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  • MIL-OSI: MARA Announces Bitcoin Production and Mining Operation Updates for May 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Record High 282 Blocks Earned in May, 38% Increase M/M
    950 Bitcoin Produced, 35% Increase M/M
    Increased BTC Holdings* to 49,179 BTC

    Fort Lauderdale, FL, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MARA Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: MARA) (“MARA” or the “Company”), a vertically integrated digital energy and infrastructure company that leverages high-intensity compute, such as bitcoin mining, to monetize excess energy and optimize power management, today published unaudited bitcoin (“bitcoin” or “BTC”) production updates for May 2025.

    Management Commentary

    “May was a record-breaking month for MARA with 282 blocks won, a 38% increase over April and a new monthly high,” said Fred Thiel, MARA’s chairman and CEO. “Our total bitcoin holdings surpassed 49,000 BTC during May and the 950 bitcoin produced were the most since the halving event in April 2024.

    “Our fully integrated tech stack is a key differentiator, and MARA Pool is the only self-owned and operated mining pool among public miners, offering greater control and efficiency. Operating our pool means no fees to external operators and retention of the full value of block rewards. Production in May also benefitted from block reward luck. Since launch, MARA Pool’s block reward luck has outperformed the network average by over 10%, contributing to our industry-leading block production.

    “We remain laser-focused on transforming MARA into a vertically integrated digital energy and infrastructure company. We believe this model gives us tighter operational control, improves cost-efficiency, and makes us more resilient to shifts in the broader economy.”

    Operational Highlights and Updates

    Figure 1: Operational Highlights

        Prior Month Comparison  
    Metric   5/31/2025     4/30/2025     % Δ  
    Number of Blocks Won 1     282       205       38 %
    BTC Produced     950       705       35 %
    Average BTC Produced per Day     30.7       23.5       31 %
    Share of available miner rewards 2     6.5 %     5.1 %     NM  
    Transaction Fees as % of Total 1     1.5 %     1.3 %     NM  
    Energized Hashrate (EH/s) 1     58.3       57.3       2.0 %
                             
    1. These metrics are MARAPool only and do not include blocks won from joint ventures.
    2. Defined as the total amount of block rewards including transaction fees that MARA earned during the period divided by the total amount of block rewards and transaction fees awarded by the Bitcoin network during the period.

    NM – Not Meaningful

    As of May 31, 2025, the Company held a total of 49,179 BTC*. MARA opted not to sell any BTC in May.

    *Includes loaned and collateralized bitcoin

    Investor Notice
    Investing in our securities involves a high degree of risk. Before making an investment decision, you should carefully consider the risks, uncertainties and forward-looking statements described under the heading “Risk Factors” in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any other periodic reports that we may file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). If any of these risks were to occur, our business, financial condition or results of operations would likely suffer. In that event, the value of our securities could decline, and you could lose part or all of your investment. The risks and uncertainties we describe are not the only ones facing us. Additional risks not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business operations. In addition, our past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance, and historical trends should not be used to anticipate results in the future. See “Forward-Looking Statements” below.

    The operational highlights and updates presented in this press release pertain solely to our BTC mining operations. Detailed information regarding our other operations can be found in our periodic reports filed with the SEC.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included in this press release are forward-looking statements. The words “may,” “will,” “could,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “intend,” “believe,” “continue,” “target” and similar expressions or variations or negatives of these words are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Such forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements related to the expected benefits of MARA’s transformation into a vertically integrated digital energy and infrastructure company. Such forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations about future events as of the date hereof and involve many risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in our forward-looking statements. Subsequent events and developments, including actual results or changes in our assumptions, may cause our views to change. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements except to the extent required by applicable law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements included herein are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. Our actual results and outcomes could differ materially from those included in these forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, the factors set forth under the heading “Risk Factors” in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K, and any other periodic reports that we may file with the SEC.

    About MARA

    MARA (NASDAQ:MARA) is a global leader in digital asset compute that develops and deploys innovative technologies to build a more sustainable and inclusive future. MARA secures the world’s preeminent blockchain ledger and supports the energy transformation by converting clean, stranded, or otherwise underutilized energy into economic value.

    For more information, visit www.mara.com, or follow us on:

    Twitter: @MARAHoldings
    LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/maraholdings
    Facebook: www.facebook.com/MARAHoldings
    Instagram: @maraholdingsinc

    MARA Company Contact:
    Telephone: 800-804-1690
    Email: ir@mara.com

    MARA Media Contact:
    Email: marathon@wachsman.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tesonet invests in Lithuanian SportsTech startup FPRO

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Tesonet is investing €2 million in the Lithuanian SportsTech startup FPRO. This is FPRO’s first round of outside investment, marking a new phase in its development. The funds will help the startup to leverage smart tech solutions to expand professional training opportunities in youth football worldwide.

    A made-in-Lithuania solution for the global football market

    FPRO is a SportsTech startup that is developing innovative football training solutions for children. Working in collaboration with UEFA-certified coaches and experts in sports science, FPRO has devised a unique interactive app for children ages 6 through 12. The app is designed to improve their technique, coordination and ball control skills.

    Having founded the Football Pro Academy back in 2018, founders Ernestas Pilypas, Darius Jankauskas, and Vilius Petkevičius were forced to move operations online during the pandemic. This was the impetus behind the development of their digital product, which was released in 2022. The platform’s user base currently consists of 140,000+ children from the UK, Germany, the US, and other countries. Most of the company’s revenue comes from sales outside of their home market.

    “Football is the most popular sport in the world, but the market is currently short on qualified coaches. We wanted to create a solution that would be accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial means or location. FPRO fills this gap by offering young athletes an accessible, tech-driven method geared towards raising their physical fitness and developing their personalities in a comprehensive way. It helps to build their self-confidence, discipline, and passion for football through a focused and personalised coaching process. We see Tesonet’s investment as confirmation that we’re on the right track,” said Vilius Petkevičius, co-founder of FPRO.

    Ambitious partnership for innovation in children’s sports

    “The sports technology market has enormous potential, and football unites billions of people worldwide. Given our substantial experience with SportsTech, the latest investment reflects our strategy to expand the sports innovation ecosystem while strengthening the community both in Lithuania and globally. This is a profitable and growing startup with a broad user base, an unstoppable team, and founders who are experts in their field. It’s a perfect combination, and one that mirrors our own values,” commented Tomas Okmanas, co-founder of Tesonet.

    Tesonet co-founder Eimantas Sabaliauskas added: “When making a decision to invest, we consider not only market potential, but also a given team’s vision and ability to solve real problems on a global scale. FPRO has created a strong product, and our goal as investors is to help them not just financially but also in terms of strategy. We see clear synergies where our contribution could help them optimise business processes, develop new revenue streams, expand their user base, and further accelerate growth internationally.”

    Another SportsTech investment in Tesonet’s portfolio

    This is not our first venture in the sports vertical. In 2022, we acquired shares in BC Žalgiris Kaunas, helping the basketball club with its digital transformation and commercial expansion. Then in 2024, we invested in basketball club BC London Lions, aiming to promote the development of young talent and bolster the club’s competitiveness internationally.

    ABOUT TESONET:

    Tesonet is one of the largest venture builders and investors in the Baltic States. It houses globally recognized companies such as joint cybersecurity powerhouse Nord Security and Surfshark, a market-leading web intelligence collection platform Oxylabs, the fastest-growing brand among hosting providers Hostinger, nexos.ai – an AI orchestration platform, and others.

    With over 3,500 in-house talents and a fully developed infrastructure, Tesonet supports, funds, and scales businesses globally. Since 2018, Tesonet has extended its reach by investing in successful ventures like Hostinger, Cast AI, Eneba, BC Žalgiris, London Lions, Artea, Zapp, Turing College, and others.

    Tesonet is known for its innovative ecosystem and strong infrastructure, which support product development, testing, and global growth. The company is dedicated to advancing technological innovation and helping grow the broader ecosystem.

    ABOUT FPRO:

    FPRO is a sports technology startup dedicated to developing innovative training solutions for children’s football. Collaborating with UEFA-certified coaches and sports university experts, FPRO has created a unique interactive mobile app designed to help children aged 6–12 improve their technique, coordination, and ball control skills.Currently, the platform is being used by over 140,000 children across the United Kingdom, Germany, the United States, and other countries.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Citizen Co-operative Bank Ltd., Noida

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated May 30, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹6.00 lakh (Rupees Six Lakh only) on The Citizen Co-operative Bank Ltd., Noida (the bank) for contravention of the provisions of Section 12B read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 (BR Act) and non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Know Your Customer (KYC)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of BR Act.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of contravention of statutory provisions/non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said provisions and directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charges against the bank were sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had:

    1. failed to ensure that prior permission of RBI was obtained by a person before issuing/allotting shares to him along with his relatives, beyond permissible limit; and

    2. failed to put in use a robust software, throwing alerts for identifying suspicious transactions.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/466

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Jammu and Kashmir State Co-operative Bank Ltd., Srinagar

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated May 30, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹2 lakh (Rupees Two Lakh only) on The Jammu and Kashmir State Co-operative Bank Ltd., Srinagar (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Know Your Customer (KYC)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 (BR Act).

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2023 and March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had failed to obtain Officially Valid Documents (OVD) of its customers while establishing the account-based relationship.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/467

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pilot restocking project boosts rare glass eels in the Kennet

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Pilot restocking project boosts rare glass eels in the Kennet

    Innovative project sees nearly 23,000 protected glass eels transferred to the River Kennet.

    Environment Agency officers releasing the eels.

    A new Environment Agency research project has seen 22,914 rare and protected glass eels swap the River Severn for a new home in the Berkshire this month.

    The eels were transferred in late April to nine locations on the Kennet chalk stream by Environment Agency fisheries specialists, initiating a research project that will monitor their development.

    Peter Gray, Environment Agency fisheries team leader, said:

    We are working hard to address the many struggles that eels face and are taking action to safeguard this critically endangered species.

    Over the coming months and years, we will closely monitor the released eels to see how they are surviving and growing. Eventually we want to discover whether this type of management produces more eels going out to sea to breed.

    Eels are born in the Sargasso Sea in the North Atlantic Ocean. From there, they float in their larval form on ocean currents towards Europe – journeying more than 3,000 miles for up to 2 years. Once they reach the coast, they turn into transparent glass eels up to 8cm long and then elvers, up to 12cm in length, swimming upstream into rivers. Here they live for around 6-10 years as juveniles/sub-adult yellow eels, before swimming downstream and eventually returning to the Sargasso Sea as mature adults to breed -silver eels.

