NewzIntel.com

Category: Middle East

  • MIL-Evening Report: We looked at what supermarkets in 97 countries are doing to our waistlines. Here’s what we found

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tailane Scapin, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Deakin University

    World Obesity Federation

    In many countries, buying food at supermarkets, convenience stores and online has become the norm. But what’s the convenience of modern food shopping doing to our health?

    Our study, published today with colleagues from UNICEF, looked at how people in 97 countries shopped for groceries over 15 years.

    Globally, we found a huge increase in the number of supermarkets and convenience stores (which we’ll shorten to chain grocery stores in this article). We also found people are spending more money in these stores and on their online platforms.

    But this has come at a cost to our health. People in countries with the most chain grocery stores per person buy more unhealthy food and are more likely to be obese.

    Here’s why we’re so concerned about this public health disaster.

    The rise of chain grocery stores

    Our study analysed food industry data from a business database to understand how the food retail sector has changed worldwide over time. We looked at the kinds of stores, how much people spend there, and how much unhealthy processed food is sold. We linked these trends with changes in obesity rates using data from a large global initiative.

    We found the density of chain grocery stores (number of stores per 10,000 people) has increased globally by 23.6% over 15 years (from 2009 to 2023).

    We found far more of these stores per person in high-income countries, as you may expect. However, it’s in low- and middle-income countries where numbers are increasing the fastest.

    Rapid urbanisation, rising incomes and customer demand mean large retail companies see these countries as new potential markets.

    For example, the density of chain grocery stores increased by about 21% a year in Myanmar, about 18% a year in Vietnam and about 12% a year in Cambodia.

    In Vietnam, the number of chain grocery stores increased by about 18% a year.
    Nature-Andy/Shutterstock

    We’re shopping online too

    The data in our study also covers the rise of online food shopping. For instance, the worldwide spend on online grocery shopping was 325% more in 2023 compared with 2014.

    Out of the 27 countries we looked at for online food shopping, people in the United Arab Emirates and the United States were the top spenders. In 2023, the average person in the United Arab Emirates spent about US$617 that year, 570% more than in 2014. In the US, the average person spent US$387 in 2023. That’s about 125% more than in 2014.

    It seems many of us took to online shopping during the early days of the COVID pandemic, a habit that appears to have stuck.

    More chain stores, more junk food, more obesity

    The rise of chain grocery stores, including their online platforms, is also changing what we eat.

    Over the 15 years of our study, there has been a 10.9% increase in the sales of unhealthy processed food from those chain grocery stores.

    In South Asia, the increase has been particularly rapid. People in Pakistan have been buying 5% more unhealthy processed foods from chain grocery stores every year for the past 15 years. In India, it’s 4% more and in Bangladesh 3% more.

    Over 15 years, our study also showed the percentage of people with obesity across all countries rose from 18.2% to 23.7%. It was the countries with the biggest increases in chain grocery stores where we saw the sharpest increases in obesity.

    Laos is a good example. The number of chain grocery stores per person in the country has been increasing by 15% each year since 2009, while the percentage of people with obesity has doubled from 2009 to 2023.

    In almost all countries, obesity is on the rise. In Australia, overweight and obesity have recently officially overtaken tobacco as the biggest burden on our health.

    Over 15 years, there has been a 10.9% increase in the sales of unhealthy processed food globally.
    Pratiwi Ambarwati/Shutterstock

    Why do we think supermarkets are to blame?

    Supermarkets and hypermarkets sell healthy foods, such as fruit and vegetables. Yet, there are good reasons to think our retail environment might be to blame for the rise in obesity.

    Highly processed foods

    Chain grocery stores typically sell an enormous array of highly processed packaged foods high in sugar, fat and salt that can harm our health. One study of the food and drinks available in supermarkets from 12 countries showed the majority are classified as unhealthy. Given our findings of rapid increases in chain grocery in low- and middle-income countries, it was alarming in this study that the least healthy products were typically seen in supermarkets from countries like India, China and Chile.

    Heavy promotion

    Chain grocery stores often aggressively promote unhealthy foods. This includes through price discounting; advertising in circulars, on TV and social media; and by being placed in prominent displays at checkouts and the ends of aisles. Studies have shown this to be true in Belgium, Ireland and another 12 countries.

    Online, we see unhealthy foods promoted more often (with discounts and displayed more prominently) than healthy options. For instance, on average at least one-third of products prominently displayed on Australian supermarket websites are unhealthy.

    More buying power

    Compared to small independent grocers, large chain grocery stores globally have a far larger influence on decisions around product assortment and price. Because of this, they can control supply chains, often in partnership with national and multi-national food manufacturers of ultra processed, unhealthy packaged foods.

    What can we do about it?

    There are many social, political, cultural and economic factors that contribute to the rise in obesity globally. Many of these relate to the price, availability and promotion of food in retail settings and the way the retail industry is structured.

    Because of this, we think it’s time for governments and retailers to step up and start making changes to where and how we shop for food.

    Some countries are already beginning to act. In the United Kingdom for example, government legislation now prevents placing unhealthy foods in prominent places such as the checkout counter and at the ends of aisles close to checkouts. From October this year, further restrictions on the price promotion of unhealthy foods (such as “buy one, get one free”) will also come into force in the UK.

    There is also plenty that retailers can do. In Norway, for example, one major grocery chain launched a comprehensive healthy eating campaign several years ago, including by increasing the size and prominence of healthy food displays and offering discounts on fruits and vegetables. This led to a 42% increase in vegetable sales and a 25% rise in fruit sales from 2012 until 2020.

    But most grocery chains are still not doing enough to prioritise their customers’ health and nutrition. In the US, we see this in particular for supermarkets catering to people on low-incomes. And in the UK, although there has been some promising progress by some supermarket retailers, all those assessed have considerable scope for improvement.

    Now more than ever, it is time to create healthier retail food environments that support nutritious diets and help reverse the rising rates of obesity.

    Tailane Scapin receives funding from UNICEF.

    Adrian Cameron receives funding from the National Heart Foundation of Australia, the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and UNICEF. He is affiliated with INFORMAS (International Network for Food and Obesity / Non-communicable Diseases Research, Monitoring and Action Support) and is the Director of the RE-FRESH: Next Generation NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Food Retail Environments for Health.

    – ref. We looked at what supermarkets in 97 countries are doing to our waistlines. Here’s what we found – https://theconversation.com/we-looked-at-what-supermarkets-in-97-countries-are-doing-to-our-waistlines-heres-what-we-found-246412

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Digital Luddites are rising. They want to democratise tech, not destroy it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Raffaele F Ciriello, Senior Lecturer in Business Information Systems, University of Sydney

    Have you ever been called a Luddite? We have – usually as an insult, rooted in a popular misconception that Luddites are anti-progress fanatics.

    Nothing could be further from the truth. The original 19th century Luddites weren’t against technology. Rather, they resisted its oppressive use.

    Their rebellion was violently suppressed. But their core critique lives on: technology should benefit all of humanity, not a privileged few.

    Today, as Silicon Valley billionaires and United States president Donald Trump turbocharge corporate control of public digital infrastructure, this critique rings truer than ever.

    In response, we are a seeing a growing surge of attempts to wrest back control of technology for democratic ends. This is a kind of “digital Luddism” which echoes past struggles against high-tech injustice.

    The original Luddites

    The Luddites were 19th century English textile workers who destroyed machinery threatening their craft and livelihoods. Historians call their tactics “collective bargaining by riot”. They were fighting against technologies that centralised power and stripped workers of dignity.

    Luddite resistance was part of broader struggles for labour rights and socioeconomic justice.

    For example, in 18th century France, silk weavers similarly revolted against mechanisation that devalued their craft.

    Earlier, England’s Diggers and Levellers resisted the privatisation of communal lands. This foreshadowed today’s battles over corporate control of digital infrastructure.

    The Luddites faced severe punishment, including imprisonment and even execution. Despite this, their legacy endures. Today, dismissing critics of Big Tech as “Luddites” repeats the mistake of conflating resistance to exploitation with fear of progress.

    The Luddite resistance in the 19th century was part of broader struggles for labour rights and socioeconomic justice.
    Working Class Movement Library catalogue

    In the most extreme scenario, unchecked corporate power allied with monstrous government polices can lead to atrocities. In Nazi Germany, for example, Dehomag, a former subsidiary of computer giant IBM, provided data systems to the Nazis to track victims. Chemical company IG Farben also supplied Zyklon B gas for extermination camps. Many other companies profited from forced labour and funded the regime. This shows how complicity can make oppression more efficient.

    Today, digital technologies are deepening inequality, eroding democracy, undermining privacy, and concentrating power.

    Digital technologies are also fuelling surveillance capitalism, the displacement of human workers by AI algorithms and the growth of monopolistic platforms.

    Platforms and AI systems governed by “broligarchs” such as Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg are also shaping politics, culture, and beliefs globally.

    Digital Luddism, also known as neo-Luddism, tackles these issues through three strategies: resistance, removal and replacement.

    Resistance: blocking harmful systems

    Technology is not inevitable — it’s a choice. Sustained collective action can counter corporate dominance and align tech with democratic values.

    In 2018, more than 3,000 Google workers protested the company’s military AI contract, forcing it to adopt ethical guidelines. However, in February this year, Google expanded defence deals, showing how resistance must be sustained.

    Three years later, Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen exposed the harmful algorithms at the heart of the social media platform.

    Then, in 2024, Amazon and Google staff also staged walkouts over a US$1.2 billion AI contract linked to Israeli military operations.

    Creative industries are also fighting back. For example, in 2023 screenwriters and actors in Hollywood protested against AI replacing their roles. Similarly, Australia’s “right to disconnect” law reflects Luddite principles of reclaiming autonomy.

    Non-profit organisations such as the Algorithmic Justice League and the Electronic Frontier Foundation empower digital rights advocates to take back control over digital spaces by exposing AI bias and through legal litigation.

    Digital Luddism doesn’t reject innovation. It demands technology serve stakeholders, not shareholders.

    Removal: dismantling entrenched power

    Some systems are beyond reform, requiring direct intervention. Removal involves political action and legal regulation. It also involves public pressure to break monopolies or impose penalties on unethical corporations.

    For example, the TraffickingHub petition has garnered more than two million signatories to hold adult website PornHub accountable for unethical or unlawful content. This has led financial institutions, such as Visa and Mastercard, to cut ties to the website. For more than 20 years, hacker collective Anonymous has carried out cyber-attacks on authoritarian regimes, extremists and corporations.

    Digital Luddites can also lend a hand to the long arm of the law.

    The European Union’s 2023 Digital Markets Act broke Apple’s app store monopoly. This sparked a surge in small EU developers.

    Big Tech has also repeatedly faced huge fines and antitrust lawsuits. However, breaking up or nationalising these corporations remains rhetoric for now.

    Replacement: building ethical alternatives

    Proprietary corporate systems have long been challenged by free, open-source alternatives.

    But digital Luddism isn’t just about using different tools. It’s about systemic change towards sustainable, transparent and user-controlled infrastructure.

    After Elon Musk’s Twitter takeover, decentralised alternatives that let users control content flourished. For example, Bluesky grew from 1 million to more than 27 million users in one year.

    The Australian government is also responding to a broader public demand for platform independence. For example, it has introduced policies aimed at enhancing people’s data rights. Its Digital Transformation Agency is also advocating for improved open data standards.

    Open-source AI projects such as China’s DeepSeek and HuggingFace’s Deep Research now rival corporate models, proving open tech is a force to reckon with.

    The original Luddites smashed machines. But the global nature of today’s digital infrastructure makes physical sabotage impractical. That’s why digital Luddism isn’t about smashing screens. Instead, it’s about smashing oppressive systems.

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

    – ref. Digital Luddites are rising. They want to democratise tech, not destroy it – https://theconversation.com/digital-luddites-are-rising-they-want-to-democratise-tech-not-destroy-it-251155

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s message on the launch of the Berlin Initiative: for a Diplomatic Solution to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

    Source: United Nations – English

    commend the launch of The Berlin Initiative and its commitment to a diplomatic resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

    Since the horrific terror attacks by Hamas on October 7, the ensuing Israeli military operations have unleashed an unprecedented level of death and destruction in Gaza.  Meanwhile, the deteriorating situation in the West Bank is fueling further instability and suffering.

    The ceasefire in Gaza must hold and be implemented in full.  All hostages must be released immediately, unconditionally, and in a dignified manner.  And humanitarian aid must be maintained, funded, protected, and reach people in dire need without restrictions.

    But beyond ending this terrible war, we must lay the foundations for lasting peace – one that ensures security for Israel, dignity and self-determination for the Palestinian people, and stability for the entire region.

    That requires a clear political framework for Gaza’s recovery and reconstruction.  It requires immediate and irreversible steps towards a two-State solution – with Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, unified under a legitimate Palestinian authority, accepted and supported by the Palestinian people.  And it requires putting an end to occupation, settlement expansion and threats of annexation.

    Efforts like The Berlin Initiative help forge a diplomatic path.  I urge everyone to seize this moment to build a future where Israel and Palestine live side by side, in peace and security, in line with international law and UN resolutions.  It is the only way.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Padilla Introduce Bill to Safeguard U.S. Research Against Foreign Adversaries

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) today introduced the U.S. Research Protection Act to shield American research from malign foreign influence by updating language in the CHIPS and Science Act to include additional restrictions against programs sponsored by countries of concern:
    “In a world where competition turns into hostility all too often, we must do everything in our power to safeguard American ingenuity against bad actor nations,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation will place even more restrictions on academic programs involving countries of concern to ensure American scientific research is protected.”
    “The bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act included important provisions to bolster our research security,” said Sen. Padilla. “This legislation will provide much needed clarity for federal agencies and academic institutions to better safeguard national security, while preserving research collaboration and international partnerships crucial to the strength of America’s innovation economy.”
    Background:
    Malign Foreign Talent Programs are sponsored by countries of concern like Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea to obtain American scientific research and technology by incentivizing or coercing American researchers to act on their behalf. The CHIPS and Science Act included provisions to prohibit the U.S. government and academic institutions from partnering with such programs.
    However, the law’s current definition of a Malign Foreign Talent Program only includes programs that “directly provide” incentives and benefits to researchers to participate, leaving out other methods to provide indirect benefits to researchers to induce their cooperation. This legislation would broaden the definition to include “indirect benefits,” ensuring foreign adversarial nations cannot exploit this loophole to evade U.S. research restrictions.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General Urges All Efforts to Prevent Renewed Hostilities as Gaza Ceasefire’s First Phase Ends

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

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

    The Secretary-General is closely following developments in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory as the first phase of the ceasefire and hostage release deal reaches its conclusion.  The past six weeks have provided a fragile but vital reprieve, offering a measure of relief to both Palestinians and Israelis. Thousands of trucks carrying life-saving assistance entered Gaza, with aid having reached nearly every person in the Strip.  It is imperative that all efforts be made to prevent a return to hostilities, which would be catastrophic.

    The Secretary-General urges all parties to exercise maximum restraint and find a way forward on the next phase.  A permanent ceasefire and the release of all hostages are essential to preventing escalation and averting more devastating consequences for civilians.  The Secretary-General continues to call for the dignified, immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.  The parties must ensure humane treatment for all those held under their power.  Humanitarian aid must continue to flow, without impediment, be adequately funded, and occur in an environment ensuring the safety and security of civilians and other protected persons, including humanitarian workers.

    The Secretary-General also calls for an urgent de-escalation of the alarming situation in the occupied West Bank.

    As Ramadan — a time of peace and reflection — begins, the Secretary-General calls on all sides to spare no efforts to end all violence.  The United Nations stands ready to support all such endeavours.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How gas keeps the UK’s electricity bills so high – despite lots of cheap wind power

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Michael Tamvakis, Professor of Commodity Economics and Finance, City St George’s, University of London

    The UK has become a world leader in offshore wind power. iweta0077 / shutterstock

    Gas and electricity bills will rise again for millions of UK households on April 1, when the latest energy price cap takes effect. A typical household will pay £111 more per year.

    Though prices have fallen somewhat since their peak in 2022, bills are still considerably higher than they have been historically. That’s despite the construction over the past decade of vast wind farms in the North Sea – which, once built, provide electricity for very little extra cost.

    So what explains the UK’s pricey gas and electricity?

    Since the 1990s, the UK has been dependent on natural gas in more ways than one. In 2023 (the most recent year for which we have full statistics), gas accounted for 33% of the UK’s energy and almost as much of the electricity it generated. That year, wind contributed 29% to generation and solar an additional 5%, which is of some significance.

    As nearly all households are connected to mains gas, most energy bills reflect the global price of gas.

    The UK has to compete with demand for gas from other markets, especially, but not exclusively, the EU. The higher the demand, the higher the price. Before the Ukrainian crisis, many EU economies, especially Germany, were able to source abundant gas through pipelines from Russia.

    The UK, like other big European countries such as Spain, Italy and France, was able to meet some of its gas supply via pipelines (from Norway in the case of the UK), but also in the form of more expensive liquefied natural gas (LNG) from as far afield as Qatar, Algeria, West Africa and, more recently, the US.

    Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, the flow of pipeline gas has almost entirely stopped. Germany and western EU countries have to compete with everyone else to source their gas from Norway or international LNG markets. A few countries on the eastern side of the EU, such as Austria and Hungary, are still sourcing their gas from Russia but face western criticism for that continued dependence.

    This all matters to UK consumers because most of a household’s average energy bill reflects the vagaries of the international gas market. A relatively harsh winter in Europe means they have purchased more gas and paid more for it. In a global market the UK consumer will have to pay this price as well. Even a harsh winter in Japan means that more LNG is directed there, increasing prices for UK and EU consumers.

    We can’t suddenly turn on the wind

    Even the growth in renewables, especially wind power, does not offer protection against the vagaries of the global gas markets. It is well known that wind energy is intermittent and therefore difficult to forecast and base generation plans on.

    Wind energy is what people in the electricity industry call “non-dispatchable”. Because electricity is a universal good, which we expect to have whenever we ask for it, the national grid needs to be able to balance the randomness of wind generation with the immediate response of a reliable, quick-start, “dispatchable” source of generation. Gas fits the bill.

    As a result, expensive gas which is called on to make up for the loss of wind or solar generation, ends up setting the electricity price (called the “system price”) most days. Other countries experience something similar. Germany, for instance, generates just 15% of its electricity from gas (albeit with a further 25% from coal) and gets a higher proportion from renewables (28% wind and 12% solar). Yet it still has to use gas frequently to balance the electrical system, with the same effect as in the UK.

    Ultimately, the more variable renewable electricity we inject into the system, the more we need to plan for, and invest in, infrastructure that can support it. That means a smarter grid, fewer grid bottlenecks within the UK, more and bigger interconnections to other European countries and battery solutions which can store electricity both for short periods (minutes and hours) and for days and even weeks.

    Putting all these elements in place is a Herculean task. Gas fills the gap, but in a way which is more expensive (for now) and continues emitting greenhouse gases, albeit at half the rate that coal did.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Michael Tamvakis 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. How gas keeps the UK’s electricity bills so high – despite lots of cheap wind power – https://theconversation.com/how-gas-keeps-the-uks-electricity-bills-so-high-despite-lots-of-cheap-wind-power-251136

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message on the launch of the Berlin Initiative “For a Diplomatic Solution to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict”

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    I commend the launch of The Berlin Initiative and its commitment to a diplomatic resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

    Since the horrific terror attacks by Hamas on October 7, the ensuing Israeli military operations have unleashed an unprecedented level of death and destruction in Gaza.  Meanwhile, the deteriorating situation in the West Bank is fueling further instability and suffering.

    The ceasefire in Gaza must hold and be implemented in full.  All hostages must be released immediately, unconditionally, and in a dignified manner.  And humanitarian aid must be maintained, funded, protected, and reach people in dire need without restrictions.

    But beyond ending this terrible war, we must lay the foundations for lasting peace – one that ensures security for Israel, dignity and self-determination for the Palestinian people, and stability for the entire region.

    That requires a clear political framework for Gaza’s recovery and reconstruction.  It requires immediate and irreversible steps towards a two-State solution – with Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, unified under a legitimate Palestinian authority, accepted and supported by the Palestinian people.  And it requires putting an end to occupation, settlement expansion and threats of annexation.

    Efforts like The Berlin Initiative help forge a diplomatic path.  I urge everyone to seize this moment to build a future where Israel and Palestine live side by side, in peace and security, in line with international law and UN resolutions.  It is the only way.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Disrupting a global cybercrime network abusing generative AI

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Disrupting a global cybercrime network abusing generative AI

    In an amended complaint to recent civil litigation, Microsoft is naming the primary developers of malicious tools designed to bypass the guardrails of generative AI services, including Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service. We are pursuing this legal action now against identified defendants to stop their conduct, to continue to dismantle their illicit operation, and to deter others intent on weaponizing our AI technology.

    The individuals named are: (1) Arian Yadegarnia aka “Fiz” of Iran, (2) Alan Krysiak aka “Drago” of United Kingdom, (3) Ricky Yuen aka “cg-dot” of Hong Kong, China, and (4) Phát Phùng Tấn aka “Asakuri” of Vietnam. These actors are at the center of a global cybercrime network Microsoft tracks as Storm-2139. Members of Storm-2139 exploited exposed customer credentials scraped from public sources to unlawfully access accounts with certain generative AI services. They then altered the capabilities of these services and resold access to other malicious actors, providing detailed instructions on how to generate harmful and illicit content, including non-consensual intimate images of celebrities and other sexually explicit content.

    This activity is prohibited under the terms of use for our generative AI services and required deliberate efforts to bypass our safeguards. We are not naming specific celebrities to keep their identities private and have excluded synthetic imagery and prompts from our filings to prevent the further circulation of harmful content.

    Storm-2139: A global network of creators, providers and end users.

    In December 2024, Microsoft’s Digital Crimes Unit (DCU) filed a lawsuit in the Eastern District of Virginia alleging various causes of action against 10 unidentified “John Does” participating in activities that violate U.S. law and Microsoft’s Acceptable Use Policy and Code of Conduct. Through this initial filing, we were able to gather more information about the operations of the criminal enterprise.  

    Storm-2139 is organized into three main categories: creators, providers, and users. Creators developed the illicit tools that enabled the abuse of AI generated services. Providers then modified and supplied these tools to end users often with varying tiers of service and payment. Finally, users then used these tools to generate violating synthetic content, often centered around celebrities and sexual imagery.  

    Below is a visual representation of Storm-2139, which displays internet aliases uncovered as part of our investigation as well as the countries in which we believe the associated personas are located.    

    Storm-2139’s organizational structure.
    Screenshot of “Fiz’s” LinkedIn profile

    Through its ongoing investigation, Microsoft has identified several of the above-listed personas, including, but not limited to, the four named defendants. While we have identified two actors located in the United States—specifically, in Illinois and Florida—those identities remain undisclosed to avoid interfering with potential criminal investigations. Microsoft is preparing criminal referrals to United States and foreign law enforcement representatives. 

    Cybercriminals react to Microsoft’s website seizure and court filing.

    As part of our initial filing, the Court issued a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction enabling Microsoft to seize a website instrumental to the criminal operation, effectively disrupting the group’s ability to operationalize their services. The seizure of this website and subsequent unsealing of the legal filings in January generated an immediate reaction from actors, in some cases causing group members to turn on and point fingers at one another. We observed chatter about the lawsuit on the group’s monitored communication channels, speculating on the identities of the “John Does” and potential consequences.  

    Screenshot of online chatter discussing “Fiz’s” real name.

    In these channels, certain members also “doxed” Microsoft’s counsel of record, posting their names, personal information, and in some instances photographs. Doxing can result in real-world harm, ranging from identity theft to harassment.   

    Screenshot from post on online channels providing information about the case lawyers.

    As a result, Microsoft’s counsel received a variety of emails, including several from suspected members of Storm-2139 attempting to cast blame on other members of the operation.  

    Screenshots of emails received by counsel of record.

    This reaction underscores the impact of Microsoft’s legal actions and demonstrates how these measures can effectively disrupt a cybercriminal network by seizing infrastructure and create a powerful deterrent impact among its members. 

    Continuing our commitment to combatting the abuse of generative AI.

    We take the misuse of AI very seriously, recognizing the serious and lasting impacts of abusive imagery for victims. Microsoft remains committed to protecting users by embedding robust AI guardrails and safeguarding our services from illegal and harmful content. Last year, we committed to continuing to innovate on new ways to keep users safe by outlining a comprehensive approach to combat abusive AI-generated content. We published a whitepaper with recommendations for U.S. policymakers on modernizing criminal law to equip law enforcement with the tools necessary to bring bad actors to justice. We also provided an update on our approach to intimate image abuse, detailing the steps we take to protect our services from such harm, whether synthetic or otherwise. 

    As we’ve said before, no disruption is complete in one day. Going after malicious actors requires persistence and ongoing vigilance. By unmasking these individuals and shining a light on their malicious activities, Microsoft aims to set a precedent in the fight against AI technology misuse.  

    Tags: AI, cybercrime, Digital Crimes Unit, Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, Microsoft Digital Crimes Unit, Responsible AI

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Nuclear energy watchdog chief raises ‘serious’ safety concerns over sites in Ukraine and Iran

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Peace and Security

    In his latest address to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors on Monday, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi warned of the escalating nuclear safety risks in Ukraine as the conflict grinds on.

    Reaffirming the UN-backed IAEA’s commitment to monitoring facilities such as the Khmelnitsky, Rivne and South Ukraine Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs), he described how facilities were performing under extreme conditions.

    “The electrical grid’s ability to provide a reliable off-site power supply to Ukrainian NPPs was reduced by damage sustained following military attacks in November and December 2024,” Mr. Grossi stated, underscoring the ongoing strain on national energy infrastructure, in the face of Russia’s ongoing invasion.

    © IAEA

    A team of IAEA experts visits Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine in June 2024.

    Direct attacks on staff

    Direct attacks have complicated the agency’s work. The Director General described a drone strike that severely damaged an IAEA vehicle during a routine rotation.

    “Staff survived this unacceptable attack unharmed, but the rear of the vehicle was destroyed,” he said, noting the continuous risks faced by staff working in these volatile conditions.

    Particularly concerning is the situation at the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), where six reactor units remain in cold shutdown. The facility’s off-site power supply continues to be vulnerable.

    Mr. Grossi highlighted a recent incident in which ZNPP relied on a single off-site power line after losing its remaining backup, further underscoring the fragility of the plant.

    Meanwhile, an attack on the Chernobyl site nearly three weeks ago, which caused significant damage to the protective structure of the 1986 reactor, was also addressed.

    While no radioactive release occurred, Mr. Grossi stressed that the attack “underlines the persistent risk to nuclear safety during this military conflict.”

    © IAEA

    Fire on the New Safe Confinement (NSC) at the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant site following a drone attack on 14 February 2025.

    Support for safety efforts

    Despite the challenges, Mr. Grossi reaffirmed the IAEA’s ongoing support for Ukraine.

    Since November 2024, the Agency has delivered 31 shipments of nuclear safety, security and medical equipment, totalling over €15.6 million in value.

    “We are grateful to all 30 donor states and the European Union for their extrabudgetary contributions,” Mr. Grossi added, urging continued support for the comprehensive assistance programme.

    Concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme

    Mr. Grossi also reported fresh concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme, especially its stockpile of uranium enriched to 60 per cent.

    Iran remains the only non-nuclear weapon State enriching uranium to this level, raising significant concerns over potential weapons development.

    “Iran says it has declared all nuclear material, activities and locations required under its NPT Safeguards Agreement. However, this statement is inconsistent with the Agency’s findings of uranium particles of anthropogenic origin at undeclared locations in Iran,” Mr. Grossi explained.

    The Director General emphasised the need for greater transparency, stressing that unresolved safeguards issues must be addressed for Iran’s nuclear activities to be deemed peaceful.

    He called on Iran to urgently implement the Joint Statement of March 2023 and engage in serious dialogue aimed at resolving outstanding issues.

    Global safety initiatives

    Mr. Grossi also outlined the IAEA’s broader initiatives, including his recent visit to Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station, where he oversaw the collection of water samples related to the ongoing release of ALPS-treated contaminated water – in the wake of the major 2011 meltdown.

    “The IAEA has maintained its independent monitoring and analysis efforts, confirming that tritium concentrations in the discharged batches remain far below operational limits,” he noted.

    Looking ahead, the Director General highlighted key upcoming initiatives, such as the launch of the Atomic Technology Licensed for Applications at Sea (ATLAS) and the IAEA’s first International Symposium on Artificial Intelligence and Nuclear Energy, which will take place in December 2025.

    A growing role in energy solutions

    With the global demand for energy rising, Mr. Grossi pointed to the growing role of nuclear power in addressing energy needs.

    “In the IAEA’s high case scenario, global nuclear electricity generating capacity is seen increasing two and a half times by 2050,” he said.

    However, the Director General stressed that such growth must be accompanied by public support and a continued commitment to safety.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bybit Unleashes Futures Bot Clash with a 100,000 USDT Prize Pool

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, is launching the Futures Bot Clash – a high-stakes showdown where strategy meets automation. With a prize pool of up to 100,000 USDT, participants will battle it out using Bybit’s powerful Futures trading bots, aiming for the top of the leaderboard.

    The Battle of the Bots Begins
    Set to run from Feb. 28 to March 31, 2025, the competition offers traders a chance to put their bot strategies to the test in a contest of skill and precision. Participants will join one of three Futures Bot Squads – Futures Combo, Futures Martingale, or Futures Grid – and compete across multiple leaderboards to maximize their earnings.

    The event features two squad leaderboards and one individual leaderboard, with top traders rewarded based on performance. Additionally, traders can participate in the Predict & Win segment, where 1,000 lucky voters will share in a portion of the 5% Prediction Pool by correctly forecasting the winning squad.

    Prize Pool Breakdown
    The 100,000 USDT prize pool will be distributed among different categories:

    • Squad Rankings (70%) – The best-performing squad claims 40% of the total pool, with 20% and 10% allocated to the second and third place, respectively.
    • Top Traders by Volume (25%) – The most active traders will receive a share of the rewards based on their trading volume.
    • Predict & Win (5%) – Traders who correctly predict the champion squad will split this portion of the prize pool.

    To be eligible for rewards, participants must meet a minimum Futures trading volume of $10,000 and maintain an account balance of at least 1,000 USDT throughout the competition.

    Raising the Stakes
    The total prize pool will scale based on overall trading volume. The minimum pool of 50,000 USDT will be unlocked once the combined trading volume reaches $800 million, increasing to the full 100,000 USDT as milestones up to $1.5 billion are met.

    “Bybit’s Futures Bot Clash is a game-changer for automated trading enthusiasts. It offers a unique opportunity for users to test their bot strategies in a competitive setting, while also rewarding top traders and smart forecasters,” said Joan Han, Sales and Marketing Director at Bybit. “With the potential to win a share of 100,000 USDT, traders have every reason to bring their A-game.”

    Bybit continues to innovate in the crypto trading landscape, providing users with cutting-edge tools to optimize their trading strategies. The Futures Bot Clash offers a competitive environment, where the sharpest traders and most effective bots will rise to the top.

    #Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

    About Bybit
    Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.
    For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
    For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

    Contact

    Head of PR
    Tony Au
    Bybit
    media@bybit.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/25becf21-7c08-45fa-8fa4-7c571bdf2c01

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: A Palestinian-Israeli film just won an Oscar − so why is it so hard to see?

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Drew Paul, Associate Professor of Arabic, University of Tennessee

    Left to right: Basel Adra, Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal and Yuval Abraham pose with their Oscars for ‘No Other Land’ at the 2025 Academy Awards. Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images

    For many low-budget, independent films, an Oscar win is a golden ticket.

    The publicity can translate into theatrical releases or rereleases, along with more on-demand rentals and sales.

    However, for “No Other Land,” a Palestinian-Israeli film that just won best documentary feature at the 2025 Academy Awards, this exposure may not translate into commercial success in the U.S. That’s because the film has been unable to find a company to distribute it in America.

    “No Other Land” chronicles the efforts of Palestinian townspeople to combat an Israeli plan to demolish their villages in the West Bank and use the area as a military training ground. It was directed by four Palestinian and Israeli activists and journalists: Basel Adra, who is a resident of the area facing demolition, Yuval Abraham, Hamdan Ballal and Rachel Szor. While the filmmakers have organized screenings in a number of U.S. cities, the lack of a national distributor makes a broader release unlikely.

    Film distributors are a crucial but often unseen link in the chain that allows a film to reach cinemas and people’s living rooms. In recent years it has become more common for controversial award-winning films to run into issues finding a distributor. Palestinian films have encountered additional barriers.

    As a scholar of Arabic who has written about Palestinian cinema, I’m disheartened by the difficulties “No Other Land” has faced. But I’m not surprised.

    The role of film distributors

    Distributors are often invisible to moviegoers. But without one, it can be difficult for a film to find an audience.

    Distributors typically acquire rights to a film for a specific country or set of countries. They then market films to movie theaters, cinema chains and streaming platforms. As compensation, distributors receive a percentage of the revenue generated by theatrical and home releases.

    The film “Soundtrack to a Coup D’Etat,” another finalist for best documentary, shows how this process typically works. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2024 and was acquired for distribution just a few months later by Kino Lorber, a major U.S.-based distributor of independent films.

    The inability to find a distributor is not itself noteworthy. No film is entitled to distribution, and most films by newer or unknown directors face long odds.

    However, it is unusual for a film like “No Other Land,” which has garnered critical acclaim and has been recognized at various film festivals and award shows. Some have pegged it as a favorite to win best documentary at the Academy Awards. And “No Other Land” has been able to find distributors in Europe, where it’s easily accessible on multiple streaming platforms.

    So why can’t “No Other Land” find a distributor in the U.S.?

    There are a couple of factors at play.

    Shying away from controversy

    In recent years, film critics have noticed a trend: Documentaries on controversial topics have faced distribution difficulties. These include a film about a campaign by Amazon workers to unionize and a documentary about Adam Kinzinger, one of the few Republican congresspeople to vote to impeach Donald Trump in 2021.

    The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, of course, has long stirred controversy. But the release of “No Other Land” comes at a time when the issue is particularly salient. The Hamas attacks of Oct. 7, 2023, and the ensuing Israeli bombardment and invasion of the Gaza Strip have become a polarizing issue in U.S. domestic politics, reflected in the campus protests and crackdowns in 2024. The filmmakers’ critical comments about the Israeli occupation of Palestine have also garnered backlash in Germany.

    Locals attend a screening of ‘No Other Land’ in the village of A-Tuwani in the West Bank on March 14, 2024.
    Yahel Gazit/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images

    Yet the fact that this conflict has been in the news since October 2023 should also heighten audience interest in a film such as “No Other Land” – and, therefore, lead to increased sales, the metric that distributors care about the most.

    Indeed, an earlier film that also documents Palestinian protests against Israeli land expropriation, “5 Broken Cameras,” was a finalist for best documentary at the 2013 Academy Awards. It was able to find a U.S. distributor. However, it had the support of a major European Union documentary development program called Greenhouse. The support of an organization like Greenhouse, which had ties to numerous production and distribution companies in Europe and the U.S., can facilitate the process of finding a distributor.

    By contrast, “No Other Land,” although it has a Norwegian co-producer and received some funding from organizations in Europe and the U.S., was made primarily by a grassroots filmmaking collective.

    Stages for protest

    While distribution challenges may be recent, controversies surrounding Palestinian films are nothing new.

    Many of them stem from the fact that the system of film festivals, awards and distribution is primarily based on a movie’s nation of origin. Since there is no sovereign Palestinian state – and many countries and organizations have not recognized the state of Palestine – the question of how to categorize Palestinian films has been hard to resolve.

    In 2002, The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences rejected the first ever Palestinian film submitted to the best foreign language film category – Elia Suleiman’s “Divine Intervention” – because Palestine was not recognized as a country by the United Nations. The rules were changed for the following year’s awards ceremony.

    In 2021, the cast of the film “Let It Be Morning,” which had an Israeli director but primarily Palestinian actors, boycotted the Cannes Film Festival in protest of the film’s categorization as an Israeli film rather than a Palestinian one.

    Film festivals and other cultural venues have also become places to make statements about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and engage in protest. For example, at the Cannes Film Festival in 2017, the right-wing Israeli culture minister wore a controversial – and meme-worthy – dress that featured the Jerusalem skyline in support of Israeli claims of sovereignty over the holy city, despite the unresolved status of Jerusalem under international law.

    Israeli Culture Minister Miri Regev wears a dress featuring the old city of Jerusalem during the Cannes Film Festival in 2017.
    Antonin Thuillier/AFP via Getty Images

    At the 2024 Academy Awards, a number of attendees, including Billie Eilish, Mark Ruffalo and Mahershala Ali, wore red pins in support of a ceasefire in Gaza, and pro-Palestine protesters delayed the start of the ceremonies.

    As he accepted his award, “No Other Land” director Yuval Abraham called out “the foreign policy” of the U.S. for “helping to block” a path to peace.

    Even though a film like “No Other Land” addresses a topic of clear interest to many Americans, I wonder if the quest to find a U.S. distributor just got even harder.

    This article has been updated to clarify that the film was a collaborative effort between Palestinian and Israeli filmmakers. It has also been updated to reflect the film’s win at the 2025 Academy Awards.

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

    – ref. A Palestinian-Israeli film just won an Oscar − so why is it so hard to see? – https://theconversation.com/a-palestinian-israeli-film-just-won-an-oscar-so-why-is-it-so-hard-to-see-249233

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Conclusion of UK presidency of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance: Lord Pickles’ speech

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Speech

    Conclusion of UK presidency of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance: Lord Pickles’ speech

    International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance Chair Lord Pickles spoke about the UK’s achievements over the past year and handed over the presidency to Israel.

    In February 1980, I first watched a sunrise over Jerusalem. Whenever I’ve returned to this wonderful city over the past 45 years, I still feel that feeling of warmth and wonderment. 

    As we stand at the Crossroads of Generations, there is no better place on Earth to draw together the future of remembrance.

    The UK presidency aimed to bring out the best in the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), engender confidence in difficult times, and, above all, to strengthen the organisation. 

    During our year, following a general election, Britain’s government changed from the Conservatives to Labour. There were many disagreements on political issues during the campaign, but there was complete unity on the need to fight antisemitism and to further Holocaust education and remembrance.

    Both governments were clear that our presidency would put the interest of IHRA and remembrance before narrow national interest. I hope you agree that we have met those responsibilities.

    Those of us who attended the poignant 80th-anniversary ceremony of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau in January know that we will never see the like again. Ten years from now, at the 90th anniversary, it is unlikely there will be Holocaust survivors to speak.

    We are now the custodians of their memory. We must remember and tell the truth. We must uphold our founding document, the Stockholm Declaration, which is as relevant today as 25 years ago.

    IHRA is a consensus organisation, which can be frustrating at times. But there is an upside – it requires the skills of listening and debate. IHRA is not a place for the repetition of prepared statements, it is a place where experts speak the truth to government.

    One feature of the past year was bringing remembrance closer to local communities. The ‘My Hometown’ initiative asked young people to research what happened in their towns during the Holocaust. It showed them that history is not distant – it is personal.

    The ‘Holocaust in 80 Objects’ project used artefacts to tell the stories of victims and survivors. It reminded us that the Holocaust is not just statistics – it is millions of individual interlocking lives.

    Under our leadership, the IHRA-UNESCO Capacity Building Training expanded. It now includes diplomatic networks and embassy staff. Those shaping international discourse must understand the dangers of Holocaust distortion.

    This work has left a lasting impact – embedding Holocaust memory into education, public policy, and diplomacy. The move to new technologies that allows memory preservation will ensure that future generations can still connect with survivor voices.

    I hope Israel can build on the AI conference we hosted in London. We must unlock the potential of AI, if we don’t our opponents certainly will.

    IHRA is the only international organisation focusing on Holocaust remembrance, education and research. That is worth holding on to. To remain relevant, we must be adequately resourced.

    I am grateful that the Israeli presidency has pledged there will be proposals to make our finances sustainable when we meet in Jerusalem in June.

    I wish Israel a successful presidency. With Dani at the helm and with the support of Ruty and Yossi, Richelle, and Rob Rozette, I look forward to 2025 with confidence.

    Finally, I wish for 3 things. As the United Kingdom passes the flickering torch of Holocaust remembrance to Israel:

    • may its light shine bright over Jerusalem
    • may it illuminate the Crossroads of the Generations
    • may it show us the right path

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: At a time of war, nations must stop global order from crumbling: UN rights chief

    Source: United Nations 2

    “Our world is going through a period of turbulence and unpredictability, reflected in growing conflict and divided societies,” Türk told the Human Rights Council.

    “We cannot allow the fundamental global consensus around international norms and institutions, built painstakingly over decades, to crumble before our eyes.”

    The weapons of war

    Presenting his global update covering more than 30 countries, the High Commissioner described as “outrageous” the fact that legal safeguards for non-combatants were being repeatedly ignored.

    “Civilians are deliberately attacked. Sexual violence and famine are used as weapons of war,” Mr. Türk said. “Humanitarian access is denied, while weapons flow across borders and circumvent international sanctions. And humanitarian workers are targeted. In 2024, a record 356 humanitarian workers were killed while providing aid to people in some of the world’s most appalling crises.”

    Unbearable price

    In Sudan, the High Commissioner once again condemned devastating bomb attacks launched in heavily built-up areas with total impunity, by the parties to the conflict.

    All the while, the world’s worst humanitarian catastrophe deepens, threatening regional stability, he maintained: “Civilians are paying an unbearable price, in a naked struggle for power and resources. All countries must use their influence to apply pressure on the parties and their allies, to stop the war, embark on an inclusive dialogue, and transition to a civilian-led Government.”

    Ukraine’s people need peace

    Turning to Ukraine, whose future material support from the United States appeared unclear following televised disagreements between Presidents Trump and Zelensky at a White House meeting on Friday, Mr. Türk opposed any peace deal that excluded Ukraine.

    “Three years since the full-scale Russian invasion, people continue to suffer appallingly…Any discussions about ending the war must include Ukrainians and fully respect their human rights. Sustainable peace must be based on the United Nations Charter and international law.”

    Civilian casualties in Ukraine rose by 30 per cent between 2023 and 2024, the High Commissioner continued, as he accused Russia’s armed forces of systematically targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure with coordinated strikes, causing widespread disruptions to essential services.

    “Relentless attacks with aerial glide bombs, long-range missiles and drones have placed civilians in a state of constant insecurity and fear,” Mr. Türk noted.

    Ukrainian prisoners also continue to face summary executions and “widespread and systematic torture” by Russian forces, he continued.

    Gaza ceasefire focus

    In the Occupied Palestinian Territory, the UN rights chief insisted that the fragile ceasefire holds in Gaza “and becomes the basis for peace”.

    He also insisted that aid deliveries into Gaza should resume immediately, just as Israel announced a halt to aid flowing into the shattered enclave, having proposed extending the first phase of the ceasefire which ended at the weekend and which would allow Israeli troops to stay in Gaza.

    UN aid chief Tom Fletcher responded with alarm to the Israeli decision, insisting that the ceasefire “must hold”.

    In an online appeal, he added: “International humanitarian law is clear: We must be allowed access to deliver vital lifesaving aid. We can’t roll back the progress of the past 42 days. We need to get aid in and the hostages out.”

    Back in the Council, Mr. Türk explained that the Gaza had been “razed” by constant Israeli bombardment in response to the “horrific” Hamas-led attacks on Israel that sparked the war in October 2023. “Any solution to the cycles of violence must be rooted in human rights, including the right to self-determination, the rule of law and accountability. All hostages must be freed; all those detained arbitrarily must be released; and humanitarian aid into Gaza must resume immediately.”

    West Bank alert

    Reflecting deep concerns by humanitarians and the human rights community about Israeli military raids on Palestinian settlements in the West Bank, the UN High Commissioner insisted that Israel’s “unilateral actions and threats of annexation in the West Bank, in violation of international law, must stop”.

    Mr. Türk also condemned the use of “military weapons and tactics, including tanks and airstrikes, against Palestinians”. Equally worrying was “the destruction and emptying of refugee camps, the expansion of illegal settlements, the severe restrictions on movement and the displacement of tens of thousands of people”.

    DR Congo devastation

    Turning to the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, the High Commissioner underscored that entire communities in North and South Kivu had been devastated.

    “In the past five weeks, thousands of people have reportedly been killed during attacks by the M23 armed group, backed by the Rwandan Armed Forces, in intense fighting against the Armed Forces of the DRC and their allies,” the UN rights chief said, pointing to reports of rape, sexual slavery and summary executions.

    “More than half a million people have been forced to flee this year, adding to almost 7.8 million people already displaced in the country,” Mr. Türk said. “The violence must stop, violations by all parties must be investigated, and dialogue must resume.”

    © WFP/Michael Castofas

    More than half a million people have been forced to flee DR Congo this year.

    Deadliest year in Myanmar

    Moving on to the ongoing escalation of violence in Myanmar sparked by the military coup on 1 February 2021, the UN rights chief noted that 2024 was the deadliest year for civilians since the junta takeover.

    “The military ramped up brutal attacks on civilians as their grip on power eroded, with retaliatory airstrikes and artillery shelling of villages and urban areas…and the forcible conscription of thousands of young people,” he said, before calling for the supply of arms and finance to the country’s military’s to be “cut decisively”.

    Haiti spiral

    The UN rights chief also expressed deep concerns about chronic lawlessness and heavily armed clashes in Haiti involving gangs that humanitarians warned last week recruit children as young as eight. More than 5,600 people were killed last year and thousands more were injured or kidnapped, Mr. Türk told the Human Rights Council.

    “Full implementation of the Security Council‘s arms embargo and support to the Multinational Security Support Mission are crucial to resolving this crisis,” he insisted.

    Yemen

    On Yemen, the High Commissioner noted that amid ongoing hostilities, nearly 20 million Yemenis need humanitarian support. Mr. Türk also expressed his outrage at the death of a UN World Food Programme colleague in detention earlier this month. “All 23 UN staff – including eight colleagues from my own Office – who are arbitrarily detained by the Houthis must be released immediately.”

    In a half-hour address to the Council that traditionally highlights the most worrying emergencies in the world and the need to tackle their root causes, the UN rights chief issued a call for greater global solidarity and accountability for crimes as a way to push back against those who would violate fundamental freedoms.

    “We all have a responsibility to act – through our consumption habits, our social media use, and our political and social engagement,” he told the Council’s 47 Member States.

    “We can trace a clear line between the lack of accountability for airstrikes on hospitals in Syria in the 2010s, attacks on healthcare facilities in Yemen, and the destruction of health systems in Gaza and Sudan,” he continued.

    Toys of tech oligarchs

    Equally alarming is the rise of unelected and unregulated “tech oligarchs” who reflect the new global power dynamic, Mr. Türk warned, before urging governments to fulfil their primary purpose of protecting their people from unchecked power.

    Today’s tech oligarchs “have our data: they know where we live, what we do, our genes and our health conditions, our thoughts, our habits, our desires and our fears…And they know how to manipulate us,” the High Commissioner insisted.

    Electioneering tactics

    “I have followed recent election campaigns in Europe, North America and beyond with increasing trepidation. Single-issue soundbites devoid of substance oversimplify complex issues and are often based on scapegoating, disinformation, and dehumanization,” he continued.

    “Dehumanization is a well-worn step towards treating an entire group as outsiders, unworthy of the basic rights we all enjoy. It is a dangerous precursor to hate and violence and must be called out whenever it occurs.”

    UN Human Rights Council/Marie Bambi

    Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, presents his latest report on the obligation to ensure accountability and justice in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

    Toxic influence on gender equality

    The High Commissioner also voiced his concern about the resurgence of toxic ideas about masculinity and efforts to glorify gender stereotypes, especially among young men.

    To blame for this are “misogynistic influencers” with millions of followers on social media who “are hailed as heroes”, Mr. Türk said.

    Online and offline, their ideas push back against gender equality and result in “violence and hateful rhetoric against women, women’s rights defenders, and women politicians”, the High Commissioner continued. 

    In a message of solidarity with people who have been left “feeling alienated and abandoned” by such malign influences, Mr. Türk insisted that the United Nations was by their side. “Your concerns are our concerns, because they are about human rights: to education, to health, to housing, to free speech, and access to justice. Human rights are about people’s daily concerns for their families and their future. We must cherish the values of respect, unity and solidarity; and work together for a safer, more just, more sustainable world. We can and will persevere,” he concluded.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: ZOOZ Power: Leading Charge Point Operator in China to install ZOOZ Power’s Boosting System, Marking Strategic Entry into the World’s Largest EV Market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Tel-Aviv, Israel, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ZOOZ Power Ltd. (Nasdaq: ZOOZ, TASE: ZOOZ), a leading provider of flywheel-based power boosters and energy management systems for enabling ultra-fast EV charging solutions, announced today that it has shipped its first power-boosting system, the ZOOZTER™-100, to China. The commercial arrangements were made through a related party of ZOOZ Power in China. The site where ZOOZTER™-100 will be installed was developed by Yixiaoju Technology Co., Ltd, a company that operates numerous locations within the Orange Charging (Xiaoju) network. Orange Charging, a sub-brand of DiDi’s energy sector, is China’s largest charging network, operating over 115,000 fast chargers. As the foremost mobility services platform in China and a publicly traded company in the U.S. with a market cap of $24.3 billion, DiDi’s ecosystem offers a significant opportunity for ZOOZ Power to extend its presence in this rapidly growing market.

    China’s electric vehicle (EV) market is experiencing unprecedented growth, with EVs accounting for nearly 50% of total car sales in 2024(1). This surge highlights the increasing demand for efficient charging solutions. In addition to enhancing the capabilities of Yixiaoju’s charging station, the Shanghai pilot installation will also serve as a vehicle for market penetration of ZOOZ Power’s flywheel-based power-boosting technology coupled with ZOOZ’s proven Energy Management System to the Chinese market. By providing a reliable and highly efficient solution for high-power EV charging, ZOOZ Power aims to support the expansion of ultra-fast charging networks while reducing the strain on local electricity grids.

    “Shipping our first system to China is a significant step in ZOOZ Power’s penetration into the Chinese market,” said Erez Zimerman, CEO of ZOOZ Power. “China is the undisputed leader in electric vehicle adoption and charging infrastructure, and we see tremendous potential for our technology in this market. We are thrilled to have an opportunity to demonstrate the benefits of our sustainable power-boosting solution to China’s top EV players. This is just the beginning of our journey in China, and we look forward to further opportunities to contribute to the country’s ambitious electrification goals.”

    ZOOZ Power’s innovative flywheel-based technology enables ultra-fast charging even in locations with limited grid capacity, eliminating the need for expensive grid upgrades and while maximizing charging station effectiveness. The company’s solution has already been deployed in multiple locations across Europe and North America, and this latest move signals its strategic focus on expanding into China’s rapidly growing EV market.

    About ZOOZ Power

    ZOOZ is the leading provider of Flywheel-based Power Boosting and Energy Management solutions, enabling the widespread deployment of ultra-fast charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) while overcoming existing grid limitations.

    ZOOZ pioneers its unique flywheel-based power-boosting technology, enabling efficient utilization and power management of a power-limited grid at an EV charging site. Its Flywheel technology allows high-performance, reliable, and cost-effective ultra-fast charging infrastructure.

    ZOOZ Power’s sustainable, power-boosting solutions are built with longevity and the environment in mind, helping its customers and partners accelerate the deployment of fast-charging infrastructure, thus facilitating improved utilization rates, better efficiency, greater flexibility, and faster revenues and profitability growth. ZOOZ is publicly traded on NASDAQ and TASE under the ticker ZOOZ
    For more information, please visit: www.zoozpower.com/

    Investor Contact:
    Miri Segal – CEO
    MS-IR LLC
    msegal@ms-ir.com

    Media enquiries:
    Media@zoozpower.com

    Forward-Looking Statement

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the safe-harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are based on the current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions of ZOOZ Power. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding ZOOZ Power, and any of ZOOZ Power’s strategy, future operations and statements related to the collaboration between ZOOZ Power and “ON” charging network (including any plans to implement ZOOZ Power’s solution and upgrade an additional site of “ON” on Route 6) are forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause ZOOZ Power’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks and other risks and uncertainties are more fully discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of ZOOZ’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) as well as other documents that may be subsequently filed by the Company from time to time with the SEC. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to deployment of public ultra-fast charging infrastructure, the potential outcome of ZOOZ Power’s collaborations with third parties for installation of its flywheel-based power boosting solution, statements regarding the opportunity for ZOOZ Power to extend its presence in China, statements regarding growth in the Chinese market, statements regarding the expansion of ultra-fast charging networks and conditions in Israel and in the Middle East, including the effect of the evolving nature of the ongoing “Swords of Iron” war, may adversely affect ZOOZ Power’s operations. These forward-looking statements are only estimations, and ZOOZ Power may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in any forward-looking statements, so you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Actual results or events could differ materially from the plans, intentions and expectations disclosed in forward-looking statements made in this Press Release. Management of ZOOZ Power has based these forward-looking statements largely on current expectations and projections about future events and trends that such persons believe may affect ZOOZ Power’s business, financial condition and operating results. Forward-looking statements contained in this Press Release are made as of the date hereof, and none of ZOOZ Power or any of its representatives or any other person undertakes any duty to update such information except as may be expressly required under applicable law.

    1 https://www.asiafinancial.com/one-in-nearly-every-two-cars-sold-in-china-was-electric-in-2024

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP welcomes US$6.5 million donation from the Republic of Korea to bolster emergency food assistance across the Middle East

    Source: World Food Programme

    CAIRO – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomes a US$6.5 million contribution from the Republic of Korea that will enable the organization to sustain lifesaving assistance for vulnerable communities facing food insecurity across the Middle East.

    The funding will be used to support the continued distribution of vital food and cash to communities most in need in Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Türkiye where WFP plans to provide food assistance to nearly 7.7 million people this year. The contribution will also bolster ongoing recovery efforts for people affected by the deadly earthquakes that struck Türkiye in February 2023.

    “WFP is grateful for the Republic of Korea’s donation as the Middle East faces one of its most challenging times,” said Corinne Fleischer, WFP Regional Director for the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Europe. “This support is vital to keep our lifesaving operations going and to reach families in dire need. Food security is not just about meeting urgent needs, it supports national security and helps bring stability to this troubled region.” 

    The donation comes at a pivotal moment as humanitarian needs are surging across the Middle East driven by a convergence of regional and global challenges. Escalating regional tensions, economic turmoil and climate shocks have pushed millions of people to the brink, unable to access enough food to survive.

    The Republic of Korea has generously contributed over US$21 million to support WFP’s activities in the four countries over the last five years. 

    #                 #                   #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media and @WFP_MENA 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Odysight.ai to Participate at the 37th Annual ROTH Conference on March 17-18, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Omer, Israel, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Odysight.ai Inc. (Nasdaq: ODYS), a pioneering developer of AI systems for Predictive Maintenance (PdM) and Condition-Based Monitoring (CBM), today announced its participation at the 37th Annual ROTH Conference on March 17-18, 2025, in Dana Point, CA.

    Yehu Ofer, Chief Executive Officer, and Einav Brenner, Chief Financial Officer, will be available for one-on-one investor meetings on both days. To schedule a meeting, please contact your Roth representative.

    About the 37th Annual ROTH Conference

    This year’s event will consist of 1-on-1 / small group meetings, analyst-selected fireside chats, industry keynotes and panels with executive management attending from approximately 450 private and public companies in a variety of growth sectors including: Business Services, Consumer, Healthcare, Industrial Growth, Insurance, Resources, Sustainability and Technology, Media & Entertainment.

    About Odysight.ai

    Odysight.ai is pioneering the Predictive Maintenance (PdM) and Condition Based Monitoring (CBM) markets with its visualization and AI platform. Providing video sensor-based solutions for critical systems in the aviation, transportation, and energy industries, Odysight.ai leverages proven visual technologies and products from the medical industry. Odysight.ai’s unique video-based sensors, embedded software, and AI algorithms are being deployed in hard-to-reach locations and harsh environments across a variety of PdM and CBM use cases. Odysight.ai’s platform allows maintenance and operations teams visibility into areas which are inaccessible under normal operation, or where the operating ambience is not suitable for continuous real-time monitoring.

    We routinely post information that may be important to investors in the Investors section of our website. For more information, please visit: https://www.odysight.ai or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 relating to future events or our future performance. All statements contained in this press release that do not relate to matters of historical fact should be considered forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s intention to participate in the 37th Annual ROTH Conference. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Those statements are based on information we have when those statements are made or our management’s current expectation and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward- looking statements. Factors that may affect our results, performance, circumstances or achievements include, but are not limited to the following: (i) market acceptance of our existing and new products, including those that utilize our micro Odysight.ai technology or offer Predictive Maintenance and Condition Based Monitoring applications, (ii) lengthy product delays in key markets, (iii) an inability to secure regulatory approvals for the sale of our products, (iv) intense competition in the medical device and related industries from much larger, multinational companies, (v) product liability claims, product malfunctions and the functionality of Odysight.ai’s solutions under all environmental conditions, (vi) our limited manufacturing capabilities and reliance on third-parties for assistance, (vii) an inability to establish sales, marketing and distribution capabilities to commercialize our products, (viii) an inability to attract and retain qualified personnel, (ix) our efforts to obtain and maintain intellectual property protection covering our products, which may not be successful, (x) our reliance on a single customer that accounts for a substantial portion of our revenues, (xi) our reliance on single suppliers for certain product components, including for miniature video sensors which are suitable for our Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor technology products, (xii) the fact that we will need to raise additional capital to meet our business requirements in the future and that such capital raising may be costly, dilutive or difficult to obtain, (xiii) the impact of computer system failures, cyberattacks or deficiencies in our cybersecurity, (xiv) the fact that we conduct business in multiple foreign jurisdictions, exposing us to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, logistical, global supply chain and communications challenges, burdens and costs of compliance with foreign laws and political and economic instability in each jurisdiction and (xv) political, economic and military instability in Israel, including the impact of Israel’s war against Hamas and Hezbollah. These and other important factors discussed in Odysight.ai’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 26, 2024 and our other reports filed with the SEC could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements made in this press release. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, Odysight.ai undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Miri Segal
    MS-IR LLC
    msegal@ms-ir.com

    Company Contact:
    Einav Brenner, CFO
    info@odysight.ai

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What is isolationism? The history and politics of an often-maligned foreign policy concept

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Andrew Latham, Professor of Political Science, Macalester College

    Isolationism has deep roots in American foreign policy stretching back to George Washington. FotografiaBasica/Getty Images

    Few terms in American foreign policy discourse are as misunderstood or politically charged as “isolationism.”

    Often used as a political weapon, the term conjures images of a retreating America, indifferent to global challenges.

    However, the reality is more complex. For example, some commentators argue that President Donald Trump’s return to the White House signals a new era of isolationism. But others contend his foreign policy is more akin to “sovereigntism,” which prioritizes national autonomy and decision-making free from external constraints, and advocates for international engagement only when it directly serves a nation’s interests.

    Understanding isolationism’s role in U.S. policy requires a closer look at its historical roots and political usage.

    ‘Entangling alliances’

    The idea of avoiding foreign entanglements has been a part of American strategic thinking since the country’s founding. President George Washington’s famous warning against “entangling alliances” reflected a desire to insulate the young republic from European conflicts.

    Throughout the 19th century, this sentiment shaped U.S. policy, though not exclusively. The country expanded its influence in the Western Hemisphere, maintained strong economic ties abroad and occasionally intervened in regional affairs.

    This cautious approach allowed the U.S. to develop its economy and military strength without becoming deeply embroiled in European rivalries.

    After World War I, isolationism became more pronounced. The staggering human and financial costs of the war led many Americans to question deep international involvement. Skepticism toward President Woodrow Wilson’s League of Nations reinforced this sentiment, and in the 1930s, the U.S. passed Neutrality Acts designed to keep the country out of foreign wars. However, this approach proved unsustainable.

    Though getting increasingly involved in the European conflict in the years before the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, that day officially led the U.S. into World War II, marking the definitive end of traditional isolationism. With the war’s conclusion, American strategic thinking shifted, recognizing that even partial disengagement was no longer an option in a globalized world.

    Isolationism as a slur

    In the postwar era, isolationism devolved from a coherent strategic perspective into a term of political derision. During the Cold War, those who opposed military alliances like NATO or U.S. interventions in Korea and Vietnam were often dismissed as isolationists, regardless of their actual policy preferences.

    This framing marginalized critics of U.S. global engagement, even when their concerns were grounded in strategic prudence rather than a reflexive desire to withdraw from the world.

    The same pattern persisted going into the 21st century. In debates over U.S. involvement in Iraq, Afghanistan and Ukraine, critics of expansive military commitments were frequently labeled isolationists, despite advocating for a recalibration of foreign policy rather than outright disengagement.

    Many of those calling for an end to America’s “forever wars” did not argue for global retreat but for a prioritization of national interests over the broad defense of the so-called rules-based international order.

    A persistent myth is that isolationism represents a total disengagement from the world. Historically, even during its peak, isolationism in the U.S. was never absolute. Trade, diplomacy and cultural exchanges continued even in periods marked by reluctance to intervene militarily. What critics of interventionism have historically sought is prudence in foreign affairs – avoiding unnecessary wars while ensuring the protection of core national interests.

    Moving beyond isolationism

    In recent years, “restraint” has gained traction as a more precise and useful framework for U.S. foreign policy. Unlike isolationism, restraint does not imply withdrawal from global affairs but rather advocates a more selective and strategic approach.

    Proponents argue that the U.S. should avoid unnecessary wars, focus on core national interests and work with its allies to maintain stability rather than relying on unilateral military action. This perspective acknowledges the limits of American power and the risks of overextension while still recognizing the necessity of international engagement. Advocates of restraint suggest that recalibrating U.S. foreign policy would allow the country to address pressing domestic concerns while maintaining a strong international presence where it matters most.

    As the U.S. reassesses decades of intervention, restraint offers a middle path between disengagement and unrestrained global activism. It encourages a more thoughtful and sustainable approach to foreign policy that prioritizes long-term stability and national interests over automatic involvement in conflicts.

    Moving beyond the outdated and politically charged debate over isolationism would, I believe, allow for a more productive conversation about how the U.S. can engage globally in a way that is both effective and aligned with its strategic interests.

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

    – ref. What is isolationism? The history and politics of an often-maligned foreign policy concept – https://theconversation.com/what-is-isolationism-the-history-and-politics-of-an-often-maligned-foreign-policy-concept-245201

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Kaltura Launches AI-Powered ‘TV Genie’, Powering Hyper-Personalized Entertainment Experiences and Streamlining Content Enrichment and Curation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Kaltura (Nasdaq: KLTR), the Video Experience Cloud, today announced the launch of the Kaltura TV Genie which powers AI-infused entertainment experiences for live and on-demand streaming.   

      

    TV Genie enables media and telecommunication companies to offer hyper-personalized lean-forward viewing experiences for audiences, as well as streamline their operations through enhancement and automation of content enrichment and curation.   

      

    Kaltura’s TV Genie transforms endless content searches into instant engaging discovery by offering hyper-personalized viewing recommendations based on an unlimited array of parameters and preferences as well as real-time viewer feedback and mood. Audiences also benefit from real-time accessibility and localization for varying backgrounds and regions through automatic translation capabilities and improved navigation through advanced content chaptering, allowing users to easily skip to their desired viewing moments.    

      

    Alongside Kaltura’s recently launched AI Content Lab, TV Genie enables content editors and curators to instantly create short-form videos and textual summaries from long-form content, optimizing it for viewers with varying tastes. TV Genie also automatically curates and recommends content in real-time for editors based on their catalog and current trends to simplify their work and boost creativity, and allows editors to seamlessly generate thematic content rails, such as a collection of romantic films with happy endings, by simply requesting them.   

      

    “AI is collapsing the narrowing divide between content production, curation, distribution, and consumption, further boosting viewer engagement and monetization, while also reducing operational complexities and costs,” said Ron Yekutiel, Co-Founder, Chairman, President and CEO of Kaltura. “We are very excited about the launch of our TV Genie, which comes on the heels of our other AI agents, the Class and Work Genies. AI-infused video production and viewing experiences are set to massively increase the amount and impact of videos created and consumed at home, work, and school – further turning every company into a media company. We are thrilled to be enabling this transformative revolution.”   

      

    There are currently over 50 organizations participating in the Genie Series’ beta program, including large enterprises, education institutions, and media and telecom companies. One of the beta program participants, for example, is Reshet 13, one of Israel’s largest broadcasters, who uses TV Genie and Content Lab to produce concise, impactful news segments from its flagship hour-long evening news program. The network, which sees 3.5 million unique visitors on its digital platform every month, employs TV Genie’s AI-powered content indexing to create thematic video reels, such as compiling all Crème Pâtissière recipes featured in its highly popular cooking show Game of Chefs.   

      

    “Having worked with Kaltura for years to power our digital transformation, starting with the TV Genie was an obvious yes for us,” said Nir Cohen, VP of Digital and Current Affairs at Reshet 13. “We wanted to be able to rapidly transform our content into other formats, to increase its reach, and with TV Genie we believe our repurposed content will be exponentially improved, along with viewership and engagement rates.”    

    Kaltura’s Class, Work, and TV Genies are AI-powered Agents that create hyper-personalized video experiences across institutions, enterprises and media and telecoms companies. They harness the power of AI to increase the impact of videos for users while improving efficiency through automation and streamlined operations for the organization.   

      

    Learn more about Kaltura AI-infused video solutions, here   

    About Kaltura    

    Kaltura’s mission is to create and power AI-infused hyper-personalized video experiences that boost customer and employee engagement and success. Kaltura’s Video Experience Cloud includes a platform for enterprise and TV content management and a wide array of Gen AI-infused video-first products, including Video Portals, LMS and CMS Video Extensions, Virtual Events and Webinars, Virtual Classrooms, and TV Streaming Applications. Kaltura engages millions of end-users at home, at work, and at school, boosting both customer and employee experiences, including marketing, sales, and customer success; teaching, learning, training and certification; communication and collaboration; and entertainment and monetization. For more information, visit www.corp.kaltura.com.

      

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Wearable Devices to Showcase the World’s First Neural Sensing Wristband at MWC Barcelona 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Company will demonstrate its newly launched Mudra Link across multiple operating systems alongside the Mudra Dev-Kit, with a strong focus on Extended Reality (XR) and smart glasses applications

    Yokneam Illit, Israel, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wearable Devices Ltd. (the “Company” or “Wearable Devices”) (Nasdaq: WLDS, WLDSW), an award-winning pioneer in artificial intelligence (“AI”)-based wearable gesture control technology, today announced its participation at MWC Barcelona 2025 (“MWC 2025”), the world’s leading event for mobile technology and connectivity. The Company will showcase its latest advancements in neural gesture input technology, emphasizing the role of Mudra Link, the world’s first neural sensing wristband, in XR and Smart Glasses control, alongside the Mudra Band for Apple Watch. Wearable Devices will be exhibiting at Hall 5 – 5E61, from Monday, March 3 to Thursday, March 6, 2025.

    At MWC 2025, Wearable Devices invites attendees to experience the Mudra Link, the first neural gesture control wristband that enables seamless interaction across Android, macOS, and Windows devices using simple gestures like tap, swipe, pinch, and drag. With Mudra Link, users can control mobile devices, apps, and computers on any OS, offering an intuitive and touch-free user experience. More importantly, Mudra Link introduces new capabilities for controlling Smart Glasses and XR applications, allowing users to interact with augmented and virtual reality environments using natural hand gestures without the need for external controllers. This latest offering represents a major step in expanding neural gesture control beyond the Apple ecosystem, bringing Wearable Devices’ technology to a broader consumer audience.

    Alongside the Mudra Link, the Company will present a new Mudra Dev-Kit program (the “MDK Program”). The MDK Program is tailor-made for enterprises looking to both explore, build proof of concepts and pilots before deciding on the final neural band product experience. The MDK Program also includes onsite support and training of technical and marketing teams, sample code, a hands-on demo day covering multiple uses cases. The MDK Program accelerates time to market and boost visibility for the final product, and builds confidence in using the Company’s latest new and novel technology.

    Offir Remez, Executive Vice President of Business Development at Wearable Devices, stated, “MWC 2025 is a premier event for mobile technology, and we are excited to demonstrate how our AI-powered neural gesture control technology is revolutionizing user interactions. With the launch of the Mudra Link, we are expanding beyond Apple and bringing our technology to a wider audience across multiple platforms. Most significantly, our focus on XR and Smart Glasses opens new doors for intuitive user experiences in digital and virtual environments. We see strong interest from both consumers and industry partners and we are looking forward to seeing co-branded products shipped in volume soon.”

    Asher Dahan, Chief Executive Officer of Wearable Devices, added, “Our vision is to redefine the way users interact with technology, and our participation at MWC 2025 is a pivotal moment for us. The introduction of Mudra Link marks a major milestone, as it allows us to offer a universal neural control solution that integrates seamlessly across platforms, particularly for the emerging XR and Smart Glasses industry. Combined with the continued success of the Mudra Band for Apple Watch, we are driving the future of AI-powered, touchless interaction for consumers worldwide.”

    To book a meeting with our team and learn how you can integrate Mudra technology into your products and solutions, please fill out the form at this link.

    About Wearable Devices Ltd.

    Wearable Devices Ltd. is a pioneering growth company revolutionizing human-computer interaction through its AI-powered neural input technology for both consumer and business markets. Leveraging proprietary sensors, software, and advanced AI algorithms, the Company’s innovative products, including the Mudra Band for iOS and Mudra Link for Android, enable seamless, touch-free interaction by transforming subtle finger and wrist movements into intuitive controls. These groundbreaking solutions enhance gaming, and the rapidly expanding AR/VR/XR landscapes. The Company offers a dual-channel business model: direct-to-consumer sales and enterprise licensing. Its flagship Mudra Band integrates functional and stylish design with cutting-edge AI to empower consumers, while its enterprise solutions provide businesses with the tools to deliver immersive and interactive experiences. By setting the input standard for the XR market, Wearable Devices is redefining user experiences and driving innovation in one of the fastest-growing tech sectors. Wearable Devices’ ordinary shares and warrants trade on the Nasdaq under the symbols “WLDS” and “WLDSW,” respectively.

    Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” created by those sections. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believe,” “expect,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “seek,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “estimate,” “anticipate” or other comparable terms. For example, we are using forward-looking statements when we discuss the benefits and advantages of our devices and technology; the potential of neural gesture control technology to redefine user interactions; and the interest from both consumers and industry partners in our technology and devices. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release regarding our strategies, prospects, financial condition, operations, costs, plans and objectives are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: the trading of our ordinary shares or warrants and the development of a liquid trading market; our ability to successfully market our products and services; the acceptance of our products and services by customers; our continued ability to pay operating costs and ability to meet demand for our products and services; the amount and nature of competition from other security and telecom products and services; the effects of changes in the cybersecurity and telecom markets; our ability to successfully develop new products and services; our success establishing and maintaining collaborative, strategic alliance agreements, licensing and supplier arrangements; our ability to comply with applicable regulations; and the other risks and uncertainties described in our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed on March 15, 2024 and our other filings with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    Investor Relations Contact

    Michal Efraty
     IR@wearabledevices.co.il

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: French minister wraps up key talks in New Caledonia, returning late March

    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk

    French Minister for Overseas Manuel Valls left New Caledonia at the weekend after a one-week stay which was marked by the resumption of inclusive political talks on the French territory’s future.

    He has now submitted a “synthetical” working document to be discussed further and promised he would return later this month.

    During his week-long visit, Valls had taken time to meet New Caledonia’s main stakeholders, including political, economic, education, health, and civil society leaders.

    He has confirmed France’s main pillars for its assistance to New Caledonia, nine months after deadly and destructive riots broke out, leaving 14 dead, several hundred businesses destroyed, and thousands of job losses for a total estimated damage of 2.2 billion euros (NZ$4 billion).

    The French aid confirmed so far mainly consisted of a loan of up to 1 billion euros (NZ$1.8 billion) as well as grants to rebuild all damaged schools and some public buildings.

    Valls also announced French funding to pay unemployment benefits (which were to expire at the end of this month) were now to be extended until the end of June.

    However, the main feature of his stay, widely regarded as the major achievement, was to manage to gather all political tendencies (both pro-independence and those in favour of New Caledonia remaining a part of France) around the same table.

    The initial talks were first held at New Caledonia’s Congress on February 24.

    Two days later, talks resumed at the French High Commission between Wednesday and Friday last week, in the form of “tripartite” discussions between pro-France, pro-independence local parties and the French State.

    As some, especially the pro-independence umbrella FLNKS (Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front), insisted that those sessions were “discussions”, not “negotiations”, there was a general feeling that all participants now seemed to recognise the virtues of the exchanges and that they had at least managed to openly and frankly confront their respective views.

    Valls, who shared a feeling of relative success in view of what he described as a sense of “historic responsibility” from political stakeholders, even extended his stay by 24 hours.

    Speaking at the weekend, he said he had now left all parties with a document that was now supposed to synthesise all views expressed and the main items remaining to be further discussed.

    New Caledonia’s parties begin talks at the French High Commission in Nouméa last Wednesday. Image: RNZ Pacific/RRB

    ‘A situation no longer sustainable’
     “Political deadlocks, economic and social stagnation, violence, fear, and the lack of prospects for the territory’s inhabitants create a situation that is no longer sustainable. Everyone agrees on this observation,” the document states.

    A cautiously hopeful Valls said views would continue to be exchanged, sometimes by video conference.

    Taking part in the same visit last week was Eric Thiers, a special adviser to French Prime Minister François Bayrou.

    Valls also stressed he would return to New Caledonia sometime later this month, maybe March 22-23, depending on how talks and remote exchanges were going to evolve.

    In the meantime, the shared document would be subjected to many amendments and suggestions in order to take the shape of a fit-enough basis for a compromise acceptable by all.

    The work-in-progress document details a wide range of subjects, such as self-determination, the relationship with France, the transfer of powers, who would be in charge of international relations, independence, a future system of governance (including the organisation of the three provinces), the electoral roll for local elections, the notion of citizenship (with a proposed system of “points-based” accession system), all these under the generic notion of “shared destiny”.

    There was also a form of consensus on the fact that if a future text was to be submitted to popular approval by way of a referendum, it should not be based on a binary “yes” or “no” alternative, but on a comprehensive, wide-ranging “project”.

    On each of those topics, the draft takes into account the different and sometimes opposing views expressed and enumerates a number of possible options and scenarios.

    Based on this draft working document, the next round of talks would lead to a new agreement that is supposed to replace and offer a continuation to the ageing Nouméa Accord, signed in 1998 and install a new roadmap for New Caledonia’s future.

    As part of discussions, another topic was the future of New Caledonia’s great council of chiefs, the Customary Senate, and possible changes from its until-now consultative status to a more executive role to turn New Caledonia’s legislative system from a Congress-only system to a bicameral one (Congress-Parliament and a chiefly Senate).

    Struggling nickel mining industry
     The very sensitive question of New Caledonia’s nickel mining industry was also discussed, as the crucial industry, a very significant pillar of the economy, is undergoing its worst crisis.

    Since August 2024, one of its three factories and smelters, Koniambo (KNS) in the north of the main island has been mothballed and is still up for sale after its majority stakeholder, Anglo-Swiss Glencore, decided to withdraw after more than a decade of losses (more than 13 billion euros — NZ$24 billion).

    Another nickel-producing unit, in the South, Prony, is currently engaged in negotiations with potential investment companies, one South African, one from  the United Arab Emirates and the other Indian.

    New Caledonia’s historic nickel miner, Société le Nickel (SLN, a subsidiary of French giant Eramet), is still facing major hurdles to resume operations as it struggles to regain access to its mining sites.

    The situation was compounded by a changing competition pattern on the world scale, New Caledonia’s production prices being too high and Indonesia now clearly emerging as a world leader, producing much cheaper first-class nickel and in greater quantities.

    ‘A new nickel strategy is needed’, Valls says
     While political parties involved in the talks (all parties represented at the Congress) remained tight-lipped and media-elusive throughout last week, they recognised a spirit of “constructive talks” with a shared goal of “listening to each other”.

    However,  the views remain radically opposed, even irreconcilable — pro-independence supporters’ most clear-cut position (notably that from the Union Calédonienne) consists of a demand for a quick, full independence, with a “Kanaky Accord” to be signed this year, to be followed by a five-year “transition” period.

    On the pro-France side, one of the main bones of contention defended by the two main parties (Les Loyalistes and Rassemblement-LR) is to affirm that their determination to maintain New Caledonia as a part of France has been confirmed by three referenda (in 2018, 2020 and 2021) on self-determination.

    Pro-independence parties argue, however, that the third and last referendum, in December 2021, was boycotted by the pro-independence movement and that it was not legitimate, even though it was ruled by the courts as valid.

    They are also advocating for significant changes to be made in the way the three provinces are managed, a system described as “internal federalism” but decried by opponents as a form of separatism.

    In the pro-France camp, the Calédonie Ensemble party holds relatively more open views.

    In between are the more moderate pro-independence parties, PALIKA and UMP, which favour of a future status revolving around the notion of “independence in association with France”.

    ‘At least no one slammed the door’
     “At least no one slammed the door and that, already, is a good thing,” said pro-France leader and French MP Nicolas Metzdorf.

    “We’re still a long way away from a political compromise, but we have stopped moving further away from it,” he added, giving credit to Vall’s approach.

    On his part, Valls stressed that he did not want to rush things in order to “maintain the thread” of talks, but that provincial elections were scheduled to take place no later than 30 October 2025.

    “I don’t want to force things, I don’t want to break the thread . . . sometimes, we wanted to rush things, and that’s why it didn’t work,” he elaborated, in a direct reference to numerous and unsuccessful attempts by previous French governments, since 2022, to kick-start the comprehensive talks.

    “Some work will be done by video conference. I will always take my responsibilities, because we have to move forward”, Valls told public broadcaster NC la 1ère.

    He said France would then return with its proposals and offers.

    “And we will take our responsibilities. The debate cannot last for months and months. We respect everyone, but we have to move forward. There is no deadline, but we all know that there are provincial elections.”

    Those elections — initially scheduled in May 2024 and then in December 2024 — have already been postponed twice.

    They are supposed to elect the members of New Caledonia’s three provinces (North, South and Loyalty Islands), which in turn makes up the territory’s Congress and the proportional makeup of the government and election of President.

    All parties involved will now to consult with their respective supporters to get their go-ahead and a mandate to embark on full negotiations.

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

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UK/Egypt: PM call to President Sisi on Alaa Abdel Fattah ‘welcome’ but pressure must continue at this critical time

    Source: Amnesty International –

    © KHALED DESOUKI/AFP via Getty Images

    Keir Starmer raised case of Alaa Abdel Fattah during a call with Egyptian President today

    The timing is urgent – Alaa’s mother, Laila Soueif, is critically ill in hospital having spent more than 150 days on hunger strike

    “This cannot be a moment where too little action is taken too late” – Sacha Deshmukh

    Responding to news that the Prime Minister pressed for the release of jailed Egyptian-British activist Alaa Abdel Fattah during a phone call with the President of Egypt this afternoon, Sacha Deshmukh, Amnesty International UK’s Chief Executive, said: 

    “It is welcome news that the Prime Minister has raised the case of Alaa Abdel Fattah in a call with President Sisi today. This is an urgent time in the campaign for Alaa’s release – his mother’s health is in a critical condition having been on hunger strike for more than 150 days, desperate for the release of her son.

    “This cannot be a moment where too little action is taken too late. Whilst a phone call is a promising step, this needs to be the beginning of a sustained dialogue between the UK and Egyptian governments that results in the safe and prompt release of Alaa.

    “Keir Starmer must keep ramping up the pressure. The suffering that this whole family has had to endure must be put to an end.”

    View latest press releases

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHRC, India’s ITEC Executive capacity-building programme on human rights in partnership with the MEA for senior functionaries of NHRIs of Global South begins in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India (2)

    NHRC, India’s ITEC Executive capacity-building programme on human rights in partnership with the MEA for senior functionaries of NHRIs of Global South begins in New Delhi

    Inaugurating it, NHRC, India Chairperson, Justice Shri V. Ramasubramanian highlights India’s rich diverse cultural ethos with various castes, communities, art forms and languages and shared values binding its unity for centuries

    Says, there can’t be tailor-made solutions under international norms to addressing human rights problems in every country having its own diverse socio-economic and cultural realities

    Platforms like ITEC provide an opportunity to share and exchange each other’s rich cultural diversity and human rights values, to think and find ways on how best to address the ever-emerging human rights challenges

    Posted On: 03 MAR 2025 4:01PM by PIB Delhi

    The six-day Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Executive (ITEC) Capacity Building Programme on human rights for the NHRIs of Global South, being organized by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India in partnership with the Union Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) began in New Delhi today. About 47 participants from the NHRIs of 14 countries of the Global South have confirmed their participation. These are Madagascar, Uganda, Samoa, Timor Leste, DR Congo, Togo, Mali, Nigeria, Egypt, Tanzania, Mauritius, Burundi, Turkmenistan, and Qatar.

    Justice V. Ramasubramanian, Chairperson, NHRC, India in his inaugural address said that India is a country of rich diverse cultural ethos with various castes, communities, art forms and languages and yet it thrives in its unity of shared values and traditions for centuries. However, he said that diversity also comes with diverse problems requiring diverse solutions. Every country has its socio-cultural, political, and economic traditions and diversities may face challenges while addressing the human rights issues given their standardised approaches set to dealing with them following the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Therefore, solutions to the problems can’t be tailor-made for every country to follow.

    Justice Ramasubramanian said that such platforms like ITEC provide an opportunity to share and exchange each other’s rich cultural diversity and human rights values to think and find ways how best to address the ever-emerging human rights challenges in each country with its social, cultural, political and economic realities.

    He expressed his gratitude to the participating senior functionaries of the NHRIs of Global South and their countries for accepting NHRC, India’s invitation to depute them for participation. He also referred to many ancient Indian texts highlighting the human values and ethos practiced in the countries or centuries, which hold relevance even today for the whole world.

    Justice (Dr) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi, Member, NHRC, India in his remarks stated that the Commission has played a crucial role in shaping India’s human landscape through its wide-ranging initiatives. Unlike many Western approaches that emphasise individual freedom above all else, India follows a more balanced model that values both individual and collective rights. India’s engagement in international human rights forums reflects its dedication to building a just and equitable global order. He said that capacity-building initiatives like ITEC play a crucial role in expanding our knowledge and refining our skills. While engaging in this programme, let us recognise the need to contextualise human rights principles within our national realities while remaining steadfast in our commitment to universal values of dignity, justice and equality.

    Smt Vijaya Bharathi Sayani, Member, NHRC, India said that by sharing our collective wisdom and resources, we can significantly enhance the protection and promotion of human rights across our nations and regions in the scenario of constantly evolving global human rights landscape. She also highlighted some of the key thematic issues of human rights that are being focused on by the NHRC, India, including the rights of women and achieving gender equality, protecting marginalised communities, safeguarding vulnerable populations in the context of development and displacement, among others.

    NHRC, India Secretary General, Shri Bharat Lal in his opening remarks said that India traditionally always wants to share its most cherished knowledge and wisdom for the larger cause of humanity. This training has been organised with the same spirit wherein we hope and expect to learn from each other. He said that India has a federal structure of governance with 27 State Human Rights Commissions besides the National Human Rights Commission and other Commissions to address the issues of the rights and welfare of various segments of society. The NHRC, India is not just a human rights advocacy forum but responsible for enforcing human rights in the country.

    On the occasion, senior officers of the NHRC, India and MEA were present. The capacity building programme has several sessions on various aspects of human rights to be addressed by the eminent expert speakers with a national and international perspective.

    ***

    NSK

    (Release ID: 2107759) Visitor Counter : 29

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: US funding of the UN: UN Chief expresses concern | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Media Stakeout by UN Secretary-General António Guterres on US funding and other topics.

    —————————————

    UN Secretary-General António Guterres said, “The reduction of America’s humanitarian role and influence will run counter to American interests globally.”

    Addressing the press today (28 Feb), Guterres said expressed his deep concern about information received in the last 48 hours by UN agencies — as well as many humanitarian and development NGOs — regarding severe cuts in funding by the United States.

    He said, “These cuts impact a wide range of critical programmes. From lifesaving humanitarian aid, to support for vulnerable communities recovering from war or natural disasters. From development to the fight against terrorism and illicit drug trafficking. The consequences will be especially devastating for vulnerable people around the world.”

    He added, “We have been extremely grateful for the leading role the United States has provided over the decades. For example, thanks to the generosity of donors — led by the United States — the UN assists and protects more than 100 million people every year through our humanitarian programming.”

    He stated, “The message is clear. The generosity and compassion of the American people have not only saved lives, built peace and improved the state of the world. They have contributed to the stability and prosperity that Americans depend on.”
    He continued, “Now, going through with these cuts will make the world less healthy, less safe and less prosperous. The reduction of America’s humanitarian role and influence will run counter to American interests globally. I can only hope that these decisions can be reversed based on more careful reviews, and the same applies to other countries that have recently announced reductions in humanitarian and development aid.”

    Guterres also announced his travel to Cairo for the Gaza conference.

    He said, “Next Tuesday, I will be in Cairo to join the Extraordinary Summit of the League of Arab States to discuss the reconstruction of Gaza. Since the horrific attacks of terror by Hamas in Israel on October 7, the ensuing hostilities have unleashed an unprecedented level of death and destruction in Gaza.”

    He added, Tuesday’s Summit is an opportunity for leaders across the Arab world to come together and discuss the elements required to deliver peace and stability in Gaza. Their unified position will help guide the way forward.”

    He stressed, “All hostages must be released immediately, unconditionally and in a dignified manner. The parties must ensure humane treatment for all those held under their power and all transfers must be carried out in a dignified way and as per the terms of the deal.”

    He reiterated, “The ceasefire must hold. We must keep the humanitarian lifeline open. As part of this, I will once again appeal for the urgent and full support of UNRWA’s work.”

    He also said, “Ending the immediate crisis is only a first step. There must be a clear political framework that lays the groundwork for Gaza’s recovery, reconstruction and lasting stability.”

    He concluded, “The only path to lasting peace is one where two states — Israel and Palestine — live side by side in peace and security, in line with international law and relevant UN resolutions, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUblv7M_Nxo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI: GPTBots.ai and Qatar Science & Technology Park Strengthen Collaboration to Drive AI Innovation in the Middle East

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aurora Mobile Limited (NASDAQ: JG) (“Aurora Mobile” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China, today announced that its leading enterprise AI agent platform, GPTBots.ai, continues to strengthen its collaboration with Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), member of Qatar Foundation. QSTP is Qatar’s premier hub for technology development, innovation and entrepreneurship in the MENA region. This partnership, built on a shared vision of advancing artificial intelligence, has taken on new significance with the recent integration of DeepSeek, a revolutionary AI model that is reshaping the global AI landscape, into GPTBots.ai.

    A Partnership Rooted in Vision and Innovation

    Under the leadership of Dr. Jack Lau, President of QSTP, the park has established itself as a dynamic hub for technological innovation and collaboration. With a strong focus on bridging technology and academia, QSTP has cultivated an environment that supports the development and scaling of transformative solutions across sectors such as artificial intelligence, healthcare, energy and environment.

    “QSTP is committed to empowering businesses to leverage advanced technologies to address the region’s unique challenges,” said Dr. Lau. “The integration of DeepSeek into GPTBots.ai’s platform is a significant step forward, making AI more accessible and tailored for Middle Eastern enterprises. By fostering such collaborations, we aim to drive sustainable growth and position the region as a global hub for technological innovation.”

    DeepSeek Integration: A Game-Changer for Middle Eastern Enterprises

    The recent integration of DeepSeek into GPTBots.ai’s no-code AI platform marks a significant milestone in the partnership. DeepSeek’s cost-effective and efficient capabilities provide Middle Eastern enterprises with unprecedented opportunities to leverage AI for localized and industry-specific applications.

    Key benefits for regional businesses include:

    Affordability: DeepSeek’s lower development costs make AI adoption more accessible to businesses of all sizes.

    Localization: Tailored solutions optimized for Arabic and Gulf dialects, addressing a critical gap in the region’s AI landscape.

    Scalability: Seamless integration with GPTBots.ai’s platform enables rapid deployment of AI applications across industries such as government services, healthcare, and finance.

    Jerry Yin, Vice President of GPTBots.ai, emphasized the value of this integration:

    “DeepSeek’s affordability and efficiency, combined with GPTBots.ai’s no-code platform, create a powerful tool for Middle Eastern businesses to innovate and grow. Our partnership with QSTP provides the foundation for delivering these solutions at scale, ensuring that enterprises in the region can fully capitalize on the potential of AI.”

    GPTBots.ai and QSTP: A Proven Track Record of Success

    This strengthened collaboration builds on a history of impactful initiatives between GPTBots.ai and QSTP. In the past, GPTBots.ai partnered with QSTP-incubated startup sKora Tech to revolutionize AI applications in the sports industry. The partnership resulted in groundbreaking advancements, including personalized growth pathways for athletes and AI-driven sports management solutions.

    The renewed focus on collaboration aims to replicate and expand such success stories across other industries, fostering innovation and economic growth in the Middle East.

    A Vision for the Future

    As the Middle East continues its journey toward becoming a global hub for AI innovation, GPTBots.ai and QSTP remain committed to driving this transformation. By combining QSTP’s visionary leadership and GPTBots.ai’s cutting-edge technology, the partnership is poised to deliver solutions that address the region’s most pressing challenges while unlocking new opportunities for growth.

    “Our collaboration with QSTP is built on a shared belief in the transformative power of AI,” said Jerry Yin. “Together, we are creating a future where AI is not just accessible but also impactful, enabling businesses across the Middle East to thrive in an increasingly digital world.”

    About GPTBots.ai

    GPTBots.ai is a complementary general-purpose LLM AI bot featuring private data input and continuous fine-tuning, which can replace ‘rule-based’ chatbots, improve user experience, and reduce costs. GPTBots.ai aims to provide users with an end-to-end business platform that can seamlessly integrate robots into existing applications and workflows via plug-ins. GPTBots.ai also allow users to have great access to, and more efficiently and effectively using, AIGC to improve overall corporate productivity and output quality.

    To know more, please visit https://www.gptbots.ai.

    About Aurora Mobile Limited

    Founded in 2011, Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG) is a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China. Since its inception, Aurora Mobile has focused on providing stable and efficient messaging services to enterprises and has grown to be a leading mobile messaging service provider with its first-mover advantage. With the increasing demand for customer reach and marketing growth, Aurora Mobile has developed forward-looking solutions such as Cloud Messaging and Cloud Marketing to help enterprises achieve omnichannel customer reach and interaction, as well as artificial intelligence and big data-driven marketing technology solutions to help enterprises’ digital transformation.

    For more information, please visit https://ir.jiguang.cn/.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Among other things, the Business Outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Aurora Mobile’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Aurora Mobile may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Aurora Mobile’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Aurora Mobile’s strategies; Aurora Mobile’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Aurora Mobile’s ability to attract and retain customers; its ability to develop and effectively market data solutions, and penetrate the existing market for developer services; its ability to transition to the new advertising-driven SAAS business model; its ability to maintain or enhance its brand; the competition with current or future competitors; its ability to continue to gain access to mobile data in the future; the laws and regulations relating to data privacy and protection; general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and Aurora Mobile undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    For more information, please contact:

    Aurora Mobile Limited 
    E-mail: ir@jiguang.cn

    Christensen

    In China
    Ms. Xiaoyan Su
    Phone: +86-10-5900-1548
    E-mail: Xiaoyan.Su@christensencomms.com

    In U.S.
    Ms. Linda Bergkamp
    Phone: +1-480-614-3004
    Email: linda.bergkamp@christensencomms.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Mobile malware evolution in 2024

    Source: Securelist – Kaspersky

    Headline: Mobile malware evolution in 2024

    These statistics are based on detection alerts from Kaspersky products, collected from users who consented to provide statistical data to Kaspersky Security Network. The statistics for previous years may differ from earlier publications due to a data and methodology revision implemented in 2024.

    The year in figures

    According to Kaspersky Security Network, in 2024:

    • A total of 33.3 million attacks involving malware, adware or unwanted mobile software were prevented.
    • Adware, the most common mobile threat, accounted for 35% of total detections.
    • A total of 1.1 million malicious and potentially unwanted installation packages were detected, almost 69,000 of which associated with mobile banking Trojans.

    In 2024, cybercriminals launched a monthly average of 2.8 million malware, adware or unwanted software attacks targeting mobile devices. In total, Kaspersky products blocked 33,265,112 attacks in 2024.

    Attacks on Kaspersky mobile users in 2024 (download)

    At the end of 2024, we discovered a new distribution scheme for the Mamont banking Trojan, targeting users of Android devices in Russia. The attackers lured users with a variety of discounted products. The victim had to send a message to place an order. Some time later, the user received a phishing link to download malware disguised as a shipment tracking app.

    The phishing link as seen in the chat with the fraudsters

    See translation

    Your order has shipped.
    42609775
    Your order tracking code.
    You can track your order in the mobile app:
    https://.pilpesti573.ru/page/e5d565fdfd7ce
    Tracker
    To pay for your order AFTER YOU RECEIVE IT, enter your tracking code IN THE APP above and wait for your order details to load. We recommend keeping the app open while you are doing so. Loading the track code may take more than 30 minutes.

    In August 2024, researchers at ESET described a new NFC banking scam discovered in the Czech Republic. The scammers employed phishing websites to spread malicious mods of the legitimate app NFCGate. These used a variety of pretexts to persuade the victim to place a bank card next to the back of their phone for an NFC connection. The card details were leaked to the fraudsters who then made small contactless payments or withdrew money at ATMs.

    A similar scheme was later spotted in Russia, where malware masqueraded as banking and e-government apps. The SpyNote RAT was occasionally used as the malware dropper and NFC activator.

    A screenshot of the fake mobile app

    See translation

    Hold your card against the NFC contactless payment module for verification.
    Ready to scan

    Also in 2024, we detected many new preinstalled malicious apps that we assigned the generalized verdict of Trojan.AndroidOS.Adinstall. A further discovery, made in July, was the LinkDoor backdoor, also known as Vo1d, installed on Android-powered TV set-top boxes. It was located inside an infected system application com.google.android.services. The malware was capable of running arbitrary executables and downloading and installing any APKs.

    On top of the above, we discovered several apps on Google Play, each containing a malicious SDK implant named “SparkCat”, which began to spread at least as early as March 2024. Infected apps were deleted by the store in February 2025: nevertheless, our telemetry data shows that other apps containing SparkCat are distributed through unofficial sources.

    This SDK received a C2 server command with a list of keywords or dictionaries to search the gallery on the device for images to exfiltrate. Our data suggests that the Trojan was aimed at stealing recovery phrases for cryptocurrency wallets of Android users primarily in the UAE, Europe and Asia.

    It is worth noting that the same implant for iOS was delivered via the App Store, which makes it the first known OCR malware to sneak into Apple’s official marketplace. Apple removed the infected apps in February 2025.

    Mobile threat statistics

    We discovered 1,133,329 malicious and potentially unwanted installation packages in 2024. This was below the 2023 figure, but the difference was smaller than the year before. The trend in the number of new unique malware installation packages appears to be plateauing.

    Detected Android-specific malware and unwanted software installation packages in 2021–2024 (download)

    Detected packages by type

    Detected mobile apps by type in 2023 and 2024 (download)

    Adware and RiskTool apps continued to dominate the rankings of detected threats by type. The BrowserAd (22.8%), HiddenAd (20.3%) and Adlo (16%) families accounted for the largest number of new installation packages in the former category. RiskTool’s share grew largely due to an increase in the number of Fakapp pornographic apps.

    Share* of users attacked by the given type of malware or unwanted software out of all targeted Kaspersky mobile users in 2023–2024 (download)

    *The total may exceed 100% if the same users experienced multiple attack types.

    Banking Trojans gained three positions as compared with 2023 to occupy fourth place, following the usual leaders: adware, Trojans, and RiskTool.

    TOP 20 most frequently detected types of mobile malware

    Note that the malware rankings below exclude riskware and potentially unwanted apps, such as adware and RiskTool.

    Verdict %* 2023 %* 2024 Difference in p.p. Change in ranking
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Fakemoney.v 11.76 16.64 +4.88 +2
    DangerousObject.Multi.Generic. 14.82 11.13 –3.70 –1
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Triada.ga 0.00 6.64 +6.64
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Mamont.bc 0.00 5.36 +5.36
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Boogr.gsh 6.81 4.71 –2.10 –3
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Triada.fd 1.16 4.45 +3.29 +19
    DangerousObject.AndroidOS.GenericML 2.39 4.35 +1.96 +3
    Trojan-Downloader.AndroidOS.Dwphon.a 0.77 3.59 +2.82 +26
    Trojan-Spy.AndroidOS.SpyNote.bz 0.43 3.40 +2.97 +48
    Trojan-Spy.AndroidOS.SpyNote.bv 0.37 2.69 +2.32 +57
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Fakeapp.hk 0.00 2.51 +2.51
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Triada.gs 0.00 2.50 +2.50
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Triada.gn 0.00 2.02 +2.02
    Trojan-Downloader.AndroidOS.Agent.mm 1.46 1.91 +0.45 +6
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Triada.gm 0.00 1.84 +1.84
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Generic. 3.63 1.83 –1.80 –8
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Fakemoney.bw 0.00 1.82 +1.82
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Agent.rj 0.00 1.63 +1.63
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Fakemoney.bj 0.00 1.61 +1.61
    Trojan-Spy.AndroidOS.SpyNote.cc 0.06 1.54 +1.47

    * Share of unique users who encountered this malware as a percentage of all attacked Kaspersky mobile users

    Fakemoney, a family of investment and payout scam apps, showed the highest level of activity in 2024. Third-party WhatsApp mods with the Triada.ga embedded Trojan were third, following the generalized cloud-specific verdict of DangerousObject.Multi.Generic. Many other messaging app mods in the same family, namely Triada.fd, Triada.gs, Triada.gn and Triada.gm, hit the TOP 20 too.

    Mamont banking Trojans, ranking fourth by number of attacked users, gained high popularity with cybercriminals. These malicious apps come in a multitude of variants. They typically target users’ funds via SMS or USSD requests. One of them spreads under the guise of a parcel tracking app for fake online stores.

    Various malware files detected by machine learning technology ranked fifth (Trojan.AndroidOS.Boogr.gsh) and seventh (DangerousObject.AndroidOS.GenericML). They were followed by the Dwphon Trojan that came preinstalled on certain devices. The SpyNote RAT Trojans, which remained active throughout the year, occupied ninth, tenth and twentieth places.

    Region-specific malware

    This section describes malware types that mostly affected specific countries.

    Verdict Country* %**
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Agent.nw Turkey 99.58
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Piom.axdh Turkey 99.58
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.BrowBot.q Turkey 99.18
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.BrowBot.w Turkey 99.15
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Piom.bayl Turkey 98.72
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.BrowBot.a Turkey 98.67
    Trojan-Spy.AndroidOS.SmsThief.wp India 98.63
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Rewardsteal.fa India 98.33
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Piom.bbfv Turkey 98.31
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.BrowBot.n Turkey 98.14
    HackTool.AndroidOS.FakePay.c Brazil 97.99
    Backdoor.AndroidOS.Tambir.d Turkey 97.87
    Trojan.AndroidOS.Piom.bcqp Turkey 97.79
    HackTool.AndroidOS.FakePay.i Brazil 97.65
    Backdoor.AndroidOS.Tambir.a Turkey 97.62
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Coper.b Turkey 97.45
    HackTool.AndroidOS.FakePay.h Brazil 97.39
    Trojan-Spy.AndroidOS.SmsThief.ya India 97.09
    Trojan-Spy.AndroidOS.SmsThief.wm India 97.09
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Rewardsteal.hi India 96.68

    * Country where the malware was most active
    * Share of unique users who encountered the malware in the indicated country as a percentage of all Kaspersky mobile security users attacked by the malware

    Turkey and India accounted for the majority of region-specific threats in 2024. A variety of banking Trojans continued to be active in Turkey. Piom Trojans were associated with GodFather and BrowBot banker campaigns.

    Users in India were attacked by Rewardsteal bankers and a variety of SmsThief SMS spies. Our quarterly reports have covered FakePay utilities widespread in Brazil and designed to defraud sellers by imitating payment transactions.

    Mobile banking Trojans

    The number of new banking Trojan installation packages dropped again to 68,730 as compared to the previous year.

    The number of mobile banking Trojan installation packages detected by Kaspersky in 2021–2024 (download)

    The total number of banker attacks increased dramatically over 2023’s level despite the drop in the number of unique installation packages. The trend has persisted for years. This may suggest that scammers began to scale down their efforts to generate unique applications, focusing instead on distributing the same files to a maximum number of victims.

    TOP 10 mobile bankers

    Verdict %* 2023 %* 2024 Difference in p.p. Change in ranking
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Mamont.bc 0.00 36.70 +36.70
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Agent.rj 0.00 11.14 +11.14
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Mamont.da 0.00 4.36 +4.36
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Coper.a 0.51 3.58 +3.07 +30
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.UdangaSteal.b 0.00 3.17 +3.17
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Agent.eq 21.79 3.10 –18.69 –4
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Mamont.cb 0.00 3.05 +3.05
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Bian.h 23.13 3.02 –20.11 –7
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Faketoken.z 0.68 2.96 +2.29 +18
    Trojan-Banker.AndroidOS.Coper.c 0.00 2.84 +2.84

    * Share of unique users who encountered this malware as a percentage of all users of Kaspersky mobile security solutions who encountered banking threats

    Conclusion

    The number of unique malware and unwanted software installation packages continued to decline year to year in 2024. However, the rate of that decline slowed down. The upward trend in mobile banking Trojan activity persisted despite the years-long decrease in unique installation packages.

    Cybercriminals kept trying to sneak malware into official app stores like Google Play, but we also discovered a fair number of diverse preinstalled malicious apps in 2024. Speaking of interesting techniques first spotted last year, the use of NFC for stealing bank card data stands out.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: French support keeps UNHAS flying in Afghanistan

    Source: World Food Programme

    KABUL – A timely EUR 1 million contribution from the Government of France to WFP in Afghanistan in 2024 helped keep United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) operational in the country, maintaining a vital lifeline for aid workers and relief supplies.

    The support allowed UNHAS to transport aid workers from UN agencies, non-governmental organizations and other partners as well as essential cargo like food, medical supplies and emergency shelter materials to remote locations across the country.

    “France is proud to support UNHAS, a crucial lifeline delivering humanitarian aid to the most vulnerable populations in Afghanistan and all over the world,” said H.E. Ms Céline Jurgensen, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of France to the United Nations in Rome.

    UNHAS currently flies aid workers to 25 destinations across the country, many of them remote and inaccessible. Earlier in 2024, UNHAS also operated an international airbridge connecting Kabul with Doha, Qatar and Dubai, United Arab Emirates, ensuring quick and reliable delivery of humanitarian assistance and safe transport for aid workers to sustain life-saving operations. After commercial airlines started serving these destinations reliably, these destinations were discontinued. UNHAS still flies to Islamabad, Pakistan and Dushanbe, Tajikistan, twice a week.

    “UNHAS enables humanitarian aid workers to reach and support vulnerable populations in remote, hard-to-access areas while also providing them with peace of mind, knowing that medical evacuations and security relocations are available in critical situations,” said Mutinta Chimuka, WFP’s acting Country Director in Afghanistan. “We are grateful for the generous support from our partners who help WFP keep UNHAS in the air.”

    The Government of France has been a dedicated supporter of WFP in Afghanistan, contributing nearly US$9 million in 2023 and over US$6.5 million in 2024. This unwavering commitment places France squarely among the top ten donors for WFP in Afghanistan. 

    #                 #                   #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on Twitter: @wfp_media @WFP_Afghanistan

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ANGELUS – Pope Francis from Gemelli Hospital: I am learning even more to trust in the Lord, from here, war appears even more absurd

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Sunday, 2 March 2025

    Rome (Agenzia Fides) – “Sisters and brothers, I am still sending you these thoughts from the hospital, where as you know I have been for several days, accompanied by doctors and healthcare professionals, whom I thank for the attention with which they are taking care of me. I feel in my heart the “blessing” that is hidden within frailty, because it is precisely in these moments that we learn even more to trust in the Lord; at the same time, I thank God for giving me the opportunity to share in body and spirit the condition of so many sick and suffering people”.This is the text message that Pope Francis sends from the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, written on the occasion of the Angelus, for the third consecutive time released without having been pronounced by the Pontiff, hospitalized since February 14 at the Roman hospital for bilateral pneumonia. Commenting on today’s Gospel, where we read about the famous passage of the beam and the splinter in the eye (see Luke 6:39-45), the Pontiff points out that Jesus “asks us to train our eyes to observe the world well and to judge our neighbour with charity. Only with this gaze of care, not condemnation, can fraternal correction be a virtue. Because if it is not fraternal, it is not correction!”.The Bishop of Rome, who this morning – as reported by the director of the Vatican Press Office – received a visit from the Cardinal Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin, and the Substitute for General Affairs of the Secretariat of State of the Holy See, Archbishop Edgar Pena Parra, then thanks “the many faithful” who “from many parts of the world” are showing him affection: “I would like to thank you for the prayers, which rise up to the Lord from the heart: I feel all your affection and closeness and, at this particular time, I feel as if I am “carried” and supported by all God’s people. Thank you all!””I pray for you too. And I pray above all for peace. From here, war appears even more absurd. Let us pray for tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan and Kivu”, concludes the Pope, relaunching the appeal for peace in the world. (F.B.) (Agenzia Fides, 2/3/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah says, the Modi government is unsparing in punishing drug traffickers who drag our youth into the dark abyss of addiction for the greed of money

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah says, the Modi government is unsparing in punishing drug traffickers who drag our youth into the dark abyss of addiction for the greed of money

    As a result of a foolproof investigation with a bottom-to-top and top-to-bottom strategy, 29 drug traffickers have been convicted by the court in 12 different cases across India

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Government pledges to continue combating the drug menace with ruthless and meticulous investigations to build a drug-free Bharat

    In pursuit to Modi government’s Zero Tolerance policy against drugs, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has achieved this significant success

    Posted On: 02 MAR 2025 11:33AM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that the Modi Government is unsparing in punishing drug traffickers who drag our youth into the dark abyss of addiction for the greed of money.

    In a post on X platform, Shri Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Government pledges to continue combating the drug menace with ruthless and meticulous investigations to build a drug-free Bharat.

    Home Minister said that as a result of a foolproof investigation with a bottom-to-top and top-to-bottom strategy, 29 drug traffickers have been convicted by the court in 12 different cases across India.

    This success is a testament to the ‘Bottom to Top’ and ‘Top to Bottom’ approach adopted under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah. In pursuit to Modi government’s Zero Tolerance policy against drugs, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has achieved this significant success.

    The details of 12 cases are:

    Ahmedabad Zone

    1.     On 27.07.2019, NCB Ahmedabad Zonal Unit seized 23.859 Kg of Charas at Sabarmati Railway Station, Ahmedabad Gujarat from the possession of Mohd. Rizwan and Mohd. Jishan and a case was registered vide NCB Ahmedabad Crime No 05/2019 and above mentioned two persons were arrested. During the course of investigation, one Sahidul Rehman was arrested. After completion of investigation, a complaint was filed against the above three persons under NDPS Act before the learned Judge at City Civil and Sessions Court Ahmedabad. After completion of trial of the case, the judgment was pronounced by the Court on 29.01.2025 and all the 03 accused persons were convicted for Rigorous Imprisonment for 14 years and a fine of Rs. 01 lakh each.

     

    Bhopal Zone (Mandsaur)

    2.     In July 2022, NCB Mandsaur, intercepted, a Harrier and a Verna on National Highway 43, at Dhruwar Toll Plaza in Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh and seized 123.080 kgs Ganja. Shivam Singh (owner of the seized vehicles), Sant Kumar Yadav, Balmukund Mishra & Uttam Singh (all carrier) were arrested in the case. The consignment was sourced from Koraput (Odisha) and was destined for Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The Investigation team further arrested the receiver of contraband named Suresh Kumar Bind. On 24.02.2025, the Special NDPS Court, Shahdol convicted the four accused Shivam Singh, Sant Kumar Yadav, Balmukund Mishra & Uttam Singh and sentenced them to 12 years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 2 lakh each.

    Chandigarh Zone

    3.     A parcel containing two hockey sticks packed with 438 grams of opium was intercepted at DHL Express, Ludhiana, by the officers of NCB Chandigarh. The parcel was booked by accused Nasib Singh, with Gobind Singh accompanying him during the booking. A case NCB Crime No. 06/2024 was registered, and a complaint was filed after investigation. The Special Court, Ludhiana on 31.01.25, has pronounced its verdict and convicted Nasib Singh and Gobind Singh (Head munshi Punjab Police) under Sections 18(c), 23, 28, and 29 of the NDPS Act, 1985, sentencing them accordingly for their role in attempting to transport opium to Canada. The Court sentenced both the convicts with 3 years rigorous imprisonment and a fine of ₹10,000 (in default, one additional month of imprisonment) under NDPS Act.

    4.     On 30.12.2021, NCB Chandigarh Zonal Unit intercepted Bhim Lama at Chandigarh Railway Station, before he could board Paschim Express to Mumbai in possession of 390 grams of Charas. The accused was formally arrested, and upon completion of the investigation, the case was presented before the Special Court. The accused voluntarily confessed to his guilt, leading to his conviction. On 08.01.2025, The Special Court, Chandigarh, convicted Bhim Lama under Section 20 of the NDPS Act, 1985 for possession of 390 grams of Charas. The court, considering the remorse shown by the convict and the non-commercial quantity of the contraband, awarded 6 months of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of ₹5,000 (one additional month of imprisonment in case of default on fine payment) under NDPS Act.

    Cochin Zone

    5.     On 19.06.2021 NCB Cochin intercepted a Zimbabwean lady named Sharon Chigwaza on her arrival at the Cochin International Airport. Sharon Chigwaza was travelling from Johannesburg to Kochi via Doha by Qatar Airways. Further examination of her checked-in luggage led to the recovery and seizure of 2.910kg Heroin. Accordingly, the said lady was arrested and a case OR No. 04/2021 was registered by the NCB Cochin Zonal Unit. On completion of investigation, a complaint bearing SC No. 554/2022 was filed before the District & Sessions Court, Ernakulam.  The trial was conducted before the VII Additional District & Sessions Court, Ernakulam and on completion of the trial, the Court has found Sharon Chigwaza to be guilty of the offences under Sec 8(c) read with 21(c) and 23(c) of NDPS Act, 1985 for possession and illegal import of the seized contraband. In the detailed judgment pronounced on 29.01.2025, the Court has punished the accused with 11 years rigorous imprisonment and fine of Rs.3,00,000/-.

    Dehradun Zone

    6.     On 05.01.2018, NCB Dehradun seized 450 grams of Charas, leading to the arrest of Naman Bansal. Further investigation in the case led to the arrest of one more co-accused person namely of Ashutosh Uniyal, a resident of Dehradun, on  19.02.2018. After completion of trial proceedings, the NDPS Court, Dehradun (UKD) convicted accused Naman Bansal with 01-year RI and with fine of Rs. 20,000/- on 18.01.2025.

    Delhi Zone

    7.     On 19.03,2021, NCB Delhi Zonal Unit seized 1.950 kg of Charas from the possession of two accused persons namely Sahi Ram and Satywan @ Pandit, and arrested them for trafficking of the seized substance. After a thorough investigation, a complaint was filed in the NDPS Court, Jind (Haryana) under NDPS Case No. 11/2021. The Court convicted both the accused to 10 years RI and with fine of Rs. 01 lakh each on 10.01.2025.

     

    Hyderabad Zone

    8.     On 24.02.2021, officers of NCB Hyderabad Zone seized 681.8 Kg Ganja at Pedda Amberpet Toll Plaza on Nehru Outer Ring Road, Hayathnagar Mandal, Ranga Reddy District. The contraband was being transported in three vehicles: Mahindra Bolero Pick-Up, Honda City, and Swift Dezire from Sileru, Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) to Pune and Osmanabad via Hyderabad. Eight accused namely Suresh Shyamrao Pawar, Vishal Ramesh Pawar,  Balaji Ramdas Ware,  Manoj Vilas Dhotre,  Dhyaneshwar Lalasaheb Deshmukh , Ramraje Chaturbhuj Gunjale ,  Akshay Anant Gandhi  and  Sachin Dagadu Sanap ,  were arrested and charged for drug trafficking. the Additional District & Sessions Court, Ranga Reddy, convicted all eight accused and sentenced them to 10 years of Rigorous Imprisonment and imposed a fine of ₹1 lakh under the NDPS Act, 1985.

    Indore Zone

    9.     In September 2021, NCB Indore intercepted a truck on National Highway 07 at Alonia Toll Plaza in Seoni, Madhya Pradesh and seized 152.665 kgs Ganja. Mahendra Singh Yadav & Sohail Daud Khan Pathan were arrested in the case. The consignment was sourced from Vishakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) and was destined for Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh.  Investigation team further arrested the receiver Suresh Gupta & Co-receiver as well as owner of seized truck Ram Babu Yadav. On 22.02.2025, the Special NDPS Court, Seoni convicted all the four accused and sentenced them to 15 years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 1 lakh each.

    Kolkata Zone

    10.    On 11.07.2020, officers of NCB Kolkata Zone seized 1301 Kgs of Ganja from a TATA 709 Light Goods Vehicle (LGV) bearing Regn No. WB 15 A 3873 at NH12 between Plassey and Krishnanagar near Paglachandi, as per NCB Cr. No. 15/2020. Two accused namely Sahajan Tarafdar and Uttam Debnath were arrested and charged for drug trafficking. The trial continued for over 04 years. On 21.02.2025, the NDPS Spl. Court, Nadia at Krishnanagar convicted the accused Shajahan Tarafdar for 15 years rigorous imprisonment with Rs 1 lakh fine under the NDPS Act, 1985.

    Lucknow Zone

    11.    On 14.02.2022, NCB Lucknow seized 3.1 kilograms of Charas/Hashish from the possession of the accused, Dashrath, son of Devdutt, residing in Chiripur, PS Sirsiya, District Shrawasti, Uttar Pradesh. He was arrested and after investigation a Complaint was filed u/s 8, 20, and 29 of the NDPS Act, 1985. The Additional District Court Shravasti found the accused, Dashrath, ‘Guilty’ of illicit drug trafficking and sentenced him to 15 years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of 150,000 rupees on 02.01.2025.

    12.    On 04.01.2024, NCB Lucknow seized 08 kilograms of Opium from the possession of the accused, Dheeraj Kr. Dangi, son of Late Baijnath Dangi, residing in Villlage, Post, &  Police Station- Gidhour, District- Chatra, Jharkhand. He was arrested, and after investigation a Complaint was filed u/s 8, 18, and 29 of the NDPS Act, 1985. The Additional District Court Bareilly found the accused, Dheeraj Kr. Dangi, ‘Guilty’ of illicit drug trafficking and sentenced him to 11 years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of 1,00,000 rupees on 21.02.2025.

    These convictions exemplify the NCB’s dedication to ensure successful prosecution of its cases filed before courts. Under the guidance of Union Home Minister and Minister of Coordination, Shri Amit Shah NCB is working relentlessly to realise Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji’s vision of Nasha Mukt Bharat by 2047. NCB seeks support of people in the fight against drugs. Information about drug trafficking can be provided confidentially at NCB’s MANAS Helpline Number 1933.

    *****

    RK/VV/ASH/RR/PS

    (Release ID: 2107483) Visitor Counter : 17

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHRC, India in partnership with Ministry of External Affairs to organise ITEC Executive Capacity Building Programme on human rights for senior-level functionaries of the NHRIs of Global South

    Source: Government of India

    NHRC, India in partnership with Ministry of External Affairs to organise ITEC Executive Capacity Building Programme on human rights for senior-level functionaries of the NHRIs of Global South

    The 6-day programme will begin on the 3rd March at New Delhi

    The programme aims to provide insights into various dimensions of human rights, international perspectives and share the NHRC, India’s experience to enhance awareness among participants of various NHRIs

    Posted On: 02 MAR 2025 4:39PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India in collaboration with the Union Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is organizing a six-day Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Executive Capacity Building Programme on human rights for senior-level functionaries of the National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) of Global South at New Delhi from 3rd – 8th March, 2025. 47 participants from the NHRIs of 14 countries of Global South are likely to attend it. These are Madagascar, Uganda, Samoa, Timor Leste, DR Congo, Togo, Mali, Nigeria, Egypt, Tanzania, Mauritius, Burundi, Turkmenistan, Qatar. This customized programme has been developed in accordance to the need of NHRIs of participating countries and feedback provided earlier. Eminent persons with domain knowledge and expertise in capacity building and imparting training, will be the resource persons. The programme will be inaugurated by Chairperson of the NHRC, India Justice V. Ramasubramanian on Monday, 3rd march, 2025.

    The programme aims to provide insights into various dimensions of human rights, international perspectives, and share NHRC, India’s experience over the past three decades to enhance awareness among participants of various NHRIs. It seeks to strengthen South–South cooperation, enhance collaboration and networking, and improve human rights protection mechanisms through comprehensive capacity building and experience sharing.

    The expected outcome includes developing a better understanding of international dimensions of human rights; a deeper understanding of NHRC, India’s work in the field of human rights protection, and its best practices, which can be adopted by the other NHRIs; improved networking among NHRIs, fostering collaborations and partnerships at regional and international levels; and enhanced capability to contribute towards the protection and promotion of human rights.

    The participants will engage in lectures and interactive sessions by eminent persons and practitioners in the field, cultural immersion and field visits. The initiative is a part of NHRC’s ongoing outreach efforts to enhance understanding and appreciation of various aspects of human rights and help in building capacity among senior functionaries of NHRIs.

    *****

    NSK

    (Release ID: 2107554) Visitor Counter : 74

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK concludes presidency of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK concludes presidency of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance

    After a successful year as Chair of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, the UK hands over the presidency to Israel on 3 March 2025.

    The UK has concluded its presidency of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), which ran from March 2024 to February 2025.  The presidency’s theme, “In Plain Sight”, drew attention to the fact that the Holocaust did not happen in a dark corner.  This highlighted the nature of society that allowed the murder of 6 million Jewish men, women and children, and shone a spotlight on all those who had a part to play.

    Our presidency focused on safeguarding remembrance of the Holocaust and securing the narrative for the future. This included tackling Holocaust distortion, and exploring the role of artificial intelligence as a force for both good and bad in Holocaust education and distortion.

    During our presidency, we delivered our ‘My Hometown’ project, supporting young people across the IHRA membership in learning about their local Holocaust history.  Fifty six schools from across 15 countries took part.  A gallery of all the projects can be found on our implementing partner’s website.

    We also published the 80 Objects-80 Lives digital exhibition, delivered in partnership with the Association of Jewish Refugees. In the exhibition, Holocaust survivors shared personal stories connected to their possessions in a series of eighty short videos. 

    We were also pleased to work with the Association of Jewish Refugees to launch their new UK testimony portal. This brings together UK testimony on one platform for the first time.

    The UK hosted 2 plenary meetings, bringing together around 300 IHRA delegates in Glasgow in June and London in December, to discuss efforts to strengthen Holocaust remembrance, education and research. 

    We made progress in a range of areas, including the launch of the Archival Access Forum, to facilitate the sharing of best practice in accessing and preserving Holocaust-related archive materials. 

    We launched guidance on the implementation of the IHRA definition of antisemitism for sporting institutions. We also hosted a successful Roma conference attended by representatives of the Roma community from across Europe, and launched IHRA’s recommendations for Teaching and Learning about the Roma.

    Our presidency also explored the role of emerging technologies in Holocaust education and distortion. We co-hosted an event with the OSCE in Romania. This considered how artificial intelligence could be used as a force for good in Holocaust education and in identifying and tackling instances of antisemitism and Holocaust distortion online. It also explored its more negative uses in facilitating Holocaust distortion. We continued these discussions in the margins of the London plenary, during a follow up conference on the role of artificial intelligence

    Domestically, we published the outcome of a review establishing the facts around the number of prisoners who died on Alderney during the Nazi occupation. This review played an important role in bringing to an end conspiracies and misinformation surrounding this crucial period of history.

    Finally, we marked the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and the 25th anniversary of the Stockholm Declaration on Holocaust Remembrance. In February, we brought together IHRA delegates alongside key figures who have played a role in strengthening international action on Holocaust commemoration over the past 25 years. Together we reflected on our achievements and look ahead to the future of remembrance.

    The Holocaust will sadly soon move from our living memory into the history books, and we will no longer be able to hear survivors tell their stories first-hand. It is therefore essential that we continue to do all we can to safeguard Holocaust sites, encourage greater transparency of Holocaust-related archives, and promote testimony and the stories of Holocaust-related objects.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –