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Category: Technology

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin, Murkowski Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Our Shoreline Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) introduced bipartisan legislation, the Digital Coast Act, to help coastal communities better prepare for storms, cope with varying water levels, and plan for future development. The bill reauthorizes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Digital Coast Program, which Baldwin and Murkowski previously spearheaded to reestablish the program in 2020.
    “The Great Lakes are essential to the Wisconsin way of life and our economy, but make no mistake – they face some serious and unique challenges, and our local communities need tools and information to address them, keep families safe, and support our local businesses,” said Senator Baldwin. “I am proud to once again work with my Democratic and Republican colleagues to support our local coastal communities and ensure they have the resources and data they need to prepare for disasters, keep our water clean and safe, and make smart planning decisions for the future.”
    “As we confront the escalating impacts of climate change, it is crucial our coastal communities remain equipped with the tools and data they need to adapt and thrive,” said Senator Murkowski. “The Digital Coast Program has proven to be a vital resource in this effort, providing essential information and support for our local leaders to make informed decisions.”
    NOAA currently assembles and hosts the Digital Coast Project, a collaborative online database of the most up-to-date coastal information and makes it available to both the public and private sectors. Digital Coast also provides tools for coastal communities to decipher and use the high-tech mapping data to make accurate decisions and smart investments in coastal communities.
    The Digital Coast Act reauthorizes the program and ensures that communities will continue to have the data to make smart choices for economic development, shoreline management, and coastal restoration. The bill supports further development of the current project, including increasing access to uniform, up-to-date data, to help communities get the coastal data they need to respond to emergencies, plan for long-term coastal resilience, and manage their water resources.
    Companion legislation was introduced yesterday in the U.S. House by Representatives Dave Min (D-CA-47) and Rob Wittman (R-VA-01).
    “From extreme weather to competing demands for coastal property, our coastal communities need the best available resources to respond to the mounting threat of climate change,” said Congressman Min. “NOAA’s Digital Coast Program provides essential research and data to address the adverse effects of the climate crisis, all while creating thousands of high tech jobs around America. I’m proud to be leading the charge to protect Orange County’s beautiful coastline.”
    “Virginia’s First District is home to vibrant coastal communities that rely on cutting-edge data and resources to thrive, especially in the face of challenges such as extreme weather and aging infrastructure,” said Congressman Wittman. “I’m proud to help introduce the Digital Coastal Reauthorization Act alongside Rep. Dave Min, legislation that will reauthorize NOAA’s Digital Coast program. This vital program collects and distributes data that will help mitigate future weather-related issues and provide communities with the tools they need to expand and plan for the future.” 
    “Digital Coast represents the best of government at work,” said Sue Schwartz, FAICP, President of the American Planning Association. “It’s innovative, collaborative, efficient, bipartisan, and cost-effective; all while helping local communities make better decisions about how to tackle tough coastal challenges. Planners benefit from access to critical data that shapes the insights they bring to residents and local leaders. The American Planning Association strongly supports the reauthorization of this vital resource for protecting and planning our communities.” 
    “NOAA’s Digital Coast provides a one-stop shop for the data, tools and training that coastal managers and researchers use to learn and do their jobs. As a collaboration between the federal government and partner organizations and used extensively by the public and private sectors, Digital Coast is government at its most effective,” said Derek Brockbank, Executive Director of Coastal States Organization.?“The Digital Coast Act will ensure this important resource for all communities is authorized and funded for the next 5 years.”?  
    “The Digital Coast Program empowers coastal states with the tools and data they need to address real-world challenges—from flooding and hurricanes to smart growth and resource management,” said Ken Nelson, National States Geographic Information Council (NSGIC) President. “Continued federal support is vital to strengthening the geospatial foundation that drives both our economy and our national preparedness. Reauthorizing the Digital Coast Act ensures coastal communities have the high-quality data they need to plan, protect, and prosper.” 
    “To make sure that people can enjoy everything our coasts have to offer, coastal managers need to have the right tools, data and training. The Digital Coast partnership provides those products and services,” said Stephanie Bailenson, US Federal Water Policy Team Lead at The Nature Conservancy. “We’ve seen in our work across the country how Digital Coast helps coastal communities address storms and flooding while strengthening local economies. We’re happy to see the sponsors of the partnership’s reauthorization bill demonstrate the continued bi-partisan support for the partnership.”
    “The provisions of the Digital Coast Reauthorization will modernize the Digital Coast program and provide for the continuation of a sustainable program to utilize geospatial technologies to map and monitor the coastal waterways of the United States, providing an invaluable benefit to the public, and to the professionals whose charge is to protect their health, safety, and welfare,” said Timothy W. Burch, PLS, Executive Director of National Society of Professional Surveyors. 
    “The Digital Coast Program is a balanced approach to environmental protection and economic development in our valuable coastal areas.? This bill reauthorizes and modernizes a successful program that utilizes the talent of the private sector and intergovernmental agencies by providing data and services that are essential to the economic engine that is coastal America, while conserving it’s precious natural resources through geospatial data and related activities,” said John Palatiello, Founder of US Geospatial Executives Organization (U.S. GEO).
    “The Digital Coast Partnership Advocacy Coalition commends Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) for introducing the Digital Coast Reauthorization Act. The Coalition also wishes to thank Representatives Dave Min (D-CA) and Rob Wittman (R-VA) for their leadership in introducing the companion bill in the House. The strong bipartisan support for this measure is a demonstration of its broad appeal and value to the nation’s communities. By consolidating coastal data from a variety of sources in one place and making it publicly accessible, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Digital Coast program is helping the coastal management community better plan for storms, flooding, natural disasters, and other challenges that impact vulnerable coastal and Great Lakes communities. Data included in the Digital Coast ranges from surveying, mapping, geospatial, economic, demographic and ecosystem data to satellite imagery. In addition to making this data publicly available online, the Digital Coast provides a wide array of visualization and prediction tools that dramatically improve the effectiveness and efficiency of coastal management projects around the country. Over the next 15 years, NOAA predicts a 411 percent return on investment from the Digital Coast program. In addition to the return on investment, the Digital Coast has played a significant role in protecting communities and natural resources from damaging natural disasters. Furthermore, 75 percent of Digital Coast users surveyed by NOAA indicated that their projects would not have been possible without the Digital Coast. By having bipartisan and bicameral introduction of the Digital Coast Reauthorization Act, we deeply appreciate your recognition of the numerous benefits the Digital Coast can provide to coastal communities and those working to make them more resilient,” said John “JB” Byrd, Coordinator, Digital Coast Partnership Advocacy Coalition. 
    “As our coastlines and beaches bear the brunt of extreme weather events, flooding, chronic erosion, sea level rise, and other hazards, coastal communities need every tool at their disposal to make informed decisions and plan for a safer, more resilient future,” said Emma Haydocy, Senior Manager of Coasts and Climate Initiative at the Surfrider Foundation. “NOAA’s Digital Coast program makes invaluable data accessible to the American public in light of these challenges, and reauthorizing and expanding this program will help safeguard vital coastal resources throughout the U.S. for years to come.”
    The legislation is endorsed by Coastal States Organization, American Planning Association, Association of State Floodplain Managers, National Association of Counties, National Society of Professional Surveyors, U.S Geospatial Executives Organization (U.S. GEO), Surfrider Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, National States Geographic Information Council, National Estuarine Research Reserve Association, Quantum Spatial Inc., Wisconsin Society of Land Surveyors, and Digital Coast Partnership Advocacy Coalition.
    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Fight to end AIDS: ‘This is not just a funding gap – it’s a ticking time bomb’

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    The 2025 Global AIDS Update released on Thursday by UNAIDS – the global body’s agency fighting AIDS and HIV infection – warns that a historic funding crisis now threatens to unravel decades of hard-won gains unless countries radically rethink how they fund and deliver HIV services.

    Yet even amid these challenges, many of the most-affected countries are stepping up. Of the 60 low and middle-income nations surveyed in the report, 25 have signaled plans to increase domestic HIV budgets in 2026 – a clear sign of growing national leadership and commitment to the response.

    Although promising, such efforts are not sufficient to replace the scale of international funding in countries that are heavily reliant on global donors.  

    Global emergency   

    Despite marked progress in the HIV response in 2024, this year has seen many disruptions to HIV prevention programmes and treatment services, due to abrupt funding shortfalls in Washington and other major donor capitals.  

    Even before the large-scale service disruptions, reported data for 2024 showed that 9.2 million people living with HIV still did not have access to life-saving treatments, contributing to 75,000 AIDS-related deaths among children in 2024.  

    “This is not just a funding gap – it’s a ticking time bomb,” said Winnie Byanyima, UNAIDS Executive Director, as many AIDS-relief programmes are being defunded, pushing people out of critically needed care.  

    If US-supported HIV treatment and prevention services collapse entirely, UNAIDS estimated that an additional six million new HIV infections, and four million additional AIDS-related deaths could occur between 2025 and 2029. 

    Call for solidarity

    Despite the grim landscape, “there is still time to transform this crisis into an opportunity,” said Ms. Byanyima, as countries and communities are stepping up to protect treatment gains.  

    As of December 2024, seven countries in sub-Saharan Africa had achieved the 95-95-95 targets: 95 per cent of people living with HIV know their status, 95 per cent of those are on treatment, and 95 per cent of those on treatment are virally suppressed.  

    While such successes must be maintained and further scaled up, the global HIV response cannot rely on domestic resources alone.  

    “In a time of crisis, the world must choose transformation over retreat,” said Ms. Byanyima.  

    “Together, we can still end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 – if we act with urgency, unity and unwavering commitment,” she added.   

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 1630

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 1630
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0200 PM CDT Thu Jul 10 2025

    Areas affected…Northeast New York into Vermont

    Concerning…Severe potential…Watch unlikely

    Valid 101900Z – 102100Z

    Probability of Watch Issuance…20 percent

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorms are beginning to show signs of
    intensification. Damaging winds and large hail will be possible
    through the afternoon, but confidence in thunderstorm coverage
    remains low. Watch issuance is not anticipated at this time.

    DISCUSSION…Weak convection has been percolating across northeast
    NY and VT since late morning, but has recently shown some signs of
    intensification per GOES IR imagery and vertically integrated
    liquid/echo top trends. Some degree of intensification is probable
    as daytime heating continues for the next several hours and MLCAPE
    increases to around 1000 J/kg. Elongated anvils are noted with
    deeper convection, which confirms recent forecast soundings that
    suggest upper-level winds are around 35-45 knots. However, winds
    through much of the CAPE-bearing layer remain near/below 20 knots,
    which is confirmed by recent VWP observations. Given the modest
    lapse rates/buoyancy, it remains unclear whether updrafts will be
    deep enough to sufficiently realize the stronger winds aloft and
    take on more organized supercell structures, especially given
    nebulous forcing for ascent/weak dynamic mid-level cooling.
    Consequently, a few strong/severe storms appear possible, but
    confidence in the overall coverage and longevity of severe
    convection remains limited. Trends will continue to be monitored,
    but watch issuance is currently not anticipated.

    ..Moore/Mosier.. 07/10/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…GYX…BTV…ALY…

    LAT…LON 45067401 45047151 44547155 44217176 43837204 43517228
    43117281 42897327 42787353 42767391 42877430 43127455
    43497457 43897442 44217428 44567422 44907417 45067401

    MOST PROBABLE PEAK WIND GUST…55-70 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK HAIL SIZE…UP TO 1.25 IN

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 1631

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 1631
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0220 PM CDT Thu Jul 10 2025

    Areas affected…north-central into eastern Nebraska…far southeast
    South Dakota…western Iowa

    Concerning…Severe potential…Watch likely

    Valid 101920Z – 102145Z

    Probability of Watch Issuance…95 percent

    SUMMARY…Severe storms are expected to develop close to 21Z over
    north-central Nebraska, with activity spreading east/southeast
    across the Missouri River this evening. A tornado and hail risk may
    exist initially, following by a corridor of significant damaging
    wind potential.

    DISCUSSION…Satellite and radar indicate an arcing line of elevated
    thunderstorms over northeast NE, spreading into southeast SD and
    western IA. This activity is supported by theta-e advection with
    southwest flow off the surface, with steep lapse rates aloft.

    Behind this activity, temporary subsidence and clearing exist over
    eastern NE. While initially cool, this air mass should destabilize
    again this evening.

    Meanwhile, a large CU field is currently developing over central and
    north-central NE, near a stationary front. Deep moisture convergence
    will persist in this area, with the cap being breached later this
    afternoon. Aiding cap removal are hot temperatures just downstream
    into northern KS/southern NE, where temperatures are over 100 F.

    Veering winds with height, combined with strong instability, will
    favor slow-moving supercells at first, with tornado and large hail
    risk. With time, a severe MCS is forecast, with increasing damaging
    wind potential. Significant wind gusts over 75 mph appear likely.

    ..Jewell/Mosier.. 07/10/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…DMX…FSD…OAX…GID…LBF…

    LAT…LON 41029794 41229927 41499983 41949999 42110000 42480001
    42779985 43059917 43089837 43129680 42879615 42379563
    41999555 41449565 41079604 40929644 40979723 41059787
    41029794

    MOST PROBABLE PEAK TORNADO INTENSITY…100-130 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK WIND GUST…65-80 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK HAIL SIZE…1.50-2.50 IN

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 1632

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 1632

    Mesoscale Discussion 1632
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0241 PM CDT Thu Jul 10 2025

    Areas affected…much of western Kansas into south-central Nebraska

    Concerning…Severe potential…Watch likely

    Valid 101941Z – 102145Z

    Probability of Watch Issuance…80 percent

    SUMMARY…Storms will develop across much of western Kansas and into
    south-central Nebraska, with damaging wind gusts likely. Isolated
    large hail may also occur.

    DISCUSSION…Satellite imagery shows towering CU developing with a
    surface trough/wind shift from the western OK across KS and into
    south-central NE. Temperatures within this zone are near 100 F,
    while dewpoints have only only mixed down into the mid to upper 50s
    F.

    Given the hot and deeply mixed boundary layer, strong wind gusts
    appear probable. Veering winds with height also suggest some
    cellular mode is possible as well, and isolated hail may occur with
    the strongest storms. However, northeastward propagating mixed-mode
    severe appears most likely.

    ..Jewell/Mosier.. 07/10/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…GID…LBF…DDC…GLD…

    LAT…LON 38060147 39230067 40340004 40979977 41329961 41489934
    41559895 41379862 41079852 40349859 39689880 38899918
    38159992 37420083 37200155 37240188 37460195 38060147

    MOST PROBABLE PEAK TORNADO INTENSITY…UP TO 95 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK WIND GUST…65-80 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK HAIL SIZE…1.00-1.75 IN

    Top/All Mesoscale Discussions/Forecast Products/Home

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 501

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL1

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 501
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    310 PM CDT Thu Jul 10 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Far Western Iowa
    Northeast Nebraska
    Extreme Southeast South Dakota

    * Effective this Thursday afternoon and evening from 310 PM until
    1000 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 80
    mph likely
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
    inches in diameter likely

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorm development is anticipated within the very
    unstable airmass across central/northeast NE this afternoon.
    Environmental conditions support initial supercells capable of all
    severe hazards, including large to very large hail and tornadoes.
    Upscale growth is anticipated after the initial cellular mode, with
    the resultant convective line progressing quickly eastward. Strong
    wind gusts are possible within this line, including gusts over 75
    mph.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 75 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 5 miles north northwest of Broken Bow
    NE to 10 miles east of Denison IA. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU1).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 70 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 27035.

    …Mosier

    SEL1

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 501
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    310 PM CDT Thu Jul 10 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Far Western Iowa
    Northeast Nebraska
    Extreme Southeast South Dakota

    * Effective this Thursday afternoon and evening from 310 PM until
    1000 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered damaging winds and isolated significant gusts to 80
    mph likely
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2
    inches in diameter likely

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorm development is anticipated within the very
    unstable airmass across central/northeast NE this afternoon.
    Environmental conditions support initial supercells capable of all
    severe hazards, including large to very large hail and tornadoes.
    Upscale growth is anticipated after the initial cellular mode, with
    the resultant convective line progressing quickly eastward. Strong
    wind gusts are possible within this line, including gusts over 75
    mph.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 75 statute miles
    north and south of a line from 5 miles north northwest of Broken Bow
    NE to 10 miles east of Denison IA. For a complete depiction of the
    watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU1).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 70 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 27035.

    …Mosier

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW1
    WW 501 TORNADO IA NE SD 102010Z – 110300Z
    AXIS..75 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    5NNW BBW/BROKEN BOW NE/ – 10E DNS/DENISON IA/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 65NM N/S /52ENE LBF – 55NNE OVR/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..70 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 27035.

    LAT…LON 42589967 43079519 40899519 40419967

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU1.

    Watch 501 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Mod (60%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (60%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025, Francesca Albanese & other topics – Daily Press Briefing

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025
    Francesca Albanese
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Lebanon
    Ukraine
    Sudan
    Somalia
    Democratic Republic of the Congo
    Libya
    UN Environment Programme/Report
    Briefings

    SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS REPORT 2025
    On Monday, in a press conference, the Secretary-General will launch the Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025. He will be joined by the Deputy-Secretary-General Amina Mohammed and our Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, Li Junhua.

    The press conference will take place at 12:45 p.m., just after the noon briefing.

    FRANCESCA ALBANESE
    In response to questions on the sanctions imposed by the United States on Francesca Albanese, the Spokesman said that the imposition of sanctions on special rapporteurs is a dangerous precedent.

    Francesca Albanese, like all other Special UN Human Rights Rapporteurs, is an independent human rights expert appointed by the UN Human Rights Council and reporting to the Human Rights Council. Special Rapporteurs do not report to the Secretary-General, and he has no authority over them or their work.

    That being said, Member States are perfectly entitled to their views and to disagree with the reports by the Special Rapporteurs, but we encourage them to engage with the UN human rights architecture.
    The use of unilateral sanctions against special rapporteurs, or any other UN expert or official is unacceptable.

    OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
    The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that a UN team managed to bring about 75,000 litres of fuel from Israel into the Gaza Strip. That is the first such provision in 130 days. As mentioned yesterday during the noon briefing, the UN and its humanitarian partners need hundreds of thousands of litres of fuel each day to keep essential life-saving and life-sustaining operations going, meaning the amount entered yesterday isn’t sufficient to cover even one day of energy requirements. Fuel is still running out and services will shut down if greater volumes do not enter Gaza Strip immediately.

    One partner, for instance, reported that this week that in a matter of days, fuel shortages could cut off supplies of clean drinking water to about 44,000 children that depend on that water source. The lack of fresh water would further increase the risk of waterborne illnesses such as cholera, diarrhea and dysentery. 

    Meanwhile, the Israeli military continues its operations across the Gaza Strip, including shelling and ground incursions. This morning, people waiting to get nutritional supplements were reportedly struck in Deir al Balah. According to Al-Aqsa Hospital, the attack resulted in dozens of casualties, the majority of whom were women and children. 

    In a statement issued today, Catherine Russell, the Executive Director of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), said she was appalled by the reported killing of 15 Palestinians, including nine children and four women, who were just waiting in line for nutritional supplies their children. And I can tell you that the UN, yet again, condemns the killing of civilians in Gaza.

    OCHA stresses that parties are bound by international humanitarian law to prevent such excessive death and injury of civilians in the midst of war.
    All parties must take all feasible precautions to avoid and minimize civilian harm, and indiscriminate attacks are strictly prohibited.

    Another strike today reportedly hit the office of a humanitarian partner in Gaza city; three staff were killed.

    Yesterday, UN partners providing education services said that between October 2023 and June of this year, 626 temporary learning spaces have been established in Gaza, with 240,000 students enrolled, about half of those students are girls. However, UN partners say that only 299 spaces are currently operational due to the ongoing displacement orders, funding shortfalls and other challenges.

    UN humanitarian partners, including first responders, health workers, and aid workers, continue to deliver food and other assistance under intolerable conditions, and they themselves are facing hunger. A number of our own colleagues are also facing hunger. They also face water scarcity and threats to their personal safety, just like everyone else in Gaza.
    As we said, time and again: This catastrophic situation must end. A ceasefire is not only urgent, it is long overdue, and all of the hostages need to be released unconditionally and immediately.

    Full highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=10%20July%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oCq6GB-B6Sk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strong Votes to Fully Fund Veterans, Bolster Military Readiness

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

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Dale Strong, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, voted today in support of H.R. 3944, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026. The vital legislation championing veterans, supporting military families, and prioritizing infrastructure upgrades, passed the House of Representatives on a 218-206 vote.

    Once enacted, this bill will provide essential funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Defense (DoD) to support critical investments in military infrastructure, readiness, and the well-being of service members, veterans, and their families.  

    “I’m proud to support this bill, which delivers on our promises to America’s veterans by fully funding their health care and benefits,” said Rep. Strong. “It will help improve the lives of our troops and their families with better access to childcare, safer housing, and stronger base infrastructure. This funding bill also makes an effort to fund key construction projects to support readiness and our national security, expands mental health services, combats veteran homelessness, and makes smart investments in the Indo-Pacific to push back against China’s growing threat.”

    NORTH ALABAMA WINS

    Representative Strong successfully secured pivotal provisions directly benefiting North Alabama:  

    Advancing U.S. Space Command Headquarters Plans  

    One provision advances the U.S. Space Command (USSPACECOM) Headquarters process and requires a detailed funding plan and report for the necessary facilities investments.  

    “During the entire USSPACECOM basing process, Redstone Arsenal ranked as the #1 location for the headquarters. Four subsequent DoD Inspector General and GAO reports confirmed that the Air Force made the right choice — Redstone is what is best for national security, the taxpayer, the personnel, and their families,” said Strong.

    Ensuring Fair Veteran Cemetery Placement  

    Strong was also successful advancing a provision directing the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) to conduct a report evaluating its veteran population data collection methodology. A 2019 U.S. Government Accountability Office report indicated that if U.S. Census Bureau data were used rather than NCA’s current methodology, North Alabama would rank 2nd in need for a VA cemetery.

    “Nearly 60,000 veterans call Alabama’s Fifth Congressional District home. Those veterans and their families deserve the opportunity to choose a final resting place closer to home. Currently, the closest VA cemeteries are in Corinth, MS, Montevallo, AL, and Chattanooga, TN. I firmly believe that a more accurate data evaluation would make North Alabama a top candidate for a National or VA-grant funded state cemetery,” said Strong.  

    Other wins that will benefit North Alabama include a provision that expresses Congressional support for DoD range operations and supporting facilities, such as Redstone Test Center at Redstone Arsenal, and language directing the Veterans Health Administration to submit a report and recommended legislative changes to improve reimbursement rates, locality adjustments, prescription drug prices for veterans living in VA State Veteran Homes, like the Floyd E “Tut” Fann Home in Huntsville, AL.  
     

    KEY TAKEAWAYS  

    Champions our veterans by:  

    • Fully funding veterans’ health care programs.  
    • Fully funding veterans’ benefits and VA programs.  
    • Supporting President Trump’s efforts to combat veteran homelessness by investing in the new Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment program.  
    • Maintaining funding levels for research, mental health programs, and other programs relied upon by veterans.  

    Supports the Trump Administration and the mandate of the American people by:  

    • Protecting the 2nd Amendment rights of veterans by preventing the VA from sending information to the FBI about veterans without a judge’s consent.  
    • Syncing up with President Trump’s Executive Orders on no funds for DEI, gender affirming care, and protecting Hyde-like language at the VA.  
    • Prohibiting the VA from processing medical care claims for illegal aliens.  

    Bolsters U.S. national security and border protections by:  

    • Providing robust funding for military construction, enabling continued investment in the Indo-Pacific region, and infrastructure necessary to support advanced weapons systems.  
    • Maintaining the prohibitions on the closure of Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and the use of military construction funds to build facilities for detainees on U.S. soil.  
    • Prohibiting the VA from purchasing resources directly or indirectly from the People’s Republic of China.  

    DETAILED FUNDING SUMMARY  

    Department of Defense (Military Construction and Family Housing)  

    Provides $18 billion for the Department of Defense (DoD) military construction and family housing for the following:

    • Planning and design of future barracks to address barrack deficiencies identified by the Government Accountability Office.  
    • Demolition of excess and obsolete infrastructure, saving taxpayers money and lowering long-term facility maintenance costs at DoD.  
    • Guard and Reserve facility construction.  
    • Military Family Housing.  
    • Child development centers to improve the quality of life of military families.  

    Department of Veterans Affairs  

    Provides $452.64 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs for the following:  

    • Fully funds veterans’ medical care  
    • Fully funds veterans’ benefits and toxic exposures-related needs for the Toxic Exposures Fund (TEF).  
    • Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment program, an innovative effort to end veteran homelessness.  

    The Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026 is the first of 12 annual Appropriations bills to pass the House of Representatives.  

    “I want to thank Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole and Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, as well as the MilCon-VA subcommittee Chairman Judge John Carter and Ranking Member Debbie Wasserman-Schultz for their hard work on this critical funding bill,” said Strong.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Caro Holdings Introduces Full-Cycle AI Automation Framework to Solve Execution Gaps for Small Businesses

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHEFFIELD, United Kingdom, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Caro Holdings Inc. (OTC:CAHO), through its subsidiary, announced the launch of a full-cycle AI automation framework to help small and mid-sized businesses implement systems that deliver measurable outcomes – without the complexity or cost of enterprise platforms.

    The launch addresses frustration among SMEs, where fragmented tools and disconnected workflows have slowed adoption, despite the rise of no-code platforms. While small businesses collectively save over 6.3 billion hours annually using AI, few translate that into sustainable gains.

    Caro’s automation model breaks customer acquisition and conversion into four quadrants, powered by AI and supported by human oversight:

    • Outreach – Content-Driven Attraction
      AI-generated blogs, emails, video scripts, and platform-specific social content enable small teams to execute strategies in hours not weeks. Businesses using AI for content report up to a 70% reduction in creation time.
    • Prospecting – Smart Outreach & Data Enrichment
      Caro’s enrichment engine integrates with Google Sheets, CRMs, or databases to validate contacts, enrich records, and trigger outreach across email, LinkedIn, and voice. AI prioritizes by fit and intent, while human oversight ensures relevance and compliance.
    • Engagement – Intelligent Conversation Management
      The conversation layer combines chat, voice, and AI-driven email responders with historical context and escalation protocols. It goes beyond answering questions-learning and adapting in real time. This reduces inbound handling by 40–70% while preserving the personalized touch small businesses are known for.
    • Conversion – CRM Integration & Revenue Activation
      From proposal generation to booking and payment, Caro’s system connects every step to platforms like HubSpot and Salesforce. Automation drives onboarding, customer workflows, and marketing, each tied to KPIs like CAC, LTV, and churn.

    Unlike typical enterprise tools, Caro’s framework is designed for founders, operators, and small teams-no coding or engineering expertise needed.

    Pilot programs across retail, professional services, and SaaS report:

    • 30–50% reduction in operational overhead
    • 2–3x increase in qualified lead flow
    • ROI of $4–$7 per $1 spent within 60 days

    Caro is now onboarding early-stage and growth businesses in the UK and America, with distribution supported by a growing network of resellers and agency partners.

    About Caro Holdings Inc.
    Caro Holdings Inc. is dedicated to accelerating the growth of brands through digital innovation and AI-powered solutions. Its services include e-commerce strategy, digital marketing, AI technology, and growth capital. Learn more at www.caroholdings.com.

    Caro Holdings Inc.
    +1 786-755-3210
    ir@caroholdings.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Gibson Energy Confirms 2025 Second Quarter Earnings Release Date and Provides Conference Call & Webcast Details

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gibson Energy Inc. (TSX:GEI) (“Gibson” or the “Company”) announced today that it expects to release its 2025 second quarter financial and operating results on Monday, July 28, 2025, after the close of North American markets. The 2025 second quarter management’s discussion and analysis and unaudited consolidated financial statements will be available on the Company’s website at www.gibsonenergy.com and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Earnings Conference Call & Webcast Details
    A conference call and webcast will be held to discuss the 2025 second quarter financial and operating results at 7:00am Mountain Time (9:00am Eastern Time) on Tuesday, July 29, 2025.

    To register for the call, view dial-in numbers, and obtain a dial-in PIN, please access the following URL:

    Registration is currently open and recommended at least five minutes prior to the conference call.

    This call will also be broadcast live on the Internet and may be accessed directly at the following URL:

    The webcast will remain accessible for a 12-month period at the above URL.

    About Gibson
    Gibson is a leading liquids Infrastructure company with its principal businesses consisting of the storage, optimization, processing, and gathering of liquids and refined products, as well as waterborne vessel loading. Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, the Company’s operations are located across North America, with core terminal assets in Hardisty and Edmonton, Alberta, Ingleside and Wink, Texas, and a facility in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

    Gibson shares trade under the symbol GEI and are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. For more information, visit www.gibsonenergy.com.

    For further information, please contact:

    Investor Relations
    Phone: (403) 776-3077
    Email: investor.relations@gibsonenergy.com

    Media
    Phone: (403) 476-6334
    Email: communications@gibsonenergy.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Gibson Energy Confirms 2025 Second Quarter Earnings Release Date and Provides Conference Call & Webcast Details

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gibson Energy Inc. (TSX:GEI) (“Gibson” or the “Company”) announced today that it expects to release its 2025 second quarter financial and operating results on Monday, July 28, 2025, after the close of North American markets. The 2025 second quarter management’s discussion and analysis and unaudited consolidated financial statements will be available on the Company’s website at www.gibsonenergy.com and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Earnings Conference Call & Webcast Details
    A conference call and webcast will be held to discuss the 2025 second quarter financial and operating results at 7:00am Mountain Time (9:00am Eastern Time) on Tuesday, July 29, 2025.

    To register for the call, view dial-in numbers, and obtain a dial-in PIN, please access the following URL:

    Registration is currently open and recommended at least five minutes prior to the conference call.

    This call will also be broadcast live on the Internet and may be accessed directly at the following URL:

    The webcast will remain accessible for a 12-month period at the above URL.

    About Gibson
    Gibson is a leading liquids Infrastructure company with its principal businesses consisting of the storage, optimization, processing, and gathering of liquids and refined products, as well as waterborne vessel loading. Headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, the Company’s operations are located across North America, with core terminal assets in Hardisty and Edmonton, Alberta, Ingleside and Wink, Texas, and a facility in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

    Gibson shares trade under the symbol GEI and are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. For more information, visit www.gibsonenergy.com.

    For further information, please contact:

    Investor Relations
    Phone: (403) 776-3077
    Email: investor.relations@gibsonenergy.com

    Media
    Phone: (403) 476-6334
    Email: communications@gibsonenergy.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LPL Financial Announces Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Release Date and Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: LPLA) (the “Company”), the parent corporation of LPL Financial LLC, announced today it will report second quarter financial results after the market closes on Thursday, July 31. The Company will host a conference call to discuss its results at 5 p.m. ET the same day.

    The conference call will be accessible and available for replay at investor.lpl.com/events.

    Contacts

    Investor Relations
    investor.relations@lplfinancial.com

    Media Relations
    media.relations@lplfinancial.com

    About LPL Financial

    LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: LPLA) is among the fastest growing wealth management firms in the U.S. As a leader in the financial advisor-mediated marketplace, LPL supports over 29,000 financial advisors and the wealth management practices of approximately 1,200 financial institutions, servicing and custodying approximately $1.8 trillion in brokerage and advisory assets on behalf of approximately 7 million Americans. The firm provides a wide range of advisor affiliation models, investment solutions, fintech tools and practice management services, ensuring that advisors and institutions have the flexibility to choose the business model, services, and technology resources they need to run thriving businesses. For further information about LPL, please visit www.lpl.com.

    Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial LLC (“LPL Financial”) and LPL Enterprise, LLC (“LPL Enterprise”), both registered investment advisors and broker-dealers. Members FINRA/SIPC.

    Throughout this communication, the terms “financial advisors” and “advisors” are used to refer to registered representatives and/or investment advisor representatives affiliated with LPL Financial or LPL Enterprise.

    We routinely disclose information that may be important to shareholders in the “Investor Relations” or “Press Releases” section of our website.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Varonis Announces Date of Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Varonis Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: VRNS), the leader in data security, announced that it will report its second quarter 2025 financial results following the close of the U.S. financial markets Tuesday, July 29, 2025.

    In conjunction with this announcement, Varonis will host a conference call Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. ET to discuss the company’s financial results.

    To access this call, dial 877-425-9470 (domestic) or 201-389-0878 (international). The conference ID number is 13754774. A replay of this conference call will be available through August 6, 2025, at 844-512-2921 (domestic) or 412-317-6671 (international). The replay passcode is 13754774.

    A live webcast of this conference call will be available on the “Investor Relations” page of the company’s website (https://ir.varonis.com), and the replay will be archived on the website for one year.
      
    Additional Resources

    About Varonis

    Varonis (Nasdaq: VRNS) is the leader in data security, fighting a different battle than conventional cybersecurity companies. Our cloud-native Data Security Platform continuously discovers and classifies critical data, removes exposures, and detects advanced threats with AI-powered automation.

    Thousands of organizations worldwide trust Varonis to defend their data wherever it lives — across SaaS, IaaS, and hybrid cloud environments. Customers use Varonis to automate a wide range of security outcomes, including data security posture management (DSPM), data classification, data access governance (DAG), data detection and response (DDR), data loss prevention (DLP), AI security, identity protection, and insider risk management.

    Varonis protects data first, not last. Learn more at www.varonis.com.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Tim Perz
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    646-640-2112
    investors@varonis.com

    News Media Contact:
    Rachel Hunt
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    877-292-8767 (ext. 1598)
    pr@varonis.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Robert Garcia and Senator Alex Padilla Reintroduce the ‘Clean Shipping Act’ to Reduce Port Pollution and Protect the Health of Port Communities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Garcia California (42nd District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42) and Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) reintroduced the Clean Shipping Act. This bill establishes a path to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from large ships that come to U.S. ports, protecting the health of port communities and addressing the environmental and climate impacts of shipping pollution. Specifically, the bill would mandate that by 2050, ships must cut all greenhouse gas pollution, and by 2035, they must emit zero emissions while parked at ports. The bill is co-led by Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44). The bill text can be found here. 

    “Our nation’s ports, particularly the Port of Long Beach, are crucial parts of the economy that drive our supply chain at home. However, they’re also among the largest sources of pollution in our coastal communities,” said Congressman Robert Garcia. “Ship pollution is harmful for the health of people living near ports, and disproportionately affects low-income, working-class neighborhoods and communities of color. That’s why I’m proud to introduce a bill that addresses greenhouse gas pollution and creates a path to fully eliminate emissions. We must protect people’s health and stop our climate crisis, while ensuring good-paying jobs for the future.”

    “California’s ports are the powerhouse of our country’s economy, moving critical freight and providing good-paying jobs, all while leading the nation’s decarbonizing efforts. But neighboring communities have been forced to shoulder the brunt of global shipping pollution for too long,” said Senator Alex Padilla. “Our legislation would strengthen the sustainability of our shipping industry by reducing emissions in maritime transportation while simultaneously protecting coastal communities. The health of our communities and our planet requires us to be forward-looking and ambitious — we owe future generations nothing less than bold, transformative action.”

    “I’m proud to reintroduce the Clean Shipping Act because people deserve to breathe clean air, and this bill will help make that a reality. Communities near the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach—many of them communities of color—continue to suffer from toxic air pollution caused by ships. This bill sets a clear path to zero-emission shipping. It’s a critical step to clean up our air, protect public health, and take on the climate crisis. Port communities have waited long enough, we must act now,” said Congresswoman Nanette Barragán.

    “In order to protect our ocean and stay competitive with the rest of the world, we need federal leadership to help modernize and clean up U.S. shipping. By driving the shipping sector to develop, scale and deploy zero-emission technologies, we can spur job creation, help tackle the climate crisis and help create cleaner air for the millions of Americans living near ports. We commend Representative Garcia and Senator Padilla for their leadership on this issue and look forward to working with members of Congress to make this bill a reality,” said Caroline Bonfield, Ocean Conservancy’s Shipping Emissions U.S. Policy Manager

    “The Clean Shipping Act of 2025 will send a clear signal to the shipping industry that they must reduce their emissions by phasing out the use of fossil fuels and transition to a cleaner future. Technology-forcing policies like this legislation will enable large-scale investment in sustainable maritime fuels and technologies and establish a level playing field, minimizing the risk for manufacturers and suppliers. For far too long, dirty ships have brought significant levels of air pollution into U.S. port communities. We commend Representative Garcia and Senator Padilla for reintroducing this important bill and leading the effort to help protect communities disproportionately impacted by these harmful emissions,” said Antonio Santos, Federal Climate Policy Director, Pacific Environment.

    “The shipping industry has been polluting communities for decades, but we have the power to make shipping cleaner. Port expansions across the country have been especially devastating for communities living closest to the harbors where large ships spew toxic diesel exhaust that worsens air quality and contributes to the climate crisis. People living near ports deserve to breathe clean air, and the Clean Shipping Act will help make that a reality,” said Katherine García, Director of the Clean Transportation for All Campaign, Sierra Club. 

    “GreenLatinos endorses the urgently needed Clean Shipping Act, which protects Latino/e and other vulnerable communities from further exposure to port pollution and takes important steps to reduce harm from toxic ship fuels. 1 in 3 Latines live in the top 20% of most pollution-impacted communities. Pollution burdened communities are facing even more exposure as idling ships wait days to enter port and offload their cargo. We urge Congress to act swiftly in passing this vital legislation and protect our coastal communities from the harms of port emissions,” said Andrea Marpillero-Colomina, Policy Advisor, GreenLatinos.

    “The Clean Shipping Act of 2025 will help us work toward a future where healthy port communities thrive and everyone benefits from leveraging the tremendous potential of the ocean and ocean industries as powerful sources of climate solutions. We are grateful for the leadership of Congressman Garcia and Senator Padilla for advancing this legislation for our ocean, climate, and communities,” said Sarah Guy, Executive Director, Ocean Defense Initiative. 

    The global shipping industry accounts for nearly 3% of all global greenhouse gas emissions, and that number is expected to rise if no action is taken. Additionally, almost 40% of Americans live near ports, where people’s health is harmed by air pollution. This especially impacts working-class neighborhoods and communities of color. 

    The Clean Shipping Act is endorsed by Breathe Southern California, CleanEarth4Kids.org, Don’t Waste Arizona, Environmental Investigation Agency, Friends of the Earth, GreenLatinos, Intheshadowofthewolf, Long Beach Alliance for Clean Energy, Milwaukee Riverkeeper, Ocean Conservancy, Ocean Defense Initiative, Pacific Environment, Restoring Earth Connection, San Pedro & Peninsula Homeowners Coalition, Seattle Cruise Control, Sierra Club, Sunflower Alliance, 350 Bay Area Action, 350 Sacramento, Turtle Island Restoration Network, Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility, ABB, Evolve Hydrogen Inc., Maritime Battery Forum, and Zero Emissions Ship Technology Association

    Congressman Garcia, a co-chair of the Congressional PORTS Caucus, is committed to advocating for bold climate action and environmental justice, which includes improving port infrastructure. Congressman Garcia first introduced the Clean Shipping Act alongside Senator Padilla in 2023. During his time in Congress, Congressman Garcia has helped secure over $283 million in federal grant money for the completion of the Port of Long Beach Pier B Port Project, which will significantly reduce truck traffic and harmful emissions while improving safety, local congestion, and yielding nationwide economic benefits. Congressman Garcia also helped secure two federal grants through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law totaling nearly $44 million to reduce truck emissions at port facilities located in the Port of Long Beach. As Mayor of Long Beach, Congressman Garcia worked with the Port of Long Beach to navigate the historic surge in volume in freight in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Speaks on the Anniversary of Vermont Floods 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Welch’s Disaster AID Act filed on the anniversaries of Vermont’s July 2023 and July 2024 floods    
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) commemorated the anniversaries of the July 2023 and July 2024 floods today from the Senate Floor. Senator Welch also urged Congress to take up his Disaster Assistance Improvement and Decentralization (AID) Act, new legislation filed this morning that would cut red tape at FEMA and empower state and local governments to access recovery assistance when it is needed. The Disaster AID Act will support hazard mitigation efforts, make the delivery of disaster aid more efficient and effective, provide technical assistance to small towns, and expedite funding for disaster response. 
    “We had back-to-back floods in 2023 and 2024, doing about a billion dollars-worth of damage. By the end of last year, every county in Vermont—all 14 counties—were hit by flooding. That billion dollars in damages affected homes, it affected businesses, it affected farms,” said Senator Welch. “We’re far from alone in Vermont in having suffered enormous damage from wild weather events… This type of wild weather event can hit any one of our states at any time of its own choosing, and all of our states have been affected at one time or another.”  
    “So, my hope is that we can come together as a Congress to fix FEMA so that its capacity to help our communities—when they have been hurt so hard through no fault of their own—that they’ll be able to get the capacity to make decisions, act, and get their community back on its feet.” 
    Watch Senator Welch’s speech below: 

    Over the course of consecutive summers in July 2023 and July 2024, Vermont experienced severe storms which caused catastrophic flooding, washouts, and mudslides. Homes, farms, businesses, and public infrastructure were destroyed, and communities were left reeling. In the immediate aftermath of the destruction, FEMA provided lifesaving on-the-ground assistance, working with local organizations and the state. In the long-term, however, FEMA’s response has not met the needs of communities.    
    Many of Vermont’s towns operate with limited resources and lack the administrative capacity needed to navigate the complex web of federal disaster assistance—especially in the aftermath of a brutal flood. FEMA has failed to provide necessary support and burdensome FEMA policies have slowed or blocked communities from accessing federal funds. Towns were not empowered to capitalize on their understanding of conditions on the ground. To make matters worse, under the Trump Administration, communities must now contend with uncertain federal funding streams, including for reimbursement of projects already approved and under way.   
    Last week, Senator Welch visited with Vermonters in communities across the state that were impacted by the July 2023 and July 2024 floods—including in Killington, Ludlow, Weston, Barre and Montpelier.  He will travel across northern Vermont in the coming weeks. 
    Senator Welch has been outspoken in opposing any attempt by the Trump Administration to dismantle FEMA. Earlier this year, Senator Welch published a guest essay in The New York Times entitled: “Don’t Kill FEMA. Fix It.” In his piece, Senator Welch outlined why President Trump’s actions to undermine and potentially dissolve FEMA are misguided—but also committed to working to reform the agency’s long-term recovery process.   
    In December 2024, Senator Welch helped shape and pass a comprehensive disaster aid package, which delivered more than $100.4 billion of relief for states like Vermont recovering from climate disasters. The disaster aid package contained many of Senator Welch’s top priorities for the State: dedicated help for Vermont’s flood-impacted farmers, flexible spending through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Relief fund, money for FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, and support for businesses, among many other important provisions.    
    Learn more about Senator Welch’s work by visiting his website or by following him on social media. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CISA Releases Thirteen Industrial Control Systems Advisories

    News In Brief – Source: US Computer Emergency Readiness Team

    CISA released thirteen Industrial Control Systems (ICS) advisories on July 10, 2025. These advisories provide timely information about current security issues, vulnerabilities, and exploits surrounding ICS.

    CISA encourages users and administrators to review newly released ICS advisories for technical details and mitigations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA’s Roman Space Telescope Team Installs Observatory’s Solar Panels

    Source: NASA

    On June 14 and 16, technicians installed solar panels onto NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, one of the final steps in assembling the observatory. Collectively called the Solar Array Sun Shield, these panels will power and shade the observatory, enabling all the mission’s observations and helping keep the instruments cool.

    “At this point, the observatory is about 90% complete,” said Jack Marshall, the Solar Array Sun Shield lead at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. “We just need to join two large assemblies, and then we’ll run the whole Roman observatory through a series of tests. We’re currently on track for launch several months earlier than the promised date of no later than May 2027.” The team is working toward launch as early as fall 2026.

    The Solar Array Sun Shield is made up of six panels, each covered in solar cells. The two central panels will remain fixed to the outer barrel assembly (the observatory’s outer shell) while the other four will deploy once Roman is in space, swinging up to align with the center panels.
    The panels will spend the entirety of the mission facing the Sun to provide a steady supply of power to the observatory’s electronics. This orientation will also shade much of the observatory and help keep the instruments cool, which is critical for an infrared observatory. Since infrared light is detectable as heat, excess warmth from the spacecraft’s own components would saturate the detectors and effectively blind the telescope.

    “Now that the panels have been installed, the outer portion of the Roman observatory is complete,” said Goddard’s Aaron Vigil, a mechanical engineer working on the array. Next, technicians will test deploy the solar panels and the observatory’s “visor” (the deployable aperture cover). The team is also testing the core portion of the observatory, assessing the electronics and conducting a thermal vacuum test to ensure the system operates as planned in the harsh space environment.
    This will keep the project on track to connect Roman’s inner and outer segments in November, resulting in a whole observatory by the end of the year that can then undergo pre-launch tests.

    To virtually tour an interactive version of the telescope, visit: https://roman.gsfc.nasa.gov/interactive/
    Download high-resolution video and images from NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio
    The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope is managed at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, with participation by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California; Caltech/IPAC in Pasadena, California; the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore; and a science team comprising scientists from various research institutions. The primary industrial partners are BAE Systems Inc. in Boulder, Colorado; L3Harris Technologies in Rochester, New York; and Teledyne Scientific & Imaging in Thousand Oaks, California.
    By Ashley BalzerNASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: UK: DWP’s ‘unhealthy obsession’ with AI discriminates against people with disabilities

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Report finds DWPs use of AI traps disabled people, those in poverty and the digitally excluded in ‘bureaucratic limbo’ 

    The report highlights how intrusive data practices have led to disproportionate monitoring of disadvantaged communities  

    ‘Have some form of sort of compassion, make the forms and things easier’ – Claimant 

    ‘While people struggle to make ends meet and put food on the table due to inadequate social security, the DWP is still spending millions of pounds on costly, experimental systems designed to profile and surveil claimants’ – Imogen-Richmond Bishop 

    People with disabilities, limited digital skills, digital illiteracy, serious health concerns, or living in poverty are being pushed into bureaucratic limbo and subjected to immense stress caused by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) unchecked roll-out of technologies, Amnesty International said today in a new report. 

    The 67-page report, “Too Much Technology, Not Enough Empathy”, exposes how the DWP’s constant cycle of testing, deploying, and withdrawing costly artificial intelligence (AI) and digital systems for Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) has created an inaccessible and exclusionary social security system – disproportionately harming the most marginalised.  

    The tech-driven systems for applications and management are causing relentless dehumanisation and psychological distress for people already struggling to meet their basic needs. These systems are accompanied by intrusive data collection, resulting in excessive surveillance and profiling of disadvantaged groups – contributing to the emergence of an all-seeing state.  

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called for the UK to become an ‘AI superpower,’ with plans to accelerate AI across the public sector in a bid to boost economic growth.   

    Imogen-Richmond Bishop, Amnesty International Researcher on Technology, Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, said: 

    “The DWP’s mission to reduce ‘costs’ is an unhealthy obsession and overreliance on flawed technology. But urgent questions remain: Is the tech rollout truly cost-effective – or simply cutting corners at the expense of vulnerable people? 

    “With the UK’s National Audit Office expressing serious doubts about these technologies, it’s deeply concerning that while people struggle to make ends meet and put food on the table due to inadequate  social security, the DWP is still spending millions of pounds on costly, experimental systems designed to profile and surveil claimants,”. 

    ‘Dehumanising and discriminatory’ 

    The report follows Amnesty’s earlier publication this year, ‘Social Insecurity’, which found the UK’s social security system to be “consciously cruel”, with widespread dehumanisation and discrimination. It revealed significant barriers to access:   

    Digital exclusion is not fixed. People may experience it to varying degrees, and it can fluctuate based on factors such as living conditions, education, health, and income. 

    Furthermore, limited access to digital technologies, including the internet or internet connected devices, and their affordability are key factors contributing to digital exclusion caused by the DWP’s systems. Language barriers and excessively long wait times on telephone services offered for UC claimants add a strain, often resulting in significant psychological stress. 

    For one of the claimants interviewed by Amnesty, literacy level, gender, and socio-economic status all represented barriers to her being able to access services online. 

    One claimant told Amnesty: “Have some form of sort of compassion, make the forms and things easier. I mean, I’m quite illiterate. I mean, a lot of women are, are men of my age, can’t use them […] So they’re stuffed. They send me. Letters on my phone. I can’t open them. So I ring up. I can’t open it. I haven’t got an iPad. I can’t afford an iPad.” 

    Imogen Richmond-Bishop added: 

    “The DWP’s experimentation with tech systems has reduced people to data points, where the success of a claim often depends more on fitting into rigid digital categories than actual eligibility.  

    “Technology in this instance has oversimplified people’s complex realities by creating narrow and opaque processing that demeans people’s needs especially when they are unable to get the support from a human case worker that they need. 

    “The DWP’s data collection practices are alarmingly invasive and deeply opaque. Requiring applicants to surrender vast amounts of sensitive personal data – including health, disability, housing, marital status, and detailed financial records like bank statements – raises serious red flags. This excessive data harvesting calls into question the proportionality, legality, and fairness of how information is collected, processed and potentially exploited.”   

    The UK must ensure AI doesn’t contribute to human rights violations and Amnesty is calling for: 

    The report interviewed 783 people between October 2024 to January 2025. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Help shape the future of inclusive disaster risk reduction and climate action for assistive technology users

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Persons with disabilities, older persons, and others who use assistive technology (AT)-such as mobility aids, hearing devices, or communication tools-face increased risks during disasters and climate-induced emergencies. Too often, they are left behind due to inaccessible early warning systems, unsafe evacuation procedures, and a lack of continuity in essential services.

    To address these gaps, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), in partnership with the ATscale Global Partnership for Assistive Technology, has led a global study on inclusive disaster risk reduction and climate action for AT users. The study engaged nearly 300 stakeholders across 90 countries, including persons with disabilities, older persons, and their representative organizations.

    The findings have informed the development of a draft policy brief, now available for public consultation. The brief outlines key challenges, good practices, and concrete policy recommendations to ensure AT users are no longer left behind in disaster and climate planning.

    Access the draft policy brief

    We invite your feedback and comments to help strengthen this global call to action. Please share your feedback or questions with Nino Gvetadze, at: [email protected]

    Deadline for comments: Friday, 25 July 2025

    Your input will help ensure the voices and rights of assistive technology users are heard, valued, and reflected in global disaster and climate action.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Sheriffs shut down drug house in Edmonton

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: Ex-Google and Meta Engineers Launch Nauma: Personalized Financial Planning Tools for Tech Professionals

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A team of former Google and Meta engineers has launched Nauma, a new platform designed to help people working in tech navigate complex financial decisions with confidence. Nauma’s mission is to democratize fiduciary-quality financial guidance, providing highly personalized planning tools without the high costs of traditional financial advisors.

    Today, most high-net-worth families rely on advisors who charge based on Assets Under Management (AUM)—typically 1% of a client’s assets each year. For a family with $5 million, that means paying $50,000 annually, even as the level of service often remains static. Worse, these fees tend to rise 6–8% per year as portfolios grow, creating a system where costs scale without a proportional increase in value.

    “The AUM model is outdated and misaligned with clients’ best interests,” said Alex Sukhanov, co-founder of Nauma. “Advisors operating under this model are incentivized to keep assets under their control, which can lead to biased advice when clients actually want to use their money—to buy real estate, start a business, or donate to charity.

    Nauma is designed to give tech professionals clarity and control over their financial lives. The platform addresses the complex challenges faced by this group, including optimizing taxes, managing equity compensation, planning for early retirement, and protecting generational wealth.

    “Tech professionals are building substantial wealth earlier in their lives, but most tools and advisors aren’t designed for their unique needs,” said Simone, Nauma’s co-founder. “We’re building the modern, intelligent financial planning infrastructure we wish we had—one that puts people, not assets, first.”

    For more information, visit https://nauma.ai

    About Nauma
    Founded by ex-Google and Meta engineers, Nauma provides advanced financial planning tools tailored for people working in tech. By replacing the legacy AUM fee model with scalable, technology-driven solutions, Nauma empowers users to navigate complex financial decisions and build wealth on their own terms.

    Media Contact
    hello@nauma.ai

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/74982a9a-7d84-4a5c-8e07-edb337b65345

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Tackling aviation contrails – E-001706/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Commission has been actively supporting research efforts to better understand and address the impact of contrails on the climate for over 35 years.

    It is indeed due to these EU and national efforts that we have the present level of understanding and global leadership in this domain. As we work towards implementing effective contrail avoidance practices, our current focus remains on tackling all aviation emissions in the most effective manner.

    The Commission is currently working on fuel composition and exploring possible ways to improving jet fuel quality to reduce aromatics and sulphur levels lowering the amounts of non-CO2-emissions stemming from fuel consumption.

    Similarly, the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation[1] and the increased adoption of specific types of sustainable aviation fuels are expected to contribute to the decrease of contrail formation that affect non-CO2 climate impacts.

    In addition, the climate impacts of non-CO2 are already being monitored and reported following the entry into applicability of the Measurement Reporting and Verification framework as of 1 January 2025, as part of the EU Emissions Trading System Directive.

    Financial opportunities for contrail avoidance and sustainable aviation are available through EU funding programmes[2]. For example, the ‘dynamic collaboration to generalize eco-friendly trajectories’ (CONCERTO)[3] aims to demonstrate that more environmental trajectories and climate mitigation measures can be implemented in the daily operations to reduce CO2 and non-CO2 emissions.

    All the above EU research projects and many other national ones (e.g Climaviation[4] and LUFO[5]) are expected to ensure a rapid and holistic reduction of all non-CO2 emissions (including contrails).

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/2405.
    • [2] For example Horizon Europe, PACIFIC, UNIC, E_CONTRAIL, BECOM, CICONIA, as well as the Single European Sky ATM Research 3 Joint Undertaking and the EU ETS Innovation Fund.
    • [3] https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101114785.
    • [4] https://climaviation.fr/en/research-focus/contrails/.
    • [5] https://www.bauhaus-luftfahrt.net/en/projects/project-airtime-reducing-co2-emissions-and-contrails-with-advanced-wing-technologies.
    Last updated: 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Generation of antisemitic content and hate speech by Grok AI on X (formerly Twitter) – P-002793/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-002793/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sandro Gozi (Renew)

    Recent news has confirmed that Grok, the Artificial Intelligence (AI) chatbot developed by xAI and integrated into the social media platform X, published antisemitic content and praised Adolf Hitler. Despite the posts having been removed, the case raises serious concerns about compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA) as well as the governance of generative AI in the Union’s digital space.

    The EU sets clear legal standards and obligations under both the DSA and the Code of Practice on Disinformation when it comes to the spread of illegal content and disinformation online. Furthermore, the AI Act sets out transparency requirements for AI-generated content.

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of the above-mentioned case and, if so, what measures will it take to address the situation and prevent the possibility of such conduct in the future?
    • 2.Does the Commission consider that the proper implementation and enforcement of the DSA and the AI Act will be sufficient to prevent such practices, or is there a regulatory vacuum with regard to the AI-generated content that needs to be further addressed?

    Submitted: 9.7.2025

    Last updated: 10 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking News: China to Work with Egypt to Uphold International Trade and Economic Order – Chinese Premier

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CAIRO, July 10 (Xinhua) — China hopes to work with Egypt to uphold economic globalization and the international trade and economic order, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in Cairo on Thursday.

    As Li Qiang noted during talks with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, the two countries should safeguard the common interests of a wide range of developing countries and promote peace and stability in the Middle East and the world as a whole. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: China looks to optimize trade, expand cooperation with Egypt — Chinese Premier

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    CAIRO, July 10 (Xinhua) — China is committed to working with Egypt to promote the optimization and development of bilateral trade and create more bright spots of cooperation and new economic growth points, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said in Cairo on Thursday.

    As Li Qiang noted during talks with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, the two countries could expand cooperation in emerging areas such as new energy, electric vehicles, artificial intelligence and the digital economy. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dutch and European business leaders share insights on “Financial Services and FinTech, Business and Professional Services” at annual NHKBA summer event (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association (NHKBA), with the support from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, organised the annual summer event under the theme “Financial Services and FinTech, Business and Professional Services” on July 7 (Amsterdam time) in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The event gathered around 100 representatives from Dutch and European business leaders, and Hong Kong representatives to exchange insights on key sectors under the theme. 
     
    Speaking at the event, the Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Yung, highlighted the resilience of Hong Kong’s economy amid global challenges. She emphasised, “Under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle, Hong Kong has maintained a solid institutional foundation of the rule of law, independent judiciary, robust regulatory regime, a low and simple tax system, and free flow of people, goods, capital and information, and has remained a trusted gateway to Asia and a market for global capital.”

    Ms Yung cited Hong Kong’s rankings in a number of recent surveys as one of the world’s top three international financial centres, among the top three in global competitiveness, the freest economy in the world, and home to five universities ranked in the world’s top 100.

    She further underlined that financial services remain a pillar of Hong Kong’s economy. She remarked, “Our deep capital markets, efficient banking system, and strong legal and regulatory infrastructure provide an ecosystem in which businesses from around the world can thrive. We are also embracing the future through fintech innovation.” 

    Ms Yung also updated the audience on Hong Kong’s latest efforts to refine financial regulation to balance innovation with investor protection, including the recent completion of legislation on stablecoins. She also discussed Hong Kong’s leading role in green and sustainable bond issuance in Asia.

    The NHKBA annual summer event concluded with networking sessions and engaging discussions on how Dutch and European enterprises can benefit from Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector” between Europe, Asia, and China. The evening culminated in a dinner reception, at which the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, spoke on Hong Kong’s distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support from the motherland while being closely connected to the world under the “one country, two systems” principle.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dina Titus Statement on Failure of Universal Consent Measure in Senate

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Dina Titus (1st District of Nevada)

    Rep. Dina Titus Statement on Failure of Universal Consent Measure in Senate

    Congresswoman Dina Titus released the following statement after the Senate declined to consider a measure to restore the gambling loss deduction to 100% from 90%:

    “The failure of the Senate’s unanimous consent measure is not surprising. The Senate got us into this mess and it’s now time for both chambers to unite behind my bipartisan FAIR BET Act to ensure that average and high-stakes gamblers do not pay taxes on money they never won. If we do not do this, more gamblers will move to unregulated and untaxed offshore markets; more gamblers will not report winnings; and revenue and jobs will be lost, not just in Las Vegas, but across the nation. We will all be losers if the FAIR BET Act is not passed by Congress and signed by the President.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dina Titus Statement on Failure of Universal Consent Measure in Senate

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Dina Titus (1st District of Nevada)

    Rep. Dina Titus Statement on Failure of Universal Consent Measure in Senate

    Congresswoman Dina Titus released the following statement after the Senate declined to consider a measure to restore the gambling loss deduction to 100% from 90%:

    “The failure of the Senate’s unanimous consent measure is not surprising. The Senate got us into this mess and it’s now time for both chambers to unite behind my bipartisan FAIR BET Act to ensure that average and high-stakes gamblers do not pay taxes on money they never won. If we do not do this, more gamblers will move to unregulated and untaxed offshore markets; more gamblers will not report winnings; and revenue and jobs will be lost, not just in Las Vegas, but across the nation. We will all be losers if the FAIR BET Act is not passed by Congress and signed by the President.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Curtis Introduce Bill to Counter Chinese Sabotage of Taiwan’s Critical Infrastructure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    Bipartisan legislation aims to protect Taiwan’s undersea communication cables against “gray zone tactics” used by China
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and John Curtis (R-UT), members of the Foreign Relations Committee, introduced the Taiwan Undersea Cable Resilience Initiative Act. This bipartisan bill would protect Taiwan’s critical communications infrastructure and deter malicious “gray zone” activities by the Chinese Communist Party. The cables—critical for global communication and commerce—have repeatedly been targeted by China for undercover sabotage to undermine Taiwan’s security and sovereignty.
    “The Chinese Communist Party’s ongoing efforts to target Taiwan’s undersea cable infrastructure don’t just threaten Taiwan’s national security, but connectivity and communication around the world,” said Senator Rosen. “Senator Curtis and I are introducing this bipartisan legislation to bolster collaboration between our two nations in order to protect these underground cables and impose sanctions on any adversary that targets this critical infrastructure. I will continue to push back on China’s growing aggression, and its attempts to undermine democracy.”
    “We can’t stand idle as China ramps up its tactics to isolate Taiwan, including by sabotaging its vital undersea cables,” said Senator Curtis. “By improving systems and increasing cable resiliency, our bipartisan legislation sends a clear message: the United States stands with Taiwan and our allies in defending shared infrastructure, sovereignty, and freedom.”
    Senator Rosen has prioritized strengthening the U.S.–Taiwan partnership and defending Taiwan against growing threats from the Chinese Communist Party. She introduced and helped pass into law via the annual defense bill the bipartisan Taiwan Cybersecurity Resiliency Act to enhance joint cyber defense efforts, and she led the introduction of the bipartisan TAIWAN Security Act to bolster defense and supply chain cooperation. She has also been a consistent leader in pushing back against authoritarian influence more broadly.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Insurance Biz Africa launches pan-African Insurance Webinar Master Series

    Source: APO – Report:

    Digital news publisher, Insurance Biz Africa, is proud to announce the launch of a series of pan-African webinar sessions whose objectives are to take an unprecedented deep dive into the forces reshaping the insurance industry across Africa and the world.

    The 8-part series, themed: “Innovate. Adapt. Insure the Future“, hosted by Insurance Biz Africa, will feature two-hour webinars designed to unpack the most pressing risks, opportunities, and regulatory changes facing insurers across Africa and beyond.

    “This is a pivotal moment for the insurance industry. The annual webinar series will provide crucial insights into topics from AI and climate risk to ESG, equipping professionals and regulators to navigate volatility with confidence. The series is designed to ignite long-lasting conversations around pertinent areas of insurance and reinsurance upon which the industry can build solutions,” says Insurance Biz Africa Founding Editor and Managing Director of New Africa Business News Services (NABNS), Kwanele Sibanda.

    “At NABNS, we believe the time is ripe for bold conversations and collaborative thinking. Our series will not only educate but spark innovation, ensuring insurance and reinsurance remain pillars of economic resilience,” adds Kwanele.

    “Kicking off with Insuring Against Civil Unrests on the 23rd of July, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect, especially seeing what is currently happening across Africa in countries like Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Togo, Mali and Lybia because of political tensions. This 2-hour session will see Sasria, the only riots and civil unrests insurer in South Africa present a case study in reflection of South Africa’s July 2021 civil unrests. Sasria will also participate in the panel of experts,” concludes Kwanele.

    Insurance Webinar Master Series 2025 Themes & Dates:

    22 July 2025 – Insuring Against Unrest: Lessons from SA’s July 2021 Riots and the Evolving Role of Insurers and Reinsurers

    05 August 2025 – Cybersecurity and Systemic Risk: Building Insurance Resilience in the Digital Era

    Discuss insurance solutions for large-scale cyber events affecting entire economies.

    14 August 2025 – The Future of Underwriting: Leveraging AI, Data, and Automation Across the Insurance Value Chain

    Explore how AI and advanced analytics can revolutionize underwriting precision and speed.

    • Webinar 4:

    26 August 2025 – Bridging the Protection Gap: Innovations in Inclusive Insurance and Risk Transfer
    Innovative products, partnerships, and risk mechanisms that extend protection to underserved markets.

    04 September 2025 – ESG and Sustainable Insurance: From Compliance to Competitive Advantage
    Move beyond ESG box-ticking towards long-term, sustainable profitability.

    18 September 2025 – Index Insurance and Alternative Risk Transfer: Unlocking Scalable, Transparent Risk Solutions

    Examine new models to insure communities and sectors exposed to systemic risks.

    • Webinar 7:

    30 September 2025 – Navigating AI and Digital Disruption in Life Insurance: Risks, Rewards & Regulation

    Balance the transformative potential of AI with evolving consumer protection frameworks.

    • Webinar 8:

    09 October 2025 – Climate Change and Capital Strain: Managing Volatility in a New Risk Era

    Understand how insurers can adapt capital models amid climate-driven losses.

    Bonus Session:

    October 2025 – Insurtech and Distribution: Reimagining Customer Engagement in Insurance

    Explore new technologies reshaping sales, service, and product design.

    Each session will bring together industry leaders presenting case studies and learnings, global experts, and policymakers engaging in robust discussions, live Q&As, and actionable insights.

    Registration & Sponsorship Opportunities:

    Insurance companies, brokers, reinsurers, regulators, and service providers are encouraged to register early or partner as sponsors to showcase leadership in this high-impact series.

    For more details, registration, or sponsorship opportunities, visit: https://apo-opa.co/44yEOZH or contact info@insurancebiz.co.za

    – on behalf of New Africa Business News Services.

    Additional Information:
    To Register: https://apo-opa.co/4nIgBrg
    Insurance Biz Africa: https://apo-opa.co/4kzR4hb

    Contact:
    Issued By: New Africa Business News Services (NABNS)
    Contact: Kwanele Sibanda
    Email: Kwanele@nabns.com
    Tel: +27 27 71 316 8517

    About Insurance Biz Africa:
    Insurance Biz Africa is South Africa’s premier digital news platform dedicated to the insurance, reinsurance, and wealth management sectors. Launched in 2013, the publication offers in-depth industry coverage, expert insights, executive interviews, and regulatory updates to a targeted audience of professionals, decision-makers, and thought leaders. It is owned and published by New Africa Business News Services (NABNS), a division of SAEN Media (Pty) Ltd. The publication adheres to the Press Council of South Africa’s Code of Ethics and remains committed to journalistic integrity and excellence in financial reporting.

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –