NewzIntel.com

Category: Middle East

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – Hearing on the ICJ and ICC decisions on Israeli/Palestinian conflict and the EU role – 15-07-2025 – Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    AFET hearing on the ICJ and ICC.jpeg © Image used under license from Adobe Stock

    On Tuesday, 15 July 2025, from 11:00 to 12:30 in Brussels (room Antall 2Q2), the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) will hold a public hearing on the implications of the decisions of the ICJ and ICC on the EU’s role in supporting a peaceful solution for the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. This hearing intends to clarify the overall situation and to provide both legal and political insights in the search for constructive EU positions on the matter.

    The experts invited are Gleider Hernández, Professor of Public International Law, KU Leuven and Michael Meier, Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University Law Center (GULC) and Associate Fellow. Geneva Centre for Security Policy.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – European Parliament Press Kit for the European Council of 26 – 27 June 2025

    Source: European Parliament

    European Parliament President Roberta Metsola will represent the European Parliament at the summit, where she will address the heads of state or government at 11.00 and hold a press conference after her speech.

    When: Press conference at around 11.45 on 26 June

    Where: European Council press room and via Parliament’s webstreaming or EbS.

    At their meeting in Brussels, the heads of state or government will focus on ways to bolster EU competitiveness. They will also discuss how the EU can continue supporting Kyiv against Russia’s aggression – with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, how to strengthen the EU’s defence capabilities, and the EU’s response to the escalation in the Middle East. Leaders will also discuss migration and the situation in the Western Balkans.

    Competitiveness

    In a resolution, adopted on Thursday 19 June in response to the European Commission’s Clean Industrial Deal plan, Parliament stresses the need to combine climate action with industrial competitiveness. It underscores the importance of the EU’s newly established industrial decarbonisation bank, which MEPs consider vital for scaling up investment in clean technologies. The resolution addresses the importance of regulatory simplification and the need to streamline permitting procedures to support the transition and innovation efforts of small businesses. MEPs also support the action plan for affordable energy and want measures to boost cross-border energy infrastructure and to complete the energy union.

    On 18 June, MEPs adopted a resolution highlighting the stabilising effect of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) at a time of significant economic uncertainty in Europe. They note that the RRF prevented the fragmentation of the EU internal market and promoted economic recovery in member states. MEPs are concerned that the short timeframe for the implementation of outstanding RRF funding poses challenges to the completion of key reforms, large-scale investments and innovative projects, as well as the 70% of milestones and targets that have still to be reached. They urge the Commission to set up new programmes, which should be flexible and reactive to changing circumstances and guarantee predictability. MEPs also demand an 18-month extension for ongoing mature projects.

    In a keynote speech at the event “Europe at the crossroads” on 13 May, Parliament President Roberta Metsola outlined her vision for a smarter, stronger and safer Europe. The President argued “the time of hypothetical crossroads is over. There is only one path left: forward and together”. She called for a different Europe, which is more realistic, more self-critical and supportive of its industries, with less regulation and more innovation. On the need to cut back regulation, she said: “Europe’s simplification agenda needs to signal the start of a new Europe and with the upcoming MFF, trigger an economic boom.”

    Further reading

    Clean Industrial Deal must marry industrial competitiveness with climate action

    National recovery plans should add to EU resilience and strategic autonomy

    Metsola calls to “re-launch Europe as a global power”

    MEPs call for a more competitive EU that respects social and labour standards

    Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine

    On 16 June, Parliament debated the human cost of Russia’s war against Ukraine and the urgent need to end Russian aggression, the situation of illegally detained civilians and prisoners of war, and the continued bombing of civilians. You can watch the debate here. Parliament ill vote on a resolution on 9 July.

    On 17 June, MEPs agreed to update the EU-Ukraine road transport agreement and extend it until the end of 2025, to continue facilitating the movement of goods in and out of the country. Concluded in June 2022, the agreement has facilitated the transport of vital goods such as fuel and humanitarian aid into Ukraine, and enabled Ukrainian exports such as grain, ore, and steel to reach the EU and beyond. Set to expire in June 2024, its application continued provisionally pending formal backing by MEPs and the EU Council of its extension until the end of 2025.

    On 22 May, MEPs backed increased tariffs on fertilisers and certain Russian and Belarusian agricultural goods, seeking to reduce EU dependency on those imports. Plenary has endorsed the Commission proposal to increase by 50% EU tariffs on agricultural products from Russia and Belarus that were not yet subject to extra customs duties. The aim is to reduce EU dependence on the two countries still further. Products targeted by the new tariffs include sugar, vinegar, flour and animal feed.

    In a resolution adopted on 8 May, MEPs strongly condemn Russia’s “genocidal strategy”, with the support of Belarus, designed to erase Ukrainian identity. The forced transfer and deportation of Ukrainian children, their illegal adoption, their assassination, and the forced Russification and militarisation must stop. Russia must report the identities and whereabouts of all deported Ukrainian children and ensure their well-being and safe and unconditional return. The Russian authorities must also, MEPs say, allow international organisations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and UNICEF, access to all deported Ukrainian children.

    On 8 May, MEPs voted to renew the suspension of import duties and quotas for certain imports from Ukraine, such as iron and steel, due to expire on 5 June 2025.With the adoption of the Autonomous Trade Measures (ATM) Regulation, the EU liberalised trade with Ukraine by suspending trade defence measures on 4 June 2022. MEPs have now approved the proposed prolongation of these trade liberalisation measures, which focus steel, to provide Ukraine with vital export revenues

    On 7 May, Parliament discussed with Commission President von der Leyen and Polish Minister for EU Affairs Szłapka how the EU can contribute to achieving a just, sustainable, and comprehensive peace deal for Ukraine. The debate focussed on the EU’s political, financial and military support for Ukraine, and its role in efforts to secure a peace settlement that preserves Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and is based on international law.

    Further reading

    European Parliament backs extension of EU-Ukraine road transport agreement

    Parliament approves new tariffs on Russian and Belarussian agricultural goods

    Parliament backs extension of trade liberalisation measure for Ukrainian imports

    The EU must contribute to robust security guarantees for Ukraine

    Joint statement on the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

    EP Conference of Presidents’ statement on EU support for Ukraine

    How the EU is supporting Ukraine

    EU stands with Ukraine


    European defence and security

    On 18 June, MEPs outlined their expectations for the 24 – 26 June NATO summit in The Hague, Netherlands, in a debate with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.

    On 24 April, the Committees on Industry, Research and Energy and Security and Defence have adopted their position on the proposed creation of a European defence industry programme (EDIP), designed to strengthen Europe’s defence industry, ramp up defence product manufacturing and provide more support for Ukraine. More specifically, MEPs backed measures to boost Europe’s defence technological and industrial base (EDTIB), to strengthen EU defence and integrate the EU defence industry. They want the new programme to focus on improving the supply of weapons, ammunition and other crisis-relevant products, boosting manufacturing capacities and ensuring their ramp-up, reducing lead times for production and delivery, and increasing stockpiles. MEPs and Council are now negotiating the final shape of the law.

    In a resolution adopted on 12 March, Parliament calls on the EU to act urgently and ensure its own security. This will mean, MEPs say, strengthening relationships with like-minded partners, and strongly diminishing reliance on non-EU countries. The EU needs “truly ground-breaking efforts” and actions “close to those of wartime”, say MEPs, who welcomed the recently tabled ReArm plan. To achieve peace and stability in Europe, the EU must support Ukraine and become more resilient itself, MEPs argue. The resolution says “Europe is today facing the most profound military threat to its territorial integrity since the end of the Cold War”. It calls on member states, international partners, and NATO allies to lift all restrictions on the use of Western weapons systems delivered to Ukraine against military targets on Russian territory.

    Further reading

    MEPs push for a more ambitious European defence industry programme

    MEPs urge the EU to ensure its own security

    “We cannot afford to depend on others to keep us safe”, Metsola tells EU leaders

    “Europe must be responsible for its own security”, Metsola tells EU leaders

    MEPs call on Europe to strengthen its defence capacity

    Rutte to MEPs: “We are safe now, we might not be safe in five years”


    Middle East

    On 17 June, MEPs and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas debated the situation in the Middle East. The debate focussed on the risk of further instability in the Middle East following the Israel-Iran military escalation, the review of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

    On 17 June, the King of Jordan, His Majesty Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein, addressed MEPs at a formal sitting in Strasbourg. Welcoming King Abdullah II of Jordan to the hemicycle, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said: “The European Parliament appreciates Jordan’s critical efforts in reducing regional tensions, in pushing for a ceasefire in Gaza and for the return of hostages whilst also facilitating so much urgently needed humanitarian aid, as well as for the unwavering support for Palestinian and Syrian refugees and a two-State solution as a path to lasting peace.”

    The King outlined two essential areas for action: first, supporting development, because a thriving Middle East creates opportunities that benefit us all; and second, strong, coordinated action to ensure global security. “Our mutual security won’t be assured until our global community acts, not only to end the three-year war in Ukraine, but also the world’s longest and most destructive flashpoint, the eight-decade-long Palestinian-Israeli conflict.” King Abdullah II added: “Palestinians, like all people, deserve the rights to freedom, sovereignty, and, yes, statehood (…) The path to peace has been walked before. It can be again, if we have the courage to choose it, and the will to walk it together.”

    On 21 May, Parliament discussed the EU’s response to the Israeli government’s plan to seize the Gaza Strip, ensuring effective humanitarian support and the liberation of hostages.

    Further reading

    King Abdullah II of Jordan: “A shameful version of humanity is unfolding in Gaza”

    The EU must support the political transition and reconstruction of Syria


    Western Balkans

    In a vote on 24 June, the Foreign Affairs Committee backed North Macedonia’s EU path and called for bold reforms. Skopje must introduce constitutional changes, strengthen rule of law and fight corruption, MEPs say. The report underlines that EU accession is ultimately a matter of political will—both in enacting reforms and adopting constitutional amendments. MEPs call on all political parties in North Macedonia to engage in constructive dialogue to reach the required consensus, which would strengthen the country’s multi-ethnic character and accelerate EU progress.

    In two reports adopted on 18 June, MEPs welcomed Montenegro´s objective to join the EU in 2028 and praised Moldova’s EU membership efforts. Parliament is calling for political stability in Montenegro and substantial progress regarding electoral and judicial reforms as well as the fight against organised crime and corruption. MEPs stress that Montenegro remains the leading candidate in the EU enlargement process and point to the overwhelming support of its citizens and the majority of political actors for joining the EU in 2028. Parliament welcomes the country’s full alignment with the EU’s common foreign and security policy, including EU sanctions against Russia, and commends Montenegro for its support for the international rules-based order at the United Nations.

    Praising Moldova’s exemplary commitment to advancing its progress towards EU membership, Parliament recognises that EU-Moldova relations have entered a new phase. Cooperation has intensified alongside sustained efforts by the government in Chișinău to align Moldova’s laws with those of the EU (the so-called “EU acquis”). Despite significant internal and external challenges, such as the effects of Russia’s continuing war against neighbouring Ukraine and Moscow’s interference in Moldova’s democratic processes, MEPs are encouraged by the Moldovan government’s progress on meeting the EU’s enlargement requirements and the country’s ambition to open negotiations on more enlargement-related issues.

    In a report adopted on 4 June, the Foreign Affairs Committee has praised Albania’s steadfast commitment to EU accession. MEPs highlight Albania’s broad political consensus and strong public support for joining the EU, alongside full alignment with the EU’s foreign and security policy. While welcoming Albania’s aim to complete accession talks by 2027 and the progress already made, MEPs stress the urgent need to intensify reforms. Key priorities include strengthening judicial independence, combating corruption and organised crime, and protecting fundamental rights. Enhancing media pluralism and transparency remains crucial to building public trust. Plenary will vote on the report on 9 July.

    The Foreign Affairs Committee called urgently for reform and unity in Bosnia and Herzegovina to advance EU accession and tackle corruption and division, in a report adopted on 4 June. MEPs reaffirm their strong support for BiH’s EU accession bid, emphasising a merit-based process aligned with the Copenhagen criteria and grounded in the country’s unity, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and in equality among all citizens. Welcoming the European Council’s decision to open accession negotiations with BiH amid the changing geopolitical landscape following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the committee acknowledged key reforms but expressed concern over stalled progress and weak implementation. The vote in plenary is scheduled for 9 July.

    On 7 May, Parliament adopted two resolutions, saying Kosovo needs to accelerate its EU-related reforms and that Serbia must do more to protect the rule of law and media freedom and to fight corruption.

    Kosovo has made notable strides in its electoral reforms, economic resilience, and the protection of fundamental rights, say MEPs. However, challenges remain regarding judicial reforms, media freedom, public administration efficiency, and the digitalisation of public services. Continued commitment to comprehensive reforms and inclusive governance is essential for Kosovo to make progress on its European integration pathway, they stress.

    Despite some progress in negotiations, Serbia still has major hurdles to overcome, according to MEPs. Belgrade needs to improve its internal political dialogue, protect the rule of law, and make anti-corruption reforms. It also has to work on reaching a comprehensive normalisation agreement with Kosovo, and fully align with EU foreign policy. Parliament calls on Serbia’s authorities to ensure the independence of key institutions, including media regulators such as the country’s Regulatory Authority for Electronic Media.

    Further reading

    European Parliament backs North Macedonia’s EU path, calls for bold reforms

    Montenegro and Moldova: MEPs applaud EU membership progress

    MEPs call on Albania to accelerate reforms and strengthen democratic institutions

    Support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU accession amid urgent calls for reform

    Parliament encourages Kosovo and Serbia to advance their EU accession reforms


    Migration

    On 18 June, Civil Liberties Committee MEPs backed proposals to give Europol and EU authorities more tools to fight migrant-smuggling and human trafficking. The proposed law would give the EU’s police agency Europol new tools to combat and investigate migrant-smuggling and human trafficking by coordinating the actions of EU national authorities. A European Centre Against Migrant Smuggling (ECAMS) would be formally established within Europol to support cross-border investigations. . Parliament and Council are now negotiating on the final shape of the law.

    On 19 May, Parliament and Council reached an agreement on gradually rolling out the Entry-Exit System (EES) at the EU’s external borders. Once operational, the system will register the data, including biometric data such as facial images and fingerprints, of third‑country nationals entering and leaving the Schengen area on short‑stay visas. The aim is to improve security, speed up the border check process, and reduce queues. The idea behind the gradual implementation over 180 days is to prevent a simultaneous launch in all countries from compromising the system. During the roll-out period, the launch could be temporarily suspended if waiting times become too long or there are technical issues. The vote in plenary will take place on 8 July.

    On 15 January, the Working Group on Asylum-Implementation of the Pact/CEAS (Common European Asylum System), formed by MEPs of all EP political groups, started to monitor the implementation of the EU Pact on Asylum and Migration. Chaired by Birgit Sippel (S&D, Germany), the Working Group will focus on scrutinising and monitoring the Common European Asylum System and the implementation of the Pact on Asylum and Migration.

    Further reading

    Migrant-smuggling: new resources and a stronger role for Europol

    Border security: agreement on gradual roll-out of Entry-Exit System

    MEPs kick off scrutiny work of the Asylum and Migration Pact

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: New Development Bank appoints Tshepiso Moahloli as regional DG

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The New Development Bank (NDB) has appointed Tshepiso Moahloli as the new Africa Regional Centre (ARC) Director-General, following an international competitive recruitment process. 

    Moahloli’s appointment took effect on 20 June 2025. 

    Moahloli’s role will entail managing the Bank’s African regional operations and leading the African continent, with a focus on project origination, preparation, and implementation supervision. She will also serve as a primary interface between the NDB and key project stakeholders in the region.

    The NDB is celebrating 10 years of operations this year. Since its inception in 2015, the Bank has approved 15 infrastructure projects in South Africa, valued at a total of US$7.3 billion. 

    These projects focus on addressing crucial infrastructure needs in sectors sincluding water, energy, transport and logistics networks.

    “Moahloli is a former National Treasury Deputy Director-General (DDG) for Asset and Liability Management and has amassed more than a decade of experience in the National Treasury providing operational and strategic leadership in Debt Management, Risk Management and Stakeholder Relations.

    “Prior to this appointment, Moahloli provided consulting services on various projects related to public debt, climate financing and broad infrastructure development. Moahloli provided strategic expertise at the newly formed Oman Debt Management Office,” National Treasury said.

    In partnership with the World Bank, she has also provided consulting support for the NDB in mapping out requisite reforms in infrastructure delivery for the National Treasury.

    Moahloli holds a Master of Business Administration in Executive Management from the University of Cape Town, and a Master of Commerce Economic Science (with Distinction) from the University of the Witwatersrand.

    National Treasury Director-General, Dr Duncan Pieterse, who is also South Africa’s representative on the NDB Board of Directors, wishes Moahloli well in her new role as she leads the expansion of the NDB Project Portfolio in South Africa and the broader African region for greater development impact. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank Launches 2025 Report on African Trade in a Shifting Global Financial Landscape

    African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) today launched its flagship African Trade Report 2025, themed “African Trade in a Changing Global Financial Architecture”, during the Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM2025) in Abuja.

    Download Document: https://apo-opa.co/3FY7kKJ

    The report looks at the performance of Africa’s trade in a challenging global environment charaterised by rising geopolitical tensions, new trade barriers, and financial uncertainty—and analyses how the continent could leverage these challenges into opportunities to enhance its resilience and navigate the evolving landscape.

    Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, said: “This year’s report provides a compelling roadmap for Africa to reposition itself in a volatile global economy. From strengthening trade finance systems to accelerating the AfCFTA, the message is clear: Africa must turn global fragmentation into an opportunity for industrialisation, digital progress, and greater control over its financial systems.”

    Dr. Yemi Kale, Afreximbank’s Group Chief Economist and Managing Director of Research, added: “Despite global headwinds, Africa’s trade rebounded strongly in 2024, with trade between African countries growing by 12.4% to reach US$220.3 billion, from a contraction of 5.9% in 2023. This shows the tangible benefits of AfCFTA implementation, even as the continent contends with rising inflation, sovereign debt risks, and a persistent trade finance gap.”

    The report shows that Africa’s total merchandise trade recovered, surging by 13.9% in 2024, to US$1.5 trillion, following a 5.4% contraction in 2023. However, Africa still makes up only 3.3% of global exports. That’s a clear signal. The continent must do more by moving away from commodity exports and accelerating its industrialisation process if it is to enhance its integration into global value chains and boost intra-African trade. It also needs better access to trade finance to bridge the gap estimated at about US$100 billion.

    While the global economy slowed to 3.3% growth in 2024 and is expected to dip further in 2025, Africa held steady. The continent’s economy grew by 3.2%, helped by strong commodity prices and better public finances. Still, growth remains uneven across the continent.

    Afreximbank’s African Trade Report 2025 emphasises the importance of advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which is becoming a foundation for trade resilience across the region. It also highlights the expanding use of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), which is helping to reduce reliance on foreign currencies and making cross-border trade more efficient.

    In addition, the report offers practical guidance on making trade rules and regulations more consistent across countries, unlocking investment from African institutions like pension funds and sovereign funds, and using Africa’s new seat in the G20 to push for overdue global reforms. This includes ensuring a fairer share of global financial resources, such as Special Drawing Rights, an international reserve currency created by the IMF and increasing access to climate finance. It also calls for changes in credit ratings to better reflect the strength and potential of African economies.

    The report highlights the growing significance of the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AAMFI), as it is increasing funding for development and helping to rebuild a financial ecosystem that works better for Africans. In 2024, Afreximbank alone disbursed more than US$17.5 billion in trade finance. It plans to increase that amount to US$40 billion by 2026.

    As Africa faces a rapidly changing global environment, the report offers more than just analysis. It provides a clear and practical plan for building a stronger, fairer, and more resilient African economy, driven from within the continent.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

    Follow us on:
    X: https://apo-opa.co/3GfxQza 
    Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4lp4bCw 
    LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4nk27h5 
    Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4lt2GDB

    About Afreximbank:
    African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa1), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

    For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • France says it intercepted drones targeting Israel prior to Iran ceasefire

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    France’s military took part in efforts to stop Iranian drones targeting Israel prior to this week’s ceasefire, the country’s defence minister Sebastien Lecornu said late on Wednesday.

    “I can confirm that the French army intercepted less than 10 drones in the last few days during the different military operations conducted by the Islamic Republic of Iran against Israel, either by ground-to-air systems or via our Rafale fighter jets,” Lecornu said during a parliamentary debate on the situation in the Middle East.

    Lecornu said Iran had launched some 400 ballistic missiles and 1,000 drones towards Israel during the 12-day conflict.

    Israel started attacking Iran on June 13, saying it aimed to destroy its arch-enemy’s nuclear capabilities. Its strikes wiped out a senior echelon of Iran’s military command and killed several nuclear scientists. Iranian authorities said 610 people were killed and nearly 5,000 injured in the country.

    Tehran’s retaliatory missiles killed at least 28 people in Israel and damaged hundreds of buildings, until a ceasefire came into effect on Tuesday.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s clean energy drive powers global sustainable development

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

    Despite the scorching heat, indoor spaces at the Summer Davos Forum venue in the northern Chinese city of Tianjin stay cool as green electricity keeps the air conditioning running smoothly.

    Two local renewable energy providers supply 800,000 kWh of green electricity — ensuring 100 percent renewable power for the entire event held at the National Convention and Exhibition Center (Tianjin). That’s equivalent to replacing approximately 300 tonnes of standard coal consumption and cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 600 tonnes, according to State Grid Corporation of China (State Grid).

    In addition, solar panels on the venue’s rooftop are also providing a steady supply of green electricity for the event.

    Themed “Entrepreneurship for a New Era,” the 16th Annual Meeting of the New Champions, also known as the Summer Davos, has been held from June 24 to 26 at the 1.38 million-square-meter National Convention and Exhibition Center (Tianjin). The event has attracted over 1,700 leading figures from more than 90 countries and regions.

    During the forum, clean energy — particularly its rapid development in China and global influence — has become a heated topic of discussion.

    “We have already seen great results in China for its application of new technologies, for example, solar energy. China has been leading very much in the field of renewables,” World Economic Forum President Borge Brende highlighted during the event.

    China has been taking concrete steps toward its commitment to peak carbon emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060. Over the years, the country has made remarkable progress in clean energy development, emerging as a global leader driving both domestic decarbonization and international sustainable development.

    In 2024, 86 percent of newly installed power capacity in China came from renewable energy sources, while the share of cumulative installed renewable capacity rose to a record high of 56 percent of the national total, official data showed.

    “China’s robust industrial foundation is accelerating the growth of green industries, including renewable equipment manufacturing, green transportation, eco-friendly infrastructure, and low-carbon construction. On the path toward global decarbonization, China has become an indispensable force,” said Yin Zheng, executive vice president of China and East Asia Operations at Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and industrial automation. The company has been a regular participant at Summer Davos.

    “By leveraging China’s industrial development momentum, Schneider Electric has been globalizing its green R&D achievements cultivated in China,” Yin said, adding that the company is collaborating with Chinese partners to develop energy infrastructure projects in Belt and Road Initiative participating countries, facilitating local energy transitions and economic growth.

    Schneider Electric plans to empower China’s green industrial upgrade with more innovative technologies and solutions, extending the benefits of sustainable productivity worldwide, he noted.

    JinkoSolar, a leading photovoltaic supplier, has expanded its clean energy products to many countries, including the United States, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Chile.

    “Sunlight knows no borders, and neither should clean energy. We are committed to globalizing our technological innovations to benefit communities worldwide,” said Qian Jing, global vice president of JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Iranian National and Wife Federally Indicted After Wife Threatens to Shoot ICE Officers in Tempe

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – On June 24, 2025, a federal grand jury in Phoenix returned an indictment against Iranian national, Mehrzad Asadi Eidivand, 40, of Tempe, Arizona for Alien in Possession of a Firearm, and against his wife, Linet Vartanniavartanians, 37, a United States Citizen from Tempe, Arizona, for Threatening to Assault a Federal Officer.

    Documents filed in the case allege that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officers went to Eidivand and Vartanniavartanians’ Tempe residence on Saturday, June 21, 2025, to administratively arrest Eidivand for failing to comply with a 2013 removal order. Eidivand, an Iranian national, had challenged the removal order on several occasions, but the Board of Immigration Appeals denied those motions repeatedly. Despite the court order to return to his home country, Eidivand remained in the United States for over a decade.

    When ICE ERO officers arrived at the couple’s residence, they announced themselves and were answered by Vartanniavartanians, who refused to open the door and told the officers to return with a warrant. Shortly thereafter, Tempe Police officers arrived on the scene and told ICE ERO that Vartanniavartanians had called the police and threatened to shoot the federal officers. She claimed that she had a loaded gun and that she would shoot anyone who tried to come inside the house. She also threatened to go outside and shoot ICE officers in the head. When the police dispatcher spoke with Eidivand, he confirmed that there were guns in the home.

    The following day, June 22, 2025, agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and officers from ICE ERO executed a federal search warrant on the residence. Inside the home, agents found a loaded firearm on the kitchen counter and a second loaded firearm on a nightstand. Both Vartanniavartanians and Eidivand were arrested at the scene and taken into custody without further incident.

    A conviction for Alien in Possession of a Firearm carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, or both. A conviction for Threatening to Assault a Federal Officer carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, or both.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    HSI Phoenix, ICE, ERO, and the FBI’s Phoenix Office are conducting the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Addison Owen, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution.

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-25-00931-PHX-DGC
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-099_Eidivand, et al.

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Iranian National and Wife Federally Indicted After Wife Threatens to Shoot ICE Officers in Tempe

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – On June 24, 2025, a federal grand jury in Phoenix returned an indictment against Iranian national, Mehrzad Asadi Eidivand, 40, of Tempe, Arizona for Alien in Possession of a Firearm, and against his wife, Linet Vartanniavartanians, 37, a United States Citizen from Tempe, Arizona, for Threatening to Assault a Federal Officer.

    Documents filed in the case allege that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officers went to Eidivand and Vartanniavartanians’ Tempe residence on Saturday, June 21, 2025, to administratively arrest Eidivand for failing to comply with a 2013 removal order. Eidivand, an Iranian national, had challenged the removal order on several occasions, but the Board of Immigration Appeals denied those motions repeatedly. Despite the court order to return to his home country, Eidivand remained in the United States for over a decade.

    When ICE ERO officers arrived at the couple’s residence, they announced themselves and were answered by Vartanniavartanians, who refused to open the door and told the officers to return with a warrant. Shortly thereafter, Tempe Police officers arrived on the scene and told ICE ERO that Vartanniavartanians had called the police and threatened to shoot the federal officers. She claimed that she had a loaded gun and that she would shoot anyone who tried to come inside the house. She also threatened to go outside and shoot ICE officers in the head. When the police dispatcher spoke with Eidivand, he confirmed that there were guns in the home.

    The following day, June 22, 2025, agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and officers from ICE ERO executed a federal search warrant on the residence. Inside the home, agents found a loaded firearm on the kitchen counter and a second loaded firearm on a nightstand. Both Vartanniavartanians and Eidivand were arrested at the scene and taken into custody without further incident.

    A conviction for Alien in Possession of a Firearm carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, or both. A conviction for Threatening to Assault a Federal Officer carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, or both.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    HSI Phoenix, ICE, ERO, and the FBI’s Phoenix Office are conducting the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Addison Owen, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution.

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-25-00931-PHX-DGC
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-099_Eidivand, et al.

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: West Jordan Man Accused of Trafficking Cocaine in the District of Utah

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury returned and indictment today charging a Utah man with drug crimes after federal agents allegedly seized over 4,800 grams of field-tested positive cocaine during an executed search warrant.

    Evar Mahmood Hashim, 25, of West Jordan, Utah, was charged by complaint on June 12, 2025.

    According to court documents, beginning in May 2025, the Davis County Metro Narcotics Strike Force initiated a criminal investigation into members of a drug trafficking organization that was believed to be distributing large quantities of narcotics in Utah. During the investigation, agents identified a vehicle believed to be used by the organization to traffic the suspected narcotics. On June 10, 2025, a search warrant was executed on the vehicle, which was located and secured in Juab County, Utah. At this time, Hashim was the driver of the vehicle. During the search of the vehicle, agents seized approximately 4,836 grams of a white powder, which field-tested positive for cocaine. Hashim was taken into custody.

    Hashim is charged with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute. His initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for June 26, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in courtroom 8.4 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.

    Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated jointly by the Davis County Metro Narcotics Strike Force and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

    Special Assistant United States Attorney Kelsy Young of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

    An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: West Jordan Man Accused of Trafficking Cocaine in the District of Utah

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury returned and indictment today charging a Utah man with drug crimes after federal agents allegedly seized over 4,800 grams of field-tested positive cocaine during an executed search warrant.

    Evar Mahmood Hashim, 25, of West Jordan, Utah, was charged by complaint on June 12, 2025.

    According to court documents, beginning in May 2025, the Davis County Metro Narcotics Strike Force initiated a criminal investigation into members of a drug trafficking organization that was believed to be distributing large quantities of narcotics in Utah. During the investigation, agents identified a vehicle believed to be used by the organization to traffic the suspected narcotics. On June 10, 2025, a search warrant was executed on the vehicle, which was located and secured in Juab County, Utah. At this time, Hashim was the driver of the vehicle. During the search of the vehicle, agents seized approximately 4,836 grams of a white powder, which field-tested positive for cocaine. Hashim was taken into custody.

    Hashim is charged with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute. His initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for June 26, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in courtroom 8.4 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.

    Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated jointly by the Davis County Metro Narcotics Strike Force and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

    Special Assistant United States Attorney Kelsy Young of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

    An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • Operation Sindhu: 275 people, including 3 Nepalese citizens, evacuated from Iran, express gratitude to Indian govt

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A total of 275 people — 272 Indian nationals and three Nepalese citizens — arrived safely in New Delhi from Mashhad, Iran, on Thursday, as part of the Indian government’s ongoing Operation Sindhu.

    The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the total number of citizens repatriated from Iran under Operation Sindhu has now reached 3,426, amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

    Emotions ran high as relieved evacuees stepped back onto Indian soil.

    Sharing his experience, one Indian national told IANS, “We were in Mashhad. Five members of my family, including me, are very grateful to the Indian Embassy and the government of India for bringing us home safely. They did not leave us orphaned in a foreign country. No other country has done anything like this for its nationals.”

    He further recalled how embassy officials patiently waited and searched for missing passengers before departure.

    “A few people went missing, so the embassy officials even waited for two hours and searched for the missing. There is no one like our Indian government,” he added.

    Another evacuee told IANS, “I sincerely thank the Indian government and the Embassy of India. Ever since the war started in Tehran, they have been in contact with every Indian, guiding us on how to handle the situation, what the current conditions are, and what their evacuation and repatriation plans would be.”

    “I stand here with a heart full of gratitude and respect for the entire Indian Embassy and the Government of India for bringing us back home. I am truly thankful and will always remain grateful,” said another returnee, echoing the widespread appreciation among those evacuated.

    “We are deeply grateful to them for taking such care of their fellow countrymen, for thinking about their people back home. They realised that our people were far away and in distress, and they stood by us,” one more evacuee told IANS.

    Just a day earlier, on Wednesday, another flight carrying 296 Indians and four Nepalese nationals landed in India from Mashhad.

    With tensions continuing in the region, Operation Sindhu, the Iran leg of which is wrapping up, remains a lifeline for hundreds of stranded citizens.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Sixty-seven more police join the blue family

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Deputy Commissioner Tania Kura, members of the police executive and wing patron former police officer, Glenda Hughes congratulated the 67 graduating constables from Wing 385 today. 

    Also attending the graduation and presenting the prize to the top award winner was Minister of Police Hon Mark Mitchell.

    Families and friends celebrated the newly attested police officers at Te Rauparaha Arena, Porirua this afternoon acknowledging the successful completion of their initial training course. 

    There are some likeminded individuals in the wing with 13 of the graduates having family members currently working in the New Zealand police.

    Four of those thirteen graduates were inspired by their fathers who are all constabulary working in Waikato District. The four new officers will be working in Waikato alongside their dads.

    One proud father is Senior Constable Ross Moratti. “I’m honoured that Jordan decided to follow in my footsteps, he’s worked incredibly hard and will be a really amazing officer.”

    Newly attested Constable Jordan Moratti says “Growing up seeing my dad in police gave me some encouragement to do the same. I really want to help people and I needed a job that was inspiring and challenging – like policing is.”

    Six wing members have family serving in police services in other parts of the world and twelve recruits were born overseas. 

    Two of the three award winners have made New Zealand their home.

    Top award winner and winner of the Driver Training Award is Australian born Sophie Eskrigge. She put her study skills from university to good use, by capturing the top of wing prize.  Sophie has a diverse education ranging from marine science, and chemistry, to finance and accounting and is now studying for a post graduate degree in property practice. She can now add initial policing skills and criminal law to that list of achievements thanks to her successful recruit training.
    “Graduation is just the beginning. From here on, we must prove ourselves worthy every single day to the people we now serve.”

    Sophie will be based in Auckland City District.

    Second Top Award and winner of the Physical Training and Defensive Tactics Award is Constable Holly Stuart.  She is originally from the United Kingdom and previously worked for the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue service as a call handler, dispatcher, and on-call firefighter.  
    “College has taught me so much about myself as well as others. I’ve found new strengths and learnt from a very skilled bunch of instructors. The pride I feel from graduating after my 20 weeks and placing second overall in the wing, is an achievement that will stay with me for a lifetime. I’m so excited to start my journey in the community that I now call home here in Aotearoa.”

    Holly will be based in Central District.

    Leadership Award winner Constable David Afamasaga is a former Corrections Officer and Court Security Officer for the Department of Justice.  He’s also a former top sportsman and captained the Manu Samoa Rugy Sevens Team from 2017 to 2020 and 2022.  Like the other wing award winners David also won a second prize – the Firearms Award for wing 385.

    “I am truly honoured to receive this award, and be recognised by my peers and our sergeants, but I humbly take it on behalf of all my wing-mates. The hard work and dedication we’ve all put in to making it to our graduation day shows that everyone is a leader in their own right.”

    David will be working out of Counties Manukau District.

    Deployment:
    Tāmaki Makaurau a total of 23 and broken down as follows: Waitematā  9, Auckland District 1, Counties Manukau 13, Waikato  11, Bay of Plenty 9, Eastern 1, Central 3, Wellington 8, Tasman 1, Canterbury 3, Southern 8.
    The new constables will start their first week of duty in their Police districts from Monday 7 July 2025 and will continue their training on the job as probationary constables.

    All Awards: 
    Minister’s Award recognising top student and the Driver Training and Road Policing Practice Award: Constable Sophie Eskrigge posted to Counties Manukau District.
    Commissioner’s Award for Leadership and the Firearms Award: Constable David Afamasaga posted to Counties Manukau.
    Patron’s Award for second in wing recognising second top student and the Physical Training and Defensive Tactics Award: Constable Holly Stuart posted to Central District.

    Demographics:
    28.4 percent are female, 71.6 percent are male. New Zealand European make up 67.2 percent of the wing, with Māori 10.4 percent, Pasifika 6.0 percent, Asian 14.9 percent, Other 1.5 percent. 

    385 Wing Patron: Glenda Hughes:
    Glenda Hughes has had a multifaceted career in sports, law enforcement, media and public relations, and local and central government.
    Her athletic achievements as a Commonwealth Games shot put champion and captain of the New Zealand Athletics Team are paralleled by her years of service in the New Zealand Police, where she handled serious criminal investigations, including drug investigations and high-profile cases such as the Rainbow Warrior inquiry. She was on the frontline of the Springbok Tour and Bastion Point protests. 
    Beyond her police career, Glenda has made significant contributions in media as a consultant, journalist, and public relations expert who has trained New Zealand’s top athletes in media communications.
    She is the author of Looking for Trouble and has contributed to Last Man Standing by James Shepherd and Organized Deception: My Story by Sharon Armstrong, both focusing on the dangerous world of international drug trafficking.
    Her leadership roles include Independent Chairperson of the New Zealand Racing Board and the Racing Integrity Unit, a member of the New Zealand Parole Board, Trustee of KidsCan and Chair of Pet Refuge. These highlight her commitment to serving the community.
    Glenda’s academic background in sociology, criminology, and communications underscores her deep understanding of societal dynamics.
    Glenda values perseverance, integrity, compassion, and service. She credits her time in Police for her understanding of behaviours, motives, and options for handling various incidents. She believes Police offers a strong foundation for career development and the camaraderie fosters many lifelong friendships.

    ENDS

    Watch out for our Ten One story coming soon with more images and stories.

    If you’re interested in joining police check out newcops.govt.nz

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: At least 38 killed by Israeli attacks in Gaza: sources

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

    Palestinians mourn a victim killed in an Israeli airstrike, at a hospital in Gaza City, on June 25, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    At least 38 Palestinians were killed on Wednesday across the Gaza Strip by Israeli gunfire and airstrikes, according to medical sources, as Israel’s military reported the deaths of seven soldiers in combat in the south of the enclave.

    Witnesses and local medics said Israeli forces opened fire on a crowd of Palestinians waiting near a U.S.-backed aid distribution point in the Netzarim corridor, in central Gaza. Al-Awda Hospital said it received 10 bodies, some unidentified, and treated 53 wounded from what it called a “direct targeting” of civilians waiting for food assistance.

    In a separate incident, one person was killed and six others wounded by Israeli gunfire in the Al-Shakoush area, north of Rafah in southern Gaza, medical sources said.

    Gaza’s civil defense said seven members of a single family, including women and children, were killed when an Israeli airstrike hit a building at a gas station in al-Shuja’iyya, east of Gaza City. It reported further casualties in strikes on Deir al-Balah, the al-Nuseirat refugee camp, and Jabalia, with at least 15 dead and others missing.

    Another strike west of Gaza City, near the Ansar Government Complex, killed five people, including a woman and a child, and wounded several others, according to the civil defense.

    There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military on the reported incidents.

    Separately, the Israeli army said seven soldiers were killed on Tuesday when an armored vehicle was hit by an explosive device during combat in southern Gaza.

    Israel resumed its military campaign in the enclave on March 18. Since then, 5,759 Palestinians have been killed and 19,807 others wounded, according to Gaza’s health authorities. The overall death toll since the war began in October 2023 has risen to 56,077, with 131,848 others injured, they said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Central Asian media praises modern agriculture in Xinjiang

    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

    BEIJING, June 26 (Xinhua) — “The enormous scientific and technological power behind a single grain is amazing. It is the ‘golden key’ to food security. We applaud Xinjiang’s agriculture!” Arkady Gladilov, deputy editor-in-chief of the Slovo Kyrgyzstana newspaper, said Tuesday in Changji City, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

    On Tuesday, 23 media representatives from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkey visited Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to see and appreciate the achievements of local modern agriculture, according to the Zhongxinshe News Agency (China News).

    The delegation visited the innovative laboratory of the company “Jiushenghe Seed Industry Co., Ltd.”, where they got acquainted with the selection capabilities of the enterprise. The journalists visited the Research and Development Center in the field of seed production and inspected modern processing workshops, witnessing the process of breeding high-quality varieties of corn, wheat, cotton and the operation of fully automated production lines.

    According to the company’s director, relying on the advantages of the national breeding base in Changji, the enterprise has established cooperation in demonstrating and promoting seeds of elite varieties with a number of Central Asian countries, which in turn will effectively contribute to increasing the yield of local agricultural crops per unit area.

    A. Gladilov noted that Xinjiang is accelerating the implementation of agricultural science achievements and is working to create a unified platform for agro-technological developments focused on Central Asian countries. This will contribute to the modernization of the agro-industrial complex of Central Asian states, and the future in this direction is promising.

    The media also visited the Xinjiang Agricultural Expo Zone, where they were immersed in a realistic picture of the “farm of the future.” In the pavilions, they saw a bountiful harvest of tomatoes grown using hydroponic technology, and also watched how the Internet of Things systems monitored and automatically adjusted lighting, temperature, humidity, water and fertilizer supply in greenhouses in real time.

    The delegation representatives unanimously stated that the scale of implementation and effectiveness of smart agriculture in Xinjiang exceeded expectations. This experience is extremely important for the transformation of Central Asian farms. Xinjiang is not only a key corridor linking China with Central Asia, but also an important partner in promoting the region’s agricultural modernization. Xinjiang’s advanced practices, from key breeding technologies to intelligent field management models, deserve in-depth study. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Indian stock market opens higher, all eyes on US reciprocal tariff deadline

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The domestic benchmark indices opened higher on Thursday amid mixed global cues, as buying was seen in the metal, auto, and financial services sectors in early trade.

    At around 9:26 a.m., the Sensex was trading 239.27 points, or 0.29 per cent, higher at 82,994.78, while the Nifty added 84.20 points, or 0.33 per cent, to reach 25,328.95.

    According to analysts, with a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, global markets are in risk-on mode. However, since the reciprocal tariff issue remains unresolved, a sustained rally may be difficult.

    Nifty Bank was up 41.50 points, or 0.07 per cent, at 56,662.65 in early trade. The Nifty Midcap 100 index was trading at 58,993.20 after gaining 111.50 points, or 0.19 per cent. The Nifty Smallcap 100 index stood at 18,785.05, up 57.20 points, or 0.31 per cent.

    Technically, the price action also traced an inside day, indicating that the possibility of a large, single-day trending move is rising, experts said.

    Meanwhile, in the Sensex pack, BEL, Eternal, Tata Motors, PowerGrid, Maruti Suzuki, Tata Steel, L&T, Bajaj Finserv, Bharti Airtel, and Titan were the top gainers. On the other hand, Tech Mahindra, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Trent, and ICICI Bank were among the top losers.

    Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) were net sellers on June 25, offloading equities worth ₹2,427.74 crore. Meanwhile, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) remained buyers, purchasing equities worth ₹2,372.96 crore.

    In the Asian markets, Japan, China, Bangkok, and Jakarta were trading in the green, whereas Seoul and Hong Kong were in the red.

    In the previous trading session, the Dow Jones in the US closed at 42,982.43, down 106.59 points, or 0.25 per cent. The S&P 500 ended with a slight loss of 0.02 points at 6,092.16, while the Nasdaq closed at 19,973.55, up 61.02 points, or 0.31 per cent.

    —IANS

  • Trump says US to hold nuclear talks with Iran next week

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he would likely seek a commitment from Iran to end its nuclear ambitions at talks next week and credited U.S. strikes on Iran with bringing a swift end to the war between Israel and Tehran.

    Trump said his decision to unleash huge bunker-busting bombs in Sunday’s attack had devastated Iran’s nuclear program and called the outcome “a victory for everybody”.

    “It was very severe. It was obliteration,” he said, shrugging off an initial assessment by the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency that Iran’s path to building a nuclear weapon may have been set back only by months.

    Meanwhile, anxious Iranians and Israelis sought to resume normal life after 12 days of the most intense confrontation ever between the two foes and a ceasefire that took effect Tuesday.

    Speaking in The Hague where he attended a NATO summit on Wednesday, Trump said he did not see Iran again engaging in nuclear weapons development. Tehran has for decades denied accusations by Western leaders that it is seeking nuclear arms.

    “We’re going to talk to them next week, with Iran. We may sign an agreement. I don’t know. To me, I don’t think it’s that necessary,” Trump said.

    “I’ll tell you, the last thing they want to do is enrich anything right now. They want to recover,” he said, referring to Western accusations that Iran has been enriching uranium to near-weapons-grade purity.

    Later on Wednesday, U.S. Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe said in a statement that the U.S. air strikes had “severely damaged” Iran’s nuclear program, but he stopped short of declaring that the program had been destroyed.

    The agency confirmed a “body of credible evidence” that several key Iranian facilities were destroyed and would take years to rebuild, he said.

    Israel’s nuclear agency assessed the strikes had “set back Iran’s ability to develop nuclear weapons by many years”. The White House also circulated the Israeli assessment, although Trump said he was not relying on Israeli intelligence.

    Trump said he was confident Tehran would pursue a diplomatic path towards reconciliation. The president gave no details on the discussions next week such as the venue and participants.

    If Iran tried to rebuild its nuclear programme, “we won’t let that happen. Number one, militarily we won’t,” he said, adding that he thought “we’ll end up having something of a relationship with Iran” to resolve the issue.

    The head of the U.N.’s nuclear watchdog, Rafael Grossi, dismissed what he called the “hourglass approach” of assessing damage to Iran’s nuclear programme in terms of months needed to rebuild as besides the point for an issue that needed a long-term solution.

    “In any case, the technological knowledge is there and the industrial capacity is there. That, no one can deny. So we need to work together with them,” he said. His priority was returning international inspectors to Iranian nuclear sites, which he said was the only way to find out precisely what state they were in.

    IRAN PRESIDENT HINTS AT DOMESTIC REFORMS

    Israel’s bombing campaign, launched with a surprise attack on June 13, wiped out the top echelon of Iran’s military leadership and killed leading nuclear scientists. Iran responded with missiles that pierced Israel’s defences in large numbers for the first time.

    Iranian authorities said 627 people were killed and nearly 5,000 injured in Iran, where the extent of the damage could not be independently confirmed because of tight restrictions on media. Twenty-eight people were killed in Israel.

    Israel claimed to have achieved its goals of destroying Iran’s nuclear sites and missiles; Iran claimed to have forced the end of the war by penetrating Israeli defences.

    Israel’s demonstration that it could target Iran’s senior leadership seemingly at will posed perhaps the biggest challenge yet for Iran’s clerical rulers, at a critical juncture when they must find a successor for Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, now 86 and in power for 36 years.

    Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, a relative moderate elected last year in a challenge to years of dominance by hardliners, said it could result in reform.

    “This war and the empathy that it fostered between the people and officials is an opportunity to change the outlook of management and the behaviour of officials so that they can create unity,” he said in a statement carried by state media.

    Still, Iran’s authorities moved swiftly to demonstrate their control. The judiciary announced the execution of three men on Wednesday convicted of collaborating with Israel’s Mossad spy agency and smuggling equipment used in an assassination. Iran had arrested 700 people accused of ties with Israel during the conflict, the state-affiliated Nournews reported.

    During the war, both Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Trump publicly suggested that it could end with the toppling of Iran’s entire system of clerical rule, established in its 1979 revolution.

    But after the ceasefire, Trump said he did not want to see “regime change” in Iran, which he said would bring chaos at a time when he wanted the situation to settle down.

    RELIEF, APPREHENSION, EXHAUSTION

    In both Iran and Israel, residents expressed relief at the end of the fighting, but also apprehension.

    “We came back after the ceasefire was announced. People are relieved that the war has stopped, but there’s a lot of uncertainty about what comes next,” said Farah, 67, who returned to Tehran from nearby Lavasan, where she had fled to escape Israeli bombing.

    In Tel Aviv, Rony Hoter-Ishay Meyer, 38, said the war’s end brought mixed emotions: relief that children could return to school and normal life resume, but exhaustion from the stress.

    “Those past two weeks were catastrophic in Israel, and we are very much exhausted and we need to get back to our normal energy.”

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Kelly releases statement on President Trump’s decision to bomb Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Robin Kelly IL

    MATTESON, ILL. — U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) released the following statement after President Donald Trump announced the U.S. military strike against Iran:

    “President Trump’s decision to bomb Iran will not lead to peace but rather cause more violence, destruction, and conflict in the Middle East. Iran can never be allowed nuclear weapons, but it was President Trump’s decision to break the Iran Nuclear Deal that allowed Iran to speed up their enrichment program, making us and our allies less safe. Instead of using diplomacy to lower temperatures, President Trump has escalated the situation, which will further destabilize the region and cause  repercussions here at home and across the globe. The Trump Administration must come to Congress for an Authorization for Use of Military Force.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • Trump calls for Israeli PM’s trial to be cancelled

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday called for Israel to pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or cancel his corruption trial, saying the U.S. would save him like it did his country.

    Netanyahu was indicted in 2019 in Israel on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust – all of which Netanyahu denies. The trial began in 2020 and involves three criminal cases. He has pleaded not guilty.

    “Bibi Netanyahu’s trial should be CANCELLED, IMMEDIATELY, or a Pardon given to a Great Hero, who has done so much for the State (of Israel),” Trump wrote on Truth Social, adding that he had learned that Netanyahu was due to appear in court on Monday.

    Israeli media have reported that cross-examination of Netanyahu began on June 3 in a Tel Aviv court and was expected to take about a year to complete.

    Israeli President Issac Herzog has the power to pardon Netanyahu but has been quoted by Israeli media as saying that a pardon is “not currently on the table.” He also said that “no such request had been made,” according to the reports.

    Trump extolled Netanyahu as a “warrior” but also said in his post: “It was the United States of America that saved Israel, and now it is going to be the United States of America that saves Bibi Netanyahu.”

    That appeared to be a reference to U.S. involvement and support for Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear program.

    It was unclear if Trump meant the U.S. could do anything to aid Netanyahu in his legal battle.

    The Republican president described the case against the Israeli leader as a “witch hunt,” a term Trump has frequently applied to U.S. attempts to prosecute him.

    The warm words contrasted with the rare rebuke he issued on Tuesday over Israel’s post-ceasefire strikes on Iran.

    “Israel, as soon as we made the deal, they came out and they dropped a load of bombs, the likes of which I’ve never seen before. The biggest load that we’ve seen. I’m not happy with Israel,” he told reporters.

    Iran and Israel, he added, had been fighting “so long and so hard that they don’t know what the fuck they’re doing.”

    (Reuters)

  • Mamdani’s stunning upset in New York’s Democratic mayoral primary carries risks, rewards for national Democrats

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Self-described democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani’s unexpected upset in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary on Tuesday exhilarated progressive activists, who had banded together to prevent the more moderate former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo from triumphing.

    But the surprise outcome also generated excitement from a very different group of people: national Republicans.

    Soon after it became clear that Mamdani, a 33-year-old state lawmaker, was likely to prevail, Republican Vice President JD Vance sent congratulations on social media to the “new leader of the Democratic Party.” The Republican’s congressional campaign arm called him an “antisemitic socialist radical” and promised to tie him to every vulnerable Democrat in next year’s midterm elections.

    And on Wednesday, Republican President Donald Trump – a native New Yorker – piled on, writing on social media, “It’s finally happened, the Democrats have crossed the line. Zohran Mamdani, a 100% Communist Lunatic, has just won the Dem Primary, and is on his way to becoming Mayor.”

    The reactions underscore both the risks and the rewards for the Democratic Party – still trying to find its footing five months into Trump’s term – in having an unabashed left-wing nominee running in the country’s biggest city this fall.

    Mamdani’s campaign, which drew plaudits for its cheery tone and clever viral videos, could help energize young voters, a demographic that Democrats are desperate to reach in 2026 and beyond. His rise from a virtual unknown was fueled by a relentless focus on affordability, an issue Democrats struggled to address during last year’s presidential race.

    “Cost of living is the issue of our time,” Neera Tanden, the chief executive of Democratic think tank Center for American Progress wrote on X in response to Mamdani’s win. “It’s the through line animating all politics. Smart political leaders respond to it.”

    His history-making candidacy – Mamdani, born in Uganda to Indian parents, would be the city’s first Muslim and Indian American mayor – could also drive engagement among Asian and especially Muslim voters, some of whom soured on the party after the Biden administration’s support for Israel’s war in Gaza.

    “These elections aren’t about left, right or center, they’re about whether you’re a change to the status quo. People don’t want more of the same, they want someone who plays a different game,” said Democratic strategist Jesse Ferguson.

    But Mamdani’s criticism of Israel and his democratic socialism are also likely to show up frequently in Republican attack ads. Much of the Democratic establishment had lined up behind Cuomo, including former President Bill Clinton, partly out of unease over Mamdani’s platform. Mamdani has repeatedly said he is not antisemitic.

    “I think he’s an easy target for Republicans who want to use scare tactics to talk about the Muslim mayor from New York City who’s uber-left,” said Patrick Egan, a political science professor at New York University. But Egan noted, Mamdani has also proven to be an adept politician.

    “When people get exposed to this guy, they tend to like him,” he said.

    NO APOLOGY

    Basil Smikle, a political analyst and professor at Columbia University’s School of Professional Studies, said heavy-handed attacks on Mamdani could backfire by energizing “a lot of the Democratic voters to want to push more against Trump.”

    “I don’t think it hurts Democrats in the long run,” he said. “I actually think it helps them.”

    For his part, Mamdani seemed ready to embrace his role as a party leader, telling supporters in his victory speech that he would govern the city “as a model for the Democratic Party – a party where we fight for working people with no apology.” He vowed to use his mayoral power to “reject Donald Trump’s fascism.”

    Democratic voters say they want a new generation of leaders and a party that concentrates on economic issues, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll earlier this month.

    “The Democratic Party is trying to figure itself out,” said Christina Greer, a political science professor at Fordham University in New York.

    While Mamdani enters the general election as the favorite in a city dominated by Democrats, the race is more unsettled than usual.

    Mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat, is running as an independent after his popularity plummeted following his indictment on corruption charges and the subsequent decision by Trump’s Justice Department to drop the case. Cuomo also retains the ability to run as an independent, though he has not yet decided whether to do so.

    The Republican candidate is Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels. Jim Walden, a former federal prosecutor, is running as an independent, as well.

    The primary had become a two-man race by Election Day between Mamdani and Cuomo, echoing other Democratic nominating contests in which the party’s establishment and liberal wings have wrestled for power. But it was also a generational clash between Mamdani and Cuomo, the 67-year-old scion of a New York political family.

    That said, Cuomo carried plenty of personal baggage, four years after he resigned the governorship amid allegations of sexual harassment, which he has denied.

    “Some people were voting for Mamdani to express their displeasure for Cuomo,” Greer said.

    Mamdani’s unlikely ascension bore some of the same hallmarks of similar rises for two other democratic socialists, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, both of whom endorsed his campaign.

    Sanders, an independent, emerged as a leading Democratic presidential candidate in 2016 and 2020, while Ocasio-Cortez pulled off an upset in 2018 by defeating a longtime incumbent Democrat.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israeli Mossad chief says Iran operation to continue

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    JERUSALEM, June 26 (Xinhua) — Israeli intelligence chief Mossad David Barnea said in a video released by the agency on Wednesday that the organization will continue its activities in Iran.

    In the video, D. Barnea addresses the staff of the task force on Tuesday, just hours after the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran came into effect.

    “We will continue to closely monitor all of Iran’s projects, which we already know about in great detail,” he said.

    He noted that “through precise intelligence, advanced technology and unimaginable combat capabilities, we helped the Air Force disrupt Iran’s nuclear program, establish air superiority over Iran and reduce the missile threat, thereby ensuring the safety of Israeli citizens.”

    In the video, she also thanked the US Central Intelligence Agency “for our joint work.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHNEIDER STATEMENT ON US STRIKE ON IRAN NUCLEAR FACILITIES

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

    WASHINGTON – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10) released the following statement on June 22, 2025

    As we wait for more details on this evening’s U.S. actions against Iran’s nuclear sites in Natanz, Isfahan, and most significantly, Fordow, I proudly thank the brave service members who put their lives on the line for our defense and security. America and the world are more secure because of their success. I am grateful all have safely returned, and I pray for the safety of our 40,000 U.S. troops, our many diplomats and the thousands of U.S. citizens living, working and visiting the region.

    Since the Iranian revolution in 1979, the regime in Tehran has effectively waged an undeclared war on the United States, Israel, and the broader West. A nuclear armed Iran poses a grave and unacceptable threat to the United States, and is an existential threat to Israel and every Arab state in the Gulf.

    Iran must never have a nuclear weapon. Ever.

    A diplomatic path to reversing Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and permanently dismantling Iran’s nuclear development programs was preferable to war. Negotiations were recently restarted, but Iran dug in its heels at the recent talks in Italy, in Oman, and again this week in Switzerland. Iran gave every signal that diplomacy in this moment was a dead end.

    I still hope that, after tonight’s actions, Iran accepts that it will never have a nuclear weapon and returns in good faith to the negotiating table.

    While Iran’s nuclear ambitions demand a strategic, serious and coordinated response, it remains the sole Constitutional authority of Congress—not the President—to take our nation into war. That prerogative exists not only as a matter of law, but as a safeguard. The Administration must immediately engage with Congress and urgently provide a bipartisan, classified briefing so we can assess the intelligence, legal justifications, objectives, and consequences of this action.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHNEIDER, BILIRAKIS OPPOSE DOWNGRADE OF EU-ISRAEL AGREEMENT

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

    WASHINGTON – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Abraham Accords Caucus, with Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), sent a bipartisan letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and High Representative Kaja Kallas expressing deep concern over proposals to suspend or downgrade the European Union’s Association Agreement with Israel.

    In the letter, the Members warned that such a move would “fracture our collective response to October 7th — the most brutal assault on the Jewish people since the Holocaust — and risk emboldening the very actors who threaten the democratic world.”

    Following the receipt of the letter, the European Commission delayed a scheduled discussion about a possible downgrade.

    “Now is the time for unity among democratic allies, not retreat,” said Congressman Schneider. “Downgrading ties with Israel while Hamas continues to hold hostages and Iran advances its nuclear program sends the wrong message to our adversaries. We must stand together to defend our shared values and regional stability.”

    “The European Commission’s potential decision to distance itself from Israel sends the wrong message at a time when unity among democratic allies is more critical than ever. Walking away from one of the region’s strongest democratic partners undermines our shared values and emboldens those who oppose peace and stability,” noted Congressman Bilirakis.  

    The Members emphasized that the EU-Israel relationship delivers critical benefits to both parties, including collaboration on science, technology, and security. “This relationship has saved lives on both sides of the Mediterranean,” the letter reads. “It should be strengthened, not discarded.”

    The letter follows Israel’s recent defensive strike against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, taken after the IAEA censured Iran for systematic violations of its non-proliferation commitments, and the U.S.’s pre-emptive strike on three Iranian nuclear sites. The Members urged EU leaders to remain engaged with Israel and reject efforts to politicize the agreement, stating: “The only path to meaningful Palestinian self-determination runs through continued diplomacy, regional cooperation, and principled pressure on Hamas and its backers—not isolation of Israel.”

    Full text of the letter is available here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHNEIDER RETURNS FROM MIDDLE EAST TRIP FOCUSED ON ABRAHAM ACCORDS AMID ISRAEL – IRAN CONFLICT

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Abraham Accords Caucus, returned on Thursday from a five-day bipartisan congressional delegation to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates. Rep. Schneider was joined on the trip by Reps. Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Zach Nunn (IA-03), and Don Bacon (NE-02). The trip was organized and sponsored by the N7 Initiative, a partnership between the Atlantic Council and the Jeffrey M. Talpins Foundation which is focused on advancing US interests by strengthening cooperation between the United States, Israel, and Arab and Muslim countries. 

    Representative Schneider leads delegation in meeting in Bahrain with his Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa

    “This visit, held during a moment of regional crisis and uncertainty, underscored our commitment to security, prosperity and peace,” said Rep. Schneider. “The Abraham Accords are not just a historic diplomatic achievement—they are the best framework for a more integrated and secure Middle East. In the face of nefarious Iranian activity across the region, efforts to deepen and expand the Abraham Accord partnerships are more important than ever.”

    The delegation visited Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and UAE. The delegation was originally scheduled to visit Israel. After the closure of the airport in Israel, the Members planned to travel to Jordan and then drive to Jerusalem to meet with Israeli leaders. Unfortunately they were not able to proceed with the Israel portion of the trip. 

    “While the start of Israel’s strikes on Iran’s nuclear program and military infrastructure – and Iran’s retaliatory ballistic missile attacks on Israel – began mere hours before our delegation was scheduled to land in Saudi Arabia, we never considered canceling this trip,” continued Rep. Schneider. “Especially at this moment, it is critical the US shows support for our allies and commitment to bringing sustained peace, prosperity, and stability to the Middle East.”

    Despite the rapidly shifting security environment, the delegation successfully engaged with senior government officials and private sector leaders, including a conference call with Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa’ar, to discuss how to strengthen and expand the normalization efforts, building on the Abraham Accords and looking beyond the shadows of ongoing regional conflicts. Discussions focused on practical ways to expand normalization, including people-to-people ties, technology cooperation, regional infrastructure, and defense collaboration. 

    Representatives Nunn, Schneider, Bacon and Panetta at the al Diriyah excavation in Riyadh

    In Bahrain, Representative Schneider meets with Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani

    Representative Schneider and his wife Julie visit the synagogue 
    at the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi, UAE

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHNEIDER STATEMENT ON ISRAEL STRIKE ON IRAN

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

    At approximately 3:00 a.m. local time, 7:00 p.m. in Illinois, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a preemptive military strike targeting Iran’s nuclear program and key personnel. Israel has struck more than 300 targets, including nuclear sites, air defenses, and IRGC headquarters This may mark the beginning of a wider conflict in the Middle East. Though we do not yet know the full implications for the United States, our partners, or the global economy, one thing must be clear: America stands with Israel.

    Iran’s long record of malign behavior—its threats to wipe Israel off the map, its support for Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis—makes clear why Israel assessed that it could not wait. A nuclear-armed Iran would pose an unacceptable threat not only to Israel but to the entire world.

    Israel destroyed Iraq’s nuclear reactor in 1981, and Syria’s in 2007. Later events proved the wisdom of Israel’s actions and benefited the region and the world. I am confident, with Iran on the brink of weaponization, the world will again be grateful that Israel acted to prevent catastrophe.

    Just last month, the International Atomic Energy Agency released a comprehensive report documenting Iran’s extensive violations of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Rather than correct course, Iran doubled down, announcing it would accelerate enrichment and stonewall international inspectors. On Wednesday, the IAEA formally censured Iran. Tehran responded with more threats.

    In moments like this, American leadership matters. The US stood with Israel in 2023 when it was attacked by Hamas and Hezbollah, and then again in 2024 when Iran launched hundreds of drones, cruise and ballistic missiles. We must do so again today—with resolve, with clarity, and with the unity that defines our most serious moments.

    I believe in the strength of the U.S. – Israel alliance. I am grateful for the sacrifice and bravery of the men and women of the United States armed forces and pray for their success and safety. I am immensely proud that every enlisted sailor in our Navy begins their service at Naval Station Great Lakes in my district, where they learn what to do on days like this. I know they are fully prepared precisely for this moment.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Two ISIS militants killed in northern Iraq

    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

    BAGHDAD, June 26 (Xinhua) — Two militants of the Islamic State (IS) group were killed on Wednesday during a military operation in northern Iraq, the Iraqi counter-terrorism service said in a statement.

    Acting on intelligence, counter-terrorism forces ambushed militants in a remote area of Kirkuk province.

    The counter-terrorism service will continue to fight terrorism in all corners of Iraq, the statement said.

    While Iraq declared victory over ISIS in 2017, remnants of the group continue to carry out attacks on security forces and civilians in cities, deserts and remote areas. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Moolenaar Statement on American Strikes on Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

    Headline: Moolenaar Statement on American Strikes on Iran

    Congressman John Moolenaar released the following statement on the American strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities:

    “President Trump has been consistent. A nuclear Iran poses a threat to our nation, our military personnel, and our allies in the region. His decision to strike Iran is necessary to keep our nation and our allies safe, and ensure the number one sponsor of terrorism does not develop nuclear weapons.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Oil shocks in the 1970s drove rapid changes in transport. It could happen again if Middle East tensions continue

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hussein Dia, Professor of Future Urban Mobility, Swinburne University of Technology

    The Image Bank/Getty

    As the world watches the US–Iran situation with concern, the ripple effect from these events are reaching global oil supply chains – and exposing their fragility.

    If Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz as it is considering, it would restrict the global oil trade and trigger energy chaos.

    Petrol in some Australian cities could hit A$2.50 a litre according to some economists. As global instability worsens, other experts warn price spikes are increasingly likely.

    What would happen next? There is a precedent: the oil shocks of the 1970s, when oil prices quadrupled. The shock drove rapid change, from more efficient cars to sudden interest in alternative energy sources. This time, motorists would likely switch to electric vehicles.

    If this crisis continues or if another one flares up, it could mark a turning point in Australia’s long dependence on foreign oil.

    What would an oil shock mean?

    Australia currently imports 80% of its liquid fuels, the highest level on record. If the flow of oil stopped, we would have about 50 days worth in storage before we ran out.

    Our cars, buses, trucks and planes run overwhelmingly on petrol and diesel. Almost three-quarters (74%) of these liquid fuels are used in transport, with road transport accounting for more than half (54%) of all liquid fuels. Australia is highly exposed to global supply shocks.

    The best available option to reduce dependence on oil imports is to electrify transport.

    How does Australia compare on EVs?

    EV uptake in Australia continues to lag behind global leaders. In 2024, EVs accounted for 9.65% of new car sales in Australia, up from 8.45% in 2023.

    In the first quarter of 2025, EVs were 6.3% of new car sales, a decline from 7.4% in the final quarter of 2024.

    Norway remains the global leader, with battery-electric passenger cars making up 88.9% of sales in 2024. The United Kingdom also saw significant growth – EVs hit almost 20% of new car registrations in 2024.

    In China, EVs made up 40.9% of new car sales in 2024. The 12.87 million cars sold represent three-quarters of total EV sales worldwide.

    One reason for Australia’s sluggishness is a lack of reliable public chargers. While charging infrastructure is expanding, large parts of regional Australia still lack reliable access to EV charging.

    Until recently, Australia’s fuel efficiency standards were among the weakest in the OECD. Earlier this year, the government’s new standards came into force. These are expected to boost EV uptake.

    Could global tensions trigger faster action?

    If history is any guide, oil shocks lead to long-term change.

    The 1970s oil shocks triggered waves of energy reform.

    When global oil prices quadrupled in 1973–74, many nations were forced to reconsider where they got their energy. A few years later, the 1979 Iranian Revolution caused another major supply disruption, sending oil prices soaring and pushing much of the world into recession.

    Huge increases in oil prices drove people to look for alternatives during the 1970s oil shocks.
    Everett Collection/Shutterstock

    These shocks drove the formation of the International Energy Agency in 1974, spurred alternative energy investment and led to advances in fuel-efficiency standards.

    Much more recently, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine pushed the European Union to face up to its reliance on Russian gas and find alternatives by importing gas from different countries and accelerating the clean energy shift.

    Clearly, energy shocks can be catalysts for long-term structural change in how we produce and consume energy.

    The new crisis could do the same, but only if policy catches up.

    If fuel prices shot up and stayed there, consumer behaviour would begin to shift. People would drive less and seek alternate forms of transport. Over time, more would look for better ways to get around.

    But without stronger support such as incentives, infrastructure and fuel security planning, shifting consumer preferences could be too slow to matter.

    A clean-energy future is more secure

    Cutting oil dependency through electrification isn’t just good for the climate. It’s also a hedge against future price shocks and supply disruptions.

    Transport is now Australia’s third-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. Now that emissions are falling in the electricity sector, transport will be the highest emitting sector emissions source as soon as 2030.

    Building a cleaner transport system also means building a more resilient one. Charging EVs on locally produced renewable power cuts our exposure to global oil markets. So do biofuels, better public transport and smarter urban planning.

    Improving domestic energy resilience isn’t just about climate targets. It’s about economic stability and national security. Clean local energy sources reduce vulnerability to events beyond our control.

    What can we learn from China?

    China offers a compelling case study. The nation of 1.4 billion faces real oil security challenges. In response, Beijing has spent the past decade building a domestic clean energy ecosystem to reduce oil dependency and cut emissions.

    This is now bearing fruit. Last year, China’s oil imports had the first sustained fall in nearly two decades. Crude oil imports fell 1.5%, while oil refinery activity also fell due to lower demand.

    China’s rapid uptake of EVs has clear energy security benefits.
    pim pic/Shutterstock

    China’s green energy transition was driven by coordinated policy, industrial investment and public support for clean transport.

    China’s rapid shift to EVs and clean energy shows how long-term planning and targeted investment can pay off on climate and energy security.

    What we do next matters

    The rolling crises of 2025 present Australian policymakers a rare alignment of interests. What’s good for the climate, for consumers and for national security may now be the same thing.

    Real change will require more than sustained high petrol prices. It demands political will, targeted investment and a long-term vision for clean, resilient transport.

    Doing nothing has a real cost – not just in what we pay at the service station, but in how vulnerable we remain to events a long way away.

    Hussein Dia receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the iMOVE Australia Cooperative Research Centre, Transport for New South Wales, Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, and Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.

    – ref. Oil shocks in the 1970s drove rapid changes in transport. It could happen again if Middle East tensions continue – https://theconversation.com/oil-shocks-in-the-1970s-drove-rapid-changes-in-transport-it-could-happen-again-if-middle-east-tensions-continue-259670

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Mitigate Foreign Influence on U.S. Policymaking

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    Legislation Would Ban Former Government Employees from Lobbying for Countries of Concern

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jim Risch (R-ID), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) introduced the Conflict-free Leaving Employment and Activity Restrictions (CLEAR) Path Act, which would mitigate foreign influence on U.S. policymaking by prohibiting former government employees from lobbying on behalf of countries of concern:
    “Foreign adversaries with ill intentions should not wield influence on American policymaking, nor should they exploit our own citizens to intercede on their behalf,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This commonsense legislation would root out attempts of malign foreign interference and permanently ban former U.S. government employees from lobbying for countries of concern like Russia and China.”
    “Public trust in our democratic institutions has been eroding,” said Sen. Welch. “It’s vital we set higher standards against potential conflicts of interest for former government employees, particularly when it involves foreign adversaries that might be working to influence U.S. policy.”
    “It isn’t right for senior government officials to turn their public service experience into a payout from malign foreign governments,” said Sen. Risch. “This bill will help prevent corruption at the highest levels of our government, protect our national security, and ensure that our public servants do not abuse their power for the good of America’s adversaries.”
    “America is engaged in a clash of civilizations against kleptocrats, international criminals, and corrupt foreign nations that provide them safe harbor,” said Sen. Whitehouse. “Our adversaries exploit both secret and overt channels of influence to put their thumb on the scale of American policy.  I’m glad to join this bipartisan effort to prevent senior U.S. government officials from selling their expertise, access, and influence to shadowy foreign interests after they leave their jobs.”
    Background:
    With recent attempts by foreign actors to manipulate the U.S. political and governing processes in recent years, the Clear Path Act would seek to mitigate foreign malign influence in our political system by:
    Permanently banning agency heads, deputies, and Senate-confirmed employees from lobbying the executive and legislative branches on behalf of countries of concern, including China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and Cuba;
    And including a mechanism to add or remove countries of concern via a Senate Foreign Relations Committee and House Judiciary Committee joint resolution and with the concurrence of the U.S. Secretary of State and U.S. Attorney General.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Celebrates Passage of Bill to Protect Against Influence of Foreign Adversaries

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen Celebrates Passage of Bill to Protect Against Influence of Foreign Adversaries

     

    LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen celebrated passage of LB644, brought on his behalf by Senator Eliot Bostar. During the news conference, the Governor signed ceremonial copies of the bill. He officially signed the legislation into law on June 4.

    LB644 creates two new acts: the Foreign Adversary and Terrorist Agent Registration Act and the Crush Transnational Repression in Nebraska Act. Together, the acts are aimed at knowing who represents foreign adversaries within the state, curbing the information and/or data they may access or distribute, as well as providing protection against tactics that could be utilized by such organizations to cause undue influence or harm. Reporting requirements and penalties for violations are outlined within each Act.

    “Iran, China, Russia, North Korea, Cuba and the Maduro regime in Venezuela are all designated as foreign adversaries by the U.S. Government,” said Gov. Pillen. “They do not have our best interests at heart and as a result, we need to take appropriate steps to make sure that as a state, we are protected.”

    LB644 represents the latest of several executive and legislative actions that Gov. Pillen has authorized since taking office – all aimed at making sure state assets including infrastructure, land, technology and people are protected.

    “In today’s world, the means of getting access, of getting information, and crippling our most critical systems is easier than ever, which is why we are highly focused on addressing these issues,” continued Gov. Pillen.

    Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly, who serves as the state’s director of homeland security, called attention to several of the executive orders and bills signed by Gov. Pillen over the two previous legislative sessions — including LB683 and LB1301 — both brought Sen. Bostar. Those bills, respectively, address the protection of communications equipment and prohibit companies from adversarial countries bidding on state and local procurement contracts.

    “This year, primarily, the legislation is focused on guarding against foreign adversarial influence operations,” said Bostar. “We have some existing transparency requirements for those who would seek to influence policy in the state of Nebraska, but not enough. It doesn’t prohibit the circumvention of full transparency over interests that would be adversarial to the interests of Nebraskans.”

    Michael Lucci, founder and CEO of State Armor, pointed to Nebraska’s leadership among other states when it comes to addressing national security issues.

    “Resilience is the key topic for states to address — being ready for potential conflict, being ready to counter political warfare — this is a part of resilience,” noted Lucci.

    State Armor works alongside states to identify solutions to global security issues and was founded following the introduction of LB683 in 2023.

    “One of the first things when our organization was founded was to tell states, ‘do what Nebraska did.’  And we have not stopped conveying that message.”  

    Lucci commended Nebraska lawmakers on taking a bipartisan approach to legislation aimed at protecting the state and signaled it was the approach President Trump and other federal officials want to see.  

    Major General Craig Strong, adjutant general for the Nebraska National Guard and director of the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) remarked that in his dual role, homeland security was top of mind.

    “Our adversaries can reach out at us through many different methods, and not just through the traditional, conventional munitions, but by way of cyber-attack, satellite imagery and other vectors that we have to be aware of, such as drones,” said MG Strong. “This bill clearly helps us maintain the level of awareness and readiness that are important elements of our state emergency response plans, particularly as it relates to Nebraska’s homeland defense.

     Also attending today’s news conference and ceremonial bill signing were senators Beau Ballard, Barry DeKay and Brian Hardin.

     Links to executive orders, legislation and letters signed by Gov. Pillen to protect the state against foreign adversaries can be found below.

    https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/gov-pillen-joins-letter-calling-halt-foreign-land-grabs

    https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/governor-pillen-senators-push-back-against-foreign-adversaries

    https://governor.nebraska.gov/press/gov-pillen-senators-and-dept-ag-present-laws-protect-nebraska-foreign-adversaries-during-news

    https://governor.nebraska.gov/gov-pillen-signs-executive-order-banning-more-ccp-tech

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 26, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 26, 2025.

    ‘Do not eat’: what’s in those little desiccant sachets and how do they work?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kamil Zuber, Senior Industry Research Fellow, Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia towfiqu ahamed/Getty Images When you buy a new electronic appliance, shoes, medicines or even some food items, you often find a small paper sachet with the warning: “silica gel, do not eat”. What exactly

    ‘I’m dreading birthing in such a system’: what Indigenous women globally think of birth care and what they’d like to see instead
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nina Sivertsen, Associate Professor, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University Pregnancy and having a baby can be a special time. And families want to feel safe and trust their maternity care. But when we reviewed the evidence, we found many Indigenous families globally face unfair

    Iran accuses US over ‘torpedoed diplomacy’ – passes bill to halt UN nuclear watchdog cooperation
    BEARING WITNESS: By Cole Martin in occupied Bethlehem Kia ora koutou, I’m a Kiwi journo in occupied Bethlehem, here’s a brief summary of today’s events across the Palestinian and Israeli territories from on the ground. At least 79 killed and 391 injured by Israeli forces in Gaza over the last 24 hours, including 33 killed

    Parenthood or podium? It’s time Australian athletes had the support to choose both
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jasmine Titova, PhD Candidate, CQUniversity Australia When tennis legend Serena Williams retired in 2022, she stated: If I were a guy, I wouldn’t be writing this because I’d be out there playing and winning while my wife was doing the physical labour of expanding our family. Many

    Papua New Guinea police blame overrun system for prison breakouts
    By Margot Staunton, RNZ Pacific senior journalist Police in Papua New Guinea say the country’s overrun courts and prisons are behind mass breakouts from police custody. Chief Superintendent Clement Dala made the comment after 13 detainees escaped on Tuesday in Simbu Province, including eight who were facing murder charges. Dala said an auxiliary policeman who

    Stable public housing in the first year of life boosts children’s wellbeing years down the track – new research
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jaimie Monk, Research Fellow, Motu Economic and Public Policy Research Phil Walter/Getty Images New Zealand’s unaffordable housing market means low-income families face big constraints on their accommodation options. This involves often accepting housing that is insecure, cold, damp or in unsuitable neighbourhoods. But little is known about

    From HAL 9000 to M3GAN: what film’s evil robots tell us about contemporary tech fears
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Daniel, Associate Lecturer in Communication, Western Sydney University © 2025 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Filmgoers have long been captivated by stories about robots. We are fascinated by their utopian promise, their superhuman intelligence and, in the case of the cyborg, their often uncanny resemblance to

    Yes, Victoria’s efforts to wean households off gas have been dialled back. But it’s still real progress
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Trivess Moore, Associate Professor in Property, Construction and Project Management, RMIT University MirageC/Getty On the question of gas, Victoria’s government faces pressure from many directions. The Bass Strait wells supplying Australia’s most gas-dependent state are running dry. Gas prices shot up in 2020 and have stayed high.

    From HAL 9000 to ME3AN: what film’s evil robots tell us about contemporary tech fears
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adam Daniel, Associate Lecturer in Communication, Western Sydney University © 2025 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. Filmgoers have long been captivated by stories about robots. We are fascinated by their utopian promise, their superhuman intelligence and, in the case of the cyborg, their often uncanny resemblance to

    Remote cave discovery shows ancient voyagers brought rice across 2,300km of Pacific Ocean
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hsiao-chun Hung, Senior Research Fellow, School of Culture, History & Language, Australian National University Ritidian beach, Guam. Hsiao-chun Hung In a new study published today in Science Advances, my colleagues and I have uncovered the earliest evidence of rice in the Pacific Islands – at an ancient

    500,000 Australians live with mental illness but don’t qualify for the NDIS. A damning new report says they need more support
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sebastian Rosenberg, Associate Professor, Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, and Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney stellalevi/Getty Half a million Australians are living with moderate to severe mental illness, but they don’t qualify for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and cannot access the support

    ‘I’m not going to give up’: how to help more disadvantaged young people go to uni and TAFE
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lucas Walsh, Professor and Director of the Centre for Youth Policy and Education Practice, Monash University Oliver Rossi/ Getty Images On Wednesday, Education Minister Jason Clare hailed an increase in the numbers of Australians starting a university degree. In 2024, there was a 3.7% increase in Australian

    New climate reporting rules start on July 1. Many companies are not ready for the change
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachel Baird, Senior Lecturer , University of Tasmania PaeGAG/Shutterstock A new financial year starts on July 1. For Australia’s large companies, that means new rules on climate-related disclosures come into force. These requirements are the culmination of years of planning to ensure companies disclose climate-related risks and

    Whose story is being told — and why? 4 questions museum visitors should ask themselves this school holidays
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Olli Hellmann, Associate Professor of Political Science, University of Waikato The winter school holidays will mean families across Aotearoa New Zealand will be looking for indoor activities to entertain children. With millions of visitors each year, museums focused on the country’s history will inevitably play host to

    Philly psychology students map out local landmarks and hidden destinations where they feel happiest
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Eric Zillmer, Professor of Neuropsychology, Drexel University Rittenhouse Square Park in Center City made it onto the Philly Happiness Map. Matthew Lovette/Jumping Rocks/Universal Images Group via Getty Images What makes you happy? Perhaps a good night’s sleep, or a wonderful meal with friends? I am the director

    Macron invites all New Caledonia stakeholders for Paris talks
    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk French President Emmanuel Macron has sent a formal invitation to “all New Caledonia stakeholders” for talks in Paris on the French Pacific territory’s political and economic future to be held on July 2. The confirmation came on Thursday in the form of a letter sent individually

    Opposition starts on challenge of crafting (yet another) energy policy
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The opposition is commencing the challenging task of framing a new energy policy, including deciding whether to stick by its commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. Liberal leader Sussan Ley, appearing at the National Press Club, announced a Coalition

    Election flows reveal nearly 90% of Greens preferenced Labor ahead of Coalition
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne Minor party preference flows for the federal election have been released, with Labor winning Greens preferences by 88.2–11.8, while the Coalition won One Nation preferences by 74.5–24.5.

    Australia’s native bees struggled after the Black Summer fires – but a world-first solution brought them buzzing back
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kit Prendergast, Postdoctoral Researcher, Pollination Ecology, University of Southern Queensland Kit Prendergast (@bee.babette_performer) After a devastating bushfire, efforts to help nature recover typically focus on vertebrates and plants. Yet extreme fires can threaten insects, too. After the Black Summer fires of 2019–20, I embarked on world-first research

    Wild swings in the oil price make the Reserve Bank’s job harder
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Head, Canberra School of Government, University of Canberra It looks, at least for now, as though tensions in the Middle East are easing somewhat. It appears much less likely Iran will try to close the Strait of Hormuz, through which flows about a fifth of

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –