NewzIntel.com

Category: Middle East

  • UAE university team develops improved non-surgical blood flow monitoring device

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Researchers from United Arab Emirates University have created an enhanced technology for monitoring blood flow without surgery, using piezoelectric pressure sensors. The innovation measures crucial physiological parameters including blood flow velocity and viscosity by utilizing materials that generate electric fields when subjected to mechanical stress.

    The improved version delivers greater accuracy in data interpretation while being more cost-effective than existing alternatives, making it suitable for deployment in both clinical and home environments. The technology provides real-time monitoring capabilities that can help detect potentially dangerous conditions such as blood clots.

    “Our goal is to improve an existing technology to make it more accurate and user-friendly, benefiting both patients and healthcare providers,” said Professor Mahmoud Al Ahmad, who supervised the research team. “It is worth mentioning that this project provided a training opportunity for four undergraduate students in scientific research.”

    The team plans to incorporate artificial intelligence in future iterations to further enhance the system’s capabilities and expand its applications. This development aligns with the UAE’s strategic vision to advance medical technology and reduce dependence on imported healthcare solutions.

    The innovation strengthens the local medical device manufacturing sector and supports the UAE’s ongoing transition toward a knowledge-based economy. By creating more accessible diagnostic tools, the research contributes to promoting health equity and providing accurate, affordable medical diagnostics globally.

  • Iran, US to resume nuclear talks amid clashing red lines

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Top Iranian and U.S. negotiators will resume talks on Sunday to address disputes over Tehran’s nuclear programme, in a push for progress as Washington hardens its stance ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East visit.

    Though Tehran and Washington both have said they prefer diplomacy to resolve the decades-long dispute, they remain deeply divided on several red lines that negotiators will have to circumvent to reach a new nuclear deal and avert future military action.

    Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff will hold the fourth round of talks in Muscat through Omani mediators, despite Washington taking a tough stance in public that Iranian officials said would not help the negotiations.

    Witkoff told Breitbart News on Thursday that Washington’s red line is: “No enrichment. That means dismantlement, no weaponization,” requiring the complete dismantling of Iran’s nuclear facilities in Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan.

    If they are not productive on Sunday, then they won’t continue and we’ll have to take a different route,” Witkoff said in the interview.

    Trump, who has threatened military action against Iran if diplomacy fails, will travel to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates on May 13-16.

    Reacting to Witkoff’s comments, Araqchi said on Saturday that Iran would not compromise on its nuclear rights.

    “Iran continues negotiations in good faith … if the aim of these talks is to limit Iran’s nuclear rights, I state clearly that Iran will not back down from any of its rights,” Araqchi said.

    Tehran is willing to negotiate some curbs on its nuclear work in return for the lifting of sanctions, according to Iranian officials, but ending its enrichment programme or surrendering its enriched uranium stockpile are among “Iran’s red lines that could not be compromised” in the talks.

    A senior Iranian official close to the negotiating team said that U.S. demands for “zero enrichment and dismantling Iran’s nuclear sites would not help in progressing the negotiations.

    What the U.S. says publicly differs from what is said in negotiations,” the official said on condition of anonymity.

    He said matters would become clearer when talks take place on Sunday, which was initially planned for May 3 in Rome but were postponed due to what Oman described as “logistical reasons”.

    Moreover, Iran has flatly ruled out negotiating its ballistic missile programme and the clerical establishment demands watertight guarantees Trump would not again ditch a nuclear pact.

    Trump, who has restored a “maximum pressure” campaign on Tehran since February, exited Tehran’s 2015 nuclear pact with six world powers in 2018 during his first term and reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran.

    Iran, which has long said its nuclear programme is peaceful, has breached the 2015 pact’s nuclear curbs since 2019 including “dramatically” accelerating its enrichment of uranium to up to 60% purity, close to the roughly 90% level that is weapons-grade, according to the U.N. nuclear watchdog.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI USA: Díaz-Balart Congratulates Secretary Marco Rubio on CHLI Lifetime Leadership Award

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Vice Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI), issued the following statement following CHLI’s “Lifetime Leadership Award” to Secretary Marco Rubio, the highest-ranking Latino government official:

    “Secretary Marco Rubio is a dear and close friend who has made our community extremely proud. President Donald J. Trump made an excellent choice in appointing him to serve as our Secretary of State­–he is an extraordinary, brilliant statesman and one of the most qualified and distinguished individuals to hold that position in decades.

    “From our days together in Florida’s legislature to our collaboration on bicameral efforts, it has been an honor to work alongside him and to know him on a personal level. I have witnessed firsthand the discipline and dedication he brings to everything he does and represents. Secretary Rubio understands the importance of safeguarding our national security and is one of the staunchest defenders of the cause of freedom, especially in the face of anti-American, tyrannical regimes such as those in Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Iran, North Korea, and Communist China.

    “Secretary Rubio’s career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service and to building a stronger America. It is also a powerful reminder to our community, and to young people everywhere, that the American Dream is still alive and well, and that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. I also want to recognize his wife, Jeanette Rubio, whose support has been crucial every step of the way.

    I extend my heartfelt congratulations to him on receiving the CHLI Lifetime Leadership Award.”

    Read Secretary Rubio’s remarks here

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Liberal Party reclaims Goldstein – how Tim Wilson turned back the Teal tidal wave

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Phoebe Hayman, PhD Candidate and Casual Academic in Politics, La Trobe University

    Tim Wilson’s victory over independent MP Zoe Daniel to reclaim his Melbourne seat of Goldstein has grabbed post-election headlines.

    He is the only Liberal to achieve such a feat since six Teals stormed inner-city blue-ribbon seats at the 2022 election. Wilson’s return to parliament has triggered talk of a possible tilt for the Liberal Party leadership.

    How remarkable was his victory in Goldstein? Could his successful campaign be a template for other Liberals hoping to seize back territory from the Teals?

    Coalition fightback

    Other coalition candidates also triumphed over high-profile independents.

    The Liberal Party has retained Bradfield, with Gisele Kapterian edging out Teal candidate Nicolette Boele.

    Frontbencher Dan Tehan held off a strong challenge from Alex Dyson in Wannon. Likewise, backbencher Pat Conaghan, who was challenged by Caz Heise in Cowper.

    Meanwhile in Kooyong, Amelia Hamer fell just short of Teal MP Monique Ryan.

    Growing support

    Despite the setbacks in some seats, the community independents movement is stronger than ever in 2025.

    Curtin’s Kate Chaney was widely tipped to lose her seat, but she was returned with a small two-party preferred swing.

    Other crossbenchers are back in Clark, Indi, Mackellar, Mayo, Warringah and Wentworth.

    Independent Dai Le who is not aligned with the Teals, was returned in Fowler. So, too, Andrew Gee in Calare.

    Independents received strong support from a number of quarters.

    Climate 200 funded 35 candidates, up from 22 three years ago. The Regional Voices Fund supported 13 non-metropolitan independents. The volunteer armies knocking on doors were larger than ever before.

    Voters responded. On the latest count, Labor’s primary vote was less than 35%, while support for the Liberal Party declined to around 32%. Minor parties and independents picked up 33% of the vote, with the Teals doing particularly well, according to ABC election analyst Antony Green:

    All these Teals won from second place last time. This time they are winning from first place.

    Wilson’s success in Goldstein bucked these national trends. So how did he do it?

    Learning the lessons from 2022

    At the last electon, Wilson ran using the same messaging as the national campaign – national security and the economy.

    Wilson repeatedly referred to Daniel as a Climate 200 “fake independent” and reframed the local focus of independents as “parochial”. His campaign was negative and unsuccessful.

    Wilson’s 2025 campaign had a distinct shift in tone. It is clear that he learned many lessons from his Teal rival.

    This time around, he embraced social media with a focus on community and “listening”. Despite a reputation for being combative, his posts showed a positive, hyper-local campaign that did not mention his rival at all.

    When he tapped into national themes, he focused on low inflation, affordable homes and community safety.

    Tim Wilson campaign advertisement for the seat of Goldstein.

    Like the Teals, he also managed to muster an army of volunteers. These grassroots efforts began almost a year before the election, kicked off with forums to hear from the community. Door knocking and high visibility across the electorate made a difference.

    The Jewish vote

    Goldstein is home to a significant concentration of Jewish voters and securing their vote was vital.

    The Israel-Gaza conflict, and the firebombing attack on the orthodox Adass Israel synagogue in nearby Ripponlea, brought the issue of antisemitism to the fore in the lead up to the campaign.

    For Wilson, this was the only issue on which he went negative. Daniel’s campaign described his line of attack as “brutal, hostile and abusive”.

    But it paid off with Wilson recording swings of up to 7.56% across Caulfield and Elsternwick, where the Jewish population is largest. This enabled him to recover much of the ground lost in 2022.

    Teal campaign more negative

    Daniel’s task as an independent MP was to convince voters she delivered for her community. But this was difficult to showcase, given the crowded nature of the crossbench in the 47th parliament.

    Daniel still had a strong grassroots movement behind her. But her messages about Dutton, emphasising his hard man, “Trumpian” character, brought a more negative tone to her campaign.

    Daniel recorded large swings of up to 10% in suburbs such as Moorabbin and Bentleigh, which have a lower socio-economic base than the other parts of the electorate and have traditionally voted Labor.

    But the “Golden Mile” that stretches along the bay from Brighton to Black Rock swung heavily toward Wilson. In wealthier suburbs, such as Hampton, he secured swings of up to 10% in the two-party preferred count.

    With such narrow margins, these shifts were enough to change the outcome.

    Building momentum

    Wilson won in part by adopting the campaign strategies used by the Teals. We should expect to see more candidates – including from the major parties – using these tools in future elections.

    Despite Daniel’s defeat, support for community candidates grew in 2025. But to overcome institutional barriers and the vagaries of preferences, independents will need to continue to build on their momentum.

    In 2028, the new election donations laws will also be in effect, which will limit the war chests raised by community independents.

    Campaigning skills and strategy will prove more important than ever.

    Phoebe Hayman receives funding from the Department of Education via a Research Training Scholarship.

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

    – ref. Liberal Party reclaims Goldstein – how Tim Wilson turned back the Teal tidal wave – https://theconversation.com/liberal-party-reclaims-goldstein-how-tim-wilson-turned-back-the-teal-tidal-wave-256201

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • UAE schools to teach AI starting in kindergarten

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The United Arab Emirates will introduce artificial intelligence as a mandatory subject across all government schools beginning next academic year, positioning the nation at the forefront of educational innovation in preparation for an increasingly technology-driven future.

    Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the comprehensive curriculum initiative on social media, emphasizing the country’s commitment to equipping its youth with both technical AI knowledge and ethical understanding of the technology.

    “Our responsibility is to equip our children for a time unlike ours, with conditions different from ours, and with new skills and capabilities that ensure the continued momentum of development and progress in our nation for decades to come,” Sheikh Mohammed stated.

    The program will span the entire educational journey from kindergarten through Grade 12, making the UAE one of the first nations globally to implement such extensive AI education. The Ministry of Education has developed a curriculum that balances technical proficiency with ethical considerations, teaching students about data, algorithms, applications, and potential risks. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader vision of cultivating a technologically advanced workforce capable of navigating and leading in an AI-dominated landscape. By starting AI education at such an early age, the country aims to normalize technological fluency and critical thinking about emerging technologies among its youngest citizens. The announcement reflects the UAE’s proactive approach to educational reform, recognizing that tomorrow’s economic and social challenges will require fundamentally different skill sets than those of previous generations. Through this curriculum, the nation hopes to maintain its developmental momentum and competitive edge in the global knowledge economy.

     

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fresh & Ready Foods Voluntarily Recalls Ready-to-Eat Sandwiches and Snack Items Sold in Arizona, California, Nevada and Washington Due to Possible Listeria monocytogenes Contamination

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Fresh & Ready Foods Breakfast Bistro Box
    4oz
    1-FRBIST001
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    05/09/2025 – 05/12/2025

    Fresh & Ready Foods Antipasto Bistro Box
    4oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Artisan Cheese Bistro Box
    4oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Veggie Snack Bistro Box
    4oz
    1-FRBIST005
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Protein Snack
    3oz
    1-FRESLSNK001
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Caprese Baguette
    6.5oz
    1-FRSLBBG001
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Italian Ciabatta Sandwich
    8oz
    1-FRSLBCB003
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Thai Chicken on Ciabatta Sandwich
    9oz
    1-FRSLBCB004
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Turkey & Cheese Croissant Sandwich
    6oz
    1-FRSLBCR001
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Ham & Cheese Croissant Sandwich
    6.5oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwich
    6oz
    1-FRSLBCR003
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Dark Wheat Sandwich
    7oz
    1-FRSLBDW001
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Ham & Cheese Dark Wheat Sandwich
    7oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods El Cubano Sandwich
    8oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Turkey & Cheese Focaccia Sandwich
    8oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Turkey & Cheese Mega Sandwich
    7.5oz
    1-FRSLBME001
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Ham & Cheese Mega Sandwich
    7.5oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Mega Italian Sandwich
    7.5oz
    1-FRSLBME003
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Turkey Cranberry Multigrain Sandwich
    7oz
    1-FRSLBMG001
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Turkey & Cheese Multigrain Sandwich
    7oz
    1-FRSLBMG002
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Tuna Salad Multigrain Sandwich
    6.5oz
    1-FRSLBMG004
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Chicken Salad Multigrain Sandwich
    6oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Roasted Chicken Multigrain Sandwich
    5oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Turkey & Bacon Club Multigrain Sandwich
    6oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Petzel Bun Sandwich
    8oz
    1-FRSLBPRZ001
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Mike’s Tuna Mac Pasta
    9oz
    1-FRSLBPS001
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Garlic Pesto Pasta
    9oz
    1-FRSLBPS002
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Almonds & Chocolate Snack
    3oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Street Corn Dipper Snack
    4oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Turkey & Cheese Sub Sandwich
    6oz
    1-FRSLBSR001
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Ham & Cheese Sub Sandwich
    6oz
    1-FRSLBSR002
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Italian Hoagie Sandwich
    6oz
    1-FRSLBSR004
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Sub Club Supreme
    6oz
    1-FRSLBSR005
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Beef Cheesesteak Sub Sandwich
    7oz
    1-FRSLBSR009
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Turkey & Cheese on Wheat Sandwich
    5oz
    1-FRSLBTR001WW
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Ham & Cheese on Wheat Sandwich
    5oz
    1-FRSLBTR004WW
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Tuna Salad on Wheat Sandwich
    4.5oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Roast Beef on Wheat Sandwich
    5oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Egg Salad on Wheat Sandwich
    4.5oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods PB&J on White Sandwich
    5oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Club Sandwich on Wheat Sandwich
    5oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Chicken Salad on Wheat Sandwich
    4.5oz
    1-FRSLBTR012WW
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Roasted Chicken on Wheat Sandwich
    8.5oz
    1-FRSLBTR013WW
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Ham Torta Sandwich
    4.5oz
    1-FRSLBTS001
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Chicken Torta Sandwich
    9oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Turkey & Cheese Croissant Sandwich
    6oz
    6-COSSLBCR001-CS
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Turkey & Cheese Multigrain Sandwich
    7.5oz
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Turkey & Cheese Multigrain Sandwich
    7oz
    6-COSSLBMG003-CS
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Turkey & Bacon Club Multigrain Sandwich
    6.5oz
    6-COSSLBMG007-CS
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    05/12/2025 – 05/12/2025

    Fresh & Ready Foods Garlic Pesto Pasta
    9.5oz
    6-COSSLBPS002-CS
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    Fresh & Ready Foods Egg Salad on Wheat Sandwich
    5oz
    6-COSSLBTR007WW-CS
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    City Point Market Fresh Food to Go Turkey & Cheese on Wheat Sandwich
    5.5oz
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    City Point Market Fresh Food to Go Ham & Cheese on Wheat Sandwich
    5oz
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    City Point Market Fresh Food to Go Caprese Baguette
    6.5oz
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    City Point Market PB&J Crunch on Country White
    6oz
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    City Point Market Fresh Food to Go Protein Snack
    3oz
    6-CPM041-CS
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    05/13/2025 – 05/13/2025

    City Point Market Fresh Food to Go Turkey & Bacon Multigrain Sandwich
    6oz
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    City Point Market Fresh Food to Go Club Supreme Sub Sandwich
    6oz
    6-CPM046-CS
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    City Point Market Fresh Food to Go Italian Hoagie Sub Sandwich
    6oz
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    City Point Market Fresh Food to Go Turkey & Cheese Sub Sandwich
    6oz
    6-CPM048-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Turkey & Bacon Multigrain Sandwich
    6oz
    6-FTESLMG001-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Protein Snack
    3oz
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Club Supreme Sub Sandwich
    6oz
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Italian Hogie Sub Sandwich
    6oz
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Turkey & Cheese Sub Sandwich
    6oz
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Beef Cheesesteak Sub Sandwich
    6oz
    6-FTESLSR004-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Turkey & Cheese Croissant
    6oz
    6-FTSLBCR001-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Chicken Salad Croissant
    6.5oz 
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    Fresh Take Crave Away BPB&J on Country White
    6oz
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    Fresh Take Crave Away El Cubano Sandwich
    8oz
    6-FTSLBEC001-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Turkey & Cheese Focaccia
    8oz 
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Turkey & Cheese Mega
    8.5oz 
    6-FTSLBME001-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Ham & Cheese Mega
    8.5oz
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Italian Mega
    9.5oz 
    6-FTSLBME003-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Turkey Cranberry Multigrain Sandwich
    6.5oz
    6-FTSLBMG001-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Chicken Salad Multigrain Sandwich
    6oz
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Turkey & Bacon Club Multigrain Sandwich
    6.5oz 
    6-FTSLBMG007-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Mike’s Tuna Mac Pasta
    9.5oz
    6-FTSLBPS001-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Garlic Pesto Pasta
    9.5oz
    6-FTSLBPS002-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Street Corn Dipper
    4oz
    6-FTSLBSNK020-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Ham & Cheese Sub
    6oz
    6-FTSLBSR002-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Turkey & Cheese On Wheat Sandwich
    5.5oz
    6-FTSLBTR001WW-CS
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    05/09/2025 – 05/19/2025

    Fresh Take Crave Away Ham & Cheese on Wheat Sandwich
    5oz
    6-FTSLBTR004WW-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Tuna Salad on Wheat Sandwich
    5oz
    6-FTSLBTR005WW-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Egg Salad on Wheat Sandwich
    5oz
    6-FTSLBTR007WW-CS
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    Fresh Take Crave Away Chicken Salad on Wheat Sandwich
    4.5oz
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    05/09/2025 – 05/19/2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi’s call for learning from history echoed by int’l community

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese President Xi Jinping’s signed article recently published in the Russian Gazette newspaper, which called for learning from history, and especially the hard lessons of the Second World War, has resonated with the international community.

    In the article titled “Learning from History to Build Together a Brighter Future,” Xi urged the international community to draw wisdom and strength from the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War, resolutely resist all forms of hegemonism and power politics, and work together to build a brighter future for humanity.

    Echoing Xi’s view, experts and officials in multiple countries stated that in today’s world — where unilateralism, hegemony and bullying practices pose severe threats — the international community should stand on the right side of history, uphold fairness and justice, resolutely safeguard the post-war international order, and work together to secure a brighter future for humanity.

    UPHOLD HISTORICAL TRUTH

    This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War and the World Anti-Fascist War. On this occasion, Xi’s call for upholding a correct historical perspective on World War II (WWII) carries significant contemporary relevance, said Alexey Rodionov, a professor of Chinese studies at St. Petersburg State University.

    As emphasized in Xi’s signed article, historical memory and truth serve as inspirations that mirror the present and illuminate the future, said Wirun Phichaiwongphakdee, director of the Thailand-China Research Center of the Belt and Road Initiative.

    Defending history is not only a way to honor the past but also a means of safeguarding fairness and justice in today’s world, he said.

    Katsuo Nishiyama, a Japanese germ warfare scholar and professor emeritus at Shiga University of Medical Science, said any attempts to distort the historical truth of WWII or deny its victorious outcome will not succeed, and the international community will not tolerate attempts to reverse history’s progress.

    To protect historical truth, efforts are still needed to prevent future tragedies, the expert warned.

    French entrepreneur and commentator Arnaud Bertrand said China has become a major country staunchly supporting multilateral institutions and international law. “Xi’s article is a clear window into current Chinese strategic thinking. China is positioning itself as a defender of the post-WWII international order against ‘hegemonic’ forces,” he said.

    RECOGNIZE PIVOTAL CONTRIBUTION

    In his signed article, President Xi stressed that China and the Soviet Union served as the mainstay of resistance against Japanese militarism and German Nazism, making pivotal contribution to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War.

    As the main theater in the East of the World Anti-Fascist War, China played a pivotal role in defeating Japanese militarism and achieving broader victory over fascism, an outcome made possible by the immense sacrifices of the Chinese people, said Boris Cheltsov, scientific secretary of the Victory Museum in Moscow.

    “The Chinese people displayed extraordinary resilience and courage under extremely difficult conditions,” he said.

    In the article, Xi emphasized that Taiwan’s restoration to China was a victorious outcome of WWII and an integral part of the postwar international order.

    Taiwan is part of China, and China’s sovereignty over Taiwan is both legal and a recognized fact, said Mohab Nassar, associate professor of international law at Cairo University.

    DEFEND JUSTICE, NOT HEGEMONISM

    Today, the global deficits in peace, development, security and governance continue to widen unabated, Xi wrote in his article. To address these deficits, Xi proposed building a community with a shared future for mankind and put forward the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative as a way forward to steer the reform of the global governance system toward greater fairness and justice.

    Akkan Suver, president of the Marmara Group Foundation in Türkiye, said the three major global initiatives proposed by Xi are fair, just and truly uphold multilateralism.

    Despite rising unilateralism, China firmly opposes all forms of hegemony and power politics and is committed to maintaining international rules and order, which aligns with the common interests of developing countries, Suver said.

    In the face of various conflicts, the international community needs dialogue and cooperation, not division; global development requires rationality and conscience, not power politics, said Suver.

    President Xi has proposed to build a community with a shared future for mankind, emphasizing dialogue rather than confrontation, partnership rather than alliance, and win-win rather than zero-sum outcomes, said Abdullah Al-Dosari, editor in chief of Kuwait’s Al-Arab Electronic Newspaper.

    The Middle East region has long been in turmoil, with peace deficit growing larger and larger, Al-Dosari said, noting that Xi’s proposal has great significance for regional peace and stability. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 12, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 12, 2025.

    Victoria’s planning reforms could help solve the housing crisis. But they are under threat
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brendan Coates, Program Director, Housing and Economic Security, Grattan Institute An aerial drone view of northern Melbourne suburbs. Elias Bitar/Shutterstock The federal election campaign was dominated by the housing crisis. But the real power to solve it rests with the states. In Victoria, reforms are underway that

    Footy’s ‘code wars’ are back, but which is actually the No. 1 Australian sport: the NRL or AFL?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tim Harcourt, Industry Professor and Chief Economist, University of Technology Sydney NRL Photos, Matt Turner/AAP, Wikimedia, The Conversation, CC BY Every now and then, so-called “code wars” erupt between the major Australia winter football codes: the National Rugby League (NRL) and the Australian Football League (AFL). This

    A prisoner voting ban shows again how few checks there are on parliamentary power
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Winter, Associate Professor in Political Theory, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Getty Images Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith’s recent announcement that the government would reinstate a total ban on prisoners voting was in keeping with the coalition’s overall tough-on-crime approach. The move was called “ridiculous” and

    ‘We’re just doing our best’ – cultural backlash hits Auckland kava business
    By Coco Lance, RNZ Pacific digital journalist A new Auckland-based kava business has found itself at the heart of a cultural debate, with critics raising concerns about appropriation, authenticity, and the future of kava as a deeply rooted Pacific tradition. Vibes Kava, co-founded by Charles Byram and Derek Hillen, operates out of New Leaf Kombucha

    ‘Fighting more frequent now’ – researcher warns of escalating West Papua conflict
    By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist The escalation of violence in West Papua is on par with some of the most intense times of conflict over the past six decades, a human rights researcher says. The United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) claims that Indonesia killed at least one civilian and severely injured another

    India-Pakistan ceasefire shouldn’t disguise fact that norms have changed in South Asia, making future de-escalation much harder
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Farah N. Jan, Senior Lecturer in International Relations, University of Pennsylvania A member of the Indian Border Security Force stands guard near the India-Pakistan border. Narinder Nanu/AFP via Getty Images India and Pakistan have seen the scenario play out before: a terror attack in which Indians are

    Homer’s Iliad is a rap battle
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joshua Forstenzer, Senior Lecturer in Philosophy and Co-Director of the Centre for Engaged Philosophy, University of Sheffield The Anger of Achilles by Jacques-Louis David (1819). Kimbell Art Museum Homer’s Iliad is one of the foundational stories of European civilisation. The Iliad is a long poem – an

    Major brands don’t need to kowtow to Trump: they have the power to bring people together
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Beverland, Professor of Brand Management, University of Sussex Business School, University of Sussex Whatever you think of his personality or politics, it’s impossible to deny the success of Donald Trump as a brand. Supporters and detractors across the world are transfixed by his second term as

    Meteorites and marsquakes hint at an underground ocean of liquid water on the Red Planet
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hrvoje Tkalčić, Professor, Head of Geophysics, Director of Warramunga Array, Australian National University UAESA / MBRSC / Hope Mars Mission / EXI / Andrea Luck, CC BY Evidence is mounting that a secret lies beneath the dusty red plains of Mars, one that could redefine our view

    Why doesn’t Australia make more medicines? Wouldn’t that fix drug shortages?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Coomber, PhD Candidate, Pharmaceutical Supply Chains, The University of Queensland IM Imagery/Shutterstock About 400 medicines are in short supply in Australia. Of these, about 30 are categorised as critical. These are ones with a life-threatening or serious impact on patients, and with no readily available substitutes.

    Farmers fear dingoes are eating their livestock – but predator poo tells an unexpected story
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachel Mason, PhD candidate in Conservation Biology, Deakin University Kristian Bell/Shutterstock Killing carnivores to protect livestock, wildlife and people is an emotive and controversial issue that can cause community conflict. Difficult decisions about managing predators must be supported by strong scientific evidence. In Australia, predators such as

    ‘Cutting off communications’ – did Trump really just turn his back on Israel?
    ANALYSIS: By Robert Inlakesh Israel is in a weak position and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s extremism knows no bounds. The only other way around an eventual regional war is the ousting of the Israeli prime minister. US President Donald Trump has closed his line of communication with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to various

    View from The Hill: if Jacinta Nampijinpa Price became Liberal deputy it would be a wild ride
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Jacinta Nampijinpa Price’s confirmation she will run for Liberal deputy has put the members of an already shell-shocked party into a new spin. Tuesday’s leadership contest, where the numbers are said to be tight, is a battle for the direction

    Dumped minister Ed Husic labels Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles ‘factional assassin’
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Industry Minister Ed Husic, dumped from the frontbench ahead of Anthony Albanese’s announcement of his new ministry, has made an excoriating attack on Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, describing him as a “factional assassin”. Marles, chief of the Victorian right,

    Philippine advocacy group condemns NZ military pact with Manila, rejects election violence
    Asia Pacific Report The Aotearoa Philippines Solidarity national assembly has condemned the National Party-led Coalition government in New Zealand over signing a “deplorable” visiting forces agreement with the Philippine government “Given the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ appalling human rights record and continuing attacks on activists in the Philippines, it is deplorable for the New

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1 and the Republic of Korea Navy’s Sea Salvage and Rescue Unit conclude SALVEX Korea 2025 [Image 2 of 3]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

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    JINHAE NAVAL BASE, Republic of Korea (April 11, 2025) U.S. Navy Divers assigned to Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1, pose for a photo with the Republic of Korea Sea Salvage and Rescue Unit during a joint dive and salvage exercise at Jinhae Naval Base, Republic of Korea, April 11, 2025. Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 sustains the U.S. Navy’s maritime forces and is responsible for all diving and salvage operations in the Western Pacific in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings)

    Date Taken: 04.11.2025
    Date Posted: 04.18.2025 01:49
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    Location: JINHAE, KR
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    This work, Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1 and the Republic of Korea Navy’s Sea Salvage and Rescue Unit conclude SALVEX Korea 2025 [Image 3 of 3], by PO2 Jordan Jennings, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

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  • MIL-OSI China: Officials warn of worse health, humanitarian situation in Gaza

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

    Palestinians wait to receive free food from a food distribution center in Gaza City, on May 9, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Palestinian and UN officials warned Sunday that the health and humanitarian situation in Gaza will further deteriorate if Israel continues its blockade on the enclave.

    About 64 percent of medical supplies in Gaza have run out due to Israel’s continued closure of the crossings, health authorities in Gaza warned Sunday.

    “Indicators of a severe shortage of medicine are accelerating dangerously, with 43 percent of essential medicines at zero stock, a 6-percent increase compared to last month,” the authorities said in a press statement.

    Emergency departments, operating rooms, and intensive care units are operating on depleted stocks, with the number of critically ill patients on the rise, they said, adding that those with kidney failure, tumors, blood and heart diseases, and non-communicable diseases are the most affected.

    “The Israeli occupation is preventing children from leaving Gaza for treatment at a time when the Strip is suffering from a severe shortage of post-amputation assistive devices, such as prosthetic limbs, and a lack of a suitable environment for people with disabilities,” said Bassam Zaqout, director of medical relief in southern Gaza.

    Noting that there are more than 4,000 children on waiting lists for urgent surgeries, including many amputation cases, Zaqout said in a press statement that symptoms of famine have begun to appear among children, leading to serious health problems including immunodeficiency, intestinal diseases, and deadly dehydration.

    Meanwhile, Abdel Salam Sabah, director of the Eye Hospital in Gaza, said a serious shortage of consumables and medical equipment for eye surgeries will lead to a near-total collapse of surgical services, particularly for retinal diseases, diabetic retinopathy, and internal bleeding.

    The Eye Hospital is about to declare its inability to provide any surgical services unless relevant authorities and international organizations intervene immediately, the director said.

    Also on Sunday, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East warned on social media platform X that “the longer this blockade continues, the more irreversible harm is being done to countless lives,” adding the agency has thousands of trucks waiting to enter Gaza.

    Israel halted the entry of goods and supplies into Gaza on March 2, following the expiration of the first phase of a January ceasefire agreement with Hamas. It resumed attacks on Gaza on March 18, which, according to data released by health authorities in Gaza on Sunday, have so far killed 2,720 Palestinians and injured 7,513.

    The UN has repeatedly warned of an impending humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, reporting increasing signs of acute hunger, particularly among children. The situation is rapidly deteriorating as U.S.-based food relief organization World Central Kitchen announced Wednesday that it would halt cooking in Gaza due to the depletion of humanitarian supplies, forcing the closure of most community kitchens in the enclave after running out of stock.

    Amjad Shawa, director of the Palestinian Non-Governmental Organizations Network in Gaza, warned Wednesday that the closure of community kitchens could exacerbate the hunger in Gaza.

    “The repercussions of the severe humanitarian disaster will be significant on the health and lives of citizens, especially children, women, the elderly, and the sick,” Shawa told Xinhua. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Iran says nuclear talks ‘more serious,’ rejects US call to dismantle facilities

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

    This file picture shows Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi speaking at a joint press conference in Tehran, Iran, on Feb. 25, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Sunday that indirect negotiations with the United States in Oman to revive the 2015 nuclear deal had become “much more serious and frank,” as President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected U.S. demands for Tehran to dismantle its nuclear infrastructure.

    The talks in Muscat, facilitated by Oman, mark the latest effort to salvage the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. The United States unilaterally withdrew from the accord in 2018 under U.S. President Donald Trump’s first term, prompting Iran to reduce compliance with its nuclear commitments gradually.

    Araqchi, speaking to Iran’s state-run IRIB TV after the fourth round of negotiations in Oman’s capital, said the discussions had shifted from general topics to more specific proposals. He characterized the talks as “forward-moving” but acknowledged the growing complexity of the issues. Both sides agreed to continue the discussions.

    The latest round, lasting about three hours, follows previous sessions in Muscat on April 12 and 26, and in Rome on April 19.

    Meanwhile, President Pezeshkian firmly rejected U.S. calls to dismantle Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. “This is unacceptable. Iran will not relinquish its peaceful nuclear rights,” he declared, reaffirming Tehran’s stance that its nuclear program is for civilian purposes. He also referenced a religious decree from Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei banning nuclear weapons development.

    Ahead of the Muscat talks, U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff reiterated demands for Iran to completely dismantle its nuclear program, including facilities at Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan. U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have suggested that Iran should import enriched uranium.

    Pezeshkian stressed that Iran’s nuclear activities are essential for “peaceful” purposes, such as radiopharmaceuticals, healthcare, agriculture, and industry. “We are serious in the negotiations and seek an agreement. We hold talks because we want peace,” he said, emphasizing Iran’s commitment to regional peace and security. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: US notifies Israel Hamas plans to release Israeli-American hostage

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

    The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirms that the United States has informed Israel that Hamas will release hostage Edan Alexander “without any compensation or conditions,” in what Washington described as a goodwill gesture expected to pave the way for broader negotiations.

    The release, possibly set for Tuesday, would be the first not tied to the exchange of Palestinian prisoners. Alexander, a U.S.-born soldier, was abducted on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas-led gunmen killed around 1,200 people and took around 250 hostages in a cross-border assault on southern Israel.

    “The United States conveyed to Israel that this move is expected to lead to negotiations based on the original Witkoff framework, which Israel has already accepted,” Netanyahu’s office said, referring to a U.S.-backed plan proposing a phased release of hostages in return for an extended ceasefire.

    The Witkoff plan, unveiled in March, envisions the release of roughly half of the surviving hostages in exchange for a 50-day truce and subsequent talks. It does not include Hamas’s demands for a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza or the release of Palestinian prisoners.

    Israel said it was preparing for the possibility of additional releases but reaffirmed that negotiations would take place “under fire,” consistent with its wartime policy and ongoing military objectives in Gaza.

    Hamas confirmed on Sunday it had agreed to free Alexander after discussions with U.S. officials, describing the move as part of broader efforts toward a ceasefire, reopening border crossings, and increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza.

    The Hostages and Missing Families Forum welcomed Alexander’s expected release but urged the government to reach a single deal to secure the return of all remaining captives.

    “There is only one moral and necessary agreement: the immediate return of all hostages and the end of the war,” the group said, warning that “no one can be left behind.”

    Israel estimates 59 hostages remain in Gaza, at least 21 of whom are believed to be alive. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, more than 52,800 people have been killed in Israel’s military campaign since October 2023.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Indian economy has potential to surpass China in near future: Jim Rogers

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    ndia is poised to become one of the most exciting investment destinations in the world and may even outperform China in the coming years, according to ace investor Jim Rogers.

    In an interaction with IANS, Rogers said, “I have been around the investment world for decades, and for the first time in my life, I see that the people in Delhi understand economics.”

    “India is rising again. I think the people in Delhi understand what needs to be done and are trying to do it. That would be wonderful for India and for the world. If India can actually open up and engage in trade with the whole world, you cannot believe how exciting the country’s future could be,” said the American investor and financial commentator.

    “I don’t have investments in India right now, but I really, really want to invest more in the fastest-growing economy,” he added. Rogers also noted that if the market declines and stays down for a while, “I want to put more money in India.”

    India is projected to become the world’s fourth-largest economy in 2025, with the country’s nominal GDP expected to rise to $4,187.017 billion—surpassing Japan’s GDP, which is pegged at $4,186.431 billion—according to the IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook report.

    Commenting on Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), Rogers told IANS that increased free trade is beneficial for the world, and particularly for India.

    “It will be extremely exciting for the world, including foreign investors,” he said.

    India has signed 13 FTAs with its trading partners and is currently negotiating several more, including: the India-EU FTA, the India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), the India-Peru Trade Agreement covering goods, services, and investment, the India-Sri Lanka Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement (ETCA), and the India-Oman FTA.

    India and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark FTA that is significant not only in terms of scope—covering reductions across 90 per cent of tariff lines—but also in its symbolic value, marking a shift in post-globalisation economic strategy.

    According to an SBI report, the agreement signals a new global trade strategy for India, which includes reducing dependence on China, navigating U.S. tariffs, and recalibrating post-Brexit relations with Britain.

    Moreover, India has also initiated a review of its existing FTAs, including the India-South Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA).

    IANS

  • Jaishankar speaks to Egyptian FM, reaffirms ‘zero tolerance’ for terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (2)

    xternal Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar received a call from Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty on Sunday, during which the two leaders discussed recent developments amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.

    Jaishankar underlined the importance of “zero tolerance for terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.” The conversation also covered opportunities for economic cooperation between India and Egypt.

    “Received a call from FM Badr Abdelatty of Egypt. Apprised him of recent developments and emphasized the importance of zero tolerance for terrorism in all forms and manifestations. Discussed economic cooperation prospects between India and Egypt. Look forward to welcoming him in India,” Jaishankar said in a post on X.

    Meanwhile, hours after Pakistan violated the ceasefire agreement between the two nations, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the breach was a serious setback to the understanding reached, and India takes “very serious note of these violations.”

    Misri added that India’s Armed Forces have been instructed to respond firmly to any future violations, whether along the International Border or the Line of Control (LoC).

    Following the violation, Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s unwavering stance on terrorism. “India and Pakistan have today worked out an understanding on the stoppage of firing and military action. India has consistently maintained a firm and uncompromising stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. It will continue to do so,” he said in a post on X.

    ANI

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Fighting more frequent now’ – researcher warns of escalating West Papua conflict

    By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist

    The escalation of violence in West Papua is on par with some of the most intense times of conflict over the past six decades, a human rights researcher says.

    The United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) claims that Indonesia killed at least one civilian and severely injured another last Tuesday in Puncak Regency.

    In a statement, ULMWP interim president Benny Wenda said Deris Kogoya, 18, was killed by a rocket attack from a helicopter while riding his motorbike near Kelanungin Village.

    Jemi Waker, meanwhile, sustained severe violent injuries, including to both his legs.

    The statement said Waker had refused to go to hospital, fearing he would be killed if he went.

    Human Rights Watch researcher Andreas Harsono said that over the past month he had received an unusually high number of messages accompanied by gruesome photos showing either Indonesian soldiers or civilians being killed.

    “The fighting is much more frequent now,” Harsono said.

    More Indonesian soldiers
    “There are more and more Indonesian soldiers sent to West Papua under President Pradowo.

    “At the same time, indigenous Papuans are also gaining more and more men, unfortunately also boys, to join the fight in the jungle.”

    He said the escalation could match similarly intense periods of conflict in 1977, 1984, and 2004.

    A spokesperson for Indonesia’s Embassy in Wellington said they could not confirm if there had been a military attack in Puncak Regency on Tuesday.

    However, they said all actions conducted by Indonesia’s military were in line with international law.

    They said there were attacks in March and April of this year, instigated by an “armed criminal group” targeting Indonesian workers and civilians.

    Harsono said if the attack was on civilians, it would be a clear breach of human rights.

    Confirmation difficult
    However, he said it was difficult to confirm due to the remoteness of the area. He said it was common for civilians to wear army camouflage because of surplus Indonesian uniforms.

    ULMWP’s Benny Wenda said West Papuans were “a forgotten, voiceless people”.

    “Where is the attention of the media and the international community? How many children must be killed before they notice we are dying?”

    Wenda compared the lack of attention with the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Palestine conflict that was getting more media attention.

    He said Indonesia had banned media “to prevent journalists from telling the world what is really going on”.

    The Indonesian Embassy spokesperson said foreign journalists were not allowed in the area for their own safety.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: India-Pakistan ceasefire shouldn’t disguise fact that norms have changed in South Asia, making future de-escalation much harder

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Farah N. Jan, Senior Lecturer in International Relations, University of Pennsylvania

    A member of the Indian Border Security Force stands guard near the India-Pakistan border. Narinder Nanu/AFP via Getty Images

    India and Pakistan have seen the scenario play out before: a terror attack in which Indians are killed leads to a succession of escalatory tit-fot-tat measures that put South Asia on the brink of all-out war. And then there is a de-escalation.

    The broad contours of that pattern have played out in the most recent crisis, with the latest step being the announcement of a ceasefire on May 10, 2025.

    But in another important way, the flare-up – which began on April 22 with a deadly attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir, in which 26 people were killed – represents significant departures from the past. It involved direct missile exchanges targeting sites inside both territories and the use of advanced missile systems and drones by the two nuclear rivals for the first time.

    As a scholar of nuclear rivalries, especially between India and Pakistan, I have long been concerned that the erosion of international sovereignty norms, diminished U.S. interest and influence in the region and the stockpiling of advanced military and digital technologies have significantly raised the risk of rapid and uncontrolled escalation in the event of a trigger in South Asia.

    These changes have coincided with domestic political shifts in both countries. The pro-Hindu nationalism of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has heightened communal tensions in the country. Meanwhile Pakistan’s powerful army chief, Gen. Syed Asim Munir, has embraced the “two-nation theory,” which holds that Pakistan is a homeland for the subcontinent’s Muslims and India for Hindus.

    Newspapers with front page articles on the India-Pakistan conflict are displayed on May 8, 2025.
    Narinder Nanu/AFP via Getty Images

    This religious framing was even seen in the naming of the two countries’ military operations. For India, it is “Operation Sindoor” – a reference to the red vermilion used by married Hindu women, and a provocative nod to the widows of the Kashmir attack. Pakistan called its counter-operation “Bunyan-un-Marsoos” – an Arabic phrase from the Quran meaning “a solid structure.”

    The role of Washington

    The India-Pakistan rivalry has cost tens of thousands of lives across multiple wars in 1947-48, 1965 and 1971. But since the late 1990s, whenever India and Pakistan approached the brink of war, a familiar de-escalation playbook unfolded: intense diplomacy, often led by the United States, would help defuse tensions.

    In 1999, President Bill Clinton’s direct mediation ended the Kargil conflict – a limited war triggered by Pakistani forces crossing the Line of Control into Indian-administered Kashmir – by pressing Pakistan for a withdrawal.

    Similarly, after the 2001 attack inside the Indian Parliament by terrorists allegedly linked to Pakistan-based groups Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage engaged in intense shuttle diplomacy between Islamabad and New Delhi, averting war.

    And after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, which saw 166 people killed by terrorists linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, rapid and high-level American diplomatic involvement helped restrain India’s response and reduced the risk of an escalating conflict.

    As recently as 2019, during the Balakot crisis – which followed a suicide bombing in Pulwama, Kashmir, that killed 40 Indian security personnel – it was American diplomatic pressure that helped contain hostilities. Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo later wrote in his memoirs, “I do not think the world properly knows just how close the India-Pakistan rivalry came to spilling over into a nuclear conflagration in February 2019.”

    A diplomatic void?

    Washington as peacemaker made sense: It had influence and a vested interest.

    During the Cold War, the U.S. formed a close alliance with Pakistan to counter India’s links with the Soviet Union. And after the 9/11 terror attacks, the U.S. poured tens of billions of dollars in military assistance into Pakistan as a frontline partner in the “war on terror.”

    Simultaneously, beginning in the early 2000s, the U.S. began cultivating India as a strategic partner.

    A stable Pakistan was a crucial partner in the U.S. war in Afghanistan; a friendly India was a strategic counterbalance to China. And this gave the U.S. both the motivation and credibility to act as an effective mediator during moments of India-Pakistan crisis.

    Today, however, America’s diplomatic attention has shifted significantly away from South Asia. The process began with the end of the Cold War, but accelerated dramatically after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. More recently, the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East have consumed Washington’s diplomatic efforts.

    Since President Donald Trump took office in January 2025, the U.S. has not appointed an ambassador in New Delhi or Islamabad, nor confirmed an assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asian Affairs – factors that must have hampered any mediating role for the United States.

    And while Trump said the May 10 ceasefire followed a “long night of talks mediated by the United States,” statements from India and Pakistan appeared to downplay U.S. involvement, focusing instead on the direct bilateral nature of negotiations.

    Should it transpire that Washington’s role as a mediator between Pakistan and India has been diminished, it is not immediately obvious who, if anyone, will fill the void. China, which has been trying to cultivate a role of mediator elsewhere, is not seen as a neutral mediator due to its close alliance with Pakistan and past border conflicts with India. Other regional powers like Iran and Saudi Arabia tried to step in during the latest crisis, but both lack the power clout of the U.S. or China.

    This absence of external mediation is not, of course, a problem in itself. Historically, foreign interference – particularly U.S. support for Pakistan during the Cold War – often complicated dynamics in South Asia by creating military imbalances and reinforcing hardline positions. But the past has shown external pressure – especially from Washington – can be effective.

    Breaking the norms

    The recent escalation unfolded against the backdrop of another dynamic: the erosion of international norms since the end of the Cold War and accelerating after 2001.

    America’s “war on terror” fundamentally challenged international legal frameworks through practices such as preemptive strikes against sovereign states, targeted drone killings and the “enhanced interrogation techniques” of detainees that many legal scholars classify as torture.

    More recently, Israel’s operations in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria have drawn widespread criticism for violations of international humanitarian law – but have resulted in limited consequences.

    Security forces patrol the street near the Wuyan area of Pampore in south Kashmir on May 7, 2025.
    Faisal Khan/Anadolu via Getty Images

    In short, geopolitical norms have been ebbed away and military actions that were once deemed red lines are crossed with little accountability.

    For India and Pakistan, this environment creates both opportunity and risk. Both can point to behaviors elsewhere to justify assertive actions that they have undertaken that, in previous years, would have been deemed a step too far – such as attacks on places of worship and sovereignty violations.

    Multi-domain warfare

    But what truly distinguished the latest crisis from those of the past is, I believe, its multi-domain nature. The conflict is no longer confined to conventional military exchanges along the line of control – as it was for the first five decades of the Kashmir question.

    Both countries largely respected the line of control as a de facto boundary for military operations until the 2019 crisis. Since then, there has been a dangerous progression: first to cross-border airstrikes into each other’s territories, and now to a conflict that spans conventional military, cyber and information spheres simultaneously.

    Reports indicate Chinese-made Pakistani J-10 fighter jets shot down multiple Indian aircraft, including advanced French Rafale jets. This confrontation between Chinese and Western weapons represents not just a bilateral conflict but a proxy test of rival global military technologies – adding another layer of great-power competition to the crisis.

    In addition, the use of loitering drones designed to attack radar systems represents a significant escalation in the technological sophistication of cross-border attacks compared to years past.

    The conflict has also expanded dramatically into the cyber domain. Pakistani hackers, claiming to be the “Pakistan Cyber Force,” report breaching several Indian defense institutions, potentially compromising personnel data and login credentials.

    Simultaneously, social media and a new right-wing media in India have become a critical battlefront. Ultranationalist voices in India incited violence against Muslims and Kashmiris; in Pakistan, anti-India rhetoric similarly intensified online.

    Cooler voices prevailing … for now

    These shifts have created multiple escalation pathways that traditional crisis management approaches weren’t designed to address.

    Particularly concerning is the nuclear dimension. Pakistan’s nuclear doctrine is that it will use nuclear weapons if its existence is threatened, and it has developed short-range tactical nuclear weapons intended to counter Indian conventional advantages. Meanwhile, India has informally dialed back its historic no-first-use stance, creating ambiguity about its operational doctrine.

    Thankfully, as the ceasefire announcement indicates, mediating voices appear to have prevailed this time around. But eroding norms, diminished great power diplomacy and the advent of multi-domain warfare, I argue, made this latest flare-up a dangerous turning point.

    What happens next will tell us much about how nuclear rivals manage, or fail to manage, the spiral of conflict in this dangerous new landscape.

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

    – ref. India-Pakistan ceasefire shouldn’t disguise fact that norms have changed in South Asia, making future de-escalation much harder – https://theconversation.com/india-pakistan-ceasefire-shouldnt-disguise-fact-that-norms-have-changed-in-south-asia-making-future-de-escalation-much-harder-256285

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Media and Advocacy – BSA decision a warning to broadcasters to avoid Israeli propaganda narratives – PSA

    Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

     

    A decision by the Broadcasting Standards Authority to uphold a complaint against a 1News broadcast in November is a warning to the news media, says the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa.

     

    The Broadcasting Standards Authority has ruled that a TVNZ news item on violence in Amsterdam breached BSA rules.

     

    1News described violence in the streets of Amsterdam following a soccer match as ‘disturbing’ and ‘antisemitic’ and stated the graphic video of beatings were Maccabi Tel Aviv fans under attack just for being Jewish.

     

    Videographers who took the footage which 1News had used, complained to their news agencies that this description was quite wrong. The violence was perpetrated by the Israeli Maccabi Tel Aviv fans against those they suspected of being Arab or supporters of Palestine.  The visiting Israelis were the attackers – not the victims.

     

    (Before the match these same Maccabi fans had gathered in large groups to chant “Death to Arabs” – a racist genocidal chant which if used with the races reversed (“Arabs” replaced by Jews”) would have been rightly condemned in purple prose by western news media such as TVNZ. But no such sympathy for Palestinians or Arabs)

     

    PSNA immediately requested that TVNZ broadcast a correction.  TVNZ refused, though admitting they had got the story wrong.

     

    PSNA then referred a complaint to the BSA who upheld the complaint as failing to meet the accuracy standard.

     

    PSNA Co-Chair John Minto says the BSA decision should be seen as a warning to the news media to be aware that Israel is using fabricated charges of antisemitism, to justify and divert attention from its genocide in Gaza and silence its critics.

     

    “Just because Benjamin Netanyahu and the then US president Joe Biden made statements turning Amsterdam attackers into victims, doesn’t mean TVNZ news should automatically parrot them,” Minto says. “That’s effectively what the BSA concluded.”

     

    Minto also points to what he called a recent fabricated hysteria about antisemitism in Sydney, which the New South Wales police found to be completely based on hoaxes by a criminal gang.

     

    “In the US, Trump is using the same charge as an excuse to close down university courses and expel anyone who protests against the Israeli genocide in Gaza.”

     

    “The Human Rights Commission here has also been guilty of publishing misinformation through the news media, which it refuses to publicly correct, probably because of its own fondness for Israel.”

     

    “Of course, we strongly condemn the real antisemitism of anti-Jewish, Nazi-type Islamophobic groups,” Minto says.  

     

    “It should be easy for professional reporters and editors to tell the difference between criticism of Israeli apartheid, ethnic cleansing and violence on one hand, and on the other hand Nazis and their fellow travellers who condemn Jews because they are Jews”

     

    “The BSA is, in effect, demanding the news media educate themselves.”

     

    John Minto

    Co-Chair

    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lawler, Wasserman Schultz, Hill, Gottheimer, and Suozzi Urge Trump to Bring Home American Hostages Held in Gaza

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 5/10/25… Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), joined by Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), French Hill (AR-02), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), and Tom Suozzi (NY-03) led 45 of their House colleagues in a bipartisan letter to President Trump urging his administration to continue prioritizing the immediate release of the five American citizens who remain in captivity in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks on Israel.

    The coordinated terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas and other Palestinian terrorist groups that killed over 1,200 people, including more than 40 Americans. On that day, they took into Gaza over 250 hostages, twelve of whom were American. Five U.S. citizens Edan Alexander, Omer Neutra, Itay Chen, Gadi Haggai, and Judi Weinstein Haggai remain in captivity, with Edan as the only hostage who is believed to be alive. 

    “Securing the release of all five American hostages is critical as every additional moment in captivity is a matter of life or death,” wrote the lawmakers. “We urge you to avail yourself of all available options and diplomatic channels to achieve a deal for their release.”

    “Our government’s most solemn responsibility is to keep Americans safe. With that responsibility in mind, we urge you to use all diplomatic tools at your disposal, in concert with our regional allies and partners, to ensure Edan’s release and the release of the remains of the deceased American hostages as soon as possible. Every day in captivity adds to the nightmare for the hostages and their families. We must bring them home now,” concluded the lawmakers. 

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    The full letter can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: Hamas to Free Hostage with Israeli and American Citizenship

    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

    Xinhua | 12.05. 2025

    Keywords: american citizenship,hamas,will release,israeli,hostage,urgent,opening of border crossings,achieving a ceasefire,gaza strip,as part of efforts,sunday,alexandra

    GAZA, May 11 (Xinhua) — Palestinian Hamas movement said Sunday it will release Israeli-American hostage Idan Alexander from the Gaza Strip as part of efforts to achieve a ceasefire and open border crossings. –0–

    Source: Xinhua

    Breaking News: Hamas to Free Hostage with Israeli and American Citizenship Breaking News: Hamas to Free Hostage with Israeli and American Citizenship

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: V. Zelensky proposed to V. Putin to meet in person on May 15 in Turkey

    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

    KYIV, May 11 (Xinhua) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday proposed on social network X to Russian President Vladimir Putin to hold a personal meeting in Turkey on May 15 to resolve the Russian-Ukrainian armed conflict.

    He expressed hope that official Moscow would accept his proposal.

    V. Zelensky added that Ukraine also expects a complete and long-term ceasefire starting on May 12.

    On Sunday night, V. Putin proposed that Ukraine resume direct peace talks between the two countries on May 15 in Istanbul. V. Zelensky called the Russian leader’s initiative “a good sign,” but noted that Kyiv is ready for dialogue provided that Russia agrees to the 30-day ceasefire proposed by Ukraine on Saturday, starting May 12. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran and Uzbekistan Sign Four Documents on Expanding Bilateral Cooperation

    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

    TEHRAN, May 11 (Xinhua) — Iran and Uzbekistan signed four documents in Tehran on Sunday to expand bilateral cooperation, Iran’s official IRNA news agency reported.

    According to the report, the signing took place during a meeting of delegations from the two countries, which included high-ranking officials, including Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref and Uzbek Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov, who is visiting the Islamic Republic.

    According to IRNA, these four documents include an intergovernmental protocol on the implementation of a preferential trade agreement, a memorandum of understanding on quarantine and plant protection, a memorandum of understanding in the field of halal standardization, and an intergovernmental roadmap for bilateral cooperation for the period 2025-2027.

    During the meeting, M.R. Aref said that Iran is determined to improve relations with Uzbekistan in all areas, viewing “the numerous cultural and historical commonalities between the two countries as valuable assets” for developing bilateral ties in the economy, energy, tourism, culture, science and trade, as well as between representatives of the private sector.

    A. Aripov, for his part, pointed out that Iran is a “close friend and reliable partner” of Uzbekistan in the region. He noted that in 2024, the volume of bilateral trade reached 500 million US dollars.

    The Prime Minister of Uzbekistan stressed that the expansion of cooperation between the two countries should be future-oriented and based on long-term planning. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Pope Leo XIV’s recent predecessors at the Vatican defended migrants. Will he do the same?

    Source: The Conversation – France – By Speranta Dumitru, Maitre de Conférences, Université Paris Cité

    Political language is sometimes used to describe the orientations of the Vatican. When the late Pope Francis defended migrants, it was suggested that he was a “left-wing” pope. Today, people are wondering whether Pope Leo XIV will adopt a “progressive” path or, on the contrary, a philosophy on immigration different from that of Francis.

    To answer this question, it is helpful to look at what successive popes have said about welcoming foreigners. We can see that they have defended not only migrants but also a right of immigration. Their approach has been universalist and it rejected all discrimination. Could it change?

    Supporting the right of immigration

    During the period between the second world war and the election of Leo XIV, the Vatican had six popes. The first, Pius XII (1939-1958), seems to have been more in favour of immigration than the United Nations. In 1948, when the UN adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, emigration was enshrined as a fundamental right: “Everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own.”

    This wording does not mention the right to enter a country that is not one’s own, and Pius XII called this vagueness into question. In his 1952 Christmas message, he argued that it resulted in a situation in which “the natural right of every person not to be prevented from emigrating or immigrating is practically annulled, under the pretext of a falsely understood common good”.

    Pius XII believed that immigration was a natural right, but linked it to poverty. He therefore asked governments to facilitate the migration of workers and their families to “regions where they could more easily find the food they needed”. He deplored the “mechanisation of minds” and called for a softening “in politics and economics, of the rigidity of the old framework of geographical boundaries”.

    In the Apostolic Constitution on the Exiled Family, also in 1952, he wrote about why migration was essential for the Church.

    Pope John XXIII (1958-1963) extended this argument in two encyclicals: Mater et magistra in 1961 and Pacem in terris in 1963. Whereas Pius XII had thought that the natural right to emigrate only applied to people in need, John XXIII included everyone: “among man’s personal rights we must include his right to enter a country in which he hopes to be able to provide more fittingly for himself and his dependents” (Pacem in terris 106).

    A refusal of discrimination

    For Paul VI (1963-1978), the Christian duty to serve migrant workers must be fulfilled without discrimination. In a 1965 encyclical, he maintained that “a special obligation binds us to make ourselves the neighbour of every person without exception and of actively helping him when he comes across our path, whether he be an old person abandoned by all, a foreign labourer unjustly looked down upon, a refugee… ” He also stated the requirement “to assist migrants and their families” (Gaudium et spes).

    John Paul II (1978-2005) made numerous statements in favour of immigration. For example, his speech for World Migration Day in 1995 was devoted to undocumented migrants. He wrote: “The Church considers the problem of illegal migrants from the standpoint of Christ, who died to gather together the dispersed children of God (cf Jn 11:52), to rehabilitate the marginalized and to bring close those who are distant, in order to integrate all within a communion that is not based on ethnic, cultural or social membership.”

    Benedict XVI (2005-2013) acknowledged the “feminization of migration” and the fact that”female emigration tends to become more and more autonomous. Women cross the border of their homeland alone in search of work in another country.“ (Message, 2006)

    Welcoming the entry into force of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, he recalled: “The Church encourages the ratification of the international legal instruments that aim to defend the rights of migrants, refugees and their families” (Message 2007).

    Pope Francis (2013-2025) embraced this globally inclusive tradition. His encyclical on “Fraternity and Social Friendship” calls for “recognizing that all people are our brothers and sisters, and seeking forms of social friendship that include everyone” (Fratelli tutti, 2020).

    He insisted that “for a healthy relationship between love of one’s native land and a sound sense of belonging to our larger human family, it is helpful to keep in mind that global society is not the sum total of different countries, but rather the communion that exists among them” (Fratelli tutti, 2020).

    On the question of migration, Francis maintained that “our response to the arrival of migrating persons can be summarized by four words: welcome, protect, promote and integrate” (Fratelli tutti, 2020).

    Not a political preference

    It appears that the pontificate of Leo XIV will reflect a similar commitment. However, this cannot be explained by political preference, or by personal and family history (the US-born pope is the grandson of immigrants and became a naturalized citizen of Peru). Popes do not defend immigrants because they are left-wing or progressive, but because they are at the head of an institution whose raison d’être is “to act in continuity with the mission of Christ”.

    For Christians, welcoming foreigners is meant to be a fundamental duty, a condition of salvation. In the gospel, Matthew has Jesus say that this is one of the criteria for the Last Judgement. Those who welcome the stranger will receive the kingdom of God “as an inheritance”. Others will receive eternal punishment: “For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty, and you gave me no drink, I was a stranger, and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me” (Matthew, 25:42-43).

    The stranger is at the heart of the New Testament revolution. Of course, the imperatives of hospitality are found in both the Old and New Testaments. It is a hospitality that is demanding (“You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” [Leviticus 19:34]) and unconditional (“Show hospitality without complaining” [Peter 4:9]).

    But the New Testament revolution endows Christianity with a universal aspiration: human beings, by virtue of their origin, all become brothers. Belonging to Christianity itself is reflected by faith in this universality: “We know that we love the children of God when we love God” [John 5:2]. With this message, Christianity blurs the distinction between strangers and relatives: “You are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household” [Ephesians 2:19].

    According to the Letter to Diognetus, this is what makes Christians unique: “They reside each in his own country, but as dwelling strangers. Every foreign land is a homeland to them, and every homeland is a foreign land to them.”

    In his very first homily, Leo XIV suggested that the Christian faith might seem “absurd, reserved for the weak or the less intelligent”. But the institution of which he declared himself a “faithful administrator” has been preaching “universal mercy” for over 2,000 years.

    Les auteurs ne travaillent pas, ne conseillent pas, ne possèdent pas de parts, ne reçoivent pas de fonds d’une organisation qui pourrait tirer profit de cet article, et n’ont déclaré aucune autre affiliation que leur organisme de recherche.

    – ref. Pope Leo XIV’s recent predecessors at the Vatican defended migrants. Will he do the same? – https://theconversation.com/pope-leo-xivs-recent-predecessors-at-the-vatican-defended-migrants-will-he-do-the-same-256377

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE begins Qatar visit

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee met Qatar’s leaders and government officials and learnt about the latest developments of the country’s sovereign wealth fund on the first day of a visit to Qatar.

    Leading a business delegation comprising representatives from Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises, Mr Lee in the morning, met respectively the Amir, head of state of Qatar Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar Prime Minister & Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Minister of Communications & Information Technology Mohammed bin Ali bin Mohammed Al Mannai to exchange views on strengthening bilateral relations and economic co-operation between Hong Kong and Qatar.

    The Chief Executive said that Qatar and Hong Kong are economic powerhouses in the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific region respectively. Noting that Qatar is Hong Kong’s third-largest trading partner in the Middle East with bilateral trade in goods worth US$1.6 billion last year, Mr Lee said that there is plenty of room for further growth in trade and business between the two places.

    He also expressed his anticipation that during this visit, multiple memoranda of understanding and agreements will be made between Hong Kong and Qatar, covering various areas including trade and investment promotion, financial services, innovation and technology (I&T), and cultural tourism, with a view to further enhancing co-operation among the governments and institutions of the two places.

    Mr Lee noted that Hong Kong, as a functional platform of the Belt & Road Initiative, is committed to deepening international exchanges and co-operation and leveraging its strengths as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” to facilitate and add value to government and business projects along the Belt & Road through the city’s world-class professional services.

    He also said that the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Belt & Road Initiative align in their values and aspirations for achieving high-quality development through all-round co-operation, embracing economic diversification and innovation, as well as fostering friendship and facilitating exchanges.

    The Chief Executive supplemented that both Hong Kong and Qatar attach great importance to technological development and regard artificial intelligence as an engine of new economic development, and that he hoped Hong Kong and Qatar would enhance collaboration through joint research and exchanges, joint ventures, and cross-border investments to achieve mutual benefits.

    In addition, Mr Lee visited the Qatar Investment Authority to learn about the development of Qatar’s financial sector. Established in 2005, the authority is Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund. It manages and grows Qatar’s financial assets, with an aim to diversify Qatar’s economic development and ensure the country’s long-term financial sustainability. Mr Lee received an in-depth briefing on the operation and investment strategies of the sovereign wealth fund, and explored with the authority the development and co-operation opportunities for both sides in finance and the economy.

    In the afternoon, he attended a luncheon hosted by an international financial group, where he gained insights into the group’s analysis of Qatar’s banking and financial services industry, as well as its capital markets.

    Pointing out that Hong Kong is an international financial centre now moving towards also becoming an international green finance hub, Mr Lee said that last year the total amount of green and sustainable debt issued in Hong Kong exceeded US$84 billion, with green and sustainable bonds accounting for approximately US$43 billion. It captured around 45% of the total Asian market, ranking first in the region for seven consecutive years. He highlighted that under the principle of “one country, two systems”, Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises complement each other’s strengths, and that Hong Kong would give full play to its bridging role in attracting international investments to China and “going global” with Mainland enterprises. He welcomed Qatari enterprises to leverage Hong Kong’s broad and deep capital markets, professional financial services and seamless connectivity with the Mainland market to raise international funds for their sustainable infrastructure projects.

    Afterwards, Mr Lee led the delegation to visit Lusail City, the second-largest city in Qatar, to understand how the city integrates I&T with urban planning and infrastructure development. Lusail City is one of Qatar’s flagship smart cities, focusing on information and communication technology, with the aim of developing into a model for intelligent living, urban evolution and diverse cultural landscapes. He noted that Hong Kong, as the world’s third-largest financial centre, offers world-class professional services that can support Qatar’s investment needs, adding that Hong Kong and Qatar can explore co-operation and exchanges in areas such as sustainable urban development.

    Next on the itinerary is a visit to the National Museum of Qatar to learn about the country’s history and cultural heritage as well as a dinner hosted by the Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the State of Qatar Cao Xiaolin.

    The Chief Executive and his delegation will continue their visit to Qatar tomorrow by meeting local political and business leaders before departing for Kuwait.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: R.T. Erdogan expressed Turkey’s readiness to host peace talks between Russia and Ukraine

    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

    ANKARA, May 11 (Xinhua) — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday expressed the Turkish side’s readiness to host direct peace talks between Russia and Ukraine after the Russian side proposed holding them in Istanbul.

    According to a statement from R. T. Erdogan’s office, the corresponding statement was made during his separate telephone conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron.

    During the conversation with V. Putin, the head of Turkey touched upon issues of Turkish-Russian relations, as well as broader regional and global issues. He welcomed the Russian leader’s recent proposal to resume peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15 and stated that “Türkiye is ready to accept talks aimed at achieving a long-term solution,” the chancellery specified.

    R. T. Erdogan stressed that a window of opportunity has opened for achieving peace and noted that the establishment of a comprehensive ceasefire will create the necessary conditions for productive negotiations.

    In a conversation with E. Macron, the Turkish president emphasized the importance of continuing cooperation on the issue of launching negotiations on permanent peace and supporting the process of restoring Ukraine.

    Noting that a historic turning point has arrived on the path to ending the war between Ukraine and Russia and that this opportunity must be seized, R. T. Erdogan told E. Macron that Turkey is ready to make any contribution, including organizing negotiations, to achieve a ceasefire and lasting peace.

    Speaking to reporters in the Kremlin earlier on Sunday, Putin proposed resuming direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15. The Russian leader stressed that Russia is committed to serious talks with Ukraine that are designed to address the root causes of the ongoing conflict and to establish a long-term, lasting peace in the historical perspective.

    In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called it a good sign that Russia had begun to think about ending the war, but, according to him, the very first step towards this should be the beginning of a full, long-term and reliable ceasefire from May 12.

    In 2022, Russian and Ukrainian negotiators held direct talks in Istanbul but failed to reach an agreement to halt hostilities. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Cutting off communications’ – did Trump really just turn his back on Israel?

    ANALYSIS: By Robert Inlakesh

    Israel is in a weak position and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s extremism knows no bounds. The only other way around an eventual regional war is the ousting of the Israeli prime minister.

    US President Donald Trump has closed his line of communication with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to various reports citing officials.

    This comes amid alleged growing pressure on Israel regarding Gaza and the abrupt halt to American operations against Ansarallah in Yemen. So, is this all an act or is the US finally pressuring Israel?

    On May 1, news broke that President Donald Trump had suddenly ousted his national security advisor Mike Waltz. According to a Washington Post article on the issue, the ouster was in part a response to Waltz’s undermining of the President, for having engaged in intense coordination with Israeli PM Netanyahu regarding the issue of attacking Iran prior to the Israeli Premier’s visit to the Oval Office.

    Some analysts, considering that Waltz has been pushing for a war on Iran, argued that his ouster was a signal that the Trump administration’s pro-diplomacy voices were pushing back against the hawks.

    This shift also came at a time when Iran-US talks had stalled, largely thanks to a pressure campaign from the Israel Lobby, leading US think tanks and Israeli officials like Ron Dermer.

    Then, seemingly out of nowhere, Trump publicly announced the end to a campaign designed to destroy/degrade Yemen’s Ansarallah-led government in Sana’a on May 6.

    Israeli leadership shocked
    According to Israeli media, citing government sources, the leadership in Tel Aviv was shocked by the move to end operations against Yemen, essentially leaving the Israelis to deal with Ansarallah alone.

    After this, more information began to leak, originating from the Israeli Hebrew-language media, claiming that the Trump administration was demanding Israel reach an agreement for aid to be delivered to Gaza, in addition to signing a ceasefire agreement.

    The other major claim is that President Trump has grown so frustrated with Netanyahu that he has cut communication with him directly.

    Although neither side has officially clarified details on the reported rift between the two sides, a few days ago the Israeli prime minister released a social media video claiming that he would act alone to defend Israel.

    On Friday morning, another update came in that American Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth would be cancelling his planned visit to Tel Aviv.


    Can Trump and Netanyahu remake the Middle East?       Video: Palestine Chronicle

    Is the US finally standing up to Israel?
     In order to assess this issue correctly, we have to place all of the above-mentioned developments into their proper context.

    The issue must also be prefaced on the fact that every member of the Trump government is pro-Israeli to the hilt and has received significant backing from the Israel Lobby.

    Mike Waltz was indeed fired and according to leaked AIPAC audio revealed by The Grayzone, he was somewhat groomed for a role in government by the pro-Israel Lobby for a long time.

    Another revelation regarding Waltz, aside from him allegedly coordinating with Netanyahu behind Trump’s back and adding journalist Jeffrey Goldberg to a private Signal group chat, was that he was storing his chats on an Israeli-owned app.

    Yet, Waltz was not booted out of the government like John Bolton was during Trump’s first term in office, he has instead been designated as UN ambassador to the United Nations.

    The UN ambassador position was supposed to be handed to Elise Stefanik, a radically vocal supporter of Israel who helped lead the charge in cracking down on pro-Palestine free speech on university campuses. Stefanik’s nomination was withdrawn in order to maintain the Republican majority in the Congress.

    If Trump was truly seeking to push back against the Israel Lobby’s push to collapse negotiations with Iran, then why did Trump signal around a week ago that new sanctions packages were on the way?

    He announced on Friday that a third independent Chinese refiner would be hit with secondary sanctions for receiving Iranian oil.

    Israeli demands in Trump’s rhetoric
    The sanctions, on top of the fact that his negotiating team have continuously attempted to add conditions the the talks, viewed in Tehran as non-starters, indicates that precisely what pro-Israel think tanks like WINEP and FDD have been demanding is working its way into not only the negotiating team, but coming out in Trump’s own rhetoric.

    There is certainly an argument to make here, that there is a significant split within the pro-Israel Lobby in the US, which is now working its way into the Trump administration, yet it is important to note that the Trump campaign itself was bankrolled by Zionist billionaires and tech moguls.

    Miriam Adelson, Israel’s richest billionaire, was his largest donor. Adelson also happens to own Israel Hayom, the most widely distributed newspaper in Israel that has historically been pro-Netanyahu, it is now also reporting on the Trump-Netanyahu split and feeding into the speculations.

    As for the US operations against Yemen, the US has used the attack on Ansarallah as the perfect excuse to move a large number of military assets to the region.

    This has included air defence systems to the Gulf States and most importantly to Israel.

    After claiming back in March to have already “decimated” Ansarallah, the Trump administration spent way in excess of US$1 billion dollars (more accurately over US$2 billion) and understood that the only way forward was a ground operation.

    Meanwhile, the US has also moved military assets to the Mediterranean and is directly involved in intensive reconnaissance over Lebanese airspace, attempting to collect information on Hezbollah.

    An Iran attack imminent?
     While it is almost impossible to know whether the media theatrics regarding the reported Trump-Netanyahu split are entirely true, or if it is simply a good-cop bad-cop strategy, it appears that some kind of assault on Iran could be imminent.

    Whether Benjamin Netanyahu is going to order an attack on Iran out of desperation or as part of a carefully choreographed plan, the US will certainly involve itself in any such assault on one level or another.

    The Israeli prime minister has painted himself into a corner. In order to save his political coalition, he collapsed the Gaza ceasefire during March and managed to bring back his Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir to his coalition.

    This enabled him to successfully take on his own Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, in an ongoing purge of his opposition.

    However, due to a lack of manpower and inability to launch any major ground operation against Gaza, without severely undermining Israeli security on other fronts, Netanyahu decided to adopt a strategy of starving the people of Gaza instead.

    He now threatens a major ground offensive, yet it is hard to see what impact it would have beyond an accelerated mass murder of civilians.

    The Israeli prime minister’s mistake was choosing the blocking of all aid into Gaza as the rightwing hill to die on, which has been deeply internalised by his extreme Religious Zionism coalition partners, who now threaten his government’s stability if any aid enters the besieged territory.

    Netanyahu in a difficult position
    This has put Netanyahu in a very difficult position, as the European Union, UK and US are all fearing the backlash that mass famine will bring and are now pushing Tel Aviv to allow in some aid.

    Amidst this, Netanyahu made another commitment to the Druze community that he would intervene on their behalf in Syria.

    While Syria’s leadership are signaling their intent to normalise ties and according to a recent report by Yedioth Ahronoth, participated in “direct” negotiations with Israel regarding “security issues”, there is no current threat from Damascus.

    However, if tensions escalate in Syria with the Druze minority in the south, failure to fulfill pledges could cause major issues with Israeli Druze, who perform crucial roles in the Israeli military.

    Internally, Israel is deeply divided, economically under great pressure and the overall instability could quickly translate to a larger range of issues.

    Then we have the Lebanon front, where Hezbollah sits poised to pounce on an opportunity to land a blow in order to expel Israel from their country and avenge the killing of its Secretary General Seyyed Hassan Nasrallah.

    Trigger a ‘doomsday option’?
    Meanwhile in Gaza, if Israel is going to try and starve everyone to death, this could easily trigger what can only be called the “doomsday option” from Hamas and other groups there. Nobody is about to sit around and watch their people starve to death.

    As for Yemen’s Ansarallah, it is clear that there was no way without a massive ground offensive that the movement was going to stop firing missiles and drones at Israel.

    What we have here is a situation in which Israel finds itself incapable of defeating any of its enemies, as all of them have now been radicalised due to the mass murder inflicted upon their populations.

    In other words, Israel is not capable of victory on any front and needs a way out.

    The leader of the opposition to Israel in the region is perceived to be Iran, as it is the most powerful, which is why a conflict with it is so desired. Yet, Tehran is incredibly powerful and the US is incapable of defeating it with conventional weapons, therefore, a full-scale war is the equivalent to committing regional suicide.

    Robert Inlakesh is a journalist, writer, and documentary filmmaker. He focuses on the Middle East, specialising in Palestine. He contributed this article to The Palestine Chronicle and it is republished with permission.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE leads delegation to begin visit programme to Qatar

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (May 11) led a business delegation comprising representatives from Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises to commence its visit programme to Qatar. He met with leaders and government officials of Qatar and leant about the latest development of the country’s sovereign wealth fund. He also exchanged views with representatives of a local financial institution. He inspected Qatar’s town planning and visited local cultural and tourism facilities.
     
    In the morning, Mr Lee met respectively with the Amir of Qatar, Mr Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the head of state of Qatar; the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, Mr Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani; and the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Mr Mohammed bin Ali bin Mohammed Al Mannai, to exchange views on strengthening bilateral relations and economic co-operation between Hong Kong and Qatar.
     
    Mr Lee said that Qatar and Hong Kong are economic powerhouses in the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific region respectively. Noting that Qatar is Hong Kong’s third-largest trading partner in the Middle East with bilateral trade in goods worth US$1.6 billion last year, Mr Lee said that there is plenty of room for further growth in trade and business between the two places. He also expressed his anticipation that during this visit, multiple memoranda of understanding and agreements will be made between Hong Kong and Qatar, covering various areas including trade and investment promotion, financial services, innovation and technology (I&T), and cultural tourism, with a view to further enhancing co-operation among the governments and institutions of the two places.
     
    Mr Lee said that Hong Kong, as a functional platform of the Belt and Road Initiative, is committed to deepening international exchanges and co-operation and leveraging its strengths as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” to facilitate and add value to government and business projects along the Belt and Road through the city’s world-class professional services. He also said that the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Belt and Road Initiative align in their values and aspirations for achieving high-quality development through all-round co-operation, embracing economic diversification and innovation, as well as fostering friendship and facilitating exchanges.
     
    Mr Lee also highlighted that both Hong Kong and Qatar attach great importance to technological development and regard artificial intelligence as an engine of new economic development. He said he hoped that Hong Kong and Qatar would enhance collaboration through joint research and exchanges, joint ventures, and cross-border investments to achieve mutual benefits.
     
    Mr Lee also visited Qatar Investment Authority this morning to learn about the development of Qatar’s financial sector. Established in 2005, the Qatar Investment Authority is Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund. It manages and grows Qatar’s financial assets, with an aim to diversify Qatar’s economic development and ensure the country’s long-term financial sustainability. Mr Lee received an in-depth briefing on the operation and investment strategies of the sovereign wealth fund, and explored with the Qatar Investment Authority the development and co-operation opportunities for both sides in finance and the economy.
     
    In the afternoon, Mr Lee attended a luncheon hosted by an international financial group, where he gained insights into the group’s analysis of Qatar’s banking and financial services industry, as well as its capital markets.
     
    Noting that Hong Kong, an international financial centre now moving towards also becoming an international green finance hub, Mr Lee said that last year the total amount of green and sustainable debt issued in Hong Kong exceeded US$84 billion, with green and sustainable bonds accounting for approximately US$43 billion. It captured around 45 per cent of the total Asian market, ranking first in the region for seven consecutive years. Mr Lee said that under the principle of “one country, two systems”, Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises complement each other’s strengths, and that Hong Kong would give full play to its bridging role in attracting international investments to China and “going global” with Mainland enterprises. He welcomed Qatari enterprises to leverage Hong Kong’s broad and deep capital markets, professional financial services and seamless connectivity with the Mainland market to raise international funds for their sustainable infrastructure projects.
     
    Afterwards, Mr Lee led the delegation to visit Lusail City, the second-largest city in Qatar, to understand how the city integrates I&T with urban planning and infrastructure development. Lusail City is one of Qatar’s flagship smart cities, focusing on information and communication technology, with the aim of developing into a model for intelligent living, urban evolution and diverse cultural landscapes. Mr Lee said that Hong Kong, as the world’s third-largest financial centre, offers world-class professional services that can support Qatar’s investment needs. He also noted that Hong Kong and Qatar can explore co-operation and exchanges in areas such as sustainable urban development.
     
    Mr Lee will later visit the National Museum of Qatar to learn about the country’s history and rich cultural heritage. The museum, which opened in 2019, is dedicated to vividly presenting the story of Qatar and its people in an innovative and immersive way.
     
    The delegation led by Mr Lee will attend a dinner hosted by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the State of Qatar, Mr Cao Xiaolin. Mr Lee expressed his gratitude to the Embassy for its strong support to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Dubai, and for making meticulous arrangements for the visit.
     
    Mr Lee will lead the delegation to continue its visit to Qatar tomorrow (May 12) to meet with local political and business leaders before departing for Kuwait.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: G20 is too elite. There’s a way to fix that though – economists

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Danny Bradlow, Professor/Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Advancement of Scholarship, University of Pretoria

    The G20 claims to be “the premier forum for international economic cooperation”.

    But is it?

    As scholars of global economic governance, we are sceptical of this claim. Here are our main reasons.

    • The G20 is insufficiently representative of the 193 member states of the United Nations plus the small number of non-member states.

    • It is a self-selected group of 19 countries and the European and African Unions.

    • It has no mandate to act or speak on behalf of the international community.

    • It has no transparent or formal mechanisms through which it can communicate with actors who do not participate in the G20 but have a stake in its deliberations and their outcomes.

    The growing tensions in the world make it more urgent to improve the efficacy of the G20. Firstly, because there is growing evidence of the loss of interest in global cooperation. Secondly, because rich states are cutting their official development assistance and are failing to meet their commitments to help countries deal with loss and damage from climate impacts and make their economies more resilient to shocks.

    And thirdly, because rich countries are also reluctant to discuss financing sustainable and inclusive development in forums like the upcoming Fourth Financing for Development Conference or the UN, where all states can participate. They prefer exclusive forums like the G20.

    Here, after briefly describing the structure of the G20, we argue that its lack of representation is a major problem. We offer a solution and argue that, as chair of the G20 this year, South Africa is well placed to promote this solution.

    What is the G20 and how does it function?

    The G20 was established in the late 1990s in the wake of the East Asian financial crisis. Its members were invited by the US and Germany based on a proposal from the Canadian government. Initially only finance ministers and central bank governors of major advanced and emerging economies were involved. After the financial crisis of 2008-2009 it was upgraded to summit level with the same membership.

    A summit is held annually, under the leadership of a rotating presidency.

    The group accounts for 67% of the world’s population, 85% of global GDP, and 75% of global trade. The membership comprises 19 of the “weightiest” national economies plus the European Union and the African Union. The 19 national economies are the G7 (US, Japan, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Canada), plus Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, Russia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina. These countries are permanently “in”. The remaining 90% of countries in the world are excluded unless invited as “special guests” on an ad hoc basis.

    Representatives of a select group of international organisations including the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the World Trade Organization also participate, together with those from some UN entities.

    The G20’s work is managed by a troika consisting of the current president with the assistance of the past president and the incoming president. In 2025 this troika consists of South Africa as the current chair, Brazil as the past chair and the US, which will become the G20 president in 2026. The G20 has no permanent secretariat.

    The consistency in G20 membership has proven to be an advantage because it helps foster a sense of familiarity, understanding and trust at the technical level among the permanent members. This is helpful in times of crisis and in dealing with complex problems.

    But its exclusivity and informal status have limited its ability to address major challenges such as the global response to the economic and health consequences of the COVID pandemic. This is because an effective response required agreement and coordinated action by all states and not just those in the G20.

    A solution

    We think that the governance model of the Financial Stability Board offers a solution.

    The Financial Stability Board was established under the umbrella of the G20 in 2009. Its job is to coordinate international financial regulatory standard-setting, monitor the global financial system for signs of stress, and to make recommendations that can help avert potential financial crises.

    It is also an exclusive club. Its membership consists of the financial regulatory authorities in the G20 countries plus those in a few other countries that are considered financially systemically important.

    However, unlike the G20, the Financial Stability Board has made a systematic effort to learn the views of non-members. It has established six Regional Consultative Groups, one each for the Americas, Asia, Commonwealth of Independent States, Europe, Middle East and North Africa, and sub-Saharan Africa.

    The objective is to expand and formalise the Financial Stability Board’s outreach activities beyond its membership and to better reflect the global character of the financial system.

    The regional consultative groups operate in a framework which promotes compliance within each region with the Financial Stability Board’s policy initiatives. The framework enables the group members to share among themselves and with the board their views on common problems and solutions and on the issues on the board’s agenda.

    Importantly, each regional group is co-chaired by an official from a Financial Stability Board member and an official from a non-member institution.

    Applying this model to the G20 would allow the current G20 membership to continue, while obliging the members to establish a consultation process with regional neighbours. This would create a limited form of representation for all the world’s states.

    It would also empower the smaller and weaker members of the G20 because it would enable them to speak with more confidence and credibility about the challenges facing their region.

    This arrangement would also establish a limited form of G20 accountability towards the international community.

    Next steps

    As chair of the G20 chair for 2025, South Africa is well placed to promote this solution to the group’s representation problem. It should work with the African Union to establish an African G20 regional consultative group. South Africa and the African Union could invite each African regional organisation to select one representative to serve on the initial consultative group.

    South Africa could also commit to convey the outcomes of G20 regional consultative group meetings to the G20.

    South Africa can then use this example to demonstrate to the G20 the value of having a G20 regional consultative group and advocate that other regions should adopt the same approach.

    Danny Bradlow, in addition to his position at the University of Pretoria, is the Senior G20 Advisor, South African institute of International Affairs.

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

    – ref. G20 is too elite. There’s a way to fix that though – economists – https://theconversation.com/g20-is-too-elite-theres-a-way-to-fix-that-though-economists-255783

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: G20 is too elite. There’s a way to fix that though – economists

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Danny Bradlow, Professor/Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Advancement of Scholarship, University of Pretoria

    The G20 claims to be “the premier forum for international economic cooperation”.

    But is it?

    As scholars of global economic governance, we are sceptical of this claim. Here are our main reasons.

    • The G20 is insufficiently representative of the 193 member states of the United Nations plus the small number of non-member states.

    • It is a self-selected group of 19 countries and the European and African Unions.

    • It has no mandate to act or speak on behalf of the international community.

    • It has no transparent or formal mechanisms through which it can communicate with actors who do not participate in the G20 but have a stake in its deliberations and their outcomes.

    The growing tensions in the world make it more urgent to improve the efficacy of the G20. Firstly, because there is growing evidence of the loss of interest in global cooperation. Secondly, because rich states are cutting their official development assistance and are failing to meet their commitments to help countries deal with loss and damage from climate impacts and make their economies more resilient to shocks.

    And thirdly, because rich countries are also reluctant to discuss financing sustainable and inclusive development in forums like the upcoming Fourth Financing for Development Conference or the UN, where all states can participate. They prefer exclusive forums like the G20.

    Here, after briefly describing the structure of the G20, we argue that its lack of representation is a major problem. We offer a solution and argue that, as chair of the G20 this year, South Africa is well placed to promote this solution.

    What is the G20 and how does it function?

    The G20 was established in the late 1990s in the wake of the East Asian financial crisis. Its members were invited by the US and Germany based on a proposal from the Canadian government. Initially only finance ministers and central bank governors of major advanced and emerging economies were involved. After the financial crisis of 2008-2009 it was upgraded to summit level with the same membership.

    A summit is held annually, under the leadership of a rotating presidency.

    The group accounts for 67% of the world’s population, 85% of global GDP, and 75% of global trade. The membership comprises 19 of the “weightiest” national economies plus the European Union and the African Union. The 19 national economies are the G7 (US, Japan, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Canada), plus Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, Russia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina. These countries are permanently “in”. The remaining 90% of countries in the world are excluded unless invited as “special guests” on an ad hoc basis.

    Representatives of a select group of international organisations including the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the World Trade Organization also participate, together with those from some UN entities.

    The G20’s work is managed by a troika consisting of the current president with the assistance of the past president and the incoming president. In 2025 this troika consists of South Africa as the current chair, Brazil as the past chair and the US, which will become the G20 president in 2026. The G20 has no permanent secretariat.

    The consistency in G20 membership has proven to be an advantage because it helps foster a sense of familiarity, understanding and trust at the technical level among the permanent members. This is helpful in times of crisis and in dealing with complex problems.

    But its exclusivity and informal status have limited its ability to address major challenges such as the global response to the economic and health consequences of the COVID pandemic. This is because an effective response required agreement and coordinated action by all states and not just those in the G20.

    A solution

    We think that the governance model of the Financial Stability Board offers a solution.

    The Financial Stability Board was established under the umbrella of the G20 in 2009. Its job is to coordinate international financial regulatory standard-setting, monitor the global financial system for signs of stress, and to make recommendations that can help avert potential financial crises.

    It is also an exclusive club. Its membership consists of the financial regulatory authorities in the G20 countries plus those in a few other countries that are considered financially systemically important.

    However, unlike the G20, the Financial Stability Board has made a systematic effort to learn the views of non-members. It has established six Regional Consultative Groups, one each for the Americas, Asia, Commonwealth of Independent States, Europe, Middle East and North Africa, and sub-Saharan Africa.

    The objective is to expand and formalise the Financial Stability Board’s outreach activities beyond its membership and to better reflect the global character of the financial system.

    The regional consultative groups operate in a framework which promotes compliance within each region with the Financial Stability Board’s policy initiatives. The framework enables the group members to share among themselves and with the board their views on common problems and solutions and on the issues on the board’s agenda.

    Importantly, each regional group is co-chaired by an official from a Financial Stability Board member and an official from a non-member institution.

    Applying this model to the G20 would allow the current G20 membership to continue, while obliging the members to establish a consultation process with regional neighbours. This would create a limited form of representation for all the world’s states.

    It would also empower the smaller and weaker members of the G20 because it would enable them to speak with more confidence and credibility about the challenges facing their region.

    This arrangement would also establish a limited form of G20 accountability towards the international community.

    Next steps

    As chair of the G20 chair for 2025, South Africa is well placed to promote this solution to the group’s representation problem. It should work with the African Union to establish an African G20 regional consultative group. South Africa and the African Union could invite each African regional organisation to select one representative to serve on the initial consultative group.

    South Africa could also commit to convey the outcomes of G20 regional consultative group meetings to the G20.

    South Africa can then use this example to demonstrate to the G20 the value of having a G20 regional consultative group and advocate that other regions should adopt the same approach.

    – G20 is too elite. There’s a way to fix that though – economists
    – https://theconversation.com/g20-is-too-elite-theres-a-way-to-fix-that-though-economists-255783

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran will not back down from its nuclear rights – Foreign Minister

    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

    DOHA, May 11 (Xinhua) — Iran will not give up its nuclear rights in talks with the United States, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Saturday, a day before the start of the fourth round of proximity talks in Oman.

    Speaking at the fourth Arab-Iranian Dialogue Conference in Doha, A. Araghchi reaffirmed that Iran has always been a committed party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and defends its right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, including uranium enrichment.

    “We do not seek to possess nuclear weapons, and weapons of mass destruction have no place in Iran’s military doctrine,” he said. “For this reason, we were among the initiators of the establishment of a nuclear-weapon-free zone in West Asia.”

    The Foreign Minister stressed that Iran continues negotiations with the United States and other countries.

    If the goal of these talks is to ensure that Iran does not have nuclear weapons, then an agreement is achievable, he said. But if the goal is to strip Iran of its nuclear rights or make other unrealistic demands, then Iran will never back down.

    Iranian and US delegations have already held three rounds of indirect talks. The first and third were held on April 12 and 26 in the Omani capital Muscat, and the second was held on April 19 in Rome. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israel carries out 60 airstrikes on Gaza in 24 hours

    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

    JERUSALEM, May 11 (Xinhua) — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Saturday said it carried out airstrikes on 60 terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip over the past 24 hours.

    The statement added that, based on intelligence from the Shin Bet, the IDF killed the militants and destroyed terrorist infrastructure both above and below ground.

    Two militants were reportedly killed in the northern Gaza Strip after approaching Israeli armored forces, posing a threat to them.

    At the same time, IDF armored forces operating in Rafah and along the Morag corridor in the southern Gaza Strip struck a mined complex from which several militants were operating, posing a threat to the troops, the statement said. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –