NewzIntel.com

Category: Middle East

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mike Levin’s Statement on Israel’s Preemptive Strikes on Iranian Nuclear and Military Targets

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

    June 13, 2025

    Washington, D.C.—Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) released the following statement on Israel’s strikes in Iran:

    “I am closely monitoring the unfolding events in the Middle East after Israel launched preemptive, unilateral strikes on Iranian nuclear and military targets.

    “The Iranian regime, which sponsors terrorism and represses its own people, must never obtain a nuclear weapon. In recent days, international nuclear regulators declared Iran in violation of its nonproliferation obligations after finding the country dangerously close to making several nuclear weapons.

    “Iran’s decades-long pursuit of a nuclear weapon poses a grave threat to the United States and our allies. No nation can be expected to stand by while another openly threatens its existence and races to gain the capabilities to carry it out. The Iranian regime must renounce its nuclear enrichment and weaponization program once and for all.

    “I urge the Trump Administration to take every step to protect U.S. personnel and diplomatic facilities in the region, and to make clear that any attack on American interests will not be tolerated. I support Israel’s right to defend itself from imminent threats and believe the United States should provide appropriate diplomatic and material support to help prevent further escalation.

    “I will continue supporting measures that prevent military miscalculation, save lives, and chart a path forward that brings us closer to ending Iran’s nuclear threat in order to create a more secure and peaceful world.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met sets out policing plans ahead of protests this weekend

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    The Met is preparing for another busy weekend in the capital with a protest in Tower Hamlets and Westminster.

    On Saturday 14 June, a protest against proposals for a new Chinese embassy will take place between 14:00hrs until 17:00hrs at Royal Mint Court, north of Tower Bridge. The Met has set out conditions, which are detailed below.

    A protest organised by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC), Stop the War and other groups is also due to take place on Saturday at 14:00hrs in Parliament Square. There are currently no conditions in place, however there will be a police presence to ensure the protest takes place safely and any incidents can be dealt with. Any conditions will be updated on this page.

    Currently we have not been informed of any planned counter protests, but the Met will be prepared and have sufficient resources in place.

    Details on conditions are below:

    Section 12 – Public Order Act

    Any person taking part in the procession element of the protest against the proposed Chinese embassy site must not deviate from the route shown on the map below.

    Having completed the procession, any person continuing to take part in the static element of the protest must remain in the area detailed below.

    Section 14 – Public Order Act

    Any person taking part in the static assembly element of the protest against the proposed Chinese embassy site must remain within the area shaded red on the map below.

    The assembly must conclude by 17:00hrs.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Fitzgerald Statement on Israel’s Strike Against Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05) issued the following statement in response to Israel’s strike against Iran.

    “I strongly support Israel’s right to defend itself in the face of escalating threats from Iran, which is the world’s foremost state sponsor of terrorism. 

    “President Trump and Secretary Rubio have made clear that the United States was not involved in the planning or execution of these attacks. However, our commitment to Israel’s security remains firm.

    “I’ve consistently supported efforts to prevent a nuclear Iran, and I stand with President Trump in his efforts to restore stability in the region.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov of Azerbaijan – Deputy Special Coordinator and Resident Coordinator, Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO)

    Source: United Nations MIL-OSI 2

    nited Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced today the appointment of Ramiz Alakbarov of Azerbaijan as his new Deputy Special Coordinator and Resident Coordinator, Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO).  Dr. Alakbarov will also serve as Humanitarian Coordinator.  He succeeds Muhannad Hadi of Jordan, to whom the Secretary-General is grateful for his dedication and service.  The Secretary-General also thanks Sarah Poole of the United States, who has been providing steadfast support in an ad interim capacity. 

    Dr. Alakbarov brings more than 30 years of extensive international experience in executive leadership, strategic planning and policy-making, development programming and management, and humanitarian response.  He has been serving as the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ethiopia since 2023.  Prior to this, he held the position of Deputy Special Representative for Afghanistan with the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), where he was also the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, from 2021 to 2023.  In Afghanistan, he also served as UN Resident Coordinator ad interim in 2020.

    Dr. Alakbarov has served in several positions within the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), including as Deputy Executive Director for Management and United Nations Reforms (ad interim) and Director of the Policy and Strategy Division in New York, Country Representative in Haiti, Deputy Regional Director of the Regional Office for Arab States in Cairo and Head of the Office in South Sudan.  Prior to these positions, he served in various roles at UNFPA supporting country programmes in Arab States, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia.  His roles included Programme Officer covering Sudan, Somalia, and Iraq and Humanitarian Response Officer for Operations, in Afghanistan, Palestine and the Great Lakes Region.  From 1992 to 1995, he was an Assistant Professor at Azerbaijan Medical University and a practicing physician.

    Dr. Alakbarov holds M.D. and Ph.D. degrees in internal medicine from Azerbaijan Medical University and a Master of Arts in international relations from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy in Boston, Massachusetts, United States.  He is fluent in Azerbaijani, English, French, Russian and Turkish.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel: 13 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    PM call with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel: 13 June 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu this afternoon.

    The Prime Minister spoke to Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, this afternoon following last night’s events. 

    The Prime Minister was clear that Israel has a right to self-defence and set out the UK’s grave concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme.

    He reiterated the need for de-escalation and a diplomatic resolution, in the interests of stability in the region.

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Repeal Syria Caesar Civilian Protection Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    Washington, DC – Representatives Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Joe Wilson (R-SC), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Marlin Stutzman (R-IN), Lou Correa (D-CA), and Jack Bergman (R-MI) introduced bipartisan legislation repealing the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2019. Representative Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) joined as an Original Cosponsor, as well. 

    The Caesar Act which imposed sanctions on Syria in response to the Assad regime’s war crimes was waived by Secretary of State Marco Rubio last month for 180 days. However, unless Congress permanently repeals the law it will require waivers every 180 days until the law expires in December 2029, thereby creating economic uncertainty which will harm efforts to reduce the massive humanitarian and economic hardship in Syria which has been ravaged by years of war. 

    On May 21, Secretary of State Marco Rubio testified before the House Foreign Affairs Committee. In response to a question regarding Syria sanctions from Rep. Wilson, Sec. Rubio said, “The sanctions in Syria are largely based on a statute, the Caesar Act, and so that allows the President to do rolling waivers, I believe 6 months at a time. So the goal is ultimately to make enough progress, so that Congress will permanently repeal those.”

    Ambassador Thomas Barrack, who is U.S. ambassador to Türkiye, was named as Syria’s U.S. envoy on May 23; he noted Syria had been under U.S. sanctions since 1979. Some of the toughest were implemented in 2020 under the Caesar Act, which Barrack said must be repealed by Congress within a 180-day window. “I promise you the one person who has less patience with these sanctions than all of you is President Trump,” Amb. Barrack said.

    “For far too long, the Syrian people suffered under the brutal dictatorship of the Assad regime. With the ousting of this regime, it is critical that we give the new government the opportunity to deliver for the Syrian people,” said Rep. Jayapal. “The repeal of these broad sanctions will give foreign partners the certainty they need to invest in the Syrian economy and give their new government a chance to succeed.”

    “The Assad regime sanctioned by the Caesar Act no longer exists, and it is time to repeal the law to provide long-term certainty to those who would like to invest in the reconstruction and rebuilding of Syria,” said Rep. Wilson.     

    “With the fall of the Assad regime, the Syrian people have renewed hope for a better future,” said Rep. Panetta. “By repealing the Caesar Act, the United States can better support the Syrian people and their economy during this critical transitional period. Syria is at a turning point, and as geo-political adversaries try to take advantage of the turmoil, the United States must position itself as a partner for continued progress.”

    The full text of H.R. 3941 is available here. 

    Issues: Foreign Affairs & National Security

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement of Senate Intel Vice Chairman Warner on the Middle East

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – Tonight, Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Vice Chairman Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement:

    “This is a rapidly evolving situation, and it’s critical that the United States work with our allies and avoid steps that will cause further escalation across the region. For years, Iran has threatened the safety of Israel and the region and Israel has an undeniable right to defend itself and its citizens. At the moment, my foremost concern is the safety of American troops, diplomats, and personnel stationed throughout the Middle East. As Vice Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, I am carefully monitoring developments and staying in close contact with our intelligence and national security agencies.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hinson Applauds Rescissions Package to Codify $9.4 Billion in DOGE Savings on House Floor

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-01)

    — Remarks as Delivered —
     

    “Thank you, Mr. Speaker,

    “Iowans overwhelmingly rejected the Washington status quo in November, demanding an end to unelected bureaucrats misusing taxpayer resources.

    “President Trump’s rescissions package cuts $9.4 billion dollars, including: $3 million for Iraqi Sesame Street, $6 million for “Net Zero Cities” in Mexico, and $1 million for voter ID in Haiti, not here in the United States.

    “We are only scratching the surface with this package, but imagine redirecting that to veterans’ care or specialty crop programs in a state like mine.

    “This package also rescinds funds for NPR and PBS.

    “For decades, public broadcasting has not adhered to objectivity standards enshrined in law – it has pushed biased narratives and forced inappropriate content on children, like a movie celebrating the sex change of a child, and a feature on the racial origins of fat phobia…whatever that means.

    “Children should not be fed woke propaganda – certainly not on the taxpayer dime – that is coming from a former broadcaster.

    “I want to thank President Trump for exposing this waste and working to protect Americans’ hard-earned dollars.

    “I urge my colleagues to join me in passing his bill, and I yield back. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.” – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson

    Watch Rep. Hinson’s full speech here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kean Hosts Annual Service Academy Send-Off Reception for NJ-07 Students

    Source: US Representative Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07)

    Contact: Riley Pingree

    (June 13, 2025) LEBANON BOROUGH, NJ – Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) hosted his annual Service Academy Send-Off Reception on May 28, 2025, at Raritan Valley Community College to recognize 16 students from New Jersey’s 7th District. Each student received a nomination from Congressman Kean and subsequently was offered an appointment to attend a United States Service Academy as part of the Class of 2029.

    Each year, Members of Congress have the honor of nominating high school seniors for admission to the U.S Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and U.S. Air Force Academy. All applicants must meet strict qualifications and undergo a rigorous selection process, including an interview with Congressman Kean’s independent Academy Review Board.

    In addition to the send-off reception, Congressman Kean hosted an information session the same evening for high school students interested in applying for a Service Academy nomination. Representatives from all five U.S. Service Academies shared insights into their programs and the admissions processes.

    Congressman Kean’s office has opened its 2025 online application for students seeking a Service Academy nomination. The application deadline is October 17, 2025. For more information, visit his website HERE. 

    “Congratulations to the 16 outstanding students from across our district who will be joining the ranks of cadets and midshipmen at our nation’s premier Service Academies,” said Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. “These young men and women have answered the call to serve and will soon begin their journey as future leaders in our Armed Forces. It is a tremendous privilege to be a part of this process, and I wish each of them great success as they embark on this honorable path of preparing to serve our nation with courage and distinction.”

    Students Appointed to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point:

    • Turner Boyle of Somerville

    • Emma Ciocon of Bridgewater

    • Abraham Cunningham of Basking Ridge

    • Gabrielle Drucks of Budd Lake

    • John Farabee of Lebanon

    • Emma Ferraro of Westfield

    • Matthew Levanda of Branchburg

    • Kabir Srivastav of Westfield

    Students Appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy:

    • Cormac Flanagan of Phillipsburg

    • Caedyn Ricciardi of Sparta

    • Ryan Swan of Basking Ridge

    Student Appointed to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy: 

    • Sullivan Dunn of Mendham 

    Students Appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy:

    • Colin Belfield of Gillette

    • Bobby Cusimano of Whitehouse Station

    • Ryan Daly of Westfield

    • Advik Joshi of Bridgewater

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The Club World Cup 2025 shows sharing the stage is the future of global sport

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By David Cook, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, Nottingham Trent University

    Before it kicked off, the all new revamped and expanded men’s 2025 Fifa Club World Cup had already attracted controversy.

    Some think even more football matches at the end of a long season pose a risk to player welfare. Others are concerned about a lack of fan engagement.

    But aside from these issues the tournament, which features 32 clubs from around the world, provides fresh evidence of a new model emerging in global sport.

    This event, which is being staged in 12 different cities across the US, is the latest experiment in “polycentric” hosting, where multiple locations collaborate as destinations for international sporting events.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    The next men’s Fifa World Cup in 2026 will take place across the US, Canada and Mexico. Four years later, the event will be spread across different continents, starting in South America, before moving to Europe and Africa. In between, the men’s Euros of 2028 will be co-hosted by the UK and Ireland.

    The trend is not limited to football. The 2026 Winter Olympics is being shared in Italy between Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo. The Commonwealth Games are also moving towards a more pragmatic model of hosting.

    Our research, which focused on the men’s Euro 2020 tournament (delayed by COVID and held in 2021), suggests that polycentric hosting has many advantages.

    Spanning 11 European countries, Euro 2020 was conceived as a celebration of the tournament’s 60th anniversary.

    From a branding perspective, this posed significant challenges. Each city had its own visual identity, with localised fan engagement strategies.

    Without a singular geographic or cultural anchor, Uefa, the governing body of European football, had to balance the benefits of celebrating local diversity with the need for a coherent overarching narrative.

    Yet overall, the format worked. Despite the pandemic’s disruption, the tournament still reached broad audiences and activated fanbases in multiple regions.

    Instead of one city or nation shouldering the financial and logistical burden of building infrastructure, accommodating visitors, and managing security and transport, responsibilities were shared.

    A team effort

    This can significantly reduce the risk of the problem of “white elephants” where expensive stadiums or facilities fall into disuse after an event has finished.

    By using infrastructure and venues which already exist, the environmental and economic costs of hosting are minimised. It also makes hosting more feasible for countries that might not have the capacity to do it alone.

    At the same time, many of the perceived benefits of staging sports events – such as economic boosts to local economies, increases in tourism, improved transport links, and civic pride – can be shared more widely. Rather than one host reaping all the rewards, several places can potentially benefit, engaging local communities and stimulating regional development.

    Euro 2020, on the road to Wembley.
    Michael Tubi/Shutterstock

    Collaborative multi-host formats also allow for widespread sharing of knowledge and opportunities for innovation. When cities and organising committees work together, they can bring diverse perspectives, cultural insights, operational practices, and even healthy competition to the table.

    We found that the development of friendly rivalries between Euro 2020 hosts actually encouraged a competitive mindset that motivated organising committee staff to attempt to outperform counterpart cities.



    Read more:
    Trump’s travel ban casts shadow over the upcoming Fifa Club World Cup and other US-hosted sporting events

    Meanwhile Uefa enabled those different cities to develop branding strategies which reflected local character while contributing to a broader European narrative of unity through sport. One example was each city selecting a landmark bridge to tie in with the tournament’s overarching “bridging Europe” theme.

    This collaborative way of thinking also led to creative and inclusive ideas. Glasgow, for example, integrated a cultural festival into its role as a host city, featuring local artists and musicians.

    Polycentric tournaments aren’t without challenges of course. There is a risk of fragmentation, where the tournament feels like a series of disconnected mini-events rather than something cohesive.

    But overall, the environmental, economic and cultural benefits can be substantial. And what began as a celebratory one-off with Euro 2020 is fast becoming the design for future major sport events.

    By sharing the spotlight, cities and countries also share the strain and the opportunity. The age of the single host nation isn’t over, and the looming Saudi Arabia 2034 World Cup is a stark reminder that above all, money still talks. But the era of shared hosting is clearly here, and might just be what global sport and its fans need.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. The Club World Cup 2025 shows sharing the stage is the future of global sport – https://theconversation.com/the-club-world-cup-2025-shows-sharing-the-stage-is-the-future-of-global-sport-256117

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Food insecurity in Lebanon returns to near pre-conflict levels – but gains remain fragile, new report shows

    Source: World Food Programme

    21 per cent of Lebanon’s population faces acute food insecurity, projected to worsen by the summer.

    BEIRUT – Under the patronage and in the presence of Lebanese Minister of Agriculture Dr. Nizar Hani, and with the participation of WFP Representative and Country Director in Lebanon Mr. Matthew Hollingworth, Acting FAO Representative in Lebanon Ms. Veronica Quattrola and a number of experts and officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, the Lebanon: Integrated Food Security Phase Classification report for the period of April to October 2025 was launched at the Ministry’s headquarters in Beirut.

    Link to latest report

    BEIRUT – Under the patronage and in the presence of Lebanese Minister of Agriculture Dr. Nizar Hani, and with the participation of WFP Representative and Country Director in Lebanon Mr. Matthew Hollingworth, Acting FAO Representative in Lebanon Ms. Veronica Quattrola and a number of experts and officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, the Lebanon: Integrated Food Security Phase Classification report for the period of April to October 2025 was launched at the Ministry’s headquarters in Beirut.

    The report shows that one in five people in Lebanon – around 1.17 million individuals – are facing crisis or emergency levels of acute food insecurity between April and June 2025. While this figure reflects gradual recovery compared to figures from earlier this year, when 1.65 million people were affected following the conflict, gains remain fragile without sustained support.

    This gradual recovery in food security levels is attributed mainly to the ceasefire agreement, a short-term increase in food assistance, and relative recovery in some local markets. However, the country continues to grapple with major challenges including the deterioration of agricultural infrastructure, rising inflation rates, economic stagnation, and concerning funding gaps in humanitarian programmes.

    The report highlights that the recent conflict caused significant damage to agricultural assets, especially in southern Lebanon, leading to a decline in production and disruption of food sources for many households. Damaged infrastructure – estimated to cost billions of dollars – remains unrepaired, and local economies are recovering at a slow pace. The number of internally displaced persons is estimated at around 100,000 people.

    “What the numbers are telling us is that while immediate and widespread humanitarian support before and throughout the ceasefire have eased pressures, the situation remains precarious,” said Matthew Hollingworth, WFP Lebanon Representative and Country Director. “Many families are one setback away from slipping back into crisis. Predictable, sustained assistance will be crucial to ensure these improvements hold.”

    According to FAO Representative in Lebanon a.i, Veronica Quattrola: “Escalating hostilities and mass displacement have severely disrupted agrifood systems, threatening food security. Agriculture is a vital pillar for resilience and recovery, making urgent, targeted support essential to restore production, stabilize food access, and build long-term resilience in affected communities.”

    The report identifies the highest levels of food insecurity in the governorates of Baalbek-Hermel, Baabda, Bint Jbeil, Marjayoun, Nabatieh, Tyre, and Akkar. According to the data:

    • Around 591,000 Lebanese (15% of Lebanese households),
    • Approximately 515,000 Syrian refugees (37% of Syrian refugees),
    • Nearly 67,000 Palestinian refugees (30% of Palestinian refugees),

    are currently living under crisis or emergency levels of food insecurity and are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.

    IPC projections estimate that the number of affected individuals will rise to 1.24 million people – about 23% of the population analysed – between July and October 2025, due to seasonal factors, continued economic contraction (with GDP still 34% below 2019 levels), and a likely decline in humanitarian aid funding.

    During the report launch, Minister of Agriculture Dr. Nizar Hani stressed that Lebanon continues to suffer from the cumulative effects of financial, economic, and social crises since 2019, which have severely impacted living conditions and increased food insecurity. He said:

    “As part of its national responsibilities, the Ministry of Agriculture placed food security at the core of its strategy and requested to join the IPC initiative in 2022 to establish an accurate scientific basis for guiding policy.”

    He highlighted that the analysis results confirmed the urgent need for swift interventions, particularly in areas heavily affected by the hostilities, such as Akkar, Baalbek, Hermel, Bint Jbeil, and Marjayoun.

    The Minister added: “We need to strengthen national partnerships and expand coordination among relevant ministries – including Economy, Health, Environment, Social Affairs, Education, and Energy – to build an integrated national response that supports social safety nets, nutrition, education, and agriculture.” 

    He stressed that boosting sound agricultural production is a key entry point to achieving sustainable food security and noted several ministry initiatives in this regard, including the launch of a “Food Contaminant Observatory” and the reactivation of central laboratories in Kfarshima to ensure food safety and quality.

    In conclusion, Minister Hani thanked the Ministry’s partners – WFP, FAO, the American University of Beirut, the Central Administration of Statistics, and NGOs – for their efforts, stating:

    “Food security is a national responsibility that requires inclusive cooperation and continuous coordination among all stakeholders to build a more resilient society and ensure a fairer, more stable citizenship for everyone living in Lebanon.”

     

    –ENDs

     

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    About the World Food Programme (WFP)

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media

     

    About the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

    The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Our goal is to achieve food security for all and make sure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 members – 194 countries and the European Union, FAO works in over 130 countries worldwide.

    Follow us on @FAOLebanon, FAOinLebanon

     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China has spoken out against the violation of Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 13 (Xinhua) — China opposes any action that violates Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, as well as the expansion of the conflict and escalation of tensions, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said on Friday.

    The diplomat said at a regular press conference that China is closely monitoring Israel’s attack on Iran and is deeply concerned about the potential serious consequences of such actions.

    A sudden re-escalation of the situation in the region does not serve the interests of either side, he stressed. The spokesman added that China calls on relevant parties to take actions conducive to regional peace and stability and avoid further escalation of tensions.

    Lin Jian also said China is willing to play a constructive role in helping to ease the situation. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: OPINION | How GOP Governors are Leading the Charge Against Antisemitism — and for Civil Rights

    Source: US State of Arkansas

    ICYMI: OPINION | How GOP Governors are Leading the Charge Against Antisemitism — and for Civil Rights

    The New York Post published “How GOP Governors are Leading the Charge Against Antisemitism — and for Civil Rights,” an op-ed by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, and Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin on what conservative states are doing to combat hate and antisemitism:

    The heartless execution of a young couple outside Washington’s Capital Jewish Museum. The terrorist who used a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails to injure elderly pro-Israel rally-goers in Boulder, Colo. The arson attack on the home of Pennsylvania’s Jewish governor.

    These headlines, and many others in recent weeks, brought home a growing threat we governors have been tracking with great alarm: A new generation of Americans has been conditioned to hate Jews with an intense bigotry experienced by no other minority group.

    It’s time for leaders of conscience to draw a bright line, translating rhetoric into robust action to protect all members of the Jewish community from the scourge of antisemitism.

    How did we arrive at today’s disturbing reality — where our nation’s small Jewish population endures 68% of all religion-based hate crimes?

    Jews have long been a convenient scapegoat for extremists of all stripes, but today antisemitism has become an elite phenomenon, erupting with particular vehemence on college and university campuses.

    Antisemitic incidents across the United States spiked by over 600% since September 2023, a recent Combat Antisemitism Movement study found, with most of the increase coming on college campuses.

    Students are not born bigoted. Someone is teaching them to hate.

    Indeed, some teachers have exploited their privileged positions at the front of the classroom to propagandize and manipulate the impressionable young minds in their care.

    Meanwhile, many school administrators have lacked the intellectual and moral clarity to forcefully counter the antisemitism spilling out into the quad and amplified on social media.

    College officials who set aside “safe spaces” and promoted narrow campus speech codes to prevent “micro-aggressions” and “triggers” hypocritically dropped those standards when Jewish students found themselves blocked from classrooms and libraries (or, as at Cooper Union College, trapped within one as a mob raged outside).

    Bigotry that would have been instantly and rightly crushed had it targeted other minorities was instead condoned — and even sometimes celebrated.

    Let us be clear: No student should face threats in the classroom or on campus, nor feel targeted because of their religion or heritage.

    All bigotry, religious, ethnic, racial or otherwise, is wrong, absolutely un-American, and cannot be tolerated.

    As governors, we are responsible for the safety of our constituents, especially students in our schools.

    To fight the rising tide of hatred, we have all signed executive orders and legislation in recent months to combat antisemitism.

    Our directives require public schools to tackle antisemitism in the same manner as any other form of discrimination prohibited by state or federal law.

    To help confused school officials, we require student codes of conduct to clearly define antisemitism via the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance standard, and mandate protections guaranteed under Title VI of the 1965 Civil Rights Act.

    Tennessee, Arkansas and Oklahoma now designate a Title VI coordinator to monitor, review and investigate antisemitic complaints and incidents of discrimination in public K–12 and post-secondary schools.

    Similarly, Virginia established a cross-government and stakeholder work group to carry out these same responsibilities. The group submits an annual report clearly documenting any antisemitic incidents in the state, ensuring that those affected can pursue the justice they deserve.

    Currently, we are each creating or strengthening statewide oversight mechanisms to ensure all reported antisemitic incidents are investigated and remedied. Accountability reassures victims that their complaints will be met with a vigorous response.

    We are also incorporating and deepening education on antisemitism and Jewish-American history into our K-12 and higher ed classes — desperately needed, as surveys indicate declining knowledge about the Holocaust among American students.

    We have come to see the struggle against antisemitism as a pillar of American civil rights. 

    Just as racial reactionaries once disingenuously invoked “states’ rights” and “majority rule” to impede progress, leftists today cynically and disingenuously invoke “free speech” to justify the deliberate intimidation of Jewish students — a disturbing echo of attempts to drive black students from campuses even after the law compelled desegregation.

    We believe in free speech, but the First Amendment does not protect acts of violence or threats of physical harm.

    Yet standing up to bigotry takes courage. Too many school leaders — and state leaders, too — have become paralyzed by the politicization of antisemitism across our society.

    We, however, are proud to champion this fight, the civil rights movement of our time, and we call upon governors and state legislators across the country to join us.

    Taking firm action against antisemitism can unite all citizens of good will in a righteous effort to restore the American promise for a new generation.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with President Macron of France and Chancellor Merz of Germany: 13 June 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    PM call with President Macron of France and Chancellor Merz of Germany: 13 June 2025

    The Prime Minister’s call with the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, and the German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, this morning.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, and the German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, this morning following the developments in the Middle East overnight. 

    The leaders discussed the long-held grave concerns about Iran’s nuclear programme, and called on all sides to refrain from further escalation that could further destabilise the region.

    The leaders reaffirmed Israel’s right to self-defence, and agreed that a diplomatic resolution, rather than military action, was the way forward.

    They looked forward to speaking again soon.

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Belarusian Foreign Ministry expressed deep concern over the escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    MINSK, June 13 (Xinhua) — Belarus is deeply concerned about the new round of military escalation between Israel and Iran and reports of civilian deaths, including children. The corresponding statement by the Belarusian Foreign Ministry in connection with the escalation of the situation in the Middle East was published on Friday.

    “The forceful scenario of the conflict poses a serious threat to regional stability and security, carries the risk of a humanitarian catastrophe and may have unpredictable global consequences,” the Belarusian Foreign Ministry noted.

    The Belarusian Foreign Ministry called on the parties involved to exercise restraint, responsibility and avoidance of actions that could negatively impact the political and diplomatic efforts of the international community aimed at a comprehensive settlement of the situation in the region. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Last Month in the Field – May

    Source: Frontex

    The month of May marked a series of important developments for Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, reflecting its ongoing commitment to security, innovation, and cooperation at Europe’s borders. From participating in the EU’s flagship space event to piloting advanced surveillance technology and supporting thousands of voluntary returns, the Agency continued to deliver concrete results across its key missions.  

    Frontex took part in EU Space Days, held this year in Gdańsk, Poland. The event brought together more than 700 participants, including senior EU officials, policy experts, industry leaders, and innovators from across Europe. As the EU’s leading forum for space policy and innovation, the event focused on advancing the strategic use of space technologies to meet Europe’s security, economic, and environmental goals. 

    Frontex highlighted how satellite-based technologies are being used to strengthen border management and enhance situational awareness. Satellite-based navigation and communication systems play a critical role in tracking and operating assets—on land, at sea, and in the air—including in remote and difficult-to-access areas, where staying connected is essential.  

    The Agency currently provides 17 Copernicus-based products to EU Member States, supporting the monitoring of cross-border crime, irregular migration, and other key risks. These services enable national authorities to respond more effectively and in a timely manner. 

    Frontex is also advancing the integration of data from multiple sensors, a process known as data fusion, to build a more robust surveillance architecture. This supports early detection of threats and improved coordination among operational partners. Participation in EU Space Days underscored the growing importance of innovation in strengthening border security and showcased Frontex’s role in delivering cutting-edge, technology-driven solutions. 

    On 26 May, Frontex and the Bulgarian Border Police launched a new pilot project testing the use of long-endurance tactical drones for aerial surveillance of external borders. The initiative is part of Frontex’s broader strategy to operationalise next-generation European Border Surveillance capabilities. 

    The drones are equipped with advanced sensors and communication systems, offering real-time surveillance that significantly enhances situational awareness. The project aims to evaluate the drones’ operational performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness while reducing the logistical burden on ground teams. “This is not just about seeing more—it’s about seeing smarter,” said Hans Leijtens, Executive Director of Frontex. “By working together with Bulgaria and leading industry partners, we are taking concrete steps to future-proof European border security.” 

    The pilot involves three contracted companies—Global SAT, Shield AI, and DAT CON—which will deliver aerial surveillance services under a company-owned, company-operated model. The drones will support the detection of irregular border crossings and cross-border crimes, helping national authorities act quickly and effectively. A live demonstration of the new technology will take place in Burgas, Bulgaria, on 4 and 5 June 2025, bringing together representatives from EU Member States, EU agencies, and partner countries to observe the system in action and discuss its future potential. 

    Since March, Frontex has facilitated the voluntary return of more than 1,000 Syrian nationals from 14 EU Member States, following the political transition in Syria after the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024. This development has led many displaced Syrians to seek a return to their home country after years of conflict. 

    Frontex plays a critical role in supporting Member States by ensuring that all returnees are fully informed of their rights and the voluntary nature of their decision. Each return is carried out in line with EU legislation and international standards for the protection of fundamental rights. 

    “Returning home is a deeply human aspiration,” said Executive Director Hans Leijtens. “For many, it means reuniting with loved ones and rebuilding lives. We are proud to support this process in full respect of dignity and choice.” These returns are part of the EU’s broader commitment to humane and voluntary repatriation. Frontex also assists in pre-return counselling, coordination, and soon, reintegration support through an expanded European Reintegration Programme (EURP), now including Syria.

    In a milestone for Frontex operations, one of the Agency’s surveillance aircraft flew for the first time directly from a non-EU country. The flight took off from Tirana International Airport in Albania and covered both Joint Operations in Albania and Montenegro during a single mission. Until now, Frontex aircraft had only operated from within EU territory. This development marks a new chapter in border cooperation, enabling earlier detection of irregular migration, better prevention of cross-border crime, and improved coordination of Search and Rescue operations. Real-time images captured by the aircraft are shared with national authorities in Albania and Montenegro, as well as with Frontex Headquarters in Warsaw, allowing for rapid and informed decision-making. 

    Frontex participated in the Barracuda 2025 exercise in Sicily, a joint maritime training operation led by the Italian Coast Guard and the Armed Forces of Malta. The exercise covered critical areas including search and rescue, maritime monitoring, environmental protection, and accident response. 

    Supported by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) and the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA), the training was a strong demonstration of cross-border cooperation and operational readiness. Frontex teams contributed operational knowledge and helped ensure seamless coordination across participating agencies. Exercises like Barracuda strengthen Europe’s collective ability to protect lives at sea and respond swiftly to maritime emergencies.

    This month also saw other important milestones: 

    • In Leixões, Portugal, the deployment of an Advanced Level Document Officer (ALDO) helped strengthen national capacity in detecting document fraud, thanks to close cooperation between Frontex and Portuguese authorities. 
    • In Montenegro, a joint operation led to the seizure of 200 kilograms of illegal cut tobacco. With the support of vigilant Frontex officers and the swift action of Montenegrin authorities, this operation highlighted the effectiveness of cross-border cooperation in combatting smuggling. 

    May 2025 demonstrated the full scope of Frontex’s mission: leveraging innovation, supporting Member States, and strengthening cooperation across borders. With continued investments in technology, partnerships, and people, the Agency remains committed to helping build a secure and well-managed European border system. Frontex will continue to work side by side with EU Member States and partners—on land, at sea, and now even from space—to keep Europe’s borders strong, secure, and future-ready.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • Hamas says Iran ‘paying the price’ for supporting Gaza militants

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Palestinian Islamist group Hamas said Iran, its strategic ally, was “paying the price” for supporting militant groups in Gaza in their decades-long struggle against Israel, after Israel launched large-scale attacks on Friday against Iran.

    Hamas leaders have repeatedly thanked Iran for its military and financial support to the group in its fight against Israel, including during the ongoing war that erupted in October 2023.

    “Iran is today paying the price for its steadfast positions in support of Palestine and its resistance, and its adherence to its independent national decision,” Hamas said in a statement.

    Tehran has vowed retaliation for Israel’s early morning attack on Iranian military and nuclear facilities that killed several top commanders. Israel said it was working to intercept 100 drones that were launched by Iran, but had not reached Israel.

    Hamas armed wing spokesperson Abu Ubaida said in a post on Telegram later on Friday that the group would stand by Iran in its conflict against Israel.

    “The Zionist enemy is completely deluded if it thinks that these treacherous strikes can undermine the fronts of resistance or stabilize the pillars of this fragile entity in the region,” he said.

    “On the contrary, it continues to make successive strategic mistakes that will bring it closer to its inevitable demise, God willing.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why Israel’s air strikes signal a shifting relationship with the US and a weakening Iran

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Natasha Lindstaedt, Professor in the Department of Government, University of Essex

    The Middle East is undergoing a realignment of power. With Israel’s attack on Iranian nuclear sites and the assassination of at least two of Iran’s senior security officials, Benjamin Netanyahu is showing his willingness to go it alone and ignore pressure from the Trump administration.

    Though Donald Trump sought diplomatic solutions to the growing tensions between Israel and Iran, it appears that the US president, despite his previously strong relationship with the Israeli leader, was unable to restrain Netanyahu.

    The timing of the strikes is important. The Trump administration probably knew that they could not prevent Israel from striking Iran, but they did think they could pressure Israel to hold off launching an attack until after the US had solidified a new nuclear deal with Iran, talks for which were scheduled for June 15.

    Just hours before the air strikes, Trump said: “As long as I think there will be an agreement [with Iran], I don’t want them going in.”

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Experts had been divided in the past, over how much leverage the US held over Israel.

    Trump, following months of groundwork laid by the Joe Biden administration, managed to secure a ceasefire deal with Israel in January. But as part of the negotiation, Netanyahu succeeded in reversing sanctions on settlers in the West Bank, giving him free rein to act there. Additionally, the US also lifted its freeze on the transfer of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel, another concession that benefited Israel.

    The US also proved unwilling or incapable of stopping the humanitarian crisis that has unfolded in Gaza. Washington also appeared powerless to stop Israel’s pounding of Lebanon and its efforts to eradicate the Iran-backed militia Hezbollah.

    The US has become more of a spectator than a powerful regional actor. And sources suggest that Washington was not informed in advance of Israel’s airstrike that killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in October 2024, a sign of Israel’s growing willingness to act without US approval.



    Read more:
    Lethal humanitarianism: why violence at Gaza aid centres should not come as a surprise

    Indeed, the expansion of the war in Gaza to Lebanon was a pivotal moment in the region. With significant Israeli public support to stop Hezbollah (which had been launching rockets towards northern Israel), Israel pounded southern Beirut with airstrikes, killing several high-ranking Hezbollah officials.

    In the aftermath, Hezbollah was unable to replenish itself with younger recruits (it had relied on its charismatic leadership to recruit in the past), and the losses caused Hezbollah’s organisation to implode. By November 2024, Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire brokered by the US.

    Israel announces strikes on Iran.

    Iran’s weaker role

    Hezbollah’s near military and organisational collapse has been a big blow for Iran’s regional power. Hezbollah was at one point the most heavily armed violent non-state actor in the world. It had an army of around 50,000 men and experts speculated that it had as many as 200,000 rockets and missiles of various ranges in its arsenal.

    With the assassination of so many high-level officials in Hezbollah and Hamas, both of which Iran has bankrolled and used in its proxy conflicts with Israel, Iran has been severely weakened. As Iran is in the middle of an economic crisis, it no longer has the financial means to revive these traditional allies.



    Read more:
    Trump’s Middle East pivot aims to counter China’s rising influence

    For decades Iran had tried to gain strategic depth in the Middle East, with the US estimating that Iran spent more than US$16 billion to prop up Bashar al-Assad in Syria from 2012 to 2020. Additionally, with the fall of Assad, Syria can no longer serve as a transit corridor or logistical hub for shipments of arms from Iran to Hezbollah.

    With Turkey’s support for the various armed militias that ousted the Assad regime, it is Ankara, and not Tehran, that sees itself as the big winner in the aftermath of the Syrian civil war.

    US plans for Middle East threatened

    The US, meanwhile, is seeing its influence in the Middle East waning. And Trump’s plan for extending trade in the region, particularly in the Gulf, may also be undermined by the rising regional tension.

    The US had been due to send Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff to this weekend’s talks in Oman, with the aim of getting Tehran to agree to stop enriching uranium (which is crucial for creating nuclear weapons) in exchange for lifting economic sanctions. Trump had said that he did not want Israel to go ahead with its attack on Iran, and yet these calls went unheeded.

    Some US officials were optimistic that the escalating tensions taking place between Iran and Israel were mere tactics of negotiation amid the important nuclear talks. But, though the US was clearly warned about the attack, Washington was not able to deter Israel.

    Though the US still supplies Israel with US$3.8 billion (£2.8 billion) worth of arms per year, it has had little success in exercising much leverage recently. It remains to be seen if domestic political pressure could halt this US funding.

    International relations experts should not be surprised that Israel went on the offensive in Iran. Israel’s attacks on Hezbollah in 2024 were just a precursor to the bigger prize of bringing Iran to its knees.

    For Netanyahu, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape the Middle East and shift the regional power dynamics, and he appears to care little about what the US, or the rest of the world, thinks of how he does it.

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

    – ref. Why Israel’s air strikes signal a shifting relationship with the US and a weakening Iran – https://theconversation.com/why-israels-air-strikes-signal-a-shifting-relationship-with-the-us-and-a-weakening-iran-258926

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Your next summer read and our award-winning podcasts – what you should read, watch, see and listen to this week

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Naomi Joseph, Arts + Culture Editor

    The Women’s prize was founded in 1991 in bold riposte to the year’s all-male Booker prize shortlist. It’s funny to think how male-dominated the industry once was when you look at it now. There has been a real renaissance in literary fiction by women since then. Take last year’s Booker prize shortlist where the only male writer nominated was Percival Everett for his brilliant book James.

    That women dominate the literary landscape has not diminished the need for the Women’s prize, however. In fact, I would say it has grown in boldness and depth, now taking on non-fiction, a world still dominated by men. The prize has also launched their first outstanding contribution award, which this year was won by the inimitable Bernadine Evaristo.

    This year’s shortlisted books are a testament to the depth and variety of fiction being written by women. From a multi-generational tale of one Iranaian family to a daring and laugh-out-loud comedy about the rehabilitation of Isis brides by a researcher who worked for the UN doing just that. It serves as a perfect summer reading list. I have read four of the books so far and have loved every single one for very different reasons.

    This year’s winner, The Safekeep by Yael van der Woeden, is a queer romance exploring the lesser-documented consequences of the second world war in the 1980s Netherlands. It’s a book I have gifted several times already and might be my favourite book of 2024. I would also recommend reading last year’s winner, Brotherless Night by V.V. Ganeshananthan, which has made its way slowly around The Conversation newsroom.



    Read more:
    Women’s prize for fiction 2025: six experts review the shortlisted novels

    Scotland on screen

    Set in Edinburgh, Netflix’s Dept. Q follows arrogant maverick detective Carl Mork (Matthew Goode) whose hubris got him shot through the neck, his partner paralysed and a rookie officer killed. Back at work after this horrifying ordeal, he’s wracked with survivor’s guilt and more than a touch of post traumatic stress disorder. He’s been banished to the basement to lead a new cold case unit.

    Surprisingly, instead of being the fool’s errand his commander thinks Dept. Q will be, Mork and his rag tag team find themselves suited to this sort of work. Rather than throw him completely off his game, his new obsessive qualities and hyper-awareness of negative stimuli actually make him better at his job. Our reviewer, an expert in psychological vulnerabilities, analytical thinking patterns and cognitive processing styles, thoroughly enjoyed the show and found it really chimed with his research into how trauma can change the brain.



    Read more:
    Netflix’s Dept Q. suggests that psychological trauma might help a detective investigate – neuroscience backs this up

    From a Scottish detective crime thriller series to a Scottish samurai-western film. Yes, you read that right. Tornado is a revenge tale about a young samurai performer on the run from a gang of bandits in 18th-century Scotland. It might seem like an odd splicing of genres, but in his review film studies scholar Jonathan Wroot argues that the two have a long-shared history. Both westerns and samurai films envision a world full of lone warriors, greedy gangs, wild landscapes, epic struggles and, of course, violence.



    Read more:
    Tornado is a Scottish samurai-western film – genres with a long-shared history

    Tornado is in cinemas now

    Big birthdays and news

    This year marks the 250th birthday of Jane Austen and JMW Turner. Though the pair never met, both were great documenters of Regency England. A new exhibition at Leeds’s Harewood House explores the common threads in their work in relation to the cultural and societal significance of British country houses and their landscapes.

    At Austen and Turner: A Country House Encounter, visitors will be able to look upon rarely seen paintings and manuscripts, including the unfinished manuscript of Austen’s last work, Sanditon. Our reviewer, an expert in literature, found it wonderfully brought to life the reality of the landed aristocracy of the time. It’s sure to move anyone who has an interest in art and history.



    Read more:
    Austen and Turner: A Country House Encounter captures the spirit of two great geniuses, born 250 years ago

    Our final recommendation is our own podcast. This week a series of Conversation products were nominated at the Publisher podcast and newsletter awards, including Something Good. While we didn’t win, The Conversation did take home the big podcast prize, being named podcast publisher of the year.

    The Conversation Weekly talks to academics about their discoveries and explores the big questions they are still trying to answer.

    This week we take you to Indonesia where conservation scientist Hollie Booth trialled a programme paying fishermen to release any sharks and rays accidentally caught in their nets in the hope it would help to keep more alive. Listen to Booth and her colleague M. Said Ramdlan discuss the unintended consequences of the incentive programme.

    We also can’t recommend the limited series podcast Scam Factories enough, which took home best investigative podcast. The three-part series takes you inside the world of scammers, many of whom are often victims too.



    Read more:
    Cash for sharks: the unintended consequences of paying fishermen to release sharks caught in their nets – podcast



    Read more:
    Scam Factories: the inside story of Southeast Asia’s brutal fraud compounds

    – ref. Your next summer read and our award-winning podcasts – what you should read, watch, see and listen to this week – https://theconversation.com/your-next-summer-read-and-our-award-winning-podcasts-what-you-should-read-watch-see-and-listen-to-this-week-257747

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Troops on US streets in more ways than one while Trump considers axing Aukus defence pact

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Rachael Jolley, International Affairs Editor

    This article was first published in The Conversation UK’s World Affairs Briefing email newsletter. Sign up to receive weekly analysis of the latest developments in international relations, direct to your inbox.

    It’s Donald Trump’s birthday this weekend, and he is planning a big bash to celebrate. There will be a full-colour parade in the nation’s capital. Expected to attend are a whole bunch of military vehicles, from a second world war bomber to M1 Abrams battle tanks to Paladin self-propelled howitzers.

    The cavalcade will take a route through the grander streets of Washington DC making its way along Constitution Avenue all the way to the Lincoln memorial, with an expected 6,600 soldiers in attendance. The whole thing is estimated by the Associated Press to cost around US$45 million (£33 million).

    This splashy show of Trump’s power and the US’s military strength could serve as a warning to anyone who was thinking of crossing the US right now. Trump is, of course, the commander-in-chief of the US forces. And he was using the full strength of his position, some argue going beyond it, when he sent the national guard and the marines – bypassing the state governor – to the streets of Los Angeles in the past few days.

    There are now, according to ABC News, more US troops on the streets of LA than in Syria and Iraq. This was necessary, Trump claimed, to address protests over immigration raids that broke out around LA. Something that Sean Parnell, chief Pentagon spokesperson, said this week was “exactly what the American people voted for”.

    While Trump is testing how far he can flex his political and military muscle at home, as the Open University’s Sinead McEneaney has detailed, he is also using what some historians have called unprecedented use of power, by sending in the marines to take action against Americans, while California governor Gavin Newsom said the troops were not wanted, or needed.



    Read more:
    Trump’s clash with California governor over LA protests has potential to influence next presidential race

    Newsom is pushing back hard, and publicly, against Trump. Something, that Natasha Lindstaedt at the University of Essex, believes could propel Newsom higher up the Democrat selection list for a presidential nomination.



    Read more:
    Trump’s use of the national guard against LA protesters defies all precedents

    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.

    While signalling his military strength to those on the streets of California, Trump has also been sending a strong message to his erstwhile international allies that he might not be quite as willing to share his military hardware with them as they might have thought they had been promised. The US administration has opened a review of the Aukus (the Australia, UK and US defence pact) and in particular its nuclear submarine deal, to see whether it meets the “America first” criteria. This deal was due to help all three countries scale up their submarine capacity.

    Australia already transferred US$500 million to the US this year, as part of a down payment on the deal, with the expectation of receiving used US submarines in the near future. Canberra and London have been speedily revising their reliance on Trump as a security partner in the past few months. This is yet another signal from Washington that they definitely should.

    John Blaxland , a professor at the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University, argues that Trump is angling to renegotiate the Aukus deal but won’t scrap it.

    “There are a few key reasons for this. We’re several years down the track already. We have more than 100 Australian sailors already operating in the US system. Industrially, we’re on the cusp of making a significant additional contribution to the US submarine production line. And finally, most people don’t fully appreciate that the submarine base just outside Perth is an incredibly consequential piece of real estate for US security calculations.”



    Read more:
    Trump may try to strike a deal with AUKUS review, but here’s why he won’t sink it

    Meanwhile, Mark Beeson, an adjunct professor at the University of Technology Sydney and Griffith University, believes that Australia is locked into the foreign and strategic policies of “an increasingly polarised, authoritarian and unpredictable regime” and should rethink its international relationships.

    Beeson quotes an essay from another Australian academic, Hugh White, from Australian National University: “It is classic Trump to expect more and more from allies while he offers them less and less.”



    Read more:
    Goodbye to all that? Rethinking Australia’s alliance with Trump’s America

    Russia’s battlefield count

    In a military arena where most of the world would like Trump to apply a little more pressure, he continues to hold back and Vladimir Putin continues not to do a peace deal. Putin showed no sign of calling off his troops (or drones) from attacking Ukraine this week.

    But as the onslaught continued Russia is expected to hit a horrific target this month, 1 million casualties in the war. Hundreds of thousands of Russians have died forcing Putin to get increasingly creative in coming up with ways to fill the gaps on the battlefields.

    According to some reports he is sending the wounded back to fight before they are fully recovered, as well as offering large financial incentives to those who join up, and their families. The conflict continues and the death toll does, too. As Russian politics expert Jenny Mathers at the University of Aberystwyth points out, even before the war the country had a demographic crisis, and now that is even more extreme.

    Russian women who want to earn the newly reinstated “Mother Heroine” award by bearing and raising ten or more children may struggle to find men to father them now, and after the war. Putin, like Trump, is fond of suggesting there is a glowing future for those who support him. The Russian leader has even created a Time of Heroes programme for war veterans who are promised a fast track into an elite career on their return from battle. Whether, of course, they do return when an estimated 53 casualties are being lost per square kilometre of land gained in eastern Ukraine is not a gamble many would like to take.



    Read more:
    Putin forced to send wounded back to fight and offer huge military salaries as Russia suffers a million casualties

    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.

    – ref. Troops on US streets in more ways than one while Trump considers axing Aukus defence pact – https://theconversation.com/troops-on-us-streets-in-more-ways-than-one-while-trump-considers-axing-aukus-defence-pact-258874

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Introduces Bill to Keep Foreign Adversaries and Terrorist Sympathizers Out of America

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    Pfluger Introduces Bill to Keep Foreign Adversaries and Terrorist Sympathizers Out of America

    Washington, June 11, 2025

    WASHINGTON, DC—As first reported in Fox News, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) introduced legislation today to keep foreign adversaries and terrorist sympathizers out of America.

    The Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act would expand current U.S. law to prohibit members, officers, officials, representatives, and spokesmen of Hamas, Hezbollah, Al-Qaeda, ISIS, and Palestine Islamic Jihad from entering, or remaining in, the U.S. The bill would also apply to aliens who endorse or espouse terrorist activities conducted by any of these U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO).

    “There is no place in America for foreign adversaries or terrorist sympathizers,” said Rep. Pfluger. “As our nation faces a disturbing rise in antisemitic and illegal alien terror attacks, along with increasing pro-Hamas sentiment on our college campuses, we must take action to ensure our borders are secure from those wishing harm against Americans. I’m proud to introduce the Terrorist Inadmissibility Codification Act today to take a critical step in that effort.”

    Read more about the legislation in Fox News HERE or by clicking the image below.

    Rep. Pfluger’s legislation is supported by Representatives Michael McCaul (TX-10) and Derek Schmidt (KS-02).

    Read the full text of the legislation here.

    Background:

    Following the October 7thterrorist attacks in Israel, pro-Hamas demonstrations have continued to sweep across the U.S., including by foreign nationals. Under federal law, individuals who endorse or espouse terrorist activity are inadmissible. Current law explicitly states that members of certain groups, including the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), are not permitted in the U.S. However, the PLO is not the only group that should be banned in our nation.

    This law expands that list to Hamas, Hezbollah, Al-Qaeda, ISIS, and Palestine Islamic Jihad, ensuring that all affiliates of these groups are categorically banned from entry or residency in the U.S. The bill also clarifies and expands the scope to include not only direct members but also those who publicly endorse or espouse terrorist activities, banning these individuals from receiving a visa or admission to the U.S.

    This bill would close potential loopholes by making the ban statutory and explicit rather than relying solely on regulatory or administrative designations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Second Mattei Plan steering committee meeting

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    The second meeting of the Mattei Plan steering committee was held at Palazzo Chigi today, chaired by the Vice-President of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani.

    The meeting was attended by all Ministries concerned and the Conference of Regions and Autonomous Provinces as well as by representatives from the various State bodies and companies, publicly-owned enterprises, universities and research institutions, third sector organisations and private companies involved in cooperation and development activities.

    The meeting recalled President of the Council of Ministers Giorgia Meloni’s recent trips to Egypt (17 March) and Tunisia (17 April), which allowed for important agreements to be signed in a number of the Plan’s action areas: agriculture, water, education and training. The meeting also reviewed the trips to eastern Africa that have been undertaken by Task Force members, development cooperation officials and the ‘Sistema Italia’, as well as the future trips scheduled to take place in the coming weeks.

    Lastly, the meeting examined a consolidated version of the Mattei Plan summary document, in light of the observations made by steering committee members and ahead of finalising the document before its subsequent submission to Parliament for the parliamentary committees in charge to provide their opinion.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Larsen Releases Statement on Israel Striking Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    Larsen Releases Statement on Israel Striking Iran

    Washington, D.C., June 13, 2025

    Today, Representative Rick Larsen released the following statement:

    “The recent targeted Israeli attack on Iran was not indiscriminate or random. Israel has a right to self-defense and, with Trump administration’s faltering efforts at negotiations with Iran, the country determined it needed to act to protect its people. The United States should stand with Israel at this time.

    “Iran understands that Israel can demonstrate its will to defend itself. I now call on both countries to take steps to de-escalate and for the United States and Iran to continue negotiations on the Iranian nuclear program, preferably involving the international community which previously resulted in strict limitations on the Iranians.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ambassador of Belarus S.Terentyev meets with the First Deputy Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade of Egypt

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

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    On June 12, 2025 the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Belarus to the Arab Republic of Egypt, Sergei Terentyev, met with the First Deputy Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade of Egypt – Head of the Egyptian Commercial Service, Abdelaziz Al-Sherif.

    The sides discussed the preparation of the 8th meeting of the Belarusian-Egyptian Joint Trade Commission in Minsk, and the Roadmap for the development of trade and economic cooperation between the Republic of Belarus and the Arab Republic of Egypt.

    A special attention was paid to the issues of industrial cooperation in accordance with the agreements reached by the Heads of Governments of Belarus and Egypt in April 2024, including the resumption of work on assembly plants for Belarusian agricultural machinery in Egypt.

    – on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Orange Becomes the Strategic Partner of the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) Group for digital initiatives

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

    • The Orange group and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) Group announce the signing of a framework agreement at VivaTech 2025 making Orange the reference partner in digital matters.
    • This unprecedented agreement with a telecom operator aims to strengthen cooperation between the two groups to improve access to digital services, support innovation and accelerate environmental transition in their common areas of intervention.

    Christel Heydemann, CEO of Orange (www.Orange.com), Rémy Rioux, CEO of AFD Group, and Françoise Lombard, CEO of Proparco, signed an innovative partnership agreement to jointly accelerate digital inclusion and sustainable digital development. The three-year agreement provides a structured framework for cooperation on expertise and the emergence of joint projects internationally. It covers 17 countries in the Africa-Middle East region where Orange is present, as well as Moldova and French overseas departments. Priority themes include:

    • Digital inclusion of populations through the deployment of strategic infrastructure (ex. backbone equipment of very high-speed networks and submarine cables);
    • Financial and energy inclusion, and access to e-services (agriculture, health, education), especially in rural areas;
    • Reduction of the environmental footprint of digital technology;
    • Training and professional integration through digital tools;
    • Support for innovation and entrepreneurship;
    • Forward-looking discussions on ethical data use, security and artificial intelligence for development.

    As a multi-service operator and key partner in the digital transformation of the Africa-Middle East region, Orange has already opened 16 Orange Digital Centers and 32 Orange Digital Center Clubs in partnership with universities. These are free and accessible to all, and are designed to promote digital inclusion among youth and foster entrepreneurship.

    AFD Group supports public authorities, businesses, civil society and innovative ecosystems in their transition toward a more open, accessible and responsible digital world. It works alongside its partners to leverage digital solutions to achieve their Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    On the basis of this experience, Orange and AFD Group have worked together for over 20 years on various projects, such as supporting the deployment of fixed and mobile telecom networks for Orange subsidiaries in Jordan and Senegal, training youth in digital tools through Orange Foundations in Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Madagascar and Tunisia, and supporting coding training programs at Orange Digital Centers in Jordan.

    This new partnership will strengthen the synergies and increase the dissemination of best practices and innovations in the digital sector. It reflects a renewed ambition aimed at striving towards digital equality and SDG achievement through innovative solutions and collaborative initiatives.

    On signing the agreement, Christel Heydemann, CEO of Orange, stated:“This strategic partnership with AFD Group marks an important milestone in our collaboration. I look forward to continuing this dynamic of international cooperation for a more inclusive and sustainable digital future, reinforcing Orange’s commitment to expanding access to digital technology everywhere we operate. “

    Rémy Rioux, CEO of AFD Group, said: “AFD Group believes that digital technology is a powerful lever for transforming a diverse range of sectors, including public services, education, health and entrepreneurship. This first strategic partnership with Orange exemplifies this shared ambition to support the emergence of sovereign digital services at a local level by investing in solutions that are innovative, open and responsible.”

    Françoise Lombard, CEO of Proparco, added: “Proparco, AFD Group’s subsidiary dedicated to the private sector, is fully committed to strengthening its partnership with Orange, both strategically and operationally. By combining our networks, expertise and resources, we are working with determination to improve digital access for all in France and emerging countries.”

    – on behalf of Orange Middle East and Africa.

    Press contacts:
    Flaminia le Maignan: flaminia.lemaignan@orange.com
    Service presse AFD: _afdpresse@afd.fr

    Follow us on:
    X: @ orangegrouppr (https://apo-opa.co/4jKVTnh)

    About Orange:
    Orange is one of the world’s leading telecommunications operators with revenues of 40.3 billion euros in 2024 and 125,800 employees worldwide at 31 March 2025, including 69,700 employees in France. The Group has a total customer base of 294 million customers worldwide at 31 March 2025, including 256 million mobile customers and 22 million fixed broadband customers. These figures account for the deconsolidation of certain activities in Spain following the creation of MASORANGE. The Group is present in 26 countries (including non-consolidated countries).

    Orange is also a leading provider of global IT and telecommunication services to multinational companies under the brand Orange Business. In February 2023, the Group presented its strategic plan “Lead the Future”, built on a new business model and guided by responsibility and efficiency. “Lead the Future” capitalizes on network excellence to reinforce Orange’s leadership in service quality.

    Orange is listed on Euronext Paris (symbol ORA).

    For more information on the internet and on your mobile: www.Orange.com, www.Orange-Business.com and the Orange News app. 

    Orange and any other Orange product or service names included in this material are trademarks of Orange or Orange Brand Services Limited.

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Eugene Doyle: Team Genocide and the West’s war on Iran

    COMMENTARY: By Eugene Doyle

    I have visited Iran twice. Once in June 1980 to witness an unprecedented event: the world’s first Islamic Revolution. It was the very start of my writing career.

    The second time was in 2018 and part of my interest was to get a sense of how disenchanted the population was — or was not — with life under the Ayatollahs decades after the creation of the Islamic Republic.

    I loved my time in Iran and found ordinary Iranians to be such wonderful, cultured and kind people.

    When I heard the news today of Israel’s attack on Iran I had the kind of emotional response that should never be seen in public. I was apoplectic with rage and disgust, I vented bitterly and emotively.

    Then I calmed down. And here is what I would like to say:

    Just last week former CIA officer Ray McGovern, who wrote daily intelligence briefings for the US President during his 27-year career, reminded me when I interviewed him that the assessment of the US intelligence community has been for years that Iran ceased its nuclear weapons programme in 2003 and had not recommenced since.

    The departing CIA director William Burns confirmed this assessment recently.  Propaganda aside, there is nothing new other than a US-Israeli campaign that has shredded any concept of international laws or norms.

    I won’t mince words: what we are witnessing is the racist, genocidal Israeli regime, armed and encouraged by the US, Germany, UK and other Western regimes, launching a war that has no justification other than the expansion of Israeli power and the advancement of its Greater Israel project.

    This year, using American, German and British armaments, supported by underlings like Australia and New Zealand, the Israelis have pursued their genocide against the Palestinians in both the West Bank and Gaza, and attacked various neighbours, including Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Iraq and Iran.

    They represent a clear and present danger to peace and stability in the region.

    Iran has operated with considerable restraint but has also shown its willingness to use its military to keep the US-Israeli menace at bay. What most people forget is that the project to secure Iran’s borders and keep the likes of the British, Israelis and Americans out is a multi-generational project that long predates the Islamic Revolution.

    I would recommend Iran: A modern history by the US-based scholar Abbas Amanat that provides a long-view of the evolution of the Iranian state and how it has survived centuries of pressure and multiple occupations from imperial powers, including Russia, Britain, the US and others.

    Hard-fought independence
    The country was raped by the Brits and the Americans and has won a hard-fought independence that is being seriously challenged, not from within, but by the Israelis and the Western warlords who have wrecked so many countries and killed millions of men, women and children in the region over recent decades.

    I spoke and messaged with Iranian friends today both in Iran and in New Zealand and the response was consistent. They felt, one of them said, 10 times more hurt and emotional than I did.

    Understandable.

    A New Zealand-based Iranian friend had to leave work as soon as he heard the news.  He scanned Iranian social media and found people were upset, angry and overwhelmingly supportive of the government.

    “They destroyed entire apartment buildings! Why?”, “People will be very supportive of the regime now because they have attacked civilians.”

    “My parents are in the capital. I was so scared for them.”

    Just a couple of years ago scholars like Professor Amanat estimated that core support for the regime was probably only around 20 percent.  That was my impression too when I visited in 2018.

    Nationalism, existential menace
    Israel and the US have changed that. Nationalism and an existential menace will see Iranians rally around the flag.

    Something I learnt in Iran, in between visiting the magnificent ruins of the capital of the Achaemenid Empire at Persepolis, exploring a Zoroastrian Tower of Silence, chowing down on insanely good food in Yazd, talking with a scholar and then a dissident in Isfahan, and exploring an ancient Sassanian fort and a caravanserai in the eastern desert, was that the Iranians are the most politically astute people in the region.

    Many I spoke to were quite open about their disdain for the regime but none of them sought a counter-revolution.

    They knew what that would bring: the wolves (the Americans, the Israelis, the Saudis, and other bad actors) would slip in and tear the country apart. Slow change is the smarter option when you live in this neighbourhood.

    Iranians are overwhelmingly well-educated, profoundly courteous and kind, and have a deep sense of history. They know more than enough about what happened to them and to so many other countries once a great power sees an opening.

    War is a truly horrific thing that always brings terrible suffering to ordinary people. It is very rarely justified.

    Iran was actively negotiating with the Americans who, we now know, were briefed on the attack in advance and will possibly join the attack in the near future.

    US senators are baying for Judeo-Christian jihad. Democrat Senator John Fetterman was typical: “Keep wiping out Iranian leadership and the nuclear personnel. We must provide whatever is necessary — military, intelligence, weaponry — to fully back Israel in striking Iran.”

    We should have the moral and intellectual honesty to see the truth:  Our team, Team Genocide, are the enemies of peace and justice.  I wish the Iranian people peace and prosperity.

    Eugene Doyle is a writer based in Wellington. He has written extensively on the Middle East, as well as peace and security issues in the Asia Pacific region. He contributes to Asia Pacific Report and Café Pacific, and hosts the public policy platform solidarity.co.nz.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/IRAN – Is the attack on Iran a dangerous gamble?

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Friday, 13 June 2025 war  

    Rome (Agenzia Fides) – The attack launched last night (June 13) by Israel against Iran raises the level of the “global war in pieces” repeatedly denounced by Pope Francis. In fact, Iran has described last night’s attacks as “a declaration of war.” The Israeli government has justified the military operation, (which is expected to last for weeks), to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.Just yesterday, June 12, the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) approved a resolution condemning Iran for “non-compliance” with its nuclear obligations. The text, drafted by London, Paris, and Berlin (E3) in collaboration with Washington, was approved by 19 of the 35 countries, with three votes against and 11 absences. On the night of June 12-13, the Israeli attack, clearly planned for a long time, was launched.The initial attack targeted the Natanz uranium enrichment complex, but not the other facilities of Iran’s atomic program (we will see if they will be attacked later), air defenses, and missile bases capable of reaching Israel. These targets were followed by the targeted assassinations of Iranian scientists and military officials. Among the assassinated figures was Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s political advisor, Ali Shamkhani, a key figure in the Iranian political system who had engaged with the Trump administration to allow Iran to continue its civilian nuclear program.Shamkhani had delivered a moderate message during the negotiations between the United States and Iran, stating that “a solution is at hand through diplomacy.” He also played an important role in normalizing relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia.The Trump administration has stated, through Secretary of State Marco Rubio, that “Israel has taken unilateral action against Iran” and that the United States “is not involved in attacks against Iran, and our top priority is to protect US forces in the region.” Israel has informed us that it believes this action was necessary for its self-defense.” In a message posted on Truth Social, President Trump stated: “There has already been significant death and destruction, but there is still time to end this massacre, as the next planned attacks will be even more brutal,” implying that he is aware of Israel’s upcoming moves. Are these Israeli attacks coordinated with Washington to obtain Iranian concessions at the negotiating table? Or has the situation gotton out of control? It is also worth asking whether there are deep disagreements within the Trump administration over the launch of Israeli military operations. The Director of National Intelligence, who oversees the 18 US spy agencies, released a video on June 10 in which she warned that humanity is “on the brink of nuclear annihilation,” which could be interpreted as distancing herself from an attack with unpredictable consequences. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 13/6/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    UNITED NATIONS, June 13 (Xinhua) — The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution at an emergency special session on Thursday calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and large-scale humanitarian access.

    The document calls for “an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire that must be respected by all parties.”

    It strongly condemns the use of starvation of civilians as a method of warfare and the unlawful denial of humanitarian access. The resolution stresses that the parties should not deprive civilians in the Gaza Strip of the items necessary for survival, including by deliberately obstructing the delivery of and access to humanitarian assistance.

    It is noted that, in accordance with international law, the occupying power is obliged to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches all people in need. The resolution calls for immediate and continued facilitation of the full, rapid, safe and unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid throughout the Gaza Strip and its delivery to all Palestinian civilians.

    The document demands that Israel, as the occupying power, immediately end the blockade, open all border crossings and ensure the immediate and massive flow of aid to the Palestinian civilian population throughout the Gaza Strip.

    The need for accountability to ensure Israel’s compliance with its obligations under international law is emphasized and in this regard, all UN Member States, individually and collectively, are called upon to take all necessary measures to ensure Israel’s compliance with its obligations.

    The resolution was adopted by 149 votes in favor, 12 against and 19 abstentions. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Statement on the Situation in Iran

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi. (Photo: D. Calma/IAEA)

    Early this morning, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was informed of the military operation launched by Israel which includes attacks on nuclear facilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

    We are currently in contact with the Iranian nuclear safety authorities to ascertain the status of relevant nuclear facilities and to assess any wider impacts on nuclear safety and security. At present, the competent Iranian authorities have confirmed that the Natanz enrichment site has been impacted and that there are no elevated radiation levels. They have also reported that at present the Esfahan and Fordow sites have not been impacted.

    This development is deeply concerning. I have repeatedly stated that nuclear facilities must never be attacked, regardless of the context or circumstances, as it could harm both people and the environment.  Such attacks have serious implications for nuclear safety, security and safeguards, as well as regional and international peace and security.

    In this regard, the IAEA recalls the numerous General Conference resolutions on the topic of military attacks against nuclear facilities, in particular, GC(XXIX)/RES/444 and GC(XXXIV)/RES/533, which provide, inter alia, that “any armed attack on and threat against nuclear facilities devoted to peaceful purposes constitutes a violation of the principles of the United Nations Charter, international law and the Statute of the Agency”. 

    Furthermore, the IAEA has consistently underlined that “armed attacks on nuclear facilities could result in radioactive releases with grave consequences within and beyond the boundaries of the State which has been attacked”, as was stated in GC(XXXIV)/RES/533.

    As Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and consistent with the objectives of the IAEA under the IAEA Statute, I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation. I reiterate that any military action that jeopardizes the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond.

    Yesterday, the Board of Governors adopted an important resolution on Iran’s safeguards obligations. In addition to this, the Board resolution stressed its support for a diplomatic solution to the problems posed by the Iranian nuclear programme.

    The IAEA continues to monitor the situation closely, stands ready to provide technical assistance, and remains committed to its nuclear safety, security and safeguards mandate in all circumstances. I stand ready to engage with all relevant parties to help ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful use of nuclear technology in accordance with the Agency mandate, including, deploying Agency nuclear security and safety experts (in addition to our safeguards inspectors in Iran) wherever necessary to ensure that nuclear installations are fully protected and continue to be used exclusively for peaceful purposes.

    I wish to inform the Board that I have indicated to the respective authorities my readiness to travel at the earliest to assess the situation and ensure safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran.

    I have also been in contact with our inspectors in Iran and Israel. The safety of our staff is of paramount importance. All necessary actions are being taken to ensure they are not harmed.

    Despite the current military actions and heightened tensions, it is clear that the only sustainable path forward—for Iran, for Israel, the entire region, and the international community—is one grounded in dialogue and diplomacy to ensure peace, stability, and cooperation. 

    The International Atomic Energy Agency, as the international technical institution entrusted with overseeing the peaceful use of nuclear energy, remains the unique and vital forum for dialogue, especially now. 

    In accordance with its Statute and longstanding mandate, the IAEA provides the framework and natural platform where facts prevail over rhetoric and where engagement can replace escalation. 

    I reaffirm the Agency’s readiness to facilitate technical discussions and support efforts that promote transparency, safety, security and the peaceful resolution of nuclear-related issues in Iran.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Meets Iranian Ambassador

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, June 13

    HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met on Friday with HE Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the State of Qatar, Ali Salehabadi.

    During the meeting, the two sides discussed aspects of bilateral cooperation and explored ways to enhance and develop them. They also addressed the latest developments in the region.

    HE the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the State of Qatar’s strong condemnation and deep denunciation of the Israeli attack on the Iranian territory, describing it as a blatant violation of Iran’s sovereignty and security, and a clear breach of international law and established principles.

    MIL OSI Africa –