NewzIntel.com

Category: Middle East

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Syria: Ongoing violence fuelling mass displacement in Sweida

    Source: United Nations 2

    More than 93,000 Syrians have been displaced across Sweida, neighbouring Dar’a governorate and Rural Damascus due to escalating violence in the city,  UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said at Monday’s daily press briefing in New York.

    Most displaced people in Sweida are staying with local communities or in one of 15 reception centres, while around 30 collective shelters have opened in Dar’a.

    Infrastructure and services are suffering in the area. Some hospitals and health centres in Sweida are out of service, water infrastructure has been critically damaged, significant cuts to electricity have been reported, and access to food is disrupted.

    Initial aid delivery

    On Sunday, the first aid convoy deployed by the Syrian Arab Red Crescent reached Sweida and the Salkhad district within the city, where most displaced people are seeking safety.  

    The convoy of 32 trucks carried food, water, medical supplies and fuel provided by the World Food Programme (WFP), the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and other partners.

    UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher welcomed this initial delivery on social media, saying it was a “desperately needed first step, but much more relief is needed.”  

    Mr. Dujarric stressed that as the UN engages with relevant parties to facilitate humanitarian access and ensure the protection of civilians, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is working with authorities to facilitate a direct visit to Sweida to deliver assistance when security conditions allow.  

    Mr. Fletcher echoed this sentiment, saying OCHA teams “are mobilised to move as much as we can.”

    “We continue to urge all parties to protect people who have been caught up in the violence, including by allowing them to move freely to seek safety and medical assistance,” concluded Mr. Dujarric.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: Houthi-Israel tensions, Sudan cholera cases rise, deadly attacks in Ukraine

    Source: United Nations 2

    These strikes occurred while the UN Mission to support the Hudaydah Agreement – established in 2018 to support the ceasefire between the Government of Yemen and the Houthis – was patrolling at locations to the northern parts of the Port. 

    The Secretary-General also expressed deep concern about the continuing missile and drone strikes conducted by the Houthis against Israel. 

    Risk of further escalation

    Concerned about the risk of further escalation, the UN recalled that international law, together with international humanitarian law, must be respected by all parties at all times, including the obligations to respect and protect civilian infrastructure. 

    “The Secretary-General remains profoundly concerned about the risk of further escalation in the region,” said Mr. Dujarric. 

    As the UN Chief reiterated his call for “all involved to cease all military actions and exercise maximum restraint,” he also renewed his call for the immediate and unconditional release of all UN and other personnel arbitrarily detained by the Houthi authorities. 

    Sudan: Crisis worsens as cholera and floods drive needs higher  

    The humanitarian crisis in Sudan continues to deepen as cholera spreads, flooding displaces communities, and thousands of people return to areas with little to no support, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

    In the locality of Tawiola, in North Darfur State, over 1,300 confirmed cases of cholera in just one week were reported on Sunday by an association of Sudanese doctors. 

    While local and international partners have set up cholera treatment centres, the current capacity is far from sufficient to cope with the rising caseload.  

    As Tawila hosts several hundred thousand displaced people, partners on the ground have been struggling to keep pace with the growing needs, notably as such needs are set to increase as the upcoming rainy season sets in. 

    Vulnerable returnees 

    Across Sudan, people returning to their communities face serious challenges, including the lack of essential services and the threat posed by explosive remnants of war. 

    In White Nile State, some residents have begun returning after being displaced for a year. Yet, an assessment by OCHA and its partners last week found that health, water, sanitation and hygiene support is urgently needed, even more so ahead of the rainy season.

    Similarly, in eastern Sudan, OCHA warns that many families returning to Kassala State are struggling to cope with the impact of heavy rains and flooding, as heavy rains destroyed more than 280 homes in the village of Tirik earlier in July. 

    Additionally, as insecurity continues to impede the work of humanitarians, challenges faced by returnee families often lead them to return to displacement sites, undermining the sustainability of return efforts. 

    In this context, OCHA called for increased international support to meet soaring needs across Sudan. 

    Ukraine: At least 20 civilians reportedly killed in recent attacks  

    In Ukraine, attacks over the weekend and into Monday reportedly killed over 20 civilians and injured more than 100 others, including several children, according to authorities.

    The strikes affected the capital Kyiv, as well as western and front-line regions, damaging homes, schools, and a health facility.

    In Kyiv, a kindergarten, metro stations, shops and residential buildings were hit. 

    The Ivano-Frakivsk region in western Ukraine which hosts many displaced people and had previously been less affected by hostilities, suffered the largest attack since the full-scale Russian invasion in February 2022.  

    Frontline regions  

    Meanwhile, in areas near the frontlines in the Donetsk, Dnipro and Kherson regions, hostilities caused civilian casualties and further damage to schools, a health facility, and apartment buildings. Odesa, Kharkiv, Sumy and other regions also reported that homes and shops were destroyed.  

    With support from UN agencies, and coordinating with local authorities and first respondents, humanitarian organizations on the ground continue to provide shelter materials, non-food items, legal aid, psychosocial support and assistance for children across the country.  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Jason McFarland’s Story

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: Jason McFarland’s Story

    Jason McFarland – IADC President

    Jason McFarland (left) and his mentor, Ken Fischer, are pictured in Dubai while on a trip together in 2008.

    When I think about the importance of mentorship in our industry, one person is top of mind: Ken Fischer. Our professional relationship spanned decades, and he fundamentally shaped who I am today.

    Over Thanksgiving in 2008, Ken and I traveled to the UAE on IADC business, then to Oman for the IADC Well Control Middle East Conference. I was IADC’s VP of Membership at the time; I’d been working with Ken since 1996, a year after I started with our Association in what’s known today as the IADC Bookstore.

    We were staying at the Grand Hyatt Muscat Oman, and the hotel was hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for its American guests. Ken and I got our plates and sat out on the patio, and that’s when a seemingly ordinary moment changed the trajectory of my career and my life.

    After our meal, Ken pulled out a scrap piece of paper that had the cab driver’s phone number from the night before. He started drawing out a leadership assessment grid, listing key attributes like vision, leadership, management, and technical competency. Then, he began evaluating several individuals—including me—and grading them on each of these attributes.

    The exercise Ken drew out and the conversation that followed were straightforward, because that was Ken’s way, but they changed my life. There were two things that made this moment transformative for me.

    Most importantly, this was the first time anyone had pulled me aside and told me that they thought I had potential. He believed in me at a time when I didn’t yet believe in myself. He showed me that I have something to offer, even though it took me a while to fully believe what we discussed that day.

    Jason is pictured with Faisal, a representative from an IADC member company that hosted Jason and Ken in Abu Dhabi during their visit to the Middle East in 2008.

    Secondly, he provided a clear, honest roadmap for my personal and professional growth. We talked about my weaknesses and the areas I could improve in, which motivated me to take action.

    At the time of our conversation, serving as IADC’s president was simply nowhere on my radar. But I kept that piece of paper with me, a constant reminder of Ken’s wisdom and encouragement. Years later, in 2015, I was honored to be given an opportunity to serve as IADC’s President—a journey, I believe, that truly began with that simple but powerful conversation in Oman.

    A few years ago, I visited Ken at his ranch during his battle with cancer. I pulled out the same worn piece of paper from Oman. He was astonished I still had it, and I told him what a pivotal moment that had been for me. I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to express to Ken how much he meant to me and what an impact he’d had on my personal and professional life before he passed away.

    Mentors like Ken don’t just guide careers—they change lives. They see potential in young professionals and nurture it with care, wisdom, and genuine belief. In our industry, these connections can be a truly invaluable resource.

    To everyone reading this: If you have a mentor who’s inspired you, tell them. Let them know how much you appreciate them and the impact they’ve had on you. And if you’re in a position to mentor others, don’t underestimate the profound impact you can have on someone with a simple, encouraging conversation.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Jason McFarland’s Story

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: Jason McFarland’s Story

    Jason McFarland – IADC President

    Jason McFarland (left) and his mentor, Ken Fischer, are pictured in Dubai while on a trip together in 2008.

    When I think about the importance of mentorship in our industry, one person is top of mind: Ken Fischer. Our professional relationship spanned decades, and he fundamentally shaped who I am today.

    Over Thanksgiving in 2008, Ken and I traveled to the UAE on IADC business, then to Oman for the IADC Well Control Middle East Conference. I was IADC’s VP of Membership at the time; I’d been working with Ken since 1996, a year after I started with our Association in what’s known today as the IADC Bookstore.

    We were staying at the Grand Hyatt Muscat Oman, and the hotel was hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for its American guests. Ken and I got our plates and sat out on the patio, and that’s when a seemingly ordinary moment changed the trajectory of my career and my life.

    After our meal, Ken pulled out a scrap piece of paper that had the cab driver’s phone number from the night before. He started drawing out a leadership assessment grid, listing key attributes like vision, leadership, management, and technical competency. Then, he began evaluating several individuals—including me—and grading them on each of these attributes.

    The exercise Ken drew out and the conversation that followed were straightforward, because that was Ken’s way, but they changed my life. There were two things that made this moment transformative for me.

    Most importantly, this was the first time anyone had pulled me aside and told me that they thought I had potential. He believed in me at a time when I didn’t yet believe in myself. He showed me that I have something to offer, even though it took me a while to fully believe what we discussed that day.

    Jason is pictured with Faisal, a representative from an IADC member company that hosted Jason and Ken in Abu Dhabi during their visit to the Middle East in 2008.

    Secondly, he provided a clear, honest roadmap for my personal and professional growth. We talked about my weaknesses and the areas I could improve in, which motivated me to take action.

    At the time of our conversation, serving as IADC’s president was simply nowhere on my radar. But I kept that piece of paper with me, a constant reminder of Ken’s wisdom and encouragement. Years later, in 2015, I was honored to be given an opportunity to serve as IADC’s President—a journey, I believe, that truly began with that simple but powerful conversation in Oman.

    A few years ago, I visited Ken at his ranch during his battle with cancer. I pulled out the same worn piece of paper from Oman. He was astonished I still had it, and I told him what a pivotal moment that had been for me. I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to express to Ken how much he meant to me and what an impact he’d had on my personal and professional life before he passed away.

    Mentors like Ken don’t just guide careers—they change lives. They see potential in young professionals and nurture it with care, wisdom, and genuine belief. In our industry, these connections can be a truly invaluable resource.

    To everyone reading this: If you have a mentor who’s inspired you, tell them. Let them know how much you appreciate them and the impact they’ve had on you. And if you’re in a position to mentor others, don’t underestimate the profound impact you can have on someone with a simple, encouraging conversation.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Africa’s minerals are being bartered for security: why it’s a bad idea

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hanri Mostert, SARChI Chair for Mineral Law in Africa, University of Cape Town

    A US-brokered peace deal between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda binds the two African nations to a worrying arrangement: one where a country signs away its mineral resources to a superpower in return for opaque assurances of security.

    The peace deal, signed in June 2025, aims to end three decades of conflict between the DRC and Rwanda.

    A key part of the agreement binds both nations to developing a regional economic integration framework. This arrangement would expand cooperation between the two states, the US government and American investors on “transparent, formalized end-to-end mineral chains”.

    Despite its immense mineral wealth, the DRC is among the five poorest countries in the world. It has been seeking US investment in its mineral sector.

    The US has in turn touted a potential multi-billion-dollar investment programme to anchor its mineral supply chains in the traumatised and poor territory.

    The peace that the June 2025 deal promises, therefore, hinges on chaining mineral supply to the US in exchange for Washington’s powerful – but vaguely formulated – military oversight.

    The peace agreement further establishes a joint oversight committee – with representatives from the African Union, Qatar and the US – to receive complaints and resolve disputes between the DRC and Rwanda.

    But beyond the joint oversight committee, the peace deal creates no specific security obligations for the US.

    The relationship between the DRC and Rwanda has been marred by war and tension since the bloody First (1996-1997) and Second (1998-2003) Congo wars. At the heart of much of this conflict is the DRC’s mineral wealth. It has fuelled competition, exploitation and armed violence.

    This latest peace deal introduces a resources-for-security arrangement. Such deals aren’t new in Africa. They first emerged in the early 2000s as resources-for-infrastructure transactions. Here, a foreign state would agree to build economic and social infrastructure (roads, ports, airports, hospitals) in an African state. In exchange, it would get a major stake in a government-owned mining company. Or gain preferential access to the host country’s minerals.

    We have studied mineral law and governance in Africa for more than 20 years. The question that emerges now is whether a US-brokered resources-for-security agreement will help the DRC benefit from its resources.

    Based on our research on mining, development and sustainability, we believe this is unlikely.

    This is because resources-for-security is the latest version of a resource-bartering approach that China and Russia pioneered in countries such as Angola, the Central African Republic and the DRC.

    Resource bartering in Africa has eroded the sovereignty and bargaining power of mineral-rich nations such as the DRC and Angola.

    Further, resources-for-security deals are less transparent and more complicated than prior resource bartering agreements.

    DRC’s security gaps

    The DRC is endowed with major deposits of critical minerals like cobalt, copper, lithium, manganese and tantalum. These are the building blocks for 21st century technologies: artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, wind energy and military security hardware. Rwanda has less mineral wealth than its neighbour, but is the world’s third-largest producer of tantalum, used in electronics, aerospace and medical devices.

    For almost 30 years, minerals have fuelled conflict and severe violence, especially in eastern DRC. Tungsten, tantalum and gold (referred to as 3TG) finance and drive conflict as government forces and an estimated 130 armed groups vie for control over lucrative mining sites. Several reports and studies have implicated the DRC’s neighbours – Rwanda and Uganda – in supporting the illegal extraction of 3TG in this region.

    The DRC government has failed to extend security over its vast (2.3 million square kilometres) and diverse territory (109 million people, representing 250 ethnic groups). Limited resources, logistical challenges and corruption have weakened its armed forces.

    This context makes the United States’ military backing enormously attractive. But our research shows there are traps.

    What states risk losing

    Resources-for-infrastructure and resources-for-security deals generally offer African nations short-term stability, financing or global goodwill. However, the costs are often long-term because of an erosion of sovereign control.

    Here’s how this happens:

    Examples of loss or near-loss of sovereignty from these sorts of deals abound in Africa.

    For instance, Angola’s US$2 billion oil-backed loan from China Eximbank in 2004. This was repayable in monthly deliveries of oil, with revenues directed to Chinese-controlled accounts. The loan’s design deprived Angolan authorities of decision-making power over that income stream even before the oil was extracted.

    These deals also fragment accountability. They often span multiple ministries (such as defence, mining and trade), avoiding robust oversight or accountability. Fragmentation makes resource sectors vulnerable to elite capture. Powerful insiders can manipulate agreements for private gain.

    In the DRC, this has created a violent kleptocracy, where resource wealth is systematically diverted away from popular benefit.

    Finally, there is the risk of re-entrenching extractive trauma. Communities displaced for mining and environmental degradation in many countries across Africa illustrate the long-standing harm to livelihoods, health and social cohesion.

    These are not new problems. But where extraction is tied to security or infrastructure, such damage risks becoming permanent features, not temporary costs.

    What needs to change

    Critical minerals are “critical” because they’re hard to mine or substitute. Additionally, their supply chains are strategically vulnerable and politically exposed. Whoever controls these minerals controls the future. Africa must make sure it doesn’t trade that future away.

    In a world being reshaped by global interests in critical minerals, African states must not underestimate the strategic value of their mineral resources. They hold considerable leverage.

    But leverage only works if it is wielded strategically. This means:

    • investing in institutional strength and legal capacity to negotiate better deals

    • demanding local value creation and addition

    • requiring transparency and parliamentary oversight for minerals-related agreements

    • refusing deals that bypass human rights, environmental or sovereignty standards.

    Africa has the resources. It must hold on to the power they wield.

    Hanri Mostert receives funding from the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa. She is a member of the Expropriation Expert Group and a steering committee member of the International Bar Association’s (IBA) Academic Advisory Group (AAG) in the Sector for Energy, Environmental, Resources and Infrastructure Law (SEERIL).

    Tracy-Lynn Field receives funding from the Claude Leon Foundation. She is a non-executive director of the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa.

    – ref. Africa’s minerals are being bartered for security: why it’s a bad idea – https://theconversation.com/africas-minerals-are-being-bartered-for-security-why-its-a-bad-idea-260594

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister of State and Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Responsibility for Implementing DRC Peace Agreement Lies with Both Parties

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha, July 19, 2025

    HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, affirmed that the responsibility for implementing the agreement between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement lies with both parties. His Excellency emphasized that this achievement represents a firm foundation upon which to build a more secure and stable future for the region.

    Speaking at a press conference following the signing of the Declaration of Principles between the Government of the DRC and the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement in Doha today, His Excellency described the declaration as a critical step toward strengthening peace and stability in eastern DRC. It marks the beginning of direct negotiations aimed at achieving a comprehensive peace that addresses the root causes of the conflict. He expressed confidence in the commitment of both parties to uphold the agreement.

    HE Dr. Al Khulaifi underscored the State of Qatar’s role as a neutral and effective mediator, highlighting its efforts to bring the parties closer together and build bridges of understanding. He praised the sense of responsibility demonstrated by both sides in reaching this declaration and expressed appreciation for the trust placed in Qatar to facilitate the process.

    His Excellency commended the substantial support of HE President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Felix Tshisekedi, for the peace process, as well as the constructive approach of the Congolese government’s negotiating delegation. He also acknowledged the cooperation of Bernard Bisimwa, Vice President of the Congo River Alliance/M23 Movement, and the movement’s delegation during the talks.

    HE Dr. Al Khulaifi noted that Qatari mediation efforts began in March, when HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani hosted HE President Tshisekedi and HE President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, in Doha. During that meeting, President Tshisekedi expressed his readiness to engage in dialogue with the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement.

    Since then, Qatar has hosted direct negotiations between the parties, which were marked by a positive and responsible spirit, grounded in a shared belief in dialogue as the primary path to conflict resolution. These efforts culminated in the signing of the Declaration of Principles.

    Dr. Al Khulaifi stated that the leaders’ meeting in March served as a launching point for this process, leading to a series of positive developments, including the signing of the Washington Agreement between the DRC and Rwanda on June 27, 2025, an agreement that paved the way for today’s declaration.

    He emphasized that the Declaration of Principles is not solely focused on ending violence but also provides a practical roadmap for national reconciliation. It marks the beginning of a new phase of cooperation among various societal components in the DRC, including armed groups that have chosen the path of peace. The declaration also outlines a significant role for the international community in supporting peacebuilding and sustainable development.

    His Excellency noted that the two parties demonstrated a genuine determination to break the cycle of violence and build mutual trust through concrete actions, such as the exchange of prisoners and detainees, the restoration of state authority, and the dignified return of displaced persons and refugees.

    HE Dr. Al Khulaifi expressed the State of Qatar’s gratitude to the African Union and acknowledged the support of the United States of America, particularly the efforts of HE US Presidential Envoy and Senior Advisor for African Affairs, Massad Boulos. He also commended the contributions of HE Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.

    Additionally, His Excellency recognized the constructive roles played by the Republic of Rwanda, the French Republic, the United Kingdom, and the Consultative Dialogue Group, as well as the engagement of all regional and international partners backing the process.

    HE Dr. Al Khulaifi affirmed that this initiative reflects Qatar’s steadfast commitment to mediation as a cornerstone of its foreign policy. The State of Qatar remains dedicated to supporting peacemaking efforts, advancing sustainable development, and empowering communities to achieve long-term stability grounded in justice, inclusiveness, and mutual respect.

    He expressed hope that the Declaration of Principles will represent a meaningful step toward lasting peace and sustainable development in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the wider region.

    For his part, HE Massad Boulos, the US Presidential Envoy and Senior Advisor for African Affairs, praised Qatar’s vital role in facilitating the agreement, stating: “The State of Qatar is known for its pioneering role in resolving conflicts around the world, and we thank it for its essential efforts in this matter.”

    HE Boulos noted that the conflict in the DRC has displaced more than eight million people, and that past initiatives have largely failed to yield results, making the Doha agreement a rare and valuable opportunity to achieve peace.

    He further highlighted Qatar’s diplomatic leadership over the past two decades in facilitating complex peace processes, from Darfur in Sudan, to the Lebanese crisis, the Afghanistan negotiations, and now the DRC.

    HE Boulos emphasized that while the Declaration of Principles marks only the first step, it is a critical one. It addresses core issues such as the immediate and permanent cessation of violence, prisoner exchanges, the restoration of full state authority, and the safe, dignified return of displaced persons and refugees. He called for the launch of direct negotiations to address the roots of the conflict and reach a comprehensive peace agreement, while urging international support for national reconciliation and development in conflict-affected areas.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Skillful Application of Fundamental Principles Yields Standout Results: TrustCo Announces Net Income Up 19.8%; Net Interest Income up 10.5%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Executive Snapshot:

    • Bank-wide financial results:
      • Key metrics for the second quarter 2025:
        • Net income of $15.0 million, or $0.79 diluted earnings per share, increased 19.8% compared to $12.6 million, or $0.66 diluted earnings per share for the second quarter 2024
        • Net interest income of $41.7 million, up 10.5% from $37.8 million for the second quarter 2024
        • Net interest margin of 2.71%, up 18 basis points from 2.53% in second quarter of 2024
        • Average loans were up $115.6 million for the second quarter 2025 compared to the second quarter 2024
        • Average deposits were up $173.4 million for the second quarter 2025 compared to the second quarter 2024
    • Capital position and key ratios:
      • Consolidated equity to assets increased to 10.91% as of June 30, 2025 from 10.73% as of June 30, 2024
      • Book value per share as of June 30, 2025 was $36.75, up from $34.46 as of June 30, 2024
      • 169 thousand shares of TrustCo common stock were purchased under the stock repurchase program during the second quarter 2025
    • Trustco Financial Services and Wealth Management income:
      • Fees increased to $1.8 million, or by 13.0%, compared to second quarter 2024
      • Assets under management increased to $1.19 billion, or by 8.2%, compared to second quarter 2024

    GLENVILLE, N.Y., July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TrustCo Bank Corp NY (TrustCo, NASDAQ: TRST) today announced strong financial results for the second quarter of 2025 underscored by rising net interest income, continued margin expansion, and accelerated loan growth across key portfolios. Net interest income increased 10.5% year over year to $41.7 million, driven by the ongoing repricing of the loan portfolio at higher yields and disciplined management of deposit costs, which remained well-controlled despite sustained competitive pressures. Net interest margin expanded to 2.71% from 2.53% in the prior year period, reflecting improved asset yields and prudent deposit pricing strategies. This resulted in second quarter 2025 net income of $15.0 million or $0.79 diluted earnings per share, compared to net income of $12.6 million or $0.66 diluted earnings per share for the second quarter 2024. Loan growth gained momentum during the quarter, with total average loans increasing $115.6 million or 2.3% for the second quarter 2025 over the same period in 2024. This growth signals increasing borrower confidence and supports the Bank’s strategic focus on high quality relationship lending.        

    Overview

    Chairman, President, and CEO, Robert J. McCormick said “Part of our long-term strategy is having the right mix of products available so that we can sell the right thing, to the right customer, at the right time. It is our ability to do this with agility and skill that has produced the standout results announced today. We saw double digit growth in our return metrics year over year, as return on average assets improved 17%, and return on average equity grew 12.5%. Our margin improved 7% year over year, in tandem with a 12% year over year improvement in adjusted efficiency ratio. Our ability to sell home equity products at a time of high market demand for the flexibility they offer has been key to this success. Home equity credit lines are up 18% year over year. Likewise, we strategically grew commercial loans 11% year over year – which we have done without exposure to risky multi-family loans or other industry-specific concentrations. We lowered non-performing loans to total loans by 7% year over year, and booked a second consecutive quarter of net recoveries. These exceptional results in the first half of 2025 provide a foundation for positive momentum moving into 2026.”

    Details

    As the year continues to progress, we are seeing increased opportunities to deploy our resources effectively. Some efforts include loan originations, targeted investments in technology and digital banking infrastructure, and strategic growth in key markets. Average loans were up $115.6 million, or 2.3%, in the second quarter 2025 over the same period in 2024. Average residential loans and HECLs, our primary lending focus, were up $27.9 million, or 0.6%, and $64.7 million, or 17.8%, respectively, in the second quarter 2025 over the same period in 2024. Average commercial loans also increased $25.8 million, or 9.2%, in the second quarter 2025 over the same period in 2024. We believe that this upward trend reflects improving economic confidence among borrowers, strong credit quality, and the Bank’s focus on relationship lending. The sustained growth in the loan portfolio will likely enhance net interest income in the quarters ahead. Average deposits were up $173.4 million, or 3.3%, for the second quarter 2025 over the same period in 2024, primarily as a result of an increase in time deposits, interest bearing checking accounts, and demand deposits. The Bank’s continued emphasis on relationship banking, combined with competitive product offerings and digital capabilities, has contributed to a stable deposit base that supports ongoing loan growth and expansion.

    During the second quarter of 2025, we remained committed to returning value to shareholders through a disciplined share repurchase program, which reflects our confidence in the long-term strength of the franchise and our focus on capital optimization. TrustCo purchased 169 thousand, or 0.9%, of total shares outstanding of TrustCo common stock under the previously announced stock repurchase program during the second quarter of 2025. Our approach ensures every dollar of capital is working to generate solid returns, strengthen customer relationships, and enhance shareholder value. As of June 30, 2025, our equity to asset ratio was 10.91%, compared to 10.73% as of June 30, 2024. Book value per share as of June 30, 2025 was $36.75, up 6.6% compared to $34.46 a year earlier.

    Net interest income was $41.7 million for the second quarter 2025, an increase of $4.0 million, or 10.5%, compared to the second quarter of 2024, driven by loan growth at higher interest rates, increase in interest on federal funds sold and other short-term investments, and less interest expense on deposit products, partially offset by lower investment interest income. The net interest margin for the second quarter 2025 was 2.71%, up 18 basis points from 2.53% in the second quarter of 2024. The yield on interest earnings assets increased to 4.19% in the second quarter of 2025, up 13 basis points from 4.06% in the second quarter of 2024. The cost of interest bearing liabilities decreased to 1.91% in the second quarter 2025, down from 1.97% in the second quarter 2024. The Bank is well positioned to continue delivering strong net interest income performance even as the Federal Reserve signals a potential easing cycle in the months ahead. Our balance sheet is built for resilience and flexibility, with a favorable asset mix and a stable deposit base that we believe positions us to thrive across interest rate environments. In addition to new loan originations, we are seeing ongoing opportunities to reprice portions of our existing loan book as higher-rate loans replace paydowns and early payoffs, helping us maintain attractive yields. With loan demand accelerating and funding costs stabilizing, we believe there is meaningful upside to net interest income in the coming quarters. Our proactive asset-liability management strategy gives us confidence in sustaining margin strength and driving consistent profitable growth.

    Non-interest income, net of net gains on equity securities, increased to $4.9 million as compared to $4.3 million for the second quarter of 2024. This increase was primarily attributable to wealth management and financial services fees, which increased by 13.0% to $1.8 million, driven by strong client demand and higher assets under management. These revenues represent 37.5% of non-interest income for the second quarter of 2025. The majority of this fee income is recurring, supported by long-term advisory relationships and a growing base of managed assets. Non-interest expense increased $236 thousand over the second quarter of 2024.

    Asset quality remains strong and has been consistent over the past twelve months. The Company recorded a provision for credit losses on loans of $650 thousand in the second quarter of 2025. The ratio of allowance for credit losses on loans to total loans was 0.99% as of both June 30, 2025 and 2024. The allowance for credit losses on loans was $51.3 million as of June 30, 2025, compared to $49.8 million as of June 30, 2024. Nonperforming loans (NPLs) were $17.9 million as of June 30, 2025, compared to $19.2 million as of June 30, 2024. NPLs were 0.35% and 0.38% of total loans as of June 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The coverage ratio, or allowance for credit losses on loans to NPLs, was 286.2% as of June 30, 2025, compared to 259.4% as of June 30, 2024. Nonperforming assets (NPAs) were $19.0 million as of June 30, 2025, compared to $21.5 million as of June 30, 2024.  

    A conference call to discuss second quarter 2025 results will be held at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time on July 22, 2025. Those wishing to participate in the call may dial toll-free for the United States at 1-833-470-1428, and for Canada at 1-833-950-0062, Access code 258501. A replay of the call will be available for thirty days by dialing toll-free for the United States at 1-866-813-9403, Access code 410483.   The call will also be audio webcast at  https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/979003710, and will be available for one year.

    About TrustCo Bank Corp NY

    TrustCo Bank Corp NY is a $6.3 billion savings and loan holding company and through its subsidiary, Trustco Bank, operated 136 offices in New York, New Jersey, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Florida as of June 30, 2025.

    In addition, the Bank’s Wealth Management Department offers a full range of investment services, retirement planning and trust and estate administration services. The common shares of TrustCo are traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol TRST.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    All statements in this news release and the related earnings call that are not historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “seek,” “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “expect,” “strategy,” “future,” “likely,” “may,” “should,” “will” and similar references to future development, results or periods. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements we make regarding our expectations for our future performance, including our expectations regarding the impact of our loan portfolio’s growth, loan demand and funding cost on net interest income, and the anticipated effects of our capital management strategy, including our stock repurchase program. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations as well as certain assumptions and estimates made by, and information available to, management at the time the statements are made. Such forward-looking statements are subject to factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially for TrustCo from the views, beliefs and projections expressed in such statements, and many of the risks and uncertainties are heightened by or may, in the future, be heightened by volatility in financial markets and macroeconomic or geopolitical concerns related to inflation, changes in United States and foreign trade policy, continued elevated interest rates and ongoing armed conflicts (including the Russia/Ukraine conflict and the conflict in Israel and surrounding areas). TrustCo wishes to caution readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The following important factors, among others, in some cases have affected and in the future could affect TrustCo’s actual results and could cause TrustCo’s actual financial performance to differ materially from that expressed in any forward-looking statement: future changes in interest rates; external economic factors, such as changes in monetary policy, ongoing inflationary pressures and continued elevated prices; exposure to credit risk in our lending activities; the risk of weakness in residential real estate markets; our increasing commercial loan portfolio; the sufficiency of our allowance for credit losses on loans to cover actual loan losses; our ability to meet the cash flow requirements of our depositors or borrowers or meet our operating cash needs to fund corporate expansion and other activities; claims and litigation pertaining to fiduciary responsibility and lender liability; the enforcement of federal cannabis laws and regulations and its impact on our ability to provide services in the cannabis industry; our dependency upon the services of the management team; our disclosure controls and procedures’ ability to prevent or detect errors or acts of fraud; the adequacy of our business continuity and disaster recovery plans; the effectiveness of our risk management framework; the impact of any expansion by us into new lines of business or new products and services; an increase in the prevalence of fraud and other financial crimes; the impact of severe weather events and climate change on us and the communities we serve, including societal responses to climate change; environmental, social and governance risks, as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion-related risks, and their impact on our reputation and relationships; the chance of a prolonged economic downturn, especially one affecting our geographic market area; instability in global economic conditions and geopolitical matters, as well as volatility in financial markets; the soundness of other financial institutions; U.S. government shutdowns, credit rating downgrades, or failure to increase the debt ceiling; fluctuations in the trust wealth management fees we receive as a result of investment performance; the impact of regulatory capital rules on our growth; changes in laws and regulations, including changes in cybersecurity or privacy regulations; restrictions on data collection and use; our compliance with the USA PATRIOT Act, Bank Secrecy Act, and other laws and regulations that could result in material fines or sanctions; changes in tax laws; limitations on our ability to pay dividends; TrustCo Realty Corp.’s ability to qualify as a real estate investment trust; changes in accounting standards; competition within our market areas; consumers and businesses’ use of non-banks to complete financial transactions; our reliance on third-party service providers; the impact of data breaches and cyber-attacks; the development and use of artificial intelligence; the impact of a failure in or breach of our operational or security systems or infrastructure, or those of third parties; the impact of an unauthorized disclosure of sensitive or confidential client or customer information; the impact of interruptions in the effective operation of our computer systems; the impact of anti-takeover provisions in our organizational documents; the impact of the manner in which we allocate capital; and other risks and uncertainties set forth in our public filings made with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2025 to be filed with the SEC. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release represent TrustCo management’s judgment as of the date of this news release. TrustCo disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements, either as a result of future developments, new information or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    TRUSTCO BANK CORP NY
    GLENVILLE, NY
     
    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
     
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
      Three months ended
      6/30/2025
    		   3/31/2025
    		   6/30/2024
    Summary of operations          
    Net interest income $ 41,746     $ 40,373     $ 37,788  
    Provision for credit losses   650       300       500  
    Net gains on equity securities   –       –       1,360  
    Noninterest income, excluding net gains on equity securities   4,852       4,974       4,291  
    Noninterest expense   26,223       26,329       26,459  
    Net income   15,039       14,275       12,551  
               
    Per share          
    Net income per share:          
    – Basic $ 0.79     $ 0.75     $ 0.66  
    – Diluted   0.79       0.75       0.66  
    Cash dividends   0.36       0.36       0.36  
    Book value at period end   36.75       36.16       34.46  
    Market price at period end   33.42       30.48       28.77  
               
    At period end          
    Full time equivalent employees   733       740       753  
    Full service banking offices   136       136       138  
               
    Performance ratios          
    Return on average assets   0.96 %     0.93 %     0.82 %
    Return on average equity   8.73       8.49       7.76  
    Efficiency ratio (GAAP)   56.27       58.06       60.91  
    Adjusted Efficiency ratio (1)   55.15       58.00       62.84  
    Net interest spread   2.28       2.21       2.09  
    Net interest margin   2.71       2.64       2.53  
    Dividend payout ratio   45.27       47.97       54.57  
               
    Capital ratios at period end          
    Consolidated equity to assets   10.91 %     10.85 %     10.73 %
    Consolidated tangible equity to tangible assets (1)   10.91 %     10.84 %     10.72 %
               
    Asset quality analysis at period end          
    Nonperforming loans to total loans   0.35 %     0.37 %     0.38 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets   0.30       0.33       0.35  
    Allowance for credit losses on loans to total loans   0.99       0.99       0.99  
    Coverage ratio (2)   2.9x       2.7x       2.6x  
               
               
    (1) Non-GAAP Financial Measure, see Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation.
    (2) Calculated as allowance for credit losses on loans divided by total nonperforming loans.          
    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS, Continued      
     
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)      
    (Unaudited)      
      Six Months Ended
      06/30/25
    		   06/30/24
    Summary of operations      
    Net interest income $ 82,119       74,366  
    Provision for credit losses   950       1,100  
    Net gains on equity securities   –       1,360  
    Noninterest income, excluding net gains on equity securities   9,826       9,134  
    Noninterest expense   52,552       51,362  
    Net income   29,314       24,677  
           
    Per share      
    Net income per share:      
    – Basic $ 1.54       1.30  
    – Diluted   1.54       1.30  
    Cash dividends   0.72       0.72  
    Book value at period end   36.75       34.46  
    Market price at period end   33.42       28.77  
           
    Performance ratios      
    Return on average assets   0.94 %     0.81  
    Return on average equity   8.61       7.65  
    Efficiency ratio (GAAP)   57.16       60.53  
    Adjusted Efficiency ratio (1)   56.56       61.40  
    Net interest spread   2.24       2.05  
    Net interest margin   2.68       2.48  
    Dividend payout ratio   46.58       55.51  
           
    (1) Non-GAAP Financial Measure, see Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation.      
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
                       
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)                  
    (Unaudited)                  
      Three months ended
      6/30/2025   3/31/2025   12/31/2024   9/30/2024     6/30/2024  
    Interest and dividend income:                  
    Interest and fees on loans $ 54,557     $ 53,450     $ 53,024     $ 52,112     $ 50,660  
    Interest and dividends on securities available for sale:                  
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises   614       596       680       718       909  
    State and political subdivisions   –       –       –       –       1  
    Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage                  
    obligations – residential   1,613       1,483       1,418       1,397       1,451  
    Corporate bonds   210       260       358       361       362  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed                  
    participation securities   75       81       84       90       94  
    Other securities   8       7       6       2       2  
    Total interest and dividends on securities available for sale   2,520       2,427       2,546       2,568       2,819  
                       
    Interest on held to maturity securities:                  
    obligations – residential   54       57       59       62       65  
    Total interest on held to maturity securities   54       57       59       62       65  
                       
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock   129       151       152       153       147  
                       
    Interest on federal funds sold and other short-term investments   7,212       6,732       6,128       6,174       6,894  
    Total interest income   64,472       62,817       61,909       61,069       60,585  
                       
    Interest expense:                  
    Interest on deposits:                  
    Interest-bearing checking   536       558       397       311       288  
    Savings   733       734       719       770       675  
    Money market deposit accounts   2,086       1,989       2,024       2,154       2,228  
    Time deposits   19,195       18,983       19,680       18,969       19,400  
    Interest on short-term borrowings   176       180       187       194       206  
    Total interest expense   22,726       22,444       23,007       22,398       22,797  
                       
    Net interest income   41,746       40,373       38,902       38,671       37,788  
                       
    Less: Provision for credit losses   650       300       400       500       500  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   41,096       40,073       38,502       38,171       37,288  
                       
    Noninterest income:                  
    Trustco Financial Services income   1,818       2,120       1,778       2,044       1,609  
    Fees for services to customers   2,266       2,645       2,226       2,482       2,399  
    Net gains on equity securities   –       –       –       23       1,360  
    Other   768       209       405       382       283  
    Total noninterest income   4,852       4,974       4,409       4,931       5,651  
                       
    Noninterest expenses:                  
    Salaries and employee benefits   11,876       11,894       12,068       12,134       12,520  
    Net occupancy expense   4,518       4,554       4,563       4,271       4,375  
    Equipment expense   1,918       1,944       2,404       1,757       1,990  
    Professional services   1,886       1,726       1,782       1,863       1,570  
    Outsourced services   2,460       2,700       3,051       2,551       2,755  
    Advertising expense   304       361       590       339       466  
    FDIC and other insurance   1,136       1,188       1,113       1,112       797  
    Other real estate expense, net   522       28       476       204       16  
    Other   1,603       1,934       2,118       1,969       1,970  
    Total noninterest expenses   26,223       26,329       28,165       26,200       26,459  
                       
    Income before taxes   19,725       18,718       14,746       16,902       16,480  
    Income taxes   4,686       4,443       3,465       4,027       3,929  
                       
    Net income $ 15,039     $ 14,275     $ 11,281     $ 12,875     $ 12,551  
                       
    Net income per common share:                  
    – Basic $ 0.79     $ 0.75     $ 0.59     $ 0.68     $ 0.66  
                       
    – Diluted   0.79       0.75       0.59       0.68       0.66  
                       
    Average basic shares (in thousands)   18,965       19,020       19,015       19,010       19,022  
    Average diluted shares (in thousands)   18,994       19,044       19,045       19,036       19,033  
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME, Continued
     
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)
    (Unaudited)
      Six Months Ended
      06/30/25   06/30/24
    Interest and dividend income:      
    Interest and fees on loans $ 108,007       100,464  
    Interest and dividends on securities available for sale:      
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises   1,210       1,815  
    State and political subdivisions   –       1  
    Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage      
    obligations – residential   3,096       2,945  
    Corporate bonds   470       838  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed      
    participation securities   156       194  
    Other securities   15       5  
    Total interest and dividends on securities available for sale   4,947       5,798  
           
    Interest on held to maturity securities:      
    Mortgage-backed securities-residential   111       133  
    Total interest on held to maturity securities   111       133  
           
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock   280       299  
           
    Interest on federal funds sold and other short-term investments   13,944       13,644  
    Total interest income   127,289       120,338  
           
    Interest expense:      
    Interest on deposits:      
    Interest-bearing checking   1,094       528  
    Savings   1,467       1,387  
    Money market deposit accounts   4,075       4,570  
    Time deposits   38,178       39,077  
    Interest on short-term borrowings   356       410  
    Total interest expense   45,170       45,972  
           
    Net interest income   82,119       74,366  
           
    Less: Provision for credit losses   950       1,100  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   81,169       73,266  
           
    Noninterest income:      
    Trustco Financial Services income   3,938       3,425  
    Fees for services to customers   4,911       5,144  
    Net gains on equity securities   –       1,360  
    Other   977       565  
    Total noninterest income   9,826       10,494  
           
    Noninterest expenses:      
    Salaries and employee benefits   23,770       23,947  
    Net occupancy expense   9,072       8,986  
    Equipment expense   3,862       3,728  
    Professional services   3,612       3,030  
    Outsourced services   5,160       5,256  
    Advertising expense   665       874  
    FDIC and other insurance   2,324       1,891  
    Other real estate expense, net   550       90  
    Other   3,537       3,560  
    Total noninterest expenses   52,552       51,362  
           
    Income before taxes   38,443       32,398  
    Income taxes   9,129       7,721  
           
    Net income $ 29,314       24,677  
           
    Net income per common share:      
    – Basic $ 1.54       1.30  
           
    – Diluted   1.54       1.30  
           
    Average basic shares (in thousands)   18,992       19,023  
    Average diluted shares (in thousands)   19,019       19,033  
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
     
    (dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
      6/30/2025
    		   3/31/2025
    		   12/31/2024
    		   9/30/2024
    		   6/30/2024
    ASSETS:                  
                       
    Cash and due from banks $ 45,218     $ 48,782     $ 47,364     $ 49,659     $ 42,193  
    Federal funds sold and other short term investments   668,373       707,355       594,448       473,306       493,920  
    Total cash and cash equivalents   713,591       756,137       641,812       522,965       536,113  
                       
    Securities available for sale:                  
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises   71,241       65,942       85,617       90,588       106,796  
    States and political subdivisions   18       18       18       26       26  
    Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage                  
    obligations – residential   221,721       219,333       213,128       222,841       218,311  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed                  
    participation securities   12,945       13,683       14,141       15,171       15,592  
    Corporate bonds   29,943       24,779       44,581       54,327       53,764  
    Other securities   698       698       700       701       688  
    Total securities available for sale   336,566       324,453       358,185       383,654       395,177  
                       
    Held to maturity securities:                  
    Mortgage-backed securities and collateralized mortgage                  
    obligations-residential   4,836       5,090       5,365       5,636       5,921  
    Total held to maturity securities   4,836       5,090       5,365       5,636       5,921  
                       
    Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank stock   6,601       6,507       6,507       6,507       6,507  
                       
    Loans:                  
    Commercial   314,273       302,753       286,857       280,261       282,441  
    Residential mortgage loans   4,394,317       4,380,561       4,388,302       4,382,674       4,370,640  
    Home equity line of credit   435,433       419,806       409,261       393,418       370,063  
    Installment loans   12,678       13,017       13,638       14,503       15,168  
    Loans, net of deferred net costs   5,156,701       5,116,137       5,098,058       5,070,856       5,038,312  
                       
    Less: Allowance for credit losses on loans   51,265       50,606       50,248       49,950       49,772  
    Net loans   5,105,436       5,065,531       5,047,810       5,020,906       4,988,540  
                       
    Bank premises and equipment, net   38,129       37,178       33,782       33,324       33,466  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets   36,322       34,968       36,627       37,958       38,376  
    Other assets   106,894       108,681       108,656       98,730       102,544  
                       
    Total assets $ 6,348,375     $ 6,338,545     $ 6,238,744 $ 6,109,680     $ 6,106,644  
                       
    LIABILITIES:                  
    Deposits:                  
    Demand $ 784,351     $ 793,306     $ 762,101     $ 753,878     $ 745,227  
    Interest-bearing checking   1,045,043       1,067,948       1,027,540       988,527       1,029,606  
    Savings accounts   1,082,489       1,094,968       1,086,534       1,092,038       1,144,427  
    Money market deposit accounts   467,087       478,872       465,049       477,113       517,445  
    Time deposits   2,111,344       2,061,576       2,049,759       1,952,635       1,840,262  
    Total deposits   5,490,314       5,496,670       5,390,983       5,264,191       5,276,967  
                       
    Short-term borrowings   82,370       82,275       84,781       91,450       89,720  
    Operating lease liabilities   39,350       38,324       40,159       41,469       42,026  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   43,536       33,468       46,478       43,549       42,763  
                       
    Total liabilities   5,655,570       5,650,737       5,562,401       5,440,659       5,451,476  
                       
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:                  
    Capital stock   20,097       20,097       20,097       20,058       20,058  
    Surplus   259,490       259,182       258,874       257,644       257,490  
    Undivided profits   462,158       453,931       446,503       442,079       436,048  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax   1,663       (132 )     (3,861 )     (6,600 )     (14,268 )
    Treasury stock at cost   (50,603 )     (45,270 )     (45,270 )     (44,160 )     (44,160 )
                       
    Total shareholders’ equity   692,805       687,808       676,343       669,021       655,168  
                       
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 6,348,375     $ 6,338,545     $ 6,238,744 $ 6,109,680     $ 6,106,644  
                       
    Outstanding shares (in thousands)   18,851       19,020       19,020       19,010       19,010  
    NONPERFORMING ASSETS
               
    (dollars in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
      6/30/2025
    		   3/31/2025
    		   12/31/2024
    		   9/30/2024
    		   6/30/2024
    Nonperforming Assets                                      
                                           
    New York and other states*                                      
    Loans in nonaccrual status:                                      
    Commercial $ 684     $ 688     $ 343     $ 466     $ 741  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family   14,048       14,795       14,671       15,320       14,992  
    Installment   34       139       108       163       131  
    Total nonperforming loans   14,766       15,622       15,122       15,949       15,864  
    Other real estate owned   1,136       2,107       2,175       2,503       2,334  
    Total nonperforming assets $ 15,902     $ 17,729     $ 17,297     $ 18,452     $ 18,198  
               
    Florida          
    Loans in nonaccrual status:          
    Commercial $ –     $ –     $ –     $ 314     $ 314  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family   3,132       3,135       3,656       3,176       2,985  
    Installment   12       3       22       5       22  
    Total nonperforming loans   3,144       3,138       3,678       3,495       3,321  
    Other real estate owned   –       –       –       –       –  
    Total nonperforming assets $ 3,144     $ 3,138     $ 3,678     $ 3,495     $ 3,321  
               
    Total          
    Loans in nonaccrual status:          
    Commercial $ 684     $ 688     $ 343     $ 780     $ 1,055  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family   17,180       17,930       18,327       18,496       17,977  
    Installment   46       142       130       168       153  
    Total nonperforming loans   17,910       18,760       18,800       19,444       19,185  
    Other real estate owned   1,136       2,107       2,175       2,503       2,334  
    Total nonperforming assets $ 19,046     $ 20,867     $ 20,975     $ 21,947     $ 21,519  
               
               
    Quarterly Net (Recoveries) Chargeoffs          
               
    New York and other states*          
    Commercial $ –     $ (3 )   $ 62     $ 65     $ –  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family   (121 )     41       (316 )     104       (74 )
    Installment   18       4       41       11       (2 )
    Total net chargeoffs (recoveries) $ (103 )   $ 42     $ (213 )   $ 180     $ (76 )
               
    Florida          
    Commercial $ –     $ (315 )   $ 314     $ –     $ –  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family   –       –       –       –       17  
    Installment   94       15       1       42       7  
    Total net (recoveries) chargeoffs $ 94     $ (300 )   $ 315     $ 42     $ 24  
               
    Total          
    Commercial $ –     $ (318 )   $ 376     $ 65     $ –  
    Real estate mortgage – 1 to 4 family   (121 )     41       (316 )     104       (57 )
    Installment   112       19       42       53       5  
    Total net (recoveries) chargeoffs $ (9 )   $ (258 )   $ 102     $ 222     $ (52 )
               
               
    Asset Quality Ratios          
               
    Total nonperforming loans (1) $ 17,910     $ 18,760     $ 18,800     $ 19,444     $ 19,185  
    Total nonperforming assets (1)   19,046       20,867       20,975       21,947       21,519  
    Total net (recoveries) chargeoffs (2)   (9 )     (258 )     102       222       (52 )
               
    Allowance for credit losses on loans (1)   51,265       50,606       50,248       49,950       49,772  
               
    Nonperforming loans to total loans   0.35 %     0.37 %     0.37 %     0.38 %     0.38 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets   0.30 %     0.33 %     0.34 %     0.36 %     0.35 %
    Allowance for credit losses on loans to total loans   0.99 %     0.99 %     0.99 %     0.99 %     0.99 %
    Coverage ratio (1)   286.2 %     269.8 %     267.3 %     256.9 %     259.4 %
    Annualized net (recoveries) chargeoffs to average loans (2)   0.00 %     -0.02 %     0.01 %     0.02 %     0.00 %
    Allowance for credit losses on loans to annualized net chargeoffs (2) N/A N/A 123.2x 56.3x N/A
     
    * Includes New York, New Jersey, Vermont and Massachusetts.
    (1) At period-end
    (2) For the three-month period ended
    DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS, LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY –
    INTEREST RATES AND INTEREST DIFFERENTIAL
     
    (dollars in thousands)                              
    (Unaudited) Three months ended   Three months ended
      June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
      Average   Interest     Average     Average   Interest     Average  
      Balance         Rate     Balance         Rate  
    Assets                              
                                   
    Securities available for sale:                              
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises $ 73,468     $ 614       3.34 %   $ 113,844     $ 909       3.20 %  
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                              
    obligations – residential   244,628       1,613       2.62       250,517       1,451       2.30  
    State and political subdivisions   18       0       6.77       26       1       6.75  
    Corporate bonds   25,707       210       3.26       55,065       362       2.63  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed                              
    participation securities   14,083       75       2.14       17,436       94       2.15  
    Other   697       8       4.59       694       2       1.15  
                                   
    Total securities available for sale   358,601       2,520       2.81       437,582       2,819       2.58  
                                   
    Federal funds sold and other short-term Investments   648,457       7,212       4.46       506,493       6,894       5.48  
                                   
    Held to maturity securities:                              
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                              
    obligations – residential   4,970       54       4.37       6,054       65       4.28  
                                   
    Total held to maturity securities   4,970       54       4.37       6,054       65       4.28  
                                   
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock   6,591       129       7.83       6,340       147       9.27  
                                   
    Commercial loans   306,373       4,261       5.56       280,559       3,765       5.37  
    Residential mortgage loans   4,387,181       43,236       3.94       4,359,232       40,819       3.75  
    Home equity lines of credit   428,933       6,830       6.39       364,210       5,814       6.42  
    Installment loans   12,523       230       7.35       15,395       262       6.86  
                                   
    Loans, net of unearned income   5,135,010       54,557       4.25       5,019,396       50,660       4.04  
                                   
    Total interest earning assets   6,153,629     $ 64,472       4.19       5,975,865     $ 60,585       4.06  
                                   
    Allowance for credit losses on loans   (50,777 )                 (49,454 )            
    Cash & non-interest earning assets   204,006                   181,688              
                                   
                                   
    Total assets $ 6,306,858                 $ 6,108,099              
                                   
                                   
    Liabilities and shareholders’ equity                              
                                   
    Deposits:                              
    Interest bearing checking accounts $ 1,039,242     $ 536       0.21 %   $ 1,009,048     $ 288       0.11 %  
    Money market accounts   470,824       2,086       1.78       524,068       2,228       1.71  
    Savings   1,087,467       733       0.27       1,145,922       675       0.24  
    Time deposits   2,085,329       19,195       3.69       1,873,139       19,400       4.17  
                                   
    Total interest bearing deposits   4,682,862       22,550       1.93       4,552,177       22,591       2.00  
    Short-term borrowings   81,055       176       0.87       93,703       206       0.89  
                                   
    Total interest bearing liabilities   4,763,917     $ 22,726       1.91       4,645,880     $ 22,797       1.97  
                                   
    Demand deposits   777,956                   735,262              
    Other liabilities   73,903                   76,258              
    Shareholders’ equity   691,082                   650,699              
                                   
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 6,306,858                 $ 6,108,099              
                                   
    Net interest income     $ 41,746                 $ 37,788          
                                   
    Net interest spread           2.28 %             2.09 %  
                                   
                                   
    Net interest margin (net interest income to                              
    total interest earning assets)           2.71 %             2.53 %  
    DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS, LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY –
    INTEREST RATES AND INTEREST DIFFERENTIAL, Continued
                                     
    (dollars in thousands)                                
    (Unaudited) Six Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
      June 30, 2025     June 30, 2024  
      Average   Interest       Average     Average   Interest     Average  
      Balance           Rate     Balance         Rate  
    Assets                                
                                     
    Securities available for sale:                                
    U. S. government sponsored enterprises $ 74,071       1,210       3.27 %   $ 119,908       1,815       3.03 %
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                                
    obligations – residential   242,083       3,096       2.56       254,665       2,945       2.31  
    State and political subdivisions   18       –       6.77       26       1       6.82  
    Corporate bonds   32,823       470       2.86       64,345       838       2.60  
    Small Business Administration – guaranteed                                
    participation securities   14,540       156       2.15       17,830       194       2.18  
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                                
    obligations – commercial   –                     –       –       –  
    Other   698       15       4.30       695       5       1.44  
                                     
    Total securities available for sale   364,233       4,947       2.72       457,469       5,798       2.53  
                                     
    Federal funds sold and other short-term Investments   631,148       13,944       4.46       502,072       13,644       5.47  
                                     
    Held to maturity securities:                                
    Mortgage backed securities and collateralized mortgage                                
    obligations – residential   5,101       111       4.35       6,192       133       4.29  
                                     
    Total held to maturity securities   5,101       111       4.35       6,192       133       4.29  
                                     
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock   6,549       280       8.55       6,271       299       9.54  
                                     
    Commercial loans   302,173       8,426       5.58       278,871       7,425       5.33  
    Residential mortgage loans   4,386,418       85,851       3.92       4,359,351       81,236       3.73  
    Home equity lines of credit   421,498       13,265       6.35       358,607       11,277       6.32  
    Installment loans   12,744       465       7.36       15,761       526       6.72  
                                     
    Loans, net of unearned income   5,122,833       108,007       4.22       5,012,590       100,464       4.01  
                                     
    Total interest earning assets   6,129,864       127,289       4.16       5,984,594       120,338       4.03  
                                     
    Allowance for credit losses on loans   (50,627 )                   (49,139 )            
    Cash & non-interest earning assets   202,590                     188,364              
                                     
                                     
    Total assets $ 6,281,827                   $ 6,123,819              
                                     
                                     
    Liabilities and shareholders’ equity                                
                                     
    Deposits:                                
    Interest bearing checking accounts $ 1,038,733       1,094       0.21 %   $ 999,589       528       0.11 %
    Money market accounts   469,952       4,075       1.75       534,378       4,570       1.72  
    Savings   1,088,408       1,467       0.27       1,152,241       1,387       0.24  
    Time deposits   2,069,998       38,178       3.72       1,881,535       39,077       4.18  
                                     
    Total interest bearing deposits   4,667,091       44,814       1.94       4,567,743       45,562       2.01  
    Short-term borrowings   82,125       356       0.87       93,510       410       0.88  
                                     
    Total interest bearing liabilities   4,749,216       45,170       1.92       4,661,253       45,972       1.98  
                                     
    Demand deposits   769,923                     730,781              
    Other liabilities   76,308                     83,105              
    Shareholders’ equity   686,380                     648,680              
                                     
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 6,281,827                   $ 6,123,819              
                                     
    Net interest income       82,119                   74,366          
                                     
    Net interest spread             2.24 %             2.05 %
                                     
                                     
    Net interest margin (net interest income to                                
    total interest earning assets)             2.68 %             2.48 %

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures Reconciliation

    Tangible book value per share is a non-GAAP financial measure derived from GAAP-based amounts. We calculate tangible book value by excluding the balance of intangible assets from total shareholders’ equity divided by shares outstanding. We believe that this is consistent with the treatment by bank regulatory agencies, which exclude intangible assets from the calculation of risk-based capital ratios. Additionally, we believe that this measure is important to many investors in the marketplace who are interested in relative changes from period to period in equity exclusive of changes in intangible assets.

    Tangible equity as a percentage of tangible assets at period end is a non-GAAP financial measure derived from GAAP-based amounts. We calculate tangible equity and tangible assets by excluding the balance of intangible assets from total shareholders’ equity and total assets, respectively. We calculate tangible equity as a percentage of tangible assets at period end by dividing tangible equity by tangible assets at period end. We believe that this is consistent with the treatment by bank regulatory agencies, which exclude intangible assets from the calculation of risk-based capital ratios. Additionally, we believe that this measure is important to many investors in the marketplace who are interested in relative changes from period to period in equity and total assets, each exclusive of changes in intangible assets.

    Adjusted efficiency ratio is a non-GAAP measures of expense control relative to revenue from net interest income and non-interest fee income. We calculate the efficiency ratio by dividing total non-interest expense by the sum of net interest income and total non-interest income. We calculate the adjusted efficiency ratio by dividing total noninterest expenses as determined under GAAP, excluding other real estate expense, net, by net interest income and total noninterest income as determined under GAAP, excluding net gains on equity securities. We believe that this provides a reasonable measure of primary banking expenses relative to primary banking revenue. Additionally, we believe this measure is important to investors looking for a measure of efficiency in our productivity measured by the amount of revenue generated for each dollar spent.

    We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures provide information that is important to investors and that is useful in understanding our financial results. Our management internally assesses our performance based, in part, on these measures. However, these non-GAAP financial measures are supplemental and not a substitute for an analysis based on GAAP measures. As other companies may use different calculations for these measures, this presentation may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures reported by other companies. A reconciliation of the non-GAAP measures of tangible book value to shares outstanding, tangible equity as a percentage of tangible assets, and efficiency ratio to the most directly comparable GAAP measures is set forth below.  

    NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES RECONCILIATION              
                   
    (dollars in thousands)              
    (Unaudited)              
        6/30/2025   3/31/2025   6/30/2024      
    Tangible Book Value Per Share              
                   
    Equity (GAAP)   $ 692,805     $ 687,808     $ 655,168        
    Less: Intangible assets     553       553       553        
    Tangible equity (Non-GAAP)   $ 692,252     $ 687,255     $ 654,615        
                   
    Shares outstanding     18,851       19,020       19,010        
    Tangible book value per share     36.72       36.13       34.44        
    Book value per share     36.75       36.16       34.46        
                   
    Tangible Equity to Tangible Assets              
    Total Assets (GAAP)   $ 6,348,375     $ 6,338,545     $ 6,106,644        
    Less: Intangible assets     553       553       553        
    Tangible assets (Non-GAAP)   $ 6,347,822     $ 6,337,992     $ 6,106,091        
                   
    Consolidated Equity to Assets (GAAP)     10.91 %     10.85 %     10.73 %      
    Consolidated Tangible Equity to Tangible Assets (Non-GAAP)     10.91 %     10.84 %     10.72 %      
                   
        Three months ended   Six Months Ended
    Efficiency and Adjusted Efficiency Ratios   6/30/2025 3/31/2025 6/30/2024   6/30/2025     6/30/2024  
    Net interest income (GAAP) A $ 41,746     $ 40,373     $ 37,788     $ 82,119     $ 74,366  
    Non-interest income (GAAP) B   4,852       4,974       5,651       9,826       10,494  
    Less: Net gains on equity securities     –       –       1,360       –       1,360  
    Revenue used for efficiency ratio (Non-GAAP) C $ 46,598     $ 45,347     $ 42,079     $ 91,945     $ 83,500  
                   
    Total noninterest expense (GAAP) D $ 26,223     $ 26,329     $ 26,459     $ 52,552     $ 51,362  
    Less: Other real estate expense, net E   522       28       16       550       90  
    Expense used for efficiency ratio (Non-GAAP) F $ 25,701     $ 26,301     $ 26,443     $ 52,002     $ 51,272  
                   
    Efficiency Ratio (GAAP) D/(A+B)   56.27 %     58.06 %     60.91 %     57.16 %     60.53 %
    Adjusted Efficiency Ratio (Non-GAAP) F/C   55.15 %     58.00 %     62.84 %     56.56 %     61.40 %

    Subsidiary: Trustco Bank

    Contact: Robert Leonard
      Executive Vice President
      (518) 381-3693

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Cosponsors Bill to Label Muslim Brotherhood a Foreign Terrorist Organization

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) cosponsored the Muslim Brotherhood Terrorist Designation Act, which would direct the U.S. Secretary of State to designate the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist group:

    “Hamas – who is responsible for the mass murder of more than 1,200 civilians in the brutal attack against Israel on October 7 – openly identifies as a branch of the Muslim Brotherhood,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This bill rightfully directs the Secretary of State to designate the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization and imposes strict sanctions against them and their proxies who chant ‘death to America,’ sending a clear message that their anti-western agenda and threats to the American people and our allies will not be tolerated.”

    Background:

    The Muslim Brotherhood is a transnational Islamist organization that supports a wide array of regional affiliates, including groups actively engaged in terrorism. Hamas, already designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) by the United States, openly identifies as a branch of the Muslim Brotherhood. Other branches, such as HASM and Liwa al-Thawra, have been linked to the Muslim Brotherhood by the U.S. Department of State and designated as Specially Designated Global Terrorists. Muslim Brotherhood branches have also been implicated in planning or supporting attacks in Jordan and are outlawed as terrorist groups by Austria, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Several European countries are evaluating similar measures.

    The bill modernizes previous efforts by shifting to a bottom-up approach, requiring the U.S. Secretary of State to record and evaluate individual Muslim Brotherhood branches annually, designate those that meet terrorism criteria, and impose sanctions accordingly. This is modeled after the successful approach taken to designate Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in 2017.

    The Muslim Brotherhood Terrorist Designation Act would:

    • Designate the Muslim Brotherhood under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1987;
    • Require the U.S. Secretary of State to report annually on Muslim Brotherhood branches and assess their designation eligibility under FTO or SDGT authorities;
    • Mandate sanctions against the global Muslim Brotherhood and any branch found to meet terrorism criteria; and
    • Impose visa restrictions and immigration ineligibility on identified members.

    The Muslim Brotherhood Terrorist Designation Act, led by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), was cosponsored by Sens. Tom Cotton (R-AR), John Boozman (R-AR.), Rick Scott (R-FL), Ashley Moody (R-FL), and Dave McCormick (R-PA).

    The legislation is endorsed by FDD Action, Christians United for Israel Action Fund, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), and the Republican Jewish Coalition.

    Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney meets with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, met with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan during His Majesty’s visit to Canada. This was their first in-person meeting since the Prime Minister took office.

    Prime Minister Carney welcomed His Majesty King Abdullah II to Ottawa. The leaders underscored the long-standing partnership between Canada and Jordan, including in trade, defence, and security. They discussed opportunities to strengthen bilateral commerce and investment as Canada diversifies its trade partners and builds a stronger economy.

    To that end, Prime Minister Carney announced that Canada will allocate $28.4 million to support border security and development efforts in Jordan. This includes helping Jordanian security forces protect against terrorism and transnational crime, using Canadian steel to repair border infrastructure, and reducing global pressures by assisting with education, health, and job creation for refugees.

    The Prime Minister and His Majesty also discussed the situation in the Middle East, including the imperative of a ceasefire in Gaza, called for urgent, life-saving humanitarian aid to reach civilians, and the imperative for stability in Syria.

    His Majesty King Abdullah II thanked Prime Minister Carney for his hospitality, and the leaders looked forward to remaining in close contact.

    Associated links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UK: Government must ‘show real backbone’ and act now to end Gaza genocide – Amnesty response to Foreign Ministers’ statement

    Source: Amnesty International –

    In response to David Lammy and other Foreign Ministers’ statement on the genocide in Gaza, Kristyan Benedict, Amnesty International UK’s Crisis Response Manager, said:

    “These are empty words from the Foreign Secretary – the statement lacks any resolve, leadership or action to help end the crisis in Gaza.

    “More than two months ago the UK said it would take ‘concrete action’ if Israel did not change course. Instead, the situation has only deteriorated, and all we’ve seen are more hollow assurances. The UK government cannot continue to stand by as this genocide unfolds before our eyes. It’s unbearable, unconscionable and a living nightmare for Palestinians.

    “Government inaction and its failure to take robust measures to prevent genocide is no   accident. As a state party to the Genocide Convention, the UK has a legal duty to prevent and punish genocide – a duty it is failing miserably to uphold.

    “The UK government must show real backbone by immediately halting all arms exports to Israel – whether direct or indirect – including components for F-35 fighter jets. It must also use every political, legal, and diplomatic tool at its disposal to help end Israel’s genocide, dismantle its apartheid regime, and bring the illegal occupation to an end.

    “Without decisive action, the relentless assault on Palestinians will escalate further, with even more devastating consequences.”

    View latest press releases

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) Statement on the Peace Agreement Between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Congo River Alliance/M23

    Source: APO


    .

    Africa CDC welcomes the signing of the Declaration of Principles on 19 July 2025 between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Congo River Alliance/M23. Africa CDC echoes the appreciation expressed by H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, and applaud the political courage of all parties for choosing dialogue over confrontation, declaring a ceasefire, and embracing a future built on stability.

    Africa CDC expresses profound gratitude to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and the State of Qatar, as well as to President Donald Trump and the Government of the United States, for their unwavering support to the Doha and Washington processes. We equally commend the tireless leadership of H.E. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, Chairperson of the African Union and Champion for Peace and Reconciliation, and H.E. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of Togo and AU-appointed Mediator for the Great Lakes. Africa CDC salutes the determination of President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi and President Paul Kagame to steer the region toward a future of peace.

    Between 2022 and 2024, Africa experienced a 41% surge in public health emergencies, with the eastern DRC and Great Lakes region at the epicenter—battling recurring outbreaks of Mpox, cholera, Marburg virus, Ebola, and measles. These crises have been compounded by 30 years of violence, insecurity, and displacement.

    As the African autonomous public health agency, Africa CDC has consistently called for peace, including in a letter to African Heads of State on 1 February 2025 urging urgent action to safeguard lives and restore stability in the region. https://africacdc.org/news-item/africa-cdc-urges-immediate-action-to-protect-lives-amid-escalatinghealth-and-security-crises/

    Africa CDC reaffirms that peace and health are inextricably linked. A comprehensive health component must be fully embedded in the Doha and Washington processes, ensuring the safe return of displaced populations, the restoration of essential health services, the access of essential commodities, the strengthening of disease surveillance, and the rebuilding of local health systems. Mandated by the African Union Heads of State, Africa CDC stands ready to support the implementation of the health pillar of the Doha and Washington agreements in full partnership with African governments, Qatar, the United States, and all other partners and stakeholders. As we mark this historic step, Africa CDC joins the call for global recognition of this remarkable diplomatic milestone. If this process yields lasting peace, the people of Africa will remember the leadership and courage of President Donald Trump and His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, who chose to bring hope to a region that has endured unimaginable suffering for far too long.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/SOUTH AFRICA – Gaza: Southern African bishops reaffirm their support for the South African government’s genocide complaint

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Johannesburg (Agenzia Fides) – The Southern African bishops re-affirmed their full support of South Africa’s legal case against Israel at the International Criminal Court (ICJ), which accuses Israel of genocide against the population of Gaza.In a statement published in the aftermath of the bombing of the Holy Family Church compound in Gaza, which left three dead and at least nine wounded (see Fides, 17/7/2025), the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC), which brings together the bishops of South Africa, Botswana, and Eswatini, recalled that Israel’s response to the massacre perpetrated by Hamas on October 7, 2023, “is now widely recognized throughout the world as genocide and ethnic cleansing.””We share that assessment and so have given our support to the South African government’s case at the ICJ in The Hague accusing Israel of perpetrating acts of genocide,” the SACBC bishops state in the statement signed by their president, Cardinal Stephen Brislin, Archbishop of Cape Town.The members of the SACBC explain that they hoped the action taken by the South African government would serve “as a peaceful means of pressuring the parties to the conflict to stop the spiral of violence.” “This has not been the case,” they note, highlighting the responsibility of those who continue to send weapons: “The many countries that continue to supply arms and support the rhetoric of war have become accomplices in what history will undoubtedly record as a ‘crime against humanity.’””Therefore, we raise our voices to protest against the ongoing genocide, and we join Pope Leo XIV in calling for a lasting ceasefire and the release of all hostages, including those in administrative detention,” the bishops urge.”Our prayers and solidarity must be accompanied by actions,” they conclude, calling for “non-violent action, boycotts in various sectors, active protest, and denunciation of the spread of war throughout the Middle East.” (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 21/7/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/SOUTH AFRICA – Gaza: Southern African bishops reaffirm their support for the South African government’s genocide complaint

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Johannesburg (Agenzia Fides) – The Southern African bishops re-affirmed their full support of South Africa’s legal case against Israel at the International Criminal Court (ICJ), which accuses Israel of genocide against the population of Gaza.In a statement published in the aftermath of the bombing of the Holy Family Church compound in Gaza, which left three dead and at least nine wounded (see Fides, 17/7/2025), the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC), which brings together the bishops of South Africa, Botswana, and Eswatini, recalled that Israel’s response to the massacre perpetrated by Hamas on October 7, 2023, “is now widely recognized throughout the world as genocide and ethnic cleansing.””We share that assessment and so have given our support to the South African government’s case at the ICJ in The Hague accusing Israel of perpetrating acts of genocide,” the SACBC bishops state in the statement signed by their president, Cardinal Stephen Brislin, Archbishop of Cape Town.The members of the SACBC explain that they hoped the action taken by the South African government would serve “as a peaceful means of pressuring the parties to the conflict to stop the spiral of violence.” “This has not been the case,” they note, highlighting the responsibility of those who continue to send weapons: “The many countries that continue to supply arms and support the rhetoric of war have become accomplices in what history will undoubtedly record as a ‘crime against humanity.’””Therefore, we raise our voices to protest against the ongoing genocide, and we join Pope Leo XIV in calling for a lasting ceasefire and the release of all hostages, including those in administrative detention,” the bishops urge.”Our prayers and solidarity must be accompanied by actions,” they conclude, calling for “non-violent action, boycotts in various sectors, active protest, and denunciation of the spread of war throughout the Middle East.” (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 21/7/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/DR CONGO – A declaration of principles was signed in Doha between the Congolese government and the M23 to end the war

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) – The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the M23/Congo River Alliance (AFC) guerrillas signed a declaration of principles on July 19 in Doha, Qatar, to end the war in the east of the country.”The parties reaffirm their commitment to a permanent ceasefire, which includes the prohibition of attacks of any kind, the dissemination of hate propaganda or incitement to violence, and any attempt to seize or modify positions by force on the ground,” states the document signed by both parties. Furthermore, the signing of the final peace agreement is scheduled for August 17, also in Doha.The Doha Declaration follows the agreement signed in Washington on June 27 between the Congolese government and the Rwandan government, sponsor of the AFC/M23 (see Fides, 27/6/2025).The United States and Qatar have coordinated their diplomacy with the aim of ending 30 years of war in eastern DRC, a conflict that worsened in 2021 with the resumption of hostilities by the M23, the strongest and most organized of the nearly 100 armed groups operating in the region.The intervention of President Trump’s administration aspires to win the Nobel Peace Prize by mediating this and other conflicts around the world: as the Congolese newspaper Le Potentiel points out, the United States “without firing a single shot, gains strategic access to a significant portion of Congo’s minerals in exchange for a promise of peace. A peace that is paid for, vague, and lacking a true transformative impulse for the populations.”In fact, as Fides reported after the signing of the Washington agreements, the population of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, currently occupied by M23 troops, is still waiting for concrete signs that would give them hope that peace will become a reality (see Fides, 1/7/2025). (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 21/7/2025)
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  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/DR CONGO – A declaration of principles was signed in Doha between the Congolese government and the M23 to end the war

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) – The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the M23/Congo River Alliance (AFC) guerrillas signed a declaration of principles on July 19 in Doha, Qatar, to end the war in the east of the country.”The parties reaffirm their commitment to a permanent ceasefire, which includes the prohibition of attacks of any kind, the dissemination of hate propaganda or incitement to violence, and any attempt to seize or modify positions by force on the ground,” states the document signed by both parties. Furthermore, the signing of the final peace agreement is scheduled for August 17, also in Doha.The Doha Declaration follows the agreement signed in Washington on June 27 between the Congolese government and the Rwandan government, sponsor of the AFC/M23 (see Fides, 27/6/2025).The United States and Qatar have coordinated their diplomacy with the aim of ending 30 years of war in eastern DRC, a conflict that worsened in 2021 with the resumption of hostilities by the M23, the strongest and most organized of the nearly 100 armed groups operating in the region.The intervention of President Trump’s administration aspires to win the Nobel Peace Prize by mediating this and other conflicts around the world: as the Congolese newspaper Le Potentiel points out, the United States “without firing a single shot, gains strategic access to a significant portion of Congo’s minerals in exchange for a promise of peace. A peace that is paid for, vague, and lacking a true transformative impulse for the populations.”In fact, as Fides reported after the signing of the Washington agreements, the population of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, currently occupied by M23 troops, is still waiting for concrete signs that would give them hope that peace will become a reality (see Fides, 1/7/2025). (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 21/7/2025)
    Share:

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: The main factor in the growth of exports from Georgia in the first half of 2025 was the re-export of passenger cars

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Tbilisi, July 21 (Xinhua) — Georgia’s exports amounted to $3.2 billion in the first half of 2025, up 13 percent year-on-year, the National Statistics Office of Georgia reported on Monday.

    According to published data, the main factor behind the growth was the active re-export of passenger cars, the volume of which increased by 30 percent year-on-year and reached $1.2 billion.

    In terms of total exports, Kyrgyzstan remains Georgia’s largest sales market for the second year in a row. Exports to this country totaled $681 million, up 50 percent from the first half of last year. Kazakhstan ranked second with $414 million, and Azerbaijan third with $342 million.

    As for the export of goods of Georgian origin, it increased by 6.4 percent year-on-year, amounting to $1.473 billion. The largest markets for Georgian goods in the first half of 2025 were Russia /310.6 million dollars/, China /162.3 million dollars/ and Turkey /150.4 million dollars/. The main export goods were ferroalloys, mineral and fresh waters, carbonated drinks containing sugar, wine, nitrogen fertilizers, packaged medicines, as well as unprocessed and semi-processed gold. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

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  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran announces new round of talks with EU3 in Istanbul on July 25

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    TEHRAN, July 21 (Xinhua) — Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said on Monday that a new round of talks between Tehran and the E3 group, comprising France, Britain and Germany, is planned to be held in Istanbul, Turkey on July 25.

    The official said the talks would focus on lifting sanctions on Iran and issues related to the Iranian nuclear programme, with Tehran set out its demands “in all seriousness”. The meeting would be at deputy foreign minister level and would be attended by the EU deputy high representative for foreign affairs and security policy.

    E. Baghaei criticized the three European countries that signed the 2015 nuclear deal for their “inappropriate” stance and silence in the face of Israel’s recent military “aggression” against Iran. The Iranian diplomat said these countries should be held accountable for their stance.

    He also mentioned the E3’s threats to trigger the sanctions snapback mechanism, stressing that resorting to it is “senseless, illegal and immoral.”

    The sanctions snapback mechanism is part of the Iran nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). It allows other parties to reimpose all international sanctions if Iran fails to comply with the agreement.

    Iran and the EU3 have held six rounds of talks since September last year, when delegations began dialogue on a range of issues including Tehran’s nuclear program and sanctions relief on the sidelines of the annual UN General Assembly session in New York. The latest round took place in Istanbul in mid-May.

    In July 2015, Iran signed the JCPOA with six countries – Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States. Under the deal, Tehran agreed to curb its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Belarusian Parliament has declared its focus on building a strategic partnership with Iran

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    MINSK, July 21 /Xinhua/ — Belarus aims to build a strategic partnership with Iran, Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives (lower house of parliament) of Belarus Vadim Ipatov said on Monday during a meeting in Minsk with the Iranian parliamentary delegation led by the head of the working group of the Islamic Consultative Assembly of Iran on cooperation with the National Assembly of Belarus Aliasghar Bagherzadeh. The relevant information was published by BELTA.

    V. Ipatov noted that Belarus views Iran as an important partner in the region, an authoritative participant in international relations, and strives to establish a strategic partnership. “We have a common understanding of the processes taking place in the world and a desire to form a fair multipolar world order,” the deputy chairman of the lower house of the Belarusian parliament emphasized.

    He recalled that the two countries signed a Roadmap for comprehensive cooperation for 2023-2026 and proposed concentrating bilateral efforts on its implementation.

    In turn, A. Bagherzade stated that Iran is interested in developing relations with Belarus in all areas. “Since a free trade agreement was signed between Iran and the Eurasian Economic Union, and Iran is an observer in this union, very good additional opportunities for interaction with the union member countries, in particular with Belarus, are emerging,” he noted. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Evacuation Order Limits UN’s Ability to Deliver Aid in Gaza, Secretary-General warns

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    SG/SM/22734

    The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

    The Secretary-General is appalled by the accelerating breakdown of humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where the last lifelines keeping people alive are collapsing.

    He deplores the growing reports of children and adults suffering from malnutrition.

    The Secretary-General strongly condemns the ongoing violence, including the shooting, killing and injuring of people attempting to get food for their families.

    Civilians must be protected and respected, and they must never be targeted.  The population in Gaza remains gravely undersupplied with the basic necessities of life.

    Israel has the obligation to allow and facilitate by all the means at its disposal the humanitarian relief provided by the United Nations and by other humanitarian organizations.

    The Secretary-General notes that the intensification of hostilities in recent days comes as the humanitarian system is being impeded, undermined and endangered.

    A new evacuation order in parts of Deir al Balah — home to tens of thousands — pushes people into more desperate conditions and further displacement and restricts the United Nations’ ability to deliver life-saving aid.  UN staff remain in Deir al Balah, and two UN guesthouses have been struck, despite parties having been informed of the locations of UN premises, which are inviolable.  These locations — as with all civilian sites — must be protected, regardless of evacuation orders.

    The Secretary-General reiterates his urgent call for the protection of civilians, including humanitarian personnel, and for the provision of essential resources to ensure their survival.

    He once again calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

    The UN stands ready to significantly scale up our humanitarian operations.  The time for a ceasefire is now.

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Advancing women’s health – E-002864/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002864/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Michalis Hadjipantela (PPE)

    The promotion of women’s health and fertility rights across the European Union is undoubtedly a core aspect of public health policy and gender equality. The Commission’s 2025 report entitled ‘EU research on advancing women’s health’[1] highlights that over EUR 2 billion has been invested in research related to women’s health under Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe. Despite this promising investment, chronic conditions such as endometriosis, which affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, remain undiagnosed and underfunded in many Member States, including Cyprus.

    In Cyprus, women continue to face significant barriers in accessing timely diagnoses and effective treatment for gynaecological conditions such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, both of which are linked to fertility issues. Also, public health data collection, awareness campaigns and fertility support services remain limited.

    Can the Commission therefore clarify:

    • 1.What specific EU funding sources are currently available or planned to support women’s health and fertility, particularly in Cyprus?
    • 2.What proportion of this funding targets endometriosis research, treatment and awareness?
    • 3.What steps is the Commission taking to ensure that EU-level research and funding are translated into tangible improvements in healthcare provision for women in Cyprus?

    Submitted: 14.7.2025

    • [1] https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/43771686-4a5c-11f0-85ba-01aa75ed71a1/language-en.
    Last updated: 21 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Gaza: Guterres condemns killing of people seeking food as humanitarian conditions deteriorate

    Source: United Nations 2

    Stéphane Dujarric was speaking to reporters at UN Headquarters in New York a day after dozens of Palestinians were killed seeking food aid.

    He said the Secretary-General deplored the growing reports of both children and adults suffering from malnutrition and strongly condemned the ongoing violence, including the shooting, killing and injuring of people attempting to get food.

    Not a target

    “Civilians must be protected and respected, and they must never be targeted,” said Mr. Dujarric, noting that the population in Gaza remains gravely undersupplied with the basic necessities of life.

    He stressed that “Israel has the obligation to allow and facilitate by all the means at its disposal the humanitarian relief provided by the United Nations and other humanitarian organizations.” 

    Mr. Dujarric said the Secretary-General noted that the recent intensification of hostilities comes as the humanitarian system in Gaza is being impeded, undermined and endangered.

    New evacuation orders

    He pointed to a new evacuation order issued for parts of Deir Al-Balah, which is pushing people into more desperate conditions and sparking further displacement, while restricting the UN’s ability to deliver aid.

    He reported that two UN guesthouses in Deir Al-Balah were struck, despite the parties being informed about their locations. 

    “They suffered damage,” he said, responding a reporter’s question. “The UN staff inside was, to say the least, rattled.”

    Mr. Dujarric underscored that the UN intends to remain in Deir Al-Balah.

     Ceasefire now

    The Secretary-General reiterated his urgent call for the protection of civilians, including humanitarian personnel, and for the provision of essential resources to ensure their survival.

    He once again called for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

    Mr. Dujarric said the UN stands ready to significantly scale up its humanitarian operations in Gaza, adding “the time for a ceasefire is now.” 

    More to follow…

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK pledges lifesaving aid for Gaza

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK pledges lifesaving aid for Gaza

    Tens of thousands of civilians in Gaza will receive additional humanitarian aid funded by the UK government.

    • UK government announces new £60m humanitarian aid package to support healthcare, food and water.
    • Includes vital funding to treat patients at UK-Med field hospitals in Gaza
    • Aid package will help provide emergency food, shelter and support for over 2 million people

    Tens of thousands of civilians in Gaza will receive additional humanitarian aid funded by the UK government.  

    In a statement to Parliament, the Foreign Secretary David Lammy outlined that food assistance programmes, water and sanitation services and maternal and children’s healthcare will be scaled up through this new £60 million funding.  

    This will include continued support to two field hospitals in Gaza run by UK-Med. UK-Med are a frontline medical organisation deployed to crises who have now treated over 500,000 Gazans over the course of the conflict. 24,000 of these were in the past fortnight alone, with UK-Med treating a range of medical conditions as well as injuries related to the conflict.   

    This announcement also includes £20 million in support for UNRWA’s essential services for Palestinian refugees. This funding will provide emergency food, shelter and other support for over 2 million people, as well support UNRWA’s wider work across the region. UNWRA’s work in Gaza ensures water provision reaches up to 600,000 people monthly across Gaza. 

    Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: 

    UK aid has been saving lives and under the most appalling circumstances, it is saving lives today.

    Today I am announcing extra humanitarian assistance in Gaza to support tens of thousands of civilians that are urgently in need this year. This includes supporting UK-Med to sustain the vital operations they perform right now in Gaza. 

    The suffering of civilians in Gaza has reached new depths – almost 1000 civilians have been killed since May seeking aid. We continue to call for, work for, and vote for an immediate ceasefire and the release of the hostages at every possible opportunity. We will keep doing so until this war is over.

    UK-Med CEO David Wightwick said:

    I have never seen a crisis of this scale and severity, and it has only deteriorated in recent months.

    UK Government funding is vital in supporting UK-Med to deliver over 500,000 patient consultations in Gaza during this conflict.

    I want to thank our 400-strong team on the ground for their determination, professionalism and tireless work to address the medical needs of Gazans in incredibly difficult circumstances.

    This announcement is part of the £101 million of Official Development Assistance the UK has committed to the OPTs this financial year. It demonstrates the UK’s commitment to playing a leading role in alleviating Palestinian suffering and building security, in support of the government’s Plan for Change.   

    The Foreign Secretary reflected on the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza in his statement and thanked medics and humanitarian workers for the work they are doing in the most difficult and dangerous circumstances.  

    He said the new aid system in Gaza – which has seen almost 900 people killed since May while seeking food and water – was creating further disorder for Hamas to exploit.

    The Foreign Secretary reiterated his complete condemnation of the Israeli defence minister’s plan for the forcible displacement of Gaza’s entire population into Rafah, with the potential for deportation.

    The UK also announced £7m of support to strengthen governance in the OPTs, including supporting the Palestinian Authority’s delivery of their reform agenda. 

    The UK continues to push for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, a surge in aid and a path towards long-term peace and security for Israelis and Palestinians.

    Background: 

    ·       This £60m funding is part of the UK’s £101m programme for the Occupied Palestinian Territories this year. 

    ·       Of this, £7.5m will go to UK-Med to operate their two field hospitals  

    ·       £20m for UNRWA to support their essential services for Palestinian refugees 

    ·       £7m will go to strengthen governance, accountability and civic space in the OPTs, including supporting the PA’s delivery of their reform agenda. 

    ·       Please see the Foreign Secretary’s statement to parliament: Foreign Secretary statement on the Middle East, 21 July 2025 

    ·       Please see the joint statement on behalf of 26 partners on the OPTs: Occupied Palestinian Territories: joint statement, 21 July 2025 – GOV.UK

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

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

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dingell Demands Answers from State Department Following Israel Strike on Catholic Church in Gaza

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

    Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) today sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressing deep concern and urging further action to pursue a ceasefire following a strike by the Israeli military on the only Catholic Parish in Gaza.

    “This strike killed civilian Najwa Abu Daoud and led to the deaths of civilians Saad Salameh and Fumayya Ayyad. It also injured Gabriel Romanelli, who is the parish priest, who received daily calls from the late Pope Francis until he died,” Dingell wrote. “Incidents like this raise urgent and serious questions about the protection of places of worship in conflict zones, the role and effectiveness of humanitarian aid, and the pressing need to pursue a ceasefire to prevent further harm to civilians.”

    “This tragedy again reminds us of the dire need for humanitarian aid in Gaza. It is reported that Saad Salameh and Fumayya Ayyad, who initially survived the strike, succumbed to their injuries at Al-Mamadani hospital,” Dingell continued. “I am concerned deaths like these are being exacerbated by a lack of medical resources and blood units. In the last few months, little to no aid has entered the region due to Israel’s blockade. A ceasefire is critical not only to protect innocent lives but also to enable unimpeded humanitarian access and pave the way for long-term peace efforts in the region.”

    “In light of these developments, I request information on how the State Department is taking action to prevent places of worship from being targeted,” Dingell concluded. “Additionally, it is essential to clarify how the United States is monitoring and ensuring that military equipment supplied by the U.S. is not being used in ways that violate international humanitarian law, especially with regard to attacks on civilian or religious locations. Transparency and accountability in this regard are vital to upholding human rights and international norms.”

    Specifically, Dingell requested answers to the following questions:

    1. What has the State Department done to increase the flow of medical supplies within the Gaza Strip?
    2. What is the U.S doing to prevent civilian casualties and strikes on places of worship?
    3. Is there a discussion between the U.S and the Israeli government on protecting places of worship within the Gaza Strip?
    4. What is the administration doing to ensure U.S military aid to Israel is not being used to against civilians and places of worship, like the Holy Family Church?
    5. What initiatives is the United States undertaking to advocate for an immediate and lasting cessation of hostilities?

    View the full text of the letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Death toll in Gaza exceeds 59,000: health ministry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    GAZA, July 21 (Xinhua) — The number of Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip since the conflict began on October 7, 2023 has exceeded 59,000, the health authority based in the Palestinian enclave said on Monday.

    The ministry’s press release stated that a total of 59,029 Palestinians have been killed and another 142,135 injured in Israel’s ongoing military operations.

    Since March 18, 8,196 deaths and 30,094 wounded have been recorded, reflecting an escalation in fighting in previous weeks, the report said.

    According to the latest figures, 134 bodies have been delivered to hospitals in the Gaza Strip in the past 24 hours. In addition, 1,155 people have been injured to varying degrees of severity as a result of ongoing airstrikes and shelling over the past 24 hours. The ministry warned that the figures could rise as many victims are still under rubble.

    The UN and a number of regional organizations have repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of internationally monitored humanitarian corridors, but efforts to find a sustainable humanitarian solution have so far failed to produce results. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Foreign Secretary statement on the Middle East, 21 July 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Oral statement to Parliament

    Foreign Secretary statement on the Middle East, 21 July 2025

    The Foreign Secretary made a statement to parliament on the Middle East

    With permission, Mr Deputy Speaker, I would like to make a statement on the Middle East.

    I’ll begin on Syria.

    We have been horrified by the recent violence in the south, including civilian deaths.

    Clashes between Druze and Bedouin militias have quickly escalated into intense fighting between government forces and further Israeli strikes on the Syrian military.

    As I said directly to Foreign Minister Shaibani we want to see the fighting ended, civilians protected and the rights of all Syrians upheld.

    The violence in Suwayda must be investigated and those responsible held accountable.

    We want humanitarian access to be restored, aid delivered and Syria’s sovereignty must be respected. 

    The UK can be proud of our support to the Syrian people over many, many years.

    And a stable Syria matters to the UK’s national interest, for terrorism, for irregular migration, for regional stability.

    We must work to prevent extremism, sectarianism or lawlessness taking hold now that Assad is gone.

    That’s why we are backing a sustainable ceasefire and that is why we support an inclusive transition.

    And that’s why I visited Damascus recently to support and to press the new government to meet its commitments.

    I will now turn to the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

    It’s two and a half months since Prime Minister Netanyahu restarted offensive operations.

    The IDF has driven Palestinians out of 86 per cent of Gaza, leaving around two million people trapped in an area scarcely over twenty square miles.

    Whatever this Israeli government might claim, repeated displacement of so many civilians is not keeping them safe. In fact, it’s quite the reverse.

    Mr Deputy Speaker, the new Israeli aid system is inhumane, it’s dangerous and it deprives Gazans of human dignity.

    It contradicts long-stablished humanitarian principles. It creates disorder Hamas is exploiting with distribution points reduced from 400 to just four.

    It forces desperate civilians, children among them, to scramble unsafely for the essentials of life.

    It’s a grotesque spectacle, wreaking a terrible human cost.

    Almost 1000 civilians have been killed since May seeking aid, including 100 over this weekend alone.

    There are near daily reports of Israeli troops opening fire on people trying to access food.

    Israeli jets have hit women and children waiting for a health clinic to open.

    An Israeli drone has struck down children filling water containers which Israeli officials blamed on a ‘technical error’.

    Hamas is contributing to the chaos and taking advantage of it.

    I utterly condemn the killing of civilians seeking to meet their most basic needs.

    The Israeli government must answer:

    What possible military justification can there be for strikes that have killed desperate, starving children?

    What immediate actions are they taking to stop this litany of horrors?

    What will they do to hold those responsible to account?

    Mr Deputy Speaker, I have said before I am a steadfast supporter of Israel’s security and right to exist.

    I treasure the many connections between our peoples

    And the horrors of October 7th must never be forgotten.

    But I firmly believe the Israeli government’s actions are doing untold damage to Israel’s standing in the world and undermining Israel’s long-term security.

    Netanyahu should listen to the Israeli people, 82 per cent of whom desperately want a ceasefire.

    And to the hostages’ families because they know it offers the best chance to bring their loved ones home.

    Those hostages may be hidden in cramped tunnels under the ruins of Gaza but we will not forget them or Hamas’s despicable actions and we will continue to demand their unconditional release.

    This offensive puts them in grave danger.

    But still Netanyahu persists.

    Indeed, Minister Katz has gone further proposing to drive Gaza’s entire population into Rafah, imprisoning Palestinians, unless persuaded to emigrate.

    Mr Deputy Speaker, this is a cruel vision which must never come to pass.

    I condemn it unequivocally.

    Permanent forced displacement is a violation of international humanitarian law.

    Many Israelis themselves are appalled.

    A former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak said ‘it marches us into the abyss’. He was right.

    Mr Speaker, today I joined a joint statement by 25 Foreign Ministers with a simple, urgent message:

    the war in Gaza must end now.

    There is no military solution.

    Negotiations will secure the hostages.

    Further bloodshed serves no purpose. 

    Hamas and Israel must both commit to a ceasefire now. 

    And the next ceasefire must be the last ceasefire.

    I thank the US, Qatar, and Egypt for their tireless efforts.

    And I am sure all Members share my intense frustration it has not happened.

    Until there is such a breakthrough, we must keep doing all we can to relieve suffering.

    UK aid has saved lives.

    Reaching hundreds of thousands with food, water, hygiene, and sanitation, and essential healthcare.

    And under the most appalling circumstances our aid is saving lives today.

    That includes, the almost nine million pounds the UK has provided to UK-Med, since we entered office,

    reaching half a million patients inside Gaza, 24,000 in the past fortnight alone.

    Like 3-year old Razan.

    UK-funded medics removed a bullet from her neck after nearly three hours of surgery.

    These doctors and nurses working in the most extreme conditions are true heroes.

    They deserve the thanks and admiration of the entire House.

    We are also working, of course, multilaterally.

    The 149 trucks from the World Food Programme and UNICEF entering Gaza in recent day included food supplies funded by the UK.

    And thousands more trucks laden with aid paid for by British taxpayers can enter, the moment the Israeli government lets it.

    Today, I am announcing an extra £40 million for humanitarian assistance in Gaza this year, including seven and a half million for UK-Med to sustain their vital operations in Gaza and save more lives.

    Mr Deputy Speaker, accompanying the horrors in Gaza, there is an accelerating campaign to prevent a future Palestinian state in the West Bank.

    It’s embraced by Netanyahu, it’s encouraged by his Ministers. It’s driven by an extremist ideology which wants to suffocate the two-state solution, the only route to a lasting peace and security.

    We see it in the unprecedented pace of settlement expansion.

    In the shocking levels of settler violence, even settler terrorism,

    for that is what the most egregious ideological attacks are.

    And in the deliberate attempts to squeeze the Palestinian Authority, unjustly denying it access to its own funds, and it harms Israel’s long-term interests.

    Now, the Israeli government is reintroducing plans to construct new units in the E1 area of occupied east Jerusalem.

    If built, this settlement would separate the West Bank’s north from its south and Palestinians in the West Bank from East Jerusalem.

    These plans are wholly unacceptable.

    They are illegal.

    And they must not happen.

    Mr Deputy Speaker, we are also striving to keep open the prospects of a two-state solution.

    UK assistance has been preserving the Palestinian Authority, contributing to essential Palestinian workers’ salaries and supporting them to progress critical reforms.

    Today, I can confirm we are enhancing our support, providing £7 million to strengthen the PA and Palestinian governance, implementing the agreement signed by myself and PM Mustafa earlier this year.

    And we’re delivering the reform plans President Abbas has set out.

    I can also confirm that we are providing £20 million to support UNRWA’s many services for Palestinian refugees.

    And alongside this support, we are leading diplomatic efforts to show there must be a viable peaceful pathway to a Palestinian state, involving the PA, not Hamas, in security and governance of the area.

    Hamas can have no role in the governance of Gaza nor use it as a launchpad for terrorism.

    Israeli Ministers should support the PA – not actively undermine its economy, as Ministers Ben-Gvir and Smotrich are doing.

    The UK is co-leading with Egypt the humanitarian and reconstruction track for the forthcoming Two-State Solution Conference.

    And we are pushing to agree plans for a credible next phase in Gaza with a responsible, reformed PA at their core.

    So we turn any temporary ceasefire into a lasting peace.

    Mr Deputy Speaker, in our year in office, this Labour Government has acted to address this horrendous conflict.

    We restored funding to UNRWA, after the Tories froze it.

    We suspended arms export licenses, when the Tories declined to act.

    We have provided nearly a quarter of a billion in humanitarian assistance, this year and next, getting medical treatment and food to hundreds of thousands of civilians in Gaza.

    We have stood with the hostage families at every stage.

    We’ve worked with Jordan to fly medicines into Gaza, with Egypt to treat medically evacuated civilians, with Kuwait and UNICEF to help children in Gaza.

    We’ve delivered three sanctions packages on violent settlers, suspended trade negotiations with this Israeli government and sanctioned far-right Israeli Ministers for incitement.

    We have defended the independence of international courts. We signed a landmark agreement with the Palestinian Authority, and hosted the Palestinian Prime Minister in London, pushing for the reform it needs.

    We called for…

    worked for…

    and voted for…

    an immediate ceasefire and the release of the hostages at every possible opportunity.

    And we will keep doing so until this war is over, Hamas release the hostages and we finally have a pathway to a two-state solution.

    I commend this statement to the House.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Russia and Ukraine edge closer to first talks in seven weeks

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Russia and Ukraine appear close to agreeing to hold a new round of peace talks in Turkey this week, although the Kremlin said on Monday that the two sides held “diametrically opposed” positions on how to end the war.

    Two days after Ukraine called for new talks in Istanbul this week, Russian state news agency TASS quoted an unidentified source as saying that negotiators – who have not sat down together for seven weeks – may meet there on Thursday and Friday.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy told a gathering of his diplomats in Kyiv: “We need greater momentum in negotiations to end the war.”

    He added: “The agenda from our side is clear: the return of prisoners of war, the return of children abducted by Russia, and the preparation of a leaders’ meeting.”

    Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is under increasing pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to show progress towards ending the conflict, turned down a previous challenge from Zelenskiy to meet him in person.

    Putin has repeatedly said he does not see Zelenskiy as a legitimate leader because Ukraine, which is under martial law, did not hold new elections when his five-year mandate expired last year.

    Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that as soon as there was a definitive understanding of the date for the next round of talks, then Moscow would announce it.

    “There is our draft memorandum, there is a draft memorandum that has been handed over by the Ukrainian side. There is to be an exchange of views and talks on these two drafts, which are diametrically opposed so far,” Peskov said.

    Ukraine and Russia have held two rounds of talks in Istanbul, on May 16 and June 2, that led to the exchange of thousands of prisoners of war and the remains of dead soldiers. But the two sides have made no breakthrough towards a ceasefire or a settlement to end almost three and a half years of war.

    Trump said last week he would impose new sanctions in 50 days on Russia and countries that buy its exports if there is no deal before then to end the conflict.

    -Reuters

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Secretary-General is appalled by the accelerating breakdown of humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where the last lifelines keeping people alive are collapsing.
     
    He deplores the growing reports of children and adults suffering from malnutrition.
     
    The Secretary-General strongly condemns the ongoing violence, including the shooting, killing, and injuring of people attempting to get food for their families.
     
    Civilians must be protected and respected, and they must never be targeted. The population in Gaza remains gravely undersupplied with the basic necessities of life.
     
    Israel has the obligation to allow and facilitate by all the means at its disposal the humanitarian relief provided by the United Nations and by other humanitarian organizations.
     
    The Secretary-General notes that the intensification of hostilities in recent days comes as the humanitarian system is being impeded, undermined and endangered.
     
    A new evacuation order in parts of Deir al Balah – home to tens of thousands – pushes people into more desperate conditions and further displacement and restricts the United Nations’ ability to deliver life-saving aid. UN staff remain in Deir al Balah, and two UN guesthouses have been struck, despite parties having been informed of the locations of UN premises, which are inviolable. These locations – as with all civilian sites – must be protected, regardless of evacuation orders.
     
    The Secretary-General reiterates his urgent call for the protection of civilians, including humanitarian personnel, and for the provision of essential resources to ensure their survival.
     
    He once again calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.
     
    The UN stands ready to significantly scale up our humanitarian operations. The time for a ceasefire is now.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: UPDATE – Monday, July 21, 2025

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Note: All times local

    National Capital Region, Canada

    9:30 a.m. The Prime Minister will meet with a bipartisan delegation of United States senators.

    Third floor
    West Block
    Parliament Hill

    Closed to media

    1:15 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan.

    Third floor
    West Block
    Parliament Hill

    Note for media:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Driving Innovation in Alberta

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank Annual Meetings record project preparation deals expected to unlock about US$ 1.0 billion in investments

    Source: APO

    The 32nd Annual Meetings of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), also known as AAM2025, witnessed a flurry of deal signings with four project preparation transactions signed between the Bank and various entities that are expected to unlock investments valued at about US$ 1.0 billion.

    In an agreement signed by Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, for Afreximbank, and Mrs. Temwani Simwaka, CEO, for NBS Bank Plc (NBS), Malawi, the two institutions executed a Joint Project Preparation Facility Framework Agreement under which they will pool resources to provide early project preparatory financing to progress projects in Malawi from pre-feasibility stage to bankability in a timely manner.

    As set out in the agreement, Afreximbank and NBS will support public and private sector investors by availing financing and technical support services to de-risk projects in priority sectors, including energy, transport and logistics, logistical platforms (such as special economic zones and industrial parks), manufacturing, agro-processing, hospitality and tourism, extractives, solid minerals, and services (such as ICT, healthcare, and creative economy). Embedded in the framework agreement is a capacity building programme that will empower NBS staff to undertake project preparation activities in the medium term.

    Afreximbank and NBS expect to bring onstream investments of about US$ 300 million in Malawi in the near term.

    In another transaction, Afreximbank signed a US$ 4.4-million Project Preparation Facility Agreement in favour of Med Aditus Pharmaceutical Kenya Limited. The facility will be deployed to finance the preparation of feasibility and bankability studies towards the development of a state-of-the-art fill and finish pharmaceutical manufacturing plant, with a production capacity of at least two billion tablets and capsules per annum, located in Kibos, Kisumu County, Kenya.

    The project will improve access to quality, affordable life-saving medicines across the Great Lakes region, contributing to better health outcomes in a region that contends with heavy loads of infectious and other diseases. The project will also facilitate medical and manufacturing blockchain technology transfer to Africa, supporting the long-term growth and strengthening the wider region’s health sector. The project preparation facility will bring onstream assets of about US$ 40 million.

    Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, signed the agreement on behalf of Afreximbank while Dr. Dhiren Thakker, Founder and CEO of Med Aditus Pharma, signed for his company.

    Afreximbank also signed a Heads of Terms agreement for a US$4.4-million project preparation facility in favour of Green Hybrid Power Private Limited. The facility will be deployed towards the preparation of bankability and feasibility studies and procurement of transaction advisors for a 1-Gigawatt (GW) hybrid floating solar photovoltaic power system on Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe.

    The project, to be implemented in two phases, includes a pilot phase targeting a generation capacity of 500 MW to be sold wholly to the Intensive Energy Users Group, a consortium of blue-chip industrial and mining energy users in Zimbabwe, under a “take-or-pay” 20-year power purchase agreement with a cost-reflective tariff. The project is expected to supply affordable and reliable power that will support value-addition and beneficiation of Zimbabwe’s minerals, thereby boosting the country’s foreign exchange earnings.

    The project preparation facility will unlock an investment estimated at US$ 350 million.

    Signing the agreement were Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, on behalf of Afreximbank, and Mr. Eddie Cross, Chairman, for Green Hybrid Power Private Limited.

    Afreximbank, in addition, signed a Project Preparation Facility Heads of Terms Agreement of US$ 4.0 million in favour of Proton Energy Limited, a Nigerian independent power producer. The facility will be deployed towards financing the preparation of feasibility studies and procurement of transaction advisory services for the development of a grid-connected gas-fired power plant with a nameplate capacity of 500 MW in Sapele, Nigeria. The project will commence with an initial generation capacity of 150 MW.

    The project will evacuate the electricity generated primarily to Eko Electricity Distribution Company under a 20-year power purchase agreement with a cost-reflective tariff.

    The facility is expected to bring on stream assets estimated at US$ 300 million.

    Signing the agreement were Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, on behalf of Afreximbank, and Mr. Oti Ikomi, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, for Proton Energy Limited.

    AAM2025 took place from 25 to 28 June and attracted an estimated 8,000 participants, including presidents, prime ministers, ministers and business leaders, from across Africa, the Caribbean and beyond. It ended with the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders where Dr. George Elombi was appointed the next President of the Bank who succeeds Prof. Benedict Oramah whose tenure is ending after two five-year terms in the position.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

    Media Contact:
    Vincent Musumba
    Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
    Email: press@afreximbank.com

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    About Afreximbank:
    African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

    For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –