NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI: Subtext and SoundCloud Team Up to Bring Artists and Fans Closer Together Through SMS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Subtext, an award-winning texting platform that connects media companies, brands, artists, and creators to their audiences, today announces a new partnership with SoundCloud, the artist-first platform empowering artists and fans to connect and share through music. United by a shared commitment to supporting artists and creators, Subtext and SoundCloud are giving SoundCloud’s global community a powerful way to build deeper fan relationships and generate new revenue opportunities through personalized texting campaigns. Together, this initiative marks a significant step forward in SoundCloud’s ongoing mission to build and grow artists’ careers at every stage, giving them the tools, services and creative freedom needed to build lasting fan relationships and generate new opportunities for growth.

    As the music industry becomes increasingly saturated and dominated by opaque social media algorithms, artists are seeking new ways to connect directly with their fans. SMS has emerged as a powerful, sustainable, and highly engaging channel for artists to foster authentic relationships with their audiences. Through this partnership, artists can now connect with fans via SMS communication that is authentic, direct, secure, and fully owned. Supported by a suite of tools, services, and resources designed to strengthen artist and fan connections, artists can now better reach and nurture their audiences, and generate new revenue opportunities.

    “SoundCloud is where community thrives – fans and artists connect directly, influence culture in real time, and shape what’s next in music,” said Devi Mahadevia, Chief Growth Officer at SoundCloud. “Partnering with Subtext adds a powerful new layer to that connection, giving artists the ability to scale personal, one-to-one relationships through direct SMS messaging – all while protecting their privacy. It’s another way we’re helping creators build lasting fan relationships and grow their careers on their own terms.”

    “By combining Subtext’s powerful SMS platform with SoundCloud’s cultural influence and vibrant artist community, this partnership is redefining how artists connect with their audiences,” said Mike Donoghue, CEO and Cofounder of Subtext. “Subtext gives artists a direct line to fans – fostering authentic conversations, richer relationships, and new opportunities for monetization.”

    This partnership highlights Subtext’s expanding presence in the music industry. Today, Subtext collaborates with top music organizations like Sony Music, BMG, and mTheory and renowned artists such as Barbara Streisand, dJo, Jelly Roll, and Idina Menzel.

    Subtext is now part of the suite of benefits for SoundCloud Artist Pro users, marking another step in delivering meaningful tools and resources that support artists at every stage of their journey. Artists can now launch their own Subtext line and text fans directly—sending one-to-many texts, plus 1:1 replies if they choose. While SoundCloud already enables direct messaging between artists and fans, this partnership adds a powerful new layer by allowing artists to scale those personal connections via SMS.

    About Subtext
    Subtext is an award-winning conversation platform that connects publishers, creators, and brands with their audiences through text messaging. By making direct connections with their audience, Subtext customers can communicate one-on-one or at scale. Subtext customers include Sony Music, The Washington Post, Penguin Random House, USA Today Network, and IRONMAN. For more information, visit joinsubtext.com or request a demo.

    About SoundCloud
    SoundCloud empowers artists and fans to connect and share through music. Founded in 2007, SoundCloud is an artist-first platform empowering artists to build and grow their careers by providing them with the most progressive tools, services, and resources. With over 400+ million tracks from 40+ million artists, the future of music is SoundCloud.

    Media Contact
    Laura Stephenson
    alphagroup@karbocom.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Salazar Introduces Historic Bipartisan DIGNITY Act to Finally Fix America’s Broken Immigration System

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar’s (FL-27)

    strong>WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar (FL-27) and Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) introduced a new and improved version of the DIGNITY Act – the DIGNITY Act of 2025: a bold, historic, and commonsense immigration reform bill. 

    They were joined by a group of 20 members including Reps.Mike Lawler (NY-17), David Valadao (CA-22), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Gabe Evans (CO-08), Marlin Stutzman (IN-03), Don Bacon (NE-02), Young Kim (MA-04), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Susie Lee (NV-03), Adam Gray (CA-13), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Mike Levin (CA-49), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Laura Gillen (NY-04), and Jake Auchincloss (MA-04).

    At a press conference held at the U.S. Capitol, Rep. Salazar outlined a revolutionary path forward to fix a system that has been broken for decades. 

    “The Dignity Act of 2025 is a revolutionary bill that offers the solution to our immigration crisis: secure the border, stop illegal immigration, and provide an earned opportunity for long-term immigrants to stay here and work,” said Congresswoman Salazar. “No amnesty. No handouts. No citizenship. Just accountability and a path to stability for our economy and our future.” 

    “I have seen firsthand the devastating consequences of our broken immigration system, and as a member of Congress, I take seriously my obligation to propose a solution. Realistic, common-sense compromise is achievable, and is especially important given the urgency of this moment. I consider the Dignity Act of 2025 a critical first step to overhauling this broken system,” said Congresswoman Escobar. “Immigrants – especially those who have been in the United States for decades – make up a critical component of our communities and also of the American workforce and economy. The vast majority of immigrants are hard-working, law-abiding residents; and, most Americans recognize that it is in our country’s best interest to find bipartisan reforms. We can enact legislation that incorporates both humanity and security, and the Dignity Act of 2025 offers a balanced approach that restores dignity to people who have tried to navigate a broken system for far too long. The reintroduction of this legislation includes changes that reflect the challenges in today’s political environment. I’m proud of my bipartisan work with Representative Salazar, who has been a strong partner on this issue since December 2022. It is our hope that Congress seizes the opportunity to take an important step forward on this issue.”

    The Dignity Act delivers a long-overdue solution: it secures the border, restores law and order, revitalizes the American Workforce, and allows certain long-term undocumented immigrants to earn legal status, without amnesty or a path to citizenship. The bill restores order while offering a tough but fair opportunity for those who have contributed to the country. 

    Unlike past efforts, the DIGNITY Act is fully funded through restitution payments and application fees made by immigrants, requiring NO taxpayer dollars.

    “In conversations across NY-17, I’ve heard a lot of frustration, both from employers struggling to fill jobs and families looking to reunite with their loved ones,” said Congressman Lawler. “We must do this by fixing our broken legal immigration system, securing our borders, and creating a fair, earned process for those who are already here and contributing. The Dignity Act honors America’s legacy of being a nation of immigrants and that’s why I’m proud to support it.”

    “As the grandson of Mexican immigrants and a former cop and soldier, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of a secure border and a fair immigration system,” said Congressman Evans. “I’m proud to help introduce Congresswoman Salazar’s bipartisan DIGNITY Act, which prioritizes border security while delivering a practical solution for immigrants who want to work hard, follow our laws, and be productive members of society. Our legislation accomplishes what Latino business owners and community members have been asking for: give immigrants positively contributing to our community an opportunity to pursue the American Dream.” 

    Key provisions of the Dignity Act include:

    • Border Security: Fully funds modern border infrastructure and enforcement.
    • Mandatory E-Verify: Prevents illegal hiring and protects American jobs.
    • Asylum Reform: Ends catch-and-release, and ensures timely and credible outcomes.
    • Dreamer Protections: Grants legal status and a path to permanent residency.
    • The Dignity Program: A 7-year earned legal status program allowing undocumented immigrants to live and work legally, with renewable status based on good conduct and restitution.
    • Workforce Development: Expands training, apprenticeships, and education for American workers.
    • Legal Immigration Reform: Updates visa categories to align with 21st-century economic needs.

    With growing bipartisan support and endorsements from immigration groups, faith leaders, businesses, the agricultural sector, educators, and community leaders, the Dignity Act presents the strongest and most viable opportunity in years to achieve meaningful, lasting immigration reform.

    The legislation acknowledges a key truth: most undocumented individuals are not seeking citizenship at all costs, but rather the dignity of living and working legally, contributing to society, paying taxes, being safe from deportation, and traveling to see family during the holidays. 

    At the same time, the Dignity Act makes clear that this will be the final fix, because real border security and enforcement must be in place to prevent future crises.

    WHY NOW?

    The immigration crisis is no longer confined to border towns. From the recent riots in Los Angeles to overwhelmed communities across the country, the consequences of a broken system are unfolding in plain sight. Millions live in the shadows, our economy suffers from labor shortages, and the border remains a flashpoint of national concern.

    For too long, Congress has failed to act, leaving communities, law enforcement, and immigrants caught in a system that doesn’t work.

    The Dignity Act delivers a real solution: secure the border and provide undocumented immigrants who meet strict conditions with an earned opportunity to live and work legally, with dignity and accountability. 

    It balances compassion with law and order. 

    This is a defining moment to act. The American people want security, dignity, and a system that works. The Dignity Act makes that possible.

    BACKGROUND:

    For generations, the United States has been a beacon of hope for those fleeing violence, seeking opportunity, and building a better life. But our broken immigration system has left too many in the shadows and too many Americans without answers. 

    The Dignity Act reaffirms that while we are a nation of laws, we are also a nation of second chances. By restoring order and creating a clear, enforceable process, this legislation renews the American legacy of hope and opportunity. 

    RESOURCES:

    Full press conference, click here.

    One-pager on the Dignity Act, click here.

    Detailed summary of the Dignity Act, click here.

    Section-by-section breakdown of the Dignity Act, click here.

    Full text of the bill, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – AFET ad-hoc delegation to the United States of America – 21-24 July 2025 – Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    AFET hearing on EU-US political relations © Image used under the license from Adobe stock

    A delegation of the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET), led by Chair David McAllister, will travel to Washington D.C. and Richmond, Virginia from 21 to 24 July 2025. This will be the Committee’s first official visit to the United States following last year’s elections on both sides of the Atlantic.

    During the trip, Members will discuss how to deepen transatlantic ties, enhance collective security, reinforce the shared commitment to supporting Ukraine, and tackle common challenges such as China’s expanding global influence and the situation in the Middle East. Insights gathered from the visit will inform the Committee’s ongoing work on the own initiative report on EU-US political relations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Missions – AFET ad-hoc delegation to the United States of America – 21-24 July 2025 – 21-07-2025 – Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    AFET hearing on EU-US political relations © Image used under the license from Adobe stock

    A delegation of the Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET), led by Chair David McAllister, will travel to Washington D.C. and Richmond, Virginia from 21 to 24 July 2025. This will be the Committee’s first official visit to the United States following last year’s elections on both sides of the Atlantic.

    During the trip, Members will discuss how to deepen transatlantic ties, enhance collective security, reinforce the shared commitment to supporting Ukraine, and tackle common challenges such as China’s expanding global influence and the situation in the Middle East. Insights gathered from the visit will inform the Committee’s ongoing work on the own initiative report on EU-US political relations.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Patients who feel heard are more likely to stick with medical treatment

    Source: The Conversation – France – By Diana Pérez-Arechaederra, Associate Professor of Organizational Psychology, ESCP Business School

    In the 2000s, when I worked as a psychologist in long-term elderly care and primary healthcare services, many of the patients I saw were living with chronic or complex conditions. These situations required that patients trust care providers, consistently adhere to treatments and, often, receive care over an extended period of time.

    But what stood out to me were the differences in how those protocols were applied. Some practitioners took time to explain something clearly, asked questions that showed genuine care, or invited patients into a conversation about their treatment. I also noticed how differently patients responded when none of that happened.

    The quality of communication – the level of respect, attention and clarity – often made the difference between patients’ cooperation and resistance, between their motivation and withdrawal.

    These observations led me to systematically investigate the psychological processes involved in how patients perceive fairness in healthcare.

    What I found, in collaboration with colleagues, is that this “soft” dimension of care – how people perceive their treatment, how information is shared with them, and how much time and space they are given to take part in the process – has very real effects on behaviour. Patients’ perception of respect – what we call interactional fairness – often hinges on whether they are given the chance to ask questions, make sense of information, weigh different options and even participate in making decisions. For patients to follow a practitioner’s recommendations, they need to feel informed, heard, respected and involved – not just treated.

    What fairness looks like in practice

    In our study, we examined two forms of what psychologists call organizational justice in healthcare settings:

    • Interactional justice – the sense of being treated with dignity, attentiveness and respect

    • Informational justice – the perception that shared information is clear, complete, timely and relevant

    We surveyed over 850 patients in Spain and the United States who had visited a healthcare provider in the previous six months. We asked them how they experienced their interactions with health professionals, how much they trusted those professionals, how satisfied they were with the service, whether they followed medical advice, and whether they intended to return to the same provider.

    What we saw was a clear pattern. Patients who perceived fairness – being treated with respect and given clear and appropriate information – were more likely to trust their healthcare provider. That trust, in turn, shaped whether they felt able to engage with treatment and sustain their relationship with (or, in the language of our study, their “loyalty” to) the healthcare service or physician. What we call informational fairness had a particularly strong direct link to adherence to treatments or clinical advice, showing its importance for understanding patient behaviour.

    In healthcare, patients are navigating uncertainty, vulnerability, and long-term relationships with systems and providers. Their ability to understand, participate in and trust that process is integral to care.


    A weekly e-mail in English featuring expertise from scholars and researchers. It provides an introduction to the diversity of research coming out of the continent and considers some of the key issues facing European countries. Get the newsletter!

    Insights across borders

    Despite the structural and institutional differences between Spain, with its predominantly public healthcare system, and the United States, where healthcare is largely organised through the private sector, our goal was to identify common patterns in how patients interpret and engage with services. Specifically, we sought to understand whether similar cognitive and emotional processes create the patient experience, regardless of the broader healthcare system in place.

    Using path analysis models, we assessed the relationships between patients’ perceptions of fairness and their resulting levels of trust and satisfaction, and then, the relationship between those perceptions and patients’ adherence and loyalty to the service. While patients in the United States exhibited slightly stronger associations between perceived fairness and both trust and satisfaction, the overall nature of the relationships was highly consistent across both countries.

    These findings suggest that despite differences in how care is delivered and financed, patients in both countries respond to their healthcare interactions in fundamentally similar ways. This matters for healthcare providers and policymakers across diverse settings who are aiming to enhance patient-centred care.

    Recognizing patients as agents

    At the heart of this is an ethical question: Are patients treated as agents in their own care, or simply as objects of intervention?

    Medicine is not a closed, flawless system. It is a developing field of research being translated into practice, and its shortcomings are shaped by social and structural biases, and by the fact that patients may not be given all of the options they should receive. In areas such as women’s health, chronic pain, mental health and rare diseases, patients often offer insights that clinical protocols miss. When their lived experience is ignored or dismissed, we lose opportunities for better diagnoses, more responsive and efficient care, and more sustainable treatment plans.



    À lire aussi :
    Doctors need to talk through treatment options better for black men with prostate cancer

    When I was working in elderly care, I remember the testimony of a resident who was very upset because his parenteral treatment (an injection) had been changed to an enteral one (a drink). Nobody informed him about the change. When I asked him why he was so unhappy, he said: “I much preferred the injections because the clinician who came to administer them was very nice to me. We were friends. Now, I’ll never see her again.”

    I’m not sure whether continuing with the parenteral administration was even possible, but what was certain is that nobody asked him what he preferred. And that had an impact on him.

    Listening to patients is not merely being polite: it is recognizing that they have information that professionals lack. And that the ethical foundation of health care depends not only on what medical professionals do to patients, but on how they work with them.

    What can be done

    Creating fairer care involves the following concrete practices, which come from our findings:

    • Designing information systems that support timely, accessible and patient-centred communication

    • Designing procedures and allocating enough time for professionals to conduct themselves in accordance with interactional and informational fairness principles

    • Training for professionals in relational and communication skills that foster patients’ perceptions of respect and dignity

    • Educating patients about what care can reasonably provide to help set appropriate expectations

    • Reframing patient participation so that patients are not just surveyed after the fact, but listened to and given agency throughout the care process



    À lire aussi :
    Power to the patient: Person-centred care and how you can take your health into your own hands

    None of this is separate from clinical quality. On the contrary, it is what allows clinical care to work best and for all. When patients feel that they matter – that they are respected and informed – they are more likely to collaborate, follow through and return for more care if they need it. That would benefit patients, their practitioners, healthcare systems and society.

    The scientific article referred to in this piece was funded by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation and the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), whose projects, RD24/0005/0018, were co-funded by the European Union and the Facility for Recovery and Resilience (MRR). The Network for Research on Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion (RICAPPS) was involved in the development of RD24/0005/0018. Projects PI22/01677 and PI20/00321 were co-financed by the European Union. The government of Castilla y León also collaborated in the funding of this study through research projects BioSan 2009 and BioSan 2011. These funders played no role in the study design, data analysis, results reporting or the decision to submit the manuscript for publication.

    – ref. Patients who feel heard are more likely to stick with medical treatment – https://theconversation.com/patients-who-feel-heard-are-more-likely-to-stick-with-medical-treatment-260750

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI: Global Net Lease Announces Release Date for Second Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global Net Lease, Inc. (NYSE: GNL) (“GNL” or the “Company”) announced today that it will release its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025 on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 after the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange.

    The Company will host a conference call and audio webcast on Thursday, August 7, 2025, beginning at 11:00 a.m. ET, to discuss the second quarter results and provide commentary on business performance. The results will be released before the call which will be conducted by GNL’s management team. A question-and-answer session will follow the prepared remarks.

    Dial-in instructions for the conference call and the replay are outlined below. This conference call will also be broadcast live over the Internet and can be accessed by all interested parties through the GNL website, www.globalnetlease.com, in the “Investor Relations” section. To listen to the live call, please go to the “Investor Relations” section of the Company’s website at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the call to register and download any necessary audio software. For those who are not able to listen to the live broadcast, a replay will be available shortly after the call on the GNL website.

    Conference Call Details

    Live Call
    Dial-In (Toll Free): 1-833-816-1441
    International Dial-In: 1-412-317-0533

    Conference Replay*
    Domestic Dial-In (Toll Free): 1-844-512-2921
    International Dial-In: 1-412-317-6671
    Conference Replay Number: 10201018

    *Available from 2:00 p.m. ET on August 7, 2025 through November 7, 2025.

    About Global Net Lease, Inc.

    Global Net Lease, Inc. is a publicly traded real estate investment trust listed on the NYSE, which focuses on acquiring and managing a global portfolio of income producing net lease assets across the United States, United Kingdom, and Western and Northern Europe. Additional information about GNL can be found on its website at www.globalnetlease.com.

    Important Notice

    The statements in this press release that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause the outcome to be materially different. The words such as “may,” “will,” “seeks,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential,” “predicts,” “plans,” “intends,” “would,” “could,” “should” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from the results contemplated by the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include the risks that any potential future acquisition or disposition by the Company is subject to market conditions, capital availability and timing considerations and may not be identified or completed on favorable terms, or at all. Some of the risks and uncertainties, although not all risks and uncertainties, that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those presented in the Company’s forward-looking statements are set forth in the “Risk Factors” and “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” sections in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and all of its other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, as such risks, uncertainties and other important factors may be updated from time to time in the Company’s subsequent reports. Further, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results over time, unless required by law.

    Contacts:
    Investor Relations
    Email: investorrelations@globalnetlease.com
    Phone: (332) 265-2020

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Hylite Launches with Great Wolf Lodge Nationwide to Bring Real-Time Employee Recognition to Over 13,000 Employees

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Chicago, July 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Great Wolf Lodge, North America’s largest family of indoor water park resorts, has partnered with Hylite, a leading web-based platform for frontline employee recognition, to relaunch the High Paws Recognition Program as a fully digital employee engagement program. Now live across all 22 U.S. resort locations and the corporate support center, the program empowers over 13,000 employees, affectionately known as Pack Members, to feel valued and rewarded for their hard work.

    Hylite is web-based, with no app to download or logins to create, making it easy for guests and Pack Members to recognize meaningful moments, like entertaining a child with a magic trick or remembering a family’s drink order from the day before. Each recognition prompts a real-time text or email, keeping appreciation specific and timely.

    In the dynamic hospitality setting, where non-desk teams span across shifts, departments, and locations, this immediacy ensures that great work never goes unnoticed. Recognition brings a greater sense of purpose and connection to the job and, in turn, helps Great Wolf Lodge deliver its mission of Bringing Joy to Families. 

    “Our Pack goes above and beyond to bring joy to families every single day, and it was important for us to offer a way for our guests and fellow Pack Members to share recognition when special moments are being created,” said Rachel O’Connell, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Great Wolf Resorts, “Partnering with Hylite gives us a best-in-class tool that captures those everyday moments of excellence and ensures that gratitude reaches the Pack Members who make the magic happen.”

    In 2024, two pilot locations generated approximately 10,000 guest reviews, recognizing nearly 70% of all team members. Since the peer-to-peer recognition feature launched in March 2025, Pack Members have sent more than 40,000 employee Hylites, roughly translating to one recognition per employee per month.

    Through Hylite’s easy-to-use platform, guests also have the option to instantly copy their message to Google Reviews. For May 2025, Hylite is credited with 20% of 5-star reviews across all 22 national locations.

    “Great Wolf Lodge is known for adopting technology that enhances both the guest and pack experience,” said Marissa Fetter Hochster, CEO of Hylite. “Hylite fit right into that strategy. It was also a natural extension of their existing ‘High Paws’ program, which had previously been paper-based and internal. By moving it online and inviting guest participation, Great Wolf Lodge is setting a new standard for frontline recognition.”

    As a result of the rollout, Pack Members feel appreciated, and Great Wolf Lodge guests experience exceptional service. High Paws is now live across all Great Wolf Lodge resorts nationwide, as well as the corporate support center.

    About Hylite
    Hylite is a tech-forward employee recognition platform built for the frontline. With tools that connect guests, peers, and leaders in real-time, Hylite helps organizations celebrate great work, strengthen team culture, and drive business outcomes through authentic appreciation. For more information, visit https://www.hylitepeople.com/

    About Great Wolf Lodge
    Great Wolf Resorts, Inc. is North America’s largest family of indoor water park resorts and a leader in family entertainment. With locations across the United States and Canada, Great Wolf Lodge provides families with unforgettable experiences through themed suites, expansive water parks, and year-round adventures. For more information, visit https://www.greatwolf.com/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA’s G20 Presidency aims for sustainable economic growth, job creation

    Source: Government of South Africa

    As the Chair of the Group of 20 (G20), South Africa’s goal is to promote mutually beneficial economic growth, create jobs and advance sustainable development for its partner nations, says Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

    Mashatile was speaking during the opening ceremony of the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing on Wednesday. The event showcases the latest developments in supply chain management.

    The Deputy President told the attendees that South Africa firmly believes that the establishment of enduring business relationships must occur within the framework of a fair, inclusive, and rules-based global economic order. 

    “This order should prioritise industrialisation, investment in green technologies, and digital infrastructure as key components of sustainable development, especially for developing economies.”

    These priorities, according to the country’s second-in-command, are reflected in the overall CISCE programme, which closely aligns with areas of potential cooperation between South Africa and China. 

    “We, therefore, invite our Chinese counterparts to support and participate in the key pillars of our G20 agenda by investing in green industrial projects, renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and regional manufacturing initiatives in South Africa and across the African continent.

    “Through such collaboration, we can deepen our strategic partnership and ensure that the outcomes of South Africa’s G20 Presidency reflect the shared aspirations of the Global South,” he said. 

    WATCH | Deputy President in Beijing

    [embedded content]

    The Deputy President said South Africa looks forward to hosting Chinese and other international buyers, importers and distributors in a tailored procurement mission that will be arranged on the margins of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025. 

    “We urge all stakeholders to seize these opportunities, foster partnerships, share best practices, and collectively shape the future of supply chain management to build a more connected, resilient, and prosperous world.” 

    READ | Rise in e-commerce activity boosts SA’s supply chain sector

    The G20 consists of 19 member countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It also includes two regional organisations, the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU).

    The G20 members include the world’s major economies, representing 85% of global gross domestic product (GDP), over 75% of international trade, and about two-thirds of the world population. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Crush at Gaza aid site kills at least 20, GHF blames armed agitators

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    At least 20 Palestinians were killed on Wednesday at an aid distribution site run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), in what the U.S.-backed group said was a crowd surge instigated by armed agitators.

    The GHF, which is supported by Israel, said 19 people were trampled and one fatally stabbed during the crush at one of its centres in Khan Younis in southern Gaza.

    “We have credible reason to believe that elements within the crowd – armed and affiliated with Hamas – deliberately fomented the unrest,” GHF said in a statement.

    There has been no immediate comment from Hamas.

    Palestinian heath officials told Reuters 21 people had died of suffocation at the site. One medic said lots of people had been crammed into a small space and had been crushed.

    On Tuesday, the U.N. rights office in Geneva said it had recorded at least 875 killings within the past six weeks in the vicinity of aid sites and food convoys in Gaza – the majority of them close to GHF distribution points.

    Most of those deaths were caused by gunfire that locals have blamed on the Israeli military. The military has acknowledged that Palestinian civilians were harmed near aid distribution centres, saying that Israeli forces had been issued new instructions with “lessons learned”.

    The GHF uses private U.S. security and logistics companies to get supplies into Gaza, largely bypassing a U.N.-led system that Israel alleges has let Hamas-led militants loot aid shipments intended for civilians. Hamas denies the accusation.

    The U.N. has called the GHF’s model unsafe and a breach of humanitarian impartiality standards – an allegation GHF has denied.

    Amjad Al-Shawa, director of the Palestinian NGOs Network, accused the GHF on Wednesday of gross mismanagement, saying its lack of crowd control and failure to uphold humanitarian principles had led to chaos and death among desperate civilians.

    “People who flock in their thousands (to GHF sites) are hungry and exhausted, and they get squeezed into narrow places, amid shortages of aid and the absence of organization and discipline by the GHF,” he told Reuters.

    The war in Gaza, triggered in October 2023 by a deadly Hamas attack on Israel, has devastated large swathes of the coastal enclave, displaced almost all of the territory’s population and led to widespread hunger and privation.

    ISRAELI ARMY ROAD

    Earlier on Wednesday, the Israeli military said it had finished paving a new road in southern Gaza separating several towns east of Khan Younis from the rest of the territory in an effort to disrupt Hamas operations.

    Palestinians see the road, which extends Israeli control, as a way to pressure on Hamas in ongoing ceasefire talks, which started on July 6 and are being brokered by Arab mediators Egypt and Qatar with the backing of the United States.

    Palestinian sources close to the negotiations said a breakthrough had not yet been reached on any of the main issues under discussion.

    Hamas said Israel wanted to keep at least 40% of the Gaza Strip under its control as part of any deal, which the group rejected. Hamas has also demanded the dismantlement of the GHF and the reinstatement of a U.N.-led aid delivery mechanism.

    Senior Hamas official Basem Naim said the road showed Israel was not serious about reaching a ceasefire deal.

    “It confirms the occupation’s long-term intentions and plans to remain inside the Strip, not to withdraw, and not to end the war. This contradicts everything it claims at the negotiating table or communicates to mediators,” Naim said in a post on his Facebook page.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the war will end once Hamas is disarmed and removed from Gaza.

    Gaza local health authorities said Israeli military strikes have killed at least 17 people across the enclave on Wednesday.

    Israel’s campaign in Gaza has killed more than 58,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities.

    Almost 1,650 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed as a result of the conflict, including 1,200 killed in the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. An estimated 50 Israelis and foreign nationals remain captive in Gaza, including 28 hostages who have been declared dead and whose bodies are being withheld.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI China: Trump says to slap 10% tariffs on smaller countries

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

    U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday that he planned to place over 10 percent tariffs on smaller countries, not least those in Africa and the Caribbean.

    “We’ll probably set one tariff for all of them,” Trump told reporters at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. It could be “a little over 10 percent tariff” on goods from at least 100 nations, he was quoted by the Associated Press as saying.

    Trump had just announced a deal with Indonesia earlier in the day. Under the deal, Indonesia will pay a 19 percent tariff on all goods exported to the United States, while U.S. exports to Indonesia are to be free of tariff- and non-tariff barriers.

    The president had recently sent letters to leaders of several countries, including some major trading partners of the United States, announcing tariffs of 20-50 percent to be introduced starting Aug. 1.

    Trump also said he would “probably” announce tariffs on pharmaceutical drugs at the “end of the month.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Russia rejects Trump’s ultimatum on Ukraine

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

    Russia on Tuesday rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s 50-day ultimatum to agree to an Ukraine ceasefire, dismissing the threat of “severe tariffs” as unacceptable.

    Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov emphasized that Moscow favors a diplomatic resolution to the Ukraine conflict and is ready to negotiate.

    “However, if this is not met with a proper response, if we cannot reach our set goals through diplomacy, then the special military operation will go on,” he continued.

    He said Moscow’s position is unshakable. “We expect Washington and NATO to take this seriously.”

    Trump on Tuesday denied earlier allegations that he encouraged Kiev to strike deep into Russian territory, saying that he isn’t taking sides in the conflict and advised Ukraine “shouldn’t target Moscow” with long-range weapons.

    Just one day before the clarification, Trump said at the Oval Office that the United States will send weapons to Ukraine through NATO, and threatened “severe tariffs” targeting Russia if a ceasefire deal is not reached in 50 days.

    He said some of the first Patriot missile systems could arrive in Ukraine “within days.”

    The Russian Foreign Ministry condemned the weapon deliveries as evidence that NATO countries are not interested in peace.

    U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said Trump’s reference to 100 percent secondary tariffs meant “economic sanctions.”

    Meanwhile, Ukraine’s parliament on Tuesday voted to extend the country’s wartime status and military mobilization for another 90 days, through Nov. 5. Lawmakers also approved a temporary withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention, an international treaty that prohibits the use of anti-personnel landmines.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: Atos awarded Golden Certificate by SAP as Global Operations Partner

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Global News

    20 years of trusted partnership: Atos awarded Golden Certificate by SAP as Global Operations Partner

    Atos is the second SAP Global Operations Partner to date to receive the Golden Certificate

    Paris, France, July 16, 2025 – Atos proudly announces that it has received the Golden Certificate from SAP and is thus certified for the 10th time in a row as SAP® Global Operations Partner. This exemplifies the enduring partnership between Atos and SAP in providing managed services to our clients, ensuring that they meet the highest standards of quality, scope, and global availability. Additionally, Atos has achieved the distinction of being only the second SAP Global Operations Partner to receive the prestigious golden certificate recognizing this significant milestone.

    With more than 10,000 SAP experts worldwide, Atos is a SAP Platinum Partner and has strong expertise and flexible global delivery capabilities. Through its longstanding alliance with SAP, deep industry insights and an extensive partner network, Atos goes beyond technology to meet the needs of customers, employees and business. Since 2004 Atos has always certified all critical global operations service areas. Recently Atos has globally re-newed its certification in five core business areas:

    • Global SAP S/4HANA® solutions operations and works with RISE with SAP
    • Global SAP SuccessFactors® solutions operations
    • Global SAP HANA® operations and works with RISE with SAP
    • Global SAP BTP operations and works with RISE with SAP
    • Global DevOps

    As part of SAP’s audits, four local Atos entities are recognized as SAP Operations Partners holding various SAP operations certifications: India, United States, Germany and Poland. Visit the SAP Operations Partner Guide for details on our local SAP Operations Partner certifications.

    “This certification reflects our dedication to our long and trusted partnership with SAP. Our experts at Atos constantly work hard to both exceed the expectations of our customers as well as further strengthen our partnership with SAP to deliver the best possible outcome. It makes me proud to continue this long-standing partnership”, says Chetan Manjarekar, Atos Senior Vice President and Head of Digital Smart Platforms & Transformation.

    Stefan Kallweit, Partner Engagement Expert at SAP, adds: “We are proud to count Atos among our longstanding global partners, part of a select group of certified organizations that meet our highest standards across all regions. Atos earns our trust especially by their broad expertise across multiple SAP products and their integration.”

    Atos SAP services and accelerators empower organizations to unleash the full potential of SAP Business Suite. By integrating best-in-class SAP S/4HANA Cloud ERP applications, data, and AI solutions we enhance decision-making, improve efficiency, drive innovation and fuel growth. We support our customers end-to-end—guiding them from initial strategy and implementation through ongoing service innovation and management —helping them navigate the complexities of modern business with ease and confidence.

    ***

    About Atos Group

    Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 72,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion, operating in 68 countries under two brands — Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Press contact

    Laurent Massicot | laurent.massicot@atos.net | +33 (0)7.69.48.01.80

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The BRICS + summit in Brazil raises the banner of multilateralism

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Wednesday, 16 July 2025

    Alexandre Brum – BRICS Brasil

    by Cosimo GrazianiRio de Janeiro (Agenzia Fides) – On July 6 and 7, the annual summit of the so-called BRICS countries took place in Rio de Janeiro. This forum of states was founded in 2009 and has grown in recent years to include eleven countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran. This year’s meeting was preceded by a series of events that affected its members and fueled expectations about its implementation, most notably the brief conflict between Israel and Iran, in which the United States intervened on the side of the Jewish state. However, expectations of a clear stance on this and other issues were dashed. The geopolitical actor that best took advantage of the international visibility associated with the summit was the host country, Brazil, which organized events such as the G20 summit last year, assumed the presidency of MERCOSUR, and will host the next UN climate conference. This series of events, which also included the organization of the BRICS Summit, enabled the Brazilian government to reaffirm its international stance in favor of multilateralism. Multilateralism was also the first topic addressed by Brazilian President Lula in his introductory speech. Luiz Inàcio Lula da Silva specifically criticized the threat to the progress made in recent years by organizations such as the United Nations. The Brazilian president explicitly mentioned the setbacks on issues such as climate and trade, in the latter case a not-so-disguised allusion to Donald Trump’s tariff policy.The topics of multilateralism and tariffs were mentioned in the summit’s final declaration, along with health, artificial intelligence, climate change, and the promotion of peace and security. Criticism was also directed at Israel’s actions in the Middle East and the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. These accusations were also extended to the 5% increase in military spending ordered by NATO countries: Lula particularly criticized the lack of investment for peace. At the same time, little was said about the war in Ukraine. What caused a stir during the summit was the absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping: the former likely to avoid embarrassing Brazil in connection with the international arrest warrant issued against the Russian president by the International Criminal Court; the latter officially had other concurrent commitments. Analysts’ eyes were on the summit because of its increasing importance for the so-called Global South. The organization now represents a large portion of the world’s population and an equally large share of global GDP—37% to be precise. The decisions of this group clarify whether and how the Global South will be able to exert a similar importance in global governance as the G7 countries, or even replace the G20 summit in its importance, the only forum that currently offers countries in this category the opportunity to gain visibility and significance in global scenarios. Compared to the G20, the BRICS forum is composed exclusively of countries that seek to relativize the influence of Western and developed countries. Whether this succeeds will depend on whether the member countries manage to negotiate common positions on key issues and achieve some form of political or economic integration. Regarding the latter, all BRICS members agree in proposing and advocating de-dollarization and the replacement of the US dollar with individual states’ currencies in trade transactions.The problem is that not everyone is ready for this transition, which would mean distancing themselves from Washington: countries like Russia and China are strongly in favor of it, while others like Saudi Arabia, due to their ongoing relations with Washington, do not accept such a prospect. It remains to be seen, therefore, whether US President Trump’s threats to impose tariffs on the group’s countries as they move away from the dollar will become reality. If so, the reactions of individual states to such a threat will be a true test of their loyalty to the group. Overall, it can be said that the results of the summit were mixed and that the only country that stood out somewhat more was Brazil as the organizer, because it was able to promote the main points of its foreign policy, starting with the call for multilateralism. It is premature to say that the group does not have what it takes to become an alternative to the West. However, many analysts believe that the overly diverse interests of its members will hinder the organization’s development. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the BRICS members have reached their 17th summit and that a “hard core” has emerged within the organization, in which Russia and China play a key role in finding an alternative approach to the world’s problems, different from that of the ruling groups in many Western countries. All these elements indicate that the path toward an organization of the Global South could gain weight in international relations and surpass the role played by the G20 so far. (Agenzia Fides, 16/7/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The BRICS + summit in Brazil raises the banner of multilateralism

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Wednesday, 16 July 2025

    Alexandre Brum – BRICS Brasil

    by Cosimo GrazianiRio de Janeiro (Agenzia Fides) – On July 6 and 7, the annual summit of the so-called BRICS countries took place in Rio de Janeiro. This forum of states was founded in 2009 and has grown in recent years to include eleven countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran. This year’s meeting was preceded by a series of events that affected its members and fueled expectations about its implementation, most notably the brief conflict between Israel and Iran, in which the United States intervened on the side of the Jewish state. However, expectations of a clear stance on this and other issues were dashed. The geopolitical actor that best took advantage of the international visibility associated with the summit was the host country, Brazil, which organized events such as the G20 summit last year, assumed the presidency of MERCOSUR, and will host the next UN climate conference. This series of events, which also included the organization of the BRICS Summit, enabled the Brazilian government to reaffirm its international stance in favor of multilateralism. Multilateralism was also the first topic addressed by Brazilian President Lula in his introductory speech. Luiz Inàcio Lula da Silva specifically criticized the threat to the progress made in recent years by organizations such as the United Nations. The Brazilian president explicitly mentioned the setbacks on issues such as climate and trade, in the latter case a not-so-disguised allusion to Donald Trump’s tariff policy.The topics of multilateralism and tariffs were mentioned in the summit’s final declaration, along with health, artificial intelligence, climate change, and the promotion of peace and security. Criticism was also directed at Israel’s actions in the Middle East and the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. These accusations were also extended to the 5% increase in military spending ordered by NATO countries: Lula particularly criticized the lack of investment for peace. At the same time, little was said about the war in Ukraine. What caused a stir during the summit was the absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping: the former likely to avoid embarrassing Brazil in connection with the international arrest warrant issued against the Russian president by the International Criminal Court; the latter officially had other concurrent commitments. Analysts’ eyes were on the summit because of its increasing importance for the so-called Global South. The organization now represents a large portion of the world’s population and an equally large share of global GDP—37% to be precise. The decisions of this group clarify whether and how the Global South will be able to exert a similar importance in global governance as the G7 countries, or even replace the G20 summit in its importance, the only forum that currently offers countries in this category the opportunity to gain visibility and significance in global scenarios. Compared to the G20, the BRICS forum is composed exclusively of countries that seek to relativize the influence of Western and developed countries. Whether this succeeds will depend on whether the member countries manage to negotiate common positions on key issues and achieve some form of political or economic integration. Regarding the latter, all BRICS members agree in proposing and advocating de-dollarization and the replacement of the US dollar with individual states’ currencies in trade transactions.The problem is that not everyone is ready for this transition, which would mean distancing themselves from Washington: countries like Russia and China are strongly in favor of it, while others like Saudi Arabia, due to their ongoing relations with Washington, do not accept such a prospect. It remains to be seen, therefore, whether US President Trump’s threats to impose tariffs on the group’s countries as they move away from the dollar will become reality. If so, the reactions of individual states to such a threat will be a true test of their loyalty to the group. Overall, it can be said that the results of the summit were mixed and that the only country that stood out somewhat more was Brazil as the organizer, because it was able to promote the main points of its foreign policy, starting with the call for multilateralism. It is premature to say that the group does not have what it takes to become an alternative to the West. However, many analysts believe that the overly diverse interests of its members will hinder the organization’s development. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the BRICS members have reached their 17th summit and that a “hard core” has emerged within the organization, in which Russia and China play a key role in finding an alternative approach to the world’s problems, different from that of the ruling groups in many Western countries. All these elements indicate that the path toward an organization of the Global South could gain weight in international relations and surpass the role played by the G20 so far. (Agenzia Fides, 16/7/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: MOFA response to NATO Secretary General Rutte’s statements in joint press conference with German Chancellor Merz on China’s military expansion

    Source: Republic of Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    MOFA response to NATO Secretary General Rutte’s statements in joint press conference with German Chancellor Merz on China’s military expansion

    July 10, 2025

    North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Secretary General Mark Rutte met with German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz on July 9. During the joint press conference following the meeting, Secretary General Rutte stated that the scale of the Chinese navy had already surpassed that of the United States and that China had over 1,000 nuclear warheads at its disposal. He indicated that China’s military expansion had clearly developed toward combat readiness and that China’s ambitions to get control over Taiwan were obvious. 

    He noted that if China decided to launch an attack against Taiwan, it would likely partner with Russia to create a parallel conflict in Europe, thereby keeping Europe preoccupied. Secretary General Rutte stressed that these developments had plainly demonstrated that transatlantic and Indo-Pacific security was increasingly intertwined. He added that faced with a potential joint threat from China and Russia, NATO must strengthen its collective military capabilities and deepen cooperation with allies in the Indo-Pacific region to effectively deter any possible military aggression. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomes these statements concerning regional developments.

    Since assuming office in October 2024, Secretary General Rutte has repeatedly called attention to the nature of China’s expansionist actions and its aggressive ambitions toward Taiwan. He has also actively urged people everywhere to pay heed to the challenges and risks that China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran pose to global peace and security. 

    Authoritarian countries are coordinating efforts to undermine regional peace and stability and the international order. In the face of this, Taiwan— a responsible democratic member of the global community—will continue to work with the Group of Seven, NATO, and other like-minded partners to jointly safeguard peace, stability, and prosperity across the Taiwan Strait and the Indo-Pacific region.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: David Robie: New Zealand must do more for Pacific and confront nuclear powers

    Rongelap Islanders on board the Greenpeace flagship Rainbow Warrior travelling to their new home on Mejatto Island in 1985 — less than two months before the bombing. Image: ©1985 David Robie/Eyes of Fire

    He accused the coalition government of being “too timid” and “afraid of offending President Donald Trump” to make a stand on the nuclear issue.

    However, a spokesperson for New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters told RNZ Pacific that New Zealand’s “overarching priority . . . is to work with Pacific partners to achieve a secure, stable, and prosperous region that preserves Pacific sovereignty and agency”.

    The spokesperson said that through its foreign policy “reset”, New Zealand was committed to “comprehensive relationships” with Pacific Island countries.

    “New Zealand’s identity, prosperity and security are intertwined with the Pacific through deep cultural, people, historical, security, and economic linkages.”

    The New Zealand government commits almost 60 percent of its development funding to the region.

    Pacific ‘increasingly contested’
    The spokesperson said that the Pacific was becoming increasingly contested and complex.

    “New Zealand has been clear with all of our partners that it is important that engagement in the Pacific takes place in a manner which advances Pacific priorities, is consistent with established regional practices, and supportive of Pacific regional institutions.”

    They added that New Zealand’s main focus remained on the Pacific, “where we will be working with partners including the United States, Australia, Japan and in Europe to more intensively leverage greater support for the region.

    “We will maintain the high tempo of political engagement across the Pacific to ensure alignment between our programme and New Zealand and partner priorities. And we will work more strategically with Pacific Governments to strengthen their systems, so they can better deliver the services their people need,” the spokesperson said.

    The cover of the latest edition of Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the Rainbow Warrior. Image: Little Island Press

    However, former New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark, writing in the prologue of Dr Robie’s book, said: “New Zealand needs to re-emphasise the principles and values which drove its nuclear-free legislation and its advocacy for a nuclear-free South Pacific and global nuclear disarmament.”

    Dr Robie added that looking back 40 years to the 1980s, there was a strong sense of pride in being from Aotearoa, the small country which set an example around the world.

    “We took on . . . the nuclear powers,” Dr Robie said.

    “And the bombing of the Rainbow Warrior was symbolic of that struggle, in a way, but it was a struggle that most New Zealanders felt a part of, and we were very proud of that [anti-nuclear] role that we took.

    “Over the years, it has sort of been forgotten”.

    ‘Look at history’
     France conducted 193 nuclear tests over three decades until 1996 in French Polynesia.

    Until 2009, France claimed that its tests were “clean” and caused no harm, but in 2010, under the stewardship of Defence Minister Herve Morin, a compensation law was passed.

    From 1946 to 1962, 67 nuclear bombs were detonated in the Marshall Islands by the US.

    The 1 March 1954 Bravo hydrogen bomb test at Bikini Atoll, the largest nuclear weapon ever exploded by the United States, left a legacy of fallout and radiation contamination that continues to this day. Image: Marshall Islands Journal

    In 2024, then-US deputy secretary of state Kurt Campbell, while responding to a question from RNZ Pacific about America’s nuclear legacy, said: “Washington has attempted to address it constructively with massive resources and a sustained commitment.”

    However, Dr Robie said that was not good enough and labelled the destruction left behind by the US, and France, as “outrageous”.

    “It is political speak; politicians trying to cover their backs and so on. If you look at history, [the response] is nowhere near good enough, both by the US and the French.”

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

    Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: David Robie: New Zealand must do more for Pacific and confront nuclear powers

    Rongelap Islanders on board the Greenpeace flagship Rainbow Warrior travelling to their new home on Mejatto Island in 1985 — less than two months before the bombing. Image: ©1985 David Robie/Eyes of Fire

    He accused the coalition government of being “too timid” and “afraid of offending President Donald Trump” to make a stand on the nuclear issue.

    However, a spokesperson for New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters told RNZ Pacific that New Zealand’s “overarching priority . . . is to work with Pacific partners to achieve a secure, stable, and prosperous region that preserves Pacific sovereignty and agency”.

    The spokesperson said that through its foreign policy “reset”, New Zealand was committed to “comprehensive relationships” with Pacific Island countries.

    “New Zealand’s identity, prosperity and security are intertwined with the Pacific through deep cultural, people, historical, security, and economic linkages.”

    The New Zealand government commits almost 60 percent of its development funding to the region.

    Pacific ‘increasingly contested’
    The spokesperson said that the Pacific was becoming increasingly contested and complex.

    “New Zealand has been clear with all of our partners that it is important that engagement in the Pacific takes place in a manner which advances Pacific priorities, is consistent with established regional practices, and supportive of Pacific regional institutions.”

    They added that New Zealand’s main focus remained on the Pacific, “where we will be working with partners including the United States, Australia, Japan and in Europe to more intensively leverage greater support for the region.

    “We will maintain the high tempo of political engagement across the Pacific to ensure alignment between our programme and New Zealand and partner priorities. And we will work more strategically with Pacific Governments to strengthen their systems, so they can better deliver the services their people need,” the spokesperson said.

    The cover of the latest edition of Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the Rainbow Warrior. Image: Little Island Press

    However, former New Zealand prime minister Helen Clark, writing in the prologue of Dr Robie’s book, said: “New Zealand needs to re-emphasise the principles and values which drove its nuclear-free legislation and its advocacy for a nuclear-free South Pacific and global nuclear disarmament.”

    Dr Robie added that looking back 40 years to the 1980s, there was a strong sense of pride in being from Aotearoa, the small country which set an example around the world.

    “We took on . . . the nuclear powers,” Dr Robie said.

    “And the bombing of the Rainbow Warrior was symbolic of that struggle, in a way, but it was a struggle that most New Zealanders felt a part of, and we were very proud of that [anti-nuclear] role that we took.

    “Over the years, it has sort of been forgotten”.

    ‘Look at history’
     France conducted 193 nuclear tests over three decades until 1996 in French Polynesia.

    Until 2009, France claimed that its tests were “clean” and caused no harm, but in 2010, under the stewardship of Defence Minister Herve Morin, a compensation law was passed.

    From 1946 to 1962, 67 nuclear bombs were detonated in the Marshall Islands by the US.

    The 1 March 1954 Bravo hydrogen bomb test at Bikini Atoll, the largest nuclear weapon ever exploded by the United States, left a legacy of fallout and radiation contamination that continues to this day. Image: Marshall Islands Journal

    In 2024, then-US deputy secretary of state Kurt Campbell, while responding to a question from RNZ Pacific about America’s nuclear legacy, said: “Washington has attempted to address it constructively with massive resources and a sustained commitment.”

    However, Dr Robie said that was not good enough and labelled the destruction left behind by the US, and France, as “outrageous”.

    “It is political speak; politicians trying to cover their backs and so on. If you look at history, [the response] is nowhere near good enough, both by the US and the French.”

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

    Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ22: Toys safety

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Professor the Hon Chow Man-kong and a written reply by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, in the Legislative Council today (July 16):

    Question:

    It has been reported that certain toys (e.g. slime, powerful magnetic beads and toy aqua beads, etc.) pose potential safety hazards. For instance, in 2023, there were 6 000 cases of children seeking emergency medical treatment in the United States (US) due to the inadvertent use of toy aqua beads, and there was even a 10-month-old infant found dead as a result. In Hong Kong, there are also numerous cases in which the unsafe toys have endangered children’s health. Regarding toys safety, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) in each of the past five years, of the number of (i) proactive inspections (both online and offline) conducted by the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) for the purpose of enforcing the Toys and Children’s Products Safety Ordinance (Cap. 424) (the Ordinance), (ii) reports received and their details (including the names of the substandard toys seized in enforcement actions and their hazardous nature), (iii) prohibition notices served on retailers and wholesalers, and (iv) cases of conviction for contravening the Ordinance and the penalty imposed in each of such cases;

    (2) whether it has compiled statistics, through channels such as schools and the number of visits to accident and emergency departments, on the number of cases involving Hong Kong children suffering from suffocation, acute toxicity and injury due to the inadvertent use of toys in each of the past five years; if so, of the details of each case (including the age of the children involved, the names of toys and whether they have been put on the C&ED’s list concerning “cases of unsafe products” (“the list”), as well as the follow-up actions taken by the C&ED; if not, whether it will consider establishing a notification mechanism to ensure that all the stakeholders (especially parents and teachers) will stay timely informed of toy safety incidents which involve significant social interests and children’s safety;

    (3) given that according to a test report published by the Consumer Council in August 2019, the boron migration of 12 models of slime or putty toys exceeded the recommended upper limit of the European standard, and prolonged exposure to or indirect excessive intake of the substance may result in vomiting or even affect one’s fertility, whether the authorities have prohibited the local sale of relevant toys associated with health risks since the publication of the report; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

    (4) it is learnt that the US Consumer Product Safety Commission intended to impose more stringent regulation on toy aqua beads last year, and members of the public can still purchase such toy aqua beads and other toys on the list through online or offline channels at present, whether the authorities will consider stepping up the regulation of the safety of relevant products as well as banning local sale of certain toys which have caused fatal accidents overseas; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply

    President,

         The Government attaches great importance to ensuring the safety of toys and children’s products and regulates the safety of toys and children’s products which are manufactured, imported or supplied for local consumption, in accordance with the Toys and Children’s Products Safety Ordinance (the Ordinance) (Cap. 424).

         The Ordinance stipulates that a person must not manufacture, import or supply a toy unless the toy complies with all the applicable requirements contained in one of the toy standards (which are international standards or standards adopted by major economies) specified in Schedule 1 to the Ordinance. A person who contravenes the above provision is liable to a maximum penalty of imprisonment for one year and a fine of $100,000 on first conviction and is liable to a maximum penalty of imprisonment for two years and a fine of $500,000 on subsequent conviction.

         The Government keeps in view any amendments to the relevant safety standards so as to update the standards applicable to the toys and children’s products supplied in Hong Kong.

         Moreover, the Toys and Children’s Products Safety (Additional Safety Standards or Requirements) Regulation (the Regulation) stipulates that a toy supplied in Hong Kong must comply with the requirements including the carrying of identification markings (i.e. the full name and address of the manufacturer, importer or supplier) and the bilingual warnings or cautions (with respect to the safe keeping, use, consumption or disposal) applicable to the toy; and the compliance with the requirements on concentration of phthalates contained in a toy.

         As the enforcement agency of the Ordinance, the Customs and Excise Department (C&ED) proactively conducts surveillance in the market and online shopping platforms. Having conducted risk assessment, the C&ED will test-purchase different types of toys and children’s products and pass them to the Government Laboratory for safety tests. Besides, the C&ED will conduct investigations into the complaints received and the cases referred from relevant government departments or organisations and take appropriate enforcement actions based on facts and evidence. In addition, the C&ED will actively follow up information about suspected unsafe toys and children’s products obtained from different sources such as media coverage and measures taken by the Mainland or overseas places against certain toys and children’s products; and the news about product safety issued by law enforcement agencies and institutions of product safety outside Hong Kong.

    Having consulted the C&ED, our reply to various parts of the question is as follows:

    (1) From 2020 to 2024, the C&ED received 68 complaints in relation to toys, conducted more than 7 920 surveillance visits or spot checks and investigated 127 cases. During the above period, the C&ED prosecuted individuals or companies involved in 14 cases. All defendants, including eight persons and six companies, were convicted and fined by the court, with the amount ranging from $3,000 to $32,000. The toys involved in these cases were lanterns, glow sticks, heart-shaped fluorescent toys, projectile toys, puzzle toys, expanding bead toys, squeeze toys, magnetic toys, joint mats, bubble toys and microphone toys. Furthermore, the C&ED issued 32 prohibition notices to prohibit related persons from supplying products that were believed to be unsafe for a specified period of time; and issued 94 warning letters. Meanwhile, the C&ED also conducted 45 blitz checks at boundary control points to combat the import of unsafe toys and children’s products into Hong Kong. The relevant figures categorised by year are listed in the table in the Annex.

    (2) Currently, the C&ED did not compile statistics on cases involving children suffering injuries resulting from the use of unsafe toys through channels such as schools or the number of visits to accident and emergency departments. For cases referred by the relevant government departments or organisations, the C&ED will conduct follow-up investigations as and when appropriate.

    All along, the C&ED has attached great importance to disseminating information about toys safety to the public and traders through various channels, including:
     

    • if any toys with safety issues are identified during investigations, a press statement will be published immediately; and after completion of the investigation, the relevant information will be included in the “cases of unsafe products” in the C&ED’s webpage;
    • striving to carry out compliance promotion for traders to assist the traders in understanding the relevant toy safety requirements of the Ordinance; and
    • organising with the Department of Health toys and children’s products safety talks for the public and for students and parents in schools; and distributing pamphlets about the Ordinance, introducing and sharing safety information of toys and children’s products.

         The C&ED has no plan to establish a specific notification mechanism.

    (3) In the testing report published by the Consumer Council in August 2019, the boron migration level in some of the samples of slime or clay toy exceeded the suggested safety limit of the European Standard. Upon receiving the referral, the C&ED immediately conducted surveillance visits in various districts and test-purchased four different brands of slime or clay toy from the market for safety testing. Test results showed that all the samples complied with the safety standards stipulated in the Ordinance. However, the C&ED found that one sample of slime failed to comply with the identification markings and bilingual warnings or cautions requirements and was suspected to be in contravention of the requirements of the Ordinance. Immediate enforcement action was taken against the retailer concerned and a written warning was subsequently issued to the said retailer.

    (4) Under the Ordinance, manufacturers, importers, and suppliers of water-bead toys are required to ensure that their products comply with all the applicable requirements contained in one of the three toy safety standards specified in Schedule 1 to the Ordinance (i.e. the International Standard ISO 8124, the European Standard BS EN 71 and the American Society for Testing and Materials Standard ASTM F963).

         The C&ED has noted that the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission is considering more stringent regulations for water-bead toys, although these more stringent regulations have not yet been implemented by law. The Government will continue to closely monitor any new requirements for toys safety standards from law enforcement agencies and institutions of product safety outside Hong Kong, and will revise or update the Schedules to the Ordinance as and when appropriate.

    At present, for water-bead toys suspected to be unsafe, the C&ED has actively conducted inspections and test-purchases in various districts to assess their safety, with a view to ensuring that both imported and locally supplied toys have reached a reasonable standard of safety. From 2020 to 2024, the C&ED conducted 29 inspections or targeted spot checks on water-bead toys, received three complaint cases related to water-bead toys and initiated two investigations. In one case, a person was fined in court for supplying water-bead toys exceeding the expandable limit of the safety standard and without bearing the identification markings and bilingual warnings or cautions. In another case, a written warning was issued to a company supplying water-bead toys without bearing the identification markings and bilingual warnings or cautions.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: ‘A Dream Realized’: Mercy Ships Supports First-Of-Its-Kind African Dental Education Symposium

    Source: APO – Report:

    What began as a dream two years ago has now become a reality in Casablanca, Morocco. On July 11 and 12, 2025, representatives from 24 nations across the continent gathered at Université Mohammed VI des Sciences de la Santé (UM6SS) for the inaugural African Dental Education Symposium, which culminated in the creation of the groundbreaking African Education Dental Association (AEDA).

    The need for an association of this kind is pressing, as African nations face a critical shortage of dental professionals. According to the World Health Organization, there are just 0.44 dentists per 10,000 people (https://apo-opa.co/46H8Yv2) in Africa, compared to around 7 per 10,000 (https://apo-opa.co/4f0Tgx6) in many high-income countries. Only 84 dental schools operate (https://apo-opa.co/46H8Yv2) across 26 African nations. This contributes to the fact that, as of 2021, around 42% of Africa’s population have untreated oral diseases.

    The symposium, initiated by Professor Ihsane Benyayha, Dean of the UM6SS Dental School, and supported by international surgical charity Mercy Ships, brought together deans and directors from dental schools across Africa. This gathering, and its successful signing of a new association, marks a new chapter in intentional collaboration and innovation in dental education.

    “I think that we, as African leaders, African professors, African dentists, we can do a lot for our countries. We should help each other. I see that we have an American Dental Education Association, and a European one… Why not an African Education Dental Association?” said Professor Benyayha.

    “We’re at a time where it should no longer be acceptable for any country to have one dentist per 1 million people. Now is the time to solve this issue and overcome it. All the stakeholders and leaders we need are in this room. We need to ask ourselves; how can we take the next step?” said Dr. David Ugai, Mercy Ships Country Director for Guinea.

    The African Dental Education Symposium centered around a clear purpose: to catalyze African nations collaborating in new and dynamic ways to train dental professionals, develop sustainable education programs, and strengthen access to dental health throughout the continent.

    Key to fulfilling this mission is the launch of the African Education Dental Association, modeled after similar associations in the United States and Europe. The association will provide African dental educators with a unified voice, a space for sharing best practices, and a clear structure for long-term collaboration.

    “This is the realization of a great dream… This symposium is a necessity because everyone was in their own countries, working in isolation. But thanks to the symposium, we will be able to join forces, combine efforts, and try to share our points of view. Cooperation between African countries will allow the various dental schools in Africa to speak with one voice,” said Professor Mohamed Siddick Fadiga, Head of the Department of the Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry Dental School in Guinea.

    The symposium also featured international leaders, including the FDI World Dental Federation, the American Dental Education Association, and Association for Dental Education in Europe, offering their support as African deans and program directors take the lead in transforming dental education for the next generation.

    As of 2025, Mercy Ships has partnered with UM6SS to support the training of more than 20 dental professionals from Guinea, Benin, and Madagascar in advanced specialization programs. After graduating, these students will return home equipped to teach, mentor, and expand access to dental care in their own communities.

    “This symposium is the first to my knowledge. It’s the first time I’ve seen so many schools come together in one country to discuss the problems of dental education in Africa. So, it’s quite clear that this symposium is part of the history of dental education in Africa, and I hope it’s just the first of more,” said Professor El Hadj Babacar Mbodj, Dean of UCAD Dental School in Senegal.

    Mercy Ships’ partnerships extend far beyond Morocco. Across Africa, long-term collaboration with universities and ministries of health is helping expand infrastructure, enhance clinical training, and equip faculty to strengthen dental healthcare capacity. These efforts currently span the continent, including:

    • In Guinea, Mercy Ships’ ongoing partnership with Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry (UGANC) has revitalized the nation’s dental education opportunities and renovations have more than doubled the school’s training capacity.
    • In Senegal, an upcoming expansion to the dental school at Universite Cheikh Anta Diop in Dakar will increase clinical training chairs from 30 to over 70.
    • In Togo, Mercy Ships is helping to build the first simulation and clinical training space at the University of Lomé, which first opened a dental program in 2019.
    • In Benin, Mercy Ships is training future educators to reopen the nation’s only dental school, which closed in 2018 due to a lack of specialty professors and infrastructure.
    • In Burkina Faso, a brand-new partnership will support training faculty development at the country’s growing dental school.
    • In Madagascar, Mercy Ships is sponsoring dentists for specialization to become specialists and future national university professors.
    • In Sierra Leone, Guinea-Bissau, and Liberia, Mercy Ships is sponsoring a student exchange program through Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry that will increase access to dental education and expand the dentist workforce in their respective countries.

    “In the school’s years of existence, we have never thought about the next generation of teachers. But thanks to this partnership with Mercy Ships, we have hope for the survival of the school with the continuity of these young graduates who will return with their diplomas to our country. So, this partnership, for us, is very precious,” shared Professor Jeannot Randrianarivony, Dean of the University of Mahajanga Dental School in Madagascar.

    The African Dental Education Symposium reflects the heart of Mercy Ships’ mission: to bring hope and healing through surgical care and education, training, and advocacy. Events like the symposium offer a glimpse into a sustainable future where nations are equipped, educators are empowered, and communities have access to the care they need.

    – on behalf of Mercy Ships.

    For more information about Mercy Ships, contact:
    Eveline Vanduynhoven
    International PR manager – Special Projects
    Mercy Ships
    international.media@mercyships.org

    ABOUT MERCY SHIPS:
    Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with nations in Africa for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact. 

    Each year, more than 2,500 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world’s two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy and the Global Mercy. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit www.MercyShips.org and follow @MercyShips on social media.  

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • Iran parliament rules out resumption of US talks until preconditions are met

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iran’s parliament said the country should not resume nuclear negotiations with the United States until preconditions are met, in a statement reported on Wednesday by Iranian state media.

    “When the U.S. use negotiations as a tool to deceive Iran and cover up a sudden military attack by the Zionist regime (Israel), talks cannot be conducted as before. Preconditions must be set and no new negotiations can take place until they are fully met,” the statement said.

    The statement did not define the preconditions, but Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has previously said there should be guarantees there will be no further attacks against Tehran.

    Israel and the U.S. launched strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities last month, saying that they were part of a programme geared towards developing nuclear weapons. Tehran maintains that its nuclear programme is purely for civilian purposes.

    Tehran and Washington had held five rounds of indirect negotiations mediated by Oman prior to the 12-day air war, with U.S. demands that Tehran drop its domestic uranium enrichment programme reaching a dead end.

    Last week, Araqchi reiterated Tehran’s position that it would not agree to a nuclear deal that prevents it from enriching uranium and would refuse to discuss extra-nuclear topics such as its ballistic missile programme.

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he was in no rush to negotiate with Iran as its nuclear sites were now “obliterated”, but the U.S., in coordination with three European countries, has agreed to set the end of August as the deadline for a deal.

    French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on Tuesday that Paris, London and Berlin would trigger the United Nations sanctions snapback mechanism, which would reimpose international sanctions on Iran, by the end of August if there is no concrete progress regarding an agreement.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jul 16, 2025 0730 UTC Day 3 Severe Thunderstorm Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

     For best viewing experience, please enable browser JavaScript support.

    Jul 16, 2025 0730 UTC Day 3 Severe Thunderstorm Outlook

    Updated: Wed Jul 16 06:45:55 UTC 2025 (Print Version |   |  )

    Probabilistic to Categorical Outlook Conversion Table

     Forecast Discussion

    SPC AC 160645

    Day 3 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0145 AM CDT Wed Jul 16 2025

    Valid 181200Z – 191200Z

    …NO SEVERE THUNDERSTORM AREAS FORECAST…

    …SUMMARY…
    Severe thunderstorm potential appear low/uncertain on Friday.

    …Synopsis…

    Broad, cyclonic upper flow will persist across the northern tier of
    the U.S. on Friday. Meanwhile, the subtropical ridge will intensify
    over the Southeast and southern Plains. A weak shortwave impulse
    and/or MCV is forecast to move from the OH Valley toward the
    Chesapeake Bay vicinity near a stalled surface front. This may
    provide focus for some severe potential Friday afternoon/early
    evening. However, confidence in this scenario is low as prior day’s
    convection will heavily influence convective evolution on Friday.

    Further west, a surface trough/weak lee low development across the
    central High Plains will allow for northward transport of richer
    boundary layer moisture from the southern in the central and
    northern Plains. Forcing mechanisms are unclear, and capping may
    suppress convection. If storms can develop in the warm advection
    regime, some severe potential would be possible given the very moist
    and unstable environment. Large model disparity also is noted in the
    location and evolution of the Plains surface low. Overall the risk
    appears too uncertain/conditional at this time to include
    probabilities.

    ..Leitman.. 07/16/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS03 PTSDY3 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 3 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1930Z

    Top/Latest Day 1 Outlook/Today’s Outlooks/Forecast Products/Home

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jul 16, 2025 0600 UTC Day 2 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    SPC AC 160538

    Day 2 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1238 AM CDT Wed Jul 16 2025

    Valid 171200Z – 181200Z

    …THERE IS A MARGINAL RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS FROM SOUTHERN
    MISSOURI INTO PARTS OF THE OHIO VALLEY…MID-ATLANTIC…AND
    NORTHEAST…

    …SUMMARY…
    Isolated damaging gusts are possible from southern Missouri into the
    Ohio Valley, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast on Thursday.

    …Northeast…

    A shortwave trough is forecast to extend from southern Quebec to
    near Long Island early Thursday. At the surface, low pressure will
    track from Lake Huron northeast along the St. Lawrence Valley. A
    trailing cold front will develop east across the Upper Ohio Valley
    and Northeast during the afternoon and evening. Ahead of the front,
    a very moist airmass will be in place, supporting MLCAPE values from
    around 1000-2000 J/kg.

    While 30-40 kt of westerly flow will overspread portions of the
    Northeast, effective shear will remain modest, but sufficient for
    isolated organized cells (20-30 kt). The surface low is likely to
    remain north of the international border, but the cold front should
    provide some focus for afternoon/evening thunderstorm activity.
    However, subsidence behind the morning shortwave and possibly some
    early day showers and cloud cover could hinder thunderstorm
    development initially. As a result storms may develop a bit further
    south and east than previously forecast, and the Marginal risk
    (level 1 of 5) has been removed for parts of the Upper OH
    Valley/Lower Great Lakes vicinity. Storms that do develop across the
    Northeast still may pose a risk for locally strong gusts, and closer
    to the surface low, a tornado or two.

    …Southern MO/OH Valley to the Mid-Atlantic…

    A seasonally very moist airmass will reside to the south of the
    southward sagging cold front extending from the MO Ozarks into
    southern IL/IN/OH. A corridor of strong instability is expected
    ahead of the front, aided by 70s dewpoints and heating into the mid
    80s to mid 90s. Vertical shear will be much weaker with southward
    extent, but any MCVs from prior day’s convection coupled with the
    sagging cold front, should provide focused for scattered
    thunderstorm development. Thunderstorm clusters will mainly pose a
    risk for strong gusts from water laden downdrafts.

    Additional storms are expected to develop over the higher terrain of
    WV/VA along a surface trough and ahead of the surface cold front. A
    similar environment to that further east will exist (high CAPE, weak
    shear). Thunderstorm clusters may produce isolated strong gusts.

    ..Leitman.. 07/16/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS02 PTSDY2 PRODUCT

    NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 2 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1730Z

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jul 16, 2025 0600 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

     For best viewing experience, please enable browser JavaScript support.

    Jul 16, 2025 0600 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Click to see valid 1Z – 12Z Day 1 Convective Outlook

    Updated: Wed Jul 16 05:36:25 UTC 2025 (Print Version |   |  )

    Probabilistic to Categorical Outlook Conversion Table

     Forecast Discussion

    SPC AC 160536

    Day 1 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1236 AM CDT Wed Jul 16 2025

    Valid 161200Z – 171200Z

    …THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS ON WEDNESDAY OVER
    PARTS OF THE CENTRAL HIGH PLAINS…AND PORTIONS OF THE GREAT LAKES
    REGION….

    …SUMMARY…
    Scattered strong to severe thunderstorms are possible Wednesday
    afternoon and evening from parts of the central High Plains to the
    Great Lakes and Mid-Atlantic states.

    …Upper MS Valley…
    A large but weakening linear MCS is tracking slowly eastward into
    western MN/IA. 00z model consensus shows a convectively enhanced
    upper trough and MCV will emerge from this activity, tracking into
    parts of WI and northern IL by Wednesday afternoon. Strong heating
    and ample low-level moisture will be in place over the warm sector
    of this MCV, but weak mid-level lapse rates will limit CAPE values
    to around 2000 J/kg. Present indications are that thunderstorms
    will intensify by mid-afternoon across this region and spread
    eastward toward Lake Michigan and western Lower MI by evening. The
    strongest cells will pose a risk of damaging wind gusts. Enhanced
    vertical shear near the MCV may also result in a tornado or two.

    …WY/CO…
    The belt of primary mid-level westerlies will extend across WY later
    today, with the southern fringe of stronger flow aloft over northern
    CO. Ample mid-level moisture will encourage scattered afternoon
    thunderstorms over the mountains and foothills of CO/southern WY,
    with storms moving into the adjacent plains by mid-afternoon.
    Backed low-level winds will result in favorable deep-layer shear for
    a few organized/supercell storms capable of large hail and damaging
    winds through the afternoon and early evening.

    …NY/PA/WV…
    Current water vapor loops shows a subtle shortwave trough and weak
    mid-level jet max over southern IL. This feature will track
    northeastward up the OH Valley and into parts of OH/WV/PA by
    Wednesday afternoon. Forcing associated with this feature, combined
    with a warm/humid air mass will promote multiple clusters of
    thunderstorms affecting the region. Forecast soundings show rather
    weak mid-level lapse rates, weak winds in the lowest 4km, and
    considerable mid-level moisture limiting downdraft potential. Will
    therefore maintain only MRGL at this time, but acknowledge some risk
    of scattered wind damage across this region later today.

    ..Hart/Thornton.. 07/16/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

    .html”>Latest Day 2 Outlook/Today’s Outlooks/Forecast Products/Home

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No MDs are in effect as of Wed Jul 16 08:02:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Mesoscale DiscussionsUpdated:  Wed Jul 16 08:18:03 UTC 2025 No Mesoscale Discussions are currently in effect.

    Notice:  The responsibility for Heavy Rain Mesoscale Discussions has been transferred to the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) on April 9, 2013. Click here for the Service Change Notice.
    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC – No watches are valid as of Wed Jul 16 08:02:02 UTC 2025

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Current Convective Watches (View What is a Watch? clip)Updated:  Wed Jul 16 08:20:09 UTC 2025 No watches are currently valid

    Archived Convective ProductsTo view convective products for a previous day, type in the date you wish to retrieve (e.g. 20040529 for May 29, 2004). Data available since January 1, 2004.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: BNP Paribas Primary New Issues: No STAB Notice – Morrisons

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    16th July 2025

    Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.

    MORRISONS EUR & GBP 
    Post-stabilisation Period Announcement

    NO STABILISATION CARRIED OUT

    [Further to the pre-stabilisation period announcement dated 10th July 2025  BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222) hereby gives notice that no stabilisation (within the meaning of Article 3.2(d) of the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014)) was undertaken by the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below in relation to the offer of the following securities.

    Securities

    Issuer:  Morrisons 
    Guarantor(s) (if any): [insert name(s)]
    Aggregate nominal amount: EUR 500,000,000
    GBP 500,000,000
    Description: 6.75% Notes due 31 January 2031
    8.75% Notes due 31 January 2031
    Offer price: 100 /100

    Stabilisation Manager(s)

    Name(s): JOINT GLO CO  BNPP/GS
    bookrunners:  BAML/mizuho/rabo/natwest/lloyds/hsbc/SG/Sant/RBC/ING/DB/Mufg/SMBC 

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

    This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities referred to above have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There has not been and will not be a public offer of the securities in the United States.

         
         
         
         
         

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

    This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities referred to above have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There has not been and will not be a public offer of the securities in the United States.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BNP Paribas Primary New Issues: No STAB Notice – Nexture

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    16 July 2025

    Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.

    NEXTURE SPA  
    Post-stabilisation Period Announcement

    NO STABILISATION CARRIED OUT

    [Further to the pre-stabilisation period announcement dated 15 July 2025 BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222) hereby gives notice that no stabilisation (within the meaning of Article 3.2(d) of the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014)) was undertaken by the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below in relation to the offer of the following securities.

    Securities

    Issuer: NEXTURE Spa
    Guarantor(s) (if any): [insert name(s)]
    Aggregate nominal amount: EUR 425,000,000
    Description: FRN due 30 July 2032
    Offer price: 99.00

    Stabilisation Manager(s)

    Name(s): Joint glo co bookrunners: BNPP/Unicredit
    Bookrunners:  Cacib/ISP/Natixis/UBS

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

    This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities referred to above have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There has not been and will not be a public offer of the securities in the United States.

         
         
         
         
         

    This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

    This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities referred to above have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There has not been and will not be a public offer of the securities in the United States.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jul 16, 2025 Day 4-8 Severe Weather Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Day 4-8 Severe Weather Outlook Issued on Jul 16, 2025

    Updated: Wed Jul 16 07:48:03 UTC 2025

     .

    D4
    Sat, Jul 19, 2025 – Sun, Jul 20, 2025
    D7
    Tue, Jul 22, 2025 – Wed, Jul 23, 2025

    D5
    Sun, Jul 20, 2025 – Mon, Jul 21, 2025
    D8
    Wed, Jul 23, 2025 – Thu, Jul 24, 2025

    D6
    Mon, Jul 21, 2025 – Tue, Jul 22, 2025
    (All days are valid from 12 UTC – 12 UTC the following day)

    Note: A severe weather area depicted in the Day 4-8 period indicates 15%, 30% or higher probability for severe thunderstorms within 25 miles of any point.

    PREDICTABILITY TOO LOW is used to indicate severe storms may be possible based on some model scenarios. However, the location or occurrence of severe storms are in doubt due to: 1) large differences in the deterministic model solutions, 2) large spread in the ensemble guidance, and/or 3) minimal run-to-run continuity.

    POTENTIAL TOO LOW means the threat for a regional area of organized severe storms appears unlikely (i.e., less than 15%) for the forecast day.

     Forecast Discussion

    ZCZC SPCSWOD48 ALL
    ACUS48 KWNS 160745
    SPC AC 160745

    Day 4-8 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0245 AM CDT Wed Jul 16 2025

    Valid 191200Z – 241200Z

    …DISCUSSION…
    A low-amplitude upper trough will move from the Great Lakes through
    the Northeast during the Day 4-5/Sat-Sun period. Some enhanced
    westerly flow aloft and a deepening surface low will accompany this
    system. While forecast guidance varies with timing and location of
    these features, some severe potential could develop from portions of
    the Great Lakes to the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic over the weekend ahead
    of a cold front. Details are still uncertain regarding where a
    better chance for severe storms may develop, precluding
    probabilities.

    By early next week, upper ridging is forecast for much of the CONUS
    east of the Rockies while an upper shortwave trough persists over
    the Northwest. Late in the period, a shortwave impulse may eject
    from the Northwest upper shortwave and move across the northern
    Plains, posing some increasing risk for severe potential, though
    confidence in this scenario remains too low to include an outlook
    area at this time.

    ..Leitman.. 07/16/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS48 PTSD48 PRODUCT

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Jul 16, 2025 Day 4-8 Severe Weather Outlook

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Day 4-8 Severe Weather Outlook Issued on Jul 16, 2025

    Updated: Wed Jul 16 07:48:03 UTC 2025

     .

    D4
    Sat, Jul 19, 2025 – Sun, Jul 20, 2025
    D7
    Tue, Jul 22, 2025 – Wed, Jul 23, 2025

    D5
    Sun, Jul 20, 2025 – Mon, Jul 21, 2025
    D8
    Wed, Jul 23, 2025 – Thu, Jul 24, 2025

    D6
    Mon, Jul 21, 2025 – Tue, Jul 22, 2025
    (All days are valid from 12 UTC – 12 UTC the following day)

    Note: A severe weather area depicted in the Day 4-8 period indicates 15%, 30% or higher probability for severe thunderstorms within 25 miles of any point.

    PREDICTABILITY TOO LOW is used to indicate severe storms may be possible based on some model scenarios. However, the location or occurrence of severe storms are in doubt due to: 1) large differences in the deterministic model solutions, 2) large spread in the ensemble guidance, and/or 3) minimal run-to-run continuity.

    POTENTIAL TOO LOW means the threat for a regional area of organized severe storms appears unlikely (i.e., less than 15%) for the forecast day.

     Forecast Discussion

    ZCZC SPCSWOD48 ALL
    ACUS48 KWNS 160745
    SPC AC 160745

    Day 4-8 Convective Outlook
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    0245 AM CDT Wed Jul 16 2025

    Valid 191200Z – 241200Z

    …DISCUSSION…
    A low-amplitude upper trough will move from the Great Lakes through
    the Northeast during the Day 4-5/Sat-Sun period. Some enhanced
    westerly flow aloft and a deepening surface low will accompany this
    system. While forecast guidance varies with timing and location of
    these features, some severe potential could develop from portions of
    the Great Lakes to the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic over the weekend ahead
    of a cold front. Details are still uncertain regarding where a
    better chance for severe storms may develop, precluding
    probabilities.

    By early next week, upper ridging is forecast for much of the CONUS
    east of the Rockies while an upper shortwave trough persists over
    the Northwest. Late in the period, a shortwave impulse may eject
    from the Northwest upper shortwave and move across the northern
    Plains, posing some increasing risk for severe potential, though
    confidence in this scenario remains too low to include an outlook
    area at this time.

    ..Leitman.. 07/16/2025

    CLICK TO GET WUUS48 PTSD48 PRODUCT

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: First-hand view of peacemaking challenge in the ‘Holy Land’

    Occupied West Bank-based New Zealand journalist Cole Martin asks who are the peacemakers?

    BEARING WITNESS: By Cole Martin

    As a Kiwi journalist living in the occupied West Bank, I can list endless reasons why there is no peace in the “Holy Land”.

    I live in a refugee camp, alongside families who were expelled from their homes by Israel’s violent establishment in 1948 — never allowed to return and repeatedly targeted by Israeli military incursions.

    Daily I witness suffocating checkpoints, settler attacks against rural towns, arbitrary imprisonment with no charge or trial, a crippled economy, expansion of illegal settlements, demolition of entire communities, genocidal rhetoric, and continued expulsion.

    No form of peace can exist within an active system of domination. To talk about peace without liberation and dignity is to suggest submission to a system of displacement, imprisonment, violence and erasure.

    I often find myself alongside a variety of peacemakers, putting themselves on the line to end these horrific systems — let me outline the key groups:

    Palestinian civil society and individuals have spent decades committed to creative non-violence in the face of these atrocities — from court battles to academia, education, art, co-ordinating demonstrations, general strikes, hīkoi (marches), sit-ins, civil disobedience. Google “Iqrit village”, “The Great March of Return”, “Tent of Nations farm”. These are the overlooked stories that don’t make catchy headlines.

    Protective Presence activists are a mix of about 150 Israeli and international civilians who volunteer their days and nights physically accompanying Palestinian communities. They aim to prevent Israeli settler violence, state-sanctioned home demolitions, and military/police incursions. They document the injustice and often face violence and arrest themselves. Foreigners face deportation and blacklisting — as a journalist I was arrested and barred from the West Bank short-term and my passport was withheld for more than a month.

    Reconciliation organisations have been working for decades to bridge the disconnect between political narratives and human realities. The effective groups don’t seek “co-existence” but “co-resistance” because they recognise there can be no peace within an active system of apartheid. They reiterate that dialogue alone achieves nothing while the Israeli regime continues to murder, displace and steal. Yes there are “opposing narratives”, but they do not have equal legitimacy when tested against the reality on the ground.

    Journalists continue to document and report key developments, chilling statistics and the human cost. They ensure people are seen. Over 200 journalists have been killed in Gaza. High-profile Palestinian Christian journalist Shireen Abu-Akleh was killed by Israeli forces in 2022. They continue reporting despite the risk, and without their courage world leaders wouldn’t know which undeniable facts to brazenly ignore.

    Humanitarians serve and protect the most vulnerable, treating and rescuing people selflessly. More than 400 aid workers and 1000 healthcare workers have been killed in Gaza. All 38 hospitals have been destroyed or damaged, with just a small number left partially functioning. NGOs have been crippled by USAID cuts and targeted Israeli policies, marked by a mass exodus of expats who have spent years committed to this region — severing a critical lifeline for Palestinian communities.

    All these groups emphasise change will not come from within. Protective Presence barely stems the flow.

    Reconciliation means nothing while the system continues to displace, imprison and slaughter Palestinians en masse. Journalism, non-violence and humanitarian efforts are only as effective as the willingness of states to uphold international law.

    Those on the frontlines of peacebuilding express the urgent need for global accountability across all sectors; economic, cultural and political sanctions. Systems of apartheid do not stem from corrupt leadership or several extremists, but from widespread attitudes of supremacy and nationalism across civil society.

    Boycotts increase the economic cost of maintaining such systems. Divestment sends a strong financial message that business as usual is unacceptable.

    Many other groups across the world are picketing weapons manufacturers, writing to elected leaders, educating friends and family, challenging harmful narratives, fundraising aid to keep people alive.

    Where are the peacemakers? They’re out on the streets. They’re people just like you and me.

    Cole Martin is an independent New Zealand photojournalist based in the occupied West Bank and a contributor to Asia Pacific Report. This article was first published by the Otago Daily Times and is republished with permission.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –