NewzIntel.com

Category: Middle East

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China has trained the first teachers for the second Lu Ban Workshop in Kazakhstan

    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

    BEIJING, July 19 (Xinhua) — The Tianjin Vocational Institute (TVI) in northern China recently completed training for the first group of teachers who will work at the second Lu Ban Workshop in Kazakhstan, the Tianjin Daily newspaper reported.

    The course participants included 15 teachers from the L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University (ENU) in Astana, Kazakhstan. During the artificial intelligence (AI) training, which started on June 23, they studied four core disciplines – data mining, machine learning, deep learning, and industrial internet – and also received practical training in AI-related technologies, a collaborative robot, and an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).

    Last year, a memorandum of cooperation was signed between TPI and ENU on the joint creation of the second Lu Ban Workshop in Kazakhstan, which will focus on AI. The first such institution in this country, founded with the support of TPI and aimed at training specialists in the field of transport and communications, was put into trial operation in 2023.

    As the teacher of this training, TPI teacher Li Guohui said: “We specially designed these training courses aimed at the industrial development of Kazakhstan. In particular, according to the scenarios of UAV technology application in local agricultural activities, the cadets from Kazakhstan not only learned flight control, but also completed a series of practical tasks, including mapping agricultural land.”

    He added that the first batch of training equipment intended for the second Lu Ban Workshop in Kazakhstan had already been delivered to the country, and installation and commissioning work would soon begin.

    Lu Ban Workshop, named after the famous ancient Chinese craftsman Lu Ban, is a brand of international vocational education initiated and promoted by Tianjin City Government.

    To date, China has built 34 Lu Ban Workshops in 30 countries and regions around the world. 10 of them were established in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Russia, Pakistan, Cambodia, Egypt and other SCO countries. -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 News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 19, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 19, 2025.

    Systematic bias: how Western media reproduces the Israeli narrative
    COMMENTARY: By Refaat Ibrahim “If words shape our consciousness, then the media holds the keys to minds.” This sentence is not merely a metaphor, but a reality we live daily in the coverage of the Israeli aggression on Gaza, where the crimes of the occupation are turned into “acts of violence”, the siege targeting civilians

    From ‘Stone Age’ treasury boss to National Party Senator: John Stone 1929-2025
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra AUSPIC John Owen Stone AO was a legendary leader of the Commonwealth Treasury. He was secretary (departmental head) from January 1979 to September 1984 but was an intellectual driving force before then as deputy secretary from 1971

    Mark Latham’s portrait may come off federal caucus wall
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The Labor caucus tolerates having the odd “rat” among the photos of ALP leaders on the party room wall, but Mark Latham may have now pushed it too far. After the latest bizarre scandal surrounding the one-time federal Labor leader,

    Connie Francis was the voice of a generation and the soundtrack of post-war America
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Leigh Carriage, Senior Lecturer in Music, Southern Cross University Hulton Archive/Getty Images Connie Francis dominated the music charts in the late 1950s and early 1960s with hits like Stupid Cupid, Pretty Little Baby and Don’t Break the Heart That Loves You. The pop star, author and actor

    Trump has ‘chronic venous insufficiency’. Is it dangerous? Can it be treated?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Theresa Larkin, Associate Professor of Medical Sciences, University of Wollongong Anna Moneymaker/Staff/Getty US President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with “chronic venous insufficiency” after experiencing some mild swelling in his lower legs. According to a letter the White House published from the president’s doctor, the condition is

    ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 18, 2025
    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 18, 2025.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Systematic bias: how Western media reproduces the Israeli narrative

    COMMENTARY: By Refaat Ibrahim

    “If words shape our consciousness, then the media holds the keys to minds.”

    This sentence is not merely a metaphor, but a reality we live daily in the coverage of the Israeli aggression on Gaza, where the crimes of the occupation are turned into “acts of violence”, the siege targeting civilians into “security measures”, and the legitimate resistance into “terrorist acts”.

    This linguistic distortion is not innocent; it is part of a “systematic mechanism” practised by major Western media outlets, through which they perpetuate a false image of a “conflict between two equal sides”, ignoring the fact that one is an occupier armed with the latest military technology, and the other is a people besieged in their land for decades.

    Here, the ethical question becomes urgent: how does the media shift from conveying truth to becoming a tool for justifying oppression?

    Western media institutions promote a colonial narrative that reproduces the discourse of Israeli superiority, using linguistic and legal mechanisms to justify genocide.

    But the rise of global awareness through social media platforms and documentaries like We Are Not Numbers, produced by youth in Gaza, exposes this bias and brings the Palestinian narrative back to the forefront.

    Selective coverage . . .  when injustice becomes an opinion
     “Terrorism”, “self-defence”, “conflict” . . . are all terms that place the responsibility for violence on Palestinians while presenting Israel as the perpetual victim. This linguistic shift contradicts international law, which considers settlements a war crime (according to Article 8 of the Rome Statute), yet most reports avoid even describing the West Bank as “occupied territory”.

    More dangerously, the issue is reduced to “violent events” without mentioning their contexts: how can the Palestinian people’s resistance be understood without addressing 75 years of displacement and the siege of Gaza since 2007? The media is like someone commenting on the flames without mentioning who ignited them.

    The Western media coverage of the Israeli war on Gaza represents a blatant model of systematic bias that reproduces the Israeli narrative and justifies war crimes through precise linguistic and media mechanisms. Below is a breakdown of the most prominent practices:

    Stripping historical context and portraying Palestinians as aggressor

    Ignoring the occupation: Media outlets like the BBC and The New York Times ignored the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories since 1948 and focused on the 7 October 2023 attack as an isolated event, without linking it to the daily oppression such as home demolitions and arrests in Jerusalem and the West Bank.

    Misleading terms: The war has often been described as a “conflict between Israel and Hamas”, while Gaza is considered the largest open-air prison in the world under Israeli siege since 2007. Example: The Economist described Hamas’s attacks as “bloody”, while Israeli attacks were called “military operations”.

    Dehumanising Palestinians
     Language of abstraction: The BBC used terms like “died” for Palestinians versus “killed” for Israelis, according to a quantitative study by The Intercept, weakening sympathy for Palestinian victims.

    Victim portrayal: While Israeli death reports included names and family ties (like “mother” or “grandmother”), Palestinians were shown as anonymous numbers, as seen in the coverage of Le Monde and Le Figaro.

    Israeli political rhetoric: Media outlets reported statements by Israeli leaders such as dismissed defence minister Yoav Gallant, who described Palestinians as “human animals”, and Benjamin Netanyahu, who called them “children of darkness”, without critically analysing this rhetoric that strips them of their humanity.

    Distorting resistance and linking it to terrorism
     Misleading comparisons: The October 7 attack was compared to “9/11” and described as a “terrorist attack” in The Washington Post and CNN, reinforcing the “war on terror” narrative and justifying Israel’s excessive response.

    Fake news: Papers like The Sun and Daily Mail promoted the story of “beheaded Israeli babies” without evidence, a story even adopted by US president Joe Biden, only to be disproven later by videos showing Hamas’ humane treatment of captives.

    Selective coverage and suppression of the Palestinian narrative
     Silencing journalists: Journalists such as Zahraa Al-Akhras (Global News) and Bassam Bounni (BBC) were dismissed for criticising Israel or supporting Palestine, while others were pressured to adopt the Israeli narrative.

    Defaming Palestinian institutions: The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal claimed the Palestinian death toll figures were “exaggerated”, ignoring UN and human rights organisations’ reports that confirmed their accuracy.

    Manipulating legal and ethical terms
     Denying war crimes: Deutsche Welle stated that Israeli attacks are “not considered war crimes”, despite the destruction of hospitals and the killing of tens of thousands of civilians.

    Legal misinformation: The BBC referred to Israeli settlements in the West Bank as “disputed territories”, despite the UN declaring them illegal.

    Double standards in conflict coverage
     Comparison with Ukraine: Western media linked support for Ukraine and Israel as “victims of aggression”, while ignoring that Israel is an occupying power under international law. Terminology shifted immediately: “invasion”, “war crimes”, “occupation” were used for Ukraine but omitted when speaking of Palestine.

    According to a 2022 study by the Arab Media Monitoring Project, 90 percent of Western reports on Ukraine used language blaming Russia for the violence, compared to only 30 percent in the Palestinian case.

    This contradiction exposes the underlying “racist bias”: how is killing in Europe called “genocide”, while in Gaza it is termed a “complicated conflict”? The answer lies in the statement of journalist Mika Brzezinski: “The only red line in Western media is criticising Israel.”

    False neutrality: Sky News claimed it “could not verify” the Baptist Hospital massacre, despite video documentation, yet quickly adopted the Israeli narrative.

    Consequences: legitimising genocide and marginalising Palestinian rights
     Western media practices have contributed to normalising Israeli violence by portraying it as “legitimate defence”, while resistance is labelled as “terrorism.”

    Deepening Palestinian isolation: By stripping them of the right to narrate, as shown in an academic study by Mike Berry (Cardiff University), which found emotional terms used exclusively to describe Israeli victims.

    Undermining international law: By ignoring reports from organisations like Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, which confirm Israel’s commission of war crimes.

    Violating journalistic ethics . . .  when the journalist becomes the occupation’s lawyer
     Journalistic codes of ethics — such as the charter of the “International Federation of Journalists” — unanimously agree that the media’s primary task is “to expose the facts without fear”. But the reality proves the opposite:

    In 2023, CNN deleted an interview with a Palestinian survivor of the Jenin massacre after pressure from the Israeli lobby (according to an investigation by Middle East Eye).

    The Guardian was forced to edit the headline of an article that described settlements as “apartheid” after threats of legal action.

    This self-censorship turns journalism into a “copier of official statements”, abandoning the principle of “not compromising with ruling powers” emphasised by the “International Journalists’ Network”.

    Toward human-centred journalism
     Fixing this flaw requires dismantling biased language: replacing “conflict” with “military occupation”, and “settlements” with “illegal colonies”.

    Relying on international law: such as mentioning Articles 49 and 53 of the Fourth Geneva Convention when discussing the displacement of Palestinians.