    In the 1980s, populations of the once-common eel started to decline all around Europe; the reasons for this are unclear but may be due to over-fishing, habitat loss and fragmentation, parasites or climate change. The numbers of new, young eels arriving at our shores are now a tiny percentage of those that arrived in the 1960s and 1970s.

    Through the Environment Agency’s fisheries management programs, fish stocks are increasing to provide even more opportunities for South East anglers. Without the income from rod licences this vital work would not be possible.

    Any angler aged 13 or over, fishing on a river, canal or still water needs a licence to fish. A one-day licence costs from just £7.10, and an annual licence currently costs from just £35.80. Concessions available. Junior licences are free for 13 – 16-year-olds.

    Licences are available from www.gov.uk/get-a-fishing-licence or by calling the Environment Agency on 0344 800 5386 between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

    The Environment Agency carries out enforcement work all-year-round and is supported by partners, including the police and the Angling Trust. Fisheries enforcement work is intelligence-led, targeting known hot-spots and where illegal fishing is reported.

    The close season for coarse fishing came into effect on 15 March and runs until 15 June inclusive to prevent fishing for coarse fish in rivers and streams across England, helping to protect fish when they are spawning and supporting vulnerable stocks.

    Throughout the close season, Environment Agency officers conduct patrols to ensure anglers respect the no fishing period. Notices have been displayed in key fishing areas across the South East reminding anglers of the law.

    Anyone with information about suspected illegal fishing activities can contact the Environment Agency 24-hour incident hotline on 0800 807060 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    Contact us:

    Journalists only: 0800 141 2743 or communications_se@environment-agency.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major redevelopment scheme nears completion on key city road

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Tuesday, 3rd June 2025

    A transformation project to improve a major route which connects Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station and the city centre is nearing completion.

    Work to improve the highway across a mile-long corridor spanning College Road Cleveland Road, Shirley Road and Regent Road, in Shelton, has been ongoing since August 2023.

    As part of the scheme, a full carriageway reconstruction has been carried out – ensuring it’s fit-for-purpose for the next 20 years.

    The improvements also include new pedestrian crossings, upgraded bus stops and shelters, enhanced lighting and planting, as well as a dedicated cycle lane north of Avenue Road.

    The final section of the scheme – between Avenue Road Roundabout and Station Road – is scheduled for completion on Friday, 6 June, marking the final phase of this major redevelopment project.

    Minor outstanding works—including snagging, signage installation, bus shelter works, and final commissioning of the bus lane—are expected to be completed during summer 2025.

    Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “I am pleased that the work on College Road is nearing completion and I’m hopeful that motorists and pedestrians will feel the benefit of these improvements when travelling around the city.

    “Once complete, this transformative scheme will be a space that works for people – it will make it easier, safer and better for everyone to get around and will improve the city’s public transport links.

    “We wanted to get the road opened up as quickly as possible and our teams will be getting on with the snagging works this week to minimise disruption.

    “The Station Road scheme outside Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station continues under construction and I look forward to its completion later this summer.”

    The redevelopment of College Road is part of the city council’s Transforming Cities Fund project which aims to help connect the railway station with the city centre and new developments such as Goods Yard, improve access for buses, pedestrians and cyclists, reduce congestion and improve safety at junctions.

    The scheme will also promote a better experience for residents, commuters, visitors and students as they travel around the city – and encourage more sustainable travel by rail, bus cycling and walking.

    It has been supported by £29 million from the government’s Transforming Cities Fund (TCF) and the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Active Travel Fund.

    Overnight work to complete the final section of College Road is being carried out over the next week. This work – aside from any snagging works – will see the final road surface laid and new road markings installed. It will take place on:

    • Monday 2 June to Friday 6 June – the Avenue Road roundabout will be closed between 8pm and 6am. There will be no access to the university car park during these hours.
    • Thursday 5 June and Friday 6 June – All of the side street junctions leading to College Road, including Cauldon Road, Beresford Street, Seaford Street, Ashford Street and Queen Anne Street between 8pm and 6am.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New build council homes in Bilston delivered in less than 9 months

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Developer Morro Partnerships Limited started construction on the City of Wolverhampton Council development of 7, 2 bedroom houses, 2, 3 bedroom houses and 2, 4 bedroom houses on Ettingshall Road, in September.

    The homes – built using sustainable building methods and modern timber frame construction – have this week been handed over to Wolverhampton Homes ready for the first tenants to move in.

    Each of the ‘A’ Rated, gas free homes come with solar panels and bring back into use land that had been blighted by fly-tipping in recent years.

    The houses are part of the latest phase of new council homes coming forward across the city, with development works underway or set to start in the coming months on 81 properties across 6 sites.

    The development has been supported by a £715,000 grant from Homes England.

    Councillor Stephen Simkins, City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, said: “This is a great example of how we are delivering good quality homes at pace and bringing small disused sites back into use for the benefit of our residents and communities.

    “There is an increasing demand for housing and this forms part of our pipeline of new council properties we are developing sustainably to deliver more good homes in well connected neighbourhoods across the city.

    “This development also builds substantially on the investment already made in Bilston in recent years that is seeing the town flourish and the homes will be allocated to local people in line with the council’s official housing allocations policy.”

    The carbon footprint of a timber frame is less than traditional structures, and this modern method of construction also helps to reduce energy consumption, helping to keep residents’ bills to a minimum.

    This is consistent with Morro’s pipeline of affordable homes across the Midlands, as part of their commitment to being better environment and better community makers.

    The Ettingshall Road development also included a dedicated segregation zone, with all materials being recycled on site. This reduces the amount being sent to landfill, whilst enabling materials to be recycled back into the environment quickly and efficiently.

    Tom Broadway, Managing Director at Morro Partnerships, said: “Having worked with Wolverhampton Council for some time now, it’s great to continue this relationship and help establish more sustainable communities. Transforming land such as this site in Bilston is so important to boost local pride, as well as providing places where people want to live.

    “These 11 homes have been designed with energy efficiency in mind, reducing bills and making life more comfortable for residents now and into the future. We look forward to continuing our pipeline of work in Wolverhampton, making a positive impact on neighbourhoods across the city.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on Non-Statutory Community Libraries

    Source: City of Derby

    Following extensive negotiations and a thorough review of proposed working models, Derby City Council has withdrawn from the process of appointing Sporting Communities, a not-for-profit organisation, to run Derby’s ten non-statutory community libraries.

    Councillor Sarah Chambers, Cabinet Member for Cost of Living, Equalities and Communities said:

    The formal evaluation process was devised with the express aim of identifying a partner who would support our long-term ambition to deliver a sustainable future for our library services and the people of Derby. 

    While negotiations with the preferred bidder began with considerable optimism and a shared desire to find an optimal solution, it has become clear during this detailed phase that outsourcing is not the best approach to protect our libraries.

    The decision to withdraw from negotiations means the Council’s library service will continue to run the libraries. I want to reassure public, staff and volunteers that we remain committed to the future success of our libraries and our manifesto commitment to protect them.

    We will continue to deliver an efficient, high-quality public service and aspire to improve that service to a standard that is truly fit for the people of Derby.

    I’d like to thank our dedicated staff and invaluable volunteers who have continued to provide an excellent standard of service throughout this period of review. Their commitment and hard work are deeply appreciated.

    We will continue dialogue with Sporting Communities on how we can work together to deliver quality services for our citizens.

    We will now take time to assess next steps which will be discussed in detail at a future Cabinet meeting.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Minister Smyth address to Medicine 2025 conference

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Speech

    Minister Smyth address to Medicine 2025 conference

    Minister Smyth addressed the annual conference of the Royal College of Physicians (RCP).

    Since 1948, this organisation has been one of the greatest allies advocating for universal access to healthcare, high standards in clinical practice and evidence-based medicine.

    And today, I really want to thank our members for everything that you have done over the past 14 years to hold our NHS together.

    Through no fault of your own, you’ve been through the worst crisis in the history of the NHS, with waiting lists at historic highs, patient satisfaction at record lows, people struggling to see a GP, ambulances not turning up on time. Any department is full to bursting. That founding promise, that the NHS will always be there for us when we need it, broken.

    But as someone who had my own career 30 years ago in the health service, I completely understand how demoralising this has been for so many staff, how powerless people have felt desperately trying to stop standards slipping or holding a broken system together.

    That’s how I felt as an NHS leader locally, watching the disastrous 2012 reorganisation imposed from the top down, despite all the warnings from frontline leaders and staff. And since then we’ve also had to deal with underinvestment and the global pandemic.

    But while those blows may have left the NHS broken, it’s not beaten. Every day there are amazing people delivering outstanding and compassionate care. Despite all of those challenges, day in, day out, you show up for work and you fight to deliver the very best care possible for your patients.

    Since coming into office, this government has done everything we can to support you. To restore that basic founding principle that the NHS should always be there for us when we need it. With our Plan for Change, we have hit the ground running.

    As our first step, we promised 2 million more appointments in our first year. Promise made, promise kept: we delivered our promise 7 months early and we’ve reached our target, delivering not 2 but 3 million more appointments since July, and counting.

    We’ve got waiting lists down by over 200,000 people.

    We ended the strike within 3 weeks and have now delivered 2 above-inflation pay rises for NHS staff.

    We’ve invested an extra £26 billion in health and care.

    We’ve recruited 1,500 more GPs, and agreed a GP contract for the first time since the pandemic.

    We’ve delivered the biggest investment to hospitals in a generation.

    The biggest expansion of carer’s allowance since the 1970s.

    A boost for older and disabled people through the Disabled Facilities Grant.

    The biggest real-terms increase to the Public Health Grant in nearly a decade.

    We’ve given pharmacies the biggest funding uplift in a generation.

    For patients, we’ve frozen prescription charges.

    We’ve struck a new deal that will mean women will be able to get the morning-after pill from pharmacies across the country, absolutely free of charge.

    A lot done but, we know, a hell of a lot more left to do.

    But from day one we have been clear that investment must come with reform.

    Our job is twofold.

    First, to get the NHS back on its feet, treating patients on time again; and second, to reform the service for the long term, so it is fit for the future.

    This summer we will publish our 10 Year Plan for health. Shifting the focus of healthcare out of hospital and into the community with more investment in primary and community care.

