22,814		$	22,231		$	23,716		$	23,536		$	23,733		$	45,045		$	46,500
Interest on investment securities		3,466			3,803			3,658			3,786			3,949			7,269			7,581
Interest on deposits in banks		520			482			550			582			571			1,002			1,216
FHLB dividends		331			307			273			302			358			638			640
Total interest income		27,131			26,823			28,197			28,206			28,611			53,954			55,937
INTEREST EXPENSE
Deposits		9,552			9,737			11,175			10,960			10,180			19,289			20,292
Borrowings		3,386			3,239			2,885			3,226			4,196			6,625			7,482
Total interest expense		12,938			12,976			14,060			14,186			14,376			25,914			27,774
Net interest income		14,193			13,847			14,137			14,020			14,235			28,040			28,163
PROVISION FOR CREDIT LOSSES
(Recapture of) provision for credit losses on loans		(296	)		7,770			3,760			3,077			8,640			7,474			9,879
(Recapture of) provision for credit losses on unfunded commitments		(64	)		15			(105	)		57			99			(49	)		(170	)
(Recapture of) provision for credit losses		(360	)		7,785			3,655			3,134			8,739			7,425			9,709
Net interest income after (recapture of) provision for credit losses		14,553			6,062			10,482			10,886			5,496			20,615			18,454
NONINTEREST INCOME
Loan and deposit service fees		1,095			1,106			1,054			1,059			1,076			2,201			2,178
Sold loan servicing fees and servicing rights mark-to-market		92			195			(115	)		10			74			287			293
Net gain on sale of loans		44			11			52			58			150			55			202
Net loss on sale of investment securities		—			—			—			—			(2,117	)		—			(2,117	)
Net gain on sale of premises and equipment		—			—			—			—			7,919			—			7,919
Increase in BOLI cash surrender value		485			372			328			315			293			857			536
Income from BOLI death benefit, net		—			1,059			1,536			—			—			1,059			—
Other income (loss)		454			1,034			(1,555	)		337			(48	)		1,488			524
Total noninterest income		2,170			3,777			1,300			1,779			7,347			5,947			9,535
NONINTEREST EXPENSE
Compensation and benefits		4,698			7,715			7,367			8,582			8,588			12,413			16,716
Data processing		1,926			2,011			2,065			2,085			2,008			3,937			3,952
Occupancy and equipment		1,507			1,592			1,559			1,553			1,799			3,099			3,039
Supplies, postage, and telephone		346			298			296			360			317			644			610
Regulatory assessments and state taxes		501			479			460			548			457			980			970
Advertising		299			265			362			409			377			564			686
Professional fees		1,449			777			813			698			684			2,226			1,594
FDIC insurance premium		463			434			491			533			473			897			859
Other expense		1,576			6,429			820			1,080			906			8,005			1,486
Total noninterest expense		12,765			20,000			14,233			15,848			15,609			32,765			29,912
Income (loss) before provision (benefit) for income taxes		3,958			(10,161	)		(2,451	)		(3,183	)		(2,766	)		(6,203	)		(1,923	)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes		297			(1,125	)		359			(1,203	)		(547	)		(828	)		(100	)
Net income (loss)	$	3,661		$	(9,036	)	$	(2,810	)	$	(1,980	)	$	(2,219	)	$	(5,375	)	$	(1,823	)

Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share	$	0.42		$	(1.03	)	$	(0.32	)	$	(0.23	)	$	(0.25	)	$	(0.61	)	$	(0.21	)


FIRST NORTHWEST BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (Dollars in thousands) (Unaudited)

Selected Loan Detail	June 30, 2025		March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024
Construction and land loans breakout
1-4 Family construction	$	39,040	$	42,371	$	39,319	$	43,125	$	56,514
Multifamily construction		14,728		9,223		15,407		29,109		43,341
Nonresidential construction		12,832		7,229		16,857		17,500		1,015
Land and development		5,938		6,054		6,527		5,975		6,403
Total construction and land loans	$	72,538	$	64,877	$	78,110	$	95,709	$	107,273

Auto and other consumer loans breakout
Triad Manufactured Home loans	$	135,537	$	134,740	$	128,231	$	129,600	$	110,510
Woodside auto loans		127,828		118,972		117,968		126,129		131,151
First Help auto loans		11,221		13,012		14,283		15,971		17,427
Other auto loans		1,016		1,313		1,647		2,064		2,690
Other consumer loans		5,275		5,841		6,747		7,434		23,845
Total auto and other consumer loans	$	280,877	$	273,878	$	268,876	$	281,198	$	285,623

Commercial business loans breakout
Northpointe Bank MPP	$	–	$	–	$	36,230	$	38,155	$	9,150
Secured lines of credit		41,043		39,986		35,701		37,686		28,862
Unsecured lines of credit		2,551		2,030		1,717		1,571		1,133
SBA loans		6,618		6,889		7,044		7,219		7,146
Other commercial business loans		67,631		70,878		70,801		70,696		70,803
Total commercial business loans	$	117,843	$	119,783	$	151,493	$	155,327	$	117,094

Loans by Collateral and Unfunded Commitments	June 30, 2025		March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024

One-to-four family construction	$	40,509	$	38,221	$	44,468	$	51,607	$	49,440
All other construction and land		36,129		30,947		34,290		45,166		58,346
One-to-four family first mortgage		420,847		428,081		466,046		469,053		434,840
One-to-four family junior liens		20,116		15,155		15,090		14,701		13,706
One-to-four family revolving open-end		57,502		51,832		51,481		48,459		44,803
Commercial real estate, owner occupied:
Health care		29,091		29,386		29,129		29,407		29,678
Office		19,116		19,363		17,756		17,901		19,215
Warehouse		7,432		9,272		14,948		11,645		14,613
Other		74,364		74,915		78,170		64,535		56,292
Commercial real estate, non-owner occupied:
Office		42,198		41,885		49,417		49,770		50,158
Retail		51,708		50,737		49,591		49,717		50,101
Hospitality		64,308		62,226		61,919		62,282		62,628
Other		93,505		93,549		81,640		82,573		84,428
Multi-family residential		330,784		339,217		333,419		354,118		350,382
Commercial business loans		73,403		75,628		77,381		86,904		79,055
Commercial agriculture and fishing loans		22,443		22,914		21,833		15,369		14,411
State and political subdivision obligations		369		369		369		404		405
Consumer automobile loans		139,992		133,209		133,789		144,036		151,121
Consumer loans secured by other assets		138,378		137,619		131,429		132,749		129,293
Consumer loans unsecured		2,508		3,051		3,658		4,411		5,209
Total loans	$	1,664,702	$	1,657,576	$	1,695,823	$	1,734,807	$	1,698,124

Unfunded commitments under lines of credit or existing loans	$	166,589	$	175,100	$	163,827	$	166,446	$	155,005


FIRST NORTHWEST BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY NET INTEREST MARGIN ANALYSIS (Dollars in thousands) (Unaudited)

	Three Months Ended June 30,
	2025								2024
	Average			Interest					Average			Interest
	Balance			Earned/		Yield/			Balance			Earned/		Yield/
	Outstanding			Paid		Rate			Outstanding			Paid		Rate
	(Dollars in thousands)
Interest-earning assets:
Loans receivable, net ^{(1) (2)}	$	1,639,236		$	22,814		5.58	%	$	1,698,777		$	23,733		5.62	%
Total investment securities		311,078			3,466		4.47			316,878			3,949		5.01
FHLB dividends		13,313			331		9.97			15,175			358		9.49
Interest-earning deposits in banks		46,807			520		4.46			41,450			571		5.54
Total interest-earning assets ⁽³⁾		2,010,434			27,131		5.41			2,072,280			28,611		5.55
Noninterest-earning assets		154,145								147,090
Total average assets	$	2,164,579							$	2,219,370
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing demand deposits	$	164,475		$	240		0.59		$	165,212		$	193		0.47
Money market accounts		444,135			2,660		2.40			405,393			2,420		2.40
Savings accounts		228,901			884		1.55			227,650			915		1.62
Certificates of deposit, customer		451,712			4,396		3.90			400,197			4,079		4.10
Certificates of deposit, brokered		124,383			1,372		4.42			209,566			2,573		4.94
Total interest-bearing deposits ⁽⁴⁾		1,413,606			9,552		2.71			1,408,018			10,180		2.91
Advances		275,176			3,041		4.43			315,375			3,801		4.85
Subordinated debt		34,600			345		4.00			39,465			395		4.03
Total interest-bearing liabilities		1,723,382			12,938		3.01			1,762,858			14,376		3.28
Noninterest-bearing deposits ⁽⁴⁾		243,655								251,442
Other noninterest-bearing liabilities		50,685								41,991
Total average liabilities		2,017,722								2,056,291
Average equity		146,857								163,079
Total average liabilities and equity	$	2,164,579							$	2,219,370

Net interest income				$	14,193							$	14,235
Net interest rate spread							2.40								2.27
Net earning assets	$	287,052							$	309,422
Net interest margin ⁽⁵⁾							2.83								2.76
Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities		116.7	%							117.6	%

(1)	The average loans receivable, net balances include nonaccrual loans.
(2)	Interest earned on loans receivable includes net deferred (costs) fees of ($148,000) and $34,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively.
(3)	Includes interest-earning deposits (cash) at other financial institutions.
(4)	Cost of all deposits, including noninterest-bearing demand deposits, was 2.31% and 2.47% for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively.
(5)	Net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.

FIRST NORTHWEST BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
(Dollars in thousands) (Unaudited)

Non-GAAP Financial Measures
This press release contains financial measures that are not in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Non-GAAP measures are presented where management believes the information will help investors understand the Company’s results of operations or financial position and assess trends. Where non-GAAP financial measures are used, the comparable GAAP financial measure is also provided. These disclosures should not be viewed as a substitute for operating results determined in accordance with GAAP, and are not necessarily comparable to non-GAAP performance measures that may be presented by other companies. Other banking companies may use names similar to those the Company uses for the non-GAAP financial measures the Company discloses, but may calculate them differently. Investors should understand how the Company and other companies each calculate their non-GAAP financial measures when making comparisons. Reconciliations of the GAAP and non-GAAP measures are presented below.

Calculations Based on PPNR and Adjusted PPNR:

	For the Quarter Ended															For the Six Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands)	June 30, 2025			March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			June 30, 2025			June 30, 2024

Net income (loss) (GAAP)	$	3,661		$	(9,036	)	$	(2,810	)	$	(1,980	)	$	(2,219	)	$	(5,375	)	$	(1,823	)
Plus: (recapture of) provision for credit losses (GAAP)		(360	)		7,785			3,655			3,134			8,739			7,425			9,709
Provision (benefit) for income taxes (GAAP)		297			(1,125	)		359			(1,203	)		(547	)		(828	)		(100	)
PPNR (Non-GAAP) ⁽¹⁾		3,598			(2,376	)		1,204			(49	)		5,973			1,222			7,786
Less selected nonrecurring adjustments to PPNR (Non-GAAP):
Employee retention credit (“ERC”) included in compensation and benefits		2,640			—			—			—			—			2,640			—
ERC consulting expense included in professional fees		(528	)		—			—			—			—			(528	)		—
Costs associated with early termination of Bellevue Business Center lease included in other expense		(599	)		—			—			—			—			(599	)		—
Bank-owned life insurance (“BOLI”) death benefit		—			1,059			1,536			—			—			1,059			—
Gain on extinguishment of subordinated debt included in other income		—			846			—			—			—			846			—
Legal reserve		—			(5,750	)		—			—			—			(5,750	)		—
Equity investment repricing adjustment		—			—			(1,762	)		—			—			—			651
One-time compensation payouts related to reduction in force		—			—			—			(996	)		—			—			—
Net gain on sale of premises and equipment		—			—			—			—			7,919			—			7,919
Sale leaseback taxes and assessments included in occupancy and equipment		—			—			—			—			(359	)		—			(359	)
Net loss on sale of investment securities		—			—			—			—			(2,117	)		—			(2,117	)
Adjusted PPNR (Non-GAAP) ⁽¹⁾	$	2,085		$	1,469		$	1,430		$	947		$	530		$	3,554		$	1,692

Average total assets (GAAP)	$	2,164,579		$	2,174,748		$	2,205,502		$	2,209,333		$	2,219,370		$	2,169,621		$	2,192,779
GAAP Ratio:
Return on average assets (GAAP)		0.68	%		-1.69	%		-0.51	%		-0.36	%		-0.40	%		-0.50	%		-0.17	%
Non-GAAP Ratios:
PPNR return on average assets (Non-GAAP) ⁽¹⁾		0.67	%		-0.44	%		0.22	%		-0.01	%		1.08	%		0.11	%		0.71	%
Adjusted PPNR return on average assets (Non-GAAP) ⁽¹⁾		0.39	%		0.27	%		0.26	%		0.17	%		0.10	%		0.33	%		0.16	%

(1)

PPNR removes the provisions for credit loss and income tax from net income. This removes potentially volatile estimates, providing a comparative amount limited to income and expense recorded during the period. Adjusted PPNR further removes large nonrecurring transactions recorded during the period. We believe these metrics provide comparative amounts for a better review of recurring net revenue.


FIRST NORTHWEST BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (Dollars in thousands) (Unaudited)

Calculations Based on Tangible Common Equity:

	For the Quarter Ended															For the Six Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)	June 30, 2025			March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			June 30, 2025			June 30, 2024

Total shareholders’ equity	$	149,733		$	146,492		$	153,882		$	160,789		$	158,881		$	149,733		$	158,881
Less: Goodwill and other intangible assets		1,081			1,082			1,082			1,083			1,084			1,081			1,084
Disallowed non-mortgage loan servicing rights		372			415			423			489			517			372			517
Total tangible common equity	$	148,280		$	144,995		$	152,377		$	159,217		$	157,280		$	148,280		$	157,280

Total assets	$	2,195,363		$	2,171,430		$	2,232,006		$	2,255,486		$	2,215,962		$	2,195,363		$	2,215,962
Less: Goodwill and other intangible assets		1,081			1,082			1,082			1,083			1,084			1,081			1,084
Disallowed non-mortgage loan servicing rights		372			415			423			489			517			372			517
Total tangible assets	$	2,193,910		$	2,169,933		$	2,230,501		$	2,253,914		$	2,214,361		$	2,193,910		$	2,214,361

Average shareholders’ equity	$	146,857		$	156,470		$	161,560		$	160,479		$	163,079		$	151,620		$	162,473
Less: Average goodwill and other intangible assets		1,081			1,082			1,083			1,084			1,085			1,082			1,085
Average disallowed non-mortgage loan servicing rights		415			423			489			517			489			419			485
Total average tangible common equity	$	145,361		$	154,965		$	159,988		$	158,878		$	161,505		$	150,119		$	160,903

Net income (loss)	$	3,661		$	(9,036	)	$	(2,810	)	$	(1,980	)	$	(2,219	)	$	(5,375	)	$	(1,823	)
Common shares outstanding		9,444,963			9,440,618			9,353,348			9,365,979			9,453,247			9,444,963			9,453,247
GAAP Ratios:
Equity to total assets		6.82	%		6.75	%		6.89	%		7.13	%		7.17	%		6.82	%		7.17	%
Return on average equity		10.00	%		-23.42	%		-6.92	%		-4.91	%		-5.47	%		-7.15	%		-2.26	%
Book value per common share	$	15.85		$	15.52		$	16.45		$	17.17		$	16.81		$	15.85		$	16.81
Non-GAAP Ratios:
Tangible common equity to tangible assets ⁽¹⁾		6.76	%		6.68	%		6.83	%		7.06	%		7.10	%		6.76	%		7.10	%
Return on average tangible common equity ⁽¹⁾		10.10	%		-23.65	%		-6.99	%		-4.96	%		-5.53	%		-7.22	%		-2.28	%
Tangible book value per common share ⁽¹⁾	$	15.70		$	15.36		$	16.29		$	17.00		$	16.64		$	15.70		$	16.64

(1	)	We believe that the use of tangible equity and tangible assets improves the comparability to other institutions that have not engaged in acquisitions that resulted in recorded goodwill and other intangibles.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c85e4dc5-66aa-4a20-9353-c1b9da5ac869

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e8d326aa-0fde-4c3c-954f-bb809e7c276c

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f24035e8-5a6e-4f39-a0db-93ca11dc39d5

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c29167d1-36df-44c1-9e51-889b5be4fb96

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ae6ceb7f-9f7a-4a77-b835-146a0638be30

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5ba4f507-769e-4e54-acdb-4aed9253c967

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/66e51144-1d2d-4c3f-ae91-2192cc90a887

The MIL Network –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK-India Technology Security Initiative – Anniversary Statement

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

UK-India Technology Security Initiative – Anniversary Statement

Statement on the one-year anniversary of the landmark UK-India Technology Security Initiative

On the occasion of the one-year anniversary of the landmark UK-India Technology Security Initiative (TSI), the UK and India reaffirmed their shared commitment to harness frontier technologies to drive economic growth and strengthen national security.

Both parties welcomed the Initiative’s achievements to date and underscored the transformative potential of the TSI to deliver cutting-edge innovations and generate investment across the entire technology value chain.

The TSI has already enabled industry, academia and government to deliver new strategic opportunities. Over the past year, both sides have:

Launched a flagship £7 million joint research programme on Future Telecoms in 2024 to support joint Open RAN and 5G/6G testbed development.
Formalised collaboration between key telecoms lab facilities – India’s Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and the UK’s Smart RAN Open Network Interoperability Centre (SONIC) for bilateral collaboration in telecom innovation, testing and emerging technology.
Accelerated development in responsible and trustworthy AI, including through the first UK-India Conference on AI opportunities, held in Bengaluru in February 2025.
Completed the successful first phase of the world’s first UK-India Critical Minerals Supply Chain Observatory. Phase Two, supported by £1.8 million of new funding, will deliver the world’s largest digital data infrastructure on the critical minerals value chain and establish a new satellite campus at the Indian School of Mines in Dhanbad.
Strengthened our partnership in FEMTECH – Women-Orientated Health Tech by collaboration between National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
Initiated several new partnerships between private sector from both sides in the fields of Telecoms, Critical Minerals, Advanced Materials and AI.

To further our strategic collaboration, both sides will:

Harness together, the benefits of the global AI revolution and boost economic growth through a UK-India joint centre for AI that will promote trusted real world AI innovations and widespread adoption.
Advance next generation, secure-by-design telecommunications through joint research, development and innovation, strategically collaborating on advanced connectivity and cyber resilience. Establish an India-UK Connectivity and Innovation Centre to pioneer AI-driven telecoms, non-terrestrial networks and secure 5G and 6G. Work together through international fora like ITU and 3GPP for 6G.
Secure resilient and sustainable critical mineral supply chains to power the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Establish a UK-India Critical Minerals Guild to transform financing standards and innovation. Together, the two sides will prioritise processing, R&D, recycling, managing risk to supply chains, market development etc. and will champion circular economy principles and advance traceability.
Use the UK-India biotechnology partnership to unlock the potential in biofoundries, bioprinting, biomanufacturing, bio-based materials, advanced biosciences and drive innovation across health, clean energy and sustainable agriculture. Explore the possibility of setting up a UK-India Biotechnology Accelerator.

The UK and India continue to work together across other TSI commitments including the collaboration on Graphene and 2D Materials Technology.
In recognition of the TSI’s success, the two leaders agreed to expand the TSI into new frontier domains, particularly to unlock engagement on futuristic, secure and strategic technologies. This expansion will further align UK and Indian national security priorities and unlock new opportunities for industry and researchers.

Both parties called on industry, including start-ups and academia to further catalyse the UK-India technology partnership and to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the TSI.

Published 24 July 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mirvetuximab soravtansine approved to treat adult patients who have ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Mirvetuximab soravtansine approved to treat adult patients who have ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer

The approval is supported by a study involving 453 adults with advanced platinum-resistant cancers of the ovary, fallopian tubes and the peritoneum that were FRα positive

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has today (24 July 2025) approved the medicine mirvetuximab soravtansine (Elahere) to treat adults with ovarian cancer, fallopian tube cancer, and primary peritoneal cancer.

It is used in patients whose cancer cells have a protein on the surface known as folate receptor-alpha (FRα), and who have previously not responded to or are no longer responding to treatment with ‘platinum-based’ chemotherapy, and who have already received one to three prior treatments.

Mirvetuximab soravtansine has been approved via the International Recognition Procedure (IRP).

Julian Beach, MHRA Interim Executive Director, Healthcare Quality and Access, said:

Keeping patients safe and enabling their access to high quality, safe and effective medical products are key priorities for us.

We are committed to making innovative treatment options, like mirvetuximab soravtansine, the first and only folate receptor-alpha (FRα) directed antibody drug conjugate, available to patients as quickly as possible, ensuring our approval is underpinned by robust evidence of efficacy alongside the highest standards of safety.

We’re assured that the appropriate regulatory standards for the approval of mirvetuximab soravtansine have been met.

As with all products, we will keep its safety under close review.

Mirvetuximab soravtansine is administered as a concentrated solution for infusion, and the route of administration is intravenous infusion (into a vein). The medicine will be given to the patient by a doctor or a nurse experienced in using cancer medicines.

The patient’s doctor will calculate the dose based on the patient’s body weight. The patient’s doctor will decide how many cycles the patient needs.

Mirvetuximab soravtansine is made up of a monoclonal antibody which is attached to a cancer medicine. The monoclonal antibody is a protein that recognises and attaches to the FRα protein on the cancer cells. When this happens, mirvetuximab soravtansine enters the cancer cell and releases the cancer medicine DM4. DM4 then interferes with the normal growth process of the cancer cells which results in death of the cancer cells.

This approval is supported by evidence from a study involving 453 adults with advanced platinum-resistant cancers of the ovary, fallopian tubes and the peritoneum that were FRα positive. In this study, mirvetuximab soravtansine was compared with standard chemotherapy treatment. Patients who received mirvetuximab soravtansine lived on average for around 5.6 months without their disease getting worse while those who received standard treatment lived for around 4 months without their disease getting worse. In addition, patients who received mirvetuximab soravtansine lived longer (around 16.5 months) compared to those given standard treatment (around 12.8 months).

The most common side effects of the medicine (which may affect more than 1 in 10 people) include blurred vision, nausea (feeling sick), diarrhoea, tiredness, abdominal pain (belly pain), keratopathy (damage to the cornea, the transparent layer in front of the eye that covers the pupil and iris), dry eye, constipation, vomiting, decreased appetite, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage in arms and legs), headache, weakness, increased liver enzyme levels (in the blood) and joint pain.

As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of mirvetuximab soravtansine under close review. Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this medicine are encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the Yellow Card scheme, either through the website (https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/) or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card.

Notes to editors 

The new marketing authorisation was granted on 24 July 2025 to AbbVie Ltd.
More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval.
More information on the International Recognition Procedure can be found here
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks. 
The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care. 
For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

Published 24 July 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Gary Crowe is appointed as new Non-executive Director at GAD

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments

News story

Gary Crowe is appointed as new Non-executive Director at GAD

Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, James Murray MP has appointed Gary Crowe as a Non-executive Director of the Government Actuary’s Department.

Gary Crowe brings extensive experience across the financial services, education and healthcare sectors, with expertise in digital transformation, risk and strategy.

He was recently Professor of Innovation Leadership at Keele University Management School and is an experienced non-executive director (NED). Gary has chaired a range of committees including Finance, Audit, Risk, Investments, and People & Nominations.

He will be appointed for a 3-year term, starting on 1 August, as NED to the Government Actuary’s Department (GAD). Gary will replace Ian Wilson whose term on the Board is coming to an end later this year.

Les Philpott, Non-executive Director and Board Chair said :

“I am delighted at Gary’s appointment to our Board. Gary brings exceptional breadth and depth of experience, having served on 2 NHS Trust boards as well as holding senior roles across consultancy, financial services, and commercial, retail and private banking. His background spans both public and private sectors, and he has led digital transformation in complex, highly regulated environments, always underpinned by robust governance, financial, and risk management expertise.

“As Chair of the Audit and Risk Assurance Committee for the Human Tissue Authority, Gary has demonstrated a strong capacity for oversight and assurance in demanding regulatory contexts. His appointment will significantly strengthen our Board’s ability to provide strategic guidance and effective oversight. I look forward to welcoming him and working together to advance the department’s objectives.”

Fiona Dunsire, Government Actuary said:

“We are very pleased to be able to welcome Gary to GAD as our new non-executive director. His extensive background in innovation leadership and digital transformation, combined with his health and workforce experience as a non-executive director within the NHS, will be invaluable as we continue to evolve our services and support government departments in addressing complex national challenges. I’m confident Gary will make a valuable contribution to GAD’s continued success in serving the public sector.”