    Giving space to victims’ voices: According to an Amnesty report, 80% of guests on Western TV channels discussing the conflict were either Israeli or Western.

    Holding media institutions accountable: through pressure campaigns to enforce their ethical charters (such as obligating the BBC to mention “apartheid” after the HRW report).

    Conclusion
     The war on Gaza has become a stark test of media ethics. While platforms like Al Jazeera and Middle East Eye have helped expose violations, major Western media outlets continue to reproduce a colonial discourse that enables Israel. The greatest challenge today is to break the silence surrounding the crimes of genocide and impose a human narrative that restores the stolen humanity of the victims.

    “Occupation doesn’t just need tanks, it needs media to justify its existence.” These were the words of journalist Gideon Levy after witnessing how his camera turned war crimes into “normal news”.

    If Western media is serious about its claim of neutrality, it must start with a simple step: call things by their names. Words are not lifeless letters, they are ticking bombs that shape the consciousness of generations.

    Refaat Ibrahim is the editor and creator of The Resistant Palestinian Pens website, where you can find all his articles. He is a Palestinian writer living in Gaza, where he studied English language and literature at the Islamic University. He has been passionate about writing since childhood, and is interested in political, social, economic, and cultural matters concerning his homeland, Palestine. This article was first published at Pearls and Irritations social policy journal in Australia.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Humanitarians report more deaths, displacement and desperation in Gaza

    Source: United Nations 2

    “Every day brings more preventable deaths, displacement and desperation,” the agency said in a humanitarian update.

    On Friday, Israeli authorities issued another displacement order, this time for parts of North Gaza.

    OCHA said it continues to receive deeply troubling reports of malnourished children and adults being admitted to hospitals with insufficient resources available to treat them.

    Fuel crisis deepens

    The energy crisis in Gaza is also deepening, despite the resumption of limited fuel imports as the quantities that are entering – while critical for continuity – “remain at lower levels than what we were previously able to extract from dwindling internal reserves, which have now been fully depleted”.

    The situation has forced solid waste collection to be paused in recent days, and additional wells have had to shut down, particularly in Deir Al-Balah.

    “While specific health services, including dialysis, have reduced or shut down, others could go on for a few more days before they too will have to go dark,” OCHA warned.

    “With every day that passes, people have less clean water and healthcare and more sewage flooding ground floors.”

    Since the limited entry of fuel entry supplies resumed on 9 July, the UN has managed to send just over 600,000 litres of diesel to Kerem Shalom. On Thursday,

    it was able to send 35,000 litres of much-needed benzene for the first time.

    OCHA said these volumes are limited because Israel has allowed only 14 trucks over the past week. 

    The agency stressed that to maintain lifesaving operations, hundreds of thousands of litres of fuel are needed every day. The limited fuel currently entering is primarily allocated to health, water and communications services as well as to power vehicles.

    Humanitarian movements curtailed

    Humanitarian movements inside Gaza also continue to be restricted.

    On Thursday, seven out of 13 attempts to coordinate the movement of aid workers and supplies with the Israeli authorities were facilitated.

    Teams were able to retrieve some fuel, collect some water, relocate generators, provide supplies related to hygiene and sanitation and transfer much-needed medical supplies.

    The six remaining attempts were either outright denied or approved initially, but then faced obstacles on the ground.

    End international media ban

    Meanwhile, the head of the UN Palestine refugee agency UNRWA called on Friday for the ban on international media entering Gaza to be lifted.

    “650 days of atrocities against civilians with no international media allowed in,” Philippe Lazzarini wrote in social media post, adding that over 200 Palestinian journalists have been killed during this time.

    “Media ban fuels dis-information campaigns questioning first-hand data and accounts from eyewitnesses and international humanitarian organizations,” he said.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wasserman Schultz, Díaz-Balart, Gonzales, Espaillat Lead Latino-Jewish Caucus in Marking Anniversary of AMIA Jewish Center Bombing, Demand Accountability

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23)

    “More than three decades after the tragic AMIA Jewish Center bombing, and there’s still no justice for the 85 victims, the hundreds of injured, and countless people who were traumatized by this attack,” said Wasserman Schultz. “With antisemitism skyrocketing around the world, this gruesome attack on Argentina’s thriving Jewish community cannot go unanswered. Congressmen Diaz-Balart, Espaillat, Gonzales, and I are all proud to honor the victims of this attack and keep up the vital pursuit of justice for their loved ones.”

    Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Co-Chair of the Latino-Jewish Caucus, was joined by fellow Co-Chairs, Reps. Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and Tony Gonzales (TX-23) in sponsoring a resolution to commemorate the 31st anniversary of the 1994 bombing of the AMIA Jewish Community Center in Buenos Aires and demanding justice and accountability for those responsible for the attack.

    “More than three decades after the tragic AMIA Jewish Center bombing, and there’s still no justice for the 85 victims, the hundreds of injured, and countless people who were traumatized by this attack,” said Wasserman Schultz. “With antisemitism skyrocketing around the world, this gruesome attack on Argentina’s thriving Jewish community cannot go unanswered. Congressmen Diaz-Balart, Espaillat, Gonzales, and I are all proud to honor the victims of this attack and keep up the vital pursuit of justice for their loved ones.”

    “Today, we honor and mourn the 85 innocent lives, overwhelmingly members of Argentina’s Jewish community, who were brutally murdered, and the more than 300 injured, in the deadliest antisemitic terrorist attack in Argentina’s history. On July 18, 1994, the Asociación Mutual Israelita Argentina (AMIA) in Buenos Aires was targeted in an act of blatant antisemitism,” said Diaz-Balart. “I remain committed to demanding justice and accountability for the vile perpetrators of this crime, including Iran’s former Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi and other terrorists. We must never forget the victims, and we must continue to condemn the alarming rise of antisemitism wherever it appears and hold accountable those who engage in such heinous acts.”

    “As co-chair of the Latino-Jewish Congressional Caucus, I am proud to join my colleagues to reintroduce this resolution that recognizes the 31st anniversary of the attack on the AMIA in Buenos Aires, which was the deadliest terrorist attack in Argentine history,” said Espaillat. “Today’s bipartisan resolution demonstrates the Caucus’ commitment to ensuring justice for each of the victims as we embrace their families and loved ones. Terrorism and antisemitism have no place in our society, and the reintroduction of this legislation reaffirms our solidarity with the Jewish community in Argentina and around the world.”

    “31 years ago, 85 souls were taken from our world far too soon in the AMIA Jewish Center bombing in Buenos Aires. We will never forget the victims, their families, and all those touched by this horrific tragedy,” said Gonzales. “Now more than ever, America needs steady voices in Congress in the fight to eradicate antisemitism. As leaders of the Latino-Jewish Caucus, this is central to our mission.” 

    “This week, Argentine and Jewish communities worldwide mark the 31st anniversary of the bombing of the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) building in Buenos Aires, the deadliest antisemitic attack since the Holocaust until Hamas’ October 7 terrorist attack on Israel. For over three decades, American Jewish Committee (AJC) has persistently advocated for justice, urging Argentina to hold those responsible accountable. The AMIA bombing, carried out by Hezbollah operatives, is a reminder of the global threat posed by the Iranian regime and its proxies. We commend the co-chairs of the Latino-Jewish Congressional Caucus, Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), and Tony Gonzales (R-TX), for their leadership and steadfast commitment to advancing truth and justice, and for sustaining awareness of the Iranian regime’s continuous destabilizing activities around the world. Let this anniversary renew our commitment to ensure the victims are never forgotten, that justice is ultimately served, and that dangerous proxies can no longer sow terror across the globe,” said Dina Siegel Vann, Director, The Arthur and Rochelle Belfer Institute for Latino and Latin American Affairs, AJC.

    First established in 2011 with support from the American Jewish Committee, the bipartisan Latino-Jewish Congressional Caucus has cemented stronger bonds based on Latino and Jewish communities’ shared histories as immigrants and minorities. It has also been vocal in responding to the growing wave of antisemitism across the globe in the U.S. The 25-member Caucus is now led by Reps. Wasserman Schultz, Díaz-Balart, Espaillat, and Tony Gonzales. Last July, Rep. Wasserman Schultz joined a Congressional delegation to Buenos Aires to participate in the formal 30th anniversary commemoration of the AMIA attack.

    The text of House Resolution 597 can be found here and below:

    Condemning the attack on the Argentine Jewish Mutual Association Jewish Community Center in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in July 1994, and encouraging accountability

    for the attack.

    Whereas, 31 years ago, on July 18, 1994, 85 innocent people were killed and more than 300 were injured when the Asociación Mutual Israelita Argentina (AMIA) was bombed in Buenos Aires, Argentina;

    Whereas at that time, the AMIA bombing was the deadliest attack on Jewish people outside Israel since the Holocaust;

    Whereas it is reported that considerable evidence links the attack to the terrorist group Hezbollah, which is based in Lebanon, and sponsored by Iran, a U.S.-designated state

    sponsor of terrorism since 1984;

    Whereas, two years earlier, Hezbollah operatives also blew up the Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires, killing 29 civilians and injuring 242;

    Whereas the 31 years since the bombing have been marred by a failure to bring those responsible, including Iran backed operatives and their Hezbollah proxies, to justice;

    Whereas, in September 2004, ten years after the attack, Alberto Nisman was appointed as the Special Prosecutor in charge of the 1994 AMIA bombing investigation;

    Whereas, in October 2006, Argentine prosecutors Alberto Nisman and Marcelo Martinez Burgos formally accused the Iranian regime of directing the bombing, and the Hezbollah militia of carrying it out;

    Whereas the Argentine prosecutors charged Iranian nationals as suspects in the AMIA bombing, including—

    (1) Ali Fallahijan, Iran’s former intelligence minister;

    (2) Mohsen Rabbani, Iran’s former cultural attache´ in Buenos Aires;

    (3) Ahmad Reza Asghari, a former Iranian diplomat posted to Argentina;

    (4) Ahmad Vahidi, Iran’s former defense minister;

    (5) Ali Akbar Velayati, Iran’s former foreign minister; (6) Mohsen Rezaee, former chief commander of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps;

    (7) Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, former President of Iran; and

    (8) Hadi Soleimanpour, former Iranian ambassador to Argentina;

    Whereas Ibrahim Hussein Berro, a member of the terrorist group Hezbollah, was identified as the AMIA bomber;

    Whereas, in November 2006, an Argentine judge issued arrest warrants for 8 Iranian nationals, including high ranking regime and military operatives, and one Lebanese national, who were named as suspects in the AMIA bombing;

    Whereas, in November 2007, INTERPOL voted to put the following suspects in the 1994 AMIA attack on its most wanted list—Ali Fallahijan, Mohsen Rabbani, Ahmad Reza Asghari, Ahmad Vahidi, Mohsen Razaee from Iran, and Imad Fayez Moughnieh from Lebanon;

    Whereas INTERPOL currently has three red alerts in place in relation to the AMIA attack ;

    Whereas, on January 13, 2015, prosecutor Alberto Nisman alleged in a complaint that then-Argentinian President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner and then-Minister of Foreign Relations Hector Timerman conspired to cover up Iranian involvement in the 1994 terrorist bombing, and reportedly agreed to negotiate immunity for Iranian suspects and help get their names removed from the INTERPOL list;

    Whereas prosecutor Alberto Nisman was scheduled to present his new findings to the Argentinian Congress on January 19, 2015;

    Whereas prosecutor Alberto Nisman was found shot in the head in his apartment in Buenos Aires on January 18, 2015;

    Whereas the investigation of the AMIA bombing has been marked by judicial misconduct and undue influence;

    Whereas, to date, no one has been brought to justice for the 1992 bombing of the Israeli Embassy in Argentina, the 1994 bombing of the AMIA Jewish Community Center in Buenos Aires, or the death of Argentine prosecutor Alberto Nisman;

    Whereas former Federal judge Juan Jose Galeano and former State Intelligence Secretariat intelligence head Hugo Anzorreguy have both been convicted and sentenced to prison for subverting the investigation and concealing evidence;

    Whereas, in 2019, the Argentine Government declared Hezbollah a terrorist organization, expelled all members of the organization from the country, and froze their assets in Argentina;

    Whereas, in 2020, Argentine President Alberto Fernandez reaffirmed the commitment of the Argentine Republic to bring those responsible for the attack to justice;

    Whereas, on April 12th, 2024, Argentina’s highest criminal court, the Argentine Court of Cassation, broke the extended silence of the justice system by affirming Iran’s responsibility for the deadly bombing and declaring it a ‘‘crime against humanity’’;

    Whereas according to news reports of the ruling, the court identified ‘‘top Iranian officials and paramilitary Revolutionary Guard commanders in its determination that Iran carried out the bombings in response to Argentina scrapping three contracts that would have provided Tehran with nuclear technology in the mid-1980s’’;

    Whereas Argentine President Javier Milei commended the high court’s ruling, noting that the determination was a ‘‘significant step’’ that put an end to decades of ‘‘delays and cover-ups’’;

    Whereas leaders in Argentina’s Jewish community, including AMIA President Amos Linetzky, noted that the historic ruling would finally provide an opportunity for survivors and relatives of victims to seek legal action against Iran;

    Whereas the Foreign Ministry of Argentina responded to the court’s ruling by requesting that INTERPOL issue an immediate international arrest notice for Ahmad Vahidi, who is now the Iranian Interior Minister, ‘‘as one of those responsible for the attack on AMIA’’

    Whereas, in March 2025, Argentina passed Law No. 27.784, which allows trial in absentia, opening the door for prosecuting foreign suspects not present in the country;

    Whereas, in April 2025, AMIA special prosecutor Sebastia´n Basso requested both national and international arrest warrants for Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei under the authority of Law No. 27.784;

    Whereas, on June 26, 2025, Federal Judge Daniel Rafecas ruled that a trial in absentia would be held for the 10 men accused of planning and ordering the terrorist attack on the AMIA; and

    Whereas, today, Argentina is home to more than 250,000 Jewish people, making it the largest home to Jews in Latin America and the 6th largest in the world:

    Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives—

    (1) condemns the 1994 attack on the Asociación Mutual Israelita Argentina (AMIA) in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and remembers the victims of this heinous act;

    (2) honors the memory of the victims and expresses sympathy to their relatives, who have waited for more than 3 decades without justice for the loss of their loved ones;

    (3) underscores the concern of the United States regarding the continuing delay in the proper resolution of this case;

    (4) calls for the perpetrators of this horrific act, including Iranian and Hezbollah operatives, to be held accountable for their crimes;

    (5) commends the Government of Argentina for designating Hezbollah and Hamas as terrorist organizations and urges other United States allies and partners in Latin America and the Caribbean to do the same;

    (6) demands that INTERPOL member countries comply with arrest orders for individuals responsible for the deadly attack on the AMIA Jewish Community Center; and

    (7) stands in solidarity with the Jewish community of Argentina and the broader Latin American and Caribbean Jewish diaspora at a time of surging antisemitism around the world.

    ####

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Surveys Flood Damage in Chapel Hill, Meets with Business Owners and North Carolinians Impacted by Tropical Storm Chantal

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Surveys Flood Damage in Chapel Hill, Meets with Business Owners and North Carolinians Impacted by Tropical Storm Chantal

    Governor Stein Surveys Flood Damage in Chapel Hill, Meets with Business Owners and North Carolinians Impacted by Tropical Storm Chantal
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today Governor Josh Stein visited Chapel Hill to survey storm damage Tropical Storm Chantal caused and met with local officials, business owners, and North Carolinians who were affected by the storm. The Governor visited impacted businesses at Eastgate Crossing and apartments in Camelot Village.

    “As recovery and cleanup efforts continue, I am grateful to the local and state emergency responders for their work to help keep people safe during the flashfloods and in the aftermath of Chantal,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Whether it’s business owners at Eastgate Crossing or residents in Camelot Village, people are working hard to get back on their feet. We must do everything we can to support them and facilitate long-term recovery. And our hearts go out to the families who lost loved ones.”

    Tropical Storm Chantal hit central North Carolina on July 6, with some locations seeing as much as 9 to 12 inches of rain. The Haw River, the Eno River, and Jordan Lake, among others, experienced record or near-record water levels. Flooding impacted critical infrastructure and public and private property. 

    Since July 5, the State Emergency Response Team has been activated and engaged with local emergency managers and first responders, providing information, resources, and support. On July 16, Governor Stein declared a State of Emergency to facilitate state and federal recovery assistance.

    The Division of Emergency Management is working with local officials to assess the scope of damage caused by Tropical Storm Chantal. As the full damage assessment is completed in concert with relevant federal partners, the declaration along with the assessment analysis will determine possible additional support that residents, businesses, and local governments may receive to accelerate the recovery process and support expenses incurred during the response phase of the disaster. 

    Jul 18, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Mfume, Senator Alsobrooks Introduce Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07) introduced the Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act in the United States House of Representatives. Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) simultaneously introduced the companion legislation in the United States Senate, with Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) as an original cosponsor. This legislation will serve as a lifeline for student athletes and requires college and high school athletic programs to implement heat illness emergency action plans (EAPs) in consultation with local emergency responders, including the operation and use of cold-water immersion equipment.

    This legislation honors Jordan McNair, who was a freshman on the University of Maryland football team when he collapsed during practice on May 29, 2018 due to heatstroke. Roughly 90 minutes passed before McNair arrived at a nearby hospital in critical condition. He was then airlifted to the University of Maryland Medical Center Shock Trauma Center to receive an emergency liver transplant, but tragically died 2 weeks later. 

    “Some of my fondest childhood memories were on the field playing football and Little League Baseball. Yet, for too many young athletes, these experiences turn into traumatic ones as they mourn the loss of their teammates—like Jordan McNair,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. ”However, these deaths are preventable—and through legislation like the Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act, we can ensure that parents and players alike can have the peace of mind that their health is accounted for during their journey in collegiate and high school sports. I am grateful for Senator Alsobrooks’ co-leadership on this legislation, and for her work in the U.S. Senate to help get this done,” he concluded. 

    “It is long past time that we pass the Jordan McNair Act and finally ensure student athletes are protected, and college athletic programs implement heat illness emergency action plans and coordinate with local emergency responders.” said Senator Angela Alsobrooks. “Jordan McNair would be 26 today. We must honor his memory by getting this legislation passed.” she finished. 

    “I fully support the Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act, because it’s a critical step toward protecting student-athletes from a 100% preventable tragedy.” said Martin McNair, Jordan’s father. “This legislation will set lifesaving safety standards for both high school and college sports programs. As a father who lost his son to heat stroke, I know firsthand the cost of inaction. It’s time we make athlete safety non-negotiable.” Mr. McNair concluded.

    “Jordan McNair’s death was a heartbreaking and preventable tragedy. In honor of his memory, we’re working with his family to ensure college, university, and high school athletic programs are prepared to effectively recognize and quickly address heat-related illnesses.” said Senator Chris Van Hollen. “While I know the McNair family’s hearts will never fully heal, I am inspired that they have channeled their pain into purpose — together we will keep working to safeguard student athletes’ health and prevent others from facing the same unthinkable loss that they have.” he concluded.

    “The National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) is proud to support the Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act and applauds Congressman Kweisi Mfume for his leadership in prioritizing the health and safety of student athletes.” said NATA President AJ Duffy III, MS, ATC, PT.  “As the first line of defense in recognizing and responding to injuries and emergencies, athletic trainers understand the life-threatening risks posed by heat-related illnesses. While not every athlete has access to a certified athletic trainer, the implementation of emergency action plans ensures that critical, lifesaving protocols are in place when every second counts. These plans are essential tools that help protect young athletes and can truly mean the difference between life and death.” he finished. 

    An investigation conducted immediately after Jordan McNair’s death showed the athletic staff did not take aggressive measures to lower his body temperature. 

    The Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act will ensure high school and college athletic programs have heat emergency plans in action as well as cold-water immersion equipment so preventable tragedies like Jordan’s and the story of so many other student athletes won’t happen again. The legislation is endorsed by The Jordan McNair Foundation and the National Athletic Trainers’ Association.

    More Information on Jordan McNair

    • Jordan McNair was a freshman offensive lineman on the University of Maryland’s football team in 2018. On May 29, 2018, Jordan was taking a conditioning test that required 10 sets of 110-yard sprints. Jordan appeared to show signs of exhaustion during the sets of sprints. Jordan collapsed and was taken to the hospital before passing away two weeks later due to exertional heatstroke.
    • Jordan was demonstrating signs of an exertional heatstroke before he completed the sprints, but he was not treated with the care required to save his life. An hour passed before a trainer called 911, even after Jordan initially started showing symptoms.
    • Some report that University staff failed to see initial signs that Jordan was suffering from a heat illness and not being treated properly. Those reports also suggest staff did not check his core temperature, did not have proper cooling devices, and did not give emergency responders suitable directions to their location.
    • Dr. Rod Walters, a former college athletic trainer and a sports medicine consultant, led an investigation launched by the University. He concluded there was roughly 1 hour, 39 minutes between when McNair collapsed and the departure of his ambulance from campus.
    • The University of Maryland has taken subsequent steps to prevent and treat heat-related injuries among their student athletes: making cold water immersion tubs available at every practice and game, installing and maintaining readily accessible automatic defibrillators in every venue, increasing the number of doctors and trainers at practices and games, providing more recovery breaks, and increasing the training and reporting structure of athletic trainers, among other reforms in line with the priorities of this legislation.

    Click Here to access the Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act bill text.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Issa Introduces Legislation to Ban Foreign Purchase of American Land

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-50)

    WASHINGTON– Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) has introduced H.R. 4454 – the Safeguarding Invaluable Land (SOIL) Act – legislation to prohibit China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea from purchasing land within 10 miles of sensitive U.S. agencies and strategic sites, including military bases and federally funded research labs. 

    “Our country has a clear and compelling interest in preventing our adversaries from controlling property near the most sensitive and strategic sites in the American homeland,” said Rep. Issa. “The risks to national security are manifestly obvious, and we must move swiftly as a Congress and as a nation to counteract the spying and surveillance that is enabled when we allow our most hostile adversaries a foothold on American soil.” 

    Currently, affiliates and entities of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) own 384,000 acres of American agricultural land, a 30 percent increase since 2019 and more than $80 million in CCP-backed investments than 10 years ago. 

    Cosponsors of the SOIL Act include Congressman Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06), Congressman Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Congressman Rudy Yakym (IN-02), and Congresswoman Harriet Hageman (WY-At Large).

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: German Chancellor Calls Situation in Gaza ‘Unacceptable’

    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

    BERLIN, July 18 (Xinhua) — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday called the current situation in the Gaza Strip “unacceptable,” calling for an immediate ceasefire and comprehensive humanitarian aid to the local population.

    Speaking at a press conference in Berlin, F. Merz said that Germany, together with its partners, is working in close coordination to resolve the conflict in Gaza.

    The Chancellor stressed that Germany clearly states its position on certain developments in Israel, including the policy of building settlements in the West Bank, which “does not find approval in the German government.”

    According to a statement from the German federal government, Merz expressed hope for a speedy ceasefire in the Gaza Strip in a telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday.

    F. Merz said that urgently needed humanitarian aid must be delivered to the residents of the Gaza Strip in a safe and humane manner.

    According to the statement, the German Chancellor also stressed that there should be no steps towards annexation of the West Bank. –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 USA: Alford, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Recognizing the 509th and 131st Bomb Wings’ Successful Execution of Operation Midnight Hammer

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Alford (Missouri 4th District)

    Today, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) was joined by Congressmen Tony Gonzales (TX-23) and Don Davis (NC-01) in introducing a House Resolution to congratulate the Airmen of the 509th and 131st Bomb Wings for successfully completing Operation Midnight Hammer.

    “Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, Operation Midnight Hammer was executed with unparalleled coordination, precision, and competence to decapitate Iran’s nuclear program,” said Congressman Alford. “The men and women of the 509th and 131st Bomb Wings out of Whiteman Air Force Base showed their exemplary dedication and skill. They deserve the recognition of the American people’s elected representatives. That’s why I’m proud to introduce this Resolution to honor their service and success.”

    “The B-2s’ historic precision strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities highlighted the unparalleled capability of the United States military, as well as the exceptional bravery of the bomber and fighter pilots, crew members, and maintenance teams who flawlessly executed the mission,” said Congressman Davis. “These individuals are our heroes who have effectively worked to protect America and our allies in response to increasing threats from the Iranian regime and its terrorist proxies.”

    “During my 20 years of military service, including multiple campaigns in the Middle East, I served side by side with the finest troops in the world. No matter what the mission is, American servicemembers always rise to the challenge, and Operation Midnight Hammer in Iran is no exception. There is no other military in the world that could have executed a precision strike on nuclear sites with such excellence, and the men and women who made it happen deserve full recognition for their efforts,” said Congressman Tony Gonzales.

    Read the full text of the resolution here.

    The resolution is also cosponsored by Rep. John Carter (TX-31), Rep. Sam Graves (MO-06), and Rep. Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06).

    Missouri’s Fourth Congressional District, which Congressman Alford represents, includes Whiteman Air Force Base, home of the B-2 Stealth Bomber, the Air Force’s 509th Bomb Wing, and the Air National Guard’s 131st Bomb Wing. Congressman Alford is also the Co-chair of the Congressional Long Range Strike Caucus.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Moran Votes to Strengthen National Defense and Support America’s Servicemembers

    Source: Congressman Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01)

    Congressman Moran Votes to Strengthen National Defense and Support America’s Servicemembers

    The FY26 Defense Appropriations Bill Reins in Wasteful Spending and Invests in Military Readiness

    Washington, D.C., July 18, 2025

    Congressman Nathaniel Moran (R-TX-01) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Act (H.R. 4016), which passed the U.S. House of Representatives today:

    “Under President Trump’s leadership, we’re finally rebuilding the strength and resolve of our Armed Forces. This bill reflects that effort—by investing in servicemembers, eliminating waste, countering foreign threats like China and Iran, and ensuring our defense dollars are focused on combat readiness, not left-wing social experiments.

    “The FY26 Defense Appropriations Act supports our troops, prioritizes taxpayer accountability, and delivers critical investments for military families across East Texas. I was proud to vote for this bill and will continue standing with those who defend our nation.”

    Securing Texas Wins

    • Increases funding for pay and benefits for active-duty military and reserve personnel across all branches, including over $10.2 billion for the Army National Guard and $5.3 billion for the Air National Guard, both with strong Texas footprints.
    • Delivers $575+ million for environmental restoration across Army, Navy, and Air Force installations, including former sites in Texas.
    • Provides over $36.9 billion for shipbuilding and naval modernization, supporting Gulf Coast industrial jobs tied to defense manufacturing.
    • Maintains support for hypersonic and next-generation weapons research, much of which is based in Texas institutions.

    Cutting Waste, Refocusing Defense Priorities

    • Saves taxpayer dollars by reducing inefficient Pentagon programs and bureaucratic offices.
    • Blocks efforts to consolidate legislative liaison offices that reduce transparency and Congressional oversight.

    Securing the Border and Combating Terrorism 

    • Fully funds $357 million for the Counter-ISIS Train and Equip Fund, including tight vetting restrictions to prevent funding terrorist-linked individuals or groups.
    • Expands National Guard and Reserve Equipment Procurement by $800 million, bolstering homeland defense and disaster response readiness.
    • Allocating approximately $13 billion for missile defense and space programs to augment and integrate in support of the Golden Dome effort.

    Deterring China, Iran, and Other Foreign Adversaries

    • Increases funding for DOD’s Cooperative Threat Reduction program ($282 million) to reduce chemical, biological, and nuclear risks, particularly from regimes like Iran and North Korea.
    • Provides new authority and funding for DOD-led cybersecurity and supply chain risk reduction to block Chinese espionage and hacking efforts.

    Ensuring Oversight & Accountability

    • Requires quarterly public reporting to Congress on use of funds for foreign military assistance and classified operations.
    • Expands restrictions on use of funds for procurement from countries hostile to U.S. national security interests.

    You can learn more about the FY26 Defense Appropriations Act HERE.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Professor Benedict Oramah recognised for long service as Export Trading Group (ETG), TRACE, KCB and CBZ toast award success at 32nd Afreximbank Annual Meetings

    Source: APO – Report:

    Key Highlights

    • The third edition of the Pan-African Business and Development Awards has recognised and celebrated leading businesses on the continent and in the diaspora in alignment with Afreximbank’s push for a promotion of a Global Africa
    • Marking his distinguished tenor, Professor Benedict Oramah, outgoing Afreximbank President, was honoured with the Bank’s Long Service Award alongside other employees
    • Export Trading Group (ETG) won the Global Africa Business Leader Award 2025 for fostering economic growth across the continent and enhancing food security
    • KCB Group Plc, Kenya and CBZ Bank, Zimbabwe emerged winners of the Afreximbank Financial Institutions Award 2025 for banking institutions with more than $500m and less than $500m capital respectively for having played a pivotal role in bridging the trade finance gap in Africa.
    • TRACE, a multimedia platform dedicated to the entertainment and empowerment of people of African descent won the Diaspora Business of the Year Award for their impact in strengthening continental and diaspora ties.

    African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) hosted the third edition of the Pan-African Business and Development Awards in association with the Business Council for Africa (BCA) on Wednesday June 25, 2025, at a colourful Gala Dinner attended by more than 400 dignitaries including business and political leaders from Nigeria, across Africa and the diaspora.

    The Pan-African Business and Development Awards, held annually during the Afreximbank Annual Meetings, are designed to celebrate and recognise transformative businesses and financial institutions within the African continent and in the diaspora in keeping with the Bank’s vision for a Global Africa.

    Export Trading Group (ETG), operational in nearly 20 countries on the continent, won the Global Africa Business Leader Award, 2025 for fostering economic growth across the continent and enhancing food security by connecting smallholder farmers with regional and global markets, improving livelihoods and boosting intra-African trade, reflecting Afreximbank’s mandate of fostering trade and economic growth across the continent. The company’s investments in storage, logistics, and processing infrastructure have helped reduce post-harvest losses and increased value addition.

    This year, TRACE, the multimedia platform dedicated to the entertainment and empowerment of people of African descent, won the Diaspora Business of the Year award for its impact in strengthening continental and diaspora ties through the vehicle of entertainment. Its mission is to uplift African identity through music, education, and storytelling. TRACE’s platforms reach and support over 5,000 artists and 1,000 brands annually. It employs hundreds across Africa, contributing hundreds of millions of dollars in value.

    Two banking giants were recognised in the Afreximbank Financial Institutions Award–2025. KCB Group Plc, Kenya’s largest bank by assets emerged winner of the award for banking institutions with more than $500m capital while CBZ Bank, also Zimbabwe’s largest Bank emerged winner of the Afreximbank Financial Institutions Award-2025 for banking institutions with less than $500m capital.

    KCB, which won in the same category in 2024, was recognised for facilitating local and cross-border trade finance through various products as well as mitigating risks inherent in trade on behalf of its customers. One of the first East African banks to enhance financial inclusion and economic growth, it has positioned itself as an enabler for businesses and consumers to transact efficiently across African borders.

    CBZ Bank from Zimbabwe has played a pivotal role in bridging the trade finance gap in Africa by leveraging strategic partnerships, introducing innovative products, and executing a comprehensive pan-African vision. During the 31st Afreximbank Annual meetings held in Nassau, The Bahamas last year, CBZ Bank and Afreximbank inked two deals (https://apo-opa.co/44ZDCxm) totalling $80 million consisting of US$60 million line of credit and $20 million Afreximbank Trade Facilitation Programme (AFTRAF) facility signalling their continued collaboration aimed at promoting economic development.

    In a speech delivered on behalf of Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of Board of Directors at Afreximbank, the Bank’s Senior Executive Vice President, Denys Denya, said: “This Awards event is our way of saying thank you to everyone who, regardless of size or significance of your role, has contributed to furthering the course of development in Africa. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you. With these awards, we reaffirm our commitment to the shared goal of transforming the African economy and restoring the dignity of Africans, regardless of their geographic location.”

    Arnold Ekpe, former group CEO of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated and chair of the BCA, in his remarks, commented on the importance of recognising and celebrating institutions that contribute to Africa’s development, which he said, “has become the defining essence of Afreximbank.”

    A major highlight of the awards ceremony was the recognition of four long serving Afreximbank staff members for their dedicated service of between 25 and 30 years. This esteemed group included Professor Benedict Oramah who was honoured for over three decades at the Bank with ten years spent at the helm as President and Chairman of Board of Directors.

    Presenting the long service award to Prof. Oramah, Wale Edun, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy said: “Tonight, we acknowledge not just a remarkable career, but a transformative journey spanning three decades. Under your leadership, the bank hasn’t just scaled; it has soared, championing strategies that have fundamentally reshaped trade and development across Africa. Nigeria is incredibly proud of your achievements, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to the economic prosperity of our continent. You are a true son of the soil; a shining example of what dedication and vision can accomplish.”

    The Pan-African Business and Development Awards are hosted by Afreximbank in association with the BCA. The awards series was launched in 2023 to recognise those organisations and leaders that epitomise the pan-African spirit by leading the way in building substantive and transformative cross-border businesses.

    – on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

    Follow on Social Media: 
    X: https://apo-opa.co/4nVC0NN
    Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/44SE54f 
    LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/459VM0t 
    Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/44WtHZo

    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 –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Champagne concludes successful G7 and G20 meetings in South Africa

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    July 18, 2025 – Durban, South Africa – Department of Finance Canada

    With global political and economic uncertainty abounding, strong relationships and cross-continental collaboration with reliable nations has never been more important. Canada is spearheading a new era of collaboration and partnership with nations it can trust and whose priorities it shares.

    The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and National Revenue, today concluded his participation in the G7 and G20 meetings of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) in Durban, South Africa – a key engagement under Canada’s ongoing G7 Presidency and a demonstration of Canada’s commitment to strong international partnerships.

    At the G20 meeting, Minister Champagne outlined Canada’s vision for the global economy, as well as for the international financial architecture, international taxation and ways to improve longer-term growth prospects for Africa. Discussions during the meeting included the importance of sustainable finance and the role of resilient infrastructure in supporting economic development.

    The Minister leveraged the occasion to engage in a series of bilateral meetings with his counterparts, further strengthening Canada’s relationships and fostering collaboration with key global partners. This included meetings with Ministers from Indonesia, Australia, the United Arab Emirates, Norway, Sweden, Singapore, Italy, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia and  Japan, along with pull-asides with South Africa and Denmark.

    On the margins of the G20 meeting, Minister Champagne co-chaired with Tiff Macklem, Governor of the Bank of Canada, the fourth G7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ meeting under Canada’s G7 Presidency. Discussions focused on ways to work together to reduce the ongoing trade and economic policy uncertainty, notably by establishing new uninterrupted trade routes with reliable partners and lifting existing barriers to trade. Russia’s illegal and unjust war against Ukraine, and actions to improve supply chain resilience including for critical minerals, were also discussed. Australia and South Korea joined the discussion on supply chains.

    During a short stay in Cape Town prior to the G7 and G20 meetings, Minister Champagne also met with local business leaders and government officials to advance Canada’s goals of partnership, economic development and innovation. 

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Israel is exploiting the vacuum left by southern Syria’s sectarian clashes and a weak state

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Rob Geist Pinfold, Lecturer in International Security, King’s College London

    Several days of bitter sectarian fighting in the south of Syria has brought the fledgling government in Damascus dangerously close to direct conflict with Israel, after Israeli warplanes launched strikes against government buildings in the Syrian capital, Damascus, on July 16.

    The United Nations and a number of countries condemned the attacks, which the UN secretary general, Antonio Guterres, said were “escalatory airstrikes”. Yet Israeli defence minister, Israel Katz, triumphantly used the social media site X to post a video of a Syrian news anchor diving for cover during the strikes.

    Efforts to agree a ceasefire in the region have faltered and fighting between Druze and Bedouin militias in the southern Syrian province of Sweida is understood to have resumed. The BBC has reported that at least 600 people have been killed in the fighting so far.

    The violence was seemingly sparked by a petty crime. On July 11, a Bedouin gang allegedly kidnapped and robbed a Druze merchant and the road between Sweida and Damascus. This prompted a series of tit-for-tat sectarian kidnappings and killings.

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

    On July 14, Syrian security forces entered the province to restore order, only to be ambushed by Druze fighters. Reports of these fighters executing government forces caused outrage throughout the country. Syria’s government then sent more troops, including tanks and heavy weapons.

    But as these reinforcements arrived, they were met by a new challenge: more deadly and prolific Israeli airstrikes against government forces.

    Weak central government

    This cycle of violence exemplifies the underlying cause of the recent conflict. Syria’s interim central government lacks the credibility and capacity to exert its authority throughout the country.

    This is particularly true in Sweida, which has been de facto autonomous for many years. The overstretched Assad regime largely withdrew from the province, during the decade of civil war. When his regime fell, many of the local militias which had served as Sweida’s de facto rulers were reluctant to surrender their weapons.

    The recent violence exemplifies why this is a problem. Absent a strong local state, Druze militias took it upon themselves to exact justice, allegedly leading them to attack innocent Bedouins. This led the Bedouins to mobilise in self-defence. There are reports of violence and summary executions on both sides and also by government troops.

    Syria’s Druze have good reason not to trust the new regime in Damascus, given the latter’s jihadist roots and history of anti-Druze violence during the civil war. The Sweida Military Council (SMC), a Druze militia led by the Venezualan-born cleric, Hikmet al-Hiji, were hostile to the new government almost from the outset. Other Druze militias in Sweida and elsewhere, however, were in tentative negotiations with Damascus to integrate into government control.

    That would be a welcome and necessary step for creating trust in Syria’s new administration and increasing its capacity and capability to rule throughout the country.

    But this process has now been derailed. Damascus’s mass mobilisation of troops, tanks and heavy weapons was condemned by all Sweida’s Druze factions, including those formerly close to the government. Some of these groups even fought the advancing security forces.

    After government troops withdrew as part of the most recent ceasefire agreement, the province has quickly returned to the same chaotic militia rule that first caused the violence. Bedouin militias have already rejected the ceasefire and resumed hostilities against their Druze rivals.

    Israel’s position

    The recent violence has not only exacerbated sectarian tensions throughout Syria, it has also disrupted the tentative Israel-Syria peace process. Just one week ago, observers speculated that Israel and Syria might normalise relations. That now looks increasingly unlikely.

    When the Assad regime fell in December 2024, Israel occupied swaths of Syrian territory and launched an unprecedented number of strikes throughout the country. Under heavy US pressure, though, Israel moderated its policies. It even began direct negotiations with Syria’s new government.

    But as the conflict in southern Syria escalated, Jerusalem warned Damascus that a mass deployment of the state’s security forces within the province would cross a red line, because it would bring Syrian troops close to Israel’s borders. It would also endanger Syria’s Druze, a community that Israel’s government have sworn to protect.

    But the fledgling Syrian government has said it aims to be an inclusive, centrally run – rather than a federal – state, so it has to bring Druze and other minorities, such as Syria’s Kurds, into the fold and put an end to the sectarian clashes.

    By subsequently escalating its attacks, killing more members of the state security forces than since the Assad regime fell and humiliating the government by destroying its institutions in Damascus, Israel got the result it wanted.

    It did so, according to Benjamin Netanyahu, through “forceful actions”. The Israel prime minister told journalists on July 17 that: “We have established a clear policy: the demilitarization of the area south of Damascus and the protection of our brothers, the Druze.”

    Israel was faced with a choice: continue imposing its will on Syria militarily, or cooperate with the country’s new government. It has apparently chosen the former.

    The fact is that in Sweida, and elsewhere in the fractured country, Syria remains a state with too many guns, gangs, militias and powerful external interests vying for control. Its heterogeneous population increasingly distrust one another and rely on their own ethno-religious groups to fulfil the responsibilities that a weak and distrusted central government cannot.

    That distrust continues to flare into open violence in southern Syria. And it appears there is little the fragile central government can do about it.

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

    – ref. Israel is exploiting the vacuum left by southern Syria’s sectarian clashes and a weak state – https://theconversation.com/israel-is-exploiting-the-vacuum-left-by-southern-syrias-sectarian-clashes-and-a-weak-state-261482

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Louisiana Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Unauthorized Archaeological Digging of Arrowheads and Illegal Possession of a Firearm

    Source: US FBI

    ALEXANDRIA, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that Roy Everett Jordan, Jr., 57, of Georgetown, Louisiana, has been sentenced for the unauthorized removal of archaeological resources and illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. United States District Judge Dee D. Drell sentenced Jordan to 24 months in prison for the archeological crime, and another 6 months in prison for the firearm possession, for a total of 30 months in prison. After release from prison, Jordan will be on supervised release for 2 years. 

    Jordan was convicted by a federal jury in March of these offenses. Evidence at the trial revealed that U.S. Forest Service agents learned in 2022 that there had been unauthorized digging at four Native American archaeological sites in the Kisatchie National Forest in the Grant Parish, Louisiana. The digging had been done in places where arrowheads and other human-altered stones were known to be present. Through their investigation, agents obtained photo evidence of Jordan being in the area where the digging was taking place. Just a few hours after photo evidence was taken of him conducting unauthorized digging, Jordan made a post on social media about a find that he had made that day in that location and the piece of pottery he found. 

    A search warrant was obtained for Jordan’s residence and upon execution of that warrant, agents found numerous arrowheads and pottery shards. A table covered in a camouflage cloth was found which matched the photo Jordan had posted on social media. In addition, there was an outbuilding/shed on the property that was full of Jordan’s belongings and numerous arrowheads and pottery shards in multiple places. Agents found clothing in the shed that matched what Jordan had worn in the photo evidence that was obtained by law enforcement agents. In addition, agents found and seized a loaded ISSC semi-automatic .22 caliber pistol. Jordan has three prior felony convictions prohibiting him from possessing any firearm or ammunition. 

    The case was investigated by the U.S. Forest Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisiana State Police and Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William C. Gaskins.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks Votes to Pass Defense Bill That Delivers Raise for Service Members, Strengthens National Security

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ (IA-02)

    Washington, D.C. – Last night, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 4016, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2026, which fully funds the U.S. military, delivers a well-deserved pay raise for our servicemembers, and reinforces America’s military superiority at home and abroad.

    “This bill gives our troops the pay raise they deserve and the resources they need to defend this country,” said Miller-Meeks. “It protects jobs at home, advances our refueling capabilities, and preserves our military history. I’ll keep fighting to strengthen our national defense, support Iowa’s workforce, and put America’s security first.”

    Miller-Meeks Amendments Included in H.R. 4016:

    The legislation includes two amendments authored by Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks that protect defense jobs in Iowa and invest in next-generation aerial refueling technology to enhance combat effectiveness and operational safety. The bill also ensures the Rock Island Arsenal Museum remains open to preserve our military history and honor the service of generations of Americans.

    Miller-Meeks Amendment 235 – Preserving Military History

    • Blocks any funding from being used to close the Rock Island Arsenal Museum, one of the oldest military museums in the country, protecting a vital part of America’s military heritage.

    Miller-Meeks Amendment 453 – Advancing Next-Generation Aerial Refueling Systems

    • Transfers funding to support the development of advanced air-to-air refueling technologies that improve pilot safety, increase mission effectiveness, and reduce fuel usage.

    Miller-Meeks is also working closely with Defense Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman Ken Calvert (CA-41) to strengthen the workforce protections in Amendment 234 and close any potential loopholes that could harm Army arsenals. A revised version of the amendment will be offered during conference negotiations.

    More on the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2026:

    Troop Support:

    • Increases basic pay 3.8% for all military personnel effective January 1, 2026.
    • Continues historic FY25 pay raises for junior enlisted service members.

    Ending Woke and Wasteful Spending:

    • Codifies President Trump’s orders to end DEI programs.
    • Prohibits taxpayer funding for sex-change surgeries, abortion-related travel, drag shows, and COVID mandates.
    • Codifies DoD cooperation with the DOGE Office and streamlines Pentagon management.

    Restoring Combat Readiness and Military Superiority:

    • Boosts funding for 5th and 6th generation aircraft like the F-35, F-47, and F/A-XX.
    • Modernizes the nuclear triad, including the B-21 Raider, Columbia Class Submarine, and Sentinel.
    • Provides $13 billion for missile defense and space programs and over $2.6 billion for hypersonics.

    Border Security and Counter-Drug Operations:

    • Provides $1.15 billion for counterdrug programs, $245 million above the request.
    • Increases National Guard Counterdrug Program funding.
    • Moves Mexico from NORTHCOM to SOUTHCOM for better threat coordination.

    Countering Adversaries and Supporting Allies:

    • $500 million for Taiwan Security Cooperation.
    • $500 million for Israeli Missile Defense.
    • $7 billion for classified space superiority programs.

    A 24-year Army veteran, Congresswoman Miller-Meeks has consistently fought to protect our defense workforce, safeguard key installations like Rock Island Arsenal, and ensure taxpayer funds support mission-critical operations. Her amendments to the FY26 defense appropriations bill reflect that mission.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Merkley, Van Hollen, Sanders Denounce Threats to West Bank Communities 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Following Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the United States last week, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) joined U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) in issuing the following statement in response to the Israeli Higher Planning Council’s directive on June 18 to reject all zoning and building permits in Masafer Yatta that are not compliant with Israeli military training needs: 
    “We are deeply alarmed by the Israeli Higher Planning Council’s decision to reject all planning and zoning requests in Masafer Yatta that do not align with the Israeli Defense Force’s training needs. This directive places at least 12 Palestinian villages under the threat of imminent demolition – all while illegal Israeli outposts in the area remain untouched. 
    “For decades, the Israeli government has denied residents of Masafer Yatta building permits, confiscated their agricultural lands, and demolished key infrastructure. Taken as a whole, the Council’s decision as well as the recent announcement of 22 new settlements across the West Bank, rising extremist settler violence, and a petition from cabinet ministers urging Netanyahu to apply Israeli sovereignty and law over the West Bank before the end of the month, advance a broader project of de jure and de facto Israeli annexation aimed at preventing the formation of a future Palestinian state. Forced evictions, demolitions, settler violence, and rapid settlement expansion all exacerbate tensions in an already volatile region and put any peaceful future for Israelis and Palestinians further out of reach. 
    “With the ceasefire between Israel and Iran still tenuous and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza already dire, the Netanyahu government’s continued reckless policy in the West Bank is deeply alarming. The Masafer Yatta directive is part of that trajectory, one that pushes us further from a future Palestinian state living peacefully alongside the state of Israel and toward permanent occupation. 
    “We refuse to look away from the injustice unfolding in Masafer Yatta and the escalating violence in the West Bank at large, which has now claimed the lives of five Palestinian Americans since October 7. To ensure lasting peace and stability in the region, we call on the Israeli government to revoke the Higher Planning Council’s directive, impose an immediate moratorium on all demolitions and evictions, halt further military training exercises in Masafer Yatta, and take immediate action to de-escalate the growing violence in the West Bank.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sovereign Base Areas Specialised Committee meeting: joint statement

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Sovereign Base Areas Specialised Committee meeting: joint statement

    Joint statement following the sixth meeting of the Withdrawal Agreement Specialised Committee on issues related to the implementation of the Protocol relating to the Sovereign Base Areas of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in Cyprus

    The sixth meeting of the Specialised Committee on issues related to the implementation of the Protocol relating to the Sovereign Base Areas in Cyprus was held on 3 July 2025, co-chaired by officials from the European Commission and the UK Government.

    The Committee was established by the Withdrawal Agreement to facilitate the implementation and application of the Protocol. The co-chairs reviewed the operational phase of the implementation of the Protocol since its last meeting in December 2023. This review showed that implementation is operating well in most areas.  

    Both sides reaffirmed their continued commitment to the smooth implementation of the Protocol and agreed to finalise further technical discussions with the objective of reaching a common understanding on the correct implementation of the Protocol in the area of taxation (Article 3 of the Protocol) and fisheries (Article 6 of the Protocol) as a matter of priority. The Specialised Committee will revert to this issue immediately afterwards.

    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 18 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK statement: response to E1 settlement plan in the occupied West Bank

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK statement: response to E1 settlement plan in the occupied West Bank

    The UK has issued a statement in response to the announcement by Israel’s Civil Administration to reintroduce the E1 settlement plan in the occupied West Bank

    A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) spokesperson said:

    The UK strongly opposes the announcement by the central planning bureau of Israel’s Civil Administration to reintroduce the E1 settlement plan, frozen since 2021.

    This plan would build over 3000 houses to the east of Jerusalem, dividing a future Palestinian state in two, and marking a flagrant breach of international law.

    If implemented, the E1 settlement plan would critically undermine the two-state solution – the only route to a lasting peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.

    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 18 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Loudermilk on Recissions Package Passed in House – U.S. Representative Barry Loudermilk

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Barry Loudermilk (R-GA)

    Washington, D.C. (July 18, 2025) | Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11) issued the following statement after the House passed The Recissions Act of 2025 (Senate Amendment to H.R. 4):

    “House Republicans have passed President Trump’s recissions bill, which makes permanent several of the spending cuts made previously by executive order. President Trump campaigned on cutting wasteful government spending, and Congressional Republicans have delivered, saving American taxpayers $9 billion that was slated to go to programs such as far-left, government-funded programming and unchecked foreign assistance.

    “This legislation, coupled with the reconciliation bill signed into law on July 4, are significant steps towards reigning in out-of-control big government spending, improving fiscal responsibility, and delivering on the historic mandate given at the ballot box. While our work will continue, this is a major step toward ensuring future generations of Americans have a nation that is free, safe, and full of opportunity.”

    Funds to be rescinded (cut) include:

    – $1.2 million for LGBTQI+ programs in Uganda and the Western Balkans
    – $833K for trans sex workers in Nepal
    -$3 million for Iraqi Sesame Street
    – $2.5 million to teach kids eco-friendly reproductive health
    – $500K for electric buses in Rwanda
    – $6 million for “net zero cities” in Mexico
    – $1 million to promote voter ID in Haiti
    – $5.1 million to strengthen the global queer movement
    – $3 million for condoms and productive procedures in Zambia

    Click here to read full bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Invests in Military Families, U.S. National Security

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) voted to advance H.R. 4016, the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Act. The bill, which appropriates funding for the Department of Defense (DoD) for the 2026 fiscal year, affirms President Trump’s commitment to achieving peace through strength while improving quality of life for U.S. service members. Rep. Mann released the following statement after the vote:

    “Every hour of every day, service members across the globe put their lives on the line to protect our freedoms,” said Rep. Mann. “As national security threats increase, it is essential that we make adequate investments in our military readiness, defense capabilities, and morale of our service members to ensure the United States can appropriately respond to any substantial threat from our adversaries or other bad actors. I proudly voted to advance the defense appropriations bill, which supports our troops, bolsters our border security, and gives President Trump the tools he needs to advance American peace through strength. God bless America and God bless our troops.”

    The Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Act:

    • Includes a 3.8% increase for all military personnel and service members effective January 1, 2026
    • Improves quality of life, readiness, and continuity for service members by slowing permanent change of station moves, saving over $662 million
    • Codifies the DoD’s cooperation with DOGE and streamlines functions and management improvements at the Pentagon
    • Provides $1.5 billion for counter drug programs and increases funding for the National Guard Counterdrug Program
    • Prohibits funding for abortion-related travel, drag shows, and COVID vaccine and mask mandates
    • Provides funding for the Israeli Cooperative Missile Defense Programs and cooperative development programs

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strong Votes to Bolster American Military Strength

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Dale Strong, member of the Appropriations Committee, voted last night in support of H.R. 4016, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2026. The vital legislation provides funding that underscores a steadfast commitment to reinforcing America’s military superiority, shapes a more efficient and effective Department of Defense (DoD), protects U.S. assets at home and abroad, and takes care of troops and their families. The legislation passed the U.S. House of Representatives on a 221-209 vote. 

    “This legislation makes essential, strategic investments to defend and protect the American people from growing global threats. The best deterrence is readiness. As the aggressive postures of Russia, China, and Iran continue to grow, we must prioritize the development of defense capabilities to provide our men and women in uniform with the very best resources and training,” said Representative Dale Strong. “This funding bolsters America’s military superiority and invests in missile defense and space programs to support the Golden Dome initiatives – a workforce that is part of the very fabric of North Alabama while remaining laser-focused on our military’s warfighting mission.” 
     
    SUPPORTS OUR TROOPS & FAMILIES 

    • Provides a 3.8% pay increase for America’s dedicated service members.
    • Funds comprehensive training and equips an agile, highly capable force.
    • Takes measures to reduce permanent change of station (PCS) moves, fostering greater stability and predictability for military personnel and their families.

    ENSURES MILITARY SUPERIORITY AND AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL DOMINANCE 

    • Allocates $13 billion towards advanced initiatives in support of the Golden Dome for America. 
    • Invests billions in national security missile and space programs, including missile warning and tracking, to ensure the military has real-time global situational awareness.
    • Commits to the modernization of America’s nuclear triad, a cornerstone of strategic deterrence.
    • Directs each military service to provide a report listing the service’s total munitions requirements and capacity. 

    INVESTS IN THE FUTURE FORCE  

    • Encourages the DOD to continue and expand partnerships with academia to create a pipeline of students with security clearances, enabling immediate employment across ranges, laboratories, and installations upon graduation.
    • Expresses Congressional support for the DoD’s use of Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) within various programs.
    • Provides a $400 million funding increase for the Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT) program. 

    STRENGTHENS BORDER SECURITY 

    • Allocates $1.15 billion to efforts combating international cartel drug trafficking to enhance national security at our borders.
    • Increases funding for the National Guard counterdrug program, reinforcing interdiction capabilities to stop harmful drugs before they reach the homeland. 

    DEFENDS OUR VALUES BY ENDING WOKE FUNDING  

    • Reaffirms the DoD’s core mission by prohibiting funding for non-essential programs, including Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and Critical Race Theory (CRT).
    • Eliminates funding to support abortion travel and censorship, ensuring all DoD resources are concentrated on direct defense objectives.
    • The Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2026, is the second of 12 annual appropriations bills to pass the House of Representatives.   

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar Strongly Condemns Israeli Plan to Seize Control of Ibrahimi Mosque

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Doha – July 18, 2025

    The State of Qatar strongly condemns the Israeli occupation’s plan to transfer the administration and supervision of the Ibrahimi Mosque from the Palestinian Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs and the Hebron Municipality to the Jewish Religious Council in the Kiryat Arba settlement. Qatar views this move as a blatant violation of international law and United Nations resolutions, and as a deliberate provocation against Muslims worldwide.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirms Qatar’s firm rejection of any attempts to alter the historical and legal status quo of the Ibrahimi Mosque and other holy sites in the occupied Palestinian territories. It urges the international community to fulfill its moral and legal responsibilities by protecting religious sanctities in Palestine and pressuring the Israeli occupation authorities to abandon their efforts to erase the Palestinian people’s identity.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • India-UAE Partnership Eyes Nuclear Energy and Advanced Technology as Next Breakthrough Sectors

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India and the United Arab Emirates are solidifying their strategic partnership, setting their sights on nuclear energy and advanced technology as the next frontiers for collaboration. This move comes as bilateral trade has already surged past the $100 billion mark, five years ahead of schedule, cementing the UAE’s position as India’s third-largest trade partner. Speaking at an Observer Research Foundation Middle East event in Dubai, Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, highlighted how both nations are leveraging their unique strengths to forge resilient supply chains and foster sustainable growth, moving beyond traditional trade ties.

    Intensified high-level diplomatic engagement since September 2024, including visits from Sheikh Khalid and Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan to India, has focused on substantive economic cooperation. Discussions during Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan’s visit with Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal underscored the significant role of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in accelerating bilateral trade, particularly progress on the Virtual Trade Corridor, a foundational element of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC). UAE investments in India have reached $23 billion, with a notable $4.5 billion committed in 2024 alone, following the finalization of the Bilateral Investment Treaty last year. Furthermore, local currency trade settlement now accounts for 10 percent of all bilateral transactions, reducing dependence on dollar-denominated exchanges.

    A significant stride in financial technology integration is the UAE’s Jaywan card, built entirely on India’s rupee card stack. Plans are also underway to connect banking messaging systems, offering an alternative to SWIFT networks, and to integrate India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with the UAE’s Aani platform by November 2025, enabling Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) interoperability. Educational cooperation has also seen tangible results with the launch of IIT Abu Dhabi’s PhD program this year, alongside IIM Ahmedabad’s Dubai campus and IIFT Dubai. Defense collaboration has been elevated to the secretary level, featuring joint exercises such as Desert Cyclone, Desert Flag, and the India-France-UAE Trilateral Exercise, and extends to participation in major defense exhibitions like IDEX and Dubai Airshow, with 25 Indian companies actively involved. Hardware integration initiatives include components for the Tejas fighter aircraft and the development of drone and anti-drone systems.

    Nuclear cooperation is emerging as a transformative area, with the UAE currently generating 25 percent of its energy from nuclear sources (5.6 GW capacity) and aiming to double this by 2030. The Partnership for Accelerating Clean Energy (PACE) initiative involving the US, UAE, , coupled with synergies with France, positions nuclear energy as a key growth sector. The advanced technology partnership gained momentum at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024.

    Discussions are also underway for collaboration in critical minerals and the space sector, including polar initiatives. The IMEEC project envisions a comprehensive connectivity corridor for containers, data, and energy through connected grids and subsea cables. The I2U2 framework (India, Israel, UAE, US) is expanding its focus to food security, with plans for two food parks in Gujarat and renewable energy projects targeting 60 GW capacity in Gujarat and Rajasthan. Ambassador Sudhir emphasized the potential benefits for India from the UAE’s 25 other Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs), which could provide diversified market access and manufacturing advantages, particularly for energy-intensive industries. The UAE’s recent inclusion in BRICS further enhances its role as a strategic gateway for India’s engagement with Africa through initiatives like Bharat Africa Setu. The legal predictability and stable environment in the UAE also make it an attractive destination for Indian manufacturing investments requiring significant energy inputs.

    Culturally, the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi stands as a powerful symbol of the shared ethos, religious tolerance, and cultural inclusivity underpinning the broader strategic relationship, a testament to the graciousness of the Abu Dhabi government. As both nations navigate global economic uncertainties, their partnership exemplifies how complementary strengths can foster resilient supply chains and sustainable growth models, with nuclear energy and advanced technology at the forefront of their expanding cooperation.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Norcross Votes ‘NO’ on Trump-Republican Cuts to Humanitarian Aid, Infectious Disease Prevention, Public Broadcasting

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Donald Norcross (1st District of New Jersey)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ) voted against the Trump-Republican rescissions package to cut humanitarian aid, infectious disease prevention, and public broadcasting.  

    “I voted against the disastrous Trump-Republican cuts that would take away food from hungry kids, make it easier for infectious diseases to spread, make America less safe, and cut off rural communities’ access to emergency information and severe weather alerts. It’s a reckless bill that puts billionaires first and working families last,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “The cuts do nothing to address the cost-of-living crisis and only continue the efforts by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to starve the American people of government resources and weaken the United States’ power on the world stage.” 

    The Trump-Republican Recissions Package would result in:  

    • $1.1 billion in cuts to PBS funding, hurting families who rely on public TV and radio to support their children’s education and stay informed about the day’s news.  
    • $500 million in cuts to USAID Global Health Programs that prevent the spread of infectious diseases across the world and into the U.S. 
    • $202 million in cuts to UN-affiliated organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency, which monitors nuclear weapons and chemical weapons in Iran. 
    • 142 million in cuts to the United Nations’ Children’s Fund (UNICEF), a program that provides humanitarian aid to children in developing nations. 
    • $22 million in cuts to the African Development Foundation, which provides food to starving kids. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Norcross Votes ‘NO’ on Trump-Republican Cuts to Humanitarian Aid, Infectious Disease Prevention, Public Broadcasting

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Donald Norcross (1st District of New Jersey)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ) voted against the Trump-Republican rescissions package to cut humanitarian aid, infectious disease prevention, and public broadcasting.  

    “I voted against the disastrous Trump-Republican cuts that would take away food from hungry kids, make it easier for infectious diseases to spread, make America less safe, and cut off rural communities’ access to emergency information and severe weather alerts. It’s a reckless bill that puts billionaires first and working families last,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “The cuts do nothing to address the cost-of-living crisis and only continue the efforts by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to starve the American people of government resources and weaken the United States’ power on the world stage.” 

    The Trump-Republican Recissions Package would result in:  

    • $1.1 billion in cuts to PBS funding, hurting families who rely on public TV and radio to support their children’s education and stay informed about the day’s news.  
    • $500 million in cuts to USAID Global Health Programs that prevent the spread of infectious diseases across the world and into the U.S. 
    • $202 million in cuts to UN-affiliated organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency, which monitors nuclear weapons and chemical weapons in Iran. 
    • 142 million in cuts to the United Nations’ Children’s Fund (UNICEF), a program that provides humanitarian aid to children in developing nations. 
    • $22 million in cuts to the African Development Foundation, which provides food to starving kids. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATE: Met reiterates warning on support for proscribed organisations ahead of Saturday protests

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    There will be an increased police presence in Westminster on Saturday when a number of protests are due to take place.

    A march organised by the Palestine Coalition will go from Victoria Embankment to Whitehall via Westminster Bridge, Waterloo Bridge and the Strand. Speeches will take place in Whitehall following the march.

    A static protest organised by Stop the Hate, in opposition to the Palestine Coalition march, will take place at the junction of the Strand and Waterloo Bridge.

    Discussions are ongoing with the organisers of both protests and details of any conditions in place will be published on Friday.

    We are also expecting further protest activity in support of Palestine Action which is a group now proscribed under the Terrorism Act. Similar protests have taken place in Parliament Square for the past two weekends, with 70 arrests made.

    The location of any such protest has not yet been confirmed.

    Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan, who is charge of the Met’s policing operation this weekend, said: “Our policing plans for the sort of protest activity we expect on Saturday are tried and tested, with officers working hard to achieve the balance of allowing people to exercise their right to peaceful protest while avoiding serious disruption to the community and ensuring incidents and offences can be swiftly dealt with.

    “This Saturday’s Palestine Coalition protest is the first large scale eventof its kind since the proscription of Palestine Action and I want to make sure the implications of that change in the law are fully understood.

    “Nobody will be committing an offence by simply supporting the Palestinian cause, taking part in the march or carrying flags, banners or other signs providing they don’t stray into hate speech or other offences.

    “However, those who see this as an opportunity to test the limits of the law by expressing support for Palestine Action, whether at a standalone protest or as part of the Palestine Coalition protest, will likely be committing an offence and will very likely be arrested.

    “I would urge those people to consider the seriousness of being arrested under the Terrorism Act and the very real long term implications – from travel, to employment, to finances – that such an arrest is likely to have for their future.

    “This is also the first large scale protest on this issue since Glastonbury Festival where offensive chanting led by an artist on one of the stages prompted a police investigation. Investigations are also underway, led by Met officers, following similar uses of the same chant in London.

    “Those investigations are ongoing and it would not be appropriate to prejudge the outcomes, but I can say a bit more about our approach to similar chanting at this weekend’s protest.

    “We have said before that whether chants cross the line from free speech to a potential criminal offence depends on the specific circumstances.

    “For example, there will be words that when chanted in the middle of the Palestine Coalition march, and not directed at individuals who might be caused harassment, alarm or distress as a result, might not lead an officer to reasonably suspect an offence has been committed.

    “But directing the same words at a group of people for whom the words would very likely cause harassment, alarm or distress, could well give rise to grounds for arrest.

    “At previous protests, the area between the main march and any counter protest has seen the most heated exchanges. Officers will be particularly alert to conduct, including chanting, in this area and will be working with stewards to ensure crowds keep moving past this point.

    “Where they become aware of behaviour that crosses the line from protest into criminality they will intervene and take appropriate action.

    “All participants are responsible for their own behaviour. Avoiding the use of threatening, abusive and insulting language, or language that is supportive of proscribed organisations, is the surest way to stay on the right side of this line.”

    Further details of these protests, including any conditions in place, will be published at news.met.police.uk and on the Met’s X account.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATE: Met reiterates warning on support for proscribed organisations ahead of Saturday protests

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    There will be an increased police presence in Westminster on Saturday when a number of protests are due to take place.

    A march organised by the Palestine Coalition will go from Victoria Embankment to Whitehall via Westminster Bridge, Waterloo Bridge and the Strand. Speeches will take place in Whitehall following the march.

    A static protest organised by Stop the Hate, in opposition to the Palestine Coalition march, will take place at the junction of the Strand and Waterloo Bridge.

    Discussions are ongoing with the organisers of both protests and details of any conditions in place will be published on Friday.

    We are also expecting further protest activity in support of Palestine Action which is a group now proscribed under the Terrorism Act. Similar protests have taken place in Parliament Square for the past two weekends, with 70 arrests made.

    The location of any such protest has not yet been confirmed.

    Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan, who is charge of the Met’s policing operation this weekend, said: “Our policing plans for the sort of protest activity we expect on Saturday are tried and tested, with officers working hard to achieve the balance of allowing people to exercise their right to peaceful protest while avoiding serious disruption to the community and ensuring incidents and offences can be swiftly dealt with.

    “This Saturday’s Palestine Coalition protest is the first large scale eventof its kind since the proscription of Palestine Action and I want to make sure the implications of that change in the law are fully understood.

    “Nobody will be committing an offence by simply supporting the Palestinian cause, taking part in the march or carrying flags, banners or other signs providing they don’t stray into hate speech or other offences.

    “However, those who see this as an opportunity to test the limits of the law by expressing support for Palestine Action, whether at a standalone protest or as part of the Palestine Coalition protest, will likely be committing an offence and will very likely be arrested.

    “I would urge those people to consider the seriousness of being arrested under the Terrorism Act and the very real long term implications – from travel, to employment, to finances – that such an arrest is likely to have for their future.

    “This is also the first large scale protest on this issue since Glastonbury Festival where offensive chanting led by an artist on one of the stages prompted a police investigation. Investigations are also underway, led by Met officers, following similar uses of the same chant in London.

    “Those investigations are ongoing and it would not be appropriate to prejudge the outcomes, but I can say a bit more about our approach to similar chanting at this weekend’s protest.

    “We have said before that whether chants cross the line from free speech to a potential criminal offence depends on the specific circumstances.

    “For example, there will be words that when chanted in the middle of the Palestine Coalition march, and not directed at individuals who might be caused harassment, alarm or distress as a result, might not lead an officer to reasonably suspect an offence has been committed.

    “But directing the same words at a group of people for whom the words would very likely cause harassment, alarm or distress, could well give rise to grounds for arrest.

    “At previous protests, the area between the main march and any counter protest has seen the most heated exchanges. Officers will be particularly alert to conduct, including chanting, in this area and will be working with stewards to ensure crowds keep moving past this point.

    “Where they become aware of behaviour that crosses the line from protest into criminality they will intervene and take appropriate action.

    “All participants are responsible for their own behaviour. Avoiding the use of threatening, abusive and insulting language, or language that is supportive of proscribed organisations, is the surest way to stay on the right side of this line.”

    Further details of these protests, including any conditions in place, will be published at news.met.police.uk and on the Met’s X account.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carter Introduces Bill to Increase Funding for Veteran Health Care

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Earl L Buddy Carter (GA-01)

    Headline: Carter Introduces Bill to Increase Funding for Veteran Health Care

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA), Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY), Rep. Josh Harder (D-CA), and Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) today introduced the Veterans Health Care Stamp Act of 2025, a bill directing the United States Postal Service to issue and sell a stamp that will fund medical care and treatment for veterans.

    For every stamp sold, proceeds will be contributed to an account within the Department of Veterans Affairs, providing the public with a convenient way to contribute to health care services for veterans. 

    “This common-sense legislation will provide additional support to our heroic veteran community for the sacrifices they have made in defense of our country,” said Rep. Carter. “With this bill, we will increase the quality, accessibility, and affordability of health care for our nation’s veterans, fulfilling our promise to defend them as fully as they defended us.” 

    “I served as an Army Ranger in Iraq and Afghanistan. As a veteran, caring for our veterans is personal to me. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to help support the VA health system and provide better care for those who have served our country,” said Rep. Crow.

    Read full bill text here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carter Introduces Bill to Increase Funding for Veteran Health Care

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Earl L Buddy Carter (GA-01)

    Headline: Carter Introduces Bill to Increase Funding for Veteran Health Care

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA), Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY), Rep. Josh Harder (D-CA), and Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) today introduced the Veterans Health Care Stamp Act of 2025, a bill directing the United States Postal Service to issue and sell a stamp that will fund medical care and treatment for veterans.

    For every stamp sold, proceeds will be contributed to an account within the Department of Veterans Affairs, providing the public with a convenient way to contribute to health care services for veterans. 

    “This common-sense legislation will provide additional support to our heroic veteran community for the sacrifices they have made in defense of our country,” said Rep. Carter. “With this bill, we will increase the quality, accessibility, and affordability of health care for our nation’s veterans, fulfilling our promise to defend them as fully as they defended us.” 

    “I served as an Army Ranger in Iraq and Afghanistan. As a veteran, caring for our veterans is personal to me. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to help support the VA health system and provide better care for those who have served our country,” said Rep. Crow.

    Read full bill text here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –