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Category: Middle East

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Rep. French Hill on President Trump’s Executive Order Lifting Sanctions on Syria

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman French Hill (AR-02)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman French Hill (AR-02) praised President Trump’s decision to revoke several executive orders related to Syria, effective July 1, 2025, calling it a step that will give a post-Assad Syria the opportunity to forge a new future based on peace and pluralism.

    Rep. Hill says, “I commend President Trump’s decision to provide sanctions relief to Syria. This move is a significant step forward and will remove barriers for a post-Assad government, allowing it to engage in activities that will enable Syria to secure the resources needed to rebuild, while ensuring that any ongoing actions or penalties from previous sanctions remain in place.

    “I’ve spent years in Congress fighting for the Syrian people, and the relatively positive developments in the first few months under the interim government give me some hope. For a free Syria to reintegrate into the international community, it must have the resources to rebuild its infrastructure, grow its economy, and establish a government that respects the rights of all Syrians. Lifting these executive sanctions provides an opportunity for this progress to occur.

    “However, significant challenges remain, including ongoing threats from extremist groups and the need to navigate regional tensions to establish effective governance and promote national reconciliation. Success is not guaranteed, and it is imperative for the United States to continue monitoring the situation to ensure the new government remains committed to reform, stability, and pluralism.

    “Yesterday’s executive order is a positive step forward. It offers the Syrian people a chance to move beyond the brutal and devastating war and the horrific suffering endured over decades at the hands of the Assad regime.”

    Background on Rep. French Hill’s Work on Syria

    Rep. French Hill has been deeply involved in shaping U.S. policy toward Syria, particularly in holding the Assad regime accountable for its war crimes and human rights abuses. The following are among his most significant contributions:

    1.     Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act: Co-sponsored by Rep. Hill and signed into law in 2019, this act imposes broad sanctions on individuals and entities supporting the Assad regime’s human rights violations.

    2.     Combating Captagon Trafficking: Rep. Hill has been a leading voice in addressing the illicit production and trafficking of Captagon, a drug that funded the Assad regime’s operations. He introduced two key pieces of legislation targeting this issue: the Illicit Captagon Trafficking Suppression Act, signed into law on April 24, 2024, imposing sanctions on Captagon traffickers, and the Countering Assad’s Proliferation, Trafficking, and Garnering of Narcotics (CAPTAGON) Act, incorporated into the FY 2023 NDAA, which requires a U.S. interagency strategy to disrupt Assad-linked narcotics trafficking.

    3.     Syria Caucus Leadership: Rep. Hill serves as co-chair of the ‘Friends of a Free, Stable, and Democratic Syria Caucus,’ a bipartisan congressional group that advocates for freedom, human rights, accountability, the rule of law, and secular democracy for the Syrian people, making him one of the leading voices on Syria policy in Congress.

    4.     Anti-normalization Legislation: In 2023, Rep. Hill co-sponsored legislation that would prohibit the U.S. government from recognizing or normalizing relations with any Syrian government led by Assad, expanding on the Caesar Act in response to efforts by Arab League countries to readmit Syria.

    5.     Historic Syria Visit: In August 2023, Rep. Hill was part of the first congressional delegation to visit Syria in six years, meeting with the teachers and students at the Wisdom House School for Syrian orphans and with the White Helmets.

    6.     Humanitarian Advocacy: Beyond legislation, Rep. Hill has worked to support the Syrian people and raise awareness of the ongoing atrocities. He also met with “Caesar,” the Syrian defector whose photographs documenting the regime’s violence and atrocities became a key part of the international body of evidence against Assad’s regime.


    Background on Executive Order: “Providing for the Revocation of Syria Sanctions”

    An executive order signed by President Trump on June 30, 2025, lifts comprehensive U.S. sanctions on Syria effective July 1, 2025, citing the “positive actions taken by the new Syrian government.” The order revokes multiple executive orders dating back to 1979, acknowledging that circumstances have been “transformed by developments over the past 6 months”

    The Executive Order can be found by clicking HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Regulator disqualifies Nottingham charity trustee over inflammatory sermon

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Regulator disqualifies Nottingham charity trustee over inflammatory sermon

    The Charity Commission has concluded its compliance case into Nottingham Islam Information Point following significant regulatory intervention – including issuing an Official Warning and imposing a 3-year disqualification.

    Nottingham Islam Information Point was set up to provide relief to those in need, including by providing a support network for victims of Islamophobic attacks. The charity also helps to address misconceptions about the religion of Islam.

    The charity regulator for England and Wales opened a compliance case in November 2023 following concerns raised over a sermon delivered on the charity’s premises by a trustee, Harun Abdur Rashid Holmes. The regulator reviewed the sermon and found that it contained language such as “the hour will not begin until the Muslims fight the Jews and the Muslims will kill them until a Jew hides behind a rock or a tree”. The sermon also included statements on politics which could be interpreted as encouraging people not to vote or to disengage from the democratic process, calling on attendees not to “busy yourselves with politics and voting”.

    The Commission recognises some of the content had been taken from a specific Hadith, a narration of historical events ascribed to the prophet Muhammad. However, the sermon was given without the appropriate context to its source material and as such was inflammatory and divisive. There was no consideration given to how appropriate it would be to deliver such a sermon just six days after the events in Israel of 7 October 2023.

    To the regulator, it showed Mr Holmes lacked the good judgement expected of a trustee. Mr Holmes accepted that with hindsight the Hadith was sensitive, and he did not give sufficient context to it.

    The sermon did not further the charity’s purposes, including to provide relief to those in need, and was not in the charity’s best interests. The regulator found that the sermon amounted to misconduct and/or mismanagement.

    The Commission also found Mr Holmes did not act in accordance with his trustee duties, despite the charity receiving previous guidance when he was the charity’s Chair. Failure to comply with regulatory advice amounts to misconduct and/or mismanagement.

    As a result, the regulator made an order to disqualify Mr Holmes, which took effect in July 2024. This order prohibits Mr Holmes from serving as a trustee or holding any senior management position in a charity in England and Wales for three years.  

    As part of its case, the Commission also issued the charity with a formal warning, as the whole trustee Board had a collective responsibility to have effective policies in place to manage the charity, including those related to speakers. The Official Warning set out actions to improve the charity’s governance which include:

    • ensuring all activity at the charity contributes to its purposes
    • creating, implementing and adhering to robust and suitable policies on topics including social media use and speakers
    • ensuring all current and future trustees understand their legal duties as set out in the regulator’s guidance

    The Commission has been monitoring the charity’s progress with these actions and, after recently receiving evidence of steps taken, has now concluded its case.

    Stephen Roake, Assistant Director of Investigations and Compliance at the Charity Commission, said:

    In times of conflict, people expect charities to bring people together, not to stoke division. In this case, we found due consideration had not been given to the words and rhetoric used. The sermon was inflammatory and divisive, and we acted robustly and disqualified the trustee who gave the sermon. We also issued the charity with a formal warning.

    Following our intervention, the charity’s remaining trustees have taken positive steps to improve their governance. This includes the introduction of a more robust events policy. All charities that host events and speakers should take note of this case and ensure they have sufficient due diligence in place.

    Notes to editors:

    • The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive. This ambition will help to create and sustain an environment where charities further build public trust and ultimately fulfil their essential role in enhancing lives and strengthening society. Find out more.
    • The Commission has produced guidance to help trustees protect their charity from harm or misuse. Chapter 5 of its toolkit sets out trustee roles and responsibilities around ensuring their charities are not used to promote extremist views or activity.
    • Mr Holmes was disqualified under section 181A of the Charities Act 2011.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The XIV International Music Festival “Silk Road” has started in Azerbaijan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Baku, July 5 /Xinhua/ — The 14th International Silk Road Music Festival has opened in the ancient Azerbaijani city of Sheki, becoming an important event in the country’s cultural life, AZERTAC news agency reported.

    The festival will last three days. It was organized by the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan, the Union of Composers and the Sheki Executive Authority. The program includes performances by musicians and ensembles from Azerbaijan, Turkey and China.

    The festival opened with a concert of ethnic groups. Representatives of ethnic minorities performed for the audience: Talysh, Avars, Lezgins, Molokans and Tats.–0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Egyptian President Reiterates Support for Political Settlement in Libya

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    CAIRO, July 5 (Xinhua) — Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi on Saturday reiterated the importance of reaching a comprehensive political settlement in Libya to hold long-delayed elections, according to a statement released by the Egyptian presidential office.

    A.-F. al-Sisi made the statement during a meeting with the speaker of the eastern Libyan House of Representatives, Aqeela Saleh, during which they discussed the latest developments in the country.

    The President reiterated Egypt’s support for Libya’s national institutions, stressing the importance of preserving the country’s sovereignty and unity. He also noted the need for all foreign forces to withdraw from Libya so that Libyan institutions can stabilize the country.

    A. Saleh, for his part, thanked Egypt for its support for Libya’s unity and institutions, calling it vital for restoring peace and moving towards elections.