    Bringing our analogue health service into the digital age, arming staff with modern equipment and cutting-edge technology.

    And thirdly, turning our sickness service into a preventative health service to help people live well for longer and tackle the biggest killers.

    We’re supporting the effort of prevention through our smoking and vapes bill, to protect children and the most vulnerable to make this generation of kids the first smoke-free generation, and to save untold billions spent on their future care.

    The ban on junk food advertising targeted at children will be a first step in addressing the growing problem of childhood obesity, and those same kids are benefiting from breakfast clubs, so they start school with hungry minds and not hungry bellies.

    Our Mental Health Bill will stop the disgraceful incarceration of learning-disabled adults.

    We’re working with health unions, councils and employers to deliver the first ever Fair Pay Agreement for social care staff.

    And Louise Casey is leading the commission on social care, which will finally get a grip on a system that is broken for too many families.

    Because, as you all know so well, the pressures facing hospitals don’t start in hospitals, just as the problems facing the NHS don’t necessarily start in the NHS. They are a reflection of wider society.

    Fixing broken Britain will require more than fixing a broken NHS.

    After this speech, I’m going to add my own Post-it note to your interactive map.

    When my team asked me to think about the most pressing issue in my constituency of Bristol South, I was very quick to answer. Poverty.

    The health service can fix people when they’re broken, but we don’t want people broken.

    The factors that make my constituents unwell are wide-ranging, socioeconomic and environmental.

    In other words, the conditions in which we are born, grow, live and work. Secure jobs. Fair pay. Decent housing. Safe streets. Clean air. Accessible transport. The time and affordable facilities to exercise, and nutritious food.

    These are the essential building blocks of a healthy life.

    And that’s why this government is focused on economic growth and improving healthy life expectancy for all, while halving the gap in healthy life expectancy between different regions of England.

    And it’s why reform of the health service is so important, because every pound we spend on the health service is a pound that can’t be spent on what you and I call the social determinants of ill health, but what everyone else calls feeding hungry children, building warm homes and cleaning up our water and the air that we breathe.

    The NHS has often been compared to an oil tanker that has immense capacity but is slow to change direction. Shifting the focus of our health service will be an immense task and one that we can only accomplish with your help.

    We’ve already been clear that we’re embarking on a decade of national renewal and that’s why we’re launching a 10 Year Plan.

    Since coming into office, we’ve sought to reset the relationship with medics to improve working lives and restore value.

    This government was never going to be able to completely reverse a decade and a half of decline in only 10 months, but this year’s pay awards, the second above inflation pay rise in a row, demonstrates our commitment to rebuilding the NHS and rebuilding the pay conditions and morale of all NHS staff.

    When I joined the NHS 30 years ago, I saw the NHS at what I thought was the worst.

    I remember later on working with the team at the Bristol Royal Infirmary on urgent care, discussing those awful trolley waits, coming into work every day, people trying to find a space or somewhere to discharge people from A&E, conversations that, sadly, are all too familiar again today.

    But I also saw, especially in the years leading up to 2010, the pride people have when they’re working in an improving, well-run system.

    When you’re able to go home at the end of the day, knowing that your patients received the best possible care, and the pride, you know that you’re working at the top of your license as part of a team rebuilding a healthier Britain.

    The NHS cannot be saved by one person sitting behind a desk in Whitehall.

    We will only succeed if this is a team effort. From the Prime Minister to the 1.5 million people who work in the service, and the millions of us who use it to take decisions needed to lead healthier, more active lives.

    Turning the NHS around will take time.

    It really won’t be easy, but the prize, the prize available to us is huge and if we get this right, we will be able to say that we were the generation that took the NHS from the worst crisis in its history, got it back on its feet and made it fit for future generations.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Symposium advances talent hub

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today hosted the Forging a National High-calibre Talent Hub Symposium, gathering about 150 representatives from the Mainland, Macau and Hong Kong.

    At the symposium themed “Regional Collaboration, Empowerment through Science & Education, Global Talent Attraction”, participants exchanged views on promoting regional collaborative ties on talent work and the strategic development of a national high-calibre talent hub.

    The participants were from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong Province, the nine Mainland cities and four major co-operation platforms of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the Macao Special Administrative Region, as well as 23 renowned universities on the Mainland and five of the world’s top 100 universities in Hong Kong.

    In his welcome remarks, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki said education, technology and talent form the critical foundation for developing new quality productive forces and enhancing high-quality development.

    He added that the Hong Kong SAR Government’s Committee on Education, Technology & Talents is targeting the manpower demand of Hong Kong’s strategic positioning of the “eight centres” and co-ordinating the promotion of integrated development of education, technology and talent to build Hong Kong as an international hub for high-calibre talent.

    The symposium featured keynote speeches and two thematic panel discussions.

    Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun, together with government officials from Beijing, Shanghai and Guangdong Province joined the first discussion to explore ways to synergise regional strengths in building the talent hub. 

    Mr Sun also witnessed Hong Kong Talent Engage Director Anthony Lau sign a Memorandum of Understanding with representatives from the Shenzhen Qianhai Cooperation Zone and Guangzhou Nansha District respectively, deepening collaboration in talent recruitment, services, employment and development between Hong Kong and the two regions.

    In his closing remarks, the labour chief highlighted Hong Kong’s various advantages in attracting global talent and the need to collaborate with different regions across the country through interdependence and mutual reinforcement, thereby accelerating the development of the national high-calibre talent hub.

    He expects the symposium, together with the second Global Talent Summit · Hong Kong scheduled for early next year, would bring together valuable experiences from various regions in talent attraction, retention, nurturing and recruitment, to inject new impetus into high-quality development and achieve the vision of developing a national quality workforce.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Enlight Secures Financing for Spain’s Largest Hybrid Renewable Energy Project

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Enlight expands its successful Gecama Wind Project, transforming it into the largest hybrid power complex of its kind in Spain
    • The project combines wind, solar, and utility-scale battery storage to deliver clean electricity around the clock
    • The hybrid project, with a total capacity of 554 MW and 220 MWh, is expected to generate approximately $100 million in annual revenue
    • The project, among the first in Spain to incorporate a utility-scale battery energy storage system, is expected to enhance grid stability following extended blackouts recently experienced in the country

    TEL AVIV, Israel, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enlight Renewable Energy (“Enlight”, “the Company”, NASDAQ: ENLT, TASE: ENLT.TA), a leading renewable energy platform, today announced the signing of financing agreements totaling approximately $310 million for the Hybridisation of the Gecama Project in Spain. As part of the project, Enlight will integrate a solar array and utility-scale energy storage system at its operational Gecama facility. Gecama is currently the country’s largest wind farm, with a capacity of 329 MW.

    The integrated facility, with a total capacity of 554 MW and 220 MWh, will deliver clean electricity around the clock at a competitive cost of generation, yielding high returns. This performance is made possible by combining technologies with complementary generation profiles throughout most of the day, alongside a battery system that enables optimized use of energy resources.

    Once completed, the Gecama Hybrid Project is expected to become the largest renewable energy complex of its kind in Spain and to play a key role in advancing storage infrastructure in line with the Spanish national plan to combat climate change and enhance energy supply stability. The need for such energy storage systems is particularly pressing considering the widespread blackouts Spain experienced in April 2025.

    Enlight is among the first to deploy utility-scale battery storage at this scale in Spain. The battery system will also support peak shifting – storing electricity when prices are low and discharging during high-demand periods – thereby increasing the project’s profitability. Additionally, it will provide essential grid services such as frequency response, helping stabilize the power system through rapid charge and discharge capabilities.

    Subject to the completion of final development milestones, the solar and storage components of the Hybrid Project are expected to reach commercial operation (COD) in the second half of 2026. Their addition is expected to increase the Gecama Project’s annual revenues by $38–40 million and EBITDA by $31–33 million in the first full year of operation. With all three components in full operation, the integrated project is expected to generate annual revenues of $95–105 million and EBITDA of $75–80 million.

    The financing transaction of approximately $310 million includes two tranches: covering the refinancing of the Gecama Wind Project and financing for the construction of the Hybrid Project. Both tranches bear a fixed interest rate of ~5.1% and will be fully amortizing by 2045 and 2046, respectively.

    After repaying the existing debt and funding necessary reserves and transaction costs, over $150 million of the secured debt will be allocated to the construction of the Hybrid Project, with a total estimated cost of $195–205 million, while the remaining balance will be funded through equity.

    The financing is led by the MEAG Infrastructure Debt Transactions team, acting as sole arranger in its capacity as portfolio manager of certain funds and accounts, along with additional institutional co-investors. MEAG is the asset management arm of Munich Re, one of the world’s leading providers of reinsurance, primary insurance and insurance-related risk solutions.

    The financing is structured on a merchant basis – which grants the Company full discretion to sell the project’s entire electricity output on the open market, without a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) – This approach reflects the high level of confidence in Enlight’s management capabilities and the economic potential of the Gecama site.

    This model, combined with elevated electricity prices in Europe, has enabled Enlight to generate high returns and recover more than 50% of its equity investment in the wind project within a relatively short period since the facility’s commercial operation in 2022.

    Benjamin Hemming, Head of MEAG Illiquid Assets Debt: “We are thrilled to have supported Enlight in this groundbreaking project, which showcases the potential for hybrid renewable energy solutions to transform the way we generate and consume energy. The Gecama Hybridisation Project is a testament to the innovative spirit of our partners and the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions. We are proud to have worked alongside Enlight and other stakeholders to bring this project to life, and we look forward to seeing its impact on Spain’s energy landscape.”

    Isil Tanriverdi Versmissen, Head of MEAG Infrastructure Debt: “The Gecama Hybridisation Project is a perfect example of the power of collaboration and innovative financing solutions in driving the transition to a low-carbon economy. We would like to extend our appreciation to Enlight for their vision and leadership in developing this project, and to our deal team for their tireless efforts in bringing this complex transaction to a successful close. As a debt provider, we are committed to supporting projects that make a positive impact on the environment and the communities they serve, and we believe that the Gecama Hybridisation Project will be a landmark example of this commitment in action.”

    Gilad Yavetz, CEO of Enlight: “With the financial close at Gecama, Enlight marks another significant milestone in its European activity, by expanding one of its core assets into Spain’s first hybrid complex of its kind. This move is groundbreaking on two levels – establishing the country’s largest renewable energy complex and demonstrating technological leadership through the integration of utility-scale battery storage. The project reflects our Connect & Expand strategy – maximizing the potential of existing interconnection infrastructure to scale projects – reducing investment costs, minimizing risk, lowering the levelized cost of electricity and optimizing financial returns. Gecama Hybrid joins a lineup of mega-projects we are currently advancing as part of a broad growth plan set to unfold during 2025 across Europe, Israel, and the U.S. We are proud to have MEAG as the lead arranger in this transaction, and greatly value their trust, professionalism, and partnership in advancing such an ambitious and impactful project.”

    Enlight was supported by reputable advisors in the transaction. BNP Paribas acted as the sole financial advisor and DLA Piper as the Legal advisor in the transaction.

    MEAG was supported by Linklaters acting as the lenders’ legal advisor and by G-Advisory and Hartford Steam Boiler acting as technical advisors to the lenders

    *Enlight indirectly holds approximately 72% of the Gecama Project through its subsidiary, with the remaining interest held by several Israeli institutional investors.

    About Enlight

    Founded in 2008, Enlight develops, finances, constructs, owns, and operates utility-scale renewable energy projects. Enlight operates across the three largest renewable segments today: solar, wind and energy storage. A global platform, Enlight operates in the United States, Israel and 10 European countries. Enlight has been traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange since 2010 (TASE: ENLT) and completed its U.S. IPO (Nasdaq: ENLT) in 2023. Learn more at www.enlightenergy.co.il.

    Investor Contact
    Yonah Weisz
    Director IR
    investors@enlightenergy.co.il

    Erica Mannion or Mike Funari
    Sapphire Investor Relations, LLC
    +1 617 542 6180
    investors@enlightenergy.co.il

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements as contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company’s expectations relating to the Project, the PPA and the related interconnection agreement and lease option, and the completion timeline for the Project, are forward-looking statements. The words “may,” “might,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “target,” “seek,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “contemplate,” “possible,” “forecasts,” “aims” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, though not all forward-looking statements use these words or expressions. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the following: our ability to site suitable land for, and otherwise source, renewable energy projects and to successfully develop and convert them into Operational Projects; availability of, and access to, interconnection facilities and transmission systems; our ability to obtain and maintain governmental and other regulatory approvals and permits, including environmental approvals and permits; construction delays, operational delays and supply chain disruptions leading to increased cost of materials required for the construction of our projects, as well as cost overruns and delays related to disputes with contractors; our suppliers’ ability and willingness to perform both existing and future obligations; competition from traditional and renewable energy companies in developing renewable energy projects; potential slowed demand for renewable energy projects and our ability to enter into new offtake contracts on acceptable terms and prices as current offtake contracts expire; offtakers’ ability to terminate contracts or seek other remedies resulting from failure of our projects to meet development, operational or performance benchmarks; various technical and operational challenges leading to unplanned outages, reduced output, interconnection or termination issues; the dependence of our production and revenue on suitable meteorological and environmental conditions, and our ability to accurately predict such conditions; our ability to enforce warranties provided by our counterparties in the event that our projects do not perform as expected; government curtailment, energy price caps and other government actions that restrict or reduce the profitability of renewable energy production; electricity price volatility, unusual weather conditions (including the effects of climate change, could adversely affect wind and solar conditions), catastrophic weather-related or other damage to facilities, unscheduled generation outages, maintenance or repairs, unanticipated changes to availability due to higher demand, shortages, transportation problems or other developments, environmental incidents, or electric transmission system constraints and the possibility that we may not have adequate insurance to cover losses as a result of such hazards; our dependence on certain operational projects for a substantial portion of our cash flows; our ability to continue to grow our portfolio of projects through successful acquisitions; changes and advances in technology that impair or eliminate the competitive advantage of our projects or upsets the expectations underlying investments in our technologies; our ability to effectively anticipate and manage cost inflation, interest rate risk, currency exchange fluctuations and other macroeconomic conditions that impact our business; our ability to retain and attract key personnel; our ability to manage legal and regulatory compliance and litigation risk across our global corporate structure; our ability to protect our business from, and manage the impact of, cyber-attacks, disruptions and security incidents, as well as acts of terrorism or war; changes to existing renewable energy industry policies and regulations that present technical, regulatory and economic barriers to renewable energy projects; the reduction, elimination or expiration of government incentives for, or regulations mandating the use of, renewable energy; our ability to effectively manage our supply chain and comply with applicable regulations with respect to international trade relations, the impact of tariffs on the cost of construction and our ability to mitigate such impact, sanctions, export controls and anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws; our ability to effectively comply with Environmental Health and Safety and other laws and regulations and receive and maintain all necessary licenses, permits and authorizations; our performance of various obligations under the terms of our indebtedness (and the indebtedness of our subsidiaries that we guarantee) and our ability to continue to secure project financing on attractive terms for our projects; limitations on our management rights and operational flexibility due to our use of tax equity arrangements; potential claims and disagreements with partners, investors and other counterparties that could reduce our right to cash flows generated by our projects; our ability to comply with tax laws of various jurisdictions in which we currently operate as well as the tax laws in jurisdictions in which we intend to operate in the future; the unknown effect of the dual listing of our ordinary shares on the price of our ordinary shares; various risks related to our incorporation and location in Israel; the costs and requirements of being a public company, including the diversion of management’s attention with respect to such requirements; certain provisions in our Articles of Association and certain applicable regulations that may delay or prevent a change of control; and other risk factors set forth in the section titled “Risk factors” in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and our other documents filed with or furnished to the SEC.

    These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as may be required by applicable law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    The MIL Network –

  • More than 4 million refugees have fled Sudan civil war, UN says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The number of people who have fled Sudan since the beginning of its civil war in 2023 has surpassed four million, U.N. refugee agency officials said on Tuesday, adding that many survivors faced inadequate shelter due to funding shortages.

    “Now in its third year, the 4 million people is a devastating milestone in what is the world’s most damaging displacement crisis at the moment,” U.N. refugee agency spokesperson Eujin Byun told a Geneva press briefing.

    “If the conflict continues in Sudan, thousands more people, we expect thousands more people will continue to flee, putting regional and global stability at stake,” she said.

    Sudan, which erupted in violence in April 2023, shares borders with seven countries: Chad, South Sudan, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Central African Republic and Libya.

    More than 800,000 of the refugees have arrived in Chad, where their shelter conditions are dire due to funding shortages, with only 14% of funding appeals met, UNHCR’s Dossou Patrice Ahouansou told the same briefing.

    “This is an unprecedented crisis that we are facing. This is a crisis of humanity. This is a crisis of … protection based on the violence that refugees are reporting,” he said.

    Many of those fleeing reported surviving terror and violence, he added, describing meeting a seven-year-old girl in Chad who was hurt in an attack on her home in Sudan’s Zamzam displacement camp that killed her father and two brothers and had to have her leg amputated during her escape. Her mother had been killed in an earlier attack, he said.

    Other refugees told stories of armed groups taking their horses and donkeys and forcing adults to draw their own family members by cart as they fled, he said.

    (Reuters)

  • India’s cultural revival: a journey of pride and progress over 11 years

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Over the past eleven years, the Government of India has embarked on a wide-ranging cultural renaissance, blending tradition with progress and positioning India’s heritage at the heart of its national identity. From restoring ancient temples to honouring forgotten heroes, the country’s cultural revival is now seen as a pillar of both pride and progress.

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government has prioritised the preservation, redevelopment and celebration of India’s civilisational legacy. Key religious and cultural landmarks across the country have witnessed transformative redevelopment, with improved infrastructure and public facilities designed to enhance the experience of pilgrims and tourists alike.

    Transforming Sacred Spaces

    The redevelopment of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi is among the most notable projects. The corridor has opened up previously congested lanes around the temple and connected it directly to the ghats of the Ganga, allowing lakhs of devotees to visit in a more streamlined and spiritually immersive environment.

    In Ujjain, the Mahakaal Lok Project has brought world-class amenities to the Mahakaleshwar Temple complex. The newly developed corridor and facilities reflect both ancient architecture and modern planning, turning the site into a cultural hub for spiritual tourism.

    The Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, inaugurated in January 2024, has emerged as a major symbol of faith and heritage. The grand temple is not only a place of worship but also a tribute to the civilisational ethos that has shaped India’s spiritual history.

    Other key sites include Kedarnath in Uttarakhand, where integrated development work has restored access and beauty to the revered Himalayan shrine. The installation of the statue of Adi Shankaracharya, rebuilt after destruction in the 2013 floods, is a powerful reminder of India’s enduring spiritual continuity.

    Redevelopment efforts are also underway at the Juna Somnath Temple, including the construction of a scenic promenade and the Parvati Mandir, further enhancing the sanctity and accessibility of the Somnath complex.

    In the northeast, Ma Kamakhya Temple in Assam has received infrastructure upgrades and pilgrim-friendly facilities, marking the government’s commitment to cultural sites across regions.

    Protecting Intangible Heritage

    Beyond physical sites, the government has also turned its attention to India’s intangible cultural heritage. Traditional art forms such as classical music, dance, and folk traditions are being preserved using modern digital tools. Efforts are underway to ensure that these time-honoured practices are passed on to future generations through institutional support and innovation.

    Remembering the Forgotten

    In a move to correct historical oversight, the government has placed renewed focus on honouring unsung heroes of India’s past. Through national memorials, educational campaigns and cultural programming, these forgotten figures are being reintegrated into India’s national consciousness.

    A Civilisational Mission

    The press release notes that these efforts reflect a broader civilisational mission: to preserve the spirit of India’s heritage while ensuring that culture and tradition evolve in harmony with advancements in technology, health, and infrastructure.

    With projects that blend spiritual heritage, technological innovation, and inclusive access, India’s approach to cultural revival is both ambitious and holistic. As the nation looks to the future, it is doing so with one foot firmly planted in its rich and diverse past.

  • Indian delegation concludes visit to Liberia strengthening global consensus against terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An all-party Indian Parliamentary delegation led by Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Eknath Shinde concluded three-day visit to Liberia on Monday, reinforcing India’s global campaign against terrorism and strengthening bilateral ties with the West African nation.

    The delegation held meetings with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President Pro-Tempore of the Senate, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

    The delegation conveyed appreciation for President Boakai’s statement of condolence and condemnation addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22. They also acknowledged Liberia’s upcoming tenure as non-permanent member of UNSC for the term 2026-27 and its role from the platform in advancing the fight against terrorism.

    The Liberian leadership, in turn, reaffirmed its support for India’s principled response through “Operation Sindoor”, and emphasised the need for unified international efforts to combat terrorism.

    In his address to the Liberian Senate, first time by any Indian MP, Shinde spoke about India’s firm stand against cross-border terrorism and underlined the need for international solidarity in confronting the global menace.

    The delegation also met Liberian parliamentarians, think tanks, and members of the local media. The Liberian parliamentarians observed a moment of silence in memory of the Pahalgam terror attack victims.

    According to the Indian Embassy in Liberia, “The visit not only reflected the enduring friendship between India and Liberia, but also highlighted the two nations’ shared, unwavering stance against terrorism.”

    The Liberia visit concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to work together in building a peaceful, secure, and terror-free world.

    Apart from Shinde, the delegation included Bansuri Swaraj, Atul Garg, Manan Kumar Mishra, Sasmit Patra, E.T. Mohammed Basheer, S.S. Ahluwalia, and former Ambassador Sujan Chinoy.

  • Egypt: Indian delegation meets Arab League chief, stresses unified stance against terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An all-party Indian Parliamentary delegation led by NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule called on League of Arab States Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit on Tuesday, underscoring India’s unified stance and collective determination to combat terrorism.

    The leaders stressed that countering terrorism is a priority for both the Arab League and India. The discussions focused on India’s wide-ranging political, economic, and cultural engagement with the Arab States.

    The delegation also had an engaging interaction with the vibrant Indian community in Egypt.

    “The community welcomed the visit of the delegation and the message carried by them to combat terrorism,” said the Indian Embassy in Cairo.

    On Monday, the delegation was briefed by Indian Ambassador to Egypt Suresh Reddy on the India-Egypt Strategic Partnership, Egypt’s strong stance against terrorism, solidarity with India after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, and the close bilateral collaboration on counter-terrorism.

    Later, the delegation had a fruitful engagement at the Egyptian Senate House with Senator Hossam Al-Khouly of Mostaqbal Watan Party and MP Hazem Omar, including the Chairpersons and members of other Parliamentary Committees.

    The Senate reaffirmed solidarity with India and reiterated the importance attached to the close strategic partnership between India and Egypt.

    This was followed by productive discussions with Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman MP Karim Darwish and other distinguished members of the Egyptian House of Representatives.

    The Indian parliamentarians also had insightful discussions with key interlocutors in Egypt, including former Ministers, distinguished authors and thought leaders. The discussions facilitated an enhanced understanding and appreciation of India’s commitment to economic growth, equitable development, and zero tolerance to terrorism.

    The delegation also paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at the Al-Horreya Park in Zamalek, Cairo.

    The delegation, a part of India’s diplomatic outreach on Operation Sindoor and carrying forth India’s strong message on zero-tolerance against terrorism, reached Egypt after concluding a successful visit to Ethiopia, South Africa, and Qatar.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Winfrith nuclear site: Have your say on decommissioning permits

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Winfrith nuclear site: Have your say on decommissioning permits

    Feedback wanted on environmental permits which propose leaving some low-level radioactive waste at the Dorset nuclear site as part of decommissioning.

    Winfrith will be knocked down and if permits are changed some low level radioactive waste will be buried.

    • This is the first time in England a company has proposed to do decommissioning work under the EA’s 2018 guidance.
    • Share your views on the proposals now that the consultation is open until 5 September.
    • If granted permission, the company will leave some low-level radioactive waste at the site.

    Feedback and views are being sought with the launch of a consultation on environmental permits to continue work to decommission the Winfrith nuclear site in Dorset.

    The site is operated by Nuclear Restoration Services Ltd (NRS). It operated between 1959 and 1992 and is now in the final stages of decommissioning. All the buildings will be knocked down and the site will be returned to heathland with public access.

    Decommissioning to follow fresh guidance for first time

    In a first for England, NRS will be using our “Guidance on Requirements for Release from Radioactive Substances Regulation,” (GRR) to progress site decommissioning to the next stage. The company has applied to the Environment Agency to vary its Radioactive Substances Regulations permit and for a new permit for non-radioactive waste:

    • NRS is proposing to bury some of the demolition waste on site and some of this will be low level radioactive waste. The company is applying to change its Radioactive Substances Regulations environmental permit to allow this.
    • NRS is also asking for a new Deposit for Recovery Environmental Permit to allow it to deposit non-radioactive waste at the site.

    The GRR guidance allows operators to leave radioactive and non-radioactive waste on site if it represents the best option after balancing social, economic and environmental factors.

    There can be benefits to leaving waste on site such as reduced lorry movements, earlier decommissioning of sites, and it saves space in national disposal facilities for waste that cannot be safely disposed of on-site. NRS must demonstrate these benefits to the Environment Agency.

    Winfrith operated between 1959 and 1992 and is now in the final stages of decommissioning.

    Sally Coble, the Environment Agency’s Nuclear Regulation Group south manager, said:

    We want to hear as many views as possible about the NRS proposals, and all comments will be carefully considered along with all existing information.

    We will only vary the radioactive substances permit if we believe that harm to the environment, people and wildlife will be minimised.

    If the applicant can demonstrate that the varied permit will meet all of the legal requirements, including those for the use of Best Available Techniques (BAT), public radiation dose and wildlife radiation dose, then we are legally obliged to grant the application.

    We intend to consult again in spring 2026 on our likely decision, before publishing a final decision in autumn 2026.

    Proposal to bury below ground structures with demolition waste

    Both the Steam Generating Heavy Water Reactor (SGHWR) and the Dragon reactor, the first experimental high temperature gas-cooled reactor, have large sub-surface structures or basements constructed from reinforced concrete.

    NRS plans to demolish all remaining site buildings including the reactor buildings to ground level and to use the demolition wastes produced to backfill the sub-surface structures. An engineered cap will be placed on top of the disposals to prevent rain getting in and this will likely be made from an artificial liner, a thick clay layer and a soil layer. 

    Some of the floors and walls of the sub-surface structures have low level radioactive contamination and some of the waste that will be used to backfill the structure will be low level radioactive waste.

    NRS will not be importing any waste to site from other locations. Only waste from the on-site demolition work will be used to fill the sub-surface structures.

    How to have your say

    You can have your say by submitting comments on our Citizen Space consultation pages:

    Please use the permit reference numbers if you contact us. All comments must be received by 11.59pm on 5 September 2025.

    Background

    The Environment Agency is the independent environmental regulator for the nuclear industry in England. We make sure that nuclear power stations and radioactive waste disposal sites meet our high standards of environmental protection throughout the stages of design, construction, operation and decommissioning.

    Operators of nuclear sites in England must have a permit for radioactive substances activities from the Environment Agency under the Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016 (EPR16). The environmental permits we issue to nuclear site operators contain strict conditions (rules) that they must follow at all times. See our decommissioning of nuclear sites and release from regulation guidance.

    Why we ask for the public’s views:

    • We aim to build and maintain confidence in our decision-making processes through our public engagement and consultation.
    • It is our responsibility to make decisions about environmental permit applications for radioactive waste disposal, but we consider that our decisions can be improved through consultation with a wide range of stakeholders.
    • We can all help to protect and improve the environment by being actively involved. Our public participation statement shows how our process is open, transparent and consultative.
    • Our approach to consultation is in line with the government’s published consultation principles. We would like people to understand our role in relation to radioactive waste disposal, what we are doing and why it’s important.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Hinkley Point B power station: Have your say on permit changes

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Hinkley Point B power station: Have your say on permit changes

    EDF Energy wants to change its existing radioactive substances environmental permit for the Hinkley Point B power station in Bridgwater, Somerset.

    EDF Energy wants to change its permit now that certain radioisotopes are no longer produced.

    • EDF Energy Nuclear Generation Ltd has applied to the Environment Agency to make changes to parts of its radioactive substances environmental permit.
    • Proposed permit changes would more accurately reflect the reducing radiological hazard and risks from Hinkley Point B.
    • The consultation will close on 1 July 2025.

    The Environment Agency is consulting on these specific permit application changes to give people the opportunity to understand the proposed changes and have their say on future decision making.

    The permit controls the receipt and disposal of radioactive waste and imposes conditions and limits on radioactive discharges to the environment. 

    Hinkley Point B’s advanced gas cooled reactors stopped generating power after 46 years in August 2022. It is currently in the defueling stage and working towards ‘Fuel Free Status’ before entering decommissioning. 

    Sally Coble, the Environment Agency’s Nuclear Regulation Group south manager, said:

    We have been working with EDF Energy on its application to vary parts of the environmental permit.

    The company is proposing to remove some radionuclide limits in its permit because certain radioisotopes are no longer produced. The proposed changes would more accurately reflect the reducing radiological hazard and risks from Hinkley Point B

    Our consultation is now open. We are encouraging people to learn more about the proposed changes and provide us with any information that they think is relevant to decision making.

    How to have your say

    The Environment Agency will carefully consider all the relevant feedback received during the consultation, together with existing information. Our decision will be available on the public register by September 2025. 

    Our engagement with the community around the Hinkley site will continue through our own ‘Meet the Regulator’ meeting, the site stakeholder group and Hinkley C’s community forum.  

    The application and other supporting documents are available for you to view on Citizen Space. 

    The consultation starts on Tuesday 3 June 2025 and closes on Tuesday 1 July 2025. 

    Read about regulating Hinkley.

    Background

    • Hinkley Point B power station began generating power in 1976 using two Advanced Gas Cooled Reactors (AGR). During its lifetime it provided enough electricity to meet the need of every home in the UK for almost 3 years.
    • One of the reactors (Reactor 4) was declared Fuel Free in September 2024 and it is anticipated that the remaining reactor (Reactor 3) will be declared fuel free by the end of 2025.
    • Now the reactors are no longer operational and following defueling, certain radioisotopes are no longer produced. To reflect the current activities, EDF has applied to remove some radionuclide limits in its environmental permit.
    • The proposed changes to the environmental permit would more accurately reflect the reducing radiological hazard and risks from Hinkley Point B and align with the current lifecycle stage.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Former Victim’s Commissioner and Defence KC appointed to provide strong leadership to miscarriage of justice investigator

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Former Victim’s Commissioner and Defence KC appointed to provide strong leadership to miscarriage of justice investigator

    Dame Vera Baird DBE KC has been appointed as interim chair of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) to provide hands on governance and strong leadership.

    • Dame Vera Baird DBE KC appointed as interim chair of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC)
    • Urgent review ordered to restore public confidence in the organisation
    • Justice for the wrongfully convicted vital to Government’s Plan for Change

    Dame Vera Baird DBE KC has today (3 June) been appointed as the interim Chair of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC).

    Her appointment marks the Lord Chancellors determination to ensure the CCRC is effectively delivering its vital function investigating potential miscarriages of justice and bringing justice to those who have been wrongly convicted.

    The Chair of the CCRC is responsible for leading the board, setting the vision and core purpose of the organisation,  maintaining public trust and confidence by being a visible, effective advocate and ambassador, and supporting their leadership. Dame Vera will provide hands on governance and strong leadership in the role.

    The Lord Chancellor has also tasked Dame Vera with undertaking an urgent review into the running of the CCRC, ensuring lessons have been learned from the handling of previous cases and that the public can have confidence in the organisation again.

    Lord Chancellor, Shabana Mahmood, said:

    Miscarriages of justice have a devastating and life-long impact.

    The organisation tasked with uncovering them must earn back the public’s trust in the justice system, vital to our Plan for Change.

    Dame Vera will bring strong leadership to the Criminal Cases Review Commission – I want her review to restore its role uncovering and rectifying historical injustices.

    Dame Vera has been tasked with reviewing the governance and leadership within the CCRC, and its capability in investigating potential miscarriages of justice. The impact of the organisation’s internal culture will be evaluated, as well as the value for money it delivers for the taxpayer.

    Dame Vera, as a former defender and Victims Commissioner, understands the criminal justice system from all sides and is a long-standing advocate for fairness and justice.

    Dame Vera Baird said:

    When the justice system makes mistakes, as all human institutions do, from time to time,  the role of the CCRC is crucial in uncovering them – providing the only lifeline available for the wrongfully convicted.

    It is vital the public can have confidence in an organisation whose constitutional importance is so central to a fair and just system.

    I look forward to working alongside the many hardworking and dedicated members of staff to restore that confidence, ensuring recommendations stemming from multiple reviews over the last decade are being effectively implemented, as well as identifying further areas for improvement.

    Dame Vera’s term will run from June 2025 to December 2026 ahead of a permanent appointment being made. In addition to delivering the review, the interim Chair is responsible for setting the direction of the CCRC and communicating progress with the Government – particularly in light of Chris Henley KC’s 2024 report which made major recommendations following the handling of Andrew Malkinson’s case.

    The review will include but not be limited to:

    • Effectiveness: The extent to which the organisation is operating effectively to deliver the CCRC’s statutory responsibilities, including the understanding and application of the ‘real possibility’ test, and the CCRC’s processes for oversight and quality control of casework.

    • Performance: To evaluate the CCRC’s performance, assess whether the appropriate Key Performance Indicators and targets are in place, and ensure effective strategies and action plans are in place and implemented to improve performance. Additionally, an assessment of the robustness of the management information provided by the CCRC to its departmental sponsor, ensuring it enables effective oversight and assurance on behalf of the Principal Accounting Officer and Ministers.
    • Governance: To evaluate the effectiveness of the organisation’s governance, including its structure and operational efficiency, and the effectiveness of the structural relationship between the Commissioners, the Body Corporate, the Board, and the Executive.
    • Culture: To review the culture of the organisation, in particular in its approach to and interactions with applicants, potential applicants and their representatives.
    • Capability: An evaluation of the senior leadership team should also be conducted to identify areas where further support or strengthening is needed, in order restore public confidence.
    • Funding: To assess whether the CCRC provides value for money within its current funding levels and ensure that the funds are used effectively to achieve high-quality outcomes. To rigorously evaluate whether the CCRC delivers value for money within its existing funding envelope, ensuring that it is utilised efficiently to achieve high-quality outcomes. This assessment will focus on maximising current resources.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Haze Over North America

    Source: NASA

    More than 180 wildland fires burned across Canada on June 1, 2025, continuing what has been an active fire year so far. Some of the fires produced plumes so thick and widespread they were easily visible from a vantage point in space well beyond that of the Moon.
    NASA’s EPIC (Earth Polychromatic Imaging Camera) on NOAA’s DSCOVR satellite acquired this image on May 31, 2025. The instrument is positioned 1.5 million kilometers (1 million miles) from Earth’s surface, which is about four times farther than the orbit of the Moon. For comparison, most polar orbiting satellites that observe Earth orbit at an altitude of less than 1,000 kilometers. From its distant position, EPIC captures a color image of the entire sunlit side of Earth at least once every two hours.
    The EPIC wide view shows smoke from fires burning primarily in the Canadian provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba. The plumes extend to the north-northeast across Nunavut toward the coast of Greenland and southward across the United States. Another patch of smoke is visible over the Atlantic Ocean near Europe. Note that the hazy air west of Africa is not smoke but dust that has blown westward from the Sahara Desert.
    The blazes forced tens of thousands of people across three provinces to evacuate. Around 5,000 evacuated from Flin Flon as a major blaze crossed from Saskatchewan into Manitoba, according to news reports. This fire, among many others, led officials to declare a state of emergency in Saskatchewan and Manitoba in late May.

    Smoke from the fires burning in Canada has raised health concerns as airborne particles degraded air quality locally and in several U.S. states. In Michigan, officials issued an air quality advisory on May 30, noting that the air could become unhealthy for sensitive groups. On June 2, Minnesota issued an air quality alert, as particle pollution in the state’s northwest neared hazardous levels for all people.
    The jet stream pulled smoke even farther south. The detailed image above, acquired May 31 with the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the NOAA-21 satellite, shows smoke reaching northern Florida. Smoke-affected states farther from the fires saw mostly good to moderate air quality. Still, smoke high in the air can tint skies orange and contribute to some striking sunsets.
    Since the start of the year, 1,586 fires have burned more than 1 million hectares across Canada, according to a report issued June 1 by the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Center. In 2024, the country saw 1,343 fires burn less than half a million hectares by the same date. Canada’s wildfire season has historically run from late April to August, but fires can happen any time of the year.
    NASA Earth Observatory images by Wanmei Liang, using DSCOVR EPIC and VIIRS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE, GIBS/Worldview, and the Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS). Text by Kathryn Hansen.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Inspecting Homes Affected by March Storms

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    strong>AUSTIN – After Texas residents apply for FEMA assistance, a home inspection may be necessary to verify damage from the March 26-28 severe storms and flooding.
    Homeowners and renters in Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy counties can apply for FEMA assistance for losses not covered by insurance for the March storms.
    Within 10 days after applying, a FEMA inspector may contact applicants to schedule an appointment. The call or text to schedule an inspection will probably come from an out-of-state phone number.
    Information gathered during the inspection is one of several criteria used by FEMA to determine if applicants are approved for federal assistance. If survivors have already made repairs or replaced damaged items, although not required, it may be helpful to have pictures of the damage and receipts for repair or replacement. Applicants should also have their insurance policy available.
    The housing inspector will consider:

    The structural soundness of the home, both inside and outside.
    Whether the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer/septic systems are all in working order.
    Whether the home is safe to live in and can be entered and exited safely.

    All FEMA representatives carry photo identification. Inspectors will never ask for or accept money. Their service is free. 
    A home inspection may take up to 45 minutes to complete. After the inspection, applicants should allow seven to 10 days for processing. For questions about the status of an application, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
    For more information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4871. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – Incidents on Hawai’i Island Shed Light on Hawaiian Hawk Abuse, June 2, 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release – Incidents on Hawai’i Island Shed Light on Hawaiian Hawk Abuse, June 2, 2025

    Posted on Jun 2, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    KA ‘OIHANA KUMUWAIWAI ‘ĀINA

     

    DAWN N.S. CHANG

    CHAIRPERSON

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

     

     

    INCIDENTS ON HAWAIʻI ISLAND SHED LIGHT ON HAWAIIAN HAWK ABUSE

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    June 2, 2025

    HILO, Hawaiʻi – Threats to Hawaiʻi’s endangered wildlife usually come in the form of habitat loss and degradation, disease, or predators. Recent incidents on Hawai‘i Island involving the ‘io, or Hawaiian hawk, shed light on another hazard:  human interactions. Last month, a Mountain View community member found an emaciated ‘io on her property. It was missing the upper portion of its beak. This was reported to the Hawai‘i Wildlife Center (HWC) which contacted the DLNR Divisions of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) and Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW).

    Raymond McGuire, a wildlife biologist with DOFAW, collected the ‘io and transferred it to the HWC. Examination of the hawk determined the injury wasn’t natural, but human caused. No longer able to feed itself, the bird had to be euthanized.

    HWC received a tip the previous week about a posting on Craigslist that offered a free hawk in Mountain View. Posted photos of that bird showed similar feather, eye and cere (lump above the beak) color to the hawk they admitted, though it still had its full beak. The post has since been deleted. It hasn’t been determined if the two incidents are related.

    “I just want to make people aware that these types of abuses are happening in our backyards and if community members see something, please say something,” said McGuire.

    In Hawaiʻi, endangered wildlife like the ‘io carry state protections. Hawai‘i Revised Statutes prohibit the “taking” of endangered or threatened species, which includes harming, killing, or otherwise disrupting them.

    McGuire added: “We’ve received several reports in recent years of shootings and other harmful misconduct aimed at Hawaiian hawks. We can all contribute to the protection of our native ʻio and stop the trend of abuse if we keep our eyes open and speak up.”

    To report suspected illegal activity, call the DLNR enforcement hotline at 808-643-3567 or use the DLNRTip app. For information on raptor rehabilitation and rescue, reach out to the HWC at 808-884-5000.

    # # # 

     

    RESOURCES 

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR) 

     

    Photographs – Hawaiian Hawk Incidents (May 2025):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/nvpbm391lja4o8mpfkwlr/ABKckPyvmYT_u9QPkaEyqN4?rlkey=4q7wnd1vxoxgdflfbi1zdntvx&st=712cw4mm&dl=0

     

    Hawai‘i Island DOFAW offices:

    Hilo office: 808-974-4221

    Kamuela office: 808-887-6063

     

    Hawai‘i Wildlife Center website: https://www.hawaiiwildlifecenter.org/

     

     

    Media Contact: 

    Ryan Aguilar

    Communications Specialist

    Department of Land and Natural Resources, State of Hawai‘i

    Phone: 808-587-0396

    Email: [email protected]

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Green Welcomes New State Fire Marshal

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    Governor Green Welcomes New State Fire Marshal

    Posted on Jun 2, 2025 in Featured, 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 WELCOMES NEW STATE FIRE MARSHAL
    The Position was Abolished Nearly 46 Years Ago

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    June 2, 2025

    HONOLULU — Governor Josh Green, M.D., today announced the appointment of Dori Booth as Hawai‘i’s new State Fire Marshal, reviving a critical public safety position that has been vacant for nearly 46 years. The original Office of the State Fire Marshal was abolished by Act 241 of the 1978 Session Laws of Hawaiʻi, with its responsibilities devolved to the counties as of July 1, 1979.

    This appointment marks a historic return to a centralized approach to statewide fire protection — one that was strongly recommended by independent wildfire investigation reports following the devastating 2023 Maui wildfires.

    “Dori Booth steps into this role at a moment of incredible urgency — and with a mission that’s nothing short of transformative,” said Governor Green. “We are rebuilding an entire fire safety infrastructure at the state level, and Dori is at the center of it. She’ll need to navigate the complex division of responsibilities between the counties and the state, set up a new operational structure, and immediately implement top-priority reforms to protect our communities. It may sound like bureaucracy — but the goal is simple: save lives, protect property and keep Hawai‘i safe.”

    Fire Marshal Booth has familiarized herself with the wildfires investigation reports by the Fire Safety Research Institute and will be leading the charge on executing the 10 priorities identified in the Phase II report.

    “It’s an honor to step into this role at such a critical time for Hawaiʻi,” Booth said. “The lessons from the Maui wildfires are still fresh, and our responsibility is clear: We must do everything in our power to prevent future tragedies. That means stronger coordination, smarter planning, and a relentless focus on community safety. And when wildfires or other disasters cannot be prevented, we must be resilient — to protect Hawaiʻi’s most precious resources: its people, history, culture and places of deep significance. I’m committed to working with community members, county, state and federal partners — as well as our first responders — to build a fire protection system that reflects the strength and resilience of Hawaiʻi’s people.”

    Booth brings more than two decades of leadership in fire safety and public service. Prior to her appointment, she served as Division Chief of Community Risk Reduction for the Sedona Fire District, and previously rose to Deputy Fire Marshal with the Phoenix Fire Department. In these roles, she led major fire prevention programs, high-risk inspections, hazardous materials response, and public safety planning for large venues and airports. A U.S. Army veteran, Booth served in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan, where she specialized in civil-military operations and infrastructure stability. Her service earned her the Bronze Star Medal and Combat Action Badge.

    She holds a Master’s degree in Public Safety Leadership Administration and a Bachelor’s in Sustainable Tourism Development and Management, both from Arizona State University. Booth also serves in a national leadership role with the International Code Council, chairing the Fire Sprinkler Exam Development Committee.

    “The Fire Marshal will have a very important role in protecting our communities,” said Department of Law Enforcement Director Mike Lambert. “The Department of Law Enforcement looks forward to helping Dori be successful and we are honored that we have been entrusted to work with her side by side to keep Hawai‘i among the safest states in the nation.”

    The fire marshal position was initially recreated by the 2024 Legislature in order to address the post-Maui wildfires third-party investigation reports initiated by the Department of the Attorney General, recommending a prioritized list of action items of changes to be made to improve Hawai‘i’s response to wildfires for the state and all counties. The 2024 legislation was amended in the most recent session to, among other changes, place the office of the State Fire Marshal under the Department of Law Enforcement.

    A headshot of Dori Booth can be found here.
    Additional photos, courtesy the Office of the Governor, can be found here.

    # # #


    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eurojust supports successful operation against human traffickers

    Source: Eurojust

    The criminal group targeted individuals from disadvantaged communities in Romania. The perpetrators approached their victims on social media, luring them with false romantic promises or offers for them to perform sex work abroad under favourable conditions. Once the victims accepted these offers, they were taken abroad to provide sexual services on escort websites and in rented flats. They were kept under constant surveillance by the criminal group and subjected to appalling conditions, working long hours in degrading and unsafe circumstances. The victims were expected to work continuously, regardless of their mental or physical state. Even visibly pregnant women were forced to work without rest.

    Investigations into the group uncovered a large-scale network that had been operating across Europe for over seven years. In 2022, its members moved to Switzerland to continue their activities in several Swiss German-speaking cities, particularly Zurich. The suspected leader of the group started to recruit new members, setting up his own criminal school, where he taught techniques enslaving and exploiting victims. In some cases, victims were traded between members in exchange for money or used as stakes in gambling.

    A joint action day to dismantle the criminal group took place on 3 June. Authorities arrested 13 suspects in Romania and four in Switzerland. The alleged victims were brought to safety and given support from a counselling service specialising in human trafficking. In addition to targeting the members in Switzerland, the investigations also focused on individuals in Romania who provided logistical support and laundered the proceeds from the criminal activities.

    The successful operation was made possible through close cooperation between Romanian and Swiss authorities under the coordination of Eurojust and Europol. A joint investigation team, set up and funded by Eurojust, ensured the authorities could work together quickly and efficiently. Europol supported the national authorities throughout the investigation by facilitating the exchange of critical intelligence and providing expert analytical support, including the preparation of link charts on the organised crime group. On the action day, Europol provided remote assistance to investigators by cross-checking operational data in real time.

    The following authorities carried out the operation:

    • Romania: Prosecutor’s Office attached to the High Court of Cassation and Justice – Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism, Bacau Territorial Service; Police Brigade for Combating Organised Crime Iași, Police Service for Combating Organised Crime Neamț; Neamț and Bacău County Gendarmerie Inspectorates; Mobile Gendarmerie Unit Bacău.
    • Switzerland: Public Prosecutor’s Office of the canton of Zurich; Zurich City Police

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Moving heavy freight – new NPCC guidance published

    Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

    Abnormal loads guidance developed in collaboration with industry

    The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), in collaboration with the Abnormal Loads Group (ALG), has today released new national guidance to support police forces in the management of abnormal load movements across the UK. The new guidance marks a significant step forward in improving coordination, transparency, and efficiency for both law enforcement and the transport industry.

    This landmark document reflects extensive consultation with the transport and logistics sectors and is designed to ensure a safer and more predictable operating environment for the movement of abnormal loads, while also supporting the operational requirements of police forces.

    Key highlights of the new NPCC guidance include:

    • 30-Day Window Acceptance
    • Clarification on Embargoes
    • Targeted Embargo Approach
    • Police Escorts and Legal Authority
    Chief Superintendent Marc Clothier is part of the NPCC portfolio for Roads Policing. He said:

    “This new guidance is a testament to what can be achieved through close collaboration between law enforcement and industry. I’d like to thank all of our partners for their support and engagement which has enabled us to develop a practical document benefitting everyone. 

    “It brings greater clarity to both police forces and operators, reducing unnecessary administrative burdens and focusing resources where they are truly needed.”

    Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, said:

    “We’re delighted that the NPCC has listened and understand that this guidance is an economic enabler and we look forward to continuing to work with them collaboratively going forward.

    “We recognise that police have an incredibly challenging job to do and abnormal loads movements are a specialism. It’s only right that officers across all forces have the most up-to-date guidance that will help them support operators moving abnormal loads.

    “This will also give infrastructure project leaders and hauliers the certainty that they will have a consistent service from officers when they require their support.”

    The NPCC has agreed that the guidance will be subject of ongoing review and amendment, so it remains fit for purpose.

    A formal review will take place twelve months after publication. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Willis Lease Finance Corporation Announces Offering of $596 Million in Fixed Rate Notes

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COCONUT CREEK, Fla., June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Willis Lease Finance Corporation (NASDAQ: WLFC) (“WLFC” or the “Company”), a leading lessor of commercial jet engines, announced today that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Willis Engine Structured Trust VIII (“WEST”), proposes to offer $524 million in aggregate principal amount of Series A Fixed Rate Notes (the “Initial Series A Notes”) and $72 million in aggregate principal amount of Series B Fixed Rate Notes (the “Initial Series B Notes” and, together with the Initial Series A Notes, the “Initial Notes”). The Notes will be secured by, among other things, WEST’s direct and indirect interests in a portfolio of 62 aircraft engines and two airframes, which WEST will acquire from WLFC or its other subsidiaries pursuant to an asset purchase agreement.

    The net proceeds of the Notes will be primarily applied to (i) pay certain fees and expenses related to the offering of the Notes, (ii) deposit initial amounts in reserve accounts for security deposits, maintenance expenses and other expenses and (iii) pay WLFC periodically over a 270-day delivery period the consideration for the aircraft engines and the airframes acquired by WEST from WLFC in connection with the financing. WLFC and its subsidiaries will apply any net proceeds it receives to repay debt collateral by the assets and for general corporate purposes.

    The Notes being offered by WEST have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or any other securities laws of any jurisdiction, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the Securities Act) absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements. The Notes are being offered only to persons reasonably believed to be “qualified institutional buyers” as defined in, and in reliance on, Rule 144A under the Securities Act and outside the United States to non-U.S. persons in accordance with Regulation S under the Securities Act.

    This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, the Notes in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the Securities Act or the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. This news release is being issued pursuant to and in accordance with Rule 135c under the Securities Act.

    Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this press release contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Do not unduly rely on forward-looking statements, which give only expectations about the future and are not guarantees. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update them to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which the forward-looking statement is based, except as required by law. Our actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: the effects on the airline industry and the global economy of events such as war, terrorist activity and global pandemics; changes in oil prices, rising inflation and other disruptions to the world markets; trends in the airline industry and our ability to capitalize on those trends, including growth rates of markets and other economic factors; risks associated with owning and leasing jet engines and aircraft; our ability to successfully negotiate equipment purchases, sales and leases, to collect outstanding amounts due and to control costs and expenses; changes in interest rates and availability of capital, both to us and our customers; our ability to continue to meet changing customer demands; regulatory changes affecting airline operations, aircraft maintenance, accounting standards and taxes; the market value of engines and other assets in our portfolio; and risks detailed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and other continuing and current reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. It is advisable, however, to consult any further disclosures the Company makes on related subjects in such filings.

    CONTACT: Scott B. Flaherty
      Executive Vice President &
    Chief Financial Officer
      sflaherty@willislease.com
      561.413.0112

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sanborn Expands Airborne Geophysics Fleet with Second Fixed-Wing Aircraft for Large-Scale Geophysical Surveys

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Sanborn Map Company, Inc. (Sanborn), a leading provider of remote sensing and geophysical survey solutions, has expanded its airborne capabilities with the addition of a second fixed-wing aircraft equipped specifically for large-scale geophysical data collection. This expansion enhances Sanborn’s capacity to deliver efficient, high-resolution subsurface insights across expansive project areas.

    The new aircraft is outfitted with advanced geophysical instrumentation, provided by Sanborn Geophysics ULC. It includes three high sensitivity magnetometers and a full spectrum radiometric system. This setup enables the detection of subtle magnetic and radiometric anomalies critical for geological mapping, mineral exploration, and environmental assessment.

    “The growing demand for large scale geophysical surveys justified more geophysics aircraft in our fleet,” said John Copple, CEO of Sanborn. “This investment enhances responsiveness and improves scheduling efficiency for our customers.”

    With this investment, Sanborn continues to build on its legacy of innovation in remote sensing and geophysical services — offering a scalable, aircraft-based solution for organizations seeking actionable data across vast and varied landscapes.

    For more information about Sanborn’s airborne geophysics capabilities, visit www.sanborn.com/sanborn-geophysics or contact info@sanborn.com.

    Company Information

    The Sanborn Map Company, Inc. (Sanborn) is a leading geospatial solutions provider with over 150 years of experience supporting public and private sector clients. Sanborn specializes in high-resolution nadir and oblique imagery, LiDAR, geophysics, and geospatial data and analytics. The company also provides scalable staff augmentation for transportation, utilities, infrastructure, and emergency management. Sanborn’s airborne platforms enable efficient, wide-area data collection. With a focus on innovation, quality, and security, Sanborn delivers precise, actionable intelligence that supports resilient, data-driven decisions across a wide range of industries and applications.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/75060327-0002-4724-98aa-e290217f55b9

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Bathinda Central Co-operative Bank Ltd., Bathinda, Punjab

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed, by an order dated May 30, 2025, a monetary penalty of ₹3 lakh (Rupees Three Lakh only) on The Bathinda Central Co-operative Bank Ltd., Bathinda, Punjab (the bank) for contravention of provisions of Section 26A read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 (BR Act). This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2023 and March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with statutory provisions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said provisions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made by it during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had failed to transfer eligible unclaimed amounts to the Depositor Education and Awareness Fund within the prescribed time.

    This action is based on deficiencies in statutory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/463

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mining in Motion: Ghana Unveils 5-Pillar Strategy to Transform the Mining Industry

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    ACCRA, Ghana, June 3, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, Ghana’s Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, outlined a five-pillar strategy for the country’s mining industry at the Mining in Motion 2025 summit. The strategy is aimed at reforming the sector while empowering artisanal and small-scale mining (ASGM) initiatives.

    In a presentation during the opening of the summit, Minister Buah underscored how the strategy is designed to address illegal mining, which has significantly impacted the environment. Illegal mining occupies over 16% of the nation’s forests, degrading more than 5,500 hectares. As such, the strategy seeks to address this issue by enhancing ASGM developments. ASGM operations have grown to account for 52.1% of Ghana’s total gold exports in 2025, and the strategy aims to further optimize the industry’s expansion.

    “Of the $4 billion in goods shipped from Ghana in Q1, 2025, 52.1% is from artisanal and small-scale miners – hence the need to ensure that mining is done in a sustainable manner,” stated Minister Buah.

    The first pillar of the strategy focuses on reforming the licensing regime. According to Minister Buah, the Ministry is currently overhauling the existing Minerals and Mining Act to attract new investments and bring in fresh ASGM players. This includes reviewing and restructuring licenses to ensure they align with Ghana’s national development agenda.

    “The strategy came into implementation four months ago and we want to ensure we do mining right,” stated Minister Buah.

    The second pillar centers on enhancing law enforcement. The Ministry is collaborating with various government agencies to intensify the arrest and prosecution of those engaged in illegal mining. This includes the creation of an independent Anti-Illegal Mining Military Task Force and the reorganization of security operations at both district and community levels.

    Environmental restoration is also a key priority. Under the third pillar, the Ministry has reclaimed eight out of nine forest reserves previously designated as red zones for illegal mining within just four months. Reforestation programs are now underway to restore these degraded areas and ensure long-term environmental sustainability.

    The fourth pillar emphasizes stakeholder engagement and public education. The Ministry is working closely with traditional authorities, lawmakers, civil society organizations and the general public to promote sustainable practices and encourage collective responsibility in preserving Ghana’s natural resources.

    “Lack of jobs and skills has been the main cause of illegal mining and we are dealing with this directly by diversifying employment. We want to create over 150,000 new jobs,” stated Minister Buah.

    The fifth pillar aims to provide alternative livelihoods and job opportunities, especially for youth and individuals previously involved in illegal mining. Through programs such as the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Program for Illegal Miners; the 1 Million Coders Program; and initiatives by the Youth Employment Agency, the government is offering skills training and employment placement. These efforts are designed to reduce reliance on illegal mining and diversify economic opportunities across the country.

    The pillars will be achieved through various strategies such as the Ghana Gold Board, the Minerals Development Fund, the Minerals Income Investment Fund, Geofencing of Excavators, the Investment in Geological Investigations of Mineralized Areas, Small-Scale Mining Cooperatives, the Blue Water Initiative, the Tree for Life Initiative and the Anti-Illegal Mining Secretariat.

    Organized by the Ashanti Green Initiative – led by Oheneba Kwaku Duah, Prince of Ghana’s Ashanti Kingdom – in collaboration with Ghana’s Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, World Bank, and the World Gold Council, with the support of Ghana’s Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the summit offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with industry leaders.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s video message at the Ninth Austrian World Summit

    Source: United Nations – English

    strong>Download the video:
    https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+21+May+25/3399096_MSG+SG+AUSTRIAN+WORLD+SUMMIT+21+MAY+25.mp4

    Excellencies, friends,

    President Van der Bellen, thank you for your leadership.

    And my thanks to Arnold Schwarzenegger. 

    It is fitting that the world’s one and only Terminator is focussing our attention on terminating pollution – continuing his history of political leadership and action.

    Unfortunately, our world looks less like an action hero movie and increasingly more like a horror show.

    We face a triple-whammy of woe:

    Pollution clogging rivers, contaminating land, and poisoning our ocean;

    Biodiversity destroyed at record pace; 

    And record levels of greenhouse gases catastrophically disrupting our climate. 

    We salute the real-life heroes on the front-lines when these crises strike:

    The firefighters taking-on infernos…

    The rescuers saving lives as floods sweep communities…

    And the United Nations staff providing food, shelter, and care when crops fail, hurricanes hit, or people are forced from their homes.

    No country – whether rich or poor – can escape these crises.

    And no country can solve them alone. 

    But together, we can reap the rewards of action – from cheap, secure power, to better health.

    The science is on our side. The economics are behind us.

    Almost everywhere, solar and wind are the cheapest source of new electricity.

    The world now invests almost twice as much in clean energy as it does in fossil fuels.

    An energy revolution is underway across the globe. 

    We must unite for action to accelerate it, and drive down global emissions:

    With new national climate plans from countries this year and new transition plans from business.

    These must align with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius – to avoid the worst of climate change.

    We must unite in action to drive finance to developing countries so they can make the leap to renewables, adapt to our changing climate, and respond to disasters.

    And we must unite in action to end biodiversity loss and pollution.

    Particularly, countries must agree a new global treaty this year to end plastic pollution. 

    Friends,

    United in action we can terminate pollution and protect people and planet.

    Let’s come together and make that a reality.

    Thank you.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Dame Vera Baird DBE KC appointed as Interim Chair of the CCRC

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Dame Vera Baird DBE KC appointed as Interim Chair of the CCRC

    Dame Vera Baird DBE KC has been appointed as the Interim Chair of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC).

    His Majesty the King, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, has approved the appointment of Dame Vera Baird DBE KC as the Interim Chair of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC). The appointment will commence on 9 June 2025 and will end on 8 December 2026. The CCRC Chair role has been vacant since Helen Pitcher’s resignation on 14 January 2025.

    The Lord Chancellor has requested that Dame Vera carry out a thorough review of the operation of the CCRC, to increase public confidence in the organisation and the important work it undertakes investigating potential miscarriages of justice.

    In order to bring stability to the organisation at this crucial time it was important to ensure that the post holder was an exceptional individual with sound knowledge and experience of examining the criminal justice system and a strong track record of leadership.

    The CCRC

    The CCRC was established by the Criminal Appeal Act 1995 and commenced operation in 1997. The CCRC considers – on application – cases in England, Wales and Northern Ireland where a miscarriage of justice is alleged or suspected. The CCRC decides if there is any new evidence or new argument which raises a real possibility that an appeal court would quash a conviction or reduce a sentence. 

    The appointment of the CCRC Chair is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments and this appointment complies with the Cabinet Office Governance Code on Public Appointments. 

    Appointments of CCRC Commissioners are made by His Majesty the King on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, who receives advice from the Lord Chancellor. 

    Biography

    Dame Vera Baird DBE KC’s biography is as follows:

    • Member of the Women’s Justice Board
    • Visiting Professor in Practice at the Mannheim Centre, London School of Economics
    • Honorary Fellow of St Hilda’s College Oxford
    • Hon Professor of Law at Exeter and Newcastle Universities
    • Hon Doctorates at Northumbria and Loughborough Universities
    • Former Victims Commissioner for England and Wales (2019-22)
    • DBE for Services to Women and Equalities 2017
    • Police and Crime Commissioner for Northumbria (2012-19)
    • Chair of Association of Police and Crime Commissioners 2016
    • Association of PCCs’ National lead for Supporting Victims (2012-19)
    • Solicitor General for England and Wales (2007-2010)
    • Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Justice (2006-7)
    • Member of Parliament for Redcar 2001-2010
    • Former Practising Criminal Barrister and QC
    • Author of many articles, chapters & reports, most recently The Baird Review into Greater Manchester Police.
    • Patron of Respect, Operation Encompass and Board Member of Revolving Doors

    Dame Vera Baird DBE KC has declared the following political activity on behalf of the Labour Party: public speaking, Chair of the Women’s Branch Horney and Friern Barnet Constituency (HFBC), member of the HFBC Fabian Society, member of the Labour Women’s Network and campaigning in elections.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –