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Category: Middle East

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advocacy – Commemorating 77 Years of the Palestinian Nakba: A Call for Justice, Memory, and Solidarity

    Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    On 15 May 2025, Palestinians and their allies around the world mark Nakba Day, commemorating 77 years since the catastrophic displacement of over 750,000 Palestinians from their homes in 1948. Known as al-Nakba, or “the Catastrophe,” this moment in history saw the systematic destruction of Palestinian villages, towns, and society — a tragedy whose consequences are still being felt today.

    For Palestinians, the Nakba is not confined to history books; it is a lived and ongoing reality. Millions remain refugees and exiles, denied their internationally recognised right of return, while those in the occupied Palestinian territories and within historic Palestine continue to endure military occupation, siege, and systematic oppression.

    “Nakba Day is a solemn reminder of both the injustice that befell the Palestinian people in 1948 and the ongoing violations of their rights to this day,” said Maher Nazzal, spokesperson for the Palestine Forum of New Zealand. “It is a call to the international community — including here in Aotearoa — to stand with Palestinians in their struggle for freedom, justice, and self-determination.”

    This year’s commemoration comes amid intensified violence in Gaza, relentless settlement expansion in the West Bank, and a growing humanitarian catastrophe. The Palestine Forum of New Zealand calls on the New Zealand government to uphold its moral and legal responsibilities by advocating for an end to the occupation, supporting the right of return for refugees, and taking decisive action against ongoing violations of international law.

    “The Nakba is not a chapter of the past — it is a continuing story of dispossession and resistance,” Nazzal added. “We urge all people of conscience to honour the memory of the Nakba by standing in solidarity with Palestine today.”

    Maher Nazzal
    Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Risch Send Letter Backing President Trump’s Call for Full Dismantlement of Iran’s Nuclear Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) joined Jim Risch (R-Idaho), chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, in sending a letter to President Donald Trump regarding the Administration’s ongoing negotiations with Iran.  The letter calls on the Trump Administration to secure a deal that results in the full dismantlement of the Iranian nuclear program, including permanently ending the regime’s capacity to enrich uranium.  The letter was signed by 51 Senate Republicans.  The letter states:
    “We write to express our strong support for your efforts to secure a deal with Iran that dismantles its nuclear program, and to reinforce the explicit warnings that you and officials in your Administration have issued that the regime must permanently give up any capacity for enrichment.
    “We cannot afford another agreement that enables Iran to play for time, as the JCPOA did.  The Iranian regime should know that the Administration has Congressional backing to ensure their ability to enrich uranium is permanently eliminated,” the letter continues.  “As always we stand ready to provide you and your Administration whatever resources you need to advance American national security interests.”
    The letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), Leader John Thune (R-South Dakota) Jim Justice (R-West Virginia), Steve Daines (R-Montana), John Curtis (R-Utah), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Dave McCormick (R-Pennsylvania), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), Rick Scott (R-Florida), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Jim Banks (R-Indiana), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina), Shelly Moore Capito (R-West Virginia), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Ashley Moody (R-Florida), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), Dan Sullivan (R-Arkansas), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Todd Young (R-Indiana), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri), Roger Marshall (R-Kansas), Josh Hawley (R-Missouri), Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin), and Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina).
    Read the full letter here or below:
    Dear Mr. Trump:
    We write to express our strong support for your efforts to secure a deal with Iran that dismantles its nuclear program, and to reinforce the explicit warnings that you and officials in your Administration have issued that the regime must permanently give up any capacity for enrichment.
    During your first term you withdrew the United States from the deeply broken Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and imposed maximum pressure on the regime.  As you said then, a fatal flaw of the deal was that it “allowed Iran to continue enriching uranium and, over time, reach the brink of a nuclear breakout.”  The JCPOA allowed Iran to sell oil, provided waivers allowing third countries to help Iran build out its nuclear program and included the termination of United Nations sanctions on the regime.  Despite critics claiming your withdrawal from the deal would allow Iran to advance its nuclear ambitions, the Iranian regime remained deterred from making substantial nuclear progress throughout your term because of your maximum pressure campaign.
    Tragically, the Biden Administration systematically undid that pressure, functionally re-implementing the nuclear deal.  They immediately rescinded your decision to reimpose U.N. sanctions, allowed Iran to sell oil at JCPOA-levels and even re-issued waivers allowing Iran to build out its nuclear program.  As you predicted, those policies indeed allowed Iran to reach the brink of nuclear breakout, which is where they are today.  The Biden Administration made those concessions without any reciprocal concessions from Iran, and Iran even ceased providing international inspectors access to significant parts of its nuclear program in the early days of the Biden Administration.
    The scope and breadth of Iran’s nuclear buildout have made it impossible to verify any new deal that allows Iran to continue enriching uranium.  In its most recent report, published on February 26, the International Atomic Energy Agency confirmed that because of Iran’s activities over the last four years, “the Agency has lost continuity of knowledge in relation to the production and current inventory of centrifuges, rotors and bellows, heavy water and UOC, which it will not be possible to restore.”
    You and your Administration have therefore correctly drawn a redline against any deal that allows Iran to retain any enrichment capability.  Your National Security Presidential Memorandum on Iran stated that “Iran’s nuclear program, including its enrichment- and reprocessing-related capabilities and nuclear-capable missiles, poses an existential danger to the United States and the entire civilized world,” and you recently said that only “full dismantlement” of those capabilities would be acceptable.  Special Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff has made it clear in that context of negotiation that for any final arrangement to work, “Iran must stop and eliminate its nuclear enrichment and weaponization program.”
    We cannot afford another agreement that enables Iran to play for time, as the JCPOA did.  The Iranian regime should know that the Administration has Congressional backing to ensure their ability to enrich uranium is permanently eliminated.
    As always, we stand ready to provide you and your Administration whatever resources you need to advance American national security interests.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican national sentenced to 70 months for possession of sexually explicit images and videos of children

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 47-year-old Mexican man has been sentenced for possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Felix Raymundo Mora-Gonzalez pleaded guilty Feb. 20.

    U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now sentenced Mora-Gonzalez to 70 months in federal prison. He was further ordered to pay $13,000 in restitution to the known victims and will serve 25 years on supervised release following the completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Mora-Gonzalez will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.

    Mora-Gonzalez was arrested Feb. 21, 2023, in connection with his involvement in an alien smuggling investigation. Mora-Gonzalez was originally arrested for harboring illegal aliens. However, the investigation uncovered a cell phone at the stash house that belonged him. A forensic examination of the cell phone revealed Mora-Gonzalez knowingly possessed 29 videos and nine images of CSAM.

    He also pleaded guilty to the alien smuggling charges and was previously sentenced to 15 months.

    Mora-Gonzalez will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations and Border Patrol conducted the investigation.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ana C. Cano, Israel Cano and Joe Esquivel prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page. 

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK at heart of NATO talks on strengthening Euro-Atlantic security and support for Ukraine

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    UK at heart of NATO talks on strengthening Euro-Atlantic security and support for Ukraine

    NATO Allies are in Turkey to underline the Alliance’s support for Ukraine and commitment to a secure and stable Euro-Atlantic.

    • UK leading calls for Europe to support Ukraine
    • UK and NATO Allies will commit to building a stronger, fairer and more lethal NATO at meeting of Foreign Ministers in Antalya 
    • Visit follows UK hosted talks with European partners on bolstering security and support for Ukraine 

    As President Zelenskyy further demonstrates his commitment to peace by travelling to Istanbul for direct talks with Russia, NATO Allies are gathering in Turkey today to underline the Alliance’s support for Ukraine and commitment to a secure and stable Euro-Atlantic, with a stronger, fairer and more lethal NATO at its core. 

    At the NATO informal Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Antalya, the Foreign Secretary will lead calls for the strongest Alliance in history to stand united in the face of a generational threat from our adversaries, and stand behind Ukraine to secure a just and lasting peace. Security is the foundation of our Plan for Change and central to this government’s plans to deliver growth and prosperity to British working people.

    Ahead of the Hague Summit in June, Allies are meeting in Antalya with a clear message that NATO must step up together to meet this critical moment for our collective security. The Foreign Secretary will say that Europe must shoulder more responsibility for its own security, as security threats from Russia and its enablers continue to mount. 

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: 

    Today, President Zelenskyy is in Turkey in a further demonstration of his commitment to peace, ready to enter talks direct with Russia and continuing to push for a full ceasefire as a first crucial step.

    As myself and my fellow NATO Allies also travel to Turkey, we are united alongside Ukraine in our determination to secure a just and lasting peace. We are working to deliver more for our collective security and bring this barbaric war to an end.

    Euro-Atlantic security is the foundation of our Plan for Change. Without the security NATO provides, we cannot deliver the growth and prosperity the British people deserve.” 

    During his remarks in an informal meeting of the North Atlantic Council, the Foreign Secretary will update on UK steps to protect Euro-Atlantic security and disrupt Russia’s reckless actions to force Putin’s hand. He will say that every step the Alliance takes to increase pressure on Russia and achieve peace in Ukraine is another step towards security and prosperity at home and abroad. 

    Earlier this week, six spies working for Russia were sentenced in the UK, as the UK cracks down on Russian espionage attempts on British soil. The successful convictions came about as a result of close international cooperation with a number of NATO Allies, including Bulgaria, France and Germany, demonstrating a unified front against hostile Russian activity. 

    The visit follows the UK-hosted Weimar+ meeting on Monday, where representatives from France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Poland and the EU joined the Foreign Secretary in London to share Europe’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s right to peace and freedom. 

    It also comes after the Prime Minister’s visit to Oslo last week where the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) announced enhanced support for the Ukrainian Armed Forces through intensive training exercises, increasing interoperability across military platforms and enhancing countering disinformation support as well as allowing JEF Nations to learn from the battlefield experience of Ukraine’s armed forces.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: 30 DEMOCRATS URGE PRESIDENT TRUMP TO CALL ON NETANYAHU TO ADDRESS HUMANITARIAN CRISIS IN GAZA

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

    WASHINGTON – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and co-chair of Abraham Accords Caucus, led 27 fellow House Democrats on a letter to President Trump urging him to call on Prime Minister Netanyahu to immediately restore the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. 

    The letter notes Israel is fighting an existential war. “Israel has the right and obligation to defeat Hamas and rescue the hostages,” the members wrote. “At the same time, it is critical that Israel enables entry of lifesaving humanitarian aid into Gaza. We respectfully urge you to call on Prime Minister Netanyahu to immediately address this humanitarian crisis and promote lasting peace”

    “There will not be peace as long as Hamas reigns terror over Gaza and seeks to destroy Israel,” added Rep. Schneider. “As Israel works to defeat and dismantle Hamas, it must also facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Just as it is crucial for food, water, and medicines to get to civilians, it is imperative that Hamas, and gangs affiliated with Hamas, are not allowed to hijack future aid entering the Strip.” 

    Members who signed the letter include Reps. Wesley Bell (MO-01), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Gilbert Cisneros (CA-31), Steve Cohen (TN-07), Angie Craig (MN-02), Danny Davis (IL-07), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), Laura Friedman (CA-30), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Steny Hoyer (MD-05), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Rick Larsen (WA-02), George Latimer (NY-16), John Mannion (NY-22), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Frank Mrvan (IN-01), Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Brittany Petterson (CO-07), Kim Schrier (WA-08), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), and Eugene Vindman (VA-07).

    The full letter text is below.

    Dear President Trump: 

    On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a brutal and unprovoked war on Israel, murdering civilians and kidnapping hundreds of hostages. More than 40 Americans were killed, 13 were taken hostage, and five still remain unaccounted for. Presently, 59 hostages are still held in Gaza, of which 24 are presumed living and languishing in Hamas’s tunnels, enduring unspeakable abuse and terror. 

    Israel has the right and obligation to defeat Hamas and rescue the hostages. At the same time, it is critical that Israel enables entry of lifesaving humanitarian aid into Gaza. We respectfully urge you to call on Prime Minister Netanyahu to immediately address this humanitarian crisis and promote lasting peace.  

    You recently highlighted the ongoing humanitarian suffering in Gaza, where Hamas uses Palestinian civilians as human shields. We appreciate your recognition of the urgent need for food, water, and medicine to reach civilians — and we agree. The World Food Program recently announced that its warehouses are now empty, and many civilians are suffering from lack of access to food and clean water. It is vital for humanitarian assistance to again get to those in need, even amid the ongoing conflict. We also urge you to keep your recent commitment “to help the people of Gaza get some food.” 

    We recognize that restoring humanitarian aid must coexist with the campaign to return the hostages and defeat Hamas. Failing to ensure aid reaches civilians risks greater humanitarian catastrophe, strengthens Hamas’s false narratives, risks Israel’s international standing, and undermines the moral clarity of the need to dismantle Hamas and bring hopes for peace and prosperity to the region. The United States must both stand with our allies and uphold our values, including protecting civilian life. Ensuring the safe and sustained delivery of humanitarian aid, while continuing to stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel in its fight against terrorism, is essential to returning the hostages while preserving our shared commitment to security, justice, and human dignity.  

    We respectfully urge you to continue speaking out about the importance of restoring humanitarian assistance and to encourage Prime Minister Netanyahu to enable the delivery of life-saving food, water, and medicine to civilians in Gaza without delay. Your leadership at this critical moment can help save lives, reinforce America’s steadfast support for both our values and our allies, and support Israel’s vital mission to dismantle Hamas and bring every hostage home. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Africa Road Builders: Angolan President João Lourenco, winner of the Babacar Ndiaye Prize 2025

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    Angolan President João Lourenço has won the 2025 “Africa Road Builders” prize –awarded to African leaders who have invested in infrastructure development. He follows Equatorial Guinea’s Téodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo and Congo Denis Sassou-Nguesso, who were joint winners in 2024.

    The selection committee for the Babacar Ndiaye Road Builder Super Prize, meeting in Dubai on 25 April, awarded it to Lourenço for the construction of major transport infrastructure in Angola. Projects include the Lobito Corridor, a strategic regional railway line between Zambia, Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The African Development Fund, the African Development Bank Group’s concessional loans window, provided a grant of $8.14 million towards implementing the project, which will improve regional integration and support trade between the three countries.

    The construction of the new Dr Agostinho Neto international airport, which opened in November 2023, paving 2,000 km of roads, resurfacing a further 2,000 km and building a light metro system in Luanda were the key factors in making their decision, the committee said.

    “We were aware that in recent years, Angola has embarked on a major transformation of its transport infrastructure, with the aim of strengthening its strategic position in southern and central Africa and diversifying its economy. The immediate impacts of these various projects and achievements have been the creation of several services, including the use of new information and communication technologies,” explained the Africa Road Builders selection committee.

    The latest winner of the Babacar Ndiaye prize will receive his award in Abidjan on 28 May, alongside the Annual Meetings 2025 of the African Development Bank Group.

    Sponsored by the African Development Bank Group, the Babacar Ndiaye Africa Road Builders prize is awarded by Acturoutes, a platform that provides information on the road network and infrastructure in Africa, and the organization Media for Infrastructure and Finance in Africa (MIFA), a network of African journalists specializing in road infrastructure.

    The prize was created in honour of Babacar Ndiaye (1936-2017), President of the African Development Bank Group from 1985 – 1995. Each year, the “Africa Road Builders” Selection Committee evaluates ambitious, tangible projects that have a real impact on people’s mobility in Africa.

    Since its launch in 2016, the Babacar Ndiaye Prize has been awarded to the following heads of state: King Mohamed VI (Morocco), Edgar Lungu (Zambia), Alassane Ouattara (Côte d’Ivoire), Ali Bongo Ondimba (Gabon), Macky Sall (Senegal) and Paul Kagamé (Rwanda) as joint winners in 2017, Uhuru Kenyatta (Kenya), Adama Barrow (Gambia), Abdel Fattah-al Sissi (Egypt), Muhammadu Buhari (Nigeria), Samia Suhulu Hassan (Tanzania), Andry Rajoelina (Madagascar), and Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo (Equatorial Guinea) and Denis Sassou-Nguesso (Congo), joint winners in 2024.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Jayapal to Host Viewing of No Other Land at the U.S. Capitol

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) will host a panel discussion and special Capitol Hill viewing of the Academy Award winning documentary film, “No Other Land” for Members of Congress, congressional staff, civil society leaders, and members of the press. The panel of experts, moderated by journalist Mehdi Hasan, will discuss the film, settler violence in the West Bank, the expansion of Israeli settlements, and shifts in U.S. policy.  
    Event: Panel Discussion and Viewing of “No Other Land” Date and Time: Monday, May 19, 2025 at 7:00PM Location: South Orientation Theater (CVC 241), Capitol Visitor Center Panel: U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07); Zaha Hassan; Dr. Debra Shushan; and Josh Paul; moderated by Mehdi Hasan. 
    RSVP: Please RSVP using this LINK 
    Entry Instructions: Please see Capitol Visitor Guidelines here. Use the main entrance near the intersection of East Capitol St NE and First St NE (by the Supreme Court and Library of Congress). Follow the signage down to the Capitol Visitor Center entrance, to the lower floor of the Visitor Center. 
    Winner of the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature Film, “No Other Land” is directed by a collective of directors from Palestine and Israel—Basel Adra, Hamdan Ballal, Yuval Abraham, and Rachel Szor. The Oscar winning documentary follows Palestinian activist Basel Adra as he documents the demolition of his community in Masafer Yatta. It is a powerful testament to shared resistance, human rights, and the enduring struggle for justice. 
    Senator Welch and Representative Jayapal have co-led several efforts on issues related to the West Bank, including legislation to fund UNRWA. In April, Senator Welch and Representative Jayapal led 29 of their bicameral colleagues in raising the alarm over escalating violence in the West Bank. In a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the lawmakers urged the Trump Administration to immediately reinstate sanctions against individuals who perpetrate violence that undermines regional stability and security in the West Bank. The bicameral letter was in response to the violent assault of Hamdan Ballal, a director of “No Other Land.” On March 24, 2025, Mr. Ballal was attacked by a group of Israeli settlers in the village of Susiya in the occupied West Bank. Following this attack, Israeli Defense Forces arrested and detained Mr. Ballal.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Ricketts, colleagues applaud President Trump’s push to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) today joined Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and 50 Republican colleagues in sending a letter to President Donald Trump applauding the president’s efforts to secure a deal with Iran that dismantles its nuclear program.
    Key excerpts of the letter are below:
    “During your first term you withdrew the United States from the deeply broken Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and imposed maximum pressure on the regime. As you said then, a fatal flaw of the deal was that it ‘allowed Iran to continue enriching uranium and, over time, reach the brink of a nuclear breakout.’ The JCPOA allowed Iran to sell oil, provided waivers allowing third countries to help Iran build out its nuclear program, and included the termination of United Nations sanctions on the regime.”
    . . .
    “Tragically, the Biden administration systematically undid that pressure, functionally re-implementing the nuclear deal. They immediately rescinded your decision to reimpose U.N. sanctions, allowed Iran to sell oil at JCPOA-levels, and even re-issued waivers allowing Iran to build out its nuclear program. As you predicted, those policies indeed allowed Iran to reach the brink of nuclear breakout, which is where they are today.” 
    . . .
    “We cannot afford another agreement that enables Iran to play for time, as the JCPOA did. The Iranian regime should know that the administration has Congressional backing to ensure their ability to enrich uranium is permanently eliminated.
    “As always we stand ready to provide you and your administration whatever resources you need to advance American national security interests.”
    Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), John Curtis (R-Utah), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Shelly Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) also signed the letter.
    Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: In Berlin, broad backing for UN peacekeeping as global threats mount

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    By Vibhu Mishra

    More than 130 countries and international partners threw their weight behind UN peacekeeping at a high-level ministerial summit in Berlin on Wednesday, pledging military, tech and political support.

    UN Secretary-General António Guterres meanwhile warned that peace operations are under growing strain and must adapt to meet today’s rising threats.

    The two-day conference on peacekeeping, hosted by the Government of Germany, brought together over 1,000 participants – including defence and foreign ministers – to reaffirm commitment to the UN’s flagship tool for maintaining peace and stability.

    It concluded on Wednesday with a wide array of pledges, including 88 military and police units, specialized training, and investments in emerging technologies and strategic communications.

    Difference between life and death

    “In trouble spots around the world, ‘blue helmets’ can mean the difference between life and death,” Mr. Guterres said in his opening remarks.

    “Now more than ever, the world needs the United Nations. And the United Nations needs peacekeeping that is fully equipped for today’s realities and tomorrow’s challenges.”

    Germany, which currently contributes troops to UN missions in South Sudan, Lebanon, and Western Sahara, announced €82 million (around $91.7 million) in funding, along with commitments in training, renewable energy solutions and drone technology.

    “Germany continues to be a steadfast supporter of UN peacekeeping,” said Defense Minister Boris Pistorius.

    Broad and diverse commitments

    A total of 74 UN Member States made specific pledges, ranging from uniformed personnel to training and strategic support.

    This includes pledges which will bolster military and police units, including airlift and rapid deployment capabilities (53 national contributions), specialized training (59), technological enhancements (18), advancing the Women, Peace and Security Agenda (38) and safety and protection (16).

    Eleven countries also committed to improving accountability and conduct, including support to the trust fund for victims of sexual exploitation and abuse, and eight nations supporting the UN’s efforts to counter mis- and disinformation through strategic communications.

    Mounting pressures

    At a press conference following the meeting, Secretary-General Guterres acknowledged that peacekeepers operate in an increasingly complex and dangerous environment, citing a record number of global conflicts, the targeting of peacekeepers by drones and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and the rising threat from disinformation campaigns.

    “We need to ask some tough questions about the mandates guiding these operations, and what the outcomes and solutions should look like,” he said, speaking alongside German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and Defence Minister Pistorius.

    “Every context is different, and missions must be adapted accordingly.”

    The UN chief also stressed the importance of sustained financial backing, highlighting that many missions continue to struggle with cash flow shortages due to delayed payments from Member States.

    “It is absolutely essential that all Member States respect their financial obligations, paying their contributions in full and on time,” he said.

    Crucial reforms

    The Berlin meeting feeds into the UN’s broader reform efforts, including an ongoing Review of Peace Operations announced in last year’s Pact for the Future, aimed at making peacekeeping and peace enforcement more flexible, cost-effective, and aligned with real-world needs.

    This year’s Ministerial also coincides with the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and the 10-year anniversary of the 2015 New York Summit on Peacekeeping. It follows similar high-level meetings in Accra, Seoul, Vancouver and London.

    Peacekeeping remains one of the UN’s most visible activities, with over 61,000 uniformed personnel from 119 countries currently deployed across 11 missions, supported by more than 7,000 civilian staff.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Graham Welcomes Qatar Airways’ Investment in Boeing’s South Carolina Workforce

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today made this statement after Qatar Airways announced the purchase of up to 210 American-made Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 777x aircraft. This is the largest ever order of Boeing 787 jets and will proudly be assembled in Charleston, South Carolina.
    “This is great news for South Carolina and Boeing. The operative phrase is ‘largest ever.’ Today’s announcement marks Boeing’s largest ever widebody order, its largest 787 order and Qatar Airways’ largest order ever.
    “Qatar Airways’ purchase will ensure the Charleston plant has work for many years to come and it is a validation of the work product coming from the Charleston Boeing facility. The Boeing workforce in South Carolina has a lot to be proud of – they consistently work hard and provide great airplanes.
    “I appreciate our allies in Qatar for making this investment in Boeing aircraft and I appreciate everything the Trump Administration has done to make this possible. This is truly a gamechanger for Boeing and South Carolina.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Treasury Secretary Bessent Defends Tax Breaks for those who Invest in China

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Our tax system allows for lower tax rates for capital gains on stocks to incentivize Americans to make investments that grow our economy. Yet, Americans who invest in companies abroad and build the economies of other nations – even in adversarial nations such as China – are still able to receive this preferential tax treatment. Meanwhile, China provides preferential tax treatment to investments in China, but not those made in the United States. 

    At a recent hearing with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, I asked him a few simple questions: Can you think of a reason why the American tax code should provide enormous tax benefits like the capital gains allowance to Americans who invest in Chinese stocks? Don’t we prefer American capital to be invested in America?

    To which he replied that while he would never bet against America, those that do, can and should be able to receive tax benefits.

    In January, President Trump signed an executive order calling for an America First Trade Policy, but apparently that means America First so long as those who send our capital to China get massive tax breaks.

    “The American people deserve a tax code that puts our workers, our industries, and our national interest ahead of foreign profits,” said Congressman Brad Sherman. “If the Trump Administration is serious about an “America First” agenda, it should start by ending tax breaks for those who ship capital—and opportunity—to China.”

    Rewarding U.S. investors who invest in Chinese companies that may compete with or even threaten U.S. industries is not strategic. It’s not pro-worker. And it’s certainly not America First.

    Last Congress, I introduced the bipartisan No Capital Gains Allowance for American Adversaries Act, which would eliminate the capital gains tax break for investments in companies based in China, Russia, Belarus, Iran, and North Korea. It would also eliminate a related tax break, the “step-up in basis” at death, for investments in such companies, and would direct the SEC to require disclosure that no tax breaks are available for these stocks. I plan to re-introduce this bill this Congress.

    Watch my exchange – Here.

     

    See a partial transcript – Here. 

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: MATTR Announces First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mattr Corp. (“Mattr” or the “Company”) (TSX: MATR) reported today its operational and financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025. This press release should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Management Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) and interim consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2025, which are available on the Company’s website and at www.sedarplus.com.

    Highlights include1:

    • On January 2, 2025, the Company completed its acquisition of AmerCable® Incorporated (“AmerCable”), a U.S. manufacturer of highly engineered wire and cable solutions for the net purchase price of US$283 million, equivalent to approximately CAD $407 million based on the USD-CAD exchange rate as of December 31, 2024 which includes the contractual purchase price, initial working capital adjustments, and US$19.3 million of cash in the business. This transaction is still subject to final net working capital adjustments. AmerCable is now reported under the Company’s Connection Technologies segment;
    • On a consolidated basis (including Continuing Operations and Discontinued Operations), Mattr reported revenue of $343 million, net income of $53 million, Adjusted EBITDA2 of $54 million, diluted Earnings Per Share (“EPS”) of 0.84 and diluted Adjusted EPS2 of $0.34. Results are inclusive of Modernization, Expansion and Optimization (“MEO”)2 costs of $2.7 million incurred during the quarter;
    • During the first quarter of 2025, Mattr’s Continuing Operations (including AmerCable) delivered revenue of $320 million, operating income of $18 million and Adjusted EBITDA of $47 million, an 80% increase compared to the first quarter of 2024;
    • The Connection Technologies segment’s first quarter revenue increased by 106% to $187 million compared to $91 million in the prior year’s quarter. Operating income increased by 24% to $18 million compared to $15 million in the prior year’s quarter and Adjusted EBITDA from the segment was $30 million, a 73% increase compared to the first quarter of 2024;
    • The Composite Technologies segment’s first quarter revenue increased by 11% to $133 million compared to $119 million in the prior year’s quarter. Operating income increased by 219% to $13 million compared to $4 million in the prior year’s quarter and Adjusted EBITDA from the segment was $21 million, a 40% increase compared to the first quarter of 2024;
    • During the first quarter of 2025, Discontinued Operations generated revenue of $23 million, operating income of $7 million and Adjusted EBITDA of $7 million; and
    • During the first quarter of 2025, the Company committed $11.6 million to new capital expenditures while outlaying approximately $24.1 million in cash, including previously accrued amounts, to support long-term growth in its Composite Technologies and Connection Technologies segments. The Company also repurchased approximately 1.0 million of its common shares for a total repurchase price of $11 million under its normal course issuer bid (“NCIB”). Subsequent to the quarter and as of April 30, 2025, the Company has repurchased 313,800 shares for an aggregate repurchase price of approximately $3.0 million.

    ______________________________
    1. The Company’s consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2025, report Continuing Operations as the Company’s Composite Technologies and Connection Technologies reporting segments and Financial and Corporate. Discontinued Operations include Company’s Thermotite business, its final remaining pipe coating business. Total consolidated figures include figures from both Continuing Operations and Discontinued Operations
    2. Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, and Adjusted EPS are non-GAAP measures. MEO costs is a supplementary financial measure. Non-GAAP measures and supplementary financial measures do not have standardized meanings prescribed by GAAP and are not necessarily comparable to similar measures provided by other companies. See “Section 5.0 – Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures” for further details and a reconciliation of these non-GAAP measures.

    “The first quarter of 2025 saw Mattr leverage its unique product portfolio to deliver strong business performance despite geopolitically driven uncertainty across many end markets,” said Mike Reeves, Mattr’s President & CEO. “With customer adoption of recently released technologies accelerating, robust performance from AmerCable in its first quarter as a Mattr brand, and newly established manufacturing facilities operating at improved levels of efficiency, Q1 saw meaningful year-over-year expansion of both revenue and Adjusted EBITDA generation within both operating segments.”

    “Mattr benefitted modestly during the first quarter from acceleration of purchasing decisions by some customers ahead of early April US tariff announcements.  While Mattr’s own USMCA compliant products were not directly impacted by these announcements, the uncertain outlook for global trade and macro-economic conditions has undoubtedly impacted customer confidence across much of the critical infrastructure landscape. Consequently, the Company currently expects demand for its products during the second quarter of 2025, and likely beyond, will be unfavorably impacted.  While the full year business impact remains unclear, we currently anticipate the second quarter of 2025 will see Mattr’s revenue and Adjusted EBITDA move lower sequentially.”

    Mr. Reeves continued, “While the Company cannot control the business environment within which it operates, in recent history the talented teams across our organization have proven nimble, resilient and cost-conscious in the face of challenging conditions.  As demonstrated by our first quarter performance, Mattr’s technology driven products, differentiated positioning in key markets, strong customer value proposition and rebalanced, modernized manufacturing footprint create the opportunity for market outperformance, regardless of prevailing conditions.”

    Mr. Reeves concluded, “Our hard-earned balance sheet strength enables Mattr to navigate market uncertainties with confidence, remaining committed to technology development, to enhancing cost and operational efficiency across the organization, to extracting commercial synergies from our newly expanded wire and cable portfolio and to creating long-term value for our shareholders, including via additional accretive acquisitions and the continued repurchase of shares under our NCIB.”

    Selected Financial Highlights    
           
        Three Months Ended
        March 31,
        2025   2024    
      (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts and percentages) $ % $   %
      Revenue 320,120   210,039    
      Gross Profit 83,618 26% 59,768   28%
      Operating Income from Continuing Operations (a) 18,441 6% 4,029   2%
      Net Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations 48,069   (2,145 )  
      Net Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations 4,657   (3,494 )  
      Net Income (Loss) for the period 52,726   (5,639 )  
      Earnings per share:          
      Basic 0.84   (0.09 )  
      Diluted 0.84   (0.09 )  
      Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations (b) 46,554 15% 25,827   12%
      Adjusted EBITDA from Discontinued Operations (b) 7,477 32% 4,242   29%
      Total Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA from Operations (b) 54,031 16% 30,069   13%
      Total Consolidated Adjusted EPS from Operations (b)          
      Basic 0.34   0.16    
      Diluted 0.34   0.16    
    (a) Operating income for the three months ended March 31, 2025, includes no restructuring costs and other net, while operating loss for the three months ended March 31, 2024, includes $3.2 million restructuring costs and other net.
    (b) Adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margins and Adjusted EPS are non-GAAP measures. Non-GAAP measures do not have standardized meanings under GAAP and are not necessarily comparable to similar measures provided by other companies. See “Section 5.0 – Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures” for further details and a reconciliation of these non-GAAP measures.
       

    1.0 FIRST QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS

    On January 2, 2025, the Company, through its subsidiary, successfully completed the acquisition of AmerCable, a U.S.-based manufacturer of highly engineered wire and cable solutions, from Nexans USA Inc. AmerCable has been incorporated into Mattr’s Connection Technologies segment, which is now the largest segment in its portfolio. The Company paid US$283 million, equivalent to approximately CAD $407 million based on the USD-CAD exchange rate as of December 31, 2024 which includes the contractual purchase price, initial working capital adjustments, and US$19.3 million of cash in the business. The final working capital adjustment is anticipated to be completed during the second half of the year.

    During the first quarter of 2025, the Company delivered $320.1 million in revenue from Continuing Operations, a $110.1 million or a 52.4% increase from the same quarter of 2024. The Company’s operating income from Continuing Operations in the first quarter of 2025 was $18.4 million, an increase of $14.4 million, or 357.7%, compared to the first quarter of 2024. Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations was $46.6 million during the first quarter of 2025, an increase of $20.7 million, or 80.3%, compared to the first quarter of 2024. These favorable movements as compared to the prior year period were driven by the addition of AmerCable and strong performance across most business lines, despite the economic uncertainties arising from tariff announcements.

    The first quarter of 2025 results include $9.5 million in costs associated with the acquisition of AmerCable including the impact of $4.2 million of costs related to the non-cash inventory fair value adjustment, which was part of AmerCable purchase price allocation accounting. The Company’s financial results in the first quarter of 2025 also include the impact of $2.7 million in MEO costs related to the Company’s ongoing MEO strategy and is similar to the $2.7 million of MEO costs recorded in the first quarter of 2024. Additionally, the Company recorded a recovery of $2.2 million in share-based incentive compensation against operating income from Continuing Operations during the first quarter of 2025 driven by the change in the Company’s share price. Comparatively, operating income from Continuing Operations in the prior year’s first quarter included an expense of $7.6 million in share-based incentive compensation.

    As at March 31, 2025, the Company had cash and cash equivalents totaling $52.7 million, a decrease from $502.5 million as at December 31, 2024 which included restricted cash. The decrease in cash compared to the year-end 2024 was largely attributable to closing and funding the AmerCable acquisition during the quarter.

    Selected Segment Financial Highlights        
             
        Three Months Ended
        March 31,
        2025       2024    
      (in thousands of Canadian dollars) $     % $   %
      Revenue              
      Connection Technologies 187,346       90,757    
      Composite Technologies 132,774       119,282    
      Revenue from Continuing Operations 320,120       210,039    
      Revenue from Discontinued Operations 23,301       14,422    
      Operating Income (Loss)              
      Connection Technologies 18,041     10% 14,543   16%
      Composite Technologies 12,807     10% 4,017   3%
      Financial and Corporate (12,407 )     (14,531 )  
      Operating Income from Continuing Operations 18,441       4,029    
      Operating Income from Discontinued Operations 7,493       3,696    
      Adjusted EBITDA (a)              
      Connection Technologies 30,461     16% 17,617   19%
      Composite Technologies 21,038     16% 15,008   13%
      Financial and Corporate (4,945 )     (6,798 )  
      Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations (a) 46,554     15% 25,827   12%
      Adjusted EBITDA from Discontinued Operations (a) 7,477     32% 4,242   29%
    a) Adjusted EBITDA is non-GAAP measures. Non-GAAP measures do not have standardized meanings under GAAP and are not necessarily comparable to similar measures provided by other companies. See “Section 5.0 – Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures” for further details and a reconciliation of these non-GAAP measures.
       

    The Connection Technologies segment now includes the Company’s Shawflex, AmerCable and DSG-Canusa business lines, and delivered revenue of $187.3 million in the first quarter of 2025, a new first quarter record and an increase of $96.6 million when compared to the first quarter of 2024. Its operating income in the first quarter of 2025 was $18.0 million compared to $14.5 million in the first quarter of 2024. The segment delivered Adjusted EBITDA of $30.5 million during the first quarter of 2025, a $12.8 million increase versus the prior year quarter. This was the first quarter the Company’s business included AmerCable’s financial results, which significantly contributed to the increased financial performance in the Connection Technologies segment as compared to the first quarter of 2024. The AmerCable business line contributed strong performance across its end markets in the first quarter of 2025, particularly the mining sector. The Connection Technologies segment results include a $4.2 million impact from non-cash inventory fair value adjustment as part of AmerCable purchase price allocation accounting, which is added back for Adjusted EBITDA purposes. The segment successfully completed all expected first-quarter AmerCable business onboarding activities.

    Consolidated revenue generation in the segment’s wire and cable businesses (Shawflex and AmerCable) was strongly favorable compared to the prior year, driven primarily by increases in the mining, energy and industrial sectors, partially offset by weaker sales into infrastructure applications, driven by customer project timing.

    DSG-Canusa revenue increased marginally compared to the prior year period, primarily driven by higher sales into automotive end markets in North America as the Company gained market share despite a backdrop of reduced global automotive production during the quarter.

    Year-over-year increases in segment operating income and Adjusted EBITDA were primarily driven by the addition of AmerCable, partially offset by $2.7 million of non-capitalizable MEO costs associated with the bifurcation and relocation of its North American footprint. This compares to $0.4 million of MEO cost recognized in the prior year period.

    The Composite Technologies segment contains the Company’s Flexpipe® and Xerxes® business lines and delivered revenue of $132.8 million in the first quarter of 2025, an increase of $13.5 million, or 11.3%, compared to the first quarter of 2024. Operating income for the segment in the first quarter of 2025 was $12.8 million, an $8.8 million increase from the $4.0 million reported in the first quarter of 2024.

    North American Flexpipe revenue increased compared to the same period in the prior year, despite significantly reduced North American completion activity, as the Company continued to secure new customers and further penetrate the large diameter product market. The business also benefitted from some customers accelerating purchases ahead of potential tariff announcements. International revenue was lower year-over-year, primarily due to the timing of orders and deliveries, with the prior-year period benefiting from a significant shipment to the Middle East.

    Within Xerxes, first-quarter revenue exceeded the prior-year period, primarily driven by increased sales of Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) tanks for retail fuel applications and Hydrochain products for storm water management applications.

    Adjusted EBITDA for the Composite Technologies segment in the first quarter of 2025 was $21.0 million, an increase of $6.0 million from the $15.0 million reported in the first quarter of 2024. This increase was primarily driven by higher gross profit resulting from increased revenue. This was partially offset by a slight decline in gross margin, reflecting a change in product mix and increased freight expenses associated with pre-emptive relocation of inventory into the U.S. to mitigate potential tariff impacts. The segment did not incur any non-capitalizable MEO costs in the first quarter of 2025, as the new production facilities for Flexpipe and Xerxes were fully set up and operational, compared to $2.3 million of MEO costs incurred during the first quarter of 2024 for the setup of these production sites.

    Discontinued Operations generated revenue of $23.3 million and $7.5 million of Adjusted EBITDA during the first quarter of 2025 compared to $14.4 million in revenue and $4.2 million of Adjusted EBITDA during the first quarter of 2024.

    2.0 OUTLOOK

    The Company acknowledges that extreme uncertainty exists regarding the magnitude and duration of tariffs impacting the movement of goods between the US and other countries, and the business and economic consequences arising from such tariffs. The Company currently manufactures products in the US and/or Canada that are sold cross-border in all of its business units and imports raw materials and component parts for the production of its products. The Company also sources raw materials from other countries that are currently subject to or may in the future become subject to tariffs by the United States government. The Company continues to diversify its supply chain and has secured sources based in several different countries for a majority of its raw material needs. The Company remains vigilant and prepared to take additional mitigation actions as needed, including raising the selling prices of its products where necessary and permitted under its contractual arrangements. The related economic uncertainty may also cause customers to pause or cancel investment decisions, which could impact overall near-term demand for the Company’s products in certain end markets. The outlook below includes the Company’s current visibility of the potential impact of tariffs. Despite near and medium term geopolitical and macroeconomic challenges, the Company remains positive on the long-term outlook and macro drivers for its products.

    • The Company has largely completed its disposition of non-core assets and the modernization, expansion and optimization of its North American production network, with the remaining sale of its Brazilian pipe coating business expected to close around mid 2025 and the relocation of its Shawflex manufacturing site expected to be completed at the end of the second quarter of 2025.  MEO costs are expected to be $5 to $7 million in the second quarter and will mark the completion of the MEO expense recognition program by the Company. Consequently, over the course of 2025, Mattr is expected to return to more normalized operations, with a primary focus on delivering value from its restructured operational footprint while also ensuring full integration and optimization of AmerCable following its acquisition.
    • The Company currently anticipates revenue and Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations in the second quarter of the year to fall below the first quarter of 2025, including the recognition of MEO costs during the second quarter within its Connection Technologies segment. The Company observed some accelerated customer purchasing activity during the first quarter – primarily in its Flexpipe business – as a result of tariff uncertainty, and amid this uncertainty, the Company currently anticipates some customer purchasing decisions in the second quarter and beyond may be delayed or reduced.
    • The Company currently anticipates sales from its Xerxes fuel and water products in the second quarter of 2025 will rise modestly compared to the first quarter as conditions become more favorable for underground installation activity. Production efficiency from the business’s recently established South Carolina site is expected to evolve favorably over the remainder of 2025.
    • The Company currently anticipates sales of its Flexpipe products in the second quarter of 2025 will be lower than the first quarter, as modestly higher international shipments and continued North American market share gains are likely offset by further reductions in North American completion activity, driven by tariff uncertainty and lower oil prices. Production efficiency from the business’s recently established Texas site is expected to evolve favorably over the remainder of 2025.
    • The Company currently anticipates sales of its DSG-Canusa products in the second quarter of 2025 will be similar to the first quarter, as lower activity from its automotive customers is expected to be offset by new customer capture and new product introduction. The production efficiency from the business’s recently established Ohio site is expected to evolve favorably over the remaining course of 2025.
    • The Company currently anticipates sales of Shawflex and AmerCable wire and cable products in the second quarter of 2025 will decline compared to the first quarter, driven primarily by lower deliveries into specific industrial, mining and energy applications, partially offset by higher deliveries into infrastructure applications. The timing of specific deliveries within the AmerCable business drove a particularly strong result during the first quarter, which is still expected to be the strongest quarter of 2025 for this business. Copper price volatility has also increased since the start of the year and is being closely monitored to ensure the impacts arising from any rapid movements are minimized.
    • The Company has successfully leveraged Shawflex resources to secure early confirmation of US and Canadian customer appetite to utilize AmerCable’s medium voltage products in specific industrial applications and continues to anticipate initial, modest benefits from these expected industrial sector commercial synergies will commence in the second half of 2025. Key AmerCable related factors impacting Connection Technology segment results to date, and going forward, include:
      • The Company incurred approximately $1 million of non-routine onboarding expenses related to the acquisition of AmerCable in the first quarter, and expects additional expenses of up to $4 million over the remainder of 2025. These costs are added back for the calculation of  Adjusted EBITDA.
      • The revaluation of AmerCable’s inventory to fair value as part of the purchase price allocation accounting is expected to temporarily lower gross margins in the first half of the year as the inventory is sold. These costs are added back for the calculation of  Adjusted EBITDA.
      • The recognition of intangible assets, including goodwill, customer relationships and trade names as part of the AmerCable purchase price allocation accounting and the corresponding amortization of these assets will impact reported earnings. However, these are non-cash expenses and do not impact the Company’s underlying operational performance or cash flow.
    • While the Company expects to maintain its “all of the above” approach to capital allocation, with the acquisition of AmerCable and the majority of its large organic MEO projects completed, the Company’s capital deployment in 2025 is expected to focus more heavily on debt repayment and activity under its NCIB.  The Company currently anticipates total full year capital expenditures will be $60-$70 million, with approximately $15 million of such amount allocated to maintenance capital, and the remaining amounts allocated to growth projects, including completion of the remaining MEO projects. Given the elevated geopolitical uncertainty, the Company continues to evaluate market conditions and remains prepared to adjust its capital program and spend as needed.
    • The Company has moved above its normal net-debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA ratio target of 2.0 times, including leases, as a result of its acquisition of AmerCable. Through prioritization of debt repayment, the Company currently expects to move back below its normal target ratio within 12 to 18 months of the acquisition date.

    3.0 CONFERENCE CALL AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

    Mattr will be hosting a Shareholder and Analyst Conference Call and Webcast on Thursday, May 15th, 2025 at 9:00 AM ET, which will discuss the Company’s First Quarter 2025 Financial Results. To participate via telephone, please register at https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI28b49f607d3649d1b1fc5343ae8247b0 and a telephone number and pin will be provided.

    Alternatively, please go to the following website address to participate via webcast: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/gd2jsma9. The webcast recording will be available within 24 hours of the live presentation and will be accessible for 90 days.

    About Mattr

    Mattr is a growth-oriented, global materials technology company broadly serving critical infrastructure markets, including transportation, communication, water management, energy and electrification. The Company operates through a network of fixed manufacturing facilities. Its two business segments, Composite Technologies and Connection Technologies, enable responsible renewal and enhancement of critical infrastructure.

    For further information, please contact:

    Meghan MacEachern
    VP, Investor Relations & External Communications
    Tel: 437-341-1848
    Email: meghan.maceachern@mattr.com
    Website: www.mattr.com

    Source: Mattr Corp.
    Mattr.ER

    4.0 FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

    This news release includes certain statements that reflect management’s expectations and objectives for the Company’s future performance, opportunities and growth, which statements constitute “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively “forward-looking information”) under applicable securities laws. Such statements, other than statements of historical fact, are predictive in nature or depend on future events or conditions. Forward-looking information involves estimates, assumptions, judgements and uncertainties. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “believe”, “predict”, “estimate”, “continue”, “intend”, “plan” and variations of these words or other similar expressions.

    Specifically, this news release includes forward-looking in-formation in the Outlook Section and elsewhere in respect of, among other things: the ability of the Company to deliver higher returns to all shareholders; the Company’s ability to deliver customer and shareholder value expansion; the expected timing for the closing of the sale of Thermotite; the gross sale proceeds of the sale of Thermotite; the anticipated timing for the final working capital adjustment for the AmerCable acquisition; the expected timing of the relocation of the Shawflex manufacturing site; the expected amount of MEO costs to be incurred in the second quarter of 2025; the expected completion of the MEO expense recognition program; the return to more normalized operations in the remainder of 2025; the decline in consolidated revenue and Adjusted EBITDA in the second quarter of 2025; the anticipated customer purchasing decisions in the second quarter of 2025 and beyond; the impact of tariffs implemented by the U.S. administration, including on the demand for the Company’s products in the second quarter of 2025 and beyond; increased sales from Xerxes fuel and water products in the second quarter of 2025; sales of Flexpipe products in the second quarter of 2025; the volume of sales of Shawflex, AmerCable and DSG-Canusa products in the second quarter of 2025; the impact of new DSG-Canusa product introduction; the impact of lower activity of automotive customers; the level of efficiency in the Company’s recently established production facilities, including the Xerxes South Carolina facility, the Flexpipe Texas facility, and the DSG-Canusa Ohio facility; the Company’s approach to capital allocation and expected capital deployment, including debt repayment and activity under the Company’s normal course issuer bid (“NCIB”).

    Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted by the forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information as a number of factors could cause actual events, results and prospects to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by the forward-looking information. Significant risks facing the Company include but are not limited to the risks and uncertainties described in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis under “Risks and Uncertainties” and in the Company’s Annual Information Form (“AIF”) under “Risk Factors”.

    These statements of forward-looking information are based on assumptions, estimates and analysis made by management in light of its experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments as well as other factors believed to be reasonable and relevant in the circumstances. These assumptions include those in respect of: the scale and duration of North American trade tariffs; expectations for demand for the Company’s products; sales trends for the Company’s products; North American onshore oilfield customer spending; the Company’s ability to increase efficiency in its newly established manufacturing facilities; the effectiveness of modernization, expansion and optimization efforts; the Company’s cash flow generation and growth outlook; activity levels across the Company’s business segments; the Company’s ability to manage supply chain disruptions and other business impacts caused by, among other things, current or future geopolitical events, conflicts, or disruptions, such as the conflict in Ukraine and related sanctions on Russia; the impact of the Russia and Ukraine conflict on the Company’s demand for products and the strength of its and its customers supply chains; the current Israel-Palestine conflict; the impact of changing interest rates and levels of inflation; regular, seasonal impacts on the Company’s businesses, including in the fiberglass reinforced plastic (“FRP”) tanks business and composite pipe business; expectations regarding the Company’s ability to attract new customers and develop and maintain relationships with existing customers; the continued availability of funding required to meet the Company’s anticipated operating and capital expenditure requirements over time; consistent competitive intensity in the business in which the Company operates; no significant or unexpected legal or regulatory developments, other shifts in economic conditions, or macro changes in the competitive environment affecting the Company’s business activities; key interest rates remaining relatively stable through the remainder of 2025; the accuracy of the forecast data from the Company’s North American convenience store customers; the accuracy of market indicators in determining industry health for AmerCable’s products, such as commodity prices, housing starts, and GDP; the impact of federal stimulus packages in the Connection Technologies reporting segment; heightened demand for electric and hybrid vehicles and for electronic content within those vehicles particularly in the Asia Pacific, Europe and Africa regions; heightened infrastructure spending in Canada, including in respect of commercial and municipal water projects, nuclear plant refurbishment and upgraded communication and transportation networks, communication networks and nuclear refurbishments; sustained health of oil and gas producers; the continued global need to renew and expand critical infrastructure, including energy generation and distribution, electrification, transportation network enhancement and storm management; the Company’s ability to execute projects under contract; the Company’s continuing ability to provide new and enhanced product offerings to its customers; that the Company will identify and successfully execute on opportunities for acquisitions or investments; the higher level of investment in working capital by the Company; the easing of supply chain shortages and the continued supply of and stable pricing or the ability to pass on higher prices to the Company’s customers for commodities used by the Company; the availability of personnel resources sufficient for the Company to operate its businesses; the maintenance of operations by the Company in major oil and gas producing regions; the adequacy of the Company’s existing accruals in respect of environmental compliance and in respect of litigation and tax matters and other claims generally; the impact of adoption of artificial intelligence and other machine learning on competition in the industries which the Company operates; the Company’s ability to meet its financial objectives; the ability of the Company to satisfy all covenants under its Credit Facility (as defined herein) and other debt obligations and having sufficient liquidity to fund its obligations and planned initiatives; and the availability, commercial viability and scalability of the Company’s greenhouse gas emission reduction strategies and related technology and products, and the anticipated costs and impacts on the Company’s operations and financial results of adopting these technologies or strategies. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are based on reasonable assumptions in light of currently available information. However, should one or more risks materialize, or should any assumptions prove incorrect, then actual results could vary materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking information included in this news release and the Company can give no assurance that such expectations will be achieved.

    When considering the forward-looking information in making decisions with respect to the Company, readers should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. The Company does not assume the obligation to revise or update forward-looking information after the date of this news release or to revise it to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

    To the extent any forward-looking information in this news release constitutes future oriented financial information or financial outlooks, within the meaning of securities laws, such information is being provided to demonstrate the potential of the Company and readers are cautioned that this information may not be appropriate for any other purpose. Future oriented financial information and financial outlooks, as with forward-looking information generally, are based on the assumptions and subject to the risks noted above.

    5.0 RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP MEASURES

    The Company reports on certain non-GAAP and other financial measures that are used to evaluate its performance and segments, as well as to determine compliance with debt covenants and to manage its capital structure. These non-GAAP and other financial measures do not have standardized meanings under IFRS and are not necessarily comparable to similar measures provided by other companies. The Company discloses these measures because it believes that they provide further information and assist readers in understanding the results of the Company’s operations and financial position. These measures should not be considered in isolation or used in substitution for other measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. The following is a reconciliation of the non-GAAP measures reported by the Company.  

    EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

    EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure defined as earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is also a non-GAAP measure defined as EBITDA adjusted for items which do not impact day to day operations. Adjusted EBITDA is calculated by adding back to EBITDA the sum of impairments, costs associated with refinancing of long-term debt and credit facilities, gain on sale of land and other, gain on sale of investment in associates, gain on sale of operating unit, acquisition costs, restructuring costs, share-based incentive compensation cost, foreign exchange (gain) loss and other, net, hyperinflationary adjustments and the impact of transactions that are outside the Company’s normal course of business or day to day operations. The Company believes that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are useful supplemental measures that provide a meaningful indication of the Company’s results from principal business activities prior to the consideration of how these activities are financed or the tax impacts in various jurisdictions and for comparing its operating performance with the performance of other companies that have different financing, capital or tax structures. The Company presents Adjusted EBITDA as a measure of EBITDA that excludes the effect of transactions that fall outside the Company’s ordinary course of business or routine operations. Adjusted EBITDA is used by many analysts as one of several important analytical tools to evaluate financial performance and is a key metric in business valuations. It is also considered important by lenders to the Company and is included in the financial covenants of the Credit Facility.

        Three Months Ended  
          March 31,     March 31,  
      (in thousands of Canadian dollars)   2025     2024  
                   
      Net Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations $ 48,069   $ (2,145 )
                   
      Add:            
      Income tax expense   (38,858 )   3,948  
      Finance costs, net   9,230     2,226  
      Amortization of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets and ROU assets   16,883     8,568  
      EBITDA from Continuing Operations   35,324     12,597  
                   
      Share-based incentive compensation (recovery) cost   (2,192 )   7,632  
      Foreign exchange loss   3,907     2,397  
      Restructuring costs and other, net   —     3,201  
      Cost associated with acquisition (a)   5,320     —  
      Non-cash impact from inventory fair value adjustment (b)   4,195     —  
      Adjusted EBITDA from Continuing Operations $ 46,554   $ 25,827  
    a) Costs associated with the acquisition of AmerCable Incorporated.    
    b) Cost of goods sold impact from purchase price allocation accounting adjustment on acquired inventory from AmerCable acquisition.   
    Connection Technologies Segment      
           
        Three Months Ended
          March 31,     March 31,  
      (in thousands of Canadian dollars)   2025     2024  
                   
      Operating Income $ 18,041   $ 14,543  
                   
      Add:            
      Amortization of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets and ROU assets   7,619     1,722  
      EBITDA   25,660     16,265  
                   
      Share-based incentive compensation (recovery) cost   (368 )   1,319  
      Restructuring costs and other, net   —     33  
      Cost associated with acquisition (a)   974     —  
      Non-cash impact from inventory fair value adjustment (b)   4,195     —  
      Adjusted EBITDA $ 30,461   $ 17,617  
    a) Costs associated with the acquisition of AmerCable Incorporated.    
    b) Cost of goods sold impact from purchase price allocation accounting adjustment on acquired inventory from AmerCable acquisition. 
    Composite Technologies Segment      
             
        Three Months Ended
          March 31,     March 31,  
      (in thousands of Canadian dollars)   2025     2024  
                   
      Operating Income $ 12,807   $ 4,017  
                   
      Add:            
      Amortization of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets and ROU assets   8,667     6,371  
      EBITDA   21,474     10,388  
                   
      Share-based incentive compensation (recovery) cost   (436 )   1,452  
      Restructuring costs and other, net   —     3,168  
      Adjusted EBITDA $ 21,038   $ 15,008  
    Financial and Corporate      
           
        Three Months Ended  
          March 31,     March 31,  
      (in thousands of Canadian dollars)   2025     2024  
                   
      Operating Loss $ (12,407 ) $ (14,531 )
                   
      Add:            
      Cost associated with repayment and modification of long-term debt   —     —  
      Amortization of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets and ROU assets   597     475  
      EBITDA   (11,810 )   (14,056 )
                   
      Share-based incentive compensation (recovery) cost   (1,388 )   4,861  
      Foreign exchange loss   3,907     2,397  
      Cost associated with acquisition (a)   4,346     —  
      Adjusted EBITDA $ (4,945 ) $ (6,798 )
    a) Costs associated with the acquisition of AmerCable Incorporated.    
    Discontinued Operations      
             
        Three Months Ended  
          March 31,     March 31,  
      (in thousands of Canadian dollars)   2025     2024  
                   
      Net Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations $ 4,657   $ (3,494 )
                   
      Add:            
      Income tax (recovery) expense   2,998     1,869  
      Finance costs, net recovery   (162 )   (84 )
      Amortization of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets and ROU assets   —     428  
      EBITDA from Discontinued Operations   7,493     (1,281 )
                   
      Foreign exchange (gain) loss   (16 )   118  
      Loss on sale of operating unit and subsidiary   —     5,405  
      Adjusted EBITDA from Discontinued Operations $ 7,477   $ 4,242  
    Total Consolidated Mattr (Continuing and Discontinued Operations)    
             
        Three Months Ended  
          March 31,     March 31,  
      (in thousands of Canadian dollars)   2025     2024  
                   
      Net Income (Loss) $ 52,726   $ (5,639 )
                   
      Add:            
      Income tax expense   (35,860 )   5,817  
      Finance costs, net   9,068     2,142  
      Amortization of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets and ROU assets   16,883     8,996  
      EBITDA   42,817     11,316  
                   
      Share-based incentive compensation (recovery) cost   (2,192 )   7,632  
      Foreign exchange loss   3,891     2,515  
      Loss on sale of operating unit and subsidiary   —     5,405  
      Restructuring costs and other, net   —     3,201  
      Cost associated with acquisition (a)   5,320     —  
      Non-cash impact from inventory fair value adjustment (b)   4,195     —  
      Adjusted EBITDA $ 54,031   $ 30,069  
    a) Costs associated with the acquisition of AmerCable Incorporated.    
    b) Cost of goods sold impact from purchase price allocation accounting adjustment on acquired inventory from AmerCable acquisition.    
           

    Adjusted EBITDA Margin

    Adjusted EBITDA margin is defined as Adjusted EBITDA divided by revenue and is a non-GAAP measure. The Company believes that Adjusted EBITDA margin is a useful supplemental measure that provides meaningful assessment of the business results of the Company and its Operating Segments from principal business activities excluding the impact of transactions that are outside of the Company’s normal course of business.

    See reconciliation above for the changes in composition of Adjusted EBITDA, as a result of which the table below reflects restated figures for the prior year quarter to align with the updated composition.

    Operating margin is defined as operating (loss) income divided by revenue and is a non-GAAP measure. The Company believes that operating margin is a useful supplemental measure that provides meaningful assessment of the business performance of the Company and its Operating Segments. The Company uses this measure as a key indicator of financial performance, operating efficiency and cost control based on volume of business generated.

    Adjusted Net Income (attributable to shareholders)

    Adjusted Net Income (attributable to shareholders) is a non-GAAP measure defined as Net Income (attributable to shareholders) adjusted for items which do not impact day to day operations. Adjusted Net Income (attributable to shareholders) is calculated by adding back to Net Income (attributable to shareholders)  the after tax impact of the sum of impairments, costs associated with refinancing of long-term debt and credit facilities, gain on sale of land and other, gain on sale of investment in associates, gain on sale of operating unit, acquisition costs, restructuring costs, share-based incentive compensation cost, foreign exchange (gain) loss and other, net and hyperinflationary adjustments. The Company believes that Adjusted Net Income (attributable to shareholders) is a useful supplemental measure that provides a meaningful indication of the Company’s results from principal business activities for comparing its operating performance with the performance of other companies that have different financing, capital or tax structures.

    Adjusted Earnings Per Share (“Adjusted EPS”)

    Adjusted EPS (basic) is a non-GAAP measure defined as Adjusted Net Income (attributable to shareholders) divided by the number of common shares outstanding. Adjusted EPS (diluted) is a non-GAAP measure defined as Adjusted Net Income (attributable to shareholders) divided by the number of common shares outstanding, further adjusted for potential dilutive impacts of outstanding securities which are convertible to common shares. The Company presents Adjusted EPS as a measure of Earning Per Share that excludes the impact of transactions that are outside the Company’s normal course of business or day to day operations. Adjusted EPS indicates the amount of Adjusted Net Income the Company makes for each share of its stock and is used by many analysts as one of several important analytical tools to evaluate financial performance and is a key metric in business valuations.

    Total Consolidated Mattr Adjusted EPS (Continuing and Discontinued Operations)      
                 
        Three Months Ended
     
        March 31, March 31,  
      (in thousands of Canadian dollars except for per share amounts) 2025 2024  
              Earnings Per Share       Earnings Per Share  
                                 
              Basic Diluted         Basic   Diluted  
      Total Consolidated Mattr Net Income (Loss)(a)  $ 52,726   0.84 0.84   $ (5,842 ) (0.09 ) (0.09 )
                                 
      Adjustments (before tax):                          
      Share-based incentive compensation (recovery) cost   (2,192 )         7,632          
      Foreign exchange loss   3,891           2,515          
      Loss on sale of operating unit and subsidiary   —           5,405          
      Restructuring costs and other, net   —           3,201          
      Cost associated with acquisition (b)   5,320           —          
      Non-cash impact from inventory fair value adjustment (c)   4,195           —          
      Tax effect of above adjustments   (1,499 )         (2,066 )        
      Tax impact of the AmerCable acquisition   (40,819 )         —          
      Total Consolidated Mattr Adjusted Net Income (non-GAAP) (a)  $ 21,622   0.34 0.34   $ 10,845   0.16   0.16  
    (a) Attributable to Shareholders of the Company.
    (b) One-time costs associated with the acquisition of AmerCable Incorporated.
    (c) One-time cost of goods sold impact from purchase price allocation accounting adjustment on acquired inventory from AmerCable acquisition.
       

    Total Net debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA

    Total Net debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure defined as the sum of long-term debt, current lease liabilities and long-term lease liabilities, less cash and cash equivalents (including restricted cash), divided by the Consolidated (Continuing and Discontinued Operations) Adjusted EBITDA, as defined above, for the trailing twelve-month period. The Company believes Total Net debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA is a useful supplementary measure to assess the borrowing capacity of the Company. Total Net debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA is used by many analysts as one of several important analytical tools to evaluate how long a company would need to operate at its current level to pay of all its debt. It is also considered important by credit rating agencies to determine the probability of a company defaulting on its debt.

    See discussion above for the changes into the composition of Adjusted EBITDA. The table below reflects restated figures for the prior year quarters to align with current presentation.

          March 31,   December 31  
      (in thousands of Canadian dollars except Net debt-to-EBITDA ratio)   2025     2024  
               
      Long-term debt $ 449,633   $ 471,238  
      Lease Liabilities   165,869     163,127  
      Cash and cash equivalents (and restricted cash)   (52,716 )   (502,490 )
      Total Net Debt   562,786     131,875  
               
      Q1 2024 Adjusted EBITDA   —     30,069  
      Q2 2024 Adjusted EBITDA   42,824     42,824  
      Q3 2024 Adjusted EBITDA   36,743     36,743  
      Q4 2024 Adjusted EBITDA   21,060     21,060  
      Q1 2025 Adjusted EBITDA   54,031     —  
      Trailing twelve-month Adjusted EBITDA $ 154,658   $ 130,696  
      Total Net debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA   3.64     1.01  


    Total Interest Coverage Ratio

    Total Interest Coverage Ratio is a non-GAAP measure defined as Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA (Continuing and Discontinued Operations), as defined above, for the trailing twelve-month period, divided by finance costs, net, for the trailing twelve-month period. The Company believes Total Interest Coverage Ratio is a useful supplementary measure to assess the Company’s ability to honor its debt payments. Total Interest Coverage Ratio is used by many analysts as one of several important analytical tools to judge a company’s ability to pay interest on its outstanding debt. It is also considered important by credit rating agencies to determine a company’s riskiness relative to its current debt or for future borrowing.

          March 31,   December 31  
      (in thousands of Canadian dollars except Net debt-to-EBITDA ratio)   2025     2024  
                   
      Q1 2024 Adjusted EBITDA $ —   $ 30,069  
      Q2 2024 Adjusted EBITDA   42,824     42,824  
      Q3 2024 Adjusted EBITDA   36,743     36,743  
      Q4 2024 Adjusted EBITDA   21,060     21,060  
      Q1 2025 Adjusted EBITDA   54,031     —  
      Trailing twelve-month Adjusted EBITDA $ 154,658   $ 130,696  
                   
      Q1 2024 Finance cost, net   —     2,142  
      Q2 2024 Finance cost, net   4,341     4,341  
      Q3 2024 Finance cost, net   4,804     4,804  
      Q4 2024 Finance cost, net   5,846     5,846  
      Q1 2025 Finance cost, net   9,068     —  
      Trailing twelve-month finance cost, net $ 24,059   $ 17,133  
      Total Interest Coverage Ratio   6.43     7.63  


    Modernization, Expansion and Optimization (“MEO”) Costs

    MEO costs is a supplementary financial measure. MEO costs not eligible for capitalization are reported as selling, general and administrative expenses or as cost of goods sold and incurred in support of the Company’s certain specific, planned capital investments into high-return growth and efficiency improvement opportunities. These include the following:

    • The replacement of the Company’s Rexdale facility in Toronto, Ontario and the expansion of its Connection Technologies segment’s North American manufacturing footprint through:
      • a new heat-shrink tubing production site in Fairfield, Ohio; and
      • a new wire and cable production site in Vaughan, Ontario.
    • The addition of two new manufacturing facilities and the elimination of aging manufacturing facilities within the Composite Technologies network, namely:
      • the shut-down and exit of aging production capabilities in the Xerxes FRP tank production site footprint;
      • a new Xerxes FRP tank production site in Blythewood, South Carolina;
      • a new Flexpipe composite pipe production site in Rockwall, Texas along with the co-located Hydrochain™ stormwater infiltration chamber production line.

    The Company considers these costs incremental to its normal operating base and would not have been incurred if these projects were not ongoing.

    6.0 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

    Additional information relating to the Company, including its AIF, is available on SEDAR+ at www. sedarplus.com and on the “Investors Centre” page of the Company’s website at: https://investors.Mattr.com/Investor-Center/default.aspx.

    Dated: May 14, 2025

    The MIL Network –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Snail, Inc. Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CULVER CITY, Calif., May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Snail, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNAL) (“Snail Games” or the “Company”), a leading global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment, today announced financial results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    First Quarter 2025 and Recent Operational Highlights

    ARK Franchise Updates:

    • ARK: Survival Evolved (“ASE”):
      • Units sold were approximately 690,775 for the first quarter 2025
      • Revealed teaser trailer for ARK: Aquatica, a new in-house developed downloadable content (“DLC”) expansion map for ASE
    • ARK: Survival Ascended (“ASA”):
      • Units sold were approximately 751,960 for the first quarter 2025
      • Launched the Astraeos Map as an Official Partner DLC for ASA
      • Revealed the official trailer for ARK: Lost Colony, the next DLC for ASA produced by Studio Wildcard
    • ARK: Ultimate Mobile Edition (“ARK Mobile”) :
      • Surpassed 4.8 million downloads as of March 31, 2025
      • Launched the Ragnarok expansion map and the Extinction map
      • In the three months ended March 31, 2025, average DAUs totaled 143,976

    Game Portfolio Updates:

    • Debuted teaser trailers for two in-house developed projects, Nine Yin Sutra: Wushu and Nine Yin Sutra: Immortal
    • Launched new trailers for upcoming games: For The Stars, Honeycomb: The World Beyond, Robots at Midnight, and Echoes of Elysium
    • Celebrated Bellwright’s one-year Early Access anniversary in April 2025 and introduced major update with significant content and player-requested features. Bellwright will be making its way to Xbox
    • Launched The Cecil: The Journey Begins and Chasmal Fear
    • Company indie publishing label, Wandering Wizards, acquired publishing rights to Whispers of West Grove

    Business Updates:

    • Company subsidiary Interactive Films LLC (“Interactive Films”) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MoU”) with Mega Matrix Inc. (“MPU”) for the joint development, production, and global distribution of short dramas

    Management Commentary

    Company co-Chief Executive Officer Tony Tian commented: “The first quarter saw sustained growth and strong engagement across our ARK franchise. Our ARK franchise had an increase in daily active users in the first quarter of 2025 of approximately 16%, up to 243,000 on the Steam and Epic platforms, when compared to the same period in 2024. We unveiled and released new maps and DLCs for ASE, ASA, and our mobile title, delivering fresh, immersive experiences that continue to expand the ARK universe and deepen player engagement. ARK: Ultimate Mobile Edition maintained strong momentum since launch last quarter, a promising indicator of our ongoing efforts to broaden ARK’s audience. The mobile platform removes hardware barriers, opening the franchise to a new and growing player base. In February, we participated in GDC, where we unveiled a series of new trailers, announcements, and upcoming content for the ARK franchise and our broader game portfolio.”

    “Next month marks a major milestone: the 10-year anniversary of ASE. This pivotal moment for Snail Games offers an opportunity to celebrate the franchise’s legacy and community. Beyond gaming, we also signed a MoU with Mega Matrix to co-develop at least 10 short dramas. In support of this initiative, we soft-launched Salty TV, our mobile short film platform, last quarter, which currently hosts 49 short dramas. We look forward to finalizing the agreement and working closely with the MPU team to deliver high-quality entertainment content. As we look to the remainder of 2025, our focus remains on expanding global reach, investing in scalable growth, commemorating ARK’s 10-year journey, and continuing to deliver innovative experiences that engage players and audiences across multiple platforms and genres.”

    First Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights

    Net revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2025, increased 42.5% to $20.1 million compared to $14.1 million in the same period last year. The increase was primarily due to an increase in total ARK sales of $2.7 million, an increase in ARK Mobile sales of $1.3 million that was driven by the release of ARK: Ultimate Mobile Edition, and the Company deferring $3.3 million less of its sales during the three months ended March 31, 2025 than it deferred in the same period last year, partially offset by a decrease in revenues related to other games of $1.6 million.

    Net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2025, was $(1.9) million compared to $(1.8) million in the same period last year; as a result of the aforementioned increase in net revenue offset by increases in the costs of revenues and operating expenses – a result of the Company’s increased headcount, research and development, and marketing expenses.

    Bookings for the three months ended March 31, 2025, increased 13.6% to $22.2 million compared to $19.6 million in the same period last year. The increase was primarily due to the releases of ARK: Survival Ascended DLC Astraeos in the first quarter of 2025, the releases of Bobs Tall Tales, and Bellwright in the latter quarters of 2024.

    Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) for the three months ended March 31, 2025, was $(3.2) million compared to $(1.9) million in the same period last year. The decrease was primarily due to an increase in benefit from income taxes of $1.0 million, a decrease in interest expense of $0.3 million, and an increase in net loss of $0.1 million, partially offset by a decrease in interest income and interest income – related parties of $0.1 million.

    As of March 31, 2025, unrestricted cash was $9.4 million compared to $7.3 million as of December 31, 2024.

    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    In addition to the financial results determined in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, Snail believes Bookings and EBITDA, as non-GAAP measures, are useful in evaluating its operating performance. Bookings and EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures that are presented as supplemental disclosures and should not be construed as alternatives to net income (loss) or revenue as indicators of operating performance, nor as alternatives to cash flow provided by operating activities as measures of liquidity, both as determined in accordance with GAAP. Snail supplementally presents Bookings and EBITDA because they are key operating measures used by management to assess financial performance. Bookings adjusts for the impact of deferrals and, Snail believes, provides a useful indicator of sales in a given period. EBITDA adjusts for items that Snail believes do not reflect the ongoing operating performance of its business, such as certain non-cash items, unusual or infrequent items or items that change from period to period without any material relevance to its operating performance. Management believes Bookings and EBITDA are useful to investors and analysts in highlighting trends in Snail’s operating performance, while other measures can differ significantly depending on long-term strategic decisions regarding capital structure, the tax jurisdictions in which Snail operates and capital investments.

    Bookings is defined as the net amount of products and services sold digitally or physically in the period. Bookings is equal to revenues, excluding the impact from deferrals. Below is a reconciliation of total net revenue to Bookings, the closest GAAP financial measure.

        Three months ended
    March 31,
        2025     2024
        (in millions)
    Total net revenue   $ 20.1     $ 14.1
    Change in deferred net revenue     2.1       5.5
    Bookings   $ 22.2     $ 19.6

    We define EBITDA as net loss before (i) interest expense, (ii) interest income, (iii) benefit from income taxes and (iv) depreciation expense. The following table provides a reconciliation from net loss to EBITDA:

        Three months ended March 31,
        2025     2024  
        (in millions)
    Net loss   $ (1.9 )   $ (1.8 )
    Interest income and interest income - related parties     –       (0.1 )
    Interest expense     0.1       0.4  
    Benefit from income taxes     (1.5 )     (0.5 )
    Depreciation expense     0.1       0.1  
    EBITDA   $ (3.2 )   $ (1.9 )

    Webcast Details

    The Company will host a webcast at 4:30 PM ET today to discuss the first quarter 2025 financial results. Participants may access the live webcast and replay via the link here or on the Company’s investor relations website at https://investor.snail.com/.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Many of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “expect,” “should,” “plan,” “intend,” “may,” “predict,” “continue,” “estimate” and “potential,” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements appear in a number of places in this press release and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding Snail’s intent, belief or current expectations. These forward-looking statements include information about possible or assumed future results of Snail’s business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, plans and objectives. The statements Snail makes regarding the following matters are forward-looking by their nature: growth prospects and strategies; launching new games and additional functionality to games that are commercially successful; expectations regarding significant drivers of future growth; its ability to retain and increase its player base and develop new video games and enhance existing games; competition from companies in a number of industries, including other casual game developers and publishers and both large and small, public and private Internet companies; its ability to attract and retain a qualified management team and other team members while controlling its labor costs; its relationships with third-party platforms such as Xbox Live and Game Pass, PlayStation Network, Steam, Epic Games Store, My Nintendo Store, the Apple App Store, the Google Play Store and the Amazon Appstore; the size of addressable markets, market share and market trends; its ability to successfully enter new markets and manage international expansion; protecting and developing its brand and intellectual property portfolio; costs associated with defending intellectual property infringement and other claims; future business development, results of operations and financial condition; the ongoing conflicts involving Russia and Ukraine, and Israel and Hamas, on its business and the global economy generally; actions in various countries, particularly in China and the United States, have created uncertainty with respect to tariff impacts on the costs of our merchandise and costs of development; rulings by courts or other governmental authorities; the Company’s current program to repurchase shares of its Class A common stock, including expectations regarding the timing and manner of repurchases made under this share repurchase program; its plans to pursue and successfully integrate strategic acquisitions; and assumptions underlying any of the foregoing.

    Further information on risks, uncertainties and other factors that could affect Snail’s financial results are included in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) from time to time, including its annual reports on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed, or to be filed, with the SEC. You should not rely on these forward-looking statements, as actual outcomes and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements as a result of such risks and uncertainties. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to Snail, and Snail does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements provided to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made.

    About Snail, Inc.

    Snail, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNAL) is a leading, global independent developer and publisher of interactive digital entertainment for consumers around the world, with a premier portfolio of premium games designed for use on a variety of platforms, including consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. For more information, please visit: https://snail.com/.

    Investor Contact:

    John Yi and Steven Shinmachi
    Gateway Group, Inc.
    949-574-3860
    SNAL@gateway-grp.com

    Snail, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 (Unaudited)


     
        March 31, 2025     December 31, 2024  
                 
    ASSETS                
                     
    Current Assets:                
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 9,359,116     $ 7,303,944  
    Accounts receivable, net of allowances for credit losses of $523,500 as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024     9,118,269       9,814,822  
    Accounts receivable – related party     1,332,867       2,336,274  
    Loan and interest receivable – related party     106,252       105,759  
    Prepaid expenses – related party     2,536,748       2,521,291  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets     1,468,062       1,846,024  
    Prepaid taxes     7,174,973       7,318,424  
    Total current assets     31,096,287       31,246,538  
                     
    Restricted cash and cash equivalents     935,000       935,000  
    Accounts receivable – related party, net of current portion     592       1,500,592  
    Prepaid expenses – related party, net of current portion     9,907,669       9,378,594  
    Property and equipment, net     4,310,448       4,378,352  
    Intangible assets, net     2,159,141       973,914  
    Deferred income taxes     12,852,299       10,817,112  
    Other noncurrent assets     2,282,709       1,683,932  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets, net     953,082       1,279,330  
    Total assets   $ 64,497,227     $ 62,193,364  
                     
    LIABILITIES, NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY                
                     
    Current Liabilities:                
    Accounts payable   $ 4,241,403     $ 4,656,367  
    Accounts payable – related party     15,716,600       15,383,171  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities     2,886,414       4,499,280  
    Interest payable – related parties     527,770       527,770  
    Revolving loan     3,000,000       3,000,000  
    Convertible notes at fair value     2,854,518       –  
    Current portion of long-term promissory note     2,701,003       2,722,548  
    Current portion of deferred revenue     3,864,474       3,947,559  
    Current portion of operating lease liabilities     1,042,688       1,444,385  
    Total current liabilities     36,834,870       36,181,080  
                     
    Accrued expenses     265,251       265,251  
    Deferred revenue, net of current portion     23,740,999       21,519,888  
    Operating lease liabilities, net of current portion     52,921       57,983  
    Total liabilities     60,894,041       58,024,202  
                     
    Commitments and contingencies                
                     
    Stockholders’ Equity:                
    Class A common stock, $0.0001 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized; 9,815,355 shares issued and 8,465,080 shares outstanding as of March 31, 2025, and 9,626,070 shares issued and 8,275,795 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2024     981       962  
    Class B common stock, $0.0001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized; 28,748,580 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024     2,875       2,875  
    Additional paid-in capital     27,063,795       25,738,082  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (224,202 )     (279,457 )
    Accumulated deficit     (14,063,392 )     (12,117,385 )
    Treasury stock at cost (1,350,275 shares as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024)     (3,671,806 )     (3,671,806 )
    Total Snail, Inc. equity     9,108,251       9,673,271  
    Noncontrolling interests     (5,505,065 )     (5,504,109 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     3,603,186       4,169,162  
    Total liabilities, noncontrolling interests and stockholders’ equity   $ 64,497,227     $ 62,193,364  
    Snail, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 (Unaudited)
     
                 
        Three months ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
                 
    Revenues, net   $ 20,110,872     $ 14,115,729  
    Cost of revenues     14,263,345       12,041,698  
                     
    Gross profit     5,847,527       2,074,031  
                     
    Operating expenses:                
    General and administrative     4,964,351       2,282,040  
    Research and development     3,609,745       1,776,522  
    Advertising and marketing     1,306,365       141,030  
    Depreciation and amortization     67,904       82,338  
    Total operating expenses     9,948,365       4,281,930  
                     
    Loss from operations     (4,100,838 )     (2,207,899 )
                     
    Other income (expense):                
    Interest income     29,906       99,762  
    Interest income – related parties     493       499  
    Interest expense     (80,828 )     (395,964 )
    Other income     769,762       227,066  
    Foreign currency transaction income (loss)     (36,288 )     18,128  
    Total other income (expense), net     683,045       (50,509 )
                     
    Loss before benefit from income taxes     (3,417,793 )     (2,258,408 )
                     
    Benefit from income taxes     (1,470,830 )     (477,950 )
                     
    Net loss     (1,946,963 )     (1,780,458 )
                     
    Net loss attributable to non-controlling interests     (956 )     (1,129 )
                     
    Net loss attributable to Snail, Inc.   $ (1,946,007 )   $ (1,779,329 )
                     
    Comprehensive loss statement:                
                     
    Net loss   $ (1,946,963 )   $ (1,780,458 )
                     
    Other comprehensive income (loss) related to foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax     33,232       (19,297 )
    Other comprehensive income (loss) related to credit adjustments, net of tax     22,023       –  
                     
    Total comprehensive loss   $ (1,891,708 )   $ (1,799,755 )
                     
    Net loss attributable to Class A common stockholders:                
    Basic   $ (441,731 )   $ (385,722 )
    Diluted   $ (521,393 )   $ (385,722 )
                     
    Net loss attributable to Class B common stockholders:                
    Basic   $ (1,504,276 )   $ (1,393,607 )
    Diluted   $ (1,775,558 )   $ (1,393,607 )
                     
    Loss per share attributable to Class A and B common stockholders:                
    Basic   $ (0.05 )   $ (0.05 )
    Diluted   $ (0.06 )   $ (0.05 )
                     
    Weighted-average shares used to compute loss per share attributable to Class A common stockholders:                
    Basic     8,442,025       7,957,031  
    Diluted     9,241,822       7,957,031  
                     
    Weighted-average shares used to compute loss per share attributable to Class B common stockholders:                
    Basic     28,748,580       28,748,580  
    Diluted     28,748,580       28,748,580  
    Snail, Inc. and Subsidiaries
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 (Unaudited)


     
        2025     2024  
                 
    Cash flows from operating activities:                
    Net loss   $ (1,946,963 )   $ (1,780,458 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:                
    Amortization – intangible assets, net     35,516       200  
    Amortization – film assets     212,709       –  
    Amortization – loan origination fees and debt discounts     (1,889 )     47,729  
    Accretion – convertible notes     –       181,754  
    Gain on change in fair value of convertible notes     (117,105 )     –  
    Gain on change in fair value of warrant liabilities     (639,518 )     –  
    Depreciation and amortization – property and equipment     67,904       82,338  
    Stock-based compensation expense (income)     843,619       (926,875 )
    Deferred taxes, net     (2,041,515 )     (555,781 )
                     
    Changes in assets and liabilities:                
    Accounts receivable     696,553       17,759,629  
    Accounts receivable – related party     2,503,407       (1,085,213 )
    Prepaid expenses – related party     (544,532 )     (1,351,838 )
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets     377,962       (1,779,508 )
    Prepaid taxes     143,451       70,407  
    Other noncurrent assets     (656,562 )     –  
    Accounts payable     (198,705 )     (1,938,654 )
    Accounts payable – related party     623,430       (6,143,374 )
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities     (650,236 )     (461,311 )
    Loan and interest receivable – related party     (493 )     (499 )
    Lease liabilities     (80,510 )     (64,821 )
    Deferred revenue     2,138,026       4,723,462  
    Net cash provided by operating activities     764,549       6,777,187  
                     
    Cash flows from investing activities:                
    Acquisition of software     (290,000 )     –  
    Acquisition of software licenses     (1,412,000 )     –  
    Investments in software     (177,002 )     –  
    Net cash used in investing activities     (1,879,002 )     –  
    Cash flows from financing activities:                
    Repayments on promissory note     (21,546 )     (20,484 )
    Repayments on notes payable     –       (2,333,333 )
    Repayments on convertible notes     –       (269,550 )
    Repayments on revolving loan     –       (3,000,000 )
    Cash proceeds from exercise of warrants     159,000       –  
    Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes     3,000,000       –  
    Payments of capitalized offering costs     –       (262,914 )
    Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities     3,137,454       (5,886,281 )
                     
    Effect of foreign currency translation on cash and cash equivalents     32,171       (19,186 )
                     
    Net increase in cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash and cash equivalents     2,055,172       871,720  
                     
    Cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash and cash equivalents – beginning of the period     8,238,944       16,314,319  
                     
    Cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash and cash equivalents – end of the period   $ 10,294,116     $ 17,186,039  
                     
    Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information                
    Cash paid during the period for:                
    Interest   $ 97,260     $ 171,101  
    Income taxes   $ 184,707     $ 1,871  
    Noncash transactions during the period for:                
    Debt converted to equity   $ –     $ (60,000 )
    Liabilities converted to equity upon exercise of warrants   $ 323,113     $ –  
    Acquisition of film licenses in accounts payable   $ 152,000     $ –  
    Acquisition of software and software licenses in accounts payable and accrued expenses   $ 51,741     $  –  
    Change in fair value of notes recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income   $ 22,023     $  –  

    The MIL Network –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Apache Corporation Tree Grant Program Opens U.S. Applications for 2025-2026 Planting Season

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apache Corporation, a subsidiary of APA Corporation (Nasdaq: APA), today announced the opening of applications for the Apache Corporation Tree Grant Program’s 2025-2026 planting season. To receive tree grants, applicants must be based in the United States.

    Since 2005, the program has partnered with more than 1,000 nonprofit organizations and government agencies across the company’s U.S. operating areas. In 2023, the program surpassed the significant milestone of donating more than 5 million trees to U.S. partners and expanded internationally launching a similar program in Scotland, where the company also operates.

    “We maintain a legacy of supporting land conservation through our environmental stewardship initiatives,” said John J. Christmann IV, Apache’s chief executive officer. “Our award-winning Tree Grant Program is a key part of this as we focus on enhancing public green spaces through reforestation and environmental education. We have worked with a range of partners over the last 20 years to support conservation efforts, whether it is to enrich neighborhoods, preserve natural habitats, or restock areas affected by natural disasters. Our team at Apache is honored to collaborate with our tree grant partners to create a more sustainable world for future generations.”

    The program is open to U.S.-based nonprofit organizations and government agencies in Texas and Louisiana. Grant recipients must request a minimum of 50 one-gallon, three-gallon or five-gallon trees per project or a minimum of 1,000 bareroot seedlings. Additionally, recipients must agree to receive all awarded trees in a single delivery and are required to provide ongoing care and maintenance of the trees. Grant awards will be announced Oct. 1, 2025, and all trees must be received and planted or distributed no later than May 31, 2026.

    Last season, Apache donated more than 134,000 trees to 52 nonprofit partner organizations in the U.S., including carbon mitigation efforts with Houston Wilderness, an alliance of business, environmental and government interests protecting the Gulf Coast ecoregion, and In Alpine, Texas, BBCA is a nonprofit organization that serves local wildlife by nurturing relationships within shared environments to create inclusive, equitable and just approaches to conservation with communities in the region. The company also partnered with TPWD has provided outdoor recreational opportunities by managing and protecting wildlife, parklands and historic areas that are essential to the natural and cultural resources of Texas.

    For more information and to apply to the 2025-2026 Apache Tree Grant Program, please visit www.apachelovestrees.com to submit an application by the July 13, 2025, deadline. To view the Apache Tree Grant Program video and learn more, click here.

    About Apache

    Apache Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of APA Corporation (Nasdaq: APA), is an oil and gas exploration and production company with operations in the United States, Egypt and the United Kingdom. Apache’s parent corporation, APA Corporation, posts announcements, operational updates, investor information and press releases on its websitewww.apacorp.com.

    About Apache Corporation Tree Grant Program

    Founded in 2005, the Apache Corporation Tree Grant Program is a philanthropic initiative of Apache Corporation that donates trees to nonprofits and government entities in the company’s operational areas. The program focuses on grants that support large-scale conservation, protection of habitats for wildlife and native species, as well as the restoration and enhancement of public greenspaces. This award-winning environmental stewardship initiative has provided more than 5 million trees to over 1,000 to qualified partners in the U.S. In addition to the development and improvement of public parks and greenspaces, community partners often request trees to support a broad range of conservation efforts, including preservation of natural habitats and reforestation. To learn more about the program, visit www.apachelovestrees.com.

    APA-T

    The MIL Network –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov Pillen Joins Republican Governors in Recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month and Israel’s Independence Day

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    .

    In addition to the joint statement, Gov. Pillen said: “Jewish people have had a strong and dynamic influence on Nebraska since its territorial beginnings and have made significant contributions across our state. We stand united in soundly rejecting all forms of antisemitism. I appreciate the partnerships we have fostered so far and look forward to strengthening the bond between Nebraska and Israel moving forward.”

    Gov. Pillen will sign a proclamation recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month tomorrow.

    In their statement, the Republican Governors wrote:

    “As public servants and governors, we are proud to recognize May as Jewish American Heritage Month. We encourage all Americans to honor and celebrate the profound historical, cultural, and economic contributions of Jewish Americans who continue to enrich our communities and strengthen our nation. In our classrooms and at the kitchen table, we encourage our citizens to learn more about the strong heritage of our nation’s Jewish American community that has long been a part of our nation’s fabric, beginning with the Revolutionary War.

    “The United States was proudly the first nation to recognize the State of Israel, cementing what has been an unbreakable bond for nearly 80 years. We reaffirm our continued, unwavering support for the nation of Israel and her people.

    “We stand in solidarity with our nation’s Jewish community, and we condemn the rampant antisemitism, vile religious bigotry, and brutal terrorism that still festers in our country and across the globe.”

    Signatories to the statement include: Governor Kay Ivey (AL), Governor Mike Dunleavy (AK), Governor Sarah Sanders (AR), Governor Ron DeSantis (FL), Governor Brian Kemp (GA), Governor Brad Little (ID), Governor Mike Braun (IN), Governor Kim Reynolds (IA), Governor Jeff Landry (LA), Governor Tate Reeves (MS), Governor Mike Kehoe (MO), Governor Greg Gianforte (MT), Governor Jim Pillen (NE), Governor Joe Lombardo (NV), Governor Kelly Ayotte (NH), Governor Kelly Armstrong (ND), Governor Mike DeWine (OH), Governor Kevin Stitt (OK), Governor Jenniffer González-Colón (PR), Governor Henry McMaster (SC), Governor Larry Rhoden (SD), Governor Bill Lee (TN), Governor Greg Abbott (TX), Governor Spencer Cox (UT), Governor Phil Scott (VT), Governor Glenn Youngkin (VA), Governor Patrick Morrisey (WV), and Governor Mark Gordon (WY).

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Yemen: Special Envoy’s Security Council Media Stakeout | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Comments to the media by Hans Grundberg, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, on the situation in the Middle East.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6P6zbWne9E

    MIL OSI Video –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Greece on women, peace and security in Yemen | Security Council Stakeout | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Joint statement delivered by Ambassador Evangelos Sekeris, Permanent Representative of Greece to the United Nations, on behalf of the signatories of the Shared Commitments on Women, Peace and Security, on the situation of women in Yemen, at the Security Council Stakeout.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KT9pJkoGfVU

    MIL OSI Video –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary-General/Peacekeeping, Yemen & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Secretary-General/peacekeeping
    Peacekeeping ministerial meeting
    Yemen
    Security Council
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Lebanon
    Syria
    Syria returnees
    Deputy Secretary-General/trip announcement
    Somalia
    Haiti
    José “Pepe” Mujica
    Noon briefing guests – tomorrow
    Noon briefing guest – Andrew Saberton

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/PEACEKEEPING
    The Secretary-General is continuing his meetings in Berlin. As you know, he is in Berlin to attend the Ministerial Meeting on Peacekeeping. Right now, he is meeting with Friedrich Merz, Federal Chancellor of Germany and they are just starting a press stakeout.
    Earlier today, he said that he is heartened by the exceptional turn-out of Ministers from across the globe, representing the full range of peacekeeping partners. Just to let you know that we have an update that more than 130 Member States were present and 74 Member States made pledges to support peace operations.
    The Secretary-General added that this meeting comes at a time when unfortunately, peacekeeping operations are facing serious liquidity problems. He called on all Member States to respect their financial obligations, paying their contributions in full and on time.
    These remarks were made during a joint press conference with the Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, Johann Wadephul, and Federal Minister of Defence, Boris Pistorius. He noted that he is especially pleased to be in Berlin so soon after the new Government took office, and he looks forward to building on our partnership in the time ahead.
    Mr. Guterres also met today with Ms. Reem Alabali-Radovan, Minister for Development and Economic Cooperation of Germany. Tomorrow, he is scheduled to hold discussions with Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the President of Germany, before he departs to Iraq to attend the League of Arab States Summit.  

    PEACEKEEPING MINISTERIAL MEETING 
    During the Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin, the United Nations unveiled a new multi-year initiative funded by the Federal Republic of Germany to provide women troops deployed in Peace Operations with gender-specific protective gear, including ballistic vests and helmets. During an award ceremony held earlier today during the Member States’ gathering, Nils Hilmer, State Secretary at the German Ministry of Defense and Atul Khare, Under-Secretary-General for Operational Support, announced the selection of Fiji, Guatemala, Kenya, Malawi, Malaysia, Mongolia and Tanzania, to receive the equipment – in recognition of their commitment to the Uniformed Gender Parity Strategy and the deployment of women in operational roles. The project, worth one million Euros in total, aims to enhance the performance, safety and security of women peacekeepers in complex and volatile mission environments and ultimately promote their participation in peacekeeping efforts.

    YEMEN
    Hans Grundberg, the Special Envoy for Yemen, briefed the Security Council this morning and welcomed the announcement on 6 May of a cessation of hostilities between the USA and Ansar Allah. He said that this step represents an important and necessary de-escalation in the Red Sea and in Yemen following the resumption, on 15 March, of US airstrikes against targets in Ansar Allah-controlled areas.
    He said that events in recent weeks, however, have also served as stark reminders that Yemen is ensnared in the wider regional tensions. The attack carried out by Ansar Allah on Ben Gurion Airport on 4 May, and the subsequent strikes by Israel on Hudaydah Port, Sana’a Airport, and other locations in response, represent a dangerous escalation, and the threats and attacks, regrettably, continue.
    Tom Fletcher, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, told Council members that the humanitarian situation is deteriorating, and those most in peril are the country’s children. Half of Yemen’s children – or 2.3 million – are malnourished, he said, and 600,000 of them are severely so.
    Mr. Fletcher warned that Yemen’s 2025 humanitarian response plan is barely 9 per cent funded – less than half of what we received at the same time last year. These shortfalls have very real consequences. He said that we expect pipeline gaps as early as June or July – right when malnutrition numbers will peak.  
    Mr. Grundberg will speak at the stakeout once he is done in the Council and we will let you know when that happens.

    Full Highlights:
    https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=14%20May%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EoV4ApxYiYE

    MIL OSI Video –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Gaza: UN Urges Immediate Action to Save Lives – OCHA Briefing | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher today (13 May) asked the Security Council Members “to reflect for a moment on what action we will tell future generations we each took to stop the 21st century atrocity to which we bear daily witness in Gaza.”

    Fletcher, briefing the Council on the humanitarian situation in the Palestinian enclave, said, “Israel is deliberately un unashamedly imposing inhumane conditions on civilians in the occupied Palestinian territory. For more than ten weeks. Nothing has entered Gaza. No food, medicine, water, or tents. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have again been forcibly displaced and confined into ever shrinking spaces, as 70 percent of Gaza’s territory is either within Israeli militarized zones or under displacement orders.”

    The humanitarian official said Israel denies humanitarians access, “placing the objective of depopulating Gaza before the lives of civilians.”

    He said, “we have lifesaving supplies ready now at the borders. We can save hundreds of thousands of survivors. We have rigorous mechanisms to ensure our aid gets to civilians, and not to Hamas. But

    He asked Council Members, “what more evidence do you need now? Will you act decisively to prevent genocide and to ensure respect for international humanitarian law? Or will you say instead that we did all we could?”

    The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Director of its Liaison Office with the United Nations, Angélica Jácome, told the Council that “agrifood systems have collapsed in the Gaza Strip while food prices have soared.”

    Jácome said, “we are witnessing the systemic breakdown of conditions essential for survival. People in Gaza are not only experiencing lack of food, but they are going through a profound breakdown of health, livelihood, and social structures, leaving entire communities in a state of desperation, devastation, and death.”

    Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour told the Council that “930,000 children are at critical risk of famine” in Gaza, “not because there is no food. Food is there. A few meters away. Rotting instead of reaching those who desperately need it. But because Israel has been openly and brazenly blocking humanitarian aid for over two months now.”

    Mansour said, “this is engineered starvation. It is the most inhumane form of torture and killing.”

    He noted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had told the Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee of the Israeli Knesset on Sunday “we are destroying more and more homes. They have nowhere to return to. The only inevitable outcome will be the wish of Gazans to immigrate outside of the Gaza Strip.”

    For his part, Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon said, “we will not accept a humanitarian mechanism that props up the terror organization that butchered our people. We will not sit idly by as food, fuel and funds meant for civilians are funnelled into the Hamas terror machine. We will never allow our morality to be weaponized against us again.”

    Danon said Secretary-General António Guterres had “refused to engage” in a new humanitarian distribution plan proposed by Israel, alleging that the plan “in his view, does not meet the principles of and I quote, ‘impartiality, humanity, independence and neutrality.”

    The Israeli Ambassador said, “the irony is unbelievable, as the previous mechanism made a mockery of every one of those principles. That is not diplomacy. That is not neutrality. That is sabotage disguised as principle.”

    Danon said, “to Secretary-General Guterres I say this; the aid that ended up in Hamas hands did not bring hope. It did not bring progress. It brought death. That path leads nowhere, Mr. Guterres, you are invited to return to the table. But if you do come with open eyes, and open ears, something can be achieved.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqP4zwbZxoU

    MIL OSI Video –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNIFIL Statement (14 May 2025)

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    UNIFIL is concerned by the recent aggressive posture of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) involving UNIFIL personnel and assets near the Blue Line, including yesterday’s incident in which a direct fire hit the perimeter of a UNIFIL position south of the village of Kfar Shouba.

    In yesterday’s incident, peacekeepers observed two shots fired from south of the Blue Line with one of them hitting the UNIFIL base.

    This marks the first time a UNIFIL position has been directly hit since the 27 November cessation of hostilities understanding while in this period UNIFIL has observed at least four other incidents involving IDF fire near its positions along the Blue Line.

    In recent days, UNIFIL has also observed other aggressive behaviour by the IDF towards peacekeepers performing operational activities in accordance with Security Council Resolution 1701.

    Also yesterday, UNIFIL peacekeepers performing a patrol with the Lebanese army near Maroun ar-Ra’s reported being targeted by a laser from a nearby IDF position.

    In another incident south of Alma ash-Shaab on 7 May, laser beams were pointed towards a UNIFIL patrol from two IDF Merkava tanks. As the patrol began to move, a drone flew approximately five metres above it, following the patrol for about a kilometre. Separately, on the same day, an aerial vehicle repeatedly flew over a UNIFIL position east of Houla.

    UNIFIL protests all such and we continue to remind all actors of their responsibility to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property and to respect the inviolability of UN assets and premises at all times.

    _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

    https://t.me/UNIFIL_Lebanon

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Trade and Gender Group discusses new work programme, potential MC14 outcomes

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Trade and Gender Group discusses new work programme, potential MC14 outcomes

    The co-Chairs of the Informal Working Group (IWG), Ambassador Clara Delgado of Cabo Verde, Ambassador Patricia Benedetti of El Salvador and Ambassador Simon Manley of the United Kingdom, reported on the consultations held with members to shape the Group’s priorities ahead of MC14. They highlighted the importance of agreeing on the Work Plan for 2025-26, which will help identify practical ways to move the substantive work of the IWG forward.
    Key themes raised by members included gender-disaggregated trade data, digitalization as a tool for women’s empowerment, support for women entrepreneurs, and mainstreaming gender issues across WTO bodies. Members also called for continued collaboration with other international organizations. A draft work plan will be finalized in the coming weeks.
    International Prize for Gender Equality in Trade
    The WTO launched the second edition of the International Prize for Gender Equality in Trade, which recognizes impactful gender-responsive trade policies. The deadline for applications has been extended to 15 May, with eight submissions received so far. Winners will be announced in June 2025, with further details on the award ceremony to follow. The Prize, first introduced to mark International Women’s Day in 2024, will now be awarded annually, following a decision made by the IWG in November 2024.
    WEIDE Fund
    The WTO Secretariat and the International Trade Centre (ITC) provided an update on the implementation of the Women Exporters in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund. Launched at the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference in February 2024, the Fund has raised USD 22 million in donations and pledges, aiming to bridge resource and skills gaps for women-led businesses in the digital economy.
    The Fund targets micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and offers grants of up to USD 30,000, alongside technical support, to enhance digital competence and market access. The Fund aims to foster growth in digital skills and financial readiness, with a focus on empowering women entrepreneurs globally.
    With applications now open for women entrepreneurs, the initiative has already selected four business support organizations (BSOs), following a competitive call for proposals, to help administer grants in four countries: Dominican Republic, Jordan, Mongolia and Nigeria. Over 2,000 applications have been received from all four countries following a call launched on 22 April 2025.
    Presentations
    The Dominican Republic presented progress and lessons learned from its gender-responsive programme ProDominicana, supporting women exporters since 2020. Key initiatives include a national plan for export promotion, gender equality policies, and the development of a platform to track women-led export businesses.
    ProDominicana organizes annual events, such as Women in Export meetings, fostering partnerships and expanding business-to-business (B2B) opportunities. It has also launched a comprehensive institutional strategy to strengthen women’s participation in exports, with collaboration from government bodies, women’s associations and international partners. Additionally, ProDominicana provides training programmes with a focus on export and trade development, which have benefitted hundreds of women.
    These initiatives reflect the Dominican Republic’s commitment to promoting gender equality and enhancing opportunities for women entrepreneurs. For this purpose, ProDominicana has been working with ITC on various projects including the SheTrades Hub and the WEIDE Fund.
    The Secretariat for Central American Economic Integration (SIECA) updated members about its work on data on women involved in trade in Central America, noting the importance of women’s participation in economic activities. Central America has made strides in integrating gender into trade agreements, with policies promoting gender equality and specific measures supporting women in e-commerce and access to financing.
    The region’s population is predominantly female, and efforts are focused on reducing gender gaps, particularly in leadership roles within businesses and political participation. The need for better gender-disaggregated data and more support for women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields was underlined. The region’s gender equality policy emphasizes democratic security, economic integration, and the need for continued efforts to ensure women’s participation in decision-making processes.
    The WTO Secretariat informed the IWG that due to budgetary constraints, the length of the second edition of the World Trade Congress on Gender has been adjusted. In this regard, there will be a one-day symposium organized back-to-back with the next IWG meeting in July. A programme will be communicated in due course.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-Evening Report: A law change will expand who we remember on Anzac Day – the New Zealand Wars should be included too

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Gillespie, Professor of Law, University of Waikato

    The New Zealand Wars memorial in new Plymouth. Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

    Anzac Day has come and gone again. But – lest we forget – war and its consequences are not confined to single days in the calendar. Nor do we only remember those who fought at Gallipoli more than a century ago.

    This gradual expansion of the scope and meaning of April 25 is now about to grow further, with the Anzac Day Amendment Bill currently before parliament. Its goal is to make the commemoration “broader and more inclusive than it currently is”.

    Remembrance will soon include “other conflicts and persons who have served New Zealand in time of war or in warlike conflicts in the past and in the future that are not currently covered”.

    New Zealand personnel who served in United Nations missions, and who fought or died in training, will be recognised, as will civilians who served in war or warlike conflicts. Without doubt, it is an excellent initiative.

    The question is, does it go far enough? The obvious omission, if the new law is intended to be “broader” and include past wars, is the conflict that helped shape (and still shapes) the country we are today: the New Zealand Wars.

    Of course, including this pivotal period from 1843 to 1872 plays into the politics of today, given the land confiscations and other injustices the New Zealand Wars also represent. The question is whether their inclusion can avoid becoming a culture war in the process.

    How Anzac Day has grown

    The case for explicitly including the New Zealand Wars is strong. It is thought about 500 British and colonial troops, 250 of their Māori allies (sometimes known as kūpapa), and 2,000 Māori fighting against the Crown died in these conflicts.

    It was also during these wars that Australian and New Zealand military cooperation (the earliest form of Anzacs, in a sense) actually began. Around 2,500 Australian men enlisted for irregular New Zealand militia units, many encouraged by the offer of land grants in return for serving.

    Furthermore, Anzac Day has gradually grown over time to include wars and military conflicts beyond the tragedy in Turkey, first observed in 1916 when the government gazetted a half-day holiday (later made into a full public holiday in 1921) .

    The government again changed the law governing Anzac Day in 1949 to include World War II and the 11,500 New Zealand citizens who died in it. Significantly, it also added the South African/Boer War (which killed 59 New Zealanders), setting a precedent for bringing pre-first world war events into the frame.

    In 1966, Anzac Day’s scope grew again to recognise those “who at any time have given their lives for New Zealand and the British Empire or Commonwealth of Nations”. This allowed commemorations to cover the Cold War period, during which New Zealanders were killed in the Malayan Emergency (15), Korea (38) and Vietnam (37).

    Remembering without prejudice

    The counterargument to including the New Zealand Wars in an expanded Anzac Day might be that we already have a dedicated day of observance: Te Pūtake o te Riri on October 28, the date the Declaration of Independence of the United Tribes of New Zealand (precursor to the Treaty of Waitangi) was signed in 1835.

    First observed in 2018, the commemorations take place in different locations each year. And perhaps one day, young New Zealanders will talk about the events at Rangiriri, Gate Pā, Matawhero and Ngātapa in the same way they now talk about Gallipoli, Passchendaele, Crete and Monte Cassino.

    But the problem is that a two-tier system seems to have been created. Te Pūtake o te Riri was not made an official holiday and has struggled for wider recognition. While there is some public funding available, it is not on the scale of Anzac Day.

    Te Pūtake o te Riri can and will continue to evolve, and it’s focus on the causes and injustices of these conflicts should not be diminished.

    But an expanded and more inclusive Anzac Day, which recognises those who fought and died, would add another layer of meaning to a date long enshrined in the national calendar, similar to the way National Memorial Day in the United States encompasses their Civil War.

    We are now at a point in history when the injustices of the early colonial government have at least been acknowledged through the Treaty settlement process. It would make sense for the New Zealand Wars to be folded into the Anzac Day Amendment Bill.

    The words “lest we forget” should also apply to those who fell in the nation’s third most costly military conflict. That way we can remember all of the fallen, without prejudice.


    Public submissions on the Anzac Day Amendment Bill close on Thursday May 22.

    Alexander Gillespie 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. A law change will expand who we remember on Anzac Day – the New Zealand Wars should be included too – https://theconversation.com/a-law-change-will-expand-who-we-remember-on-anzac-day-the-new-zealand-wars-should-be-included-too-256682

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Andor showcases the power of music to oppose tyranny – an homage to the French Resistance

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Clare V. Church, Fellow of the Institute of Historical Research, School of Advanced Study, University of London

    Warning: this article contains spoilers for Andor season two, up to episode nine.

    This week, many fans are diving into the final episodes of Andor season two on Disney+. Meanwhile, others are still reeling from last week’s powerful episode.

    Episodes seven through nine of the Star Wars spin-off show depicted the tragedy of the fictional Ghorman massacre and its political fallout. Set chronologically two years before Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope, the episodes present the peaks of the Galactic Empire’s oppressive rule over the planet Ghorman, which culminates in a mass slaughter of peaceful Ghor protesters in the capital city’s main plaza.

    Episode eight, Who Are You?, is a poignant portrayal of propaganda, collective resistance and military force.

    A particularly emotive scene comes when Lezine (Thierry Godard) – a member of a local rebel group called the Ghorman Front – begins to sing in the midst of the Ghor’s demonstration. Soon, all members of the peaceful protest join Lezine’s chorus in an act that signals not aggression, but community.


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    The moment echoes the French Resistance’s use of music to defy Nazi rule throughout the second world war. The French Resistance was a movement of civilians and combatants who opposed the German occupation of France.

    While the episode’s parallels to Earth-side conflicts throughout historical and modern eras do not start and stop with the French Resistance, it is worth unpacking these similarities further. Doing so reveals insights into the power of art — and specifically music – in fighting tyranny.

    The political parallels between Star Wars and Andor

    The Star Wars franchise has long been analysed for its political storytelling. The original trilogy, for instance, makes connections to the French Revolution, the second world war and the Vietnam war. There are overarching themes of colonialism, fascist dictatorship and guerrilla warfare.

    Andor is no exception. Showrunner Tony Gilroy uses two 12-episode seasons to narrate the birth of a rebellion and subsequent revolution. Critics and Star Wars pundits alike have commented on the show’s parallels to historical and contemporary conflicts, with think-pieces and social-media threads comparing season two’s plot points to the America’s 2003 invasion of Iraq, the Russo-Ukrainian war and even the conflict in Gaza.

    The Ghor sing their anthem as an act of defiance in Andor season two, episode eight.

    The Ghorman massacre has become an especially explosive talking point given its significance to the overall series. At the start of season two, it becomes clear that the Galactic empire requires a mineral – kalkite – that is unique to Ghorman to supply its “energy initiative” (the Death Star).

    The empire subsequently launches a devastating propaganda campaign to turn the galaxy against the Ghor. This is done in anticipation of eventually carrying out a genocide against the planet’s people to clear the path for unimpeded mineral extraction. In turn, it is the Ghorman massacre that prompts Senator Mon Mothma (Genevieve O’Reilly) to publicly declare her opposition to the “monstrous” Emperor Palpatine (Ian McDiarmid) and lead the Rebel Alliance – as seen in the films Rogue One (2016) and Episode IV – A New Hope (1977).

    In the lead-up to the Ghorman massacre, some of the Ghor initiate an underground resistance against the empire’s forces – often haphazard and disjointed, but resilient all the same. Several storytelling devices are used to evoke the spirit of the French Resistance.

    For one, Gilroy casts French actors to play many of the Ghorman Front leaders, including Ewens Abid, Thierry Godard and Caroline Vanier. Second, the Ghor language is based on a combination of French phonetics and Italian grammar. Combined with the accents of the Ghor actors, it conjures the feeling of the French language, without directly using its vocabulary.

    The costuming of the Ghor is also suggestive of second world war France, as they don trench coats and berets.

    Music as a tool against tyranny

    In the episode, the protesters sing the Ghor national anthem: We Are The Ghor! Its lyrics yield imagery of the “valley” and “highland”, as well as call upon its nationals to “raise your eyes to homeland skies”, “call your kin to come and sing”, and “tight the weave and roll the sleeve”.

    Describing the creation of the anthem, composer Nicholas Britell remarked that his and Gilroy’s goal was to “create something that felt timeless and authentic, but which could also feel like an emotional rallying cry”.

    The French national anthem, La Marseillaise, has served a similar mandate since its adoption in 1795. It was used as a political tool of resistance throughout the second world war.

    French soldiers are shown singing La Marseillaise in a scene from Casablanca (1942).

    Upon Germany’s defeat of France in 1940, the Nazi occupiers swiftly banned French citizens from singing La Marseillaise. In November 1940, however, thousands of French students and civilians marched around the Arc de Triomphe while chanting the anthem in a show of defiance. To end the display of unity, occupying forces violently dispersed the demonstration, injuring and arresting many.

    Members of the French Resistance also gained a second anthem throughout the war, titled Le Chant des Partisans, which was composed and performed by Anna Marly. Like We Are The Ghor!, the tune evokes rural landscapes, hard workers and kin, as well as issues demands to its listeners-in-arms to “sing” as one.

    There are many accounts of Le Chant being used to oppose Nazi rule. It was played, for instance, over the radio to signal an incoming message for the French Resistance. It was also reportedly hummed between members of the Maquis during sabotage operations. One account even relays the story of French fighters who whistled the song while they were forced by the Germans to dig their own graves.

    The trailer for season two of Andor.

    These examples from history and fantasy demonstrate the power of music to oppose tyranny. While in itself an act of nonviolence, singing in a group is a tool of community building – an indispensable component of overcoming authoritarianism. Tellingly, in an interview with DECIDER, Andor creator Gilroy explained that authoritarianism is always “about the destruction of community”.

    When you sing along with the crowd at a beloved artist’s concert or belt the anthem ahead of a heated sports match, it is the joy of community that is felt – a feeling of oneness among a swath of strangers. It is therefore in this musical moment – reminiscent of not just the French Resistance but of all movements that have deployed music in defiance – that the fictional realm of Andor’s Who Are You? tragically tells the truth.

    For fans, it aptly brings to bear the unshakeable capacity of singing to combat oppression, be it here on Earth, or in a galaxy, far, far away.

    Clare V. Church 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. Andor showcases the power of music to oppose tyranny – an homage to the French Resistance – https://theconversation.com/andor-showcases-the-power-of-music-to-oppose-tyranny-an-homage-to-the-french-resistance-256522

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Frontloading elements of the EU asylum and migration package on the basis of a completely inadequate EU list of safe countries of origin – E-001852/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001852/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Petra Steger (PfE), Mary Khan (ESN)

    On 16 April 2025, the Commission announced the frontloading of elements of the asylum and migration package adopted in 2024, which was originally not due to come into force until June 2026. The announcement does not represent systemic change, however; rather, it is merely a pusillanimous attempt to appease the EU’s increasingly incensed population. For one thing, the planned accelerated procedures at external borders are utterly toothless, as they are restricted to countries of origin for which the cross-EU recognition rate is below 20%; and, for another, the published EU list of safe countries of origin is alarmingly incomplete and ignores changed geopolitical realities. Large countries that export asylum seekers and crime, such as Syria or Afghanistan, will therefore remain completely unaffected by the measures. In addition, the involvement of questionable non-governmental organisations in the assessment procedure for classifying safe countries of origin does not suggest that there will be an end any time soon to illegal mass migration to Europe.

    • 1.What tangible effects does the Commission expect from the frontloading of elements of the EU asylum and migration package if those elements do not affect the largest migrant groups at all?
    • 2.How does the Commission intend to prevent illegal migrants from countries that are not affected by accelerated procedures or the list of safe countries of origin from continuing to profit from protracted procedures and from ultimately remaining in the EU permanently?
    • 3.Which non-governmental organisations are specifically involved in the assessment procedure for classifying safe countries of origin?

    Submitted: 7.5.2025

    Last updated: 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Bergman Introduces Bipartisan Resolution to Strengthen U.S.-Israel Defense Partnership

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jack Bergman (MI-1)

    On Wednesday, Rep. Jack Bergman (MI-01), joined by Reps. Davis (NC-01), Golden (ME-02), and Goldman (TX-12), introduced a resolution reaffirming the United States’ steadfast commitment to Israel and calling for expanded U.S.-Israel defense cooperation in the face of evolving global threats.

    The resolution emphasizes the deep strategic alliance between the two nations, citing shared democratic values, regional stability priorities, and extensive military collaboration—including joint work on the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow missile defense systems.

    “Our partnership with Israel is rooted in trust, strength, and shared national security interests,” said Rep. Jack Bergman. “As threats grow more complex—ranging from cyberattacks to terrorism and state-sponsored aggression—we must double down on defense innovation and intelligence sharing. This resolution makes clear that Israel’s security is America’s security.”

    “In an increasingly dangerous world, the alliance between the United States and Israel has taken on even greater significance. Our partnership, marked by deepening bilateral defense collaboration, counters the threats posed by global extremists,” said Congressman Don Davis. “By working closely, we will only strengthen our national security and reinforce the fundamental principles that unite us—democracy and freedom.”

    “When our allies embrace their responsibility to help defend against mutual threats, families are safer in both of our countries,” said Congressman Jared Golden. “Israel has stepped up to the plate to counter the drone and digital tactics favored by our enemies. I fully support the continued coordination of intelligence and defense efforts to protect Americans and Israelis alike from both independent terrorist organizations and state-sponsored aggressors.”

    Rep. Craig Goldman stated, “For decades, the United States has stood shoulder to shoulder with Israel, demonstrating our steadfast partnership. I’m proud to join Representatives Bergman, Davis, and Golden in co-sponsoring this resolution to strengthen the U.S.-Israel defense partnership. This measure reaffirms our security cooperation and emphasizes our commitment to expanding defense collaboration between our two nations. The national security of both the United States and Israel depends on a strong and enduring defense alliance.”

    The resolution highlights recent advancements in joint defense initiatives such as counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C–UAS) and anti-tunneling technologies, developed through cooperation at the Irregular Warfare Support Directorate. It also calls for prioritizing emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity during the renegotiation of the U.S.-Israel Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

    If adopted, the resolution would reaffirm congressional support for Israel’s right to self-defense, endorse further investment in bilateral defense initiatives, and ensure Israel retains its qualitative military edge in an increasingly volatile region.

    Rep. Bergman concluded, “This resolution reinforces a message our adversaries must hear loud and clear: the United States stands firmly with Israel—today, tomorrow, and in the future.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: ADL Report: Congressman Brad Sherman Named Top Target of Antisemitic Hate in the House of Representatives

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following a report released by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) identifying him as the most targeted Member of the House of Representatives for antisemitic abuse, Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32) issued the following statement:

    “The findings in the ADL’s report are disturbing but not surprising. Antisemitism is on the rise, and it’s hitting closer to home than ever. When hate is left unchecked online, it doesn’t stay online—it seeps into our communities, our institutions, and even our government. So unfortunately, it’s no surprise that this uptick in online hate coincides with the rise in offline antisemitism – which has reached record-breaking levels since Hamas’s massacre of 1,200 innocent Israelis, Americans, and others on October 7th, 2023. 

    This wave of hate has continued to impact constituents in and near my district: two Jewish men were shot in an attempted murder while leaving religious services in Pico-Robertson[1]; a Jewish couple was assaulted outside of their synagogue in Beverly Hills[2]; the infamous antisemitic riot outside of the Adas Torah synagogue on Pico Boulevard, wherein an anti-Israel mob tried to prevent worshippers from entering the synagogue and assaulted a number of Jewish community members.[3] And just outside my district in Thousand Oaks, a 69 year old Jewish man, Paul Kessler, was brutally assaulted and killed by a anti-Israel protester.

    I will not be intimidated. I will not be silenced. I’ve spent my career standing up to extremism and antisemitism, and defending the right of all marginalized groups – including American Jews – to live in peace. That commitment only deepens in the face of these attacks.”

    In a report that was released on May 8, Anti-Defamation League researchers said they collected and analyzed antisemitic comments directed at 30 Jewish members of Congress with Facebook accounts. 

    The report concluded that among these 30 Jewish members of Congress, the most frequently targeted Senators were Bernie Sanders (D-VT) and Chuck Schumer (D-NY), while Congressman Brad Sherman stood as the most frequently targeted in the House of Representatives. 

    To read the ADL’s full report, click here.

    ###


    [1] U.S. DOJ: Former California Man Sentenced to 35 Years in Prison for Attempting to Murder Two Jewish Men Leaving Los Angeles Synagogues Last Year
    https://www.justice.gov/archives/opa/pr/former-california-man-sentenced-35-years-prison-attempting-murder-two-jewish-men-leaving-los

    [2] ‘Despicable act of hate’: Suspect arrested after antisemitic assault in Beverly Hills

    https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-12-10/arrest-made-in-the-antisemitic-assault-of-an-elderly-man-in-beverly-hills

    [3] JPost: Lawsuit hits protest groups, funder over Pico-Robertson synagogue riots

    https://www.jpost.com/diaspora/antisemitism/article-812203

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Need for sanctions and embargo on the sale of military equipment in response to Türkiye’s threats to invade Cyprus – E-001809/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001809/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Geadis Geadi (ECR)

    A few days ago, the Turkish Ministry of Defence launched direct threats against Cyprus. In what is a total provocation and failure to respect the European Union, the Republic of Cyprus’ status as an EU Member State or Türkiye’s supposed aspirations to EU membership, the Ministry has stated its intention to launch a fresh invasion of Cyprus or, as it calls it, a second ‘peaceful’ intervention in Cyprus.

    At the same time, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has once again referred to a two-state solution in Cyprus, which is completely incompatible with international law, which constitutes the foundation of European principles and values.

    Can the Commission therefore answer the following:

    • 1.With European Commissioners referring to Türkiye as an ‘important partner’ and ‘strategic ally’, while putting up with the country’s threats to relaunch its invasion of the European territories of the Republic of Cyprus and firmly upholding their double standards – which calls into question European strength and sovereignty – when will this farce end?
    • 2.Will it continue to support defence cooperation with Türkiye and tolerate the use of European military equipment against Member States, or will there finally be serious discussions on the need for an embargo on the sale of European equipment to Türkiye?
    • 3.Will it finally stop its funding to Türkiye and, at the same time, move forward with harsh economic and other sanctions, or will it wait for Türkiye to make good on its threats?

    Submitted: 2.5.2025

    Last updated: 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Latest developments in western Syria – E-001117/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Assad regime’s fall has been a historic moment for the Syrian people. Throughout the conflict, including in the 2018 Council conclusions on Syria[1], the EU condemned the Assad regime’s brutal violations of international law and deliberate and indiscriminate attacks against civilians, including the use of chemical weapons. What was discovered since the fall of the regime only confirmed its brutality.

    In this critical period, the EU supports an inclusive, peaceful, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned transition built on the respect of international law and human rights. In this context, the EU has welcomed the interim authorities’ first positive steps towards an inclusive transition, such as the National Dialogue Conference, the Constitutional Declaration, and the formation of the new government. The EU is in contact with interim authorities and local actors, including civil society, to strongly advocate for tolerance and pluralism. The EU remains attentive to the actions of the new authorities in ensuring the protection of all Syrians, regardless of their background, notably ethnic or religious, and upholding the universality and indivisibility of human rights and the principles of equality and non-discrimination.

    Gravely alarmed by the violence in Syria’s coastal region, on 11 March 2025, the High Representative/Vice-President issued a statement[2] on behalf of the EU strongly condemning the attacks by pro-Assad militias and the horrific crimes against civilians, including summary killings, many of which were allegedly perpetrated by armed groups supporting the transitional authorities. The EU called for a swift, transparent and impartial investigation to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice, and welcomed the transitional authorities’ establishment of an independent investigative committee. Everything must be done to prevent any such crimes from happening again.

    • [1] https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-7956-2018-INIT/en/pdf .
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/03/11/syria-statement-by-the-high-representative-on-behalf-of-the-european-union-on-the-recent-wave-of-violence/.
    Last updated: 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Concerns about humanitarian aid in Syria reaching minorities persecuted by Islamists – P-001099/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU strictly adheres to the humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence, as outlined in the EU Treaties and the European Consensus on Humanitarian Aid[1]. The EU provides humanitarian aid to all people in need in Syria, without discrimination and irrespective of ethnicity, faith or other considerations other than need. This includes the Alawite community and Christian populations.

    The EU’s humanitarian assistance is delivered through certified humanitarian partners in all parts of Syria, regardless of the area of control. EU-funded humanitarian operations are based on people’s needs, humanitarian principles, and accountability to affected populations.

    The resilience/non-humanitarian assistance provided in Syria by the EU also follows strict parameters of implementation. It aims to foster social cohesion by bringing together Syrians and countering any form of community or ethnical fragmentation.

    The EU was gravely alarmed by the horrific sectarian violence in Syria’s coastal region targeting minorities. On 11 March 2025, the High Representative/Vice-President issued a statement on behalf of the EU, strongly condemning the attacks[2]. This was also supported by the Joint Press Statement issued on 18 March 2025 by the Commissioner for Equality; Preparedness and Crisis Management, Commissioner for the Mediterranean, High Representative/Vice-President, and the Foreign Minister of the Syrian transitional government, His Excellency Asaad Hasan Al-Shaibani[3].

    The EU welcomed the transitional authorities’ commitments to establish an independent investigative committee and called on them to allow the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic to investigate.

    • [1] Joint Statement by the Council and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council, the European Parliament and the European Commission, OJ C 25, 30.1.2008, p. 1-12, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A42008X0130%2801%29.
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/03/11/syria-statement-by-the-high-representative-on-behalf-of-the-european-union-on-the-recent-wave-of-violence/ .
    • [3] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/03/18/brussels-ix-conference-on-standing-with-syria-meeting-the-needs-for-a-successful-transition-joint-press-statement/ .
    Last updated: 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 15, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Justification for the invitation to Ahmed al-Sharaa, linked to terrorism and war crimes, to attend Brussels donor summit – E-001071/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    On 17 March 2025, the EU hosted the ninth Brussels Conference on ‘Standing with Syria: meeting the needs for a successful transition’ to support Syria’s transition process and socioeconomic recovery, while also addressing the immediate humanitarian needs, both in Syria and the region. The conference brought together key regional and international partners, as well as members of the Syrian civil society. This being a ministerial event, Foreign Minister H.E. Asaad Hasan Al-Shaibani of the Syrian transitional government was the Syrian representative invited, who attended the Conference[1]. It is worth to remind that he is not listed under the EU restrictive measures against Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant/Da’esh and Al-Qaeda (United Nations-EU mixed regime).

    The fall of the Assad regime signals a historic moment for the Syrian people. In this critical period, the EU supports an inclusive, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned transition, guided by the respect for international law, human rights, fundamental freedoms, pluralism and tolerance among all components of Syrian society.

    The EU welcomes the interim authorities’ recent first steps towards an inclusive transition, such as the National Dialogue Conference, the announcement of the new transitional government on 29 March 2025 and the agreement with the Syrian Democratic Forces. The EU was gravely alarmed by the recent violent events in the coastal areas and strongly condemned the crimes committed against civilians[2]. In this context, it welcomed the swift establishment of an investigative committee to hold all perpetrators accountable. The EU will remain attentive to the statements but more importantly the actions of the new authorities in ensuring the protection and fundamental freedoms of all Syrians, without distinction.

    • [1] See the press release of 18 March 2025: https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/03/18/brussels-ix-conference-on-standing-with-syria-meeting-the-needs-for-a-successful-transition-joint-press-statement/.
    • [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/03/11/syria-statement-by-the-high-representative-on-behalf-of-the-european-union-on-the-recent-wave-of-violence/.
    Last updated: 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 15, 2025
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