    Libya has been in chaos since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The country remains divided between the UN-recognised Government of National Accord in Tripoli and an eastern administration backed by the House of Representatives and Khalifa Haftar’s Libyan National Army.

    UN-backed presidential elections scheduled for December 2021 have been postponed due to disagreements over electoral laws and eligibility of candidates, deepening the political crisis. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Foreign Secretary reiterates UK’s ongoing support to Lebanon

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    World news story

    Foreign Secretary reiterates UK’s ongoing support to Lebanon

    British Foreign Secretary David Lammy visited Lebanon and reiterated the UK’s ongoing support for Lebanon’s security, stability and future prosperity.

    British Foreign Secretary David Lammy with President Joseph Aoun

    As part of a regional visit, Foreign Secretary David Lammy visits Lebanon on Friday 4 July 2025. He reiterated the UK’s ongoing support for Lebanon’s security, stability and future prosperity. 

    The Foreign Secretary met with President General Joseph Aoun at the Presidential Palace. Discussions focused on the latest local and regional developments and UK-Lebanon bilateral relations.

    The Foreign Secretary spoke about the urgency of efforts to reach a lasting peace in Lebanon and the region. He stressed the importance of Lebanon and Israel implementing the ceasefire agreement in full, including the withdrawal of Israeli Forces and the deployment of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) throughout the South.

    He commended the long-standing and strong bilateral partnership between Lebanon and the UK including with the LAF, both in the South and on the border with Syria. Since 2009, the UK has spent over £115 million to support the LAF with infrastructure, vehicles, training and equipment and since 2013 supported the establishment of the Land Border Regiments (LBRs) on the border with Syria.

    The Foreign Secretary also reiterated the UK’s support for UNIFIL and the role they play for stability in South Lebanon, as mandated in UNSCR 1701.  He called for urgent implementation of essential economic reforms and transparent processes for justice and accountability. 

    British Ambassador Hamish Cowell said:

    I was pleased to welcome British Foreign Secretary David Lammy to Lebanon, following unprecedented regional tensions. 

    Efforts must continue to secure a lasting ceasefire in Lebanon and allow the full deployment of the Lebanese Army to the south of the country, as the sole legitimate defender of Lebanon. 

    Stability in the Middle East is in everyone’s interest. The full implementation of UNSCR 1701 is crucial to Lebanon and the region’s future security.

    Lebanon’s path to recovery is dependent on essential reforms, including those required to secure an IMF agreement to rebuild the economy and unlock international investment.  

    The UK remains a steadfast partner to Lebanon and its people.

    The Foreign Secretary also visited Syria as part of his regional trip. This is the first by a UK Minister in 14 years and renews the UK-Syria diplomatic relationship. The Foreign Secretary met President Al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Al-Shaibani to reiterate the importance of an inclusive and representative political transition in Syria and offer continued UK support to the Syrian people.

    Updates to this page

    Published 5 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 9 killed, 11 injured in minibus collision in northern Egypt

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    CAIRO, July 5 (Xinhua) — At least nine people were killed and 11 others injured on Saturday when two minibuses collided on a highway in Egypt’s northern Menoufia province, the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population said in a statement.

    The department reported that the victims were taken to hospitals in Menoufia for emergency medical care.

    According to Egyptian news site Yom7, a preliminary investigation has shown that speeding may have been the cause of the accident. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK re-establishes diplomatic relations with Syria in first Ministerial visit for 14 years

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK re-establishes diplomatic relations with Syria in first Ministerial visit for 14 years

    The Foreign Secretary has visited Syria to renew our diplomatic relationship, eight months on from the collapse of Assad’s regime.

    • Foreign Secretary’s visit to Syria marks first by a UK Minister in 14 years and renews the UK and Syria’s diplomatic relationship.
    • Commitment to support Syria as the new Government seeks to rebuild Syria’s economy, deliver an inclusive political transition and forge a path to justice for the victims of the Assad regime.
    • New UK funding to assist with removal of Assad era chemical weapons and provide urgent humanitarian assistance in Syria, to bolster UK and Middle East security, tackle irregular migration, and deliver on the Government’s Plan for Change.

    Eight months on from the collapse of the Assad regime, the UK has officially re-established diplomatic relations with the Syrian Government following the Foreign Secretary’s visit to Damascus today.

    As the first UK Minister to visit in 14 years, the Foreign Secretary emphasised that the UK will support the Syrian Government to deliver its commitments to build a more secure and prosperous future for Syrians, increasing security in the wider region and the UK.

    The Foreign Secretary met President Al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister al-Shaibani to reiterate the importance of an inclusive and representative political transition in Syria and offer continued UK support to the Syrian people.

    A stable Syria is in the UK’s interests. We want to ensure that Daesh’s territorial defeat endures, and they can never resurge, and we want to prevent vulnerable Syrians from being exploited by people smuggling gangs across Europe. Building closer diplomatic partnerships with Syria is critical to safeguard UK security, in line with the Government’s Plan for Change.

    Foreign Secretary, David Lammy said:

    As the first UK Minister to visit Syria since the fall of Assad’s brutal regime, I’ve seen first-hand the remarkable progress Syrians have made in rebuilding their lives and their country.

    After over a decade of conflict, there is renewed hope for the Syrian people. The UK is re-establishing diplomatic relations because it is in our interests to support the new government to deliver their commitment to build a stable, more secure and prosperous future for all Syrians.

    A stable Syria is in the UK’s interests, reducing the risk of irregular migration, ensuring the destruction of chemical weapons, tackling the threat of terrorism and delivering the Government’s Plan for Change.

    During his visit to Syria, the Foreign Secretary met Syrian Civil Defence volunteers (White Helmets) to learn more about the vital work they carry out across the country, including with the safe removal of unexploded ordnance and emergency lifesaving medical work.

    The fall of Assad presents an opportunity for the new Syrian government to fully declare and destroy Assad’s evil chemical weapons programme. As part of the visit, the UK has committed an additional £2 million this financial year to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to support their vital work addressing the horrific legacy of Assad’s chemical weapons in Syria. The UK contribution will support the OPCW’s operational requirements in Syria as they help the Syrian Government fulfil their commitments to eliminate Assad’s chemical weapons once and for all.

    Demonstrating the UK’s continued commitment to sustainable development and Syria’s recovery from conflict, the Foreign Secretary met women-led businesses in Syria, which have been supported by the UK’s livelihoods and economic recovery programme.

    UK support is set to continue, with the additional £94.5 million package announced today, which will provide urgent humanitarian aid to Syrians, support Syria’s longer-term recovery through education and livelihoods, and support countries hosting Syrian refugees in the region.

    The Foreign Secretary will travel on to Kuwait where strengthening regional security and boosting bilateral relations will be top of the agenda in meetings with His Highness the Crown Prince, His Highness the Prime Minister and His Excellency the Foreign Minister. The Foreign Secretary will advocate for UK businesses to have access to new opportunities to support Kuwaiti growing markets– further advancing business engagement between UK and Kuwait and the wider region.   

    The Foreign Secretary will also announce a new partnership with Kuwait to tackle the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. New funding will help provide nutrition support and restore clean drinking water supplies, as Sudan faces both famine and a devastating cholera outbreak. Support will also be made available to fund lifesaving work in Somalia where conflict and the climate crisis are driving pressing humanitarian needs. 

    ENDS

    Notes to Editors:

    • The UK has provided £4.5bn of assistance to Syria and countries in the region since 2011.
    • Over the past two years the UK has provided more than £5m to the White Helmets in support of their lifesaving emergency medical, firefighting and search rescue services. This includes £2.25m this financial year to continue this work and ensure a smooth transition of their activities to the Government.
    • The UK has already provided £837,300 to the OPCW Syria Missions since the fall of Assad to support their immediate work in ensuring the safe and rapid destruction of Syria’s chemical weapons.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 5 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Egypt: President El-Sisi Meets the Speaker of Libya’s House of Representatives

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received the Speaker of Libya’s House of Representatives, Counselor Aguila Saleh. The meeting was attended by Political Advisor to the Speaker of Libya’s House of Representatives, Hamid Al-Safi, and Director of the General Intelligence Service, Major General Hassan Rashad.

    Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said that the meeting reviewed the latest developments on the Libyan scene. President El-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s firm position in support of Libya and its national institutions, emphasizing the importance of preserving Libya’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    The President also stressed the necessity for unifying efforts to reach a comprehensive political settlement to the crisis. This is in order to allow for presidential and parliamentary elections to be held concurrently as soon as possible, in a way that fulfills the aspirations of the Libyan people for stability, security, and a dignified life.

    President El-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s commitment to continuing its efforts and coordination with all Libyan brothers and concerned international parties. This stems from Egypt’s belief in the necessity of stability in the brotherly state of Libya, and that Libya’s political and security stability is an integral part of Egypt’s own stability.

    The President also emphasized the importance of the departure of all foreign forces from Libya, which will contribute to promoting security, enabling Libyan institutions to play their role in consolidating stability across all Libyan territories.

    The President expressed Egypt’s interest in the reconstruction Libya and in participating in this process, as well as transferring Egyptian development expertise to support the development process.