Gary Crowe added:

“I’m honoured to be appointed as non-executive director at GAD and look forward to contributing to the department’s important work in supporting the public sector. Having worked across various sectors in consultancy and innovation roles, I understand the critical importance of robust actuarial analysis in helping government make informed decisions about financial risk and uncertainty. I’m excited to work with the talented team at GAD to ensure we continue to broaden the impact of the department in supporting government growth objectives and delivering the highest standards of professional service to our clients.”

About Gary Crowe

Gary Crowe brings significant strategic and commercial expertise to the Government Actuary’s Department, with a strong track record in public service.

He currently serves as Chair of the Audit and Risk Assurance Committee for the Human Tissue Authority (term ending September 2025), is the Local Chair for the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust and Vice-Chair of University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust.

He has previously advised on commercial digital innovation as a management consultant with PA Consulting and during 30 years in financial services. Most recently, Gary was Professor of Innovation Leadership at Keele University Management School.

About the appointment process

GAD applies technical skills from the actuarial profession, consultancy discipline, high standards of professionalism and industry sector knowledge to help solve financial challenges faced by the UK public sector, helping our clients to understand and analyse financial risk and uncertainty for a wide range of contemporary issues.

Gary Crowe was appointed following an open recruitment process in line with public appointment procedures.

He confirmed that he has not undertaken any political activity within the previous 5 years.

Published 24 July 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Office of the Governor — Travel Release — Gov. Green to Attend NGA Summer Meeting in Colorado

Source: US State of Hawaii

Office of the Governor — Travel Release — Gov. Green to Attend NGA Summer Meeting in Colorado

Posted on Jul 23, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom, Office of the Governor Press Releases

STATE OF HAWAIʻI
KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA

GOVERNOR GREEN TO ATTEND NATIONAL GOVERNORS ASSOCIATION SUMMER MEETING IN COLORADO

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 23, 2025

HONOLULU – Governor Josh Green, M.D., will travel to Colorado for the National Governors Association (NGA) 2025 Summer Meeting on Wednesday, July 23. He will participate in panel discussions with education experts, economists and business leaders. As one of the NGA’s Public Health and Disaster Task Force co–chairs with Vermont Governor Phil Scott, Governor Green will facilitate a discussion with Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. The session will cover how potential changes to federal health programs could affect states. He will return to Hawai‘i Sunday, July 27, 2025.

Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke will serve as acting Governor from the evening of July 23 until the afternoon of July 27.

# # #

Media Contacts:
Erika Engle
Press Secretary
Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i
Office: 808-586-0120
Email: [email protected]

Makana McClellan
Director of Communications
Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi
Cell: 808-265-0083
Email: [email protected]

MIL OSI USA News –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI NGOs: Iran/Israel: Iranian forces’ use of cluster munition in ’12 day war’ violated international humanitarian law

Source: Amnesty International –

Unlawful ballistic missile strikes utilising cluster munitions landed in residential areas in Israel

‘Cluster munitions are inherently indiscriminate weapons that must never be used’ – Erika Guevara Rosas

The Iranian forces’ use of cluster munitions during the ‘12 Day War’ with Israel was a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law, Amnesty International said today.

Last month, the Iranian forces fired ballistic missiles whose warheads contained submunitions into populated residential areas of Israel, in attacks endangering civilians. Amnesty analysed photos and videos showing cluster munitions that, according to media reports, struck inside the Gush Dan metropolitan area around Tel Aviv on 19 June.

In addition, the cities of Beersheba, southern Israel (20 June), and Rishon LeZion, to the south of Tel Aviv (22 June), were also struck with ordnance that left multiple impact craters consistent with the submunitions seen in Gush Dan. Such submunitions hit a school and basketball court in Beersheba, but no deaths or injuries were reported.

Erika Guevara Rosas, Amnesty International’s Senior Director for Research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns, said:

“Cluster munitions are inherently indiscriminate weapons that must never be used. By using such weapons in or near populated residential areas, Iranian forces endangered civilian lives and demonstrated clear disregard for international humanitarian law.

“Civilians, particularly children, are most at risk of injury or death from unexploded submunitions. Iranian forces’ deliberate use of such inherently indiscriminate weapons is a blatant violation of international humanitarian law.”

Customary international humanitarian law prohibits the use of inherently indiscriminate weapons, and launching indiscriminate attacks that kill or injure civilians constitutes a war crime.

Cluster munitions are conventional ordnance designed to disperse or release small explosive submunitions. Typically, such submunitions are launched and dispersed by rockets, artillery, or air-dropped containers, scattering ordnance over a wide area, sometimes as large as a football pitch, which often remain unexploded.

According to media reports, the warheads deployed by Iranian forces against Israel dispersed their payload several kilometres above the ground, spreading their submunitions over a very large area.

Many systems have high “dud” rates, leaving large areas contaminated with unexploded ordnance which can remain lethal for years or even decades after a conflict has ended.

The Convention on Cluster Munitions, which entered into force on 1 August 2010, bans the use, production, stockpiling and transfer of cluster munitions. Amnesty has called on all states that have not acceded to the Convention on Cluster Munitions, including Iran and Israel, to become a party to it and strictly comply with its terms.

Amnesty sent questions regarding the use of cluster munitions to the Iranian authorities on 15 July. At the time of publication, no response had yet been received.

Missiles fired at Israel

On 19 June, media reported that the Israeli military announced that Iranian forces had fired “a missile that contained cluster submunitions at a densely populated civilian area” in central Israel, and that approximately 20 submunitions fell over an estimated eight-kilometre radius.

Amnesty’s weapon experts were able to identify an unexploded submunition apparently found in the Gush Dan metropolitan area on 19 June. Amnesty could not independently establish where this submunition landed.

According to Haaretz, another cluster munition struck the top floor of a home in Azor shortly after 7am where a man and his son had been asleep. The father and son were woken up by sirens and managed to reach a safe room downstairs just before the submunition hit.

Amnesty’s weapons experts identified the submunitions (above) from images shared by the media, which cited Israeli military’s Home Front Command.

Furthermore, media reports of simultaneous impacts in Beersheba on 20 June seemingly indicate that cluster munitions were also used in that area. Among the several locations that were hit, Amnesty was able to verify that a submunition hit the basketball court of Gevim School in Beersheba. No deaths or injuries were reported. However, due to the high dud rate, there is the possibility that unexploded munitions not yet found could cause death or injury in the future.

Israeli media also reported a cluster munitions strike on Rishon LeZion on 22 June. Amnesty analysed photographs of a crater in a residential street, which was consistent with impact craters left by submunitions used in the attack on the Gush Dan area.

The ballistic missiles used by Iranian forces proved wildly inaccurate, and thus completely inappropriate for use near or in civilian residential areas. For example, an analysis of the October 2024 ballistic missiles strikes by Iranian forces against Israel showed that the missiles missed their intended target by an average of half-a-kilometre or more.

International humanitarian law prohibits indiscriminate attacks, including through the use of weapons which cannot be directed at a specific military objective.

Fin-stabilised submunitions

While it has not been possible to determine precisely what kind of ballistic missile was used in these three attacks, the submunitions it dispersed bear a striking resemblance to a fin-stabilised submunition that appeared to have landed in the city of Gorgan, Golestan province, in Iran on 18 September 2023, following a failed missile test. Two citizens were reportedly injured.

A picture of the submunition was published by Mashregh News, a news organisation in Iran, amid widespread reports of multiple explosions being heard and ordnance landing in and around the city. The Iranian authorities did not acknowledge testing cluster munitions; instead, Iran’s Ministry of Defence announced on 18 September 2023 that: “During a research test of offensive and drone systems conducted in a desert area, one of the systems under testing experienced a technical malfunction, veered off its intended path, and disintegrated, with parts of it falling in areas of the city of Gorgan.”

The cluster munitions used by the Iranian forces also bear external resemblance to those showcased during defence exhibitions in Tehran in 2016.

Civilians killed

During the escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran, at least 1,100 people were killed in Iran, including at least 132 women and 45 children, according to Iran’s Foundation for Martyrs and Veterans Affairs. Amnesty is calling for Israel’s attack on Evin prison in Tehran on 23 June that killed and injured scores of civilians, including a child, to be investigated as a war crime following an in-depth investigation.

At least 29 people, including women and children, were killed as a result of Iranian attacks in Israel, according to the Israeli Health Ministry. In one of the deadliest incidents, four members of the same family – three women and one child – were killed by an Iranian missile that hit the Palestinian town of Tamra in northern Israel on 14 June.

MIL OSI NGO –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI United Nations: 24 July 2025 Departmental update WHO unveils health and environment scorecards for 194 countries

Source: World Health Organisation

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released the 2024 update of its health and environment country scorecards, assessing how countries are managing eight major environmental threats to health across sectors. These threats include air pollution, unsafe water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), climate change, loss of biodiversity, exposure to chemicals, and radiation, occupational risks, and environmental risks in and around health care facilities. This year’s edition also introduces a new summary score, offering a concise snapshot of how environmental conditions are impacting people’s health.

WHO’s health and environment country scorecards serve as a valuable tool for guiding national action. They provide detailed data across the eight key areas linking environment, climate change, and health policies, promoting cross-sectoral engagement, and helping governments prioritize evidence-based interventions.

“Tackling environmental risks isn’t optional—it’s a prescription for better health, stronger economies, and a safer future. You can’t have healthy people on a sick planet,” said Dr Maria Neira, WHO Director, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health. “We urge all countries to take bold, coordinated action across sectors to reduce environmental threats. Investing in clean air, safe water, and climate-protective policies is not just good for the planet. It’s essential for the health and future of their people.”

From among countries, Norway and Canada received the highest scores overall. Among income groups, Argentina scored highest for upper-middle-income countries, Jordan for lower-middle-income, and Malawi for low-income countries. European countries led in regional averages, followed by the Americas, Western Pacific, and Eastern Mediterranean, and other regions.

In this third round of scorecards, the introduction of the summary score marks a significant step forward in helping countries prioritize action on health and environment. The summary score is designed to condense a wide range of environmental health indicators into a single, accessible measure. Comprising 25 key indicators across environment, climate change, and health, the score enables countries to track progress at national, regional, and global levels—highlighting trends in exposures, health impacts, policy implementation, as well as identifying critical data gaps.

The scorecards support countries in conducting situation assessments and setting evidence-based priorities for action. While large disparities exist between countries, shaped in part by differing levels of economic resources, every country has an opportunity to strengthen efforts to reduce environmental health risks.

“The updated scorecards, together with the summary score, now bring new visibility to the links between environment and health at country level,” said Dr Annette Pruess, Unit Head, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health, WHO. “This is a powerful tool for governments to identify challenges and shape targeted responses.”

About 25% of the global burden of disease is linked to environmental threats that are largely preventable. By addressing these environmental risk factors through stronger policies, cleaner technologies, and sustainable practices, we can significantly reduce preventable illnesses and deaths—improving health outcomes while protecting our planet.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI United Nations: 24 July 2025 Departmental update WHO and UNODC release landmark report on contaminated medicines, urging action to protect patients from preventable harm

Source: World Health Organisation

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) have jointly released a landmark report unveiling critical findings on the persistent and preventable threat of contaminated medicines which claimed the lives and compromised the health of countless patients, predominantly children, through the ingestion of medicines with dangerously high levels of toxic chemicals.

Over the past 90 years, at least 25 documented incidents of excipient contamination have resulted in more than 1300 deaths worldwide, many of them children. These incidents occur often due to systemic vulnerabilities in the global supply chain of pharmaceutical excipients, and they have disproportionately affected people in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where regulatory oversight and access to quality-assured medicines may be limited.

Titled “Contaminated medicines and integrity of the pharmaceutical excipients supply chain”, the report highlights a tragic and ongoing public health crisis: the contamination of medicines with industrial-grade toxic chemicals, notably diethylene glycol (DEG) and ethylene glycol (EG).

These substances are used as industrial solvents and antifreeze agents but can cause severe health issues and be fatal if ingested, even in small amounts, especially for children. They are often illegally substituted for pharmaceutical-grade excipients such as propylene glycol, glycerin, and sorbitol—ingredients used in the formulation of medicines, including cough and paracetamol syrups.

Since October 2022, WHO has issued 7 Medical Product Alerts concerning multiple batches of contaminated liquid oral medicines, many of which were marketed for paediatric use and exported widely to LMIC. WHO also issued 2 Alerts concerning falsified bulk chemicals masquerading as pharmaceutical quality excipients.

Following a particularly serious case in The Gambia, in which at least 66 children lost their lives, attention was once again focused on this issue. The case in The Gambia was quickly followed by similar incidents in Indonesia and Uzbekistan with a further 268 reported deaths and two further WHO Medical Product Alerts.

Most of the recent cases involve inexpensive oral liquid medicines that can be bought without a prescription. In most cases these medicines were marketed specifically for children and are registered medicines available in pharmacies, medicine stores or informal street markets.

Key findings

The report reveals how criminal networks exploit market volatility and regulatory gaps to introduce toxic substitutes into the supply chain. Key findings include:

The use of falsified labels and substitution of toxic chemicals for legitimate excipients such as propylene glycol.
The marketing of falsified excipients via online platforms, including e-commerce and social media.
A lack of regulatory oversight for manufacturers and distributors of high-risk excipients.
Deficiencies in post-market surveillance and enforcement mechanisms in both manufacturing and importing countries.
Intentional criminal conduct, including deliberate falsification of excipients and documentation, contributing directly to multiple contamination incidents.
Inadequate coordination and capacity among regulatory, customs and law enforcement authorities hindering timely investigations and prosecutions in some jurisdictions.

Call to action

The report calls for urgent global action to close regulatory gaps, strengthen oversight of excipient supply chains and protect all populations, especially the most vulnerable such as children, from preventable and deadly poisoning.

WHO has long played a central and proactive role in preventing, detecting, and responding to substandard and falsified medical products. This report reinforces the critical importance of strong and effective medicines regulatory systems to ensure access to safe, effective and quality-assured products.

Complementing this public health perspective, UNODC highlights the criminal dimension of the issue, documenting how organized criminal groups falsify documentation, substitute industrial-grade chemicals and exploit digital platforms to illegally infiltrate the global pharmaceutical supply chain with toxic and unregulated substances. Its contribution underscores the importance of criminal justice responses in parallel to regulatory action.

The report underscores the need for:

Improved regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms.
Enhanced compliance by manufacturers and distributors.
Greater transparency and traceability in the excipient supply chain.
Stronger collaboration between health authorities, law enforcement and the private sector.

Closer collaboration and timely information exchange between regulatory authorities, law enforcement and customs to support investigations and prosecutions.
Greater enforcement of existing laws, including the application of sanctions in cases of critical non-compliance with regulations related to contaminated excipients.
Improved investigation quality and prosecutorial capacity to address intentional acts of contamination and falsification of pharmaceutical excipients.
Strengthened post-market surveillance mechanisms to detect and respond to incidents with potential criminal dimensions.
Enhanced legal and operational frameworks to address the deliberate falsification of labels, certificates of analysis and excipient composition.

In many cases, contaminated medicines are the result of intentional criminal conduct. Addressing this threat requires coordinated efforts by all stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, customs officials, prosecutors and anti-corruption bodies. The report calls for greater cross-border cooperation, investigative capacity and the use of international legal instruments such as the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC).

WHO and UNODC urge Member States, national regulatory authorities, criminal justice actors, law enforcement agencies, pharmaceutical manufacturers and excipient distributors to take immediate decisive action to prevent further avoidable tragedies. Failure to act now risks condemning future generations of children to the same unacceptable and avoidable harms.

A collaborative effort grounded in global partnership

This report is the result of a collaborative effort involving national regulatory authorities (NRAs) and global health partners. Its development was made possible through the generous support of the Fleming Fund and the Gates Foundation.

WHO and UNODC extend their sincere appreciation to all stakeholders who contributed to this important work, particularly the NRAs of The Gambia, Indonesia and Pakistan, whose experiences and insights were instrumental in shaping the report’s findings.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hospital Authority announces senior appointments (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

The Hospital Authority (HA) spokesperson announced the following senior appointments today (July 24):

Dr Terry Lau Chu-leung will be appointed as Hospital Chief Executive (HCE) of Pok Oi Hospital (POH) and Tin Shui Wai Hospital (TSWH) with effect from August 1, succeeding Dr Chong Yee-hung upon his retirement.

Dr Lau, currently the Deputising HCE of POH and Chief of Service (Accident & Emergency) of POH, TSWH and Tuen Mun Hospital in the New Territories West Cluster (NTWC), is a specialist in emergency medicine by background. Since 2021, he has also served as the Deputy HCE of POH, demonstrating a proven track record in enhancing operational efficiency and clinical outcomes. Under his leadership, the NTWC Accident & Emergency Department has achieved a sustained low medical admission rate over the past seven years with a 25 per cent reduction in admissions while maintaining a zero access block. As the cluster co-ordinator for the Pilot Scheme for Direct Cross-boundary Ambulance Transfer in the Greater Bay Area, Dr Lau has effectively managed cases of transfer of patients through smooth processing and strong collaboration with multiple stakeholders.

Dr Simon Tang Yiu-hang will be appointed as Cluster Chief Executive of New Territories East Cluster and HCE of Prince of Wales Hospital with effect from August 25.

Dr Tang, a specialist in emergency medicine by background, is a seasoned senior executive with extensive experience in management positions at both the corporate and cluster levels. As the Director of Cluster Services at the HA Head Office since 2022, he has achieved significant outcomes across diverse areas, such as the establishment of the Global Healthcare Professional Recruitment Centre to attract non-locally trained doctors and nurses to the HA, the implementation of new procurement strategies which effectively reduced costs in purchasing medical equipment and drugs, and the acceleration of new drug enlistments into the HA Drug Formulary and safety net.

During the COVID-19 epidemic, Dr Tang played a key leading role in combating the disease by chairing daily morning meetings in the HA to ensure optimal allocation of treatment facilities for patients. He also spearheaded the establishment of the HA TeleHealth platform and drug delivery services to enhance healthcare service accessibility during critical periods.

The Chairman of the HA, Mr Henry Fan, and the Chief Executive of the HA, Dr Tony Ko, congratulate Dr Lau and Dr Tang on their new appointments and wish them every success in taking up the new roles. Mr Fan and Dr Ko also express their appreciation to Dr Chong for his dedicated service over the years and wish him a happy retirement.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Guangdong, Hong Kong, Macao Health, Animal and Plant Quarantine and Food Safety Control Meeting 2025 held online

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Guangdong, Hong Kong, Macao Health, Animal and Plant Quarantine and Food Safety Control Meeting 2025 was held online for two consecutive days and concluded today (July 24). Representatives from the three places shared experiences and exchanged views on various topics within the fields of health, animal and plant quarantine, and food safety control. The three places agreed to further strengthen exchanges and co-operation.

Speaking at the meeting, the Permanent Secretary for Environment and Ecology (Food), Ms Irene Young, said that with the acceleration of the integration process of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the movement of people, trade in goods, and economic interactions among the three places have become increasingly frequent. The governments of the three places have been working closely together in areas such as health, animal and plant quarantine, and food safety control, achieving significant results across various fields. The meeting enabled experts from the three places to exchange insights, taking the collaboration to new heights.

The Controller of the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health, Dr Edwin Tsui, also said at the meeting that the meeting would further strengthen collaboration on health quarantine between Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao. This will help build a robust cross-boundary public health protection system that safeguards the health and safety of people travelling to and from the three places, creating a “Healthy Bay Area”.

Representatives from the Mainland and the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) attending the meeting included the Deputy Director General of the Guangdong Sub-Administration of the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Feng Guoqing; the Acting Chairman of the Administration Committee on Municipal Affairs of the Municipal Affairs Bureau of the Macao SAR Government, Mr Mak Kim-meng; and the Director of the Centre for Disease Prevention and Control of the Health Bureau of the Macao SAR Government, Dr Leong Iek-hou.

Other representatives from Hong Kong were the Director of Food and Environmental Hygiene, Mr Donald Ng; the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, Mr Mickey Lai; and Acting Controller of the Centre for Food Safety, Dr Yonnie Lam and Dr Terence Cheung.

The Guangdong, Hong Kong, Macao Health, Animal and Plant Quarantine and Food Safety Control Meeting is held every two years.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 24, 2025

Israel studies Hamas reply to Gaza ceasefire plan as fighting continues

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Israel is reviewing a revised response from Hamas to a proposed ceasefire and hostage release deal, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said on Thursday, as Israeli air and ground strikes continued to pound the Gaza Strip.

Hamas confirmed it had handed over a new proposal, but did not disclose its contents. A previous version, submitted late on Tuesday, was rejected by mediators as insufficient and was not even passed to Israel, sources familiar with the situation said.

Both sides are facing huge pressure at home and abroad to reach a deal, with the humanitarian conditions inside Gaza deteriorating sharply amidst widespread, acute hunger in the Palestinian enclave that has shocked the world.

A senior Israeli official was quoted by local media as saying the new text was something Israel could work with. However, Israel’s Channel 12 said a rapid deal was not within reach, with gaps remaining between the two sides, including over where the Israeli military should withdraw to during any truce.

A Palestinian official close to the talks told Reuters the latest Hamas position was “flexible, positive and took into consideration the growing suffering in Gaza and the need to stop the starvation”.

Dozens of people have starved to death in Gaza the last few weeks as a wave of hunger crashes on the Palestinian enclave, according to local health authorities. The World Health Organization said on Wednesday 21 children under the age of five were among those who died of malnutrition so far this year.

Israel, which cut off all supplies to Gaza from the start of March and reopened it with new restrictions in May, says it is committed to allowing in aid but must control it to prevent it from being diverted by militants.

It says it has let in enough food for Gaza’s 2.2 million people over the course of the war, and blames the United Nations for being slow to deliver it; the U.N. says it is operating as effectively as possible under conditions imposed by Israel.

AIRSTRIKES

The war between Israel and Hamas has been raging for nearly two years since Hamas killed some 1,200 people and took 251 hostages from southern Israel in the deadliest single attack in Israel’s history.

Israel has since killed nearly 60,000 Palestinians in Gaza, decimated Hamas as a military force, reduced most of the territory to ruins and forced nearly the entire population to flee their homes multiple times.

Israeli forces on Thursday hit the central Gaza towns of Nuseirat, Deir Al-Balah and Bureij.

Health officials at Al-Awda Hospital said three people were killed in an airstrike on a house in Nuseirat, three more died from tank shelling in Deir Al-Balah, and separate airstrikes in Bureij killed a man and a woman and wounded several others.

Nasser hospital said three people were killed by Israeli gunfire while seeking aid in southern Gaza near the so-called Morag axis between Khan Younis and Rafah. The Israeli military said Palestinian militants had fired a projectile overnight from Khan Younis toward an aid distribution site near Morag. It was not immediately clear whether the incidents were linked.

Washington has been pushing the warring sides towards a deal for a 60-day ceasefire that would free some of the remaining 50 hostages held in Gaza in return for prisoners jailed in Israel, and allow in aid.

U.S. Middle East peace envoy Steve Witkoff travelled to Europe this week for meetings on the Gaza war and a range of other issues.

An Israeli official said Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer would meet Witkoff on Friday if the gaps between Israel and Hamas over the terms of a ceasefire had narrowed sufficiently.

Hamas is facing growing domestic pressure amid deepening humanitarian hardship in Gaza and continued Israeli advances.

Mediators say the group is seeking a withdrawal of Israeli troops to positions held before March 2, when Israel ended a previous ceasefire, and the delivery of aid under U.N. supervision.

That would exclude a newly formed U.S.-based group, the Gaza Humanitarian Fund, which began handing out food in May at sites located near Israeli troops who have shot dead hundreds of Palestinians trying to get aid.

(Reuters)

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to Listeriosis-caused death in Ireland

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

July 24, 2025

Scientists comment on a death caused by Listeriosis in Ireland.

Prof Brendan Wren, Professor of Microbial Pathogenesis, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said:

What is listeriosis, how common is it, how does it occur, how is it treated?

“Listeriosis invariably is caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes and is a rare infection that can cause meningitis and other complications. It is usually transmitted through the contamination of food products and is unusual in that it can survive at low temperatures including in refrigeration. Pregnant women and over 65s are particularly susceptible to infection.

What do we know so far about the situation so far and what is yet to be learned?

“The current situation appears to be an outbreak in the island of Ireland linked to potential contamination of a food source.”

What might have caused this particular outbreak and how will it be controlled?

“Most outbreaks of Listeriosis are often linked to persistent strains at food manufacturing sites. The strains are often difficult to detect and can withstand refrigeration and persist in factory sites for several months. Full inspection of the food processing chain and culturing of the bacterium will be required to identify the contaminating source.

How deadly is listeria and should we expect to see more deaths due to listeriosis?

“Rarely causes death, mainly in the immunocompromised. Most individuals will have mild flu-like symptoms, nausea and diarrhoea.

How worried should we be about this and future outbreaks?

“Outbreaks of Listeriosis are rare in Europe. The pathogen is very rarely transmitted between humans (except mothers to foetuses). So there should not be real alarm.

What can we do to prevent infection/future outbreaks?

“Close monitoring and testing at all points of the food supply chain”

Declared interests

No reply to our request for DOIs was received.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: Meeting of Mikhail Mishustin with Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Turchin

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the International Environmental Conference

From the transcript:

M. Mishustin: Dear Alexander Genrikhovich! Dear friends!

Mikhail Mishustin with Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Turchin

July 24, 2025

Meeting of Mikhail Mishustin with Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Turchin

July 24, 2025

Meeting of Mikhail Mishustin with Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Turchin

July 24, 2025

Meeting of Mikhail Mishustin with Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Turchin

July 24, 2025

Meeting of Mikhail Mishustin with Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Turchin

July 24, 2025

Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Turchin

July 24, 2025

Previous news Next news

Mikhail Mishustin with Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Turchin

I am very glad to meet you again here in the Altai Republic at the International Environmental Conference, which is dedicated to the most pressing issues of environmental protection in the entire Eurasian region. Let’s talk about natural phenomena, about ecology – there are many questions.

And of course, first of all, I would like to ask you to convey the kindest words of greetings to the President of Belarus, the respected Alexander Grigorievich Lukashenko, from the President of Russia Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin and from me personally.

Dear Alexander Genrikhovich, we are in constant contact by phone. We have spoken several times in the last couple of weeks alone.

At the government level, in my opinion, systematic work has been established to implement the decisions made by our leaders, which are primarily based on the main areas of implementation of the Treaty on the Union State for 2024–2026.

Drive

Conversation between Mikhail Mishustin and the head of the Altai Republic Andrey Turchak

Mikhail Mishustin visited the Republican Hospital in Gorno-Altaisk

Despite the unprecedented sanctions pressure from the collective West, our economic cooperation continues to strengthen. The share of machinery, equipment and high-tech products in our joint trade turnover is growing.

We already conduct over 90% of settlements in national currencies. All this helps protect our mutual trade and investments from negative external conditions.

To be continued…

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

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MIL OSI Russia News –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: Mikhail Mishustin created a government commission to eliminate the consequences of the An-24 plane crash in Tynda

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

A government commission was created by order of Mikhail Mishustin to eliminate the consequences of the An-24 plane crash in the Amur Region. It is headed by Transport Minister Andrei Nikitin.

The commission included the head of the Federal Air Transport Agency Dmitry Yadrov, the head of Rostransnadzor Viktor Gulin, the first deputy minister of finance Irina Okladnikova, the deputy head of the Ministry of Emergency Situations Viktor Yatsutsenko, the deputy head of the Ministry of Health Andrey Plutnitsky, the governor of the Amur Region Vasily Orlov, as well as representatives of the Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East, the Ministry of Labor, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and Rostrud.

In the near future, on the instructions of Mikhail Mishustin, Andrei Nikitin and Dmitry Yadrov will fly to the crash site.

On July 24 at 07:05 (Moscow time), while approaching to land at Tynda airport, the An-24 aircraft of Angara Airlines disappeared from radar. There were 42 passengers and 6 crew members on board. It was later established that the plane crashed several kilometers from Tynda airport.

All emergency services have been deployed to eliminate the aftermath of the crash. Relatives of the victims will be provided with all necessary assistance. Work will also be carried out to pay the appropriate compensation. In connection with the disaster, the Russian Emergencies Ministry hotline is operating in Tynda: 8 (4162) 53–99–99.

Rosaviatsia will work out the issue of transporting relatives of passengers of the crashed plane to Tynda on Russian airlines.

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

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MIL OSI Russia News –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI United Nations: 24 July 2025 News release Timor-Leste certified malaria-free by WHO

Source: World Health Organisation

The World Health Organization (WHO) has certified Timor-Leste as malaria-free, a remarkable achievement for a country that prioritized the disease and embarked on a concerted, nation-wide response shortly after gaining independence in 2002.

“WHO congratulates the people and government of Timor-Leste on this significant milestone,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “Timor-Leste’s success proves that malaria can be stopped in its tracks when strong political will, smart interventions, sustained domestic and external investment and dedicated health workers unite.”

With today’s announcement, a total of 47 countries and 1 territory have been certified as malaria-free by WHO. Timor-Leste is the third country to be certified in the WHO South-East Asia region, joining Maldives and Sri Lanka which were certified in 2015 and 2016 respectively.

Certification of malaria elimination is granted by WHO when a country has proven, beyond reasonable doubt, that the chain of indigenous transmission has been interrupted nationwide for at least the previous three consecutive years.

“We did it. Malaria has been one of our most relentless enemies – silent, persistent, and deadly. We lost too many lives to a disease that should be preventable. But our health workers never gave up, our communities held strong, and our partners, like WHO, walked beside us. From 223 000 cases to zero – this elimination honours every life lost and every life now saved. We must safeguard this victory with continued vigilance and community action to prevent malaria’s re-entry,” said Dr Élia António de Araújo dos Reis Amaral, SH, Minister of Health, Government of Timor-Leste.

A rapid shift from high burden country to malaria-free

Since gaining independence in 2002, Timor-Leste has made remarkable strides in the fight against malaria – reducing cases from a peak of more than 223 000 clinically diagnosed cases in 2006 to zero indigenous cases from 2021 onwards.

Timor-Leste’s success in eliminating malaria was driven by the Ministry of Health’s swift action in 2003 to establish the National Malaria Programme, a dedicated programme for planning, implementing, and monitoring malaria control efforts nationwide. With only two full-time officers initially, the programme was able to lay the foundation for progress early on through strong technical leadership, managerial capacity and attention to detail.

Within a few years, the country introduced rapid diagnostic tests and artemisinin-based combination therapy as part of the National Malaria Treatment Guidelines and began distributing free long-lasting insecticide treated nets to communities most at risk.

In 2009, with support from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Timor-Leste scaled up nationwide vector control efforts through the distribution of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spraying. Malaria diagnosis was also expanded using microscopy and rapid diagnostic tests at the point of care across all local health posts.

Facing the challenges of severe shortages of health workers and doctors, Timor-Leste made investments and developed its three-tier health system – comprising national hospitals, reference hospitals, community health centers (CHCs), and health posts – to ensure most residents can access care within an hour’s walk. Additionally, citizens are provided with free health services at the point of care, as part of the government’s policy on free universal health care. Monthly mobile clinics and community outreach programmes further enhance health services in rural areas.

Timor-Leste’s success in combating malaria highlights the importance of country leadership and strong collaboration between the Ministry of Health, WHO, local communities, non-governmental organizations, donors, and multiple government sectors. A real-time integrated case-based surveillance system ensures rapid data collection and response, while trained health workers ensure timely detection and screening of malaria cases, including at borders. These integrated efforts have paved the way for the country to be officially certified malaria-free.

“Timor-Leste’s malaria-free certification is a defining national triumph – driven by bold leadership, tireless efforts of health workers, and the resolve of its people. As a young nation, Timor-Leste stayed focused – testing, treating, and investigating swiftly. Ending transmission and maintaining zero deaths takes more than science; it takes grit. This victory protects generations, present and future, and shows what a determined country can achieve,” said Dr Arvind Mathur, WHO Representative to Timor-Leste.

Note to the editor

WHO malaria-free certification
The final decision on awarding a malaria-free certification is made by the WHO Director-General, based on a recommendation by the Technical Advisory Group on Malaria Elimination and Certification and validation from the Malaria Policy Advisory Group. More on WHO’s malaria-free certification process.

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Milestone for city’s Dementia Hub

Source: City of Coventry

Coventry’s pioneering Dementia Hub celebrated its second anniversary this week.

The occasion was marked by a small celebration event which was attended by residents and partners from across the city. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from some of the people behind the Hub’s success and to reflect on its future.

Since opening in July 2023, the Coventry Dementia Partnership Hub has become a pillar of adult social care services in the city. Every year, the hub and its staff help around 4,000 people access essential support and guidance.

Beyond that support, the Coventry Dementia Partnership Hub also offers a safe, caring space for those living with Dementia where they can meet other people and take part in fun activities such as singing and dancing.

The hub involves a number of partners working together, including Admiral Nurses, Age UK, the Alzheimer’s Society, Carers’ Trust, Lions Club of Coventry Godiva, the Council, the Coventry Police Partnership Team, Dementia Champions, and more.

Speaking at the event Cllr Linda Bigham, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, reflected on the importance of the hub to the city.

She said: “Dementia is a lonely, isolating illness which impacts thousands of people across Coventry. That’s why we launched the hub, we wanted a place for people to come together, make friends and get the support they need.

“It’s so heart-warming to visit the building and hear first-hand the impact it’s been having on residents and their carers.

“None of this would be possible without our partners and staff. Without them this would just be a building but because of their commitment it’s a sanctuary for so many people.”

Stuart Jennings, Honorary Vice President of the Alzheimer’s Society, also attended the event.

He said:” This is a place where people find friendship, encouragement, advice and even manage to raise a smile.

“The hub is an example, not only across Coventry but nationally. It’s a model that, in my role, I hold up as a shining example for other cities to follow.”

[embedded content]

Find out more about the Hub by visiting the Council’s Website.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Craig and Kelly have won a wedding!

Source: City of Coventry

Craig Critchley and Kelly Baylis are getting ready to walk down the aisle in style on Valentine’s Day, after being chosen as winners of the Win a Wedding competition run by the City Council and Go CV.

There were dozens of entries, and judges had a tough time reading through all the incredible stories before finally selecting Craig and Kelly as winners.

In fact – both of them had sent in applications in the hope of being selected for the great prize, which is worth over £5,000.

It includes a marriage ceremony hosted in the Black Prince Room at Cheylesmore Manor House (Coventry Register Office), a wedding reception venue at Drapers’ Hall including buffet, dining set-up and service staff, plus overnight accommodation in a Junior Suite at the Telegraph Hotel with breakfast.

In submitting her entry, Kelly told how the couple had first met as 13-year-olds 37 years ago.

She said: “We’re both 50 this year and never got the chance to get married. Craig actually proposed to me on February 14th many years ago, but then life got turned upside down.

“We started saving for our wedding and we were trying to start a family, but things didn’t quite go as we planned.

“At 25 weeks our little girl was born weighing only 1lb 6oz and we named her Harriet. She was tiny and so sick. She fought so hard and had numerous surgeries and other procedures. It was the hardest time of our lives but we never gave up hope.

“Craig was amazing. He was my rock. Finally, Harriet began to improve and after months we got to bring her home. We want to marry so much and to have our beautiful 12-year-old daughter there as our flower girl on our engagement anniversary would be so special.”

In Craig’s entry, he said: ““Our journey has been so tough, filled with heartache, sadness and pure elation. We were told Harriet would not make it, but she defied all odds and is our little miracle. “So to complete our dream and to get married when we are 50 and on the anniversary of my proposal would be something very special indeed.”

On hearing they had won the prize, they said: “We couldn’t believe it, the best surprise you could ever imagine. It means the world to us that our love story will come full circle, a wedding on Valentine’s Day, the same day we got engaged! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

The lucky winners will also have flower bouquets provided by Isabel’s Flower Studio, photographs by UR Rosa Photography, precious moments to share on social media by Electric Joy Moments Content Creator and Brody Swain as Wedding Toastmaster at the ceremony and reception.

People had to enter on the Go CV website, saying in no more than 300 words why they deserved to win. They also had to be a Coventry resident and hold a fully validated Go CV card.

Councillor Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member, Public Health, Sport and Wellbeing, said: “It really is a fantastic prize, and I am delighted for Kelly and Craig to have their dream come true after everything they have been through.

“Thank you to everyone who entered – there were some very moving and inspiring stories – and congratulations to our winning couple. I know they will have a fantastic day at some truly wonderful venues, and with the help of some very talented local businesses.”

To learn more about Go CV and how you could get some great discounts and enter competitions in the future, visit go-cv.co.uk

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Holidaymakers heading to Europe urged to help protect British farmers by not bringing back meat and dairy products

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Holidaymakers heading to Europe urged to help protect British farmers by not bringing back meat and dairy products

Call for holidaymakers to follow rules introduced to help protect farmers from Foot and Mouth

UK holidaymakers heading to Europe this summer are being urged to help protect British farmers from Foot and Mouth disease by not bringing back meat and dairy products

Europe has seen a wave of cases impacting Hungary, Austria and Germany, and the UK Chief Vet is today (July 24th) urging the British public to comply with the rules, so we avoid a devastating outbreak like the one that was experienced in 2001.

Foot and Mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease that can, in some cases, kill cattle, sheep, pigs and other cloven-hoofed animals. It can be carried in animal products – including meat, dairy products and some processed food. The virus can remain viable for months and can rapidly spread through contaminated objects and the movement of people.

It is illegal for travellers entering GB to bring with them untreated meat or dairy products including lamb, pork, mutton, venison and goat meat, and all other products made from these meats or containing them – such as sandwiches and sausages – from the EU, regardless of whether they are packed, packaged or have been bought at duty free.

This includes products such as cheese, chorizo, salami, serrano ham, pâté, yoghurt, butter, milk, and sandwiches containing any of the banned meats.

These strict rules were introduced due to the toll Foot and Mouth can have on the farming industry . An outbreak could result in the culling of large numbers of the country’s livestock and cost the UK economy billions of pounds in production shortfalls, lost trade and disease control. The outbreak in GB in 2001 is estimated to have cost £15 billion (in current prices) in disease control costs alone.

Biosecurity Minister, Baroness Hayman, said:

Maintaining the integrity of our biosecurity against Foot and Mouth Disease is essential, and this updated control strategy reflects our strengthened approach to managing that risk. It reflects our clear determination to safeguard our borders.

We are asking the public to take this seriously. Do not bring prohibited animal or plant products into the country—doing so puts farmers livelihoods at risk.

UK Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said:

Foot and Mouth disease has been recently circulating on the continent. The disease presents a significant risk to Britain’s food security and economy.

This highly contagious disease causes considerable suffering to livestock and has a devastating economic and personal impact on farmers, who lose their prized animals. I know it is disappointing not to be able to bring back produce from your holidays, but please avoid temptation – you will be doing your bit to help protect our hard-working farmers.

To further strengthen the country’s response to foot and mouth disease, the Government has today updated the Foot and Mouth Control Strategy for GB which will support the UK’s ability to prevent, detect, and respond to an outbreak, protecting the livestock industry and rural economy. This is the first update in over a decade. This comes ahead of an exercise later this year to test Government preparedness. The updated framework provides information to help farmers protect their business and outlines how government will respond effectively to outbreaks.

Last month, the Government announced £1bn funding for a new investment programme to build a new National Biosecurity Centre – a cutting-edge scientific campus in Surrey that will serve as the UKs foremost animal biosecurity facility. This will better protect the public and farmers from animal disease by enhancing the country’s detection, surveillance and control capabilities for high-risk animal diseases, such as avian influenza, foot and mouth disease, and African swine fever, and enhance our ability to manage concurrent disease outbreaks.

Foot and mouth disease is a notifiable disease and must be reported. If you suspect foot and mouth disease in your animals, you must report it immediately by calling:  

03000 200 301 in England   
0300 303 8268 in Wales   
your local  Field Services Office in Scotland

ENDS

Notes to editors – current restrictions

Travellers are currently banned from bringing all dairy products and some meats from the European Union (EU) into GB. These restrictions aim to prevent the introduction of FMD and other harmful animal diseases such as ASF, PPR and LSD.
It is illegal for travellers entering GB (not Northern Ireland) to bring with them lamb, pork, mutton, venison and goat meat, and all other products made from these meats or containing them – such as sandwiches and sausages – from the EU, regardless of whether they are packed, packaged or have been bought at duty free.
This includes products such as cheese, chorizo, salami, serrano ham, pâté, yoghurt, butter, milk, and sandwiches containing any of the banned meats.
The current restrictions were introduced in April in response to rising cases of FMD in Europe, and to protect the health of British livestock, the security of farmers, and the UK’s food security. Restrictions on travellers bringing back certain meat and dairy products were already in place to curb the spread of ASF and PPR in Europe.
Travellers are also banned from bringing any meat, meat products, milk or milk-based products into GB from countries outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Faroe Islands and Greenland.
Border Force will check for prohibited goods as part of customs checks. Travellers found with prohibited items must surrender them at the border or have them seized and destroyed. In serious cases, those found with such may be fined up to £5,000 in England or prosecuted across GB.
The government continues to work closely with ports, airports and travel operators to raise awareness of the ban, including via prominent signage.
The measures will stay in place until the personal import of affected products no longer poses a significant biosecurity risk to GB.
The restrictions do not apply to travellers arriving into GB from Northern Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man.
The measures apply only to personal imports, e.g. goods that travellers bring back with them from holiday. Commercial food imports must undergo other biosecurity requirements, including heat treatments and accompanying export health certificates signed by official veterinarians to mitigate the risk of diseases, such as FMD, ASF, PPR and LSD.
More information for travellers arriving from the EU can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/bringing-food-into-great-britain/meat-dairy-fish-animal-products

Published 24 July 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI: MIG Capital leads CHF 7.75 million seed financing for ASTRA Therapeutics

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MIG Capital, through its MIG Fonds, is investing 3 million Swiss Francs (CHF) in the Swiss start-up which designs precision drugs against eukaryotic pathogens.
Digitalis Ventures co-leads the round with additional investment from Borealis Ventures, Kickfund and Venture Kick.
Eukaryotic pathogens cause illness and death in animals, humans, and crops.

MUNICH, Germany, and VILLIGEN, Switzerland, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MIG Capital AG, one of Germany’s leading venture capital firms, announced today that it is heading a seed financing of CHF 7.75 million for ASTRA Therapeutics with U.S. venture capital firm Digitalis Ventures as co-lead and Borealis Ventures, Kickfund and Venture Kick also participating in the round. MIG Fonds 17 and 18 have allocated CHF 3 million for the Swiss start-up, based at the Park InnovAARE innovation campus in Villigen, Switzerland.

Founded in 2022, ASTRA Therapeutics AG designs and develops novel parasitic agents (parasiticides) that control parasites by inhibiting cell division in parasites while sparing hosts. The company generates species-specific drug leads targeting tubulin, known as Parabulins^®, through its proprietary drug development platform ParaX^®.

Parabulins^® are novel drugs (New Molecular Entities, NME) targeting important indications in the veterinary market. ASTRA’s pipeline includes over 15 patentable chemical classes featuring nanomolar-potent candidates for common parasites such as coccidia in farm animals and heartworm in dogs and cats. Initial in vivo proof of concept for multiple NMEs has been demonstrated.

Natacha Gaillard, PhD, Founder and Co-CEO of ASTRA Therapeutics, said: “The animal health market is facing an ever-increasing need for novel anti-parasite drugs to combat the growing threat of drug resistance, ensure the health and welfare of our pets, and maintain healthy and efficient food production.”

Ashwani Sharma, PhD, also Founder and Co-CEO of ASTRA Therapeutics, added: “Our platform is designed to exploit structural differences between essential proteins in parasites and the host animals, enabling creation of new drugs that should be both effective and safe.”

The global parasiticide market is worth over 10 billion US dollars and is growing at a CAGR of 5.6%¹. At the same time, established products are facing patent expiry, while increasing resistance is causing a dramatic need for new drugs – in some regions, up to 98% of heartworm cases are already resistant to standard therapies.

ASTRA is strategically positioned to capture this opportunity: the company develops novel, patentable drugs that are highly potent and resistance-breaking. Target revenues are over 800 million US dollars per year for coccidiosis and 2.4 billion US-dollars per year for worm control – in the veterinary sector alone.

“We see tremendous commercial potential for new drugs that control worms including heartworm in dogs and cats, and coccidiosis in poultry and swine production,” said Andreas Kastenbauer, Partner at MIG Capital. “With renowned structural biologists Dr. Natacha Gaillard and Dr. Ashwani Sharma in the lead and strong support from a team of market and business developers experienced in drug discovery, licensing and biotech financing, this is the right company to achieve success.”

The new investment expands MIG Capital’s approach to engaging in the rapidly growing veterinary medicine market. In 2024, the VC investor already acquired a stake in HawkCell, a French start-up developing MRI and CT imaging for use in animals. ASTRA Therapeutics is MIG Capital’s first investment in Switzerland and its second new investment this year.

_______________
1 Stonehaven Cozmix Group, Animal Health Industry: Reflections on the Past Decade and Visions for the Future Report 2025. (Published at AHNTI Conference London 2025) [see page 23]

About Astra Therapeutics

ASTRA Therapeutics is a Swiss biotechnology company based in Villigen (CH) that designs novel precision drugs against eukaryotic pathogens based on its proprietary ParaX^® platform. The company’s goal is to develop drugs that selectively target parasites while sparing hosts. ASTRA Therapeutics addresses medical and veterinary challenges characterized by increasing drug resistance, expiring patents, and a growing global parasiticide market.

For more information, please visit www.astratherapeutics.com.

About MIG Capital

MIG Capital is one of the leading German VC investors. Through its MIG funds, MIG invests in young deep tech and life sciences companies in German-speaking Europe and beyond. To date, the company has invested over €770 million in approx. 60 start-ups. MIG portfolio companies develop innovations in areas including biopharmaceuticals, energy and environmental technologies, advanced computing, digitalization / IoT, medical technology, and digital health. The MIG investment portfolio currently consists of more than 30 companies.

MIG’s investment team is made up of a dedicated group of engineers, scientists, physicians and entrepreneurs who use analytical and creative processes to assess the risks and opportunities of business models and technologies. Their reputation, experience and network provide excellent access to companies, institutions and decision-makers to support the growth of their portfolio companies.

In recent years, MIG Capital has realized more than ten successful portfolio company sales, including Siltectra (to Infineon) and Hemovent (to MicroPort). It has placed several companies on the stock exchange including BRAIN, NFON, BioNTech, and Immatics.

For further information, please visit: www.mig.ag, www.mig-fonds.de. LinkedIn: MIG Capital

Contact

MIG Capital
Andreas Kastenbauer, Partner
+49-89-94382680
ak@mig.ag

Media Inquiries

MC Services
Dr. Cora Kaiser, Catherine Featherston, Dr. Johanna Kobler
+49-89-210228-0
migag@mc-services.eu

The MIL Network –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI Africa: World Health Organization (WHO) hands over supplies to Al Sabbah Children Hospital, South Sudan’s only children hospital

Source: APO

.

Al Sabbah children hospital is the only tertiary referral children’s hospital in South Sudan with a stabilization center receiving children with severe acute malnutrition from all parts of the country. This translates into the high demand for medical supplies and equipment for the hospital to be able to tend to the one thousand children coming to the center each month.

Despite the stretch, Al Sabbah children hospital runs with slightly over 100 health workers and still manages to provide clinical training to students from both public and private institutions. The nutrition team of the World Health Organization (WHO) in South Sudan has been a longstanding partner and advocate for the hospital to benefit from technical and logistical support in critical areas.

Dr Joseph Elias, the acting Executive Director of Al Sabbah is appreciative of WHO’s support: “We know that the patients exceed the hospital’s capacity which affects the access to timely and quality healthcare. Having partners such as WHO supporting Al Sabbah children hospital is a godsend for both the health workers and the families.” said Dr Elias.

On 21 July, WHO handed over pediatric beds, mattresses, oxygen concentrators, spare parts, severe acute malnutrition (SAM) kits and pulse oximeters to the management of Al Sabbah children hospital. The medical supplies and equipment were procured with funding from the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO). The handover was an emotional moment for the personnel who often have more patients than beds and less supplies than they need to treat them.

Betty Achan has been a nutritionist at Al Sabbah children hospital stabilization center for over a decade: “Look at this beautiful ward. These beds were really needed. Receiving them from WHO was a relief. We have so many children, and it is heartbreaking to tell a family that you have nowhere to put their sick child. Please go be our ambassadors and advocate more. We need more over everything because the demand is so high.” Said Betty.

South Sudan faces many challenges, particularly in the health sector, and children are among the most vulnerable. Based on the hospital’s monthly pediatric death audits, 50% of deaths occurring at Al Sabbah are recorded at the stabilization center. Over the first quarter of 2025, mortality rates at the center range between 14% and 19%. The main causes of the alarming rates being Malaria, Pneumonia, Sepsis and Acute Watery Diarrhea (AWD) which is particularly dangerous for children due to their smaller and developing bodies making them more susceptible to infections.

The supplies from WHO are intended to strengthen the stabilization center and hospital’s capacity to respond to the needs of children who walk through Al Sabbah’s doors.

Dr Humphrey Karamagi, WHO Representative in South Sudan assured the hospital of continued support: “These supplies are for the children. They are for the mothers who sit anxiously at their bedside. They are for the doctors and nurses who work tirelessly. And they are for a future where every child in South Sudan has the opportunity not just to survive, but to thrive.”

Supporting Al Sabbah children hospital is part of WHO’s broader commitment to improving maternal, newborn, and child health in South Sudan as well as the country’s health priorities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – South Sudan.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Defence Medical Services senior appointments announced

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

New Defence Medical Services senior appointments announced

His Majesty the King has approved three new senior appointments in the Defence Medical Services.

Brigadier Phil Carter KHP OStJ. MOD Crown Copyright

His Majesty the King has approved the following three senior appointments in the Defence Medical Services (DMS):

Brigadier Phil Carter KHP OStJ as the next Surgeon General (SG), in the rank of Major General, from August 2025
Brigadier Antony Finn as the next Director Medical Personnel and Training in the rank of Major General, from November 2025
Air Commodore Darren Ellison KHP as the next Director Defence Healthcare in the rank of Air Vice-Marshal, from June 2026

All three have had long and distinguished careers delivering health care to the Armed Forces as part of the Defence Medical Services.

Brigadier Carter has undertaken a variety of deployments throughout his career, including to Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Iraq, Afghanistan and Sierra Leon. In 2008, he was appointed as the first Commanding Officer of the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine Clinical Unit. He later became Commander Medical HQ in the British Army’s 1(UK) Division and Commander Defence Primary Healthcare, before being appointed Head of Army Health in 2024.

As Surgeon General, Brigadier Phil Carter will be responsible for:

providing specialist health and medical support advice to the Military Strategic Headquarters on behalf of the Director General of the Defence Medical Services.
Force Design within the Defence Medical Services, ensuring the readiness of the medical capability supporting the Armed Forces
directing medical research, medical innovation, and continuous quality improvement in Defence
coordinating our international technical engagement with medical partners across NATO and the UK’s broader alliances

Brigadier Phil Carter said:

At a time of reform across Defence, to be entrusted with the making sure that our armed forces deployed on operations have the medical support they need is a significant responsibility. I am looking forward to the challenge and enormously grateful that I will be working with such a dedicated and innovative specialist team.

Brigadier Antony Finn. MOD Crown Copyright

Brigadier Antony Finn qualified as a General Practitioner in 2003. Following deployments to Afghanistan, Kenya and Iraq, in July 2010 he assumed command of 1 Medical Regiment and deployed to Afghanistan as Commanding Officer of the Close Support Medical Regiment. In 2012 he was promoted to Colonel as Assistant Director of Medical Operational Capability, before promoting to Brigadier in March 2019 as Commander 2nd Medical Brigade. From 2021-24 he was Head of Army Healthcare, and since August 2024 has been Commander of the Joint Hospital Group.

As part of his role as Director Medical Personnel and Training, Brigadier Antony Finn will be responsible for:

leading strategic medical workforce planning for DMS, including training and placement, to support to support Strategic Command (soon to be Cyber & Specialist Operations Command) and wider Defence’s people plan people plan and operational needs
overseeing the development and delivery of high-quality individual training, to all entitled personnel involved in medical support to Defence
delivering an optimally prepared and suitably qualified and experienced personnel (SQEP) medical workforce through the provision of high-quality placements within both the NHS and other providers

Brigadier Finn, said:

I am deeply honoured to be selected to be the next Director of Medical Personnel and Training. The Strategic Defence Review offers unprecedented opportunities for the Defence Medical Services and our partners. I look forward to exploiting these for the benefit of our patients, the medical workforce, Defence and beyond.

Air Commodore Darren Ellison KHP. MOD Crown Copyright

Air Commodore Ellison joined the RAF in 1999 as a medical cadet and has undertaken a variety of roles including deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan. As a Wing Commander he was appointed as Officer Commanding Tactical Medical Wing in 2018, and then as Group Captain he served as Regional Clinical Director, Defence Primary Healthcare (DPHC) Northern Ireland Wales and West. In 2022 he was appointed Commanding Officer of the RAF Centre of Aviation Medicine, and then promoted to Air Commodore in Summer 2023 when he became Head Healthcare and Strategic Plans in HQ Defence Medical Services before being appointed Head of the Royal Air Force Medical Services and Head Health (RAF) in November 2024.

As part of his role as Director Defence Healthcare, Air Commodore Ellison will be responsible for:

directing, overseeing and commissioning both primary and secondary military healthcare services in support of Defence outputs
directing, managing and delivering primary healthcare and dentistry service delivery in the UK and all overseas bases
maximising the medical employability and deployability of Armed Forces personnel across Defence

Air Commodore Darren Ellison said:

It is an honour and a privilege to be appointed as the next Director Healthcare for the Defence Medical Services. I look forward to working with both the whole DMS team, and colleagues across the Military Commands, to shape and deliver a service that ensures our patients continue to receive the highest standard of safe, effective healthcare they rightly deserve, and we provide the critically enabling healthcare outputs that meet the current and future needs of Defence.

Congratulating all three on their appointments, General Sir Jim Hockenhull, Commander Strategic Command (soon to be Cyber & Specialist Operations Command) said:

I am delighted to see these three promotions within the Defence Medical Services. Brigadier Philip Carter’s appointment as the next Surgeon General, on appointment to Major General, Brigadier Antony Finn’s appointment as the next Director Medical Personnel and Training, on appointment to Major General and Air Commodore Darren Ellison’s appointment as the next Director Defence Healthcare, on appointment to Air Vice-Marshal. These selections will enable all to provide considerable support within DMS’s transformation journey and the implementation of the Strategic Defence Review (SDR), I look forward to working with them and congratulate them on their promotion.

Director General of the Defence Medical Services, Air Marshal Clare Walton added:

I am delighted to see the announcement of these three crucial appointments. Brigadier Phil Carter, Brigadier Tony Finn and Air Commodore Darren Ellison all have extensive experience gained from multiple roles in the Defence Medical Services and are exceptionally well-placed to take on these critical positions. At a time of global volatility, their leadership will be pivotal in driving the Strategic Defence Review (SDR) forward to implementation, shaping the medical capabilities of the future, and embedding the One Medical Mindset, ensuring that Armed Forces personnel remain fit to fight and are fully supported in their recovery to fitness.

Published 24 July 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 24, 2025

MIL-Evening Report: Israel waging ‘horror show’ starvation campaign in Gaza, says UN chief

This is Democracy Now!. I’m Amy Goodman.

More than 100 humanitarian groups are demanding action to end Israel’s siege of Gaza, warning mass starvation is spreading across the Palestinian territory.

The NGOs, including Amnesty International, Oxfam, Doctors Without Borders, warn, “illnesses like acute watery diarrhea are spreading, markets are empty, waste is piling up, and adults are collapsing on the streets from hunger and dehydration.”

Their warning came as the Palestinian Ministry of Health said the number of starvation-related deaths has climbed to at least 111 people.

This is Ghada al-Fayoumi, a displaced Palestinian mother of seven in Gaza City.

GHADA AL-FAYOUMI: “[translated] My children wake up sick every day. What do I do? I get saline solution for them. What can I do?

“There’s no food, no bread, no drinks, no rice, no sugar, no cooking oil, no bulgur, nothing. There is no kind of any food available to us at all.”

AMY GOODMAN: Thousands of antiwar protesters marched on Tuesday in Tel Aviv outside Israel’s military headquarters, demanding an end to Israel’s assault and a lifting of the Gaza siege. This is Israeli peace activist Alon-Lee Green with the group Standing Together.

ALON-LEE GREEN: “We are marching now in Tel Aviv, holding bags of flour and the pictures of these children that have been starved to death by our government and our army.

“We demand to stop the starvation in Gaza. We demand to stop the annihilation of Gaza. We demand to stop the daily killing of children and innocent people in Gaza.

“This cannot go on. We are Israelis, and this does not serve us. This only serves the Messianic people that lead us.”

AMY GOODMAN: This comes as the World Health Organisation has released a video showing the Israeli military attacking WHO facilities in central Gaza’s Deir al-Balah. A WHO spokesperson condemned the attack, called for the immediate release of a staff member abducted by Israeli forces.

TARIK JAŠAREVIĆ: “Male staff and family members were handcuffed, stripped, interrogated on the spot and screened at gunpoint.

“Two WHO staff and two family members were detained.”

AMY GOODMAN: Meanwhile, health officials in Gaza say Israeli attacks over the past day killed more than 70 people, including five more people seeking food at militarised aid sites. Amid growing outrage worldwide, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Tuesday the situation in Gaza right now is a “horror show”.

UN SECRETARY-GENERAL ANTÓNIO GUTERRES: “We need look no further than the horror show in Gaza, with a level of death and destruction without parallel in recent times.

“Malnourishment is soaring. Starvation is knocking on every door.”

AMY GOODMAN: For more, we’re joined by Michael Fakhri, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food. He is a professor of law at University of Oregon, where he leads the Food Resiliency Project.

[embedded content]
Israel waging ‘fastest starvation campaign’ in modern history Video: Democracy Now!

Dr Michael Fakhri, welcome back to Democracy Now! If you can respond to what’s happening right now, the images of dying infants starving to death, the numbers now at over 100, people dropping in the streets, reporters saying they can’t go on?

Agence France-Presse’s union talked about they have had reporters killed in conflict, they have had reporters disappeared, injured, but they have not had this situation before with their reporters starving to death.

DR MICHAEL FAKHRI: Amy, the word “horror” — I mean, we’re running out of words of what to say. And the reason it’s horrific is it was preventable. We saw this coming. We’ve seen this coming for 20 months.

Israel announced its starvation campaign back in October 2023. And then again, Prime Minister Netanyahu announced on March 1 that nothing was to enter Gaza. And that’s what happened for 78 days. No food, no water, no fuel, no medicine entered Gaza.

And then they built these militarised aid sites that are used to humiliate, weaken and kill the Palestinians. So, what makes this horrific is it has been preventable, it was predictable. And again, this is the fastest famine we’ve seen, the fastest starvation campaign we’ve seen in modern history.

AMY GOODMAN: So, can you talk about what needs to be done at this point and the responsibility of the occupying power? Israel is occupying Gaza right now. What it means to have to protect the population it occupies?

DR FAKHRI: The International Court of Justice outlined Israel’s duties in its decisions over the last year. So, what Israel has an obligation to do is, first, end its illegal occupation immediately. This came from the court itself.

Second, it must allow humanitarian relief to enter with no restrictions. And this hasn’t been happening. So, usually, we would turn to the Security Council to authorise peacekeepers or something similar to assist.

But predictably, again, the United States keeps vetoing anything to do with a ceasefire. When the Security Council is in a deadlock because of a veto, the General Assembly, the UN General Assembly, has the authority to call for peacekeepers to accompany humanitarian convoys to enter into Gaza and to end Israel’s starvation campaign against the Palestinian people.

AMY GOODMAN: People actually protested outside the house of UN Secretary-General António Guterres yesterday. People protested all over the world yesterday against the Palestinians being starved and bombed to death. Those in front of the UN Secretary-General’s house said they don’t dispute that he has raised this issue almost every day, but they say he can do more.

Finally, Michael Fakhri, what does the UN need to do — the US, Israel, the world?

DR FAKHRI: So, as I mentioned, first and foremost, they can authorise peacekeepers to enter to stop the starvation. But, second, they need to create consequences.

The world has a duty to prevent this starvation. The world has a duty to prevent and end this genocide. And as a result, then, what the world can do is impose sanctions.

And again, this is supported by the International Court of Justice. The world needs to impose wide-scale sanctions against the state of Israel to force it to end the starvation and genocide of civilians, of Palestinian civilians in Gaza today.

AMY GOODMAN: Well, I want to thank you so much for being with us, Michael Fakhri, UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food, speaking to us from Eugene, Oregon.

Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 24, 2025

MIL-Evening Report: The Murray–Darling Basin Plan Evaluation is out. The next step is to fix the land, not just the flows

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Stewardson, CEO One Basin CRC, The University of Melbourne

Yarramalong Weir is one of many barriers to the passage of fish in the Murray-Darling Basin. Geoff Reid, One Basin CRC

A report card into the A$13 billion Murray–Darling Basin Plan has found much work is needed to ensure the ecology of Australia’s largest river system is properly restored.

The assessment, by the Murray–Darling Basin Authority, is the most comprehensive to date.

The authority says the river system is doing better now than it would have without the plan, which aims to ensure sustainable water use for the environment, communities and industries. But it found there is more to be done.

We are water, economics and environmental researchers with many years of experience working in the Murray-Darling Basin. We agree more work is needed, but with a more local focus, to restore the basin to health.

This requires more than just more water for the environment. Coordinated local efforts to restore rivers and the surrounding land are desperately needed. There’s so much more to the river system than just the water it contains.

Preparing for the 2026 Basin Plan Review (Murray–Darling Basin Authority)

What’s the plan?

The Murray-Darling Basin is Australia’s food bowl. But for too long, the health of environment was in decline – rivers were sick and wildlife was suffering. The river stopped flowing naturally to the sea because too much water was being taken from it.

Poor land management has also degraded the river system over time. Floodplain vegetation has been damaged, the river channel has been re-engineered, and pest plants and animals have been introduced.

The Murray-Darling Basin Plan was established in 2012. It aimed to recover water for the environment and safeguard the long-term health of the river system, while continuing to support productive agriculture and communities. It demanded more water for the environment and then described how this water would be delivered, in the form of targeted “environmental flows”.

Since 2012, the allocation of water to various uses has gradually changed. So far, 2,069 billion litres (gigalitres) of surface water has been recovered for the environment. Combined with other earlier water recovery, a total of about 28% of water previously diverted for agriculture, towns and industry is now being used by the environment instead.

A mixed report card

The evaluation released today is the first step towards a complete review of the plan next year. The 2026 review will make recommendations to Environment and Water Minister Murray Watt. It will then be up to him to decide whether any changes are needed.

It is a mixed report card. Ecological decline has been successfully halted at many sites. But sustained restoration of ecosystems across the basin is yet to be achieved, and native fish populations are in poor condition across 19 of the basin’s 23 catchments.

Climate change is putting increasing pressure on water resources. More intense and frequent extreme climate events and an average 20–30% less streamflow (up to 50% in some rivers) are expected by mid-century.

The evaluation also called for better policy and program design. Specifically, flexible programs have proven more effective than prescriptive, highly regulated programs.

Finally, the report also highlights that the cost of water reform is increasing.

Direct buybacks of water licences, mostly from irrigators, account for around two-thirds of the water recovered for the environment under the basin plan. Buybacks are the simplest and most cost-effective way to recover water but are controversial because of concerns about social and economic impacts.

Much of the remaining water has been recovered through investment in more efficient water supply infrastructure, with water savings reserved for environmental use.

The authority suggests different approaches will be needed for additional water recovery.

Having plenty of native vegetation on river banks is important for river health.
Geoff Reid, One Basin CRC

Healthy rivers need more than water

For the past two decades, measures to restore the Murray-Darling Basin have focused largely on water recovery. But research suggests attention now needs to be paid to other, more local actions.

In March, one author of this article – Samantha Capon – identified nine priority actions to restore Australia’s inland river and groundwater ecosystems at local levels. They included:

revegetating land alongside waterways
retiring some farmland
modifying barriers to fish movements
installing modern fish screens on irrigation pumps.

The study estimated such actions would cost around A$2.9 billion a year, if completed over the next 30 years.

Works to restore vegetation or other environmental conditions at these critical habitats will only occur with landholders, as well as Traditional Owners.

That’s because most of the basin’s wetlands and floodplain areas are on private property, including in irrigation districts.

Irrigator involvement is needed to place fish screens on private irrigation pumps or retire farmland. There is a growing interest and some early experience in using private irrigation channels to deliver environmental water. This also requires local partnerships.

The basin plan should include targets for environmental outcomes, not just water recovery. This will allow the benefits from local restoration measures and environmental flows to be included when tracking the plan.

Such ecosystem accounting tools already exist. Research is urgently needed to make these tools both locally relevant and suitable for the basin plan.

Time for a local approach

To date, water for the environment under the basin plan has been recovered largely through centralised government-led programs. Decisions around the delivery of environmental flows are also largely in the hands of government agencies.

But other local restoration actions are also needed.

A business-as-usual approach would leave responsible agencies struggling to complete these vital local measures with limited funding, resources and accountability.

Michael Stewardson is a member of the Advisory Committee on Social, Economic and Environmental Science, which advises the Murray Darling Basin Authority,, although he is not representing the views of this committee in this article. The committee is established under Section 203 of the Water Act 2007.
Michael Stewardson is the CEO of the One Basin CRC, which is jointly funded under the commonwealth Cooperative Research Centre Program and by its partners listed here: https://onebasin.com.au/
These partners include: state and federal government agencies including the Murray Darling Basin Authority; irrigation infrastructure operators (government owned and non-government), natural resource management agencies (government and non-government); agriculture businesses, industry organisation and R&D organisations; local government organisations; consulting companies in the water sector; technology companies; education and training organisations; and research organisation. Partners contribute to the One Basin CRC in the form of in-kind and cash contributions. The One Basin CRC is also funded by the Commonwealth Environmental Water Office under its FlowMER program. The views in this article do not necessarily represent the views of these partner and funding organisations.
Michael Stewardson has previously received research funding from the Australian Research Council and both state and federal government agencies.

Neville Crossman is a Program Leader for Adaptation and Innovation in the One Basin CRC. He is a past employee of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (2018-2024). He has worked closely with a range of State and federal government agencies and many researchers, industry and community members in the Murray-Darling Basin throughout his career.

Samantha Capon receives funding from the federal Department of Climate Change, Energy Efficiency, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), NSW DCCEEW, the Cotton Research and Development Corporation. She is a member of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority’s Advisory Committee for Social, Economic and Environmental Science (ACSEES), but is not representing the view of this committee in this article. Samantha has worked closely with NRM agencies, a range of State and federal government agencies and many researchers, industry and community members in the Murray-Darling Basin throughout her career.

Seth Westra is the Research Director for the One Basin CRC. He receives funding from the federal Department of Climate Change, Energy Efficiency, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), NSW DCCEEW and the South Australian Department for Environment and Water (DEW). Seth is Research Director of the One Basin Cooperative Research Centre, Director of the Systems Cooperative, and has worked closely with NRM agencies, a range of State and federal government agencies and many researchers, industry and community members in the Murray-Darling Basin throughout his career.

– ref. The Murray–Darling Basin Plan Evaluation is out. The next step is to fix the land, not just the flows – https://theconversation.com/the-murray-darling-basin-plan-evaluation-is-out-the-next-step-is-to-fix-the-land-not-just-the-flows-261840

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

July 24, 2025

Israeli strike kills hungry Gaza family in their sleep

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

The Al-Shaer family went to bed hungry at their home in Gaza City. An Israeli airstrike killed them in their sleep.

The family – freelance journalist Wala al-Jaabari, her husband and their five children – were among more than 100 people killed in 24 hours of Israeli strikes or gunfire, according to health officials.

Their corpses lay in white shrouds outside their bombed home on Wednesday with their names scribbled in pen. Blood seeped through the shrouds as they lay there, staining them red.

“This is my cousin. He was 10. We dug them out of the rubble,” Amr al-Shaer, holding one of the bodies after retrieving it.

Iman al-Shaer, another relative who lives nearby, said the family hadn’t eaten anything before the bombs came down. “The children slept without food,” he said.

The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the strike at the family’s home, but said its air force had struck 120 targets throughout Gaza in the past day, including “terrorist cells, military structures, tunnels, booby-trapped structures, and additional terrorist infrastructure sites”.

Relatives said some neighbours were spared only because they had been out searching for food at the time of the strike.

Ten more Palestinians died overnight from starvation, the Gaza health ministry said, bringing the total number of people who have starved to death to 111, most of them in recent weeks as a wave of hunger crashes on the Palestinian enclave.

The World Health Organization said on Wednesday 21 children under the age of five were among those who died of malnutrition so far this year. It said it had been unable to deliver any food for nearly 80 days between March and May and that a resumption of food deliveries was still far below what is needed.

In a statement on Wednesday, 111 organisations, including Mercy Corps, the Norwegian Refugee Council and Refugees International, said mass starvation was spreading even as tons of food, clean water and medical supplies sit untouched just outside Gaza, where aid groups are blocked from accessing them.

Israel, which cut off all supplies to Gaza from the start of March and reopened it with new restrictions in May, says it is committed to allowing in aid but must control it to prevent it from being diverted by militants. It says it has let enough food into Gaza during the war and blames Hamas for the suffering of Gaza’s 2.2 million people.

Israel has also accused the United Nations of failing to act in a timely fashion, saying 700 truckloads of aid are idling inside Gaza. “It is time for them to pick it up and stop blaming Israel for the bottlenecks which are occurring,” Israeli government spokesman David Mercer said on Wednesday.

The United Nations and aid groups trying to deliver food to Gaza say Israel, which controls everything that comes in and out, is choking delivery, and Israeli troops have shot hundreds of Palestinians dead close to aid collection points since May.

“We have a minimum set of requirements to be able to operate inside Gaza,” Ross Smith, the director of emergencies at the U.N. World Food Programme, told Reuters. “One of the most important things I want to emphasize is that we need to have no armed actors near our distribution points, near our convoys.”

Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon told the Security Council on Wednesday that Israel will now grant only one-month visas to international staff from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

FALTERING PEACE TALKS

The war between Israel and Hamas has been raging for nearly two years since Hamas killed some 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostages from southern Israel in the deadliest attack in Israel’s history.

Israel has since killed nearly 60,000 Palestinians in Gaza, decimated Hamas as a military force, reduced most of the territory to ruins and forced nearly the entire population to flee their homes multiple times.

U.S. Middle East peace envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to hold new ceasefire talks, travelling to Europe this week for meetings on the Gaza war and a range of other issues, a U.S. official said on Tuesday.

A Palestinian official close to the Gaza ceasefire talks and the mediation efforts told Reuters on Wednesday that Hamas had handed its response on the ceasefire proposal to mediators, declining to elaborate further.

Talks on a proposal for a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which would include the release of more of the 50 hostages still being held in Gaza, are being mediated by Qatar and Egypt with Washington’s backing.

Successive rounds of negotiations have achieved no breakthrough since the collapse of a ceasefire in March.

Israel’s President Isaac Herzog told soldiers during a visit to Gaza on Wednesday that “intensive negotiations” about returning the hostages held there were underway and he hoped that they would soon “hear good news”, according to a statement.

A senior Palestinian official earlier told Reuters Hamas might give mediators a response to the latest proposals in Doha later on Wednesday, on the condition that amendments be made to two major sticking points: details on an Israeli military withdrawal, and on how to distribute aid during a truce.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet includes far-right parties that oppose any agreement that ends without the total destruction of Hamas.

“The second I spot weakness in the prime minister and if I come to think, heaven forbid, that this is about to end with us surrendering instead of with Hamas’s absolute surrender, I won’t remain (in the government) for even a single day,” Finance Minister Belalel Smotrich told Army Radio.

(Reuters)

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI China: China’s basic medical insurance covers 95 pct of population

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

BEIJING, July 24 — During the 2021-2025 period, China’s basic medical insurance has maintained a coverage rate of around 95 percent, with over 1.32 billion people enrolled in 2024, according to the National Healthcare Security Administration.

Zhang Ke, head of the administration, unveiled the data at a press conference on Thursday.

From 2021 to 2024, nearly 20 billion medical visits received insurance reimbursements, Zhang said, noting that the number in 2024 was 1.6 times higher than in 2020.

MIL OSI China News –

July 24, 2025

MIL-OSI China: China boosts medical insurance spending on innovative drugs

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

BEIJING, July 24 — During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), China’s medical insurance spending on drugs newly included in the negotiations list, or the innovative drugs, grew significantly, increasing by 40 percent annually, an official from the National Healthcare Security Administration said on Thursday.

In 2024, related spending reached 3.9 times the amount recorded in 2020, Zhang Ke, head of the administration, told a press conference.

During this period, medical insurance fund expenditures totaled 12.13 trillion yuan (about 1.7 trillion U.S. dollars), growing at an average annual rate of 9.1 percent, Zhang said.

MIL OSI China News –

July 24, 2025

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