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Category: Middle East

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Mullin Applauds President Trump’s Trip to the Middle East, Slams Democrat Senator Chris Murphy for his Hypocrisy on Fox Business

    US Senate News:

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

    ICYMI: Senator Mullin Applauds President Trump’s Trip to the Middle East, Slams Democrat Senator Chris Murphy for his Hypocrisy on Fox Business

    Washington, D.C. – On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) joined Fox Business’ “Varney & Company”  to discuss President Trump’s visit to the Middle East and Democrat Senator Chris Murphy’s (D-CT) blatant hypocrisy. Highlights below.

    Sen. Mullin’s full interview can be found here.
    On President Trump possibly attending the upcoming meeting between Russia and Ukraine:
    “The President is being recognized around the world as the chief dealmaker, and Zelensky is very smart by saying he wants him at the table. However, there’s some real differences in what the proposal for a peace deal that Zelensky has put on the table and what Putin has put on the table, and unless there’s actually a path forward to possibly getting a peace deal, I don’t see President Trump getting there. However, if President Trump showed up, I would say that there’s probably a 90% chance that a peace deal would be part of the deal before he left.”
    On Senator Chris Murphy’s hypocrisy:  
    “First of all, I have to address Chris Murphy here, because Chris Murphy is a man that lacks integrity at this point. I could understand if Chris was willing to call out the Bidens when they set up 20 plus shell companies to funnel millions, literally over $25 million through, which had no assets coming from foreign entities, just simply to have access to then, at that time, the Vice President Biden and President Biden when he was in office.”
    “If Chris Murphy wants to actually show that he has integrity, then call it for what it is. The fact is, he’s willing to do and say whatever it takes to actually get the nod from the Democrats to run for President in 2028. That’s all Chris Murphy is doing. He’s auditioning right now. And what can he talk about, right? He can’t talk about the successes of President Trump. He can’t talk the fact that President Trump is actually restructuring the tariff deals that’s going to put our economy and our future workers in the driver’s seat again, which we’ve been neglecting for the last 30 years. He can’t talk about the rally of the stock market. He can’t talk about the foreign affairs that President Trump is taking by peace through strength instead of Biden’s, peace through appeasement.”
    On American leadership returning to the Middle East:
    “And what is happening right now with President Trump going to the Middle East, is the Middle East is begging for a leader. We saw a lackluster leader in Biden when he was president, and after the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, we left a lot of our partners in the Middle East holding a bag saying, ‘Where is the United States?’ Remember, UAE was the only country in the Middle East that actually fought along with us in Afghanistan… And what did the Biden administration do when they got in office? They pulled out of the F-35 bill that President Trump put in place. What did we do to Saudi Arabia? Instead of negotiating with Saudi Arabia with arms deals, we started negotiating with Iran and gave them billions of dollars on a, literally, pallet that we flew there in an Air Force plane. It is absurd.”
    “President Trump, right now is restructuring that order, saying our friends and allies in the Middle East, we’re here for you, and we want to show our gratitude and appreciation for what you’ve done for us and hopefully normalize relationships inside the Middle East, with Israel and Saudi Arabia.”
    On the 747 jet from Qatar:
    “The way the Left is blowing this up is just to distract from the success that President Trump has had in his 120 days in office. This is an absolute nothing burger, as we would say, and the fact that they’re making a big deal out of this is absurd. I want to point out something too that a lot of people isn’t talking about the negotiation on the 747 was actually started underneath the Biden administration, but they couldn’t close the deal. There’s a whole lot more to the story that we can get to at a different point but the fact that they’re wanting to gift it to the United States, we would be absolutely absurd not to take the gift.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Light is the science of the future – the Africans using it to solve local challenges

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Andrew Forbes, Professor, University of the Witwatersrand

    Light-based technologies have wide practical applications. Wikimedia Commons, CC BY

    Light is all around us, essential for one of our primary senses (sight) as well as life on Earth itself. It underpins many technologies that affect our daily lives, including energy harvesting with solar cells, light-emitting-diode (LED) displays and telecommunications through fibre optic networks.

    The smartphone is a great example of the power of light. Inside the box, its electronic functionality works because of quantum mechanics. The front screen is an entirely photonic device: liquid crystals controlling light. The back too: white light-emitting diodes for a flash, and lenses to capture images.

    We use the word photonics, and sometimes optics, to capture the harnessing of light for new applications and technologies. Their importance in modern life is celebrated every year on 16 May with the International Day of Light.

    Scientists on the African continent, despite the resource constraints they work under, have made notable contributions to photonics research. Some of these have been captured in a recent special issue of the journal Applied Optics. Along with colleagues in this field from Morocco and Senegal, we introduced this collection of papers, which aims to celebrate excellence and show the impact of studies that address continental issues.

    A spotlight on photonics in Africa

    Africa’s history in formal optics stems back thousands of years, with references to lens design already recorded in ancient Egyptian writings.

    In more recent times, Africa has contributed to two Nobel prizes based on optics. Ahmed Zewail (Egyptian born) watched the ultrafast processes in chemistry with lasers (1999, Nobel Prize for Chemistry) and Serge Harouche (Moroccan born) studied the behaviour of individual particles of light, photons (2012, Nobel Prize for Physics).

    Unfortunately, the African optics story is one of pockets of excellence. The highlights are as good as anywhere else, but there are too few of them to put the continent on the global optics map. According to a 2020 calculation done for me by the Optical Society of America, based on their journals, Africa contributes less than 1% to worldwide journal publications with optics or photonics as a theme.

    Yet there are great opportunities for meeting continental challenges using optics. Examples of areas where Africans can innovate are:

    • bridging the digital divide with modern communications infrastructure

    • optical imaging and spectroscopy for improvements in agriculture and monitoring climate changes

    • harnessing the sun with optical materials for clean energy

    • bio-photonics to solve health issues

    • quantum technologies for novel forms of communicating, sensing, imaging and computing.

    The papers in the special journal issue touch on a diversity of continent-relevant topics.

    One is on using optics to communicate across free-space (air) even in bad weather conditions. This light-based solution was tested using weather data from two African cities, Alexandria in Egypt and Setif in Algeria.

    Another paper is about tiny quantum sources of quantum entanglement for sensing. The authors used diamond, a gem found in South Africa and more commonly associated with jewellery. Diamond has many flaws, one of which can produce single photons as an output when excited. The single photon output was split into two paths, as if the particle went both left and right at the same time. This is the quirky notion of entanglement, in this case, created with diamonds. If an object is placed in any one path, the entanglement can detect it. Strangely, sometimes the photons take the left-path but the object is in the right-path, yet still it can be detected.



    Read more:
    Quantum entanglement: what it is, and why physicists want to harness it

    One contributor proposes a cost-effective method to detect and classify harmful bacteria in water.

    New approaches in spectroscopy (studying colour) for detecting cell health; biosensors to monitor salt and glucose levels in blood; and optical tools for food security all play their part in optical applications on the continent.

    Another area of African optics research that has important applications is the use of optical fibres for sensing the quality of soil and its structural integrity. Optical fibres are usually associated with communication, but a modern trend is to use the existing optical fibre already laid to sense for small changes in the environment, for instance, as early warning systems for earthquakes. The research shows that conventional fibre can also be used to tell if soil is degrading, either from lack of moisture or some physical shift in structure (weakness or movement). It is an immediately useful tool for agriculture, building on many decades of research.

    The diverse range of topics in the collection shows how creative researchers on the continent are in using limited resources for maximum impact. The high orientation towards applications is probably also a sign that African governments want their scientists to work on solutions to real problems rather than purely academic questions. A case in point is South Africa, which has a funded national strategy (SA QuTI) to turn quantum science into quantum technology and train the workforce for a new economy.

    Towards a brighter future

    For young science students wishing to enter the field, the opportunities are endless. While photonics has no discipline boundaries, most students enter through the fields of physics, engineering, chemistry or the life sciences. Its power lies in the combination of skills, blending theoretical, computational and experimental, that are brought to bear on problems. At a typical photonics conference there are likely to be many more industry participants than academics. That’s a testament to its universal impact in new technologies, and the employment opportunities for students.

    The last century was based on electronics and controlling electrons. This century will be dominated by photonics, controlling photons.

    Professor Zouheir Sekkat of University Mohamed V, Rabat, and director of the Pole of Optics and Photonics within MAScIR of University Mohamed VI Polytechnic Benguerir, Morocco, contributed to this article.

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

    – ref. Light is the science of the future – the Africans using it to solve local challenges – https://theconversation.com/light-is-the-science-of-the-future-the-africans-using-it-to-solve-local-challenges-256031

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Michigan Man Arrested and Charged with Attempting to Attack Military Base on Behalf of ISIS

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    A Melvindale man – and former member of the Michigan Army National Guard – was arrested today after he attempted to carry out a plan to conduct a mass-shooting at a U.S. military base in Warren, Michigan, on behalf of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a foreign terrorist organization.

    Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed Said, 19, is charged in a criminal complaint with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and distributing information related to a destructive device.

    “This defendant is charged with planning a deadly attack on a U.S. military base here at home for ISIS,” said Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “Thanks to the tireless efforts of law enforcement, we foiled the attack before lives were lost. We will not hesitate to bring the full force of the Department to find and prosecute those who seek to harm our men and women in the military and to protect all Americans.”

    “ISIS is a brutal terrorist organization which seeks to kill Americans. Helping ISIS or any other terrorist organization prepare or carry out acts of violence is not only a reprehensible crime – it is a threat to our entire nation and way of life,” said U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. for the Eastern District of Michigan. “Our office will not tolerate such crimes or threats, and we will use the full weight of the law against anyone who engages in terrorism.”

    “The defendant allegedly tried to carry out an attack on a military facility in support of ISIS, which was disrupted thanks to the good work of the FBI and our partners,” said Assistant Director Donald M. Holstead of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division. “The FBI is steadfast in our commitment to detect and stop terrorist plans aimed at the American homeland or at U.S. interests overseas.”

    “The arrest of this former soldier is a sobering reminder of the importance of our counterintelligence efforts to identify and disrupt those who would seek to harm our nation,” said Brig. Gen. Rhett R. Cox, the commanding general of Army Counterintelligence Command. “I commend the tireless work of our special agents and FBI partners who worked together to investigate and apprehend this individual. We will continue to collaborate with our partners to prevent similar incidents in the future. We urge all soldiers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to their chain of command, as the safety and security of our Army and our nation depends on our collective efforts to prevent insider threats.”

    According to the complaint, Said informed two undercover law enforcement officers of a plan he had devised and formulated to conduct a mass-shooting at the U.S. Army’s Tank-Automotive & Armaments Command (TACOM) facility at the Detroit Arsenal in Warren, Michigan. In April 2025, the two undercover officers indicated they intended to carry out Said’s plan at the direction of ISIS. In response, Said provided material assistance to the attack plan, including providing armor-piercing ammunition and magazines for the attack, flying his drone over TACOM to conduct operational reconnaissance, training the undercover employees on firearms and the construction of Molotov cocktails for use during the attack, and planning numerous details of the attack including how to enter TACOM and which building to target.

    On May 13 – the scheduled day of the attack – Said was arrested after he traveled to an area near TACOM and launched his drone in support of the attack plan. He will make his initial court appearance today in the Eastern District of Michigan. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will be asking the court to hold Said in pretrial detention because of his danger to the community and the risk that he will flee.         

    Based on the charges in the complaint, Said faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count if convicted.

    The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas Salzenstein for the Eastern District of Michigan and Trial Attorneys John Cella and Charles Kovats of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

    A complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: Michigan Man Arrested and Charged with Attempting to Attack Military Base on Behalf of ISIS

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    A Melvindale man – and former member of the Michigan Army National Guard – was arrested today after he attempted to carry out a plan to conduct a mass-shooting at a U.S. military base in Warren, Michigan, on behalf of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a foreign terrorist organization.

    Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed Said, 19, is charged in a criminal complaint with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization and distributing information related to a destructive device.

    “This defendant is charged with planning a deadly attack on a U.S. military base here at home for ISIS,” said Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “Thanks to the tireless efforts of law enforcement, we foiled the attack before lives were lost. We will not hesitate to bring the full force of the Department to find and prosecute those who seek to harm our men and women in the military and to protect all Americans.”

    “ISIS is a brutal terrorist organization which seeks to kill Americans. Helping ISIS or any other terrorist organization prepare or carry out acts of violence is not only a reprehensible crime – it is a threat to our entire nation and way of life,” said U.S. Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. for the Eastern District of Michigan. “Our office will not tolerate such crimes or threats, and we will use the full weight of the law against anyone who engages in terrorism.”

    “The defendant allegedly tried to carry out an attack on a military facility in support of ISIS, which was disrupted thanks to the good work of the FBI and our partners,” said Assistant Director Donald M. Holstead of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division. “The FBI is steadfast in our commitment to detect and stop terrorist plans aimed at the American homeland or at U.S. interests overseas.”

    “The arrest of this former soldier is a sobering reminder of the importance of our counterintelligence efforts to identify and disrupt those who would seek to harm our nation,” said Brig. Gen. Rhett R. Cox, the commanding general of Army Counterintelligence Command. “I commend the tireless work of our special agents and FBI partners who worked together to investigate and apprehend this individual. We will continue to collaborate with our partners to prevent similar incidents in the future. We urge all soldiers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to their chain of command, as the safety and security of our Army and our nation depends on our collective efforts to prevent insider threats.”

    According to the complaint, Said informed two undercover law enforcement officers of a plan he had devised and formulated to conduct a mass-shooting at the U.S. Army’s Tank-Automotive & Armaments Command (TACOM) facility at the Detroit Arsenal in Warren, Michigan. In April 2025, the two undercover officers indicated they intended to carry out Said’s plan at the direction of ISIS. In response, Said provided material assistance to the attack plan, including providing armor-piercing ammunition and magazines for the attack, flying his drone over TACOM to conduct operational reconnaissance, training the undercover employees on firearms and the construction of Molotov cocktails for use during the attack, and planning numerous details of the attack including how to enter TACOM and which building to target.

    On May 13 – the scheduled day of the attack – Said was arrested after he traveled to an area near TACOM and launched his drone in support of the attack plan. He will make his initial court appearance today in the Eastern District of Michigan. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will be asking the court to hold Said in pretrial detention because of his danger to the community and the risk that he will flee.         

    Based on the charges in the complaint, Said faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count if convicted.

    The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas Salzenstein for the Eastern District of Michigan and Trial Attorneys John Cella and Charles Kovats of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

    A complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Hola Prime and Pro Basketball Player Karl-Anthony Towns Team up for ‘Speed is Success’ Campaign, Redefining Prop Trading

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, NY, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Hola Prime, a leading global proprietary trading firm, is proud to announce Basketball Champion, Karl Anthony Towns as its first-ever brand ambassador. This partnership marks a significant moment in Hola Prime’s journey, highlighting its commitment to reshaping modern prop trading around what truly matters – speed, performance, discipline, and fairness.

    The announcement coincides with the launch of Hola Prime’s new brand campaign, ‘Speed is Success’, produced by one of the top agencies. The campaign draws a compelling parallel between elite sports and trading – in both, speed is not just an advantage, but the edge. The cinematic film captures how success depends on reacting swiftly, thinking clearly under pressure, and executing with discipline, whether on the court or in the market.

    “At Hola Prime, we have always believed that trading, at its core, is a performance profession,” said Somesh Kapuria, Founder and CEO of Hola Prime. “It’s not about luck or shortcuts. It’s about building skill, managing risk, staying calm under pressure, and performing when it matters most. Karl-Anthony Towns personifies these values. His career reflects what we encourage in our traders – consistency, resilience, and the courage to keep improving every day. And Hola Prime compliments their skills with a fair and transparent trading environment, and super fast payouts.” Explaining his decision to collaborate with Hola Prime, Karl-Anthony Towns said, “What drew me to Hola Prime is how they’re flipping the script – not just in finance, but in how people see trading,” said Karl-Anthony Towns. “As a pro athlete, I know what it means to bet on yourself, and that’s exactly what Hola Prime is about, so I’m happy to be their first ambassador and to help bring that mindset to the next generation.”

    Hola Prime’s decision to collaborate with an elite athlete reflects its belief that trading, like sports, rewards those who move fast, think fast, and execute fast. It’s a natural extension of its trader-centric approach – creating a platform where individuals thrive through speed, strategy, and discipline.

    With innovations like transparent pricing, under-one-hour payouts, one-on-one mentorship, and clear trading rules, Hola Prime is redefining trading speed from execution to earnings. The ‘Speed is Success’ campaign champions a new era of fair, fast, and performance-driven trading – empowering individuals to thrive through agility, skill, and accountability.

    The partnership with Towns positions Hola Prime as a standout in a saturated market – more than just a platform, it is a movement. With the star power of a professional basketball giant and the soul of a fintech disruptor, Hola Prime is redefining what trading looks like in 2025 and beyond.

    Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/yE0Mj3BIBhc?si=ie_IEyAYMRbh471N

    About Hola Prime

    Hola Prime is a global proprietary trading firm with offices in the UK, Hong Kong, Cyprus, Dubai, and India. It supports a diverse community of traders across 175+ countries, offering access to over 150 financial instruments across multiple trading platforms. The firm is known for its structured approach to risk management, transparency, and trader-centric operations. Learn more at holaprime.com.

    Social Links

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holaprime_global/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtVEJa1Ml132Be7tnk-DjeQ

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hola-prime/?viewAsMember=true

    X: https://x.com/HolaPrimeGlobal

    Discord: https://discord.gg/TJ7TcHPXBf

    Quora: https://www.quora.com/profile/HolaPrime/

    Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/HolaPrime/

    Medium: https://medium.com/@social_46267

    Media Contact

    Company: Hola Prime

    Contact: Media Team

    Email: marketing@holaprime.com

    Website: https://holaprime.com/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: MSF denounces deliberate humanitarian catastrophe caused by siege on Gaza

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    The US-Israel proposition to control the distribution of supplies in Gaza, Palestine, under the guise of humanitarian aid raises grave humanitarian, ethical, security and legal concerns, says Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Making aid conditional on forced displacement and vetting of the population is another tool in the ongoing campaign of ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian population. MSF firmly rejects and condemns any plan that further reduces availability of aid and subjugates it to Israeli military occupation objectives.

    We are witnessing, in real time, the creation of conditions for the eradication of Palestinian lives in Gaza, says MSF.

    The obstruction of humanitarian aid is a direct violation of UN Security Council Resolution 2720, which calls for the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians. Claims that aid is being diverted by Hamas remain unverified and in no way justify such measures. As the occupying power, Israel must facilitate impartial humanitarian assistance for the population in need.

    UN, EU member states, and all those with influence over Israel must urgently use their political and economic leverage to stop the instrumentalisation of aid. Humanitarian supplies, food, fuel and medicines must be allowed to reach the population of Gaza now.

    Since Israel’s resumption of attacks and its total blockade of aid on 2 March, Gaza has become a hell on earth for Palestinians. The survival of Palestinians lies at the mercy of Israeli authorities, who are denying the entire population access to food, water, medical care and shelter. Israel continues to pursue its campaign of ethnic cleansing by deliberately destroying the conditions necessary for life.

    Organisations including World Central Kitchen and the World Food Programme (WFP) have announced that they have no more food stocks available in Gaza: most community kitchens and bakeries have closed. MSF medical teams in Gaza City have seen a 32 per cent increase in the number of patients presenting with malnutrition over the past two weeks.

    Dwindling fuel stocks are limiting the ability to desalinate and distribute water. Those health facilities that still function – already critically inadequate in number and capacity for the population – are still being attacked and are suffering from rapidly diminishing stocks of medications and other essential supplies. MSF teams in Gaza have received no supplies for 11 weeks and face critical shortages of essential medical items such as sterile compresses and sterile gloves.

    Israel’s evacuation orders and established no-go military zones now cover 70 per cent of Gaza. The population has been forcibly transferred from one place to another, while not a single area of Gaza has been spared from attacks. The desperateness of the situation is such that MSF teams have treated and discharged patients only to see them return with new injuries.

    Israel’s plan to instrumentalise aid is a cynical response to the very humanitarian crisis they created. If they wished, Israel and its allies could lift the blockade today and let humanitarian aid reach all those in Gaza whose survival depends on it.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE: Middle East visit yields fruitful results and elevates Hong Kong’s relations with Qatar and Kuwait to new level (with photos/videos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (May 14) led a business delegation comprising representatives from Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises to continue its visit programme to Kuwait. He met with representatives of the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA) and exchanged views with local political and business leaders. He witnessed the achievement of multiple outcomes of co-operation between government departments, enterprises and organisations of Hong Kong, the Mainland and Kuwait, including the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs). He also visited a local enterprise.
     
    In the morning, Mr Lee met with the Director General of the KDIPA, Dr Meshaal Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, to learn about Kuwait’s strategies and achievements in attracting business and investment. Mr Lee noted that last year, Kuwait was Hong Kong’s sixth-largest trading partner in the Middle East, and both places have significant room for development in trade and business between the two places. Hong Kong will continue to serve as a bridge to assist enterprises in going global and attracting external investment, welcoming Kuwaiti enterprises to leverage Hong Kong’s world-class financing support and professional services to explore international markets.
     
    Mr Lee later attended a business luncheon cohosted by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Dubai and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, where he delivered a speech to near 300 local business leaders promoting Hong Kong’s business advantages and development opportunities. He highlighted that the merchandise trade between Hong Kong and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) reached nearly US$20 billion last year, an increase of over 53 per cent in the past four years, while Hong Kong’s merchandise trade with Kuwait last year amounted to US$200 million, up more than 20 per cent from the previous year. Hong Kong is an international financial centre and the world’s largest offshore Renminbi business hub. Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises can complement each other’s strengths. Hong Kong will give full play to its role as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” to deepen international exchanges and co-operation. Mr Lee added that he believes the ties and co-operation between Hong Kong and Kuwait will continue to flourish.
     
    At the luncheon, government departments, enterprises, and organisations from Hong Kong, the Mainland, and Kuwait exchanged and announced 24 MOUs and co-operation agreements, covering areas such as economy and trade, investment, financial services, technology, legal co-operation, cargo clearance and flow, aviation, and post-secondary education.
     
    In the afternoon, Mr Lee and the delegation visited Zain Group, a major mobile telecommunications company, to learn about its business in innovative technologies and digital communications, and exchanged views with company representatives on topics such as drones, AI, and smart city development. Mr Lee remarked that Hong Kong is actively developing into an international innovation and technology centre, and he welcomes the company to invest and pursue co-operation opportunities in Hong Kong.
     
    In the evening, Mr Lee will host a dinner for members of the business delegation comprising representatives from Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises to thank them for their active participation in the programme of the past four days and for working together to explore co-operation opportunities for Hong Kong and the Mainland in the Middle East.
     
    Concluding the visit, Mr Lee said that the business delegation comprising representatives from Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises, which he led to visit Qatar and Kuwait, has yielded fruitful results. He mentioned that the Middle East visit successfully made achievements in six areas, namely:

    1. further strengthening the relationship between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government and the governments of Qatar and Kuwait, and building consensus for collaboration;
    2. reaching a total of 59 MOUs and agreements, laying a diversified foundation;
    3. leveraging Hong Kong’s strengths under the “one country, two systems” principle in connecting the Mainland and the world, deepening international exchanges and co-operation, and demonstrating the synergistic power of the complementary advantages between Hong Kong and the Mainland;
    4. further building relations with the GCC countries to explore greater business opportunities;
    5. deepening mutual understanding and strengthening commercial and trading networks; and
    6. further enhancing cultural exchanges with the GCC countries.

     
    Mr Lee said that Hong Kong has the distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world, noting that the Middle East countries are actively diversifying risks and seeking investment opportunities in China and the HKSAR, which aligns with the global economic shift towards the East. The opportunities in Hong Kong are limitless. This Middle East visit has elevated Hong Kong’s relations with Qatar and Kuwait to a new level, bringing more business opportunities to Hong Kong.
     
    Mr Lee will return to Hong Kong tomorrow (May 15).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Micropolis Begins Testing Phase in AI and Robotics Infrastructure for SEE Holding’s Sustainable City 2.0

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Micropolis Holding Co. (“Micropolis” or the “Company”) (NYSE: MCRP), a pioneer in unmanned ground vehicles and AI-driven security solutions, today announced it has commenced the testing phase of its collaboration with SEE Holding Ltd at The Sustainable City 2.0 (TSC 2.0) to deploy Micropolis’s advanced robotics platforms, AI-powered surveillance systems, smart mobility applications, and edge computing nodes across the next generation of Sustainable City projects.

    The Sustainable City is SEE Holding’s globally recognized model of a next-generation city designed to harness intelligent systems to enhance performance, efficiency, and everyday lifestyle and to provide a framework for achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

    This is the latest step in the strategic collaboration between Micropolis and SEE Holding following the Memorandum of Understanding signed in April. The deployment will encompass integrated command systems for security operation, autonomous fleets and smart mobility applications, edge computing, and computer vision technologies.

    “Deploying our technologies throughout The Sustainable City 2.0 marks a significant milestone for our company,” said Fareed Aljawhari, CEO of Micropolis Holding Co. “This initial phase will demonstrate how our AI-driven solutions can seamlessly integrate with net-zero principles, enhancing safety, efficiency, and quality of life for residents.”

    A joint R&D program is also underway to advance Micropolis’s sustainable urban technologies, aimed at driving operational efficiency, resident experience, and environmental performance across SEE Holding’s global sustainable city projects.

    About Micropolis Holding Co.
    Micropolis is a UAE-based company specializing in the design, development, and manufacturing of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), AI systems, and smart infrastructure for urban, security, and industrial applications. The Company’s vertically integrated capabilities cover everything from mechatronics and embedded systems to AI software and high-level autonomy.

    For more information please visit www.micropolis.ai.

    About SEE Holding
    SEE Holding, is a UAE-based sustainably focused global holding group that designs, invests in, and builds sustainable infrastructures and cities through its three operational verticals: SEE Solutions, SEE Developers, and SEE Engineering.

    Driven by its purpose of spearheading a net zero emissions future and achieving the 2050 UN targets, SEE Holding develops inclusive and sustainable communities that prioritize education, sports, healthcare, and overall well-being as part of its commitment to social, environmental and economic impact. SEE Holding currently has projects in the UAE across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, as well as in Oman.

    For more information, please visit us on: https://seeholding.com

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements may include words such as “anticipate”, “estimate”, “expect”, “project”, “plan”, “intend”, “believe”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “can have”, “likely” and other words and terms of similar meaning. Forward-looking statements represent Micropolis’ current expectations regarding future events and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those implied by the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the uncertainties related to market conditions and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the registration statement filed by the Company with the SEC. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

    Investor Contact:
    KCSA Strategic Communications
    Valter Pinto, Managing Director
    PH: (212) 896-1254
    Valter@KCSA.com

    Media Contact:
    Jessica Starman
    media@elev8newmedia.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6ebe2e39-9f87-4709-bd4f-cae5804c2b03

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Silynxcom Announces Record Annual Revenue of Approximately $9.1 million in 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Netanya, Israel, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silynxcom Ltd. (NYSE American: SYNX) (“Silynxcom” or the “Company”), a manufacturer and developer of ruggedized tactical communication headset devices, has released its consolidated financial results for the full year period ended December 31, 2024. 

    Key Financial Highlights for 2024:

    • Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased to a record of $9.1 million, up approximately 18% from the previous year. This growth reflects the Company’s ongoing expansion and product adoption.
       
    • Cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2024 totaled $3.2 million.
       
    • Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2024 amounted to approximately $3.8 million, up 17% compared to $3.2 million from the same period in the previous year.

    Recent Corporate Highlights:

    • On April 2, 2025, the Company announced the closing of underwritten public offering of, for gross proceeds of approximately $2.9 million, before deducting underwriting discounts and offering expenses.
       
    • Entry into drone detection technology- the Company introduced an armored personnel carrier headset that enhances battlefield awareness by detecting drone noise while maintaining hearing protection.
       
    • Received $10 Million in orders from the Israel Defense Forces Since October 7, 2023.
       
    • Asia Pacific Growth- expanded sales operations in the Asia Pacific region.
       
    • Enhanced its position as a market innovator with new orders from militaries, special units and police departments worldwide.
       
    • Advanced its revolutionary in-ear communication solution with real-time vital signs monitoring.
       
    • Successfully completed field trials for its innovative product, aimed at boosting situational awareness and safety for armored personnel carrier crews and other heavy military vehicles, with a military force in Asia.

    The Company has filed its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 (the “Annual Report”) with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), which can be accessed on its website at https://www.silynxcom.com/. Shareholders may request, free of charge, a hard copy of the Annual Report, which includes Silynxcom’s complete audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024, by contacting ir@silynxcom.com.

    About Silynxcom Ltd.

    Silynxcom Ltd. develops, manufactures, markets, and sells ruggedized tactical communication headset devices as well as other communication accessories, all of which have been field-tested and combat-proven. The Company’s in-ear headset devices, or In-Ear Headsets, are used in combat, the battlefield, riot control, demonstrations, weapons training courses, and on the factory floor. The In-Ear Headsets seamlessly integrate with third party manufacturers of professional-grade ruggedized radios that are used by soldiers in combat or by police officers in leading military and law enforcements units. The Company’s In-Ear Headsets also fit tightly into the protective gear to enable users to speak and hear clearly and precisely while they are protected from the hazardous sounds of combat, riots or dangerous situations. The sleek, lightweight, In-Ear Headsets include active sound protection to eliminate unsafe sounds, while maintaining ambient environmental awareness, giving their customers 360° situational awareness. The Company works closely with its customers and seek to improve the functionality and quality of the Company’s products based on actual feedback from soldiers and police officers “in the field.” The Company sells its In-Ear Headsets and communication accessories directly to military forces, police and other law enforcement units. The Company also deals with specialized networks of local distributors in each locale in which it operates and has developed key strategic partnerships with radio equipment manufacturers.

    For additional information about the company please visit: https://silynxcom.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other federal securities laws and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on May 13, 2025, and other documents filed with or furnished to the SEC which are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company cautions you not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    Capital Markets & IR Contact

    Michal Efraty
    ir@silynxcom.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Tariff-related disruptions to outweigh other oil and gas themes, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Tariff-related disruptions to outweigh other oil and gas themes, says GlobalData

    Posted in Oil & Gas

    US tariffs and energy security are expected to remain the focal points for oil and gas trade in 2025. Tariff-induced trade tensions might exert downward pressure on the US and global economy in the near term, potentially affecting the energy demand. It is therefore important for the industry to assess the impact of macroeconomic themes of tariffs, along with geopolitics, and supply chain while charting out its growth plans, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s thematic report, “Top 20 Oil & Gas Themes – 2025,” identifies the top 20 themes that will impact the oil and gas industry in 2025. Besides macro themes, the ones enabling the transition towards clean energy, such as renewables, low-carbon hydrogen, carbon capture and storage (CCS), and electric vehicles (EV) are expected to have a potential impact on oil and gas operations in 2025 and beyond.

    Ravindra Puranik, Oil and Gas Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The US government initially imposed hefty import tariffs on most countries in line with their respective trade deficits, which were later normalized at 10% for a period of 90 days. As a result, the global economic forecast is clouded by the frequent changes in the US tariffs and the prospect of retaliatory rate increases from affected trading partners, especially China.”

    The industry has largely recovered from the geopolitical developments since 2022 that had vastly impacted global supply chains. While the global oil demand is anticipated to grow in 2025, fueled by consistent economic expansion in Asia, the stability of supply hinges on geopolitical risks and the production strategies of OPEC+ nations.

    Puranik adds: “A resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, along with incremental increases in OPEC+ output post-April 2025, could ensure adequate market supply, even in the face of stringent US sanctions on Iran and Venezuela.”

    Traditional oil and gas themes, namely LNG, shale, and integrated refineries will continue to enable companies to remain competitive in the energy market. The report also features disruptive tech themes, such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, cloud computing, cybersecurity, the Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics.

    Puranik concludes: “GlobalData research shows that companies who invest in the right themes become success stories; those who miss the big themes ultimately fail. Given that so many themes are disruptive, it is very easy to be blindsided by industry outsiders invading the sector. In this scenario it is important to understand the biggest themes in the industry and the how they could help companies thrive in the rapidly changing energy dynamics.”

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s press encounter following the Ministerial Meeting on the Future of Peacekeeping

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Minister Wadepuhl, Minister Pistorius,

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    I thank the Government of Germany for hosting impeccably this important meeting in Berlin.

    Germany is a pillar of the multilateral system…

    A strong and generous supporter of the United Nations…

    And an essential partner in our peacekeeping, peacebuilding and humanitarian assistance efforts — with almost 200 German peacekeepers now serving in our ranks.

    I am especially pleased to be here so soon after the new Government took office, and I look forward to building on our partnership in the time ahead.

    The commitment of the German government — and the German people themselves — is strongly reflected in this Ministerial meeting on the future of peacekeeping.

    As I said in my remarks, this year marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations.

    And nothing symbolizes our organization’s commitment to peace more clearly than our Blue Helmets.

    UN Peacekeeping operations are a cornerstone of the United Nations.

    Each and every day, peacekeepers are hard at work in trouble spots around the world.

    Protecting civilians caught in the line of fire.

    Maintaining ceasefires.

    Keeping lifesaving humanitarian aid flowing.

    And building the foundations of peace in countries shattered by conflict.

    Many have paid the ultimate price over the years — 4,400 in all.

    Their memories, and their service in the cause of peace, will never be forgotten.

    Which is why the commitments being made here today and tomorrow are so important.

    I am heartened by the exceptional turn-out of Ministers from across the globe, representing the full range of peacekeeping partners.  

    Now more than ever we need the political support of UN Member States.

    The goal is not just to keep a lid on conflicts — but to build political support for lasting solutions that can build peace.

    Over these two days, we welcome Member States’ statements of support for peacekeeping — as well as their pledges of military and police capabilities, new partnerships and technological support.

    This meeting is also about something more fundamental:

    The future of peacekeeping itself.

    Let me be clear.

    Peacekeeping operations today are facing massive challenges, increasing the dangers that our brave peacekeepers already face.

    A record number of conflicts.

    Deepening division and mistrust.

    Terrorism and transnational crime.

    And the direct targeting of peacekeepers through drones, improvised explosive devices and even social media.

    We need to ask some tough questions about the mandates guiding these operations, and what the outcomes and solutions should look like.

    Every context is different.

    From our operations in Lebanon, the Central African Republic and South Sudan…

    To our partnerships with the African Union, made stronger with the Security Council’s resolution to support peace enforcement missions under the AU’s responsibility, supported by the UN, including through assessed contributions…
     
    We are working to adapt, to tailor and to support our missions to the needs and requirements of each context.

    Unfortunately, peacekeeping operations have been facing serious liquidity problems.
     
    It is absolutely essential that all Member States respect their financial obligations, paying their contributions in full and on time. 
     
    At the same time, we’re moving forward on an ambitious Review of Peace Operations — including peacekeeping — but also the peace enforcing missions that are becoming more and more neccessary has called for by Member States in September’s Pact for the Future.

    We’re examining how to make peace operations more efficient, cost-effective, flexible and resilient — including in contexts where there is no peace to keep.

    Today’s Ministerial is an important part of this work as we share ideas, and explore ways to strengthen this important function for the future.

    Peacekeepers — and the populations they protect — deserve nothing less.

    In their names, I want to express my thanks and appreciation to Germany and all the countries in attendance, for helping us ensure that peacekeeping is fully equipped for today’s realities and tomorrow’s challenges.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: FDCTech Reports Over 58% Year-over-Year Revenue Growth in Q1 2025 Driven by Strong Performance Across All Business Segments

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Q1 2025 Highlights Show Continued Growth and Operating Profitability. 

    Irvine, CA, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FDCTech, Inc. (“FDC” or the “Company,” PINK: FDCT), a fintech-driven firm specializing in acquiring and scaling small to mid-size legacy financial services companies, today announced its unaudited financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025.

    Q1 2025 Financial Highlights

    • Total Revenue: $10.11 million for Q1 2025, up from $6.38 million in Q1 2024 — an increase of 58.59%, driven primarily by the full-period contribution from the Company’s Investment and Brokerage segment (Alchemy Markets Ltd. and Alchemy Prime Ltd.) and strong performance in the Technology segment.
    • Gross Profit: $5.18 million in Q1 2025, compared to $2.34 million in Q1 2024 — a growth of 121.32%.
    • Net Income: $301,002 in Q1 2025, compared to $833,445 in Q1 2024. The prior-year quarter included significant non-operating income.
    • Cash Position: $26.99 million as of March 31, 2025, up from $24.78 million at year-end 2024.
    • Working Capital: $10.08 million as of March 31, 2025, up from $9.10 million at year-end 2024.
    • Net Assets: $15.64 million as of March 31, 2025, up from $14.43 million at year-end 2024.

    Performance by Segment

    Investment and Brokerage

    • Revenue rose to $7.76 million in Q1 2025 from $4.61 million in Q1 2024 — an increase of 69%, following full consolidation of AML and APL operations and increased trading volume across European clients.

    Wealth Management

    • Revenue was $1.53 million in Q1 2025, consistent with $1.51 million in Q1 2024, reflecting stable advisor-led revenues at AD Advisory Services.

    Technology & Software Development

    • Revenue grew 218% to $0.81 million in Q1 2025 from $0.26 million in Q1 2024, driven by new licensing agreements and custom development projects for its proprietary Condor Trading platform.

    Strategic and Operational Highlights

    • Condor Investing & Trading App: The Company continues development and expects commercialization.
    • International Expansion: Opened and staffed new offices in Cyprus, Malta, and the UK. AML continues to onboard EU retail clients and expand product offerings under its MFSA license.
    • Client Growth: AML now services clients from Germany, France, and other EU countries, including the onboarding of over 2,631 clients from Next Markets and 35 clients from a Cypriot-based broker.
    • Product Offering Expansion: AML obtained MFSA authorization under Article 6 of the Investment Services Act to offer equities and money market securities, expanding its income-generating capabilities.

    FDCTech’s management remains committed to building a diversified and scalable financial services company. With a strong balance sheet, improved operational margins, and growth in core segments, the Company is well-positioned for continued expansion in FY 2025.

    Please visit our SEC filings or the Company’s website for more information on the full results and management’s plan.

    FDCTech, Inc.

    FDCTech, Inc. (“FDC”) is a regulatory-grade financial technology infrastructure developer designed to serve the future financial markets. Our clients include regulated and OTC brokerages and prop and algo trading firms of all sizes in forex, stocks, commodities, indices, ETFs, precious metals, and other asset classes. Our growth strategy involves acquiring and integrating small to mid-size legacy financial services companies, leveraging our proprietary trading technology and liquidity solutions to deliver exceptional value to our clients.

    Press Release Disclaimer

    This press release’s statements may be forward-looking statements or future expectations based on currently available information. Such statements are naturally subject to risks and uncertainties. Factors such as the development of general economic conditions, future market conditions, unusual catastrophic loss events, changes in the capital markets, and other circumstances may cause the actual events or results to be materially different from those anticipated by such statements. The Company does not make any representation or warranty, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or updated status of such forward-looking statements or information provided by the third party. Therefore, in no case will the Company and its affiliate companies be liable to anyone for any decision made or action taken in conjunction with the information and/or statements in this press release or any related damages.

    Contact Media Relations
    FDCTech, Inc.
    info@fdctech.com
    www.fdctech.com
    +1 877-445-6047
    200 Spectrum Center Drive, Suite 300,
    Irvine, CA, 92618

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Leo XIV to Eastern Catholics: You are precious. Continue to be outstanding for your faith, hope, and charity, and nothing else

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    VaticanMedia

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – “You are precious”. “The Church needs you”. “Continue to be outstanding for your faith, hope, and charity, and nothing else”. Pope Leo XIV receives in audience a multitude of baptized men and women of the Eastern Catholic Churches in the Paul VI Hall who have come to Rome accompanied by their Patriarchs and Bishops to celebrate their Jubilee of Hope. And he addresses them with an intense and important speech for the entire universal Church. He uses words which highlight the great “contribution that the Christian East can offer us today is immense”. Words that recall the suffering endured by the Eastern Christian in many war scenarios and are transformed into a new, passionate appeal for peace by the new Bishop of Rome, determined in repeating “I will make every effort so that this peace may prevail”, and that “the Holy See is always ready to help bring enemies together, face to face, to talk to one another, so that peoples everywhere may once more find hope and recover the dignity they deserve, the dignity of peace”.The topicality of Leo XIII”Christ is risen. He is truly risen”. Pope Leo thus greets the multitude that today, Wednesday, May 14, welcomed him joyfully in the Nervi Hall, and immediately recalls that with those words, “Eastern Christians in many lands never tire of repeating during the Easter season, as they profess the very heart of our faith and hope, a hope unshakably grounded in the resurrection of Jesus Christ”.Then the Pontiff born in Chicago weaves a speech full of gratitude for the treasure of faith represented by the Churches of the East, a wealth that draws from the source of the faith of the Apostles.Pope Prevost quotes Pope Francis, to repeat that the Eastern Churches with their spiritual heritage “have so much to say to us about the Christian life, synodality, and the liturgy”; he quotes John Paul II, for whom the Churches of the East have “a unique and privileged role as the original setting where the Church was born”, and some of their liturgies still use the language of the Lord Jesus.The Pontiff also disseminates in his speech quotations from Eastern Fathers, from Ephrem the Syrian to Isaac of Nineveh; he also cites Pope Leo XIII, the Pontiff who inspired him in choosing his name as Successor of Peter.Pope Pecci – recalls Leo XIV – “was the first Pope to devote a specific document to the dignity of your Churches, inspired above all by the fact that, in his words, “the work of human redemption began in the East”, and above all “made a heartfelt appeal that the “legitimate variety of Eastern liturgy and discipline… may redound to the great honor and benefit of the Church”. His concern at that time – Pope Prevost recognizes that – “In our own day too, many of our Eastern brothers and sisters, including some of you, have been forced to flee their homelands because of war and persecution, instability and poverty, and risk losing not only their native lands, but also, when they reach the West, their religious identity. As a result, with the passing of generations, the priceless heritage of the Eastern Churches is being lost”. Leo XIII, in his time, took concrete measures to promote the preservation of the rites of the Eastern Catholic Churches, prohibiting missionaries of the Latin Church from “attracting any Eastern-Rite Catholic to the Latin Rite”. With the same concreteness, Pope Leo XIV emphasized today that “in addition to establishing Eastern circumscriptions wherever possible and opportune, there is a need to promote greater awareness among Latin Christians. In this regard, I ask the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches – which I thank for its work – to help me to define principles, norms, and guidelines whereby Latin Bishops can concretely support Eastern Catholics in the diaspora in their efforts to preserve their living traditions and thus, by their distinctive witness, to enrich the communities in which they live”.Familiarity with the MysteryThe help that can come from the East to Christians throughout the world touches the most intimate fibers of their baptismal faith. “We have great need”, Pope Leo recognized, “to recover the sense of mystery that remains alive in your liturgies, liturgies that engage the human person in his or her entirety, that sing of the beauty of salvation and evoke a sense of wonder at how God’s majesty embraces our human frailty”. And “it is likewise important”, continued the US-born Pontiff, “to rediscover, especially in the Christian West, a sense of the primacy of God, the importance of mystagogy and the values so typical of Eastern spirituality: constant intercession, penance, fasting, and weeping for one’s own sins and for those of all humanity (penthos)! It is vital, then, that you preserve your traditions without attenuating them, for the sake perhaps of practicality or convenience, lest they be corrupted by the mentality of consumerism and utilitarianism”.”Your traditions of spirituality,” Pope Leo recalled in one of the most intense passages of his reflection, “are medicinal. In them, the drama of human misery is combined with wonder at God’s mercy, so that our sinfulness does not lead to despair, but opens us to accepting the gracious gift of becoming creatures who are healed, divinized and raised to the heights of heaven.”The peace of Christ and the Manichean “notions”Christians of the East – Pope Leo acknowledged – often find themselves “singing a song of hope even amid the abyss of violence” and amid the horrors of war. “From the Holy Land to Ukraine, from Lebanon to Syria, from the Middle East to Tigray and the Caucasus, how much violence do we see! And rising up from this horror,” the Pontiff continued, “from the slaughter of so many young people, which ought to provoke outrage because lives are being sacrificed in the name of military conquest, there resounds an appeal: the appeal not so much of the Pope, but of Christ himself, who repeats: “Peace be with you!”Looking at the tribulations of the Christians of the East, the Successor of Peter repeated words full of suggestions and referable to the evil roots of all the conflicts that tear the world apart. “Christ’s peace,” said the Bishop of Rome, “is not the sepulchral silence that reigns after conflict; it is not the fruit of oppression, but rather a gift that is meant for all, a gift that brings new life.” After reiterating his and the Holy See’s involvement in safeguarding and making every possible seed of peace flourish, Pope Leo XIV addressed the “leaders of the peoples: let us meet – he said -, let us talk, let us negotiate! War is never inevitable. Weapons can and must be silenced, for they do not resolve problems but only increase them. Those who make history are the peacemakers, not those who sow seeds of suffering. Our neighbours are not first our enemies, but our fellow human beings; not criminals to be hated, but other men and women with whom we can speak. Let us reject” added the Pontiff “the Manichean notions so typical of that mindset of violence that divides the world into those who are good and those who are evil”, adding that “the Church will never tire of repeating: let weapons be silenced. I would like to thank God for all those who, in silence, prayer and self-sacrifice, are sowing seeds of peace. I thank God for those Christians – Eastern and Latin alike – who, above all in the Middle East, persevere and remain in their homelands, resisting the temptation to abandon them. Christians – continued the Bishop of Rome – must be given the opportunity, and not just in words, to remain in their native lands with all the rights needed for a secure existence. Please, let us strive for this!” (GV) (Agenzia Fides, 14/5/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Trump Participates in a Signing Ceremony and an Exchange of Agreements, May 14, 2025

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    Doha, Qatar

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUqZzzZ6d2o

    MIL OSI Video –

  • Trump says he’s still open to attending talks on Ukraine, unsure about Putin

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday said he was still considering whether to attend talks on the war in Ukraine planned for Thursday in Turkey but he does not know whether Russian President Vladimir Putin will go.

    “He’d like me to be there, and that’s a possibility. … I don’t know that he would be there if I’m not there. We’re going to find out,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One en route to Qatar.

    He has said he may visit Turkey for the talks as part of his trip to the Middle East this week. U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday said he was still considering whether to attend talks on the war in Ukraine planned for Thursday in Turkey but he does not know whether Russian President Vladimir Putin will go.

    “He’d like me to be there, and that’s a possibility. … I don’t know that he would be there if I’m not there. We’re going to find out,” Trump said while traveling aboard Air Force One en route to Qatar.

    Trump has said he may visit Turkey for the talks as part of his trip to the Middle East this week. He cited his next stop to the United Arab Emirates on Thursday.

    “We have a very full situation. Now that doesn’t mean I wouldn’t do it to save a lot of lives and come back,” Trump said, according to a pool report from the Washington Post. Trump noted that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio would be at Thursday’s talks in Istanbul.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Tuesday said he would only attend if Putin was also there.

    On Wednesday, the Kremlin said it would send a delegation to Istanbul but did not say who would be representing Moscow.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: D. Trump met with the interim leader of Syria

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    RIYADH, May 14 (Xinhua) — U.S. President Donald Trump met with Syrian interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa here on Wednesday to discuss normalizing bilateral ties and expressed readiness to reach an agreement with Iran.

    D. Trump’s meeting with A. al-Sharaa – the first meeting between the US president and the Syrian leader in several decades – took place on the sidelines of D. Trump’s summit with the leaders of the Persian Gulf countries.

    During the summit, D. Trump noted in his speech that the normalization of relations between the US and Syria began with his meeting with A. al-Sharaa.

    He also called on Syria to join the US-brokered Abraham Accords to normalise relations with Israel, even though the Israeli military has regularly carried out air strikes and ground operations in Syria since the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.

    On Tuesday, D. Trump announced at an investment forum in Saudi Arabia that he would lift sanctions on Syria.

    During the summit with Gulf leaders, the US president also mentioned the ongoing indirect talks with Iran on Tehran’s nuclear program and the lifting of US sanctions.

    “I want to make a deal with Iran… but for that to happen, they [Iran] must stop sponsoring terrorism, stop waging bloody proxy wars, and permanently abandon their goal of building nuclear weapons,” the US president said, calling on “all countries” to comply with the sanctions he had just imposed on Iran, which he called “the most destructive force” in the region.

    Trump’s statements provoked a sharp reaction from Iran – the country’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that Trump was “misleading, incorrectly indicating the true source of the threat.” -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Trump Arrives Amiri Diwan, May 14, 2025

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    Doha, Qatar

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVml898y9mI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: President Trump arrives in Doha, Qatar, and is greeted by Emir of Qatar

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    President Trump arrives in Doha, Qatar, and is greeted by Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3gJETy2n4c

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Gaza: Minister for the Middle East statement, 14 May 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Oral statement to Parliament

    Gaza: Minister for the Middle East statement, 14 May 2025

    Minister for the Middle East Hamish Falconer made a statement to the House of Commons on Gaza.

    Mr Speaker,

    Yesterday, alongside partners, the UK convened a meeting of the UN Security Council in response to the intolerable civilian suffering and humanitarian need in Gaza.

    As I told this House yesterday, Israel’s denial of aid is appalling. 

    Tonnes of food are currently sitting rotting at the Gaza/Israel border, blocked from reaching people who are starving.

    Israeli Ministers have said Israel’s decision to block this aid is a “pressure lever”.

    This is cruel and it is indefensible.

    Overnight yet more Palestinians have been killed in Israeli strikes.

    This must end.

    The message yesterday was clear.

    The world wants Israel to stop and change course immediately.

    With our allies we are telling the Government of Israel:  lift the block on aid entering Gaza now. Enable the UN and all humanitarians to save lives, now. We need an immediate ceasefire, now.

    Humanitarian aid must never be used as a political tool or military tactic. And the UK will not support any aid mechanism that seeks to deliver political or military objectives or puts vulnerable civilians at risk.

    The International Court of Justice case on genocide is ongoing.

     Mr Speaker,

    We support the ICJ. We support its independence.

    The ICJ issued a set of provisional measures in this case and we support those measures.

    Israel has an obligation to implement them.

    It is the UK government’s long-standing position that any formal determination as to whether genocide has occurred is a matter for a competent court, and not for governments or non-judicial bodies.

    The UK is fully committed to upholding our responsibilities under domestic and international law.

    And we have at all times acted in a manner consistent with our legal obligations, including under the Genocide Convention.

    The devastation from this conflict must end.

    Our complete focus is on lifting Israeli restrictions on aid,

    On freeing the hostages held by Hamas,

    On protecting civilians,

    And on restoring the ceasefire.

    We will work urgently with our allies and partners on further pressure to make Israel change course.

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Embrace the process: Master Sgt. Preston Lewis Reflects on service, leadership, legacy at African Lion 2025

    Source: United States Army

    U.S. Army Master Sgt. Preston Lewis, assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), poses for a picture during African Lion 2025 (AL25) at Agadir, Morocco on May 8, 2025. African Lion 25 (AL25), the largest annual military exercise in Africa, brings together over 50 nations, including seven NATO allies and 10,000 troops to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative training in an austere environment that intersects multiple geographic and functional combatant commands. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) on behalf of the U.S. Africa Command, AL25 takes place from April 14 to May 23, 2025, across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia. This large-scale exercise will enhance our ability to work together in complex, multi-domain operations—preparing forces to deploy, fight and win. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Mallett) (Photo Credit: Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Mallett) VIEW ORIGINAL

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    U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF)

    AGADIR, Morocco – On the surface, U.S. Army Master Sgt. Preston Lewis’s role in African Lion 2025 (AL25) might seem procedural—coordinating accountability, awards and human resource (HR) operations across four countries, including 50 multinational partner nations. But behind the spreadsheets, manifests and morning reports is a leader nearing the end of a 20-year journey through some of the most defining environments in the modern U.S. Army.

    For Lewis, currently serving as the Plans, Operations and Personnel Accountability (G1) noncommissioned officer in charge (NCOIC) for U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), AL25 has been both a capstone assignment and a full-circle reflection of what service means.

    “I was assigned to assist in human resource operations, particularly personnel accountability for the entire area of responsibility,” Lewis said. “This is my first time supporting African Lion, and it’s been a great experience—setting the HR conditions and procedures across all spokes of the exercise.”

    A global career, rooted in purpose

    Lewis enlisted from Akron, Ohio, in 2005, beginning a career that would span the globe and multiple operational domains. From fueling helicopters in Korea, to serving as a gunner in Iraq, an inspector general at Fort Knox, and now a senior HR planner in Italy—his breadth of assignments reflects a generation of service shaped by war, reform and transformation.

    U.S. Army Master Sgt. Preston Lewis, assigned to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), poses for a photo during African Lion 2025 (AL25) at Agadir, Morocco, May 8, 2025. African Lion 25 (AL25), the largest annual military exercise in Africa, brings together over 50 nations, including seven NATO allies and 10,000 troops to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative training in an austere environment that intersects multiple geographic and functional combatant commands. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) on behalf of the U.S. Africa Command, AL25 takes place from April 14 to May 23, 2025, across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia. This large-scale exercise will enhance our ability to work together in complex, multi-domain operations—preparing forces to deploy, fight and win. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Mallett) (Photo Credit: Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Mallett) VIEW ORIGINAL

    “I’ve been fortunate to serve all over the world,” Lewis said. “I’ve deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom-Afghanistan, and Atlantic Resolve-Poland. I’ve served as a fueler, a drill sergeant and now as an HR professional. It’s been a journey.”

    He joined SETAF-AF in April 2023 after serving as an inspector general with U.S. Army Cadet Command, then quickly integrated into one of the most operationally agile staff directorates in the theater. At AL25, his work enabled the personnel functions that make a 10,000-troop, 50-nation exercise succeed: accountability, essential personnel services and award recognition planning.

    “Success for the G1 team during AL25 is 100% accountability, timely and accurate HR support and appropriate awards recognition,” he said. “And that’s a team effort—from my leadership to our junior NCOs [noncommissioned officers].”

    Interoperability through friction

    In a joint and multinational environment, personnel accountability is not just a checklist; it is a dynamic, evolving challenge. Working alongside units like the 646th Regional Support Group, U.S. Army Reserve unit under the 103rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command, and coordinating across language and procedural barriers, Lewis and his team had to balance doctrinal processes with real-world adaptability.

    “Interoperability is a daily goal, but the friction it creates is also where the most meaningful growth happens,” he said. “It forces you to communicate better, plan tighter and adjust faster.”

    He credited U.S. Army Lt. Col. Bridgette Bell, G1 division chief, SETAF-AF, and Staff Sgt. Alessandra Johnson, an HR operations NCO with the same unit, for creating an environment where clarity and initiative are standard.

    Leadership, legacy and the long view

    For Lewis, who will soon transition to serve as the brigade human resources NCOIC for the 207th Military Intelligence Brigade, the pace has not slowed. But he is increasingly aware of his next chapter, especially as he watches his son, a newly minted geospatial engineer, begin his own Army career.

    U.S. Army Master Sgt. Preston Lewis, right, stands proudly beside his son, Pfc.Tristin D. Griffin, following Griffin’s Advanced Individual Training graduation at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, April 16, 2025. The moment marked a generational milestone as one Soldier nears the end of a 20-year career, and another begins his own journey in uniform. The image accompanies Lewis’ African Lion 2025 (AL25) feature story on leadership, legacy and service. African Lion 25 (AL25), the largest annual military exercise in Africa, brings together over 50 nations, including seven NATO allies and 10,000 troops to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative training in an austere environment that intersects multiple geographic and functional combatant commands. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) on behalf of the U.S. Africa Command, AL25 takes place from April 14 to May 23, 2025, across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia. This large-scale exercise will enhance our ability to work together in complex, multi-domain operations—preparing forces to deploy, fight and win. (Courtesy photo) (Photo Credit: SETAF Africa) VIEW ORIGINAL

    “My son just graduated AIT [advanced individual training] and wants to become a warrant officer,” he shared proudly. “At the same time, my daughter was inducted into the National Honor Society at Vicenza High School. Seeing them grow reminds me that I’m at the point where legacy matters.”

    That legacy is shared closely with his wife, Teresha, who also serves in the SETAF-AF community as a human resources specialist, Civilian Personnel Division. Together, they have raised a family and built a life anchored in purpose, service and resilience.

    “Preston is the kind of leader who shows up for his people, even when no one’s watching.” said Teresha. “He’s devoted to his team, to our family, and to building something that lasts beyond the uniform.”

    To those who wear a military uniform, including his children, he gives the following advice.

    “Embrace the process. We live in a world of instant gratification, but the journey is the gift,” he said. “The most valuable lessons I’ve learned have come through struggle, reflection and the grind.”

    About SETAF-AF

    U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.

    Follow SETAF-AF on:

    Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn & DVIDS

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Global-e and Shopify sign new multi-year strategic partnership agreement, extending relationship

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PETAH-TIKVA, Israel, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global-e Online Ltd. (Nasdaq: GLBE) the leader of global Direct-To-Consumer eCommerce enablement, and Shopify, a leading commerce technology company, today announced a new 3-year strategic partnership agreement. The new agreement renews the companies’ long-standing strategic partnership for both their 1P (i.e. Shopify Managed Markets) and 3P solutions to empower international direct to consumer e-commerce on the Shopify platform.

    “As the leader in this market, Global-e has been a great partner of ours for over four years now, helping Shopify merchants realize their true global potential,” said Kaz Nejatian, COO of Shopify. “Our renewed agreement enables us to take our offering to the next level and enhance opportunities and optionality for merchants of all sizes, geographies and verticals to grow their global footprint.”

    “In early 2021 we teamed up with Shopify to build a unique native integration which streamlined the way merchants transact with their global audiences. Not long after, we expanded our partnership, as our teams worked hand-in-hand to create the innovative Managed Markets solution, a first-of-its-kind merchant-of-record solution built for self-onboarding,” said Amir Schlachet, Founder and CEO of Global-e. “The new multi-year strategic agreement we have signed will carry our long-standing partnership into the future and enhance the value we can bring to our joint merchants. We look forward to continuing our close work with our partners at Shopify over the coming years as we continue our journey to power better global e-commerce for merchants around the globe.”

    The companies’ new three-year strategic partnership covers both 1P (Shopify Managed Markets) and 3P MoR (Merchant of Record) solutions.

    According to the new agreement, for 1P (Shopify Managed Markets) Global-e will remain the exclusive provider of MoR services for the Shopify branded solution. As part of the agreement, future versions of Managed Markets will leverage Shopify Payments as well as other elements of the Shopify suite of services, thereby further streamlining the merchant experience on international e-commerce, making it even more accessible and intuitive for merchants. Under the new agreement, Shopify and Global-e aim to drive increased adoption of Shopify Managed Markets. As such, the commercial structure will be updated to reflect the revised division of responsibilities between Shopify and Global-e in the provision of the Managed Markets solution.

    Regarding the 3P solution, the new agreement will allow for additional MoR providers to work with Shopify merchants. However, Global-e will remain the preferred partner for MoR services on Shopify, and will enjoy exclusive access to certain key features available on the Shopify platform. Global-e will also benefit from enhanced commercial terms.

    For more information please visit https://investors.global-e.com/

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements
    This press release contains estimates and forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements as contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding our future strategy and projected revenue, GMV, Adjusted EBITDA and other future financial and operational results, growth strategy and plans and objectives of management for future operations, including, among others, expansion in new and existing markets, the launch of large enterprise merchants, and our ongoing partnership with Shopify, are forward-looking statements. As the words “may,” “might,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “target,” “seek,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “contemplate,” “possible” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, though not all forward-looking statements use these words or expressions. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Global-e believes there is a reasonable basis for its expectations and beliefs, but they are inherently uncertain. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this announcement, including but not limited to, our rapid growth and growth rates in recent periods may not be indicative of future growth; our ability to retain existing merchants and to attract new merchants; our ability to anticipate merchant needs or develop or integrate new functionality or enhance our existing platforms to meet those needs; the impact of imposed tariffs or other trade regulations on our business and financial results; our ability to implement and use artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies successfully; our ability to compete in our industry; our reliance on third-parties, including our ability to realize the benefits of any strategic alliances, joint ventures, or partnership arrangements and to integrate our platforms with third-party platforms; our ability to adapt our platform and services for the Shopify platforms; our ability to develop or maintain the functionality of our platforms, including real or perceived errors, failures, vulnerabilities, or bugs in our platforms; our history of net losses; our ability to manage our growth and manage expansion into additional markets and the introduction of new platforms and offerings; our ability to accommodate increased volumes during peak seasons and events; our ability to effectively expand our marketing and sales capabilities; our expectations regarding our revenue, expenses and operations; our ability to operate internationally; our reliance on third-party services, including third-party providers of cross-docking services and third-party data centers, in our platforms and services and harm to our reputation by our merchants’ or third-party service providers’ unethical business practices; our operation as a merchant of record for sales conducted using our platform; regulatory requirements and additional fees related to payment transactions through our e-commerce platforms could be costly and difficult to comply with; compliance and third-party risks related to anti-money laundering, anti-corruption, anti-bribery, regulations, economic sanctions and export control laws and import regulations and restrictions; our business’s reliance on the personal importation model; our ability to securely store personal information of merchants and shoppers; increases in shipping rates; fluctuations in the exchange rate of foreign currencies has impacted and could continue to impact our results of operations; our ability to offer high quality support; our ability to expand the number of merchants using our platforms and increase our GMV and to enhance our reputation and awareness of our platforms; our ability to adapt to emerging or evolving regulatory developments, changing laws, regulations, standards and technological changes related to privacy, data protection, data security and machine learning technology and generative artificial intelligence evolves; our role in the fulfilment chain of the merchants, which may cause third parties to confuse us with the merchants; our ability to establish and protect intellectual property rights; and our use of open-source software which may pose particular risks to our proprietary software technologies; our dependency on our executive officers and other key employees and our ability to hire and retain skilled key personnel, including our ability to enforce non-compete agreements we enter into with our employees; litigation for a variety of claims which we may be subject to; the adoption by merchants of a D2C model; our anticipated cash needs and our estimates regarding our capital requirements and our needs for additional financing; our ability to maintain our corporate culture; our ability to maintain an effective system of disclosure controls and internal control over financial reporting; our ability to accurately estimate judgments relating to our critical accounting policies; changes in tax laws or regulations to which we are subject, including the enactment of legislation implementing changes in taxation of international business activities and the adoption of other corporate tax reform policies; requirements to collect sales or other taxes relating to the use of our platforms and services in jurisdictions where we have not historically done so; global events or conditions in individual markets such as financial and credit market fluctuations, war, climate change, and macroeconomic events; risks relating to our ordinary shares, including our share price, the concentration of our share ownership with insiders, our status as a foreign private issuer, provisions of Israeli law and our amended and restated articles of association and actions of activist shareholders; risks related to our incorporation and location in Israel, including risks related to the ongoing war and related hostilities; and the other risks and uncertainties described in Global-e’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on March 27, 2025 and other documents filed with or furnished by Global-e from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this press release. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information or the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements.

    About Global-E Online Ltd.
    Global-e (Nasdaq: GLBE) is the world’s leading platform enabling and accelerating global, Direct-To-Consumer e-commerce. The chosen partner of over 1,000 brands and retailers across the United States, EMEA and APAC, Global-e makes selling internationally as simple as selling domestically. The company enables merchants to increase the conversion of international traffic into sales by offering online shoppers in over 200 destinations worldwide a seamless, localized shopping experience. Global-e’s end-to-end e-commerce solutions combine best-in-class localization capabilities, big-data best-practice business intelligence models, streamlined international logistics and vast global e-commerce experience, enabling international shoppers to buy seamlessly online and retailers to sell to, and from, anywhere in the world. For more information, please visit: www.global-e.com.

    About Shopify
    Shopify is the leading global commerce company that provides essential internet infrastructure for commerce, offering trusted tools to start, scale, market, and run a retail business of any size. Shopify makes commerce better for everyone with a platform and services that are engineered for speed, customization, reliability, and security, while delivering a better shopping experience for consumers online, in store, and everywhere in between. Shopify powers millions of businesses in more than 175 countries and is trusted by brands such as BarkBox, Vuori, BevMo, Carrier, JB Hi-Fi, Meta, ButcherBox, SKIMS, Supreme, and many more. For more information visit www.shopify.com.

    Investor Contact:
    Global-e: Alan Katz, VP, Investor Relations, IR@global-e.com
    Shopify: Carrie Gillard Director, Investor Relations, IR@shopify.com

    Press Contact:
    Global-e: Sarah Schloss, Headline Media, Globale@headline.media
    Shopify: Stephanie Ross Lead, Communications press@shopify.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Global-e Reports First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PETAH-TIKVA, Israel, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global-e Online Ltd. (Nasdaq: GLBE) the platform powering global direct-to-consumer e-commerce, today reported financial results for the first quarter of 2025.

    “We had another quarter of strong results, demonstrating our ability to grow fast even within macroeconomic turbulent times with Q1 results coming in at or above the midpoints across our guidance. While the market remains volatile with a higher level of uncertainty given the on-going global duty tariff dynamics, our pipeline is very active and we see increased interest in our services.”

    We are also excited about the long term extension of our strategic partnership agreement with Shopify, which will allow us to take this partnership to the next level,” said Amir Schlachet, Founder and CEO of Global-e.”

    Q1 2025 Financial Results

    • GMV1 in the first quarter of 2025 was $1,243 million, an increase of 34% year over year
    • Revenue in the first quarter of 2025 was $189.9 million, an increase of 30% year over year, of which service fees revenue was $84.0 million and fulfillment services revenue was $105.9 million
    • Non-GAAP gross profit2 in the first quarter of 2025 was $86.3 million, an increase of 31% year over year. GAAP gross profit in the first quarter of 2025 was $84.1 million
    • Non-GAAP gross margin2 in the first quarter of 2025 was 45.4%, compared to 45.3% in the first quarter of 2024. GAAP gross margin in the first quarter of 2025 was 44.3%
    • Adjusted EBITDA3 in the first quarter of 2025 was $31.6 million compared to $21.3 million in the first quarter of 2024
    • Net loss in the first quarter of 2025 was $17.9 million compared to $32.1 million in the first quarter of 2024

    Recent Business Highlights

    • Announced a new 3-year strategic partnership agreement with Shopify, renewing the companies’ long-standing relationship for both 1P (i.e. Shopify Managed Markets) and 3P solutions
    • Launched our 3B2C offering allowing merchants to partially mitigate unnecessary price hikes in key destination markets, while avoiding the costs and effort involved in creating a full multi-local setup for specific markets
    • Revamped our Merchant Portal, adding two important Self-Service BI tools for merchants – a real time sales dashboard and a funnel analysis dashboard, and providing easier access to frequently used areas
    • Continued growing with brands across geographies and verticals, including:
      • Europe: Launched Subdued out of Italy and VIBAe footwear, Global-e’s first large merchant based in Finland
      • Sports clubs: Launched with Atletico Madrid in Spain
      • APAC: Multiple merchant launches including Threetimes and Samo Ondoh in Korea, T2Tea and Scarlet & Sam in Australia, Bandai-Namco, United Arrows Tabaya and Sacai in Japan, and many more
      • Expanded with a number of merchants including the launch of Adidas Hong Kong

    Q2 2025 and Full Year Outlook

    Global-e is introducing second quarter guidance and is maintaining the full year guidance as follows:

    Q2 2025 and Full Year Outlook

    Global-e is introducing second quarter guidance and is maintaining the full year guidance as follows:

      Q2 2025   FY 2025   Previous FY 2025
    (in millions)
    GMV (1) $1,387 – $1,427   $6,190 – $6,490   $6,190 – $6,490
    Revenue $204 – $211   $917 – $967   $917 – $967
    Adjusted EBITDA (3) $35 – $39   $179 – $199   $179 – $199

    1 Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) is a key operating metric. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Key Operating Metrics” for additional information regarding this metric.

    2 Non-GAAP Gross profit and Non-GAAP gross margin are non-GAAP financial measures. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Key Operating Metrics” for additional information regarding this metric.

    3 Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for additional information regarding this metric, including the reconciliations to Operating Profit (Loss), its most directly comparable GAAP financial measure. The Company is unable to provide a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to Operating Profit (Loss), its most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, on a forward-looking basis without unreasonable effort because items that impact this GAAP financial measure are not within the Company’s control and/or cannot be reasonably predicted. These items may include, but are not limited to, share-based compensation expenses. Such information may have a significant, and potentially unpredictable impact on the Company’s future financial results.

    Conference Call Information:

    Global-e will host a conference call at 8:00 a.m. ET on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
    The call will be available, live, to interested parties by dialing:

    United States/Canada Toll Free: 1-800-717-1738
    International Toll: 1-646-307-1865
       

    A live webcast will also be available in the Investor Relations section of Global-E’s website at: https://investors.global-e.com/news-events/events-presentations

    Approximately two hours after completion of the live call, an archived version of the webcast will be available on the Investor Relations section of the Company’s web site and will remain available for approximately 30 calendar days.

    The press release with the financial results will be accessible on the Company’s Investor Relations website prior to the conference call.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Key Operating Metrics

    To supplement Global-e’s financial information presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America, or GAAP, Global-e considers certain financial measures and key performance metrics that are not prepared in accordance with GAAP including:

    • Non-GAAP gross profit, which Global-e defines as gross profit adjusted for amortization of acquired intangibles. Non-GAAP gross margin is calculated as Non-GAAP gross profit divided by revenues
    • Adjusted EBITDA, which Global-e defines as net profit (loss) adjusted for income tax (benefit) expenses, financial expenses (income) net, stock based compensation expenses, depreciation and amortization, commercial agreements amortization, amortization of acquired intangibles, merger related contingent consideration, and acquisition related expenses.
    • Free Cash Flow, which Global-e defines as net cash provided by operating activities less the purchase of property and equipment.

    Global-e also uses Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) as a key operating metric. Gross Merchandise Value or GMV is defined as the combined amount we collect from the shopper and the merchant for all components of a given transaction, including products, duties and taxes and shipping.

    The aforementioned key performance indicators and non-GAAP financial measures are used, in conjunction with GAAP measures, by management and our board of directors to assess our performance, including the preparation of Global-e’s annual operating budget and quarterly forecasts, for financial and operational decision-making, to evaluate the effectiveness of Global-e’s business strategies, and as a means to evaluate period-to-period comparisons. These measures are frequently used by analysts, investors and other interested parties to evaluate companies in our industry. We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures are appropriate measures of operating performance because they remove the impact of certain items that we believe do not directly reflect our core operations, and permit investors to view performance using the same tools that we use to budget, forecast, make operating and strategic decisions, and evaluate historical performance.

    Global-e’s definition of Non-GAAP measures may differ from the definition used by other companies and therefore comparability may be limited. In addition, other companies may not publish these metrics or similar metrics. Furthermore, these metrics have certain limitations in that they do not include the impact of certain expenses that are reflected in our consolidated statement of operations that are necessary to run our business. Thus, Non-GAAP measures should be considered in addition to, not as substitutes for, or in isolation from, measures prepared in accordance with GAAP.

    For more information on the non-GAAP financial measures, please see the reconciliation tables provided below. The accompanying reconciliation tables have more details on the GAAP financial measures that are most directly comparable to non-GAAP financial measures and the related reconciliations between these financial measures.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains estimates and forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements as contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding our future strategy and projected revenue, GMV, Adjusted EBITDA and other future financial and operational results, growth strategy and plans and objectives of management for future operations, including, among others, expansion in new and existing markets, the launch of large enterprise merchants, and our ongoing partnership with Shopify, are forward-looking statements. As the words “may,” “might,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “target,” “seek,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “contemplate,” “possible” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, though not all forward-looking statements use these words or expressions. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Global-e believes there is a reasonable basis for its expectations and beliefs, but they are inherently uncertain. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this announcement, including but not limited to, our rapid growth and growth rates in recent periods may not be indicative of future growth; our ability to retain existing merchants and to attract new merchants; our ability to anticipate merchant needs or develop or integrate new functionality or enhance our existing platforms to meet those needs; the impact of imposed tariffs or other trade regulations on our business and financial results; our ability to implement and use artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies successfully; our ability to compete in our industry; our reliance on third-parties, including our ability to realize the benefits of any strategic alliances, joint ventures, or partnership arrangements and to integrate our platforms with third-party platforms; our ability to adapt our platform and services for the Shopify platforms; our ability to develop or maintain the functionality of our platforms, including real or perceived errors, failures, vulnerabilities, or bugs in our platforms; our history of net losses; our ability to manage our growth and manage expansion into additional markets and the introduction of new platforms and offerings; our ability to accommodate increased volumes during peak seasons and events; our ability to effectively expand our marketing and sales capabilities; our expectations regarding our revenue, expenses and operations; our ability to operate internationally; our reliance on third-party services, including third-party providers of cross-docking services and third-party data centers, in our platforms and services and harm to our reputation by our merchants’ or third-party service providers’ unethical business practices; our operation as a merchant of record for sales conducted using our platform; regulatory requirements and additional fees related to payment transactions through our e-commerce platforms could be costly and difficult to comply with; compliance and third-party risks related to anti-money laundering, anti-corruption, anti-bribery, regulations, economic sanctions and export control laws and import regulations and restrictions; our business’s reliance on the personal importation model; our ability to securely store personal information of merchants and shoppers; increases in shipping rates; fluctuations in the exchange rate of foreign currencies has impacted and could continue to impact our results of operations; our ability to offer high quality support; our ability to expand the number of merchants using our platforms and increase our GMV and to enhance our reputation and awareness of our platforms; our ability to adapt to emerging or evolving regulatory developments, changing laws, regulations, standards and technological changes related to privacy, data protection, data security and machine learning technology and generative artificial intelligence evolves; our role in the fulfilment chain of the merchants, which may cause third parties to confuse us with the merchants; our ability to establish and protect intellectual property rights; and our use of open-source software which may pose particular risks to our proprietary software technologies; our dependency on our executive officers and other key employees and our ability to hire and retain skilled key personnel, including our ability to enforce non-compete agreements we enter into with our employees; litigation for a variety of claims which we may be subject to; the adoption by merchants of a D2C model; our anticipated cash needs and our estimates regarding our capital requirements and our needs for additional financing; our ability to maintain our corporate culture; our ability to maintain an effective system of disclosure controls and internal control over financial reporting; our ability to accurately estimate judgments relating to our critical accounting policies; changes in tax laws or regulations to which we are subject, including the enactment of legislation implementing changes in taxation of international business activities and the adoption of other corporate tax reform policies; requirements to collect sales or other taxes relating to the use of our platforms and services in jurisdictions where we have not historically done so; global events or conditions in individual markets such as financial and credit market fluctuations, war, climate change, and macroeconomic events; risks relating to our ordinary shares, including our share price, the concentration of our share ownership with insiders, our status as a foreign private issuer, provisions of Israeli law and our amended and restated articles of association and actions of activist shareholders; risks related to our incorporation and location in Israel, including risks related to the ongoing war and related hostilities; and the other risks and uncertainties described in Global-e’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on March 27, 2025 and other documents filed with or furnished by Global-e from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this press release. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information or the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements.

    About Global-E Online Ltd.

    Global-e (Nasdaq: GLBE) is the world’s leading platform enabling and accelerating global, Direct-To-Consumer e-commerce. The chosen partner of over 1,400 brands and retailers across the North America, EMEA and APAC, Global-e makes selling internationally as simple as selling domestically. The company enables merchants to increase the conversion of international traffic into sales by offering online shoppers in over 200 destinations worldwide a seamless, localized shopping experience. Global-e’s end-to-end e-commerce solutions combine best-in-class localization capabilities, big-data best-practice business intelligence models, streamlined international logistics and vast global e-commerce experience, enabling international shoppers to buy seamlessly online and retailers to sell to, and from, anywhere in the world. For more information, please visit: www.global-e.com.

    Investor Contact:
    Alan Katz
    Vice President, Investor Relations
    IR@global-e.com

    Press Contact:
    Sarah Schloss
    Headline Media
    Globale@headline.media 
    +1 786-233-7684

    Global-E Online Ltd.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (In thousands)
     
        Period Ended
         December 31,     March 31, 
         2024     2025 
          (Audited)        (Unaudited)  
    Assets                
    Current assets:                
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 254,620     $ 207,716  
    Short-term deposits     183,475       183,229  
    Accounts receivable, net     41,171       34,700  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets     84,613       116,967  
    Marketable securities     36,345       53,888  
    Funds receivable, including cash in banks     122,984       87,484  
    Total current assets     723,208       683,984  
    Property and equipment, net     10,440       10,453  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets     24,429       23,365  
    Deferred contract acquisition and fulfillment costs, noncurrent     3,787       3,836  
    Long-term investments and other long-term assets     8,313       8,213  
    Commercial agreement asset     66,527        29,510  
    Goodwill     367,566        367,566  
    Intangible assets, net     59,212        54,810  
    Total long-term assets     540,274       497,753  
    Total assets   $ 1,263,482     $ 1,181,737  
    Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity                
    Current liabilities:                
    Accounts payable   $ 79,559     $ 67,184  
    Accrued expenses and other current liabilities     141,551       117,852  
    Funds payable to Customers     122,984       87,484  
    Short term operating lease liabilities     4,347       4,366  
    Total current liabilities     348,441       276,886  
    Long-term liabilities:                
    Long term operating lease liabilities     20,510       19,508  
    Other long-term liabilities     1,098       1,088  
    Total liabilities   $ 370,049     $ 297,482  
                     
    Shareholders’ equity:                
    Share capital and additional paid-in capital     1,425,317       1,434,341  
    Accumulated comprehensive income (loss)     515       169  
    Accumulated deficit     (532,399 )     (550,255 )
    Total shareholders’ equity     893,433       884,255  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 1,263,482     $ 1,181,737  
                     
    Global-E Online Ltd.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (In thousands, except share and per share data)
     
        Three Months Ended  
        March 31,  
        2024     2025  
        (Unaudited)  
    Revenue   $ 145,873     $ 189,882  
    Cost of revenue     82,587       105,798  
    Gross profit     63,286       84,084  
                     
    Operating expenses:                
    Research and development     23,538       28,138  
    Sales and marketing     56,955       63,938  
    General and administrative     12,054       11,193  
    Total operating expenses     92,547       103,269  
    Operating profit (loss)     (29,261 )     (19,185 )
    Financial expenses (income), net     3,510       (1,870 )
    Loss before income taxes     (32,771 )     (17,315 )
    Income taxes     (720 )     541  
    Net earnings (loss) attributable to ordinary shareholders   $ (32,051 )   $ (17,856 )
    Basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to ordinary shareholders   $ (0.19 )     (0.11 )
    Basic and diluted weighted average ordinary shares     166,187,424       169,346,771  
    Global-E Online Ltd.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
    (In thousands)
     
        Three Months Ended  
        March 31,  
        2024   2025
        (Unaudited)  
    Operating activities                
    Net loss   $ (32,051 )   $ (17,856 )
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:                
    Depreciation and amortization     512       536  
    Share-based compensation expense     8,711       8,793  
    Commercial agreement asset amortization     36,296       37,017  
    Intangible assets amortization     5,002       4,402  
    Changes in accrued interest and exchange rate on short-term deposits     369       (842 )
    Unrealized loss (gain) on foreign currency     2,726       (1,477 )
    Accounts receivable     8,418       6,471  
    Prepaid expenses and other assets     2,685       (28,405 )
    Funds receivable     (7,688 )     (9,182 )
    Long-term receivables     708       101  
    Funds payable to customers     (30,857 )     (35,500 )
    Operating lease ROU assets     817       1,064  
    Deferred contract acquisition and fulfillment costs     (268 )     (101 )
    Accounts payable     (17,049 )     (12,375 )
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities     (30,228 )     (23,710 )
    Deferred tax liabilities     (1,424 )     –  
    Operating lease liabilities     (944 )     (983 )
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities     (54,265 )     (72,047 )
    Investing activities                
    Investment in marketable securities     (1,042 )     (17,768 )
    Proceeds from marketable securities     1,012       999  
    Investment in short-term investments and deposits     (56,949 )     (70,972 )
    Proceeds from short-term investments     58,000       67,059  
    Investment in long-term deposits     (31 )     –  
    Purchases of property and equipment     (882 )     (548 )
    Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities     108       (21,230 )
    Financing activities                
    Proceeds from exercise of share options     120       210  
    Net cash provided by financing activities     120       210  
    Exchange rate differences on balances of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash     (2,726 )     1,477  
    Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash     (56,763 )     (91,590 )
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash—beginning of period     268,597       331,682  
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash—end of period   $ 211,834     $ 240,092  
    Global-E Online Ltd.
    SELECTED OTHER DATA
    (In thousands)
     
        Three Months Ended  
        March 31,  
        2024
    		   2025  
        (Unaudited)  
    Key performance metrics      
    Gross Merchandise Value     929,510               1,242,514            
    Adjusted EBITDA (a)     21,260               31,563            
                                       
    Revenue by Category                                  
    Service fees     68,258       47 %     83,983       44 %  
    Fulfillment services     77,615       53 %     105,899       56 %  
    Total revenue   $ 145,873       100 %   $ 189,882       100 %  
                                       
    Revenue by merchant outbound region                                  
    United States     72,112       49 %     100,554       53 %  
    United Kingdom     41,276       28 %     41,747       22 %  
    European Union     26,343       18 %     33,530       18 %  
    Israel     316       0 %     401       0 %  
    Other     5,826       4 %     13,650       7 %  
    Total revenue   $ 145,873       100 %   $ 189,882       100 %  

    (a) See reconciliation to adjusted EBITDA table

    Global-E Online Ltd.
    RECONCILIATION TO Non-GAAP GROSS PROFIT
    (In thousands)
     
        Three Months Ended  
        March 31,  
          2024       2025  
        (Unaudited)  
    Gross profit     63,286       84,084  
                     
    Amortization of acquired intangibles included in cost of revenue     2,796       2,198  
    Non-GAAP gross profit     66,082       86,282  
    Global-E Online Ltd.
    RECONCILIATION TO ADJUSTED EBITDA
    (In thousands)
     
        Three Months Ended  
        March 31,  
        2024
    		   2025
        (Unaudited)  
    Net profit (loss)     (32,051 )     (17,856 )
    Income tax (benefit) expenses     (720 )     541  
    Financial expenses (income), net     3,510       (1,870 )
    Stock-based compensation:                
    Cost of revenue     180       267  
    Research and development     3,468       3,625  
    Selling and marketing     1,282       1,438  
    General and administrative     3,781       3,463  
    Total stock-based compensation     8,711       8,793  
                     
    Depreciation and amortization     512       536  
                     
    Commercial agreement asset amortization     36,296       37,017  
                     
    Amortization of acquired intangibles     5,002       4,402  
    Adjusted EBITDA     21,260       31,563  
    Global-E Online Ltd.
    RECONCILIATION TO Free Cash Flow
    (In thousands)
     
        Three Months Ended  
        March 31,  
          2024       2025  
        (Unaudited)  
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities     (54,265 )     (72,047 )
    Purchase of property and equipment     (882 )     (548 )
    Free Cash Flow     (55,147 )     (72,595 )

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LeddarTech Reports Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    QUEBEC CITY, Canada, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LeddarTech® Holdings Inc. (“LeddarTech” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: LDTC), an AI-powered software company recognized for its innovation in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving (AD), today provided a corporate update and announced financial results for the second quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    “We are executing our strategic plan to commercialize LeddarVision™ while we work to address our previously disclosed liquidity challenges. We are also excited to introduce an additional revenue stream, LeddarSim™—a next-generation simulation platform designed to close the gap between virtual testing and real-world deployment of ADAS and AD solutions. LeddarSim will play a critical role in training AI models to accelerate the deployment of ADAS and autonomous driving technologies,” said Frantz Saintellemy, President and CEO of LeddarTech. “In parallel, we are advancing production planning for our first OEM design win, and we are poised to leverage this success to secure additional contracts as the value of our platform becomes increasingly evident to automotive manufacturers.”

    Recent Business and Technology Highlights

    • Launched LeddarSim, a next-generation simulation platform designed to close the gap between virtual testing and real-world deployment.
    • Progressed OEM Design Win Toward Production: LeddarTech is actively providing engineering services to integrate its software platform into the 2028 model year vehicles of one of the world’s leading commercial vehicle OEMs. This design win is expected to generate non-recurring services revenue in fiscal year 2025.

    Customer Traction and Development

    LeddarTech has a robust pipeline of more than 30 active opportunities with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), as well as Tier 1 and Tier 2 automotive suppliers, aimed at meeting growing consumer demand for enhanced safety features and addressing upcoming regulatory deadlines.

    Fiscal Second Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights1

    Revenue: Revenue for the fiscal second quarter of 2025, ending March 31, 2025, was $238,914, compared to $122,101 in the fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2024.

    Net loss: Net loss for the fiscal second quarter of 2025, ending March 31, 2025, was ($16.0) million, or ($0.42) per share, compared to a net loss of ($17.2) million, or ($0.60) per share, in the fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2024. The decreased net loss was primarily due to lower stock-based compensation and financing expenses, offset by higher R&D expense as we are no longer capitalizing R&D expense.

    EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA2: EBITDA loss for the second quarter of 2025, ending March 31, 2025, was ($8.4) million, compared to a ($14.0) million loss in the fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2024. The lower loss was primarily due to lower stock-based compensation and financing-related expenses, partially offset by higher R&D expense as we are no longer capitalizing a substantial portion of our R&D expenses as we were in the prior period. Adjusted EBITDA loss for the second quarter of 2025, ending March 31, 2025, was ($12.0) million, compared to adjusted EBITDA loss of ($8.7) million in the fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2024. The higher loss was primarily attributable to higher R&D expense as we are no longer capitalizing a substantial portion of our R&D expense.

    Balance Sheet and Liquidity3

    As of March 31, 2025, LeddarTech had a cash balance of approximately $9.2 million, which cash balance had declined to approximately $4.1 million as of May 8, 2025. Pursuant to the amended and restated financing offer dated as of April 5, 2023 with Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec (“Desjardins” and the financing offer, as amended, the “Desjardins Credit Facility”), the Company is required to maintain a minimum cash balance of $1.8 million at all times after April 1, 2025. If we are not able to raise additional capital in the next several days, we will be in default under this minimum cash covenant. Moreover, we are obligated to complete an equity financing pursuant to which we must raise an additional US$9.7 million in equity investments prior to May 23, 2025 in order to satisfy the requirement that we raise at least US$35.0 million in equity investments prior to that date. We are also required to produce a plan at the satisfaction of our lenders regarding a refinancing, recapitalization or any suitable transaction no later than May 16, 2025. Toward that end, we have engaged a financial advisor to do a comprehensive review of the options that are available to the Company. We are currently exploring all alternatives to secure the financing necessary to comply with the covenants in our debt arrangements and to continue to pursue our strategic goals. Failure to complete the equity financing by May 23, 2025 or to produce a plan for our lenders by May 16, 2025 constitute liquidity events that could trigger a requirement for us to repay all amounts under our Desjardins Credit Facility, under our bridge financing offer dated as of August 16, 2024 with the initial bridge lenders and certain members of management and the board of directors (collectively, the “Bridge Lenders”, and the financing offer, the “Bridge Facility”), and other indebtedness. At this time, we are not expecting to be able to complete the equity financing or to produce a plan that would be acceptable to all our lenders. Desjardins has expressed an unwillingness to provide additional financing to the Company, but has expressed a willingness to work toward a solution, and LeddarTech is currently engaged with Desjardins and the Bridge Lenders with respect to a potential solution that could result in additional financing for the Company as well as relief from the above-described minimum cash, equity financing and process plan covenants. While LeddarTech is seeking additional financing, we continue to consider all possible cost reduction measures. There is no assurance that such measures could be done successfully, or at all. In such circumstances, LeddarTech’s ability to continue as a going concern would be materially and adversely affected and investors in LeddarTech’s Common Shares could lose all or a substantial part of their investment. For more details, see our Management’s Discussion and Analysis filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof.

    About LeddarTech

    A global software company founded in 2007 and headquartered in Quebec City with additional R&D centers in Montreal and Tel Aviv, Israel, LeddarTech develops and provides comprehensive AI-based low-level sensor fusion and perception software solutions that enable the deployment of ADAS, autonomous driving (AD) and parking applications. LeddarTech’s automotive-grade software applies advanced AI and computer vision algorithms to generate accurate 3D models of the environment to achieve better decision making and safer navigation. This high-performance, scalable, cost-effective technology is available to OEMs and Tier 1-2 suppliers to efficiently implement automotive and off-road vehicle ADAS solutions.

    LeddarTech is responsible for several remote-sensing innovations, with over 190 patent applications (112 granted) that enhance ADAS, AD and parking capabilities. Better awareness around the vehicle is critical in making global mobility safer, more efficient, sustainable and affordable: this is what drives LeddarTech to seek to become the most widely adopted sensor fusion and perception software solution.

    LeddarTech might, in the scope of collaborations, partnerships and projects, from time to time, collect with test vehicles personal information, i.e., information that directly or indirectly identifies members of the public. Collected personal information may be processed, used, stored and communicated by LeddarTech within the scope of developing and training our software and products. For further information about the processing activities, which include the collection, use, storage and communication of personal information, as well as the associated personal information protection rights and how to exercise them, please consult LeddarTech’s Privacy Policy.

    Additional information about LeddarTech is accessible at www.leddartech.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter (X), Facebook and YouTube.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this Press Release may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (which forward-looking statements also include forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws), including, but not limited to, statements relating to LeddarTech’s selection by the OEM referred to above, anticipated strategy, future operations, prospects, objectives and financial projections and other financial metrics, as well as expectations regarding the anticipated performance, adoption and commercialization of its products. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “likely,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend” and other similar expressions among others. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation, our ability to continue to maintain compliance with Nasdaq continued listing standards following our transfer to the Nasdaq Capital Market, as well as: (i) the risk that LeddarTech and the OEM referred to above are unable to agree to final terms in definitive agreements; (ii) the volume of future orders (if any) from this OEM, actual revenue derived from expected orders, and timing of revenue, if any; (iii) our ability to timely access sufficient capital and financing on favorable terms or at all; (iv) our ability to maintain compliance with our debt covenants, including our ability to enter into any forbearance agreements, waivers or amendments with, or obtain other relief from, our lenders as needed; (v) our ability to execute on our business model, achieve design wins and generate meaningful revenue; (vi) our ability to successfully commercialize our product offering at scale, whether through the collaboration agreement with Texas Instruments, a collaboration with a Tier 2 supplier or otherwise; (vii) changes in our strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs and plans; (viii) changes in general economic and/or industry-specific conditions; (ix) our ability to retain, attract and hire key personnel; (x) potential adverse changes to relationships with our customers, employees, suppliers or other parties; (xi) legislative, regulatory and economic developments; (xii) the outcome of any known and unknown litigation and regulatory proceedings; (xiii) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, acts of terrorism, outbreak of war or hostilities and any epidemic, pandemic or disease outbreak, as well as management’s response to any of the aforementioned factors; and (xiv) other risk factors as detailed from time to time in LeddarTech’s reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the risk factors contained in LeddarTech’s Form 20-F filed with the SEC. The foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive. Except as required by applicable law, LeddarTech does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Chris Stewart, Chief Financial Officer, LeddarTech Holdings Inc.
    Tel.: + 1-514-427-0858, chris.stewart@leddartech.com

    Leddar, LeddarTech, LeddarVision, LeddarSP, VAYADrive, VayaVision and related logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeddarTech Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names and marks are or may be trademarks or registered trademarks used to identify products or services of their respective owners.

    LeddarTech Holdings Inc. is a public company listed on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “LDTC.”

    Continuing operations Q2-2025   Q2-2024  
    Revenues $238,914   $122,101  
    Loss from operations (13,348,106 ) (12,570,811 )
    Finance costs, net 2,710,512   4,741,236  
    Loss before income taxes (15,948,479 ) (17,221,982 )
    Net loss and comprehensive loss (15,961,864 ) (17,238,993 )
    Net loss and comprehensive loss attributable to Shareholders of the Company (15,961,864 ) (17,238,993 )
    Loss per share    
    Net loss per share (basic and diluted) (in dollars) (0.42 ) (0.60 )
    Weighted average common shares outstanding (basic and diluted) 37,573,262   28,770,930  
    EBITDA (loss) (8,394,400 ) (14,011,179 )
    Adjusted EBITDA (loss) (11,979,035 ) (8,729,399 )

      
    The following table sets forth a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA and EBITDA to net loss reported in accordance with IFRS for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024.

      Q2-2025   Q2-2024  
    Net loss from continued operations ($15,961,864 ) ($17,238,993 )
    Income taxes 13,385   17,011  
    Depreciation of property and equipment 146,882   91,626  
    Depreciation of right-of-use assets 186,356   35,316  
    Amortization of intangible assets (92,832 ) 180,248  
    Interest expenses 7,313,673   2,903,613  
    EBITDA loss from continuing operations (8,394,400 ) (14,011,179 )
         
    Foreign exchange gain (5,663 ) (13,188 )
    Loss (gain) on revaluation of financial instruments
    carried at fair value    		 (4,612,632 ) 1,884,686  
    Gain on lease modification –   (39,305 )
    Stock-based compensation 1,033,660   2,803,357  
    Transaction costs –   646,230  
    Adjusted EBITDA loss from continuing operations (11,979,035 ) (8,729,399 )

     
    Non-IFRS Financial Measures

    A non-IFRS financial measure is a financial measure used to depict our historical or expected future financial performance, financial position or cash flow and, with respect to its composition, either excludes an amount that is included in, or includes an amount that is excluded from, the composition of the most directly comparable financial measure disclosed in Company’s consolidated primary financial statements.

    In Q2-2024, the Company started to use two new non-IFRS financial measures because we believe these non-IFRS financial measures are reflective of our ongoing operating results and provide readers with an understanding of management’s perspective on and analysis of our performance.

    Below are descriptions of the non-IFRS financial measures that we use to explain our results and reconciliations to the most directly comparable IFRS financial measures.

    EBITDA (loss) is calculated as net earnings (loss) before interest expenses (income), deferred income taxes, depreciation of property and equipment, depreciation of right-of-use assets and amortization of intangible assets.

    EBITDA (loss) should not be considered an alternative to net loss in measuring performance or used as a measure of cash flow.

    Adjusted EBITDA (loss) is calculated as EBITDA (loss), adjusted for foreign exchange gain (loss), loss (gain) on revaluation of financial instruments carried at fair value, gain or loss on lease modification, share‐based compensation, listing expense, transaction costs, restructuring costs and impairment loss on intangible assets.

    ____________________________
    1  All amounts in Canadian dollars except where otherwise noted.
    2  EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA are non-IFRS measures and are presented by the Company as they are used to assess operating performance. These non-IFRS measures do not have standardized meanings under IFRS and are not likely comparable to similarly designated measures reported by other corporations. The reader is cautioned that these measures are being reported in order to complement, and not replace, the analysis of financial results in accordance with IFRS. See “Non-IFRS Financial Measures” below.
    3  All amounts in Canadian dollars except where otherwise noted.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tower Semiconductor Reports 2025 First Quarter Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    9% year-over-year revenue growth

    Affirms sequential quarterly revenue growth target throughout 2025

    MIGDAL HAEMEK, Israel, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tower Semiconductor (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM) reports today its results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    First Quarter of 2025 Results Overview
    Revenues for the first quarter of 2025 were $358 million as compared to $327 million for the first quarter of 2024, representing 9% year-over-year revenue growth.

    Gross profit and operating profit for the first quarter of 2025 were $73 million and $33 million, respectively, as compared to gross profit and operating profit of $73 million and $34 million in the first quarter of 2024, respectively. Gross and operating profits remain similar since the positive impact of the $31 million revenue increase was offset by the fixed costs of the new 300mm Agrate facility, as previously disclosed.

    Net profit for the first quarter of 2025 was $40 million, reflecting $0.36 basic and $0.35 diluted earnings per share. First quarter of 2024 net profit was $45 million, reflecting $0.40 basic and diluted earnings per share, having been positively impacted by a non-recurring income tax benefit.

    Cash flow generated from operating activities in the first quarter of 2025 was $94 million. Investments in property and equipment, net, were $111 million and debt payments totaled $27 million.

    Corporate Credit Rating 
    On May 7, 2025, Standard & Poor’s Maalot (an S&P Global Ratings fully owned company) completed its annual rating review for the Company and reaffirmed its corporate credit rating as “ilAA, with a stable outlook”.

    Business Outlook
    Tower Semiconductor guides revenues for the second quarter of 2025 to be $372 million, with an upward or downward range of 5%, reflecting 6% year-over-year revenue increase; and reiterates its previously communicated company target for continued quarter-over-quarter revenue growth within 2025.

    Russell Ellwanger, Chief Executive Officer of Tower Semiconductor, stated:
    “Tower delivered continued record revenue in RF infrastructure, which includes SiPho and SiGe. We target further revenue growth of these technologies throughout the year, increases in our high voltage 200mm power management business and higher revenue levels in our sensors business. Additionally, we have entered a new served market for Tower, namely envelope trackers, using our 300mm technology platform. In the face of geo-political uncertainties, we are leveraging Tower’s global scale and technology breadth into new opportunities.”

    Teleconference and Webcast
    Tower Semiconductor will host an investor conference call today, Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern time (9:00 a.m. Central time, 8:00 a.m. Mountain time, 7:00 a.m. Pacific time and 5:00 p.m. Israel time) to discuss the Company’s financial results for the first quarter of 2025 and its business outlook.

    The call will be webcast and available through the Investor Relations section of Tower Semiconductor’s website at ir.towersemi.com. The pre-registration form required for dial-in participation is accessible here. Upon completing the registration, participants will receive the dial-in details, a unique PIN, and a confirmation email with all necessary information. To access the webcast, click here. The teleconference will be available for replay for 90 days.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    The Company presents its financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). The financial information included in the tables below includes unaudited condensed financial data. Some of the financial information, which may be used and/or presented in this release and/or prior earnings related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company, which we may describe as adjusted financial measures and/or reconciled financial measures, are non-GAAP financial measures as defined in Regulation G and related reporting requirements promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) as they apply to our Company. These adjusted financial measures are calculated excluding the following: (i) amortization of acquired intangible assets as included in our costs and expenses, (ii) compensation expenses in respect of equity grants to directors, officers, and employees as included in our costs and expenses, (iii) merger contract termination fees received from Intel, net of associated cost and taxes following the previously announced Intel contract termination as included in net profit in 2023 and (iv) restructuring income, net, which includes income, net of cost and taxes associated with the reorganization and restructure of our operations in Japan including the cessation of operations of the Arai facility, which occurred during 2022, as included in net profit. These adjusted financial measures should be evaluated in conjunction with, and are not a substitute for, GAAP financial measures. The tables also present the GAAP financial measures, which are most comparable to the adjusted financial measures used and/or presented in this release, as well as a reconciliation between the adjusted financial measures and the comparable GAAP financial measures. As used and/or presented in this release and/or prior earnings related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company, as well as may be included and calculated in the tables herein, the term Earnings Before Interest Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization which we define as EBITDA consists of operating profit in accordance with GAAP, excluding (i) depreciation expenses, which include depreciation recorded in cost of revenues and in operating cost and expenses lines (e.g., research and development related equipment and/or fixed other assets depreciation), (ii) stock-based compensation expense, (iii) amortization of acquired intangible assets, (iv) merger contract termination fees received from Intel, net of associated cost following the previously announced Intel contract termination, as included in operating profit and (v) restructuring income, net in relation to the reorganization and restructure of our operations in Japan including the cessation of operations of the Arai facility, as included in operating profit. EBITDA is reconciled in the tables below and/or prior earnings-related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company from GAAP operating profit. EBITDA and the adjusted financial information presented herein and/or prior earnings-related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company, are not a required GAAP financial measure and may not be comparable to a similarly titled measure employed by other companies. EBITDA and the adjusted financial information presented herein and/or prior earnings-related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company, should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for operating profit, net profit or loss, cash flows provided by operating, investing and financing activities, per share data or other profit or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP. The term Net Cash, as may be used and/or presented in this release and/or prior earnings-related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company, is comprised of cash, cash equivalents, short-term deposits, and marketable securities less debt amounts as presented in the balance sheets included herein. The term Net Cash is not a required GAAP financial measure, may not be comparable to a similarly titled measure employed by other companies and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for cash, debt, operating profit, net profit or loss, cash flows provided by operating, investing and financing activities, per share data or other profit or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP. The term Free Cash Flow, as used and/or presented in this release and/or prior earnings related filings and/or in related public disclosures or filings with respect to the financial statements and/or results of the Company, is calculated to be net cash provided by operating activities (in the amounts of $94 million, $101 million and $110 million for the three months periods ended March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024 and March 31, 2024, respectively (less cash used for investments in property and equipment, net (in the amounts of $111 million, $93 million and $98 million for the three months periods ended March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024 and March 31, 2024, respectively). The term Free Cash Flow is not a required GAAP financial measure, may not be comparable to a similarly titled measure employed by other companies and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for operating profit, net profit or loss, cash flows provided by operating, investing, and financing activities, per share data or other profit or cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP.

    About Tower Semiconductor 
    Tower Semiconductor Ltd. (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, provides technology, development, and process platforms for its customers in growing markets such as consumer, industrial, automotive, mobile, infrastructure, medical and aerospace and defense. Tower Semiconductor focuses on creating a positive and sustainable impact on the world through long-term partnerships and its advanced and innovative analog technology offering, comprised of a broad range of customizable process platforms such as SiPho, SiGe, BiCMOS, mixed-signal/CMOS, RF CMOS, CMOS image sensor, non-imaging sensors, displays, integrated power management (BCD and 700V), and MEMS. Tower Semiconductor also provides world-class design enablement for a quick and accurate design cycle as well as process transfer services including development, transfer, and optimization, to IDMs and fabless companies. To provide multi-fab sourcing and extended capacity for its customers, Tower Semiconductor owns one operating facility in Israel (200mm), two in the U.S. (200mm), two in Japan (200mm and 300mm) which it owns through its 51% holdings in TPSCo, shares a 300mm facility in Agrate, Italy with STMicroelectronics as well as has access to a 300mm capacity corridor in Intel’s New Mexico factory. For more information, please visit: www.towersemi.com.

    CONTACT:
    Liat Avraham | Investor Relations | +972-4-6506154 | liatavra@towersemi.com

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This release, as well as other statements and reports filed, stated and published in relation to this quarter’s results, include certain “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements include, among others, projections and statements with respect to our future business, financial performance and activities. The use of words such as “projects”, “expects”, “may”, “targets”, “plans”, “intends”, “committed to”, “tracking”, or words of similar import, identifies a statement as “forward-looking.” Actual results may vary from those projected or implied by such forward-looking statements and you should not place any undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which describe information known to us only as of the date of this release. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or implied by such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties associated with: (i) demand in our customers’ end markets, (ii) reliance on acquisitions and/or gaining additional capacity for growth, (iii) difficulties in achieving acceptable operational metrics and indices in the future as a result of operational, technological or process-related problems, (iv) identifying and negotiating with third-party buyers for the sale of any excess and/or unused equipment, inventory and/or other assets, (v) maintaining current key customers and attracting new key customers, (vi) over demand for our foundry services resulting in high utilization and its effect on cycle time, yield and on schedule delivery, as well as customers potentially being placed on allocation, which may cause customers to transfer their business to other vendors, (vii) financial results that may fluctuate from quarter to quarter, making it difficult to forecast future performance, (viii) our debt and other liabilities that may impact our financial position and operations, (ix) our ability to successfully execute acquisitions, integrate them into our business, utilize our expanded capacity and find new business, (x) fluctuations in cash flow, (xi) our ability to satisfy the covenants stipulated in our agreements with our debt holders, (xii) pending litigation, (xiii) meeting the conditions set in approval certificates and other regulations under which we received grants and/or royalties and/or any type of funding from the Israeli, US and/or Japan governmental agencies, (xiv) receipt of orders that are lower than the customer purchase commitments and/or failure to receive customer orders currently expected, (xv) possible incurrence of additional indebtedness, (xvi) the effects of global recession, credit crisis and/or unfavorable macro-economic conditions, such as the imposition of regulatory requirements, tariffs, import and export restrictions and other trade barriers and restrictions, including the timing and availability of export licenses and permits, (xvii) our ability to accurately forecast financial performance, which is affected by limited order backlog and lengthy sales cycles, (xviii) possible situations of obsolete inventory if forecasted demand exceeds actual demand when we create inventory before receipt of customer orders, (xix) the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry and the resulting periodic overcapacity, fluctuations in operating results and future average selling price erosion, (xx) financing capacity acquisition related transactions, strategic and/or other growth or M&A opportunities, including funding Agrate fab’s significant 300mm capacity investments and acquisition or funding of equipment and other fixed assets associated with the capacity corridor transaction with Intel as announced in September 2023, in addition to other capacity and capability expansion plans, such as announced for SiPho and SiGe, and the possible unavailability of such financing and/or the availability of such financing on unfavorable terms, (xxi) operating our facilities at sufficient utilization rates necessary to generate and maintain positive and sustainable gross, operating and net profit, (xxii) the purchase of equipment and/or raw material (including purchases beyond our needs), the timely completion of the equipment installation, technology transfer and raising the funds therefor, (xxiii) product returns and defective products, (xxiv) our ability to maintain and develop our technology processes and services to keep pace with new technology, including artificial intelligence, evolving standards, changing customer and end-user requirements, new product introductions and short product life cycles, (xxv) competing effectively, (xxvi) the use of outsourced foundry services by both fabless semiconductor companies and integrated device manufacturers, (xxvii) our dependence on intellectual property rights of others, our ability to operate our business without infringing others’ intellectual property rights and our ability to enforce our intellectual property against infringement, (xxviii) the Fab 3 landlord’s alleged claims that the noise abatement efforts made thus far are not adequate under the terms of the amended lease due to which he requested a judicial declaration that there was a material non-curable breach of the lease and that he would be entitled to terminate the lease, as well as uncertainties associated with the ability to extend such lease or acquire the real estate and obtain the required local, state and/or other approvals required to be able to continue operations beyond the current lease term, (xxix) retention of key employees and recruitment and retention of skilled qualified personnel, (xxx) exposure to inflation, currency rates (mainly the Israeli Shekel, the Japanese Yen and the Euro) and interest rate fluctuations and risks associated with doing business locally and internationally, as well as fluctuations in the market price of our traded securities, (xxxi) meeting regulatory requirements worldwide, including export, environmental and governmental regulations, as well as risks related to international operations, (xxxii) potential engagement for fab establishment, joint venture and/or capital lease transactions for capacity enhancement in advanced technologies, including risks and uncertainties associated with the Agrate fab and the capacity corridor transaction with Intel as announced in September 2023, such as their qualification schedule, technology, equipment and process qualification, facility operational ramp-up, customer engagements, cost structure, required investments and other terms, which may require additional funding to cover their significant capacity investment needs and other payments, the availability of which funding cannot be assured on favorable terms, if at all, (xxxiii) potential liabilities, cost and other impact due to reorganization and consolidation of fabrication facilities, or cessation of operations, including with regard to our 6 inch facility, (xxxiv) potential security, cyber and privacy breaches, (xxxv) workforce that is not unionized which may become unionized, and/or workforce that is unionized and may take action such as strikes that may create increased cost and operational risks, (xxxvi) the issuance of ordinary shares as a result of exercise and/or vesting of any of our employee equity, as well as any sale of shares by any of our shareholders, or any market expectation thereof, as well as the issuance of additional employee stock options and/or restricted stock units, or any market expectation thereof, which may depress the market value of the Company and the price of the Company’s ordinary shares, and in addition may impair our ability to raise future capital, and (xxxvii) climate change, business interruptions due to floods, fires, pandemics, earthquakes and other natural disasters, the security situation in Israel, global trade “war” and the current war in Israel, including the potential inability to continue uninterrupted operations of the Israeli fab, impact on global supply chain to and from the Israeli fab, power interruptions, chemicals or other leaks or damages as a result of the war, absence of workforce due to military service as well as risk that certain countries will restrict doing business with Israeli companies, including imposing restrictions if hostilities in Israel or political instability in the region continue or exacerbate, and other events beyond our control. With respect to the current war in Israel, if instability in neighboring states occurs, Israel could be subject to additional political, economic, and military confines, and our Israeli facility’s operations could be materially adversely affected. Any current or future hostilities involving Israel or the interruption or curtailment of trade between Israel and its present trading partners, or a significant downturn in the economic or financial condition of Israel, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

    A more complete discussion of risks and uncertainties that may affect the accuracy of forward-looking statements included in this release or which may otherwise affect our business is included under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent filings on Forms 20-F and 6-K, as were filed with the SEC and the Israel Securities Authority. Future results may differ materially from those previously reported. The Company does not intend to update, and expressly disclaims any obligation to update, the information contained in this release.

    (Financial tables follow)

       
    TOWER SEMICONDUCTOR LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES  
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)  
    (dollars in thousands)  
      March 31,   December 31,  
      2025   2024  
    ASSETS        
    CURRENT ASSETS        
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 274,818   $ 271,894  
    Short-term deposits 906,446   946,351  
    Trade accounts receivable 219,496   211,932  
    Inventories 276,072   268,295  
    Other current assets 51,429   61,817  
    Total current assets 1,728,261   1,760,289  
    PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET 1,346,213   1,286,622  
    OTHER LONG-TERM ASSETS, NET 34,131   33,574  
    TOTAL ASSETS $ 3,108,605   $ 3,080,485  
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY        
    CURRENT LIABILITIES        
    Short-term debt $ 27,490   $ 48,376  
    Trade accounts payable 118,318   130,624  
    Deferred revenues and customers’ advances 17,233   21,655  
    Other current liabilities 86,421   84,409  
    Total current liabilities 249,462   285,064  
    LONG-TERM DEBT 134,835   132,437  
    OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES 22,293   22,804  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES 406,590   440,305  
    TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY 2,702,015   2,640,180  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY $ 3,108,605   $ 3,080,485  
             
    TOWER SEMICONDUCTOR LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
    (dollars and share count in thousands, except per share data)
      Three months ended
      March 31,
    		   December 31,
    		   March 31,
      2025
    		   2024
    		   2024
    REVENUES $ 358,170     $ 387,191     $ 327,238  
    COST OF REVENUES 284,999     300,338     254,632  
    GROSS PROFIT 73,171     86,853     72,606  
    OPERATING COSTS AND EXPENSES:                
    Research and development 20,172     20,622     19,951  
    Marketing, general and administrative 20,101     19,812     18,670  
      40,273     40,434     38,621  
                     
    OPERATING PROFIT 32,898     46,419     33,985  
    FINANCING AND OTHER INCOME, NET 10,598     8,315     3,984  
    PROFIT BEFORE INCOME TAX 43,496     54,734     37,969  
    INCOME TAX BENEFIT (EXPENSE), NET   (3,779 )     (2,149 )   5,078  
    NET PROFIT 39,717     52,585     43,047  
    Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest 425     2,553     1,587  
    NET PROFIT ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY $ 40,142     $ 55,138     $ 44,634  
    BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE $ 0.36     $ 0.49     $ 0.40  
    Weighted average number of shares 111,575     111,493     110,840  
    DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE $ 0.35     $ 0.49     $ 0.40  
    Weighted average number of shares 113,152     112,967     111,627  
     
    RECONCILIATION FROM GAAP NET PROFIT ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY TO ADJUSTED NET PROFIT ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY:
    GAAP NET PROFIT ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY $ 40,142     $ 55,138     $ 44,634  
    Stock based compensation and amortization of acquired intangible assets 10,335     11,258     7,209  
    ADJUSTED NET PROFIT ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE COMPANY $ 50,477     $ 66,396     $ 51,843  
    ADJUSTED EARNINGS PER SHARE:                
    Basic $ 0.45     $ 0.60     $ 0.47  
    Diluted $ 0.45     $ 0.59     $ 0.46  
                     
    TOWER SEMICONDUCTOR LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    CONSOLIDATED SOURCES AND USES REPORT (UNAUDITED)
    (dollars in thousands)
      Three months ended
      March 31,
    		   December 31,
    		   March 31,
      2025
    		   2024
    		   2024
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS – BEGINNING OF PERIOD $ 271,894     $ 270,979     $ 260,664  
    Net cash provided by operating activities 93,922     100,816     110,038  
    Investments in property and equipment, net   (111,411 )     (93,396 )     (98,018 )
    Debt received (repaid), net   (26,874 )   2,795       (8,409 )
    Effect of Japanese Yen exchange rate change over cash balance 2,817       (4,972 )     (2,665 )
    Proceeds from (investments in) deposits, marketable securities and other assets, net 44,470       (4,328 )     (1,113 )
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS – END OF PERIOD $ 274,818     $ 271,894     $ 260,497  
                     
     TOWER SEMICONDUCTOR LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
    (dollars in thousands)
      Three months ended
        March 31,     December 31,     March 31,
        2025     2024     2024
    CASH FLOWS – OPERATING ACTIVITIES                      
    Net profit for the period $ 39,717     $ 52,585     $ 43,047  
    Adjustments to reconcile net profit for the period                      
    to net cash provided by operating activities:                      
    Income and expense items not involving cash flows:                      
    Depreciation and amortization *   74,228       75,820       59,544  
    Other expense, net   558       12,439       5,993  
    Changes in assets and liabilities:                      
    Trade accounts receivable   (6,354 )     (19,034 )     (6,489 )
    Other current assets   5,622       (36,464 )     (13,454 )
    Inventories   (4,128 )     (3,356 )     (23,703 )
    Trade accounts payable   (11,114 )     18,320       32,559  
    Deferred revenues and customers’ advances   (4,432 )     (8,712 )     (1,931 )
    Other current liabilities   3,718       7,057       16,868  
    Other long-term liabilities   (3,893 )     2,161       (2,396 )
    Net cash provided by operating activities   93,922       100,816       110,038  
    CASH FLOWS – INVESTING ACTIVITIES                      
    Investments in property and equipment, net   (111,411 )     (93,396 )     (98,018 )
    Proceeds from (investments in) deposits, marketable securities and other assets, net   44,470       (4,328 )     (1,113 )
    Net cash used in investing activities   (66,941 )     (97,724 )     (99,131 )
    CASH FLOWS – FINANCING ACTIVITIES                      
    Debt received (repaid), net   (26,874 )     2,795       (8,409 )
    Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities   (26,874 )     2,795       (8,409 )
    EFFECT OF FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATE CHANGE   2,817       (4,972 )     (2,665 )
                           
    INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS   2,924       915       (167 )
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS – BEGINNING OF PERIOD   271,894       270,979       260,664  
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS – END OF PERIOD $ 274,818     $ 271,894     $ 260,497  
     
    * Includes stock based compensation and amortization of acquired intangible assets in the amounts of $10,335, $11,258 and $7,209
    for the 3 months periods ended March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024 and March 31, 2024, respectively.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LeddarTech Announces the Launch of LeddarSim: Next Leap in Realistic Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Autonomous Driving (AD) Simulation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    QUEBEC CITY, Canada, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LeddarTech® Holdings Inc. (“LeddarTech”) (Nasdaq: LDTC), an AI-powered software company recognized for its innovation in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving (AD), is pleased to announce the launch of LeddarSim™, a next-generation simulation platform purposely built to reduce the gap between virtual testing and real-world deployment.

    LeddarSim redefines the standards of ADAS and AD development by closing the long-standing simulation gap through delivering a breakthrough multi-modality neural reconstruction of driving scenarios, including camera, radar and LiDAR inputs. The platform generates sensor-accurate, real-time renderings of real-world driving, resulting in a high-fidelity environment that empowers developers to train, test and validate perception models under conditions that mirror real-life complexity and dynamics.

    Anticipated Benefits to Automotive OEMs and Tier 1 Suppliers:

    • Accelerate Time-to-Market: LeddarSim allows ADAS/AD engineers to reconstruct and test millions of configurable scenarios virtually, significantly reducing development cycles and speeding up validation.
    • Cut Costs, Not Corners: LeddarSim offers a cost-effective solution without compromising accuracy, leading to a 10x reduction in data and annotation costs and significant savings in non-recurring engineering (NRE) expenses.
    • Design Once, Deploy Anywhere: LeddarSim’s flexibility allows for easy adaptation of sensor setups, vehicle types and regional driving conditions, enabling scalable development across various platforms.
    • Data-Driven Simulation: Unlike synthetic environments, LeddarSim builds realistic scenarios directly from real-world data, enhancing the accuracy and relevance of simulations.
    • Multi-Modal Sensor Support: LeddarSim can simulate data from cameras, radar and LiDAR simultaneously, optimizing and validating multi-sensor perception systems.
    • Near-Zero Simulation Gap: LeddarSim uses advanced AI algorithms ensuring fidelity to real-world conditions; this comprehensive approach minimizes the gap between virtual testing and real-world performance.

    “Traditional simulation platforms struggle to match the unpredictability and nuance of real-world driving,” said Pierre Olivier, CTO of LeddarTech. “With LeddarSim, we’ve managed to design a solution that achieves a near-zero simulation gap. By accelerating testing and validation cycles, LeddarSim empowers automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers to bring next-generation ADAS and autonomous driving solutions to market faster, with greater confidence in performance and safety.”

    Antonio Polo, Sr. Vice-President of Product and Business Development at LeddarTech, added: “Automotive companies face exponential challenges in the cost, complexity and scale of the data required to deploy safety-compliant and regulation-ready ADAS and AD systems at scale. LeddarSim brings the latest advances in AI-powered, multi-modal sensor dataset generation to recreate real-world driving scenarios with high fidelity. We believe LeddarSim fills a critical gap in the market. As the demand for simulation tools grows—with the industry expected to surpass $4.6 billion by 2035—this solution is poised to help address the massive data and validation challenge. LeddarSim is available for trial evaluation and offers the flexibility to be used as a stand-alone tool or integrated within existing simulation toolchains.”

    For more information on LeddarSim™, please contact us or visit the LeddarSim page.

    About LeddarTech

    A global software company founded in 2007 and headquartered in Quebec City with additional R&D centers in Montreal and Tel Aviv, Israel, LeddarTech develops and provides comprehensive AI-based low-level sensor fusion and perception software solutions that enable the deployment of ADAS, autonomous driving (AD) and parking applications. LeddarTech’s automotive-grade software applies advanced AI and computer vision algorithms to generate accurate 3D models of the environment to achieve better decision making and safer navigation. This high-performance, scalable, cost-effective technology is available to OEMs and Tier 1-2 suppliers to efficiently implement automotive and off-road vehicle ADAS solutions.

    LeddarTech is responsible for several remote-sensing innovations, with over 190 patent applications (112 granted) that enhance ADAS, AD and parking capabilities. Better awareness around the vehicle is critical in making global mobility safer, more efficient, sustainable and affordable: this is what drives LeddarTech to seek to become the most widely adopted sensor fusion and perception software solution.

    LeddarTech might, in the scope of collaborations, partnerships and projects, from time to time, collect with test vehicles personal information, i.e., information that directly or indirectly identifies members of the public. Collected personal information may be processed, used, stored and communicated by LeddarTech within the scope of developing and training our software and products. For further information about the processing activities, which include the collection, use, storage and communication of personal information, as well as the associated personal information protection rights and how to exercise them, please consult LeddarTech’s Privacy Policy.

    Additional information about LeddarTech is accessible at www.leddartech.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter (X), Facebook and YouTube.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this Press Release may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (which forward-looking statements also include forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws), including, but not limited to, statements relating to LeddarTech’s anticipated strategy, future operations, prospects, objectives and financial projections and other financial metrics, as well as expectations regarding the anticipated performance, adoption and commercialization of its products. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “likely,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend” and other similar expressions among others. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: (i) our ability to timely access sufficient capital and financing on favorable terms or at all; (ii) our ability to maintain compliance with our debt covenants, including our ability to enter into any forbearance agreements, waivers or amendments with, or obtain other relief from, our lenders as needed; (iii) our ability to execute on our business model, achieve design wins and generate meaningful revenue; (iv) our ability to successfully scale and commercialize our product offerings, including through strategic collaborations or otherwise; (v) delays or cost overruns in product development, testing, validation or release; (vi) the potential for limitations in simulation fidelity, coverage or performance when compared to real-world datasets or field testing; (vii) our ability to obtain, meet and maintain the evolving technical, regulatory or safety requirements applicable to simulation tools used in regulated or performance-critical domains, such as automotive applications; (viii) customer hesitancy or delays in adoption due to integration challenges, concerns about validation equivalency or compatibility with customer workflows, data formats or toolchains; (ix) the potential for claims of intellectual property infringement or legal exposure related to simulation models, datasets or output reproducibility; (x) changes in our strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs and plans; (xi) changes in general economic and/or industry-specific conditions; (xii) our ability to retain, attract and hire key personnel; (xiii) potential adverse changes to relationships with our customers, employees, suppliers or other parties; (xiv) legislative, regulatory and economic developments; (xv) the outcome of any known and unknown litigation and regulatory proceedings; (xvi) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, acts of terrorism, outbreak of war or hostilities and any epidemic, pandemic or disease outbreak, as well as management’s response to any of the aforementioned factors; and (xvii) other risk factors as detailed from time to time in LeddarTech’s reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the risk factors contained in LeddarTech’s Form 20-F filed with the SEC. The foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive. Except as required by applicable law, LeddarTech does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Maram Fityani, Media and Public Relations, LeddarTech Holdings Inc.
    Tel.: + 1-418-653-9000 ext. 623, maram.fityani@leddartech.com

    Leddar, LeddarTech, LeddarVision, LeddarSP, VAYADrive, VayaVision and related logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeddarTech Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names and marks are or may be trademarks or registered trademarks used to identify products or services of their respective owners.

    LeddarTech Holdings Inc. is a public company listed on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “LDTC.”

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: Regular Press Briefing of the Ministry of National Defense on May 8th, 2025 2025-05-14 Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), answers recent media queries concerning the military on March 8th, 2025.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense 2

    On the afternoon of May 8th, 2025, Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND), answered recent media queries concerning the military.

    Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), answers recent media queries concerning the military on May 8th, 2025.  (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Zhang Zhicheng)

    (The following English text is for reference. In case of any divergence of interpretation, the Chinese text shall prevail.)

    Zhang Xiaogang: I have two pieces of information to announce on the top.

    Firstly, in mid-to-late May, the Chinese and Cambodian militaries will hold the “Golden Dragon-2025” joint exercise in Cambodia. Focusing on joint counter-terrorism and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations, the exercise will be conducted both on land and at sea, as well as in relevant air spaces. Cultural and sports exchanges, and vessel open day activities will also be conducted. This exercise will be the 7th of its kind between the Chinese and Cambodian militaries. It will facilitate practical cooperation between the two sides and contribute to the building of a China-Cambodia all-weather community with a shared future for the new era.

    Secondly, from May 13th to 14th, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense will host the 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Military Medicine Seminar in Xi’an. Under the theme of “Building an SCO Community with a Shared Future: Contributions from Military Medicine”, leaders of military health departments and medical experts from countries including Russia, Cambodia and Sri Lanka will attend the event. As the rotating presidency of the SCO this year, China will host multiple events including the SCO Defense Ministers’ Meeting and the Military Medicine Seminar, and actively contribute to building a closer SCO Community with a Shared Future.

    Journalist: It is reported that the “Eagles of Civilization-2025” joint air force training between China and Egypt has recently concluded. Could you please review this joint training and brief us on its features?

    Zhang Xiaogang: From April 17th to May 4th, the air forces of China and Egypt held the first “Eagles of Civilization-2025” joint training at an Egyptian air force base. The Chinese Air Force dispatched J-10C, KJ-500 and YY-20 aircraft to participate. This was the first time that China sent force packages to Africa for joint training, during which the two sides conducted drills on such subjects as air superiority operations, suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD), battlefield search and rescue, and mixed grouping. Discussions and exchanges on training models, air combat tactics and aerial refueling were also held. This joint training marks a new starting point for the cooperation between the Chinese and Egyptian militaries. It enhanced the technical and tactical competence of the participating troops, and deepened friendship, mutual trust, and practical cooperation between the two militaries. It is also an effective test of the Chinese Air Force’s capabilities in long-range force projection, agile deployment and systemic operations.

    (Video by Yu Hongchun, Jia Chong and Li Kangxi)

    Journalist: NATO recently released its annual report, labeling China as a “systemic challenge” and claiming that the country is rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal and that its policies pose a threat to the interests, security, and values of NATO member states. What’s your comment on that?

    Zhang Xiaogang: The relevant report by NATO reflects nothing but the Cold War mentality. The hype-up of the so-called “China threat” is in blatant disregard of the facts and simply barking up the wrong tree. China never seeks to challenge or threaten anyone. China’s nuclear policy is highly stable, consistent, and predictable. China unswervingly follows a nuclear strategy of self-defense, with its nuclear forces always kept at the minimum level required for national security.

    In contrast, NATO has been overreaching in recent years, expanding its remit, and interfering in the Asia-Pacific. These actions seriously undermine regional peace and stability. NATO possesses the world’s largest nuclear arsenal through its nuclear-sharing arrangements. Some member states are investing heavily in upgrading their strategic forces and there are plans to pursue nuclear submarine cooperation that would involve the large-scale transfer of weapon-grade nuclear material to non-nuclear-weapon states. Relevant practices constitute a grave violation of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), severely undermine the international nuclear non-proliferation system, and deal a huge blow to global strategic security and stability. We urge NATO to take a hard look at its own actions instead of making groundless accusations and shifting blame onto others.

    Journalist: It is reported that during the Philippine-U.S. “Balikatan” exercise, the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong appeared in the waters north of the Philippines. Some analysts believe this might be a response to the Philippine-U.S. military exercise, or to the Philippine patrol vessel’s entering into the waters near Huangyan Dao. Furthermore, the Philippine Navy spokesperson claimed that the Philippine military and Taiwan troops are only one step away from holding joint exercises. What is your comment on this?

    Zhang Xiaogang: The Shandong aircraft carrier task group was conducting its annual training mission in relevant waters to further test and enhance the integrated combat capabilities of the carrier task group. This is in accordance with international law and common practice, and is not directed at any specific country or target.

    Certain individuals in the Philippines are colluding with external forces such as the U.S., to “stir up the sea” for selfish gains, undermining peace and stability in the South China Sea region. They even attempt to play with fire on the Taiwan question. We sternly warn the Philippine side to cease its infringements and provocations, and stop offending China’s core interest in any form. China will continue to take resolute and forceful measures to defend its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.

    Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), answers recent media queries concerning the military on May 8th, 2025.  (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Zhang Zhicheng)

    Journalist: According to reports, the US Secretary of Defense has directed the development of the 2025 National Defense Strategy (NDS), with a particular focus on strengthening deterrence against China in the Indo-Pacific region. Besides, the US military also plans to establish a large storage facility in Subic Bay, the Philippines before 2026, to store weapons, equipment, and logistical supplies. What’s your comment?

    Zhang Xiaogang: To maintain its hegemony and selfish gains, the US has repeatedly made an issue out of China in a vain attempt to turn the Asia-Pacific into a powder keg and reduce certain countries to pawns on the front line. Such actions seriously undermine the security and well-being of peoples across the region. Facts have repeatedly proved that being America’s enemy is dangerous, but being America’s friend can be fatal. We urge the countries concerned not to invite the wolf into the house or willingly become its pawns, and not to undermine the hard-won peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Rania El Rafie Appointed to Jury Panel of the 50 Most Influential African Women in Sports Awards 2025/2026

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

    JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, May 14, 2025/APO Group/ —

    APO Group (https://APO-opa.com) is proud to announce that Rania El Rafie, Vice President of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, has been appointed to the Jury Panel for the 2025/2026 editions of the 50 Most Influential African Women in Sports Awards, an initiative recognising groundbreaking contributions and leadership by women across the African sports ecosystem.

    Organised by Africa Sports Ventures Group (ASVG) and the Women Sports Africa Network (WSAN), the 50 Most Influential African Women in Sports Awards honour outstanding female leaders, athletes, executives, and changemakers who are reshaping the African sports landscape. The esteemed Jury Panel features professionals from across the continent and the diaspora, including Albert Kyei Frimpong, President of WBSC Africa and Board Member of the Confederation of African Olympic Sports Associations (CASOL), and Dr. Maha Zaoui, an experienced sports management expert currently serving as General Manager of Rugby Africa.

    “I’m honoured to be considered for the Jury Panel of the 50 Most Influential African Women in Sports Awards for 2025 and 2026,” said El Rafie. “This platform plays a vital role in amplifying the voices and achievements of women shaping the future of African sport, and I’m proud to contribute to that mission.”

    El Rafie is a seasoned public relations executive with over 22 years of experience across Africa and the Middle East. Based in Cairo, Egypt, she currently serves as Vice President of Public Relations and Strategic Communications at APO Group, where she became the first and youngest person internally promoted to this executive role in January 2024. She has led award-winning campaigns recognised by SABRE Awards, Brands Review Magazine, and World Business Outlook, and was recently awarded a Bronze Stevie® Award in the Most Innovative Woman of the Year 2025 category, and was recognised as one of Africa’s Top 50 Outstanding Women in Communications.

    Her experience in sports communication spans the NFL, Basketball Africa League, International Olympic Committee (IOC), and FIFA. She has also driven pan-African communications strategy for major brands such as Canon, Nestlé, TikTok, and Afreximbank. With a degree in Business Administration from the American University in Dubai, Rania brings strategic insight, media expertise, and a passion for sports and empowerment to the jury’s mission.

    The announcement coincides with the official launch of the Awards’ new digital platform – (https://apo-opa.co/3SxXj9A) – a hub dedicated to honouring and celebrating the achievements of African women in sports. The site will serve as the central point for information, nominations, and public engagement in the lead-up to the 2025 Awards ceremony, scheduled to take place on 31 July 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya. All nominations will be reviewed by an independent Selection Committee.

    This joint initiative marks a landmark moment for African women in sports, aiming to increase visibility, recognition, and opportunities across administration, business, media, technology, and athletics.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: PussFi Launches $PUSS: Turning Memes into Real-Utility Tokens!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PussFi has officially launched $PUSS, the first-ever meme-tility token (a meme coin with real-world utility), on Steemit, a decentralized social media platform. Built on the Tron blockchain, $PUSS combines community culture with tangible functionality inside a growing Web3 ecosystem.

    Rewarding Creativity
    Unlike traditional meme coins that rely heavily on hype and speculation, $PUSS aims to serve as the foundation of the PussFi ecosystem, delivering a comprehensive set of utilities for content creators, token holders, and crypto enthusiasts.

    By integrating directly with Steemit, $PUSS looks to empower users to not only engage with decentralized social media but to earn from their content and participation. The project aims to create a digital environment where creativity is rewarded and the meme economy evolves into a sustainable value-driven space.

    What Can $PUSS Be Used For?
    Central to the PussFi ecosystem is the use of $PUSS for key utilities such as account creation through Steemit-ID, a service enabling users in restricted regions to access Steemit.

    The token also facilitates ABB-Curation, a program that enhances Steemit blogging rewards through $PUSS delegation, and PUSSTEEM, a feature allowing token holders to exchange $PUSS for visibility-increasing upvotes on Steemit. Finally, users can also stake their tokens and earn up to 20% APY.

    The PussFi Blockchain
    In order to distinguish itself further from conventional meme coins, PussFi is undergoing a strategic rebranding of $PUSS into a full-fledged utility token. This transformation includes the development of the PussFi Blockchain, a blockchain inspired by Steem but designed for multi-sector decentralization.

    The new network will support a range of industries including content creation, education, healthcare, finance, and social networking, each operating within a modular, tokenized structure that empowers user engagement through smart contracts and community governance.

    Moreover, the PussFi Blockchain will retain the popular Proof-of-Brain (PoB) rewards model pioneered by Steem while introducing modern enhancements such as decentralized identity, token-based learning systems, privacy-first healthcare frameworks, embedded DeFi tools, and censorship-resistant social networking.

    Looking Ahead
    PussFi is developing several new projects designed to expand the token’s relevance and real-world use. These include blockchain-based games that reward players in $PUSS, a native decentralized blogging platform called Steemit.blog, and upcoming listings on centralized exchanges to improve liquidity and access.

    These developments are part of a broader strategy to build a robust Web3 ecosystem centered around long-term user value. PussFi remains focused on building a platform where community, creativity, and technology intersect meaningfully.

    About PussFi
    The team behind $PUSS and PussFi believes that users deserve more than entertainment, they deserve tools, incentives, and ownership in the platforms they support. This philosophy drives every layer of the PussFi vision, from token utility to blockchain architecture.

    PussFi invites early adopters, creators, and blockchain enthusiasts to join a growing movement that is redefining what meme tokens can be. According to the team, with $PUSS, users can expect real-world value, long-term opportunity, and a decentralized future built for everyone.

    For more information and regular updates, visit PussFi’s official website alongside the Telegram, Discord, and X (Twitter) channels.

    Media contact:
    Julian Mercer 
    puss@puss.meme

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by PussFi. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

    Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c9f5ceef-09b9-416c-b0f8-47930d91c87f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Kuwait: Qudsi Rasheed

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Kuwait: Qudsi Rasheed

    Mr Qudsi Rasheed OBE has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to The State of Kuwait.

    Mr Qudsi Rasheed OBE has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to The State of Kuwait in succession to Ms Belinda Lewis who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.  Mr Rasheed will take up his appointment during September 2025.

    Curriculum vitae

    Full Name: Qudsi Rasheed

    Year Role
    2021 to 2024 Cairo, Deputy Head of Mission
    2020 to 2021    Full Time Language Training (Arabic), FCDO four months as Deputy Director Covid Task Force
    2018 to 2020   FCO later FCDO, Deputy Director Multilateral Policy and Head of Sanctions Unit
    2017 to 2018  Beirut, Head of UK Syria Office
    2014 to 2017 UKRep Brussels, External Relations (Relex) Counsellor
    2011 to 2014   FCO, Legal Adviser, Legal Directorate
    2011 Joined FCO
    2008 to 2011  Barrister (called to the Bar of England and Wales)
    2007 to 2009   UCL and King’s College London, Visiting Lecturer

    Updates to this page

    Published 14 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: #iubilaeum2025 – Audience with Participants in the Jubilee of the Eastern Churches

    Source: The Holy See

    #iubilaeum2025 – Audience with Participants in the Jubilee of the Eastern Churches, 14.05.2025
    This morning, in the Paul VI Hall, the Holy Father Leo XIV received in audience the participants in the Jubilee of the Eastern Churches.
    The following is the address delivered by the Pope to the participants in the audience:

    Address of the Holy Father
    Your Beatitudes, Your Eminence, Your Excellencies,
    Dear priests, consecrated men and women,
    Dear brothers and sisters,
    Christ is risen. He is truly risen! I greet you in these words that Eastern Christians in many lands never tire of repeating during the Easter season, as they profess the very heart of our faith and hope. It is very moving for me to see you here during the Jubilee of Hope, a hope unshakably grounded in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Welcome to Rome! I am happy to be with you and to devote one of the first audiences of my pontificate to the Eastern faithful.
    You are precious in God’s eyes. Looking at you, I think of the diversity of your origins, your glorious history and the bitter sufferings that many of your communities have endured or continue to endure. I would like to reaffirm the conviction of Pope Francis that the Eastern Churches are to be “cherished and esteemed for the unique spiritual and sapiential traditions that they preserve, and for all that they have to say to us about the Christian life, synodality, and the liturgy. We think of early Fathers, the Councils, and monasticism… inestimable treasures for the Church (Address to Participants in the Meeting of Aid Agencies for the Oriental Churches [ROACO], 27 June 2024).
    I would also like to mention Pope Leo XIII, the first Pope to devote a specific document to the dignity of your Churches, inspired above all by the fact that, in his words, “the work of human redemption began in the East” (cf. Apostolic Letter Orientalium Dignitas, 30 November 1894). Truly, you have “a unique and privileged role as the original setting where the Church was born” (SAINT JOHN PAUL II, Orientale Lumen, 5). It is significant that several of your liturgies – which you are now solemnly celebrating in Rome in accordance with your various traditions – continue to use the language of the Lord Jesus. Indeed, Pope Leo XIII made a heartfelt appeal that the “legitimate variety of Eastern liturgy and discipline… may redound to the great honor and benefit of the Church” (Orientalium Dignitas). His desire remains ever timely. In our own day too, many of our Eastern brothers and sisters, including some of you, have been forced to flee their homelands because of war and persecution, instability and poverty, and risk losing not only their native lands, but also, when they reach the West, their religious identity. As a result, with the passing of generations, the priceless heritage of the Eastern Churches is being lost.
    Over a century ago, Leo XIII pointed out that “preserving the Eastern rites is more important than is generally realized”. He went so far as to decree that “any Latin-Rite missionary, whether a member of the secular or regular clergy, who by advice or support draws any Eastern-Rite Catholic to the Latin Rite” ought to be “dismissed and removed from his office” (ibid). We willingly reiterate this appeal to preserve and promote the Christian East, especially in the diaspora. In addition to establishing Eastern circumscriptions wherever possible and opportune, there is a need to promote greater awareness among Latin Christians. In this regard, I ask the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches – which I thank for its work – to help me to define principles, norms, and guidelines whereby Latin Bishops can concretely support Eastern Catholics in the diaspora in their efforts to preserve their living traditions and thus, by their distinctive witness, to enrich the communities in which they live.
    The Church needs you. The contribution that the Christian East can offer us today is immense! We have great need to recover the sense of mystery that remains alive in your liturgies, liturgies that engage the human person in his or her entirety, that sing of the beauty of salvation and evoke a sense of wonder at how God’s majesty embraces our human frailty! It is likewise important to rediscover, especially in the Christian West, a sense of the primacy of God, the importance of mystagogy and the values so typical of Eastern spirituality: constant intercession, penance, fasting, and weeping for one’s own sins and for those of all humanity (penthos)! It is vital, then, that you preserve your traditions without attenuating them, for the sake perhaps of practicality or convenience, lest they be corrupted by the mentality of consumerism and utilitarianism.
    Your traditions of spirituality, ancient yet ever new, are medicinal. In them, the drama of human misery is combined with wonder at God’s mercy, so that our sinfulness does not lead to despair, but opens us to accepting the gracious gift of becoming creatures who are healed, divinized and raised to the heights of heaven. For this, we ought to give endless praise and thanks to the Lord. Together, we can pray with Saint Ephrem the Syrian and say to the Lord Jesus: “Glory to you, who laid your cross as a bridge over death… Glory to you who clothed yourself in the body of mortal man, and made it the source of life for all mortals” (Homily on our Lord, 9). We must ask, then, for the grace to see the certainty of Easter in every trial of life and not to lose heart, remembering, as another great Eastern Father wrote, that “the greatest sin is not to believe in the power of the Resurrection” (SAINT ISAAC OF NINEVEH, Sermones ascetici, I, 5).
    Who, better than you, can sing a song of hope even amid the abyss of violence? Who, better than you, who have experienced the horrors of war so closely that Pope Francis referred to you as “martyr Churches” (Address to ROACO, ibid.)? From the Holy Land to Ukraine, from Lebanon to Syria, from the Middle East to Tigray and the Caucasus, how much violence do we see! Rising up from this horror, from the slaughter of so many young people, which ought to provoke outrage because lives are being sacrificed in the name of military conquest, there resounds an appeal: the appeal not so much of the Pope, but of Christ himself, who repeats: “Peace be with you!” (Jn 20:19, 21, 26). And he adds: “Peace I leave you; my peace I give to you. I do not give it to you as the world gives it” (Jn 14:27). Christ’s peace is not the sepulchral silence that reigns after conflict; it is not the fruit of oppression, but rather a gift that is meant for all, a gift that brings new life. Let us pray for this peace, which is reconciliation, forgiveness, and the courage to turn the page and start anew.
    For my part, I will make every effort so that this peace may prevail. The Holy See is always ready to help bring enemies together, face to face, to talk to one another, so that peoples everywhere may once more find hope and recover the dignity they deserve, the dignity of peace. The peoples of our world desire peace, and to their leaders I appeal with all my heart: Let us meet, let us talk, let us negotiate! War is never inevitable. Weapons can and must be silenced, for they do not resolve problems but only increase them. Those who make history are the peacemakers, not those who sow seeds of suffering. Our neighbours are not first our enemies, but our fellow human beings; not criminals to be hated, but other men and women with whom we can speak. Let us reject the Manichean notions so typical of that mindset of violence that divides the world into those who are good and those who are evil.
    The Church will never tire of repeating: let weapons be silenced. I would like to thank God for all those who, in silence, prayer and self-sacrifice, are sowing seeds of peace. I thank God for those Christians – Eastern and Latin alike – who, above all in the Middle East, persevere and remain in their homelands, resisting the temptation to abandon them. Christians must be given the opportunity, and not just in words, to remain in their native lands with all the rights needed for a secure existence. Please, let us strive for this!
    Thank you, dear brothers and sisters of the East, the lands where Jesus, the Sun of Justice, dawned, for being “lights in our world” (cf. Mt 5:14). Continue to be outstanding for your faith, hope, and charity, and nothing else. May your Churches be exemplary, and may your Pastors promote communion with integrity, especially in the Synods of Bishops, that they may be places of fraternity and authentic co-responsibility. Ensure transparency in the administration of goods and be signs of humble and complete dedication to the holy people of God, without regard for honors, worldly power or appearance. Saint Symeon the New Theologian used an eloquent image in this regard: “Just as one who throws dust on the flame of a burning furnace extinguishes it, so the cares of this life and every kind of attachment to petty and worthless things destroy the warmth of the heart that was initially kindled” (Practical and Theological Chapters, 63). Today more than ever, the splendor of the Christian East demands freedom from all worldly attachments and from every tendency contrary to communion, in order to remain faithful in obedience and in evangelical witness.
    I thank you for this, and in cordially giving you my blessing, I ask you to pray for the Church and to raise your powerful prayers of intercession for my ministry. Thank you!

    MIL OSI Europe News –