    The Speaker of the Libyan House of Representatives expressed his deep appreciation for the historical and fraternal relations between Egypt and Libya, and for the role of President El-Sisi and Egyptian institutions in supporting Libya’s unity and the cohesion of its national institutions. He affirmed that this support represents a fundamental pillar for restoring security and stability and for advancing the transitional phase leading to the implementation of the upcoming electoral entitlements.

    – on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi: The Global Statesman of Our Times

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Since the Second World War, almost eight decades ago, no leader had captivated the global imagination until the late 2010s.

    The majority of the Cold War years were lost to the political turmoil that plagued the nations in the West. In the Soviet Union, the leaders were infamous for weakening the once grand empire. Even the American Presidents could not escape the curse of time, and eventually, the world entered the 20th century with crises that hinted at imminent conflicts.

    Back home in India, the political leadership was largely contained within one party, and further, within one family.

    Not choosing to align with a bloc, India went for the non-aligned movement, and in hindsight, we were everywhere, and yet, nowhere. When Chief Minister Narendra Modi was elevated to the higher office in Delhi in 2014, a nation of more than 120 Crore people was not only looking at a new leadership framework to guide the nation, but also a new perspective to take India’s message to the world.

    In Narendra Modi, the country saw the resolve of a national leader and the vision of a global statesman.

    The last eleven years have been of global turmoil. The 2010s witnessed the incapacity of several Western nations, including the United States of America, to shake off the economic horrors of the Great Recession of 2008.

    Just when the nations were getting their economic trajectory back on track, the pandemic, the most gruesome in a century, hit the world in 2020. This was followed by the global supply chain crisis in 2020-21, the Russia-Ukraine War in 2022, and the Middle East tensions in 2023. In the decade PM Modi has governed India, the world has been in a constant state of chaos.

    In this constant state of chaos, the political leadership across countries has been impacted as well. America saw the exit of a Democratic President in 2016, only to witness the return of another leader from the same party in 2020.

    Across Europe, governments found their mandates dented post-pandemic, if not snatched altogether. Even China, which began the 2010s with geopolitical heft, was marred in its economic challenges by early 2020s, and while the leadership remains, resistance against the Communist Party is attaining a point of inevitability.

    It is in this decade PM Modi cemented his position globally. While the combination of welfare programs, strong economic growth, prudent fiscal management, infrastructure push, and rapid digitalisation ushered the nation ahead under his leadership, the last decade was also of diplomacy with a difference.

    India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was no longer a mute spectator nor a submissive commentator. India’s assertion was visible in the early months of the Narendra Modi Government. Diplomacy had several facets, from rescue operations to humanitarian aids, from enhancing economic relations to collaborating on modern technologies.

    In 2022, PM Modi’s stellar move to balance national economic interests with geopolitical intricacies resulted in India increasing its share of oil imports from Russia. Eventually, even the Europeans had to follow India’s cue. Post-2023 and the October attack on Israel, India’s global stance on the Middle East was consistent with the sensitivities of the region.

    PM Modi’s diplomatic approach has been about prioritising the relationship before the returns, and that is what explains the constant push in African countries, and even some South American countries. Many countries that were earlier ignored under the previous governments are now active partners.

    Interestingly, the Modi Doctrine has also been about evolving with time. Eleven years is a long time, and countries do diverge on several issues. Case in question is Turkey. While the nation responded to India’s humanitarian aid with drones to Pakistan, PM Modi was quick to send them a direct reminder during his visit to Cyprus.

    Modi’s diplomacy has several shades, and several countries have embraced it as well, which explains the number of honours for the Prime Minister. Earlier today, PM Modi has been conferred with Ghana’s highest state honor, the Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, marking a significant milestone in his global recognition. This award is part of an impressive collection of 24 international honors celebrated by 140 crore Indians, symbolizing India’s relentless rise on the world stage.

    The accolades span a wide range of nations, including Cyprus’s Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III, Sri Lanka’s Mitra Vibhushana, Mauritius’ Grand Commander of the Order of the Star & Key of the Indian Ocean, Kuwait’s Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer, Guyana’s Order of Excellence, Barbados’ Order of Freedom, Nigeria’s Grand Commander of the Order, and Dominica’s Dominica Award of Honour.

    Additional distinctions come from Russia’s Order of St. Andrew the Apostle, Greece’s Grand Cross of the Order of Honour, France’s Grand Cross of the Legion, Egypt’s Order of the Nile, Republic of Palau’s Ebakl Award, Papua New Guinea’s Order of Logohu, Fiji’s Companion of the Order of Fiji, and Bhutan’s Order of the Druk Gyalpo.

    The list of honors continues with the US Government’s Legion of Merit, Bahrain’s King Hamad Order of the Renaissance, Maldives’ Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddin, United Arab Emirates’ Order of Zayed Award, Palestine’s Grand Collar of the State of Palestine Award, Afghanistan’s State Order of Ghazi Amir Amanullah Khan, and Saudi Arabia’s Order of King Abdulaziz.

    PM Narendra Modi will be conferred with Trinidad and Tobago’s highest civilian honour, The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, his 25th sovereign honour.

    PM Modi is a global statesman of our times. Since Franklin D. Roosevelt, no leader has been so instrumental to a world that is rapidly changing. Eleven years in office, and only half done in all probability, the Prime Minister has a lot to offer to the world in terms of global leadership. He’s India’s strongest voice, sincerest messenger, and the most stupendous testament to a nation that is rediscovering its civilizational place in the world.

    (Tushar Gupta is a Delhi-based journalist and a political commentator)

  • MIL-OSI Africa: United Arab Emirates (UAE) leaders congratulate President of Cabo Verde on Independence Day

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a message of congratulations to President José Maria Neves of the Republic of Cabo Verde on the occasion of his country’s Independence Day.

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, sent similar messages to President Neves and Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva on the occasion.

    – on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Greenpeace chief recalls New Zealand’s nuclear free exploits, seeks ‘peace’ voice for Gaza

    Asia Pacific Report

    Greenpeace Aotearoa executive director Russel Norman today recalled New Zealand’s heyday as a Pacific nuclear free champion in the 1980s, and challenged the country to again become a leading voice for “peace and justice”, this time for the Palestinian people.

    He told the weekly Palestinian solidarity rally in Auckland’s central Te Komititanga Square that it was time for New Zealand to take action and recognise the state of Palestine and impose sanctions on Israel over its Gaza atrocities.

    “From 1946 to 1996, over 300 nuclear weapons were exploded across the Pacific and consistently the New Zealand government spoke out against it,” he said.

    “It took cases to the International Court of Justice, supported by Australia and Fiji, against the nuclear testing across the Pacific.

    “Aotearoa New Zealand was a voice for peace, it was a voice for justice, and when the French government bombed the Greenpeace ship Rainbow Warrior here and killed Fernando Pereira, it spoke out and took action against France.”

    He said New Zealand could return to that global leadership as a small and peaceful country.

    New Zealand will this week be commemorating the 40th anniversary of the bombing of the Rainbow Warrior by French secret agents on 10 July 1985 and the killing of Greenpeace photographer Fernando Pereira.

    Dawn vigil on Greenpeace III
    Greenpeace plans a dawn vigil on board their current flagship Rainbow Warrior III at Halsey Wharf.

    He spoke about the Gaza war crimes, saying it was time for New Zealand to take serious action to help end this 20 months of settler colonial genocide.

    “There are millions of people [around the world] who are trying to end this colonial occupation of Palestinian land,” Norman said.

    “And millions of people who are trying to stop people simply standing to get food who are hungry who are being shelled and killed by the Israeli military simply for the ‘crime’ of being born in the land that Israel wants to occupy.”

    Rocket Lab . . . a target for protests this week against the Gaza genocide. Image: David Robie/APR

    Norman’s message echoed an open letter that he wrote to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters earlier this week criticising the government for its “ongoing failure … to impose meaningful sanctions on Israel”.

    He cited the recent UN Human Rights Office report that said the killing of hundreds of Palestinians by the Israeli military while trying to fetch food from the controversial new “Gaza Humanitarian Foundation” aid hubs was a ‘likely war crime”.

    “Israel’s ongoing blockade of aid to Gaza has placed over 2 million people on the precipice of famine. Malnutrition and starvation are rife,” he said.

    Israel ‘weaponising aid’
    “Israel is weaponising aid, using starvation as a tool of genocide and is now shooting at civilians trying to access the scraps of aid that are available.”

    He said this was “catastrophic”, quoting Luxon’s own words, and the human suffering was “unacceptable”.

    Labour MP for Te Atatu and disarmament spokesperson Phil Twyford also spoke at the rally and march today, saying the Labour Party was calling for sanctions and accountability.

    He condemned the failure to hold “the people who have been enabling the genocide in Gaza”.

    “It’s been going on for too long. Not just the last [20 months], but actually the last 77 years.

    “And it is time the Western world snapped out of the spell that the Zionists have had on the Western imagination — at least on the political classes, government MPs, the policy makers in Western countries, who for so long have enabled, have stayed quiet in the face of the US who have armed and funded the genocide”

    For the Palestinian solidarity movement in New Zealand it has been a big week with four politicians — including Prime Minister Luxon — and two business leaders, the chief executives of Rocket Lab and Rakon, who have been referred by the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for investigation over allegations of complicity with the Israeli war crimes.

    This unprecedented legal development has been largely ignored by the mainstream media.

    On Friday, protesters picketed a Rocket Lab manufacturing site in Warkworth, the head office in Mount Wellington and the Māhia peninsula where satellites are launched.

    Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, leading international scholars and the UN Special Committee to investigate Israel’s practices have all condemned Israel’s actions as genocide.

    Palestinian solidarity protesters in Auckland’s Queen Street march today. Image: David Robie/APR

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Greenpeace chief recalls New Zealand’s nuclear free exploits, seeks ‘peace’ voice for Gaza

    Asia Pacific Report

    Greenpeace Aotearoa executive director Russel Norman today recalled New Zealand’s heyday as a Pacific nuclear free champion in the 1980s, and challenged the country to again become a leading voice for “peace and justice”, this time for the Palestinian people.

    He told the weekly Palestinian solidarity rally in Auckland’s central Te Komititanga Square that it was time for New Zealand to take action and recognise the state of Palestine and impose sanctions on Israel over its Gaza atrocities.

    “From 1946 to 1996, over 300 nuclear weapons were exploded across the Pacific and consistently the New Zealand government spoke out against it,” he said.

    “It took cases to the International Court of Justice, supported by Australia and Fiji, against the nuclear testing across the Pacific.

    “Aotearoa New Zealand was a voice for peace, it was a voice for justice, and when the French government bombed the Greenpeace ship Rainbow Warrior here and killed Fernando Pereira, it spoke out and took action against France.”

    He said New Zealand could return to that global leadership as a small and peaceful country.

    New Zealand will this week be commemorating the 40th anniversary of the bombing of the Rainbow Warrior by French secret agents on 10 July 1985 and the killing of Greenpeace photographer Fernando Pereira.

    Dawn vigil on Greenpeace III
    Greenpeace plans a dawn vigil on board their current flagship Rainbow Warrior III at Halsey Wharf.

    He spoke about the Gaza war crimes, saying it was time for New Zealand to take serious action to help end this 20 months of settler colonial genocide.

    “There are millions of people [around the world] who are trying to end this colonial occupation of Palestinian land,” Norman said.

    “And millions of people who are trying to stop people simply standing to get food who are hungry who are being shelled and killed by the Israeli military simply for the ‘crime’ of being born in the land that Israel wants to occupy.”

    Rocket Lab . . . a target for protests this week against the Gaza genocide. Image: David Robie/APR

    Norman’s message echoed an open letter that he wrote to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters earlier this week criticising the government for its “ongoing failure … to impose meaningful sanctions on Israel”.

    He cited the recent UN Human Rights Office report that said the killing of hundreds of Palestinians by the Israeli military while trying to fetch food from the controversial new “Gaza Humanitarian Foundation” aid hubs was a ‘likely war crime”.

    “Israel’s ongoing blockade of aid to Gaza has placed over 2 million people on the precipice of famine. Malnutrition and starvation are rife,” he said.

    Israel ‘weaponising aid’
    “Israel is weaponising aid, using starvation as a tool of genocide and is now shooting at civilians trying to access the scraps of aid that are available.”

    He said this was “catastrophic”, quoting Luxon’s own words, and the human suffering was “unacceptable”.

    Labour MP for Te Atatu and disarmament spokesperson Phil Twyford also spoke at the rally and march today, saying the Labour Party was calling for sanctions and accountability.

    He condemned the failure to hold “the people who have been enabling the genocide in Gaza”.

    “It’s been going on for too long. Not just the last [20 months], but actually the last 77 years.

    “And it is time the Western world snapped out of the spell that the Zionists have had on the Western imagination — at least on the political classes, government MPs, the policy makers in Western countries, who for so long have enabled, have stayed quiet in the face of the US who have armed and funded the genocide”

    For the Palestinian solidarity movement in New Zealand it has been a big week with four politicians — including Prime Minister Luxon — and two business leaders, the chief executives of Rocket Lab and Rakon, who have been referred by the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for investigation over allegations of complicity with the Israeli war crimes.

    This unprecedented legal development has been largely ignored by the mainstream media.

    On Friday, protesters picketed a Rocket Lab manufacturing site in Warkworth, the head office in Mount Wellington and the Māhia peninsula where satellites are launched.

    Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, leading international scholars and the UN Special Committee to investigate Israel’s practices have all condemned Israel’s actions as genocide.

    Palestinian solidarity protesters in Auckland’s Queen Street march today. Image: David Robie/APR

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Video: What’s Next for China’s Economy & 5 Exciting Technologies of 2025 | WEF | Top Stories of the Week

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    This week’s top stories of the week include:

    0:15 What’s next for China’s Economy – As AI surges and global trade dynamics shift, how can China balance breakthrough tech with inclusive economic growth? Three experts offer insights on trade, technology and jobs in China’s evolving landscape.

    3:56 Can AI really help us? – AI shouldn’t just be about unicorns and breakthroughs. It should work for everyone. Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong says the goal isn’t just chasing AGI – it’s making sure every citizen and company can benefit from AI.

    7:27 Energy, climate & national security – Clean energy investment is a bright spot amid downbeat forecasts for global growth, says Egyptian minister Rania Al-Mashat. It’s important for organizations to be open about climate impacts they’re already facing, says sustainability expert Lindsay Hooper.

    11:55 5 exciting technologies of 2025 – From digital trust to clean energy, 2025 is seeing breakthrough innovations with wide-ranging impact. Here are five of the most promising technologies this year.

    ____________________________________________

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/ 
    Twitter ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #WorldEconomicForum

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: What’s Next for China’s Economy & 5 Exciting Technologies of 2025 | WEF | Top Stories of the Week

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    This week’s top stories of the week include:

    0:15 What’s next for China’s Economy – As AI surges and global trade dynamics shift, how can China balance breakthrough tech with inclusive economic growth? Three experts offer insights on trade, technology and jobs in China’s evolving landscape.

    3:56 Can AI really help us? – AI shouldn’t just be about unicorns and breakthroughs. It should work for everyone. Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong says the goal isn’t just chasing AGI – it’s making sure every citizen and company can benefit from AI.

    7:27 Energy, climate & national security – Clean energy investment is a bright spot amid downbeat forecasts for global growth, says Egyptian minister Rania Al-Mashat. It’s important for organizations to be open about climate impacts they’re already facing, says sustainability expert Lindsay Hooper.

    11:55 5 exciting technologies of 2025 – From digital trust to clean energy, 2025 is seeing breakthrough innovations with wide-ranging impact. Here are five of the most promising technologies this year.

    ____________________________________________

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/ 
    Twitter ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #WorldEconomicForum

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar Affirms Keenness to Enhance Cooperation with Office of High Commissioner for Human Rights

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Geneva, July 4

    The State of Qatar has affirmed keenness to enhance its cooperation with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and support it in fulfilling its mandate with regard to providing technical assistance and capacity building.

    This came in the State of Qatar’s statement delivered by Second Secretary at the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Office in Geneva Abdulaziz Al Mansouri, during his participation in the annual panel discussion on technical cooperation and capacity building during the 59th Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, entitled “Technical assistance and capacity building – item 10.”

    Al Mansouri highlighted the State of Qatar’s keenness to contribute to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to implement several programs, including the work of the United Nations Training and Documentation Centre in Doha.

    He emphasized the importance of giving equal attention to all human rights, political, civil, economic, social, cultural, and the right to development, and treating them equally, within the framework of objective dialogue and positive, constructive cooperation.

    He highlighted the importance of basing technical support and capacity building on countries’ priorities and needs, taking into account their national and regional specificities.

    He considered the opening of the United Nations House in Doha, which houses a number of UN offices and agencies, an important step in strengthening multilateral international cooperation through the implementation of programs focused on technical cooperation and capacity building in various fields.

    Abdulaziz Al Mansouri highlighted the importance of technical cooperation and capacity building in assisting countries and relevant national mechanisms, particularly national human rights institutions, to support their efforts and enhance their capabilities to carry out their mandates in promoting and protecting human rights.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Abuse of military force will increase conflicts – Chinese FM

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    PARIS, July 5 (Xinhua) — War is not a solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, and preemptive strikes obviously have no legitimacy, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and a member of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said at a joint press conference with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Friday, stressing that the abuse of military force will only lead to further conflicts and hatred.

    Asked about the situation in the Middle East, Wang Yi noted that the Iranian nuclear issue could serve as an example of resolving international disputes through dialogue and negotiations, but now it is sliding into a new round of the Middle East crisis. China is watching what is happening with regret, the minister said, adding that the lessons of these events should be carefully understood.

    China’s position on the Iranian nuclear issue is clear and consistent, Wang Yi said. China attaches great importance to the repeated public commitments of Iran’s top leader to renounce developing nuclear weapons, he added. At the same time, China respects Iran’s right to peaceful use of nuclear energy as a party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, the Foreign Minister emphasized.

    On this basis, relevant parties can speed up negotiations on a new international agreement to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue and fully place Iran’s nuclear activities under the strict control and protection of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Wang said, saying the road to peace lies ahead and history will test the sincerity of all parties.

    The recent military conflicts between Israel and Iran should not be repeated, the minister said, adding that the United States had set a negative precedent by openly firing on the nuclear facilities of a sovereign state.

    Wang Yi warned that if such actions lead to a nuclear catastrophe, the entire world would bear the consequences.

    The thesis of “peace through strength” is based on the logic of the politics of force, the minister said, calling for consideration of what will happen to rules and justice if only force dictates what is good and what is evil.

    Power cannot bring true peace. On the contrary, it can open Pandora’s box, Wang Yi added, asking how less powerful countries, especially small and medium ones, should survive.

    A genuine resolution to the situation with Iran’s nuclear program cannot bypass the key element of the Middle East problem, namely the Palestinian issue, the Foreign Minister said, adding that the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza must not continue any longer.

    The Palestinian issue cannot be put on the back burner, the legitimate aspirations of the Arab people should be realized as soon as possible, and the fair voice of the entire Islamic world should be heard, Wang Yi said.

    A two-state solution remains the only realistic way to break the cycle of chaos in the Middle East, and the international community must take more concrete and effective measures to advance it, he said.

    China and France, as permanent members of the UN Security Council, should uphold justice, shoulder responsibility, support the resolution of conflicts through dialogue and negotiations, oppose any double standards, and determine their positions and policies based on their understanding of what is right and what is wrong in a given situation, Wang Yi stressed.

    The UN and its Security Council should play their due role in consolidating peace, the foreign minister said, adding that China is ready to work with France to make unremitting efforts to achieve this goal. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP delivers food inside Gaza amid restrictions and growing insecurity

    Source: World Food Programme

    GAZA, Palestine – The UN World Food Programme (WFP) continues to deliver life-saving food assistance inside Gaza despite deteriorating security, limited access, and growing desperation of communities in need of food assistance. A recent WFP assessment shows nearly one person in three is not eating for days, placing more people at risk of starvation. More than 700,000 people have been forced to relocate since March 18 as an estimated 85 percent of Gaza is now considered an active militarized zone.

    Here are the latest updates on food insecurity and WFP operations in Gaza, including quotes from WFP Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Carl Skau, who is currently in Palestine:

    WFP Operations inside Gaza

    •    Since 21 May, when border crossings re-opened to limited amounts of aid, WFP teams have been able to dispatch dozens of aid convoys with more than 1,200 trucks carrying 18,247 metric tons (MT) of food aid inside Gaza. Despite these efforts, the food delivered to date is still a tiny fraction of what a population of over two million people need to survive.
    •    The breakdown of the food aid brought into Gaza includes (as of 03 July):
    o    12,275 MT of wheat flour for bread
    o    5,828 MT of ready to eat rations
    o    113 MT of emergency nutritional supplies
    o    30 MT of yeast for baking
    •    While most trucks carrying food assistance into Gaza have been intercepted by hungry civilian communities, WFP has been able to conduct some direct distributions. These include:
    o    Food aid distributed directly to 24,649 people (5,357 households).
    o    Nutrition prevention assistance to 102,544 children under five and pregnant and breastfeeding women across 92 active distribution sites.
    o    Nutritional supplements to 11,125 people.
    o    In June, 250,000 meals were also provided through 72 community kitchens with the help of food security partners.
    •    Israeli authorities have provided written assurances that operating conditions inside Gaza will improve, and that more trucks will be able to carry food aid into Gaza.
    •    The assurances also include the use of more routes and border crossing points with faster clearances, dependable communications, and without armed forces near convoys. 
    •    In agreement with Israeli authorities, WFP’s target is to bring 2,000 MT of food aid into Gaza every day (1,000 MT to the north, 1,000 MT to the south).
    •    WFP stands ready to scale up food assistance into Gaza if a ceasefire comes into effect. We have experienced teams on the ground, and proven systems in place to respond at scale.
    •    During the recent ceasefire, WFP facilitated nearly 40 percent of all humanitarian aid that entered Gaza, including 8,000 trucks of food, which helped push back the tide of hunger. The agency stands ready to do this again.
    •    WFP has over 140,000 metric tons of food in or on its way to the region – enough to feed the entire population of 2.1 million people for two months.

    Food Needs Inside Gaza
    •    Inside Gaza, the fear of starvation and desperate need for food remains high.
    •    A recent WFP assessment found nearly one person in three is not eating for days at a time.
    •    Findings from the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report, show a high risk that famine will occur as conflict persists and humanitarian agencies are unable to provide essential aid. 
    •    Some 470,000 people are expected to face Catastrophic hunger (IPC Phase 5) between May and September of this year.
    •    Malnutrition is surging and some 90,000 children and women urgently need treatment.
    •    Food aid is the only real way for people to eat:
    o    Flour for bread is 3,000 times more expensive than before the war – 23 euros per kilo of flour. And cooking fuel is simply nowhere to be found.

    Requirements to Scale Operations
    •    WFP stands ready to scale up and deliver life-saving assistance directly to the most vulnerable families in need. For this, WFP urgently calls for:
    •    At least 100 aid trucks per day to be allowed through northern, central and southern border points.
    •    Faster loading and dispatching of trucks from crossing points into Gaza. 
    •    No armed presence near convoy routes or civilian aid distribution points.
    •    Uninterrupted connectivity to allow humanitarian organizations to coordinate effectively.
    •    A sustained ceasefire that creates the necessary conditions for safe, scaled, and impactful humanitarian aid.
     

    Note to editor

    WFP Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Carl Skau, visited Gaza City on 1-2 July, talking to families there and assessing the humanitarian situation. The following quotes may be attributed to him:
    •    “This is my fourth visit to Gaza since the start of the conflict. The situation is the worst I’ve ever seen. It’s hard to find words to describe the level of desperation I have witnessed. People are dying just trying to get food. Our kitchens are empty; they are now serving hot water with a bit of pasta floating in it. A mother told me she had gone to a kitchen hoping to find a hot meal and fainted there. There was nothing to eat and she went home without anything for her children. A father I met had lost 25 kgs in the past two months. People are starving, while we have food just across the border.”

    •    “Our WFP teams in Gaza are doing heroic work under conditions that are simply impossible. They are frequently caught in cross-fire, they are stuck in steaming hot cars for 24 hours straight, escorting food convoys through combat zones. We don’t have enough fuel for our vehicles, or spare parts for our trucks or cars, or basic equipment to communicate. And our national staff are not just aid workers—they live here, they face the same dangers, the same hunger as the rest of the population. We can’t continue in these conditions.”

    •    “A ceasefire is urgently needed. We stand ready to deliver – we have the food, the capacity and the systems to assist the entire population in Gaza. During the previous ceasefire, we showed what was possible: delivering over 8,000 trucks of food in only 42 days. We can do it again, but we need all routes and entry points to open, and we need safety and order to be able to reach most vulnerable. The ceasefire must also be the first step toward lasting peace.”

    #                #            #

    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

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update on policing in London following proscription of Palestine Action

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Palestine Action has now been proscribed by the UK Government and expressing support for them is a criminal offence in the UK.

    There are a number of events taking place in London this weekend and anyone attending should be aware that officers policing these will act where criminal offences, including those related to support of proscribed groups or organisations, are committed.

    Under the Terrorism Act 2000 (TACT), the Home Secretary may proscribe an organisation if they believe it is concerned in terrorism and it is proportionate to do so.

    Proscription makes it a criminal offence to invite or express support for a proscribed organisation through chanting, wearing clothing or display articles such as flags, signs or logos.

    You can read more about proscribed groups or organisations on the UK Government website.

    It is a criminal offence to:

    • belong, or profess to belong, to a proscribed organisation in the UK or overseas (Section 11 TACT)
    • invite support for a proscribed organisation (Section 12(1A) TACT)
    • express an opinion or belief that is supportive of a proscribed organisation (Section 12(1A) TACT)
    • arrange, manage or assist in arranging or managing a meeting in the knowledge that the meeting is to support or further the activities of a proscribed organisation, or is to be addressed by a person who belongs or professes to (Section 12(2) TACT)
    • wear clothing or carry or display articles in public in such a way or in such circumstances as to arouse reasonable suspicion that the individual is a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation (Section 13 TACT)
    • publish an image of an item of clothing or other article, such as a flag or logo, in the same circumstances (Section 13(1A) TACT)

    If you have any concerns during an event speak to a police officer or event steward.

    If you see material supporting terrorism online report it – visit www.gov.uk/ACT

    You can also report suspicious activity by contacting the police in confidence on 0800 789 321.

    In an emergency, or if you need urgent police assistance, you should always dial 999.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update on policing in London following proscription of Palestine Action

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Palestine Action has now been proscribed by the UK Government and expressing support for them is a criminal offence in the UK.

    There are a number of events taking place in London this weekend and anyone attending should be aware that officers policing these will act where criminal offences, including those related to support of proscribed groups or organisations, are committed.

    Under the Terrorism Act 2000 (TACT), the Home Secretary may proscribe an organisation if they believe it is concerned in terrorism and it is proportionate to do so.

    Proscription makes it a criminal offence to invite or express support for a proscribed organisation through chanting, wearing clothing or display articles such as flags, signs or logos.

    You can read more about proscribed groups or organisations on the UK Government website.

    It is a criminal offence to:

    • belong, or profess to belong, to a proscribed organisation in the UK or overseas (Section 11 TACT)
    • invite support for a proscribed organisation (Section 12(1A) TACT)
    • express an opinion or belief that is supportive of a proscribed organisation (Section 12(1A) TACT)
    • arrange, manage or assist in arranging or managing a meeting in the knowledge that the meeting is to support or further the activities of a proscribed organisation, or is to be addressed by a person who belongs or professes to (Section 12(2) TACT)
    • wear clothing or carry or display articles in public in such a way or in such circumstances as to arouse reasonable suspicion that the individual is a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation (Section 13 TACT)
    • publish an image of an item of clothing or other article, such as a flag or logo, in the same circumstances (Section 13(1A) TACT)

    If you have any concerns during an event speak to a police officer or event steward.

    If you see material supporting terrorism online report it – visit www.gov.uk/ACT

    You can also report suspicious activity by contacting the police in confidence on 0800 789 321.

    In an emergency, or if you need urgent police assistance, you should always dial 999.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Rio de Janeiro gears up for BRICS Summit

    Source: Government of South Africa

    By Gabi Khumalo

    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – All eyes are on Rio de Janeiro, Brazil as the city prepares to welcome Heads of State and delegations from across the world for the 17th BRICS Summit.

    The Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) nations will converge in the metro for high-level engagements at the Summit taking place on 6 and 7 July 2025.

    Originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, BRICS has since expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. The new members were invited to join during the Johannesburg BRICS Summit, held in South Africa, in August 2023.

    BRICS brings together major emerging economies, collectively representing around 49.5% of the global population, around 40% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and around 26% of global trade.

    In preparing for the upcoming event, Rio has heightened security measures. On Friday afternoon, military personnel were deployed at strategic venues and sites, including hotels and museums.

    Trucks delivering furniture and vehicles transporting international delegates were also seen entering and exiting the summit venue.

    South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to arrive in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday, while Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to participate virtually.

    Representing the United Arab Emirates (UAE), His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, will lead the UAE delegation on behalf of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

    Brazil assumed the BRICS Chairship on 1 January 2025 with the theme: “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for more Inclusive and Sustainable Governance”.

    Brazil’s Presidency will focus on two priorities, including Global South Cooperation and the BRICS Partnerships for Social, and Economic and Environmental Development.

    The flagship priorities of the Brazilian Chairship include global health cooperation; trade, investment, and finance; climate change; Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance; promoting global reform of the multilateral peace system and security architecture; and institutional development.

    The key objectives of BRICS include strengthening economic, political, and social cooperation among its members, as well as increasing the influence of Global South countries in international governance.

    Among its ambitions are reforms to global institutions such as the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, and the World Trade Organisation (WTO), with a focus on improving legitimacy, equity, and operational efficiency.

    The group also seeks to improve the legitimacy, equity in participation, and efficiency of global institutions, including the United Nations, International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, and the World Trade Organisation (WTO). – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese FM calls on China, France to uphold multilateralism and free trade rules

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    PARIS, July 5 (Xinhua) — China and France should uphold multilateralism and defend free trade rules in the face of unilateral bullying that undermines the international order, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said here on Friday during talks with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.

    He noted that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China and France have maintained high-level exchanges, strengthened strategic coordination, and deepened mutual understanding and trust.

    Beijing and Paris successfully held meetings of the China-France high-level people-to-people exchange mechanism and called for using both civilizations to promote mutual learning and remove artificial barriers, Wang said.

    This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the UN, the minister noted. Over the past 80 years, China and France have made the right strategic choices at key historical moments, and have jointly influenced and shaped global development, demonstrating the strategic and forward-looking nature of interstate relations, he added.

    In the face of the negative impact of unilateral bullying on the international order, China and France, as permanent members of the UN Security Council and large independent countries, should shoulder the mission of the times, uphold the practice of multilateralism, defend the rules of free trade, and work together to shoulder the responsibility for world peace, contribute to global development and promote the progress of mankind, Wang Yi said.

    He also expressed confidence that the French side will continue to adhere to the one-China principle and protect the political foundation of bilateral relations.

    Wang Yi called on the two sides to continue to deepen cooperation in traditional key areas such as nuclear energy, aviation and astronautics, and expand cooperation in new areas such as artificial intelligence, green energy, biotechnology and the silver economy.

    According to him, China encourages its competitive companies to invest in the French economy and hopes that the French side will provide them with a fair, transparent, non-discriminatory and predictable business environment.

    In turn, Jean-Néon Barrot said that in today’s complex international situation, Franco-Chinese and European-Chinese relations should provide the world with more energy of stability and rationality. Paris and Beijing maintain close high-level exchanges, have achieved positive results in practical cooperation and humanitarian exchanges, the head of the Foreign Ministry added.

    According to him, both France and China adhere to multilateralism. Paris hopes to strengthen ties and cooperation with Beijing to jointly solve global problems, the minister emphasized.

    The French government has a one-China policy and this position remains unchanged, said Jean-Nicolas Barrot. France attaches great importance to the partnership between the EU and China and hopes to take advantage of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the EU and China as an opportunity to deepen cooperation, he added.

    The parties also exchanged views on the Ukrainian crisis and the Iranian nuclear issue. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Number of internally displaced breaks new record with no let-up in conflicts, disasters

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    “These figures are a clear warning: without bold and coordinated action, the number of people displaced within their own countries will continue to grow rapidly,” said Amy Pope, Director General of the International Organization for Migration.

    The recent rise in conflicts worldwide – particularly in Sudan, the Republic of the Congo, Lebanon, Ukraine and Palestine has pushed millions more into displacement, adding to the tens of millions who already live in protracted displacement in countries such as Afghanistan, Colombia, Syria and Yemen. 

    Disasters surging

    The number of displaced by disasters has risen massively, climbing from 26.8 million last year to 45.8 million. “The number of disaster displacements in 2024 was nearly double the annual average of the past decade,” said a new report issued by the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC).

    Almost 30 countries and territories have reported unprecedented disaster displacement – with cyclones accounting for more than one in two people forced from their homes. The United States alone makes up about one in four of those displaced globally by disasters.

    With the frequency, intensity and duration of weather hazards continuously worsening owing to climate change, there is little to suggest that the trend will not continue.

    “This report is a call for preventive action, to use data and other tools to anticipate displacement before it happens and for the humanitarian and development sectors to work together with governments to develop longer-term solutions to prevent displacement,” Ms. Pope stressed.

    Conflict and violence

    Displacement caused by conflict and violence remains high and continues to be a major cause for displacement, too – although it did decrease slightly in 2024, compared to the previous 12 months.

    Over 20 million conflict-related displacements have been recorded and almost half of these stem from Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    “These latest numbers prove that internal displacement is not just a humanitarian crisis; it’s a clear development and political challenge that requires far more attention than it currently receives,” said Alexandra Bilak, director of the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: Sudan refugees, aid for Syrian returnees, MERS alert in Saudi Arabia, Venezuela urged to end secret detentions

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, reported on Wednesday that most of the new arrivals are women and children.

    Many have come from Zamzam camp and the city of El Fasher, locations targeted by paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, who’ve been fighting forces of the military government for more than two years.

    In Chad, the high numbers of those arriving are putting significant strain on overwhelmed resources.

    Exhausted and victimised

    Aid teams say that many refugees arrive exhausted after walking for days because they are unable to afford transport.

    They report being victims of targeted attacks, looting and sexual violence.

    Numerous children have been injured, families separated, and others remain missing, the refugee agency said.

    Immediate needs in Chad include shelter, food, medical care and psychological support but the $409 million refugee response appeal is only 20 per cent funded.

    Syria’s returnees desperately need help to start over

    Syrians trying to rebuild their lives in their war-torn country urgently need the support of the rest of the world to help them start again, UN aid agencies said on Wednesday.

    Hopes rose this week in Damascus following Donald Trump’s move to end punitive sanctions – but after more than 13 years of civil war that ended with the fall of the Assad regime last December, many communities today face a range of basic problems.

    These include unreliable access to electricity, clean water and healthcare.

    Records destroyed

    The destruction of public records is also preventing returnees from accessing essential services or claiming housing and land rights, according to the UN migration agency, IOM.

    Its Director-General, Amy Pope, insisted Syrians were resilient and innovative but that they needed help, now. “Enabling (them) to return to a country that is on the path to stability and progress is critical for the country’s future,” she insisted.

    A new IOM report from more than 1,100 communities across Syria found that work is scarce, partly because farming and markets are still struggling to recover.

    Shelter reconstruction is also needed urgently, while unresolved property issues continue to prevent people from rejoining their communities.

    Since January 2024, the UN agency has recorded more than 1.3 million returnees previously displaced within Syria, in addition to nearly 730,000 arrivals from abroad.

    WHO issues warning over deadly MERS outbreak in Saudi Arabia

    A recent outbreak of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in Saudi Arabia has raised concerns after two people died from the disease between March and April.

    The World Health Organization (WHO) has released updated guidelines to help contain the outbreak, which has seen nine confirmed cases – seven of them in the capital, Riyadh. Several of those infected were healthcare workers who caught the virus from a patient.

    MERS is caused by a zoonotic coronavirus, from the same family of viruses as COVID-19. While WHO estimates the fatality rate to be around 36 per cent, the true figure may be lower, as mild cases often go undiagnosed.

    Despite the recent cases, the risk of wider spread remains moderate at both the regional and global levels, according to WHO.

    MERS is primarily carried by dromedary camels and can be passed to humans through direct or indirect contact with infected animals.

    Human-to-human transmission usually happens in healthcare settings, through respiratory droplets or close contact.

    No vaccine, no cure

    Much like COVID-19, MERS can range from no symptoms at all to severe respiratory illness, including acute respiratory distress — and in some cases, death. There’s currently no vaccine or specific treatment.

    To stop the virus from spreading, WHO urges hospitals and clinics to step up infection prevention and control measures, especially where suspected cases are being treated.

    Since MERS was first identified in 2012, it has caused 858 deaths across 27 countries in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.

    Call for Venezuela to end secret detention of political opponents

    Top independent human rights experts have urged the Venezuelan authorities to stop the reported practice of holding political opponents incommunicado.

    In an alert on Wednesday, they insisted that these “targeted detentions” were illegal and amounted to enforced disappearance, a major human rights violation if proved and potentially an international crime.

    They maintained that using secret detention was a deliberate strategy by the State “to silence opposition figures…and to instill fear among the population”.

    Lack of legal protection

    The mission pointed to a widespread lack of “effective judicial protection” for civil society in Venezuela and accused State security forces of colluding with the Public Prosecutor’s Office.

    The services allegedly responsible for detentions include the national intelligence service, the national guard and military counterintelligence.

    The mission’s independent rights experts also maintained that criminal courts and the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Tribunal of Justice were also “complicit” by ensuring that the alleged crimes went unpunished.

    The Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela was created by the Human Rights Council in 2019; its members are not UN staff and they work in an independent capacity.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Syrians heading home find few of the basics needed to survive

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    Hopes rose last week in Damascus when fuel prices dropped instantly following Donald Trump’s move to end punitive sanctions.

    But after more than 13 years of civil war that ended with the fall of the Assad regime last December, ordinary Syrians face an exhausting list of other problems.

    These include an absence of housing – caused by bomb damage on a scale with Gaza – unreliable access to electricity, clean water, healthcare and work.

    Refugee agency call

    Since last December, half a million Syrians have returned home, many for the first time since the war began, according to the UN refugee agency, UNHCR.  

    “We must ensure that people who return can stay and thrive: that is also why the lifting of sanctions is crucial, as reconstruction is urgently needed,” said High Commissioner Filippo Grandi, in an online message.

    Today, transitional authorities govern Syria under President Ahmad al-Sharaa.  

    ‘Destroyed at all levels’

    But the once-prosperous country remains scarred – “the infrastructure in Syria is almost completely destroyed at all levels,” said Hail Khalaf, Officer-in-Charge for Syria at the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM).

    Mr. Khalaf, who spoke to UN News from the capital Damascus where electricity only comes on for four hours a day, confirmed that the protracted war had impacted Syrian society in its entirety – not least education.

    “The impact of the removal of US sanctions on Syria was observed very quickly on the daily lives of Syrians,” he said. “There was an instant drop in fuel prices in Syria the moment the removal of sanctions was announced.”

    “We hope that the American government will expedite the removal of the Caesar Act,” he stressed, referring to the sanctions package against the former Syrian Government signed into law by the first Trump administration in 2019.

    Dilapidated economy 

    Those returning to Syria and looking for a job in the agricultural sector in particular are confronted with an industry in shambles, IOM said in a report.

    Farmers make up the great majority of those who were internally displaced by the fighting to camps. Most – 88 per cent – say they cannot work the soil again, as most farms are either operating at half-capacity or unable to function at all, according to IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix.

    “The country is exhausted, and the economy is also exhausted,” explained Mr. Khalaf.

    Today, more than 90 per cent of Syria’s population lives below the poverty line as of December 2024, according to UNHCR data.

    The war uprooted around 7.4 million people inside Syria and at least six million are refugees, mainly in neighboring countries including Türkiye, Lebanon and Jordan, the UN agency noted.

    Working at a loss

    The national currency – the Syrian lira – has been exponentially devalued by the conflict.

    Before the war, one US dollar was equivalent to 50 Syrian lira. Today it is worth about 9,000 Syrian lira – leaving livelihoods in disarray.  

    “Most Syrians do not earn enough,” Mr. Khalaf explained. “In the public sector, most employees earn approximately $35 to $40 a month, which is not even enough for transportation between work and home.”

    Missing paper trail

    Gaps in civil documentation also complicate people’s ability to claim housing and land rights.

    Damaged public infrastructure has also fuelled outbreaks of waterborne diseases, vaccine-preventable illnesses and malnutrition, aid teams have warned.

    “Syrians are resilient and innovative, but they need significant help to rebuild their communities and their lives,” insisted IOM Director General Amy Pope.  

    In a bid to help, UN agencies including IOM are working with the Syrian Government to “find a formula for action” and “sustainable solutions” for all returnees so that they can rebuild their lives again.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Over 60 per cent of the Arab world still outside the banking system

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    Even more impressively, the number of Egyptian women with an account increased by 260 per cent, though gender gaps do remain.

    But how you widen financial inclusion overall is a question the Arab region is currently grappling with.

    A new report from the UN Economic and Social Commission in Western Asia (UNESCWA) published on Thursday highlights the challenge.

    Nearly 64 per cent of adults in the 22 countries in the Arab region are still without an account – or “unbanked” – a higher number than all other regions of the world and significantly higher than the 24 per cent global average.

    The report warns that this level of financial exclusion will negatively impact economic opportunities and the region’s ability to meet Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

    “The Arab region cannot afford to treat financial services as a luxury. Without inclusive finance, we cannot hope to lift people out of poverty, support small businesses, or achieve equitable growth,” said ESCWA’s Mario Jales, lead author of the report.

    ‘The digital divide within the divide’

    The report finds that women and disabled people have even less access to financial services – only 29 per cent of women and 21 per cent of disabled people in the region have an account.

    Similarly, rural communities and younger and older people also experience lower rates of inclusion in the banking system.

    The report also highlighted that access to loans for small and medium-sized businesses is worryingly low, reducing entrepreneurial and other income-producing activities.

    In addition to gender disparities, there are variations within the Arab region – 81 per cent of people in low-income countries do not have access to an account in comparison to 67 per cent in middle-income countries and 23 per cent in the high-income bracket. 

    © FAO/Pedro Costa Gomes

    As of 2024, 69 percent of Egyptian women have bank accounts, a large increase from 2016.

    Models of success

    Given that regional rates of financial inclusion remain so low, how do countries work to improve them?

    The basis of Egypt’s success was the implementation of a comprehensive national strategy to promote financial inclusion, a strategy which actively worked to target underserved communities, ESCWA points out.

    For example, in Egypt, 22 per cent of ATMs in the country have now been equipped with accessibility features including brighter lighting and Braille keyboards.

    Other countries in the region have also implemented national strategies which include targeted initiatives.

    Jordan, which has the second widest gender gap in the region, implemented a Microfund for Women to provide loans for income-generating activities. There are now 60 branches across the country, serving 133,000 borrowers, 95 per cent of whom are women.

    Moreover, some banks in the region have worked to implement financial literacy classes and others have worked to tailor their services to underserved communities including by lowering minimum deposits.

    The report concludes that an expansion of all these activities – national policymaking which targets underserved communities and private bank activities which lower barriers to entry and support financial literacy – will be essential in improving financial inclusion.

    “The path forward exists, but it requires political will, targeted investment and a whole-of-society approach,” the report concludes.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Hundreds of thousands of Afghans forced back into danger, says UNHCR

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    According to the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), over 250,000 Afghans returned in April alone – among them, 96,000 who were forcibly deported. The agency voiced particular alarm over the fate of women and girls, who face increasing repression under Taliban rule.

    The large-scale returns are putting even greater pressure on already stretched humanitarian resources and worsening the plight of millions struggling to survive.

    “They face increasing restrictions in terms of access to employment, education and freedom of movement,” said agency spokesperson Babar Baloch.

    “We keep telling the governments of Iran and Pakistan that returns to Afghanistan must be voluntary, safe and dignified,” he continued.

    Aside from women and girls, forcibly returned human rights activists and journalists as well as ethnic or religious minority groups are among those who face the biggest dangers back in Afghanistan.

    Massive needs

    These risks are further compounded by rising needs, where half the population relies on humanitarian assistance. Since 2023, more than 3.5 million people have returned to the country.

    Such high numbers of returnees only increase the risk of further internal displacement and attempts to reach Europe, Mr. Baloch noted.

    UNHCR is seeking $75 billion to assist returnees and help stabilize the region. Afghans represented the largest group of irregular arrivals from Asia Pacific to Europe in 2024, at more than four in 10.

    Additional funds will allow UNHCR in Afghanistan to provide returnees with urgent assistance including access to services, livelihoods, reintegration services, travel and financial assistance – “with emphasis on reaching women and girls,” Mr. Baloch explained.

    The agency also plans to address immediate protection needs and enhance reception capacity.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Field of dreams: Football breathes life into Yemen’s camps

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    The tournament is more than a sporting event. It’s a lifeline. In Ma’rib Governorate, where over 2.3 million internally displaced people have settled, families live in makeshift shelters, often after being forced to flee multiple times. Water is scarce, the heat is unforgiving, and access to education and health care is limited at best. In these conditions, there is little space for childhood, let alone for play.

    Yet when the whistle blows, something shifts. On the field, children and young adults are no longer defined by conflict. For a moment, they become teammates, competitors and determined athletes, focused on the game and nothing else.

    This year’s tournament, which is organised by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) brought together youth from more than a dozen displacement sites, including Salwa, Al-Ramsa and Al-Sowayda. In areas where daily life can feel heavy and isolated, the matches created a sense of connection and community.

    Among the players is Basheer, a 26-year-old displaced from his home and now living in the heart of Salwa displacement site. Basheer shoulders far more than just his own future. He is the sixth of seven brothers and the only one with a steady income. Every day, he works on a minibus, shuttling people back and forth across town from early morning to late afternoon. On a good day, he brings home 20,000 Yemeni rials – barely enough to cover food.

    The rest of the family depends on him. His brothers are out of work. The eldest managed to reach the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and sends money when he can, but the support is irregular. Most days, they survive on whatever Basheer is able to bring home.

    Football, for Basheer, is more than a distraction. It’s a refuge. A rare moment of focus and joy in a life shaped by duty and survival. “Football takes me to another world,” says Basheer. “When I’m playing, I forget everything else.”

    © IOM/Haithm Abdulbaqi

    Player in football tournament for displaced people in Ma’rib, Yemen

    ‘Some came barefoot and played all day under the burning sun’

    Despite its popularity, this year’s tournament faced a serious challenge: a lack of funding. In previous years, IOM had managed to fully equip the teams. Players received football boots, socks, kits and even proper goalposts. This year, IOM’s Camp Coordination and Camp Management team could only provide basic jerseys.

    Jamal Alshami, an IOM field assistant and one of the long-time organisers, feared the turnout would suffer and that players might lose interest or feel discouraged. But the opposite happened.

    “Even more players joined than last year,” he recounts. “Some came barefoot and played all day under the burning sun. They were happy just to be there.”

    Displacement takes a toll on mental health. Life in the camps is stressful and isolating. But sport, and football in particular, gives young people a way to reconnect with themselves and with each other. “When people are displaced, they leave behind everything. That includes the things they used to enjoy,” says Mr. Alshami. “That’s why these activities matter. They help people relax and reconnect with something they once loved.”

    That sense of joy was felt far beyond the players themselves. Spectators gathered along the sidelines, cheering with every goal. Commentators brought the matches to life with their lively calls. Even camp managers paused their work to watch. For a few hours each day, the camps felt different. They felt louder, lighter and full of life.

    With Ma’rib continuing to receive new waves of displacement, IOM is working to bring mental health and psychosocial support closer to the ground. This includes sports, youth clubs and cultural events. Football, in this context, is more than a game. It is a reminder of identity. A way to heal. A moment of normal life in a place where very little feels normal.

    © IOM/Haithm Abdulbaqi

    Players in football tournament for displaced people in Ma’rib, Yemen

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Hamas Responds Positively to Gaza Ceasefire Proposal

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    GAZA, July 5 (Xinhua) — Hamas on Friday evening gave a “positive” response to mediators’ proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza.

    “Hamas has completed its consultations with Palestinian factions and forces on the mediators’ latest proposal to end the aggression against our people in Gaza. The movement gave the mediators its answer, which was positive,” the movement said in a statement.

    “The movement is committed to immediately launching a round of negotiations on the mechanism for implementing this framework,” the statement added.

    Meanwhile, a source familiar with the situation told Xinhua that Hamas’ response is generally in line with the latest version of the proposal brokered by Qatar and Egypt.

    According to a Hamas source close to the movement’s leadership, the group proposed making minor changes to the existing draft without significantly deviating from the core elements of the mediation framework.

    Regarding humanitarian aid, the source said Hamas stressed that “aid must be delivered in sufficient quantities to ensure the smooth operation of bakeries, hospitals and basic services.”

    “Hamas insists that humanitarian aid be delivered through neutral and internationally recognized organizations, including the UN, the Red Crescent and other relevant institutions,” the source added.

    Speaking about the Israeli withdrawal, the source noted that “Hamas does not object to minor adjustments to the proposed withdrawal to the March 2 line, provided that the details are clarified during indirect talks.”

    Regarding the duration and continuity of the negotiations, the source explained that “Hamas is not specifically demanding an extension of the negotiations by 30 or 60 days.”

    “Instead, the movement believes that negotiations should continue beyond the 60-day deadline until a mutual and comprehensive agreement is reached,” the source stressed.

    He described the overall tone of the response as “positive” and said it “could help narrow the gap between the negotiating parties.”

    “The current position of Hamas shows some flexibility and readiness for serious interaction through intermediaries,” the source summed up. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Unknown fire erupts near Syrian presidential palace

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

    Smoke rises as a result of a fire that erupted near the Syrian al-Shaab presidential palace in Damascus, Syria, July 4, 2025. Unknown fire erupted Friday afternoon in bushes close to the Syrian al-Shaab presidential palace situated on top of a mountain overlooking the capital Damascus, sending thick plums of black smoke over wide areas, local media and witnesses said. [Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua]

    Unknown fire erupted Friday afternoon in bushes close to the Syrian al-Shaab presidential palace situated on top of a mountain overlooking the capital Damascus, sending thick plums of black smoke over wide areas, local media and witnesses said.

    State-run Al-Ikhbaria TV said the fire erupted in a kitchen in one of the palace’s gardens, not inside the building.

    It said civil defenses are trying to control the blaze.

    Xinhua reporter nearby saw huge clouds of smoke filling the western Mazzeh neighbourhood. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China, France agree to promote multilateralism and bring more certainty to the world

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    PARIS, July 5 (Xinhua) — French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, calling for jointly advancing multilateralism and strengthening coordination in combating hegemonic conflicts and bloc confrontation.

    During the meeting at the Elysee Palace, E. Macron asked Wang Yi to convey his best wishes and friendly greetings to Chinese President Xi Jinping.

    The French leader noted that France and China have broad consensus on many important issues, including support for multilateralism and respect for international law. Both countries are permanent members of the UN Security Council and bear special responsibilities in the context of increasing uncertainty and instability in the world.

    According to him, the French side hopes to strengthen political coordination with China on international economic, financial and global governance issues, as well as jointly counter global challenges, inject vitality into multilateralism and prevent the world from plunging into hegemonic conflicts and bloc confrontation.

    E. Macron stressed that on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, the European Union (EU) and China must make a strategic choice to become predictable and reliable friends and partners for each other. France attaches great importance to the development of French-Chinese relations and welcomes increased Chinese investment to build more balanced economic and trade ties.

    Wang Yi conveyed warm greetings from Xi Jinping to Macron and noted that China is willing to work with France to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, pave the way for future high-level contacts and deepen all-round cooperation.

    He stressed that China and France are comprehensive strategic partners and two major stabilizing forces in the world. The more turbulent the world is, the more the strategic value of China-France relations is emphasized, the Chinese diplomat added.

    China is willing to strengthen strategic communication and joint cooperation with France, jointly uphold multilateralism, oppose unilateral pressure and resist bloc confrontation, so as to bring more certainty and predictability to a changing and unstable world, promote equitable and orderly multipolarity as well as inclusive and win-win economic globalization, Wang said.

    China is committed to deepening mutually beneficial cooperation with France and hopes that the French side will create more favorable and fair conditions for Chinese companies to invest and operate in France, he added.

    China and the EU have resolved the issue of brandy imports through friendly consultations, Wang said. He also hoped that France, as a key EU country, would urge the European side to properly handle the trade and economic disputes between China and the EU and actively respond to China’s concerns.

    The parties also exchanged views on the Ukrainian crisis, the situation in the Gaza Strip, the Iranian nuclear issue and other issues. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –