Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
British investment boost in Ukraine to benefit both countries
British investment boost in Ukraine to support security and prosperity of both countries
New UK package of support for Ukraine’s immediate and longer-term needs at Ukraine Recovery Conference.
UK and Ukraine conclude historic deal for Thales Air Defence missiles, boosting British growth and jobs and keeping Ukraine in the fight.
UK also confirms up to £283 million in bilaterial assistance for Ukraine over the next year.
Two hundred British jobs will be created and another 700 safeguarded in a major defence deal between the UK and Ukraine to be signed at this year’s Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC).
The jobs at Thales in Belfast come as the UK and Ukraine successfully conclude the largest export credit agency-backed deal in Ukraine.
Supported by a £2.5 billion guarantee with a 19-year financing agreement, the funds can now be released. This enables the delivery of more than 5000 Air Defence missiles from British business Thales – in what is not only a major boost to the UK’s defence capabilities but will also keep Ukraine in the fight, boosting their defence against Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion.
Representing the Prime Minister at the conference, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Minister for Exports Gareth Thomas will formally sign the agreement with the Government of Ukraine, marking a key milestone in the UK-Ukraine defence cooperation.
The deal delivers on this Government’s Plan for Change, by spending more on defence and creating jobs we will keep the country safe and boost economic growth.
In a speech at the conference in Rome, the Deputy Prime Minister will also reaffirm the UK’s bilateral assistance to Ukraine for the financial year 2025-2026 of up to £283 million. This will keep the country in the fight and ensure Ukrainians living through Russia’s illegal full-scale invasion have access to vital support across humanitarian, energy, stabilisation, reform, recovery and reconstruction needs.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:
As we continue to witness the enduring strength of the Ukrainian people, the UK stands by their side to provide the assistance their country needs to not only stay in the fight, but to rebuild and recover.
This announcement underlines our continued support for Ukraine – boosting their air defences against devastating drone and missile attacks and supporting the critical work to reconstruct this nation and provide the hope that they need.
This will also provide skilled jobs in the UK and is all part of our Plan for Change – bolstering the UK defence industry and strengthening our international ties.
Minister for Services, Small Business and Exports Gareth Thomas said on the Thales deal:
This landmark agreement is a powerful example of how British expertise is supporting Ukraine’s defence and recovery while creating high-quality jobs at home.
By unlocking UKEF-backed finance, we’re enabling the delivery of vital equipment to Ukraine and strengthening our own defence industrial base.
It’s a clear demonstration of our Plan for Change in action—backing British business, boosting exports, and standing shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.”
The UK will provide up to £10.5 million for the Governance Reform Programme and up to £1 million in support of Ukraine’s Green Transition Office in financial year 2025 to 2026 to help Ukraine reform for the future. £10.5 million will go towards efforts on rule of law, justice and anti-corruption while £1 million will fund work on green transition and energy, both supporting Ukraine on its path to becoming a prosperous, green and modern European nation.
During the conference, British International Investment (BII) will also confirm €30 million for MHP, a leading Ukrainian agribusiness. MHP employs over 30,000 people in Ukraine, with more than 40% being women. The loan will help them to safeguard jobs and boost resilience in the food and agriculture sectors during Russia’s full-scale invasion. MHP, Ukraine’s largest poultry and processed meat producer, exports to over 70 countries.
Underpinning much of these efforts, the UK will endorse the Government of Ukraine’s insurance agreement. This initiative seeks to make insurance more affordable and widely accessible for businesses, including those in the UK, helping to derisk their investments into Ukraine.
The UK is committed to supporting Ukraine win the war and the peace, emerging as a stronger, more prosperous and free nation, resilient to Russian threats. Our 100 Year Partnership, alongside the commitments made at URC, reaffirm the UK’s iron-clad support for Ukraine now and into the future.
In total, the UK has committed £18.3 billion for Ukraine with £13 billion in military support and £5.3 billion in non-military support.
Background:
More information on the UK’s overall support to Ukraine can be found here.
The £10.5 million and £1 million funding commitments sit within the £283 million for the financial year 2025-2026.
The UK and Ukraine will sign the UKEF financing agreement on Thales, with representatives from both governments formalizing the deal’s conclusion at URC.
The BII investment will be funded from capital the UK Government has already provided (£250 million) to support BII’s expansion into Ukraine.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent five-nation official visit .
“Under your able leadership, India is growing fast and getting stronger. Your recent 5-nation official visit is a testimony to India’s rising clout and stature,” said Rajnath Singh in a message addressed to PM Modi on the social media platform X.
Earlier, PM Modi extended greetings to Rajnath Singh on his birthday, while the latter thanked all his party colleagues for their wishes and motivational words.
“Pradhanmantriji, thank you for your good wishes and motivating words,” said the Defence Minister.
In his birthday wishes, PM Modi said, “Best wishes to Union Minister Shri Rajnath Singh Ji on his birthday. He’s distinguished himself for his hardworking nature and wisdom. His efforts to make India self-reliant in defence and strengthen our armed forces are commendable. Praying for his long and healthy life.”
he Prime Minister began his tour with a visit to Ghana on July 2-3- the first by an Indian Prime Minister to the West African nation in over three decades. In Accra, he held bilateral talks with President John Mahama to review the existing partnership and explore new areas of cooperation in economic development, defence, maritime security, energy, and critical minerals. Both leaders agreed to elevate ties to a Comprehensive Partnership. President Mahama also conferred on PM Modi The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, the country’s highest civilian award.
On July 3-4, PM Modi travelled to Trinidad and Tobago– the first Prime Ministerial visit since 1999. He met Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and addressed the Parliament. During the visit, India announced that Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards will now be issued to the sixth generation of the Indian diaspora in the Caribbean nation. PM Modi was also honoured with The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the nation’s highest civilian honour.
The third leg of the tour took PM Modi to Argentina on July 4-5- the first standalone bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the South American country in nearly six decades. He held discussions with President Javier Milei to strengthen cooperation in defence, agriculture, mining, energy, trade, and investment. Describing the visit as productive, PM Modi said the talks would help deepen India-Argentina ties. He was also presented with the Key to the City of Buenos Aires by the city’s Chief, Jorge Macri.
In the fourth leg of his visit, Prime Minister Modi attended the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from July 6 to 7. He then travelled to Brasília, the capital of Brazil, for a State Visit and held bilateral talks with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The two leaders discussed ways to expand the Strategic Partnership between India and Brazil in areas such as trade, defence, energy, space, technology, agriculture, health, and people-to-people exchanges. During the visit, President Lula conferred on Prime Minister Modi Brazil’s highest civilian honour, The Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross.
In the final leg of his tour on July 9, Prime Minister Modi visited Namibia – marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 27 years. He addressed the Namibian Parliament, where he received a standing ovation from the members. During the visit, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah conferred upon him The Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis, Namibia’s highest civilian honour.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent five-nation official visit .
“Under your able leadership, India is growing fast and getting stronger. Your recent 5-nation official visit is a testimony to India’s rising clout and stature,” said Rajnath Singh in a message addressed to PM Modi on the social media platform X.
Earlier, PM Modi extended greetings to Rajnath Singh on his birthday, while the latter thanked all his party colleagues for their wishes and motivational words.
“Pradhanmantriji, thank you for your good wishes and motivating words,” said the Defence Minister.
In his birthday wishes, PM Modi said, “Best wishes to Union Minister Shri Rajnath Singh Ji on his birthday. He’s distinguished himself for his hardworking nature and wisdom. His efforts to make India self-reliant in defence and strengthen our armed forces are commendable. Praying for his long and healthy life.”
he Prime Minister began his tour with a visit to Ghana on July 2-3- the first by an Indian Prime Minister to the West African nation in over three decades. In Accra, he held bilateral talks with President John Mahama to review the existing partnership and explore new areas of cooperation in economic development, defence, maritime security, energy, and critical minerals. Both leaders agreed to elevate ties to a Comprehensive Partnership. President Mahama also conferred on PM Modi The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, the country’s highest civilian award.
On July 3-4, PM Modi travelled to Trinidad and Tobago– the first Prime Ministerial visit since 1999. He met Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and addressed the Parliament. During the visit, India announced that Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards will now be issued to the sixth generation of the Indian diaspora in the Caribbean nation. PM Modi was also honoured with The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the nation’s highest civilian honour.
The third leg of the tour took PM Modi to Argentina on July 4-5- the first standalone bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the South American country in nearly six decades. He held discussions with President Javier Milei to strengthen cooperation in defence, agriculture, mining, energy, trade, and investment. Describing the visit as productive, PM Modi said the talks would help deepen India-Argentina ties. He was also presented with the Key to the City of Buenos Aires by the city’s Chief, Jorge Macri.
In the fourth leg of his visit, Prime Minister Modi attended the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from July 6 to 7. He then travelled to Brasília, the capital of Brazil, for a State Visit and held bilateral talks with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The two leaders discussed ways to expand the Strategic Partnership between India and Brazil in areas such as trade, defence, energy, space, technology, agriculture, health, and people-to-people exchanges. During the visit, President Lula conferred on Prime Minister Modi Brazil’s highest civilian honour, The Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross.
In the final leg of his tour on July 9, Prime Minister Modi visited Namibia – marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 27 years. He addressed the Namibian Parliament, where he received a standing ovation from the members. During the visit, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah conferred upon him The Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis, Namibia’s highest civilian honour.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent five-nation official visit .
“Under your able leadership, India is growing fast and getting stronger. Your recent 5-nation official visit is a testimony to India’s rising clout and stature,” said Rajnath Singh in a message addressed to PM Modi on the social media platform X.
Earlier, PM Modi extended greetings to Rajnath Singh on his birthday, while the latter thanked all his party colleagues for their wishes and motivational words.
“Pradhanmantriji, thank you for your good wishes and motivating words,” said the Defence Minister.
In his birthday wishes, PM Modi said, “Best wishes to Union Minister Shri Rajnath Singh Ji on his birthday. He’s distinguished himself for his hardworking nature and wisdom. His efforts to make India self-reliant in defence and strengthen our armed forces are commendable. Praying for his long and healthy life.”
he Prime Minister began his tour with a visit to Ghana on July 2-3- the first by an Indian Prime Minister to the West African nation in over three decades. In Accra, he held bilateral talks with President John Mahama to review the existing partnership and explore new areas of cooperation in economic development, defence, maritime security, energy, and critical minerals. Both leaders agreed to elevate ties to a Comprehensive Partnership. President Mahama also conferred on PM Modi The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, the country’s highest civilian award.
On July 3-4, PM Modi travelled to Trinidad and Tobago– the first Prime Ministerial visit since 1999. He met Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and addressed the Parliament. During the visit, India announced that Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards will now be issued to the sixth generation of the Indian diaspora in the Caribbean nation. PM Modi was also honoured with The Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the nation’s highest civilian honour.
The third leg of the tour took PM Modi to Argentina on July 4-5- the first standalone bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the South American country in nearly six decades. He held discussions with President Javier Milei to strengthen cooperation in defence, agriculture, mining, energy, trade, and investment. Describing the visit as productive, PM Modi said the talks would help deepen India-Argentina ties. He was also presented with the Key to the City of Buenos Aires by the city’s Chief, Jorge Macri.
In the fourth leg of his visit, Prime Minister Modi attended the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from July 6 to 7. He then travelled to Brasília, the capital of Brazil, for a State Visit and held bilateral talks with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The two leaders discussed ways to expand the Strategic Partnership between India and Brazil in areas such as trade, defence, energy, space, technology, agriculture, health, and people-to-people exchanges. During the visit, President Lula conferred on Prime Minister Modi Brazil’s highest civilian honour, The Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross.
In the final leg of his tour on July 9, Prime Minister Modi visited Namibia – marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 27 years. He addressed the Namibian Parliament, where he received a standing ovation from the members. During the visit, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah conferred upon him The Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis, Namibia’s highest civilian honour.
CHANDLER, Ariz., July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Continuing to support the evolving needs of space system developers, Microchip Technology (Nasdaq: MCHP) has announced two new milestones for its Radiation-Tolerant (RT) PolarFire® technology: MIL-STD-883 Class B and QML Class Q qualification of the RT PolarFire RTPF500ZT FPGA and availability of engineering samples for the RT PolarFire System-on-Chip (SoC) FPGA. These achievements underscore the company’s more than 60 years of spaceflight heritage and its commitment to delivering highly reliable, low-power solutions for the most demanding space applications.
MIL-STD-883 Class B and Qualified Manufacturers List (QML) Class Q are industry standards that define rigorous testing and qualification processes for microelectronic components used in high-reliability applications, such as space and defense. MIL-STD-883, developed by the U.S. Department of Defense, outlines methods for environmental, mechanical and electrical testing to ensure device reliability under extreme conditions. QML Class Q, managed by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), certifies that manufacturers consistently produce components meeting these stringent requirements.
Unlike traditional SRAM-based FPGAs, RT PolarFire devices utilize nonvolatile technology, making them immune to configuration memory upsets caused by radiation. This eliminates the need for external mitigation measures, helping reduce system complexity and overall cost. RT PolarFire FPGAs consume up to 50% less power than mid-range SRAM-based alternatives, enabling satellite designers to optimize Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) without compromising mission-critical reliability. The PolarFire RTPF500ZT FPGA advances the family’s capabilities, offering enhanced Single Event Latch-up (SEL) radiation performance and increased robustness for inflight programming compared to the original RTPF500T.
“Microchip Technology has a proven track record of supporting critical space missions, spanning low Earth orbit, satellite platforms and deep space exploration,” said Shakeel Peera, vice president of marketing and strategy for Microchip’s FPGA business unit. “Our commitment to stringent quality standards, compliance with international regulations and long-term product reliability has solidified Microchip’s reputation as a trusted provider of aerospace hardware. As the industry demands higher performance, increased logic density and robust security, we remain dedicated to innovating solutions that address the evolving needs of modern space systems.”
Engineering samples of the RT PolarFire SoC FPGA further strengthen Microchip’s portfolio of space-qualified solutions. This SoC integrates a real-time, Linux®-capable, RISC-V®-based microprocessor subsystem with a flight-proven FPGA architecture, enabling both flexible software support and deterministic real-time performance. With a roadmap to QML Class V and Class Y, the RT PolarFire SoC FPGA is well suited for central satellite processing, avionics and payload control where high reliability is essential.
RT PolarFire devices are supported by the Libero® SoC Design Suite, a comprehensive IP library, reference designs and solution stacks tailored for space applications. RT PolarFire SoC FPGAs also integrate with Microchip’s Mi-V ecosystem for RISC-V development. Additionally, development kits and hardware platforms are available to facilitate rapid prototyping, hardware validation and system integration, enabling engineers to efficiently bring mission-critical space systems from concept to deployment.
Microchip’s latest milestones in radiation-tolerant FPGA technology reflect ongoing progress in addressing the stringent requirements of contemporary space missions. With a focus on continuous improvement and industry collaboration, the company is well positioned to support the next generation of satellite, avionics and deep space systems. Additional information, technical documentation, and development resources can be found on the Microchip radiation-tolerant FPGA website.
About Microchip Technology: Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of smart, connected and secure embedded control and processing solutions. Its easy-to-use development tools and comprehensive product portfolio enable customers to create optimal designs which reduce risk while lowering total system cost and time to market. The company’s solutions serve over 100,000 customers across the industrial, automotive, consumer, aerospace and defense, communications and computing markets. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Microchip offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery and quality. For more information, visit the Microchip website at www.microchip.com.
Note: The Microchip name and logo, the Microchip logo, Libero and PolarFire are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective companies.
Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
BEIJING, July 9 — Recently, the 23rd Chinese Peacekeeping Multi-Role Engineering Company to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) passed the UN equipment inspection withhigh standards.
The equipment inspection is conducted under the requirements of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the UN with the troop-contributing countries to assess whether the peacekeeping troops’ weapons, equipment, and facilities meet corresponding standards.
The inspection team, composed of more than ten members dispatched by the UNIFIL headquarters, thoroughly inspected over 10,000 pieces of equipment in 27 categories including weapons and ammunition, vehicles, mine-clearing equipment, and medical equipment.
Since its deployment, the 23rd Chinese Peacekeeping Multi-Role Engineering Company to UNIFIL has completed minefield clearing, road barrier removal, medical assistance, and various other tasks, contributing to maintaining world peace with concrete actions.
Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
BEIJING, July 10 — The 8th International Defense Forum hosted by the National Defense University (NDU) of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) kicked off in Beijing recently. More than 200 military and civilian scholars from nearly 100 countries participated in the forum. Under the theme of “International Security Cooperation amid Interweaving Turbulence and Changes”, the forum focused on three topics including the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN and maintaining world peace, international and regional security amid interweaving turmoil, and new paths and initiatives for global and regional security governance.
Through forms such as keynote speeches, sub-topic presentations, group discussions, and plenary discussions and interactions, the participants had exchanges on the joint promotion of peaceful development, artificial intelligence (AI) and future warfare, Global Security Initiative (GSI), China’s solutions to global security challenges, and other topics.
Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
BEIJING, July 10 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday that China is ready to work with other countries in building a global network for dialogue and cooperation among civilizations.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, made the statement in a congratulatory letter to the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting, which opened in Beijing.
He pledged that China will work with other countries to champion equality, mutual learning, dialogue and inclusiveness among civilizations, and implement the Global Civilization Initiative, in a bid to provide fresh impetus for advancing human civilizations and promoting world peace and development.
“The world is, in nature, a place of diverse civilizations,” Xi said in the letter. “History has shown us that exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations are essential for civilizations to flourish and human progress to be made.”
In a world where transformations and turbulences are interwoven and humanity stands at a new crossroads, there is an ever-pressing need for civilizations to transcend estrangement through exchanges, and to transcend clashes through mutual learning, Xi said.
He also expressed his hope that participating representatives would engage in in-depth exchanges to build consensus and contribute their wisdom and strength to the goal of promoting understanding and friendship among peoples, and achieving harmonious coexistence among civilizations.
Themed “Safeguarding Diversity of Human Civilizations for World Peace and Development,” the two-day meeting is co-hosted by the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee and the International Department of the CPC Central Committee.
Three dams have been constructed in Mai-Mne sub-zone, Southern Region, at a cost of over 20 million Nakfa. The construction was carried out through a joint effort by the Southern Region administration and members of the Defense Forces.
The dams, with capacities of 250,000, 85,000, and 75,000 cubic meters respectively, are expected to make a significant contribution to the provision of water for both the population and livestock in the areas.
Engineer Gebreselasie Semere, coordinator of the project, stated that the primary goal of the dam construction is to ensure a sustainable supply of potable water for the Mai-Mne semi-urban center. The dams will also support the development of irrigation-based farming.
Lt. Col. Abraham Haile, administrator of the sub-zone, highlighted the role of the dams in ensuring access to clean water and advancing development programs. He also praised the contributions of Government institutions and the public in completing the construction.
Mai-Mne sub-zone, which includes 76 villages, is located 90 kilometers south of Mendefera city.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.
Ahead of the 30th anniversary of the massacre in Srebrenica more than 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys were killed by the Bosnian Serb Army, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for Europe, Dinushika Dissanayake, said:
“As we mark this solemn milestone and honour the memory of the victims, we also pay tribute to their families and to organizations like Mothers of Srebrenica, who spent the last three decades in tireless pursuit of truth, justice and reparations.
“While many perpetrators have been brought to justice, the anniversary is a painful reminder that nearly 1,000 people presumed killed in Srebrenica in 1995 are still missing. Their families continue to live without answers, unable to lay their loved ones to rest or gain any real sense of closure.
This anniversary is a painful reminder that nearly 1,000 people presumed killed in Srebrenica are still missing
“As families grapple with enduring trauma, they are facing renewed efforts by senior officials in parts of the region to deny the crimes and glorify individuals convicted of genocide and crimes against humanity. The denial of genocide is not only a profound insult to victims and families, it is also a rejection of the definitive rulings by international courts that established beyond doubt that the acts committed in Srebrenica constituted genocide.”
Background
In July 1995, units of the Bosnian Serb Army (‘VRS’) attacked Srebrenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, which was a designated UN “safe area”. On 10-11 July 1995, more than 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys were taken prisoner and subsequently killed by the Bosnian Serb Army, despite the presence of UN peacekeepers.
In 2007, the International Court of Justice ruled that the Srebrenica massacre was a genocide. While the bodies of more than 7,000 victims have been exhumed, identified and buried, more than 1,000 people are still missing or unidentified.
Despite high-level prosecutions, including Ratko Mladic and Radovan Karadzic, there is still a huge backlog of cases pending before domestic courts in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
In May 2024, the UN General Assembly designated 11 July as the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica.
On 16 July, the Danish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Troels LUND POULSEN, will present the Danish Presidency priorities to strengthen European defence and sustain military support to Ukraine. This will include finishing the work started with the European Parliament on the European Defence Industry Programme and other new defence-related legislative proposals.
On the same day, the Members will be debriefed by the NATO Deputy Secretary General, Radmila SHEKERINSKA, on the outcome of the recent NATO Summit in The Hague, where historic commitments have been made to increase defence spending and to achieving new capability targets by 2035.
On 16 July, the Danish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Troels LUND POULSEN, will present the Danish Presidency priorities to strengthen European defence and sustain military support to Ukraine. This will include finishing the work started with the European Parliament on the European Defence Industry Programme and other new defence-related legislative proposals.
On the same day, the Members will be debriefed by the NATO Deputy Secretary General, Radmila SHEKERINSKA, on the outcome of the recent NATO Summit in The Hague, where historic commitments have been made to increase defence spending and to achieving new capability targets by 2035.
On 16 July, the Danish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Troels LUND POULSEN, will present the Danish Presidency priorities to strengthen European defence and sustain military support to Ukraine. This will include finishing the work started with the European Parliament on the European Defence Industry Programme and other new defence-related legislative proposals.
On the same day, the Members will be debriefed by the NATO Deputy Secretary General, Radmila SHEKERINSKA, on the outcome of the recent NATO Summit in The Hague, where historic commitments have been made to increase defence spending and to achieving new capability targets by 2035.
NEW YORK, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CLEAR (NYSE: YOU), an official TSA PreCheck® enrollment provider, is participating in the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease initiative to provide discounted TSA PreCheck enrollment fees for military spouses and free enrollment for family members of service members who died in the line of duty or as a result of service-connected injury or illness–referred to as Gold Star families.
A $25 enrollment discount will be applied for spouses of currently serving uniformed service members—recognizing the frequent travel burdens tied to military life. Additionally, Gold Star families will receive free TSA PreCheck–a tribute to those who have lost loved ones in military service.
“At CLEAR, we believe in showing up for people who show up for all of us,” said Caryn Seidman Becker, CEO of CLEAR. “We’re proud to support the TSA’s Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease initiative by making it easier for military families to access the benefits of TSA PreCheck. Whether it’s a military spouse managing multiple moves or a Gold Star family traveling in memory of a loved one, we’re honored to make predictable travel more accessible for military families.”
Additionally, CLEAR is bringing mobile enrollment units to major military installations, reducing travel burdens for eligible families. This effort ensures that enrollment is as accessible as possible, especially for families living on or near military bases.
TSA PreCheck members benefit from the convenience of keeping shoes, belts and light jackets on through the airport security checkpoint and keeping laptops and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in carry-on bags.
New TSA PreCheck applicants can pre-enroll or find an enrollment location by visiting CLEAR’s authorized TSA PreCheck website, https://tsaprecheckbyclear.tsa.dhs.gov/. Most existing TSA PreCheck members can renew directly on the website, regardless of the provider they enrolled with originally.
Uniformed Service members and civilian U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) personnel will still continue to be eligible for free TSA PreCheck screening benefits by using their DOD ID as their Known Traveler Number.
About TSA PreCheck® TSA PreCheck is a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Trusted Traveler program that allows enrolled travelers expedited screening through airport security. TSA PreCheck lanes are located at over 200 airports with over 90 airlines participating. Since TSA first launched the TSA PreCheck application program as a DHS Trusted Traveler Program for low-risk travelers in December 2013, active membership in the program has grown to more than 22 million members.
About CLEAR CLEAR’s mission is to strengthen security and create frictionless experiences. With over 31 million Members and a growing network of partners across the world, CLEAR’s identity platform is transforming the way people live, work, and travel. Whether you are traveling, at the stadium, or on your phone, CLEAR connects you to the things that make you, you – making everyday experiences easier, more secure, and friction-free. CLEAR is committed to privacy done right. Members are always in control of their own information, and we never sell Member data. For more information, visit clearme.com.
Forward-Looking Statements This release may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that any and such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or results and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results, developments and events may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including those described in the Company’s filings within the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the sections titled “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10- K. The Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained herein.
On 14 and 15 July, Parliament will host the 107th Rose-Roth Seminar in partnership with the NATO Parliamentary Assembly (NATO PA).
This high-level seminar, entitled “EU-NATO Cooperation: Essential Partnership and Democratic Resilience”, will gather MEPs, NATO member state parliamentarians, European Commissioners, experts, and policy makers.
WHEN: Monday 14 and Tuesday 15 July 2025.
WHERE: Room 1A002 in the European Parliament’s Spaak building, Brussels.
The event will focus on the current state of EU-NATO cooperation. More specifically, participants will explore how the partnership can strengthen resilience against intensifying hybrid warfare, disinformation, and foreign interference, and boost defence capabilities and preparedness. In addition, discussions will address the importance of building global alliances to protect democracy, with a focus on specific regions such as Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans.
Other prominent speakers addressing those gathered include:
NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmila Shekerinska;
Commission Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy Henna Virkkunen;
Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos;
Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius;
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, national leader of Belarus and Head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus.
Livestreaming and photos of the meetings will be available via the Multimedia Centre.
Media accreditation
The event is only open to press and media accredited by the European Parliament. Rules for media accreditation press@nato-pa.int.
The NATO Parliamentary Assembly
The NATO PA is a transatlantic forum that brings together 281 parliamentarians from NATO’s 32 member states. While independent from NATO, it serves as a link between the Alliance and its citizens through their elected representatives. For more information, visit the NATO PA website.
In the mist-laden hills of Himachal Pradesh, where breathtaking landscapes have turned into scenes of devastation, the Indian Army has emerged as a vital support system for flood-affected villages grappling with nature’s fury.
Relentless rain and floods have battered Mandi district, severely impacting remote villages such as Thunag, Degi, Rushad and Chapad. With roads blocked, communication lines disrupted and entire communities cut off, the Army’s relief columns have become a lifeline for hundreds of stranded families.
Since July 6, Indian Army personnel have been working round the clock alongside the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local authorities. Despite patchy mobile coverage in the hilly terrain, the soldiers have maintained close coordination with the civil administration to deliver urgent assistance where it is needed most.
Army medics have set up makeshift camps near damaged homes, providing essential medical care and distributing ration kits to affected families. Relief material has already reached isolated villages, with aid supplies delivered to Degi on July 7, Rushad on July 8 and Chapad on July 9.
To ensure continuous operational connectivity in areas where mobile signals are weak or unavailable, satellite communications through ISAT phones and other advanced systems have been deployed.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is expected to visit Thunag soon to review the ongoing relief work, while the Brigade Commander is in Mandi to oversee operations and coordinate further support. A meeting with the Chief Minister and Deputy Commissioner of Mandi is also planned to streamline response efforts.
Rollout of military veterans’ pension to resume once review process completed
The Department of Military Veterans (DMV) has announced that the rollout of the military veterans’ pension will continue once a review process is completed.
This decision comes after approximately 300 military veterans expressed concerns about delays in receiving their pensions.
“We acknowledge the hardship faced by military veterans and recognise their frustration. This benefit is a vital intervention aimed at restoring dignity and improving the quality of life of those who served this country with honour,” the statement read.
However, the department emphasised the need to clarify that the delays were caused by the budgetary constraints that currently affect it.
“It has become evident that the regulations governing the disbursement of the military veterans’ pension need to be reviewed. Once this process is complete, the department will resume the rollout of the military veterans’ pension, ensuring that deserving military veterans receive the financial assistance they are entitled to.”
Since the implementation of this benefit in November 2023, the department said over 4 378 military veterans have successfully received their military veterans’ pensions.
The department said it continues to work closely with the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA) to process and pay new beneficiaries as they are verified.
“In the future, we appeal to military veterans to engage directly with the GPAA to check on the status of their applications and to raise any challenges so that they can be addressed timeously. We remain committed to upholding the dignity of all military veterans.”
Last week, the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans expressed concern at the ongoing challenges faced by military veterans, many of whom remain in limbo due to delays in receiving their service-related benefits.
The committee also expressed concerns regarding the DMV’s lack of a functioning internal audit unit, an essential tool for ensuring financial accountability and risk management.
“The committee highlighted the need for urgent intervention by the executive to turn around the DMV, starting with the appointment of a permanent Director-General, re-evaluating the organisational structure, addressing the findings of the Auditor-General, and developing a more responsive department.” – SAnews.gov.za
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
SEOUL, July 10 (Xinhua) — The Seoul Central District Court has issued an arrest warrant for former South Korean President Yoon Seok-yeol in connection with the martial law case last December, the Renhap News Agency reported. This is the politician’s second arrest in the investigation.
The court issued the arrest warrant after a hearing on the request of special prosecutor Cho Eun-seok.
Yun Seok-yul faces five charges, including violating the rights of cabinet members by preventing most of them from attending a key meeting before martial law was declared on Dec. 3.
The former president is also accused of fabricating a document after martial law was declared and forcing then-Prime Minister and Defense Minister Han Deok-soo and Kim Yong-hyun to sign it.
Additional charges include spreading false statements to foreign media, directing aides to obstruct the politician’s arrest in January and ordering the deletion of call records from secure phones.
Yun Seok-yeol denied all charges during the hearing and was later taken to a detention center in Uiwang, south of the capital.
The former president was first arrested in January this year but was released in March after the Seoul Central District Court overturned his detention. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte met Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin on Wednesday (9 July 2025), thanking him for Germany’s leading role in the Alliance, and its support to Ukraine.
Mr Rutte commended Germany’s resolve, commitment and contributions to our shared security, and its landmark decision to invest significantly more in defence. Highlighting the importance of Germany’s defence industrial base, he said, “your world-class industries and entrepreneurs are capable to ramp up production, innovate and deliver”.
At a ceremony marking the 70th anniversary of Germany’s accession to NATO, the Secretary General thanked Germany for its contributions to the Alliance. Speaking in German, and echoing the words of Germany’s first Chancellor, Konrad Adenauer, Mr Rutte recognised that Germany continues to be an “able and reliable” Ally, ready to take on more responsibility. “When the world becomes more dangerous, and our security is at stake – Germany steps up,” Mr Rutte said.
While in Berlin, Mr Rutte also met President of the Bundestag Julia Klöckner, Minister for Foreign Affairs Johann Wadephul, parliamentarians from the Defence Committee, and Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius, who hosted the 70th anniversary event at the Ministry of Defence.
New backing for small businesses to protect their intellectual property from security threats
Up to 500 small or medium-sized companies could benefit from new reviews involving approved experts giving tailored advice to teams on risks they face.
Up to 500 small and medium sized UK firms backed by government funding to strengthen their security.
Security review scheme includes expert advice to protect ideas and innovations from powerful competitors including state actors.
Open to range of sectors from AI to life sciences to help businesses grow securely while boosting our economy and supporting our Plan for Change.
Hundreds of UK tech start-ups and other innovative businesses can now apply for government support to protect their intellectual property from powerful competitors, including threats from other states and hostile actors, Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has announced today (Thursday 10 July).
Up to 500 small or medium-sized companies will potentially benefit from new Secure Innovation Security Reviews, which involve approved experts giving tailored advice to teams on risks they face, so they can build thriving businesses which create jobs and support the economy.
This could include advice on strengthening checks on prospective employees to reduce insider threats and ensure their suitability for handling sensitive information, and key cyber security measures to guard against common cyber-attacks.
A range of technology sectors operating throughout the UK will be able to apply, from artificial intelligence to life sciences, advanced materials like semiconductors to renewable energy systems and beyond – backing businesses at the forefront of boosting economic growth as part of our Plan for Change.
Support can help combat the efforts of certain states to steal technological, economic, or military insight, to enhance their own capabilities rather than engaging in fair international competition.
While threats of hostile actors recruiting an insider to exploit their physical access are not new, such threats are becoming more advanced, underlining the importance of integrating personnel, physical, and cyber security to protect start-ups.
Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said:
The UK economy is built on the courage, ambition and hard work of small businesses which ultimately benefits us all, creating new technologies and jobs that grow our economy under our Plan for Change.
By supporting firms to protect their innovations, this government-backed scheme will help those who put the hours in to reap the rewards while keeping key companies and sectors safe from malicious larger competitors, including state actors.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis said:
Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy and they need security to thrive.
With 98% of businesses reporting a lack of knowledge to identify security threats, it is crucial they are equipped with the tools necessary to protect themselves against increasingly volatile threats.
This initiative, spearheaded by the National Protective Security Authority and the National Cyber Security Centre, supports businesses to build the skills and the confidence they need to grow.
To take part in the scheme, companies will need to apply through Innovate UK and contribute £500, with £2,500 covered by the government.
National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) figures show 39% of companies have only one protective security or cyber measure in place and 55% do not conduct pre-employment screening of new personnel. By helping businesses to integrate protective security into their wider business strategy, the work can also help to boost customer and investor confidence.
The reviews involve a professional conducting a site visit of the company to carry out a security health check, against a framework developed by the UK’s national technical authorities, NPSA – part of MI5 – and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) – part of Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ).
They will then provide the company with a bespoke report with recommendations for improvement. The professional will conduct a follow up with the company after 6 months to gauge improvements made since the site visit.
It builds on a pilot scheme in 2023, where 98% fed back that they now have sufficient knowledge to identify the security threats to their business, with the same figure committing to further action strengthen their security.
NCSC CEO Richard Horne said:
Small and medium-sized businesses power the UK’s innovation engine – but where ideas thrive, threats are never far behind.
States, state-backed competitors, and cyber criminals target cutting-edge ideas and valuable data, exploiting gaps in cyber and protective security defences to launch attacks that can cripple organisations and steal their most sensitive innovations.
That’s why building resilience is no longer optional – it’s essential for business growth and survival. I encourage SMEs across the UK to take advantage of the NCSC and NPSA-backed Secure Innovation Security Reviews scheme.
Executive Director of Strategy and Performance at Innovate UK Robert Shaw said:
Innovate UK is proud to be a partner in delivering Security Reviews for spinouts and start-ups in such critical sectors.
If these innovators can protect valuable intellectual property and their competitive edge and demonstrate their commitment to security to investors and customers, they will be better placed to realise their growth potential in the UK, and globally.
Eligible organisations must be small or medium sized enterprises which employ under 250 people.
Organisations must be working in one of the 17 sensitive areas of the economy set out in the National Security and Investment Act (2021), or one of the selected sectors in Invest 2035: the UK’s modern industrial strategy.
The scheme is delivered through and in partnership with Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3
Press release
Government action to speed up recognition for LGBT veterans
LGBT military personnel who faced dismissal, discharge or mistreatment due to their sexuality while serving between 1967 and 2000 will receive financial support faster following improvements to the Government’s financial recognition scheme.
Increase in dedicated staff will accelerate applications and process payments faster
New automated payment system is being built to eliminate processing delays and administrative bottlenecks
Financial recognition scheme will provide support for LGBT military personnel who faced dismissal, discharge or mistreatment while serving between 1967 – 2000.
LGBT military personnel who faced dismissal, discharge or mistreatment due to their sexuality while serving between 1967 and 2000 will receive financial support faster following improvements to the Government’s financial recognition scheme.
The UK Government has increased dedicated staff by adding a further five workers, almost doubling the size of the existing team, to accelerate application reviews and process payments more quickly. The expanded team will focus on expediting the creation of applicant case files and processing of applications.
To address processing concerns, the Government is also introducing two other key measures as part of its efforts to ensure veterans receive timely recognition for past injustices:
An automated payments system is being built to streamline the process, significantly reducing administrative bottlenecks and minimising errors. This system will ensure payments are made accurately and promptly once approved.
Independent Panel sittings will double to two per week to accelerate the review of cases requiring assessment, particularly for those seeking recognition payments of up to £20,000 for pain and suffering which was directly related to the Ban, such as harassment, invasive investigations and imprisonment.
The Government remains driven to ensure every recommendation of Lord Etherton’s review is fully implemented. As of July 2025, Defence has completed 42 of the 49 recommendations and two other remaining recommendations will be completed by the end of the year.
This action demonstrates the Government’s Plan for Change in practice – delivering on the commitment to strengthen national security by ensuring we maintain the trust and confidence of all those who serve our country.
Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carns MP, said
We deeply regret the treatment of LGBT serving personnel between 1967 and 2000 which was wholly unacceptable.
We have been prioritising payments to the elderly and those with serious health conditions to ensure they receive support as quickly as possible.
We’re taking decisive action to ensure LGBT veterans receive the recognition they deserve by increasing staff resources, implementing an automated payment system, and doubling panel reviews.
This scheme acknowledges the sacrifices of those who faced discrimination while serving. I urge all affected veterans to apply through the GOV.UK portal as we remain fully committed to implementing Lord Etherton’s recommendations, and righting these historic wrongs, as part of our Government’s commitment to renew the nation’s contract with those who have served.
The further support for LGBT Veterans comes off the back of the government’s historic commitment to increase defence spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2027, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to renew the nation’s contract with those who have served.
The scheme, launched by the Government in December, goes beyond financial recognition – it also acknowledges the sacrifices and injustices faced by LGBT veterans and ensures their experiences are recognised and valued. This can include, but not limited to, having a restoration of rank, letters of apologies, among other forms of recognition.
All veterans affected by the ban while serving between 1967 and 2000 are urged to read the guidance and apply via the Veterans of the LGBT Ban: Financial Recognition Scheme page on GOV.UK.
Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)
Message of Tribute | Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, pays tribute to the late Former Deputy President David Mabuza, honouring his service to the nation and his contribution to South Africa’s democratic journey.
On July 6, an arson attack targeted the East Melbourne Synagogue. It was the latest in a series of antisemitic incidents recorded across Australia since October 7 2023, when Hamas carried out a horrific terrorist attack, killing about 1,200 Israelis. These domestic incidents have escalated in both number and severity.
Australia has not previously experienced antisemitism at this scale. In response, the Albanese government appointed Jillian Segal as the nation’s first special envoy for combating antisemitism, and commissioned a plan with recommendations to address the issue.
1. Preventing violence and crime, including a proposed law enforcement framework to improve coordination between agencies, and new policies aimed at stopping dangerous individuals from entering Australia.
2. Strengthening protections against hate speech, by regulating all forms of hate, including antisemitism, and increasing oversight of platform policies and algorithms.
3. Promoting antisemitism-free media, education and cultural spaces, through journalist training, education programs, and conditions on public funding for organisations that promote or fail to address antisemitism.
The government has said it will consider the recommendations.
These measures are broadly reasonable and make practical sense. Some – such as those aimed at preventing violence and crime – are more straightforward to implement than others. It would also be logical to apply them to all forms of hate, not just antisemitism.
But that needs to be done with caution. We don’t want to create an environment in which any criticism of a community or group is shut down by regulation.
In a democracy, open and robust debate is essential. The challenge lies in the details: how we define hate, and where we draw the threshold for what counts as hate.
The document ignores the elephant in the room: whether the plan could be used to silence legitimate criticism of Israel.
The special envoy’s plan notes antisemitism has risen since October 7, but it does not fully explain the context. Israel’s military response in Gaza, which has killed more than 57,000 Palestinians, has prompted a wave of global protest and criticism of Israel, including accusations of genocide.
In this context, the line between antisemitism and criticism of Israel has become more difficult and contested than ever. Some people who attack Israel or Zionism may be expressing antisemitic views. Others may not. Distinguishing between the two is complex, but essential.
The envoy adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism, which covers both direct attacks on Jewish identity and certain criticisms of Israel, such as comparisons with Nazi Germany.
In my experience as a researcher working on online hate (including antisemitism), even members of the Jewish community adopting this definition often disagree on how to apply it.
The threshold varies – for example when deciding whether an online post or a statement crosses the line into antisemitism.
So where should we draw that line? It’s a crucial question. If the envoy’s recommendations are implemented, decisions about funding, visas, and even criminal charges could depend on it.
There is, of course, broad agreement on some cases. Setting fire to a synagogue is clearly antisemitic – it targets a Jewish place of worship.
Similarly, attacking a Jewish-owned business or damaging property in a Jewish neighbourhood suggests the target was chosen because it was Jewish.
Some people – often those already harbouring anti-Jewish views – treat the entire Jewish community as if it represents the Netanyahu government or the Israel Defense Forces.
This ignores the diversity of views within Jewish communities. That lack of nuance fuels antisemitism.
Few would disagree that antisemitic acts include attacks on Jewish people or property carried out indiscriminately, or when anti-Israel protests attempt to hold the whole Jewish community collectively responsible for the actions of the Israeli government.
But we also need to be realistic. We are unlikely to eliminate all forms of antisemitic hate or intimidation from public life. Hate can be expressed without breaching laws, and people can intimidate others while staying just within legal boundaries.
Humour, sarcasm and coded language are often used to incite hatred without triggering any formal consequence. That kind of harm is much harder to prevent – and it may be something we have to learn to live with, while continuing to push back against it.
Rebuilding trust
In the long term, the only real solution is building mutual understanding. That’s why personal relationships matter.
Knowing someone who is Jewish is one of the strongest antidotes to antisemitism. When you have a Jewish friend, you’re less likely to believe or spread the myths that circulate online and offline about what Jewish people think, believe or represent.
The same applies to all forms of hate. Direct contact helps break down stereotypes across all communities.
The problem is that the current context is pushing communities apart. Segregation and isolation are increasing. Before October 7, there was meaningful interfaith work happening – Jewish students visiting the Islamic Museum, Muslim students visiting the Holocaust Museum. That work has largelystopped.
Now, people are retreating into fear, distrust and generalisations. All nuance is lost. The “other” becomes a single, threatening enemy.
It will take time to rebuild that trust – and the longer the war continues, the harder it will be.
Matteo Vergani receives funding from the Campbell Collaboration, NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet, the Department of Home Affairs.
On July 6, an arson attack targeted the East Melbourne Synagogue. It was the latest in a series of antisemitic incidents recorded across Australia since October 7 2023, when Hamas carried out a horrific terrorist attack, killing about 1,200 Israelis. These domestic incidents have escalated in both number and severity.
Australia has not previously experienced antisemitism at this scale. In response, the Albanese government appointed Jillian Segal as the nation’s first special envoy for combating antisemitism, and commissioned a plan with recommendations to address the issue.
1. Preventing violence and crime, including a proposed law enforcement framework to improve coordination between agencies, and new policies aimed at stopping dangerous individuals from entering Australia.
2. Strengthening protections against hate speech, by regulating all forms of hate, including antisemitism, and increasing oversight of platform policies and algorithms.
3. Promoting antisemitism-free media, education and cultural spaces, through journalist training, education programs, and conditions on public funding for organisations that promote or fail to address antisemitism.
The government has said it will consider the recommendations.
These measures are broadly reasonable and make practical sense. Some – such as those aimed at preventing violence and crime – are more straightforward to implement than others. It would also be logical to apply them to all forms of hate, not just antisemitism.
But that needs to be done with caution. We don’t want to create an environment in which any criticism of a community or group is shut down by regulation.
In a democracy, open and robust debate is essential. The challenge lies in the details: how we define hate, and where we draw the threshold for what counts as hate.
The document ignores the elephant in the room: whether the plan could be used to silence legitimate criticism of Israel.
The special envoy’s plan notes antisemitism has risen since October 7, but it does not fully explain the context. Israel’s military response in Gaza, which has killed more than 57,000 Palestinians, has prompted a wave of global protest and criticism of Israel, including accusations of genocide.
In this context, the line between antisemitism and criticism of Israel has become more difficult and contested than ever. Some people who attack Israel or Zionism may be expressing antisemitic views. Others may not. Distinguishing between the two is complex, but essential.
The envoy adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism, which covers both direct attacks on Jewish identity and certain criticisms of Israel, such as comparisons with Nazi Germany.
In my experience as a researcher working on online hate (including antisemitism), even members of the Jewish community adopting this definition often disagree on how to apply it.
The threshold varies – for example when deciding whether an online post or a statement crosses the line into antisemitism.
So where should we draw that line? It’s a crucial question. If the envoy’s recommendations are implemented, decisions about funding, visas, and even criminal charges could depend on it.
There is, of course, broad agreement on some cases. Setting fire to a synagogue is clearly antisemitic – it targets a Jewish place of worship.
Similarly, attacking a Jewish-owned business or damaging property in a Jewish neighbourhood suggests the target was chosen because it was Jewish.
Some people – often those already harbouring anti-Jewish views – treat the entire Jewish community as if it represents the Netanyahu government or the Israel Defense Forces.
This ignores the diversity of views within Jewish communities. That lack of nuance fuels antisemitism.
Few would disagree that antisemitic acts include attacks on Jewish people or property carried out indiscriminately, or when anti-Israel protests attempt to hold the whole Jewish community collectively responsible for the actions of the Israeli government.
But we also need to be realistic. We are unlikely to eliminate all forms of antisemitic hate or intimidation from public life. Hate can be expressed without breaching laws, and people can intimidate others while staying just within legal boundaries.
Humour, sarcasm and coded language are often used to incite hatred without triggering any formal consequence. That kind of harm is much harder to prevent – and it may be something we have to learn to live with, while continuing to push back against it.
Rebuilding trust
In the long term, the only real solution is building mutual understanding. That’s why personal relationships matter.
Knowing someone who is Jewish is one of the strongest antidotes to antisemitism. When you have a Jewish friend, you’re less likely to believe or spread the myths that circulate online and offline about what Jewish people think, believe or represent.
The same applies to all forms of hate. Direct contact helps break down stereotypes across all communities.
The problem is that the current context is pushing communities apart. Segregation and isolation are increasing. Before October 7, there was meaningful interfaith work happening – Jewish students visiting the Islamic Museum, Muslim students visiting the Holocaust Museum. That work has largelystopped.
Now, people are retreating into fear, distrust and generalisations. All nuance is lost. The “other” becomes a single, threatening enemy.
It will take time to rebuild that trust – and the longer the war continues, the harder it will be.
Matteo Vergani receives funding from the Campbell Collaboration, NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet, the Department of Home Affairs.
Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
BEIJING, July 8 (Xinhua) — China has always taken a prudent, responsible approach to military exports and is willing to share the achievements of its equipment development with friendly countries, a Chinese defense spokesperson said on Tuesday.
Jiang Bin, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks when commenting on recent reports that several countries are in discussions with China regarding weapon procurement plans that include China’s J-10 fighter jet.
Jiang also stressed the country’s commitment to playing a constructive role in regional and global peace and stability.
Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense
BEIJING, July 8 — Whatever weapons the DPP authorities use, the overwhelming and irresistible trend of China’s national reunification will not be stopped, said Senior Colonel Jiang Bin, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense, at a press briefing on Tuesday.
Jiang made those remarks when asked to comment on the Han Kuang-41 live-troop exercise to be conducted by Taiwan’s military from July 9. It is learnt the exercise will focus on such subjects as the so-called “response to gray-zone harassment”, “joint anti-landing operations” and “resilient defense on the island”. Meanwhile, many US weapons will make their debut during the exercise.
The spokesperson slammed that Han Kuang exercise is nothing but a bluffing and self-deceiving trick played by the DPP authorities to hijack Taiwan compatriots on-board its “Taiwan Independence” war chariot, and the DPP authorities are harming Taiwan out of its selfish interests.
“We solemnly warn the DPP authorities that seeking ‘independence by force’ is a dead end. Whatever subjects they drill and whatever weapons they use, the PLA’s resolute countermeasures against ‘Taiwan Independence’ will not be deterred, nor will the overwhelming and irresistible trend of China’s national reunification be stopped.” Jiang stressed.
1 / 7Show Caption +Hide Caption –Samantha Beltran, left, Joint Theater Forensic Analysis Center Army CID FXD latent print examiner, demonstrates fingerprint analysis techniques to French Forces in Djibouti personnel at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, June 12, 2025. The JTFAC analyzes evidence from the field, including DNA, fingerprints, firearms, and electronic media, to provide actionable intelligence in support of U.S., allied, and partner nation operations across Africa. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Hardy-Bannerman) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Marcus Hardy-Bannerman) VIEW ORIGINAL2 / 7Show Caption +Hide Caption –Natassha Robinson, Joint Theater Forensic Analysis Center Army CID FXD latent print examiner, demonstrates fingerprint analysis techniques to Japanese Self-Defense Force members at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, June 19, 2025. The JTFAC collaborates with various partner forces across the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility to support operations to enhance regional security and stability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Hardy-Bannerman) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Marcus Hardy-Bannerman) VIEW ORIGINAL3 / 7Show Caption +Hide Caption –A sign for the Joint Theater Forensic Analysis Center is displayed at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, May 5, 2025. The JTFAC is U.S. Africa Command’s sole provider of comprehensive forensic capabilities across the range of military operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Joseph Bartoszek) (Photo Credit: Senior Airman Joseph Bartoszek) VIEW ORIGINAL4 / 7Show Caption +Hide Caption –Emily Rue, Joint Theater Forensic Analysis Center, observes a color test to isolate the compound in the sample in Bizerte, Tunisia, April 28, 2025. African Lion 25 (AL25) is set to be the largest annual military exercise in Africa, bringing together over 40 nations, including seven NATO allies and 10,000 troops to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative training in an austere environment that intersects multiple geographic and functional combatant commands. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) on behalf of the U.S. Africa Command, AL25 takes place from April 14 to May 23, 2025, across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia. This large-scale exercise will enhance our ability to work together in complex, multi-domain operations—preparing forces to deploy, fight and win. (U.S. Army Reserve Photo By Lt. Col Dale D. Barnes.) (Photo Credit: Lt. Col. Dale Barnes) VIEW ORIGINAL5 / 7Show Caption +Hide Caption –The Joint Theater Forensic Analysis Center and Tunisian Armed Forces use a variety of chemicals to retrieve serial numbers removed from equipment in Bizerte, Tunisia, April 28, 2025. African Lion 25 (AL25) is set to be the largest annual military exercise in Africa, bringing together over 40 nations, including seven NATO allies and 10,000 troops to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative training in an austere environment that intersects multiple geographic and functional combatant commands. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) on behalf of the U.S. Africa Command, AL25 takes place from April 14 to May 23, 2025, across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia. This large-scale exercise will enhance our ability to work together in complex, multi-domain operations—preparing forces to deploy, fight and win. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Lt. Col. Dale D. Barnes.) (Photo Credit: Lt. Col. Dale Barnes) VIEW ORIGINAL6 / 7Show Caption +Hide Caption –Lauren Kraul, Joint Theater Forensic Analysis Center, discusses methods to retrieve serial numbers removed from equipment with Tunisian Armed Forces in Bizerte, Tunisia, April 28, 2025. African Lion 25 (AL25) is set to be the largest annual military exercise in Africa, bringing together over 40 nations, including seven NATO allies and 10,000 troops to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative training in an austere environment that intersects multiple geographic and functional combatant commands. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) on behalf of the U.S. Africa Command, AL25 takes place from April 14 to May 23, 2025, across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia. This large-scale exercise will enhance our ability to work together in complex, multi-domain operations—preparing forces to deploy, fight and win. (U.S. Army Reserve Photo By Lt. Col Dale D. Barnes.) (Photo Credit: Lt. Col. Dale Barnes) VIEW ORIGINAL7 / 7Show Caption +Hide Caption –The Joint Theater Forensic Analysis Center and Tunisian Armed Forces collaborate during exercise African Lion 2025 (AL25) in Bizerte, Tunisia, April 28, 2025. Fluorescent lighting is used to view fingerprints on items being tested. AL25 is set to be the largest annual military exercise in Africa, bringing together over 40 nations, including seven NATO allies and 10,000 troops to conduct realistic, dynamic and collaborative training in an austere environment that intersects multiple geographic and functional combatant commands. Led by U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) on behalf of the U.S. Africa Command, AL25 takes place from April 14 to May 23, 2025, across Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Tunisia. This large-scale exercise will enhance our ability to work together in complex, multi-domain operations—preparing forces to deploy, fight and win. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Lt. Col. Dale D. Barnes.) (Photo Credit: Lt. Col. Dale Barnes) VIEW ORIGINAL
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U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF)
VICENZA, Italy – When U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) identified a need to gather evidence, the U.S. Army’s Joint Theater Forensic Analysis Center (JTFAC) answered the call. Its forensic team launched into action at sea, turning expertise into real-world impact.
At the request of the CENTCOM and AFRICOM, JTFAC personnel deployed to collect and analyze forensic evidence from a vessel carrying Iranian-supplied advanced conventional weapons. The seized cargo included ballistic missile components, anti-ship ballistic missile parts and a warhead, all bound for Houthi rebel forces in Yemen.
The forensic evidence helped secure a June 5, 2025, federal conviction of the ship’s captain, Muhammad Pahlawan, a Pakistani national who worked closely with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, on six charges related to smuggling Iranian-made advanced conventional weaponry destined for the Houthis in Yemen, as well as threatening multiple witnesses.
“The JTFAC forensic team conducted rapid sensitive site exploitation at expeditionary locations, including within the maritime environment,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Kyle Thomason, provost marshal for U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), which provides oversight to JTFAC operations.
To meet the unique demands of a maritime environment, the team rapidly adapted its Fly Away Kit, a mobile forensic toolkit designed for land and sea missions. This self-contained toolkit enabled JTFAC scientists to conduct on-site analysis, including chemical trace detection, biometric collection, and confirmed and inventoried types of weapons and equipment aboard the vessel.
The vessel’s initial interdiction resulted in the deaths of two Navy SEALs off the coast of Somalia in Jan. 2024, making international headlines at the time. However, the loss of service members was not in vain.
The interdiction successfully prevented anti-ship ballistic missiles from targeting U.S. and partner-nation vessels. The type of weaponry found aboard the vessel was consistent with the weapon systems used by the Houthi rebel forces during the time of the charged conspiracy against merchant ships and U.S. military vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack in Israel.
“The JTFAC services the Joint Interagency Intergovernmental Multinational community within AFRICOM,” said Thomason. “Their mission enables U.S. and partner nation forces to accomplish AFRICOM campaign objectives.”
Along with AFRICOM and CENTCOM, U.S. European Command was also involved in this offshore mission, highlighting JTFAC’s reach across geographic boundaries and interagency lines.
“We’re glad to have had the opportunity to fit into the seams of multiple commands to support this consequential operation,” added Thomason.
The mission not only demonstrated the center’s technical capabilities, but also deepened collaboration between defense, justice and diplomatic agencies operating in the AFRICOM area of responsibility. It marked a significant milestone in JTFAC’s expanding role as a forensic enabler for both military and civilian partners.
“The lab is internationally accredited, meaning its scientists can serve as expert witnesses in both the U.S. and abroad,” said Greg Sanson, the JTFAC liaison officer to SETAF-AF. “This comes in handy when either the U.S. or a partner nation wants to take legal action against subjects identified through our forensic analysis.”
JTFAC’s recent support of African Lion exercises laid the groundwork for this success. During those multinational events, Forensic Exploitation Team (FXT) scientists provided hands-on training to host-nation forces in Tunisia and Morocco, covering topics such as latent fingerprint development, DNA analysis and post-blast evidence recovery.
In addition, AFRICOM’s exercise Cutlass Express included 21 legal advisors from 12 countries converging in Victoria, Seychelles, Feb. 10-14, 2025. The multinational team discussed legal processes and examined possible scenarios that support search and seizure operations such as the type of mission which brought about this latest conviction.
“These engagements not only enhance the forensic science capabilities of our partners across the African continent, but also reinforce our center’s readiness for real-world contingencies,” added U.S. Army Maj. Lucas Poon, the JTFAC director at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti.
JTFAC’s capabilities stem from both military and civilian personnel, operating under the umbrella of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID). The Army CID’s Forensic Exploitation Division (FXD) staffs the majority of JTFAC positions. While the JTFAC is operationally controlled by SETAF-AF, a unique team from multiple U.S. Army commands enables this function.
The FXD supports numerous annual partner nation engagements and deploys on six-month rotations as part of the JTFAC in Djibouti.
“The lab’s ongoing mission provides multiple other benefits to partner nations, civilians and service members who operate in this area,” said Sanson. “Accurate forensic assessments lead to updated tactics, techniques and procedures, as well as revisions to protective equipment and policies to keep people safe now and into the future.”
As threats grow more complex and transnational, JTFAC continues to prove that science, when deployed with precision, can be a decisive force for justice and security.
About SETAF-AF
U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.
Noting increased reports of continued military build-up in and around Tripoli, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) strongly urges all parties to refrain from using force, particularly in densely populated areas, and to avoid any actions or political rhetoric that could trigger escalation or lead to renewed clashes.
As reiterated in the Security Council press statement on 17 May, UNSMIL reminds all political and security actors of their obligation under international law to protect civilian lives and property and that those responsible for attacks against civilians will be held accountable.
The Mission continues its efforts to help de-escalate the situation and calls on all parties to engage in good faith towards this end. UNSMIL urges the swift implementation of security arrangements developed by the Truce and Security and Military Arrangements Committees, which the Mission continues to support. Forces recently deployed in Tripoli must withdraw without delay.
Dialogue – not violence – remains the only viable path toward achieving lasting peace, stability in Tripoli and across Libya.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).
India has strongly reiterated its commitment to maritime safety and gender equality during the 134th session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, currently being held from 07 to 11 July in London. The Indian delegation at the session is led by T.K. Ramachandran, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
On the opening day of deliberations, India delivered a resolute statement in response to recent maritime incidents involving foreign-flagged container vessels operating in Indian waters. These incidents—linked to undeclared hazardous cargo and structural and stability deficiencies—have triggered growing concern about the safety protocols surrounding global container shipping operations.
Calling for urgent action, India urged the IMO to initiate a comprehensive investigation and global review of such incidents. The delegation highlighted the critical role of the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard in safeguarding life at sea and emphasized the pressing need to strengthen international safety frameworks. Particular attention was drawn to improving global standards around the packaging, declaration, stowage, and monitoring of lithium-ion batteries and other dangerous goods categorized under the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code.
As part of its proposal, India advocated for the establishment of IMO-led investigations into container ship accidents. According to the Indian delegation, such efforts would foster the development of global best practices, improve standardisation, and reinforce operational protocols for safer and more secure maritime activities.
In addition to addressing maritime safety, India took an active role in the session’s discussions on gender equality, aligning its efforts with the IMO’s Gender Inclusion Strategy. The delegation showcased the national initiative “Sagar Mein Samman” (Honour at Sea)—launched on November 25, 2024, by the Directorate General of Shipping. This landmark programme is designed to cultivate a safe, respectful, and inclusive maritime environment, enabling women to participate and advance across all levels of the industry, from seafaring roles to executive leadership.
India also highlighted a notable success: a 650% rise in the number of Indian women seafarers, demonstrating its strong commitment to building an equitable maritime workforce and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology is sponsoring a one-and-a-half-day workshop bringing together international experts from industry, academia, and government organizations to identify key optical metrology needs for extreme pulsed lasers (high peak power Terawatt to Petawatt class or high pulse energies).
Goals:
Develop a list of key optical measurements for these pulsed lasers including achievable measurement uncertainty.
Identify the roadblocks preventing researchers from being able to report trusted error bars for these measurements.
Outline next steps to improving these measurement capabilities.
Generate a publicly available report from the information gathered above.
Format: A series of invited talks on extreme pulsed laser metrology needs along with break-out groups to generate recommendations. All talks are “Invited” with an emphasis on discussion. In this true workshop format the attendees will be as important as the speakers. Attendance is limited to 30-50 participants.
Workshop program committee:
Luis Miaja-Avila (Co-chair, NIST)
Paul Williams (Co-chair, NIST)
David Garand (Sydor Technologies)
Bryan Holtsberry (U.S. Army)
Hiromitsu Kiriyama (QST)
Daniel Kramer (ELI Beamlines)
Mike Litos (University of Colorado)
Marco Lopez (PTB)
Daniel Short (U.S. Army)
Boulder Courtyard by Marriott 4710 Pearl E Cir, Boulder, CO 80301 Room Block for Pulse laser Metrology Workshop
Courtyard Boulder for 173.00 USD per night – Last Day to Book : Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Please use this link to book your room
Link: Book your group rate for NIST Pulsed Lase Metrology Wkshp
Note: for questions regarding your reservation please reach out to Jennifer Ford | jennifer.g.ford [at] marriott.com(jennifer[dot]g[dot]ford[at]marriott[dot]com)