NewzIntel.com

Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Collins, Bennet Reintroduce Bill to Make High-Rise Apartments Safer for Residents, Firefighters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins, co-chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, and Michael Bennet (D-CO) reintroduced the High-Rise Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act to help place more sprinklers in older high-rise residential buildings where fires are especially dangerous. Companion legislation has been reintroduced in the House of Representatives by Representatives Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11) and John Larson (D-CT-1), another co-chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus.

    “The annual cost of fires is enormous, resulting in the deaths of thousands of Americans and causing billions of dollars in property damage. Fortunately, state-of-the-art sprinkler systems can help avert these tragedies by controlling and extinguishing fires, protecting firefighters, and saving countless lives,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan bill would create a tax incentive for property owners to modernize the sprinkler systems in their high-rise buildings, helping better protect these communities.”

    “Older high-rise apartments pose serious risks for residents and firefighters because they were completed before modern fire codes required sprinklers,” said Senator Bennet. “This common-sense, bipartisan bill can help save lives by encouraging building owners to modernize their properties by installing sprinklers.”

    Recent research has found that Americans “have the least amount of time today to safely exit their homes in the event of a fire than at any time in history,” and fire deaths have steadily increased over the last decade. However, the current tax code does not adequately incentivize high-rise building owners to install fire sprinklers, since it treats them similarly to plumbing and depreciates the costs over 39 years. The High-Rise Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act encourages high-rises to modernize their fire prevention systems by decreasing this cost recovery to 15 years. 

    “Fire sprinklers are one of the most effective ways to save the lives of both civilians and firefighters in the event of a fire,” said Bill Webb, Executive Director, Congressional Fire Services Institute. “The Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) strongly supports the High-Rise Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act, which will make it more economical to install fire sprinkler systems in residential high-rise properties. Incentivizing installation of fire sprinkler systems will help to protect property and most importantly, save lives. CFSI looks forward to working with Senators Bennet and Collins, and Representatives Malliotakis and Larson to help this bill become law.”

    “Residential high-rise structures are among the most challenging and dangerous environments the fire service operates in,” said Victor Stagnaro, Chief Executive Officer, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. “Automatic fire sprinklers are a proven technology that contains fire, provides residents the necessary time to evacuate, and saves lives. We applaud Senator Bennet, Senator Collins, Representative Malliotakis, and Representative Larson for their continued commitment to the safety of our citizens and the health and well-being of our nation’s firefighters.”

    “Sprinklers save lives by helping address unique challenges posed by high-rise buildings such as longer egress times and distance, fire department accessibility and fire control,” Jim Pauley, President and CEO, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). “NFPA strongly supports the bipartisan High-Rise Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act and urges Congress to act quickly.”

    “Statistics consistently show that fire sprinkles save lives,” said Steve Hirsch, Chair, National Volunteer Fire Council. “I applaud Senators Bennet and Collins and Reps. Malliotakis and Larson for reintroducing this important legislation, which would incentive the installation of sprinklers in high-rise buildings.”

    “Almost every high-rise fire in this country has a firefighter injury and many more are having civilian and firefighter fatalities,” said Shane Ray, President, National Fire Sprinkler Association. “There should not be a high-rise building in America in 2025 that is not properly protected. Thank you to Congressman Larson, Congresswoman Malliotakis, Senator Bennet, and Senator Collins for protecting the occupants and firefighters.” 

    “I thank Senators Bennet and Collins for introducing the High-Rise Fire Sprinkler Incentive Act,” said Chief Josh Waldo, President and Board Chair, International Association of Fire Chiefs. “Passage of this legislation would be a historic accomplishment by incentivizing the installation of fire sprinklers in high-rise buildings. As we have seen in the Grenfell Tower fire in the UK and in fires here in America, we must have the best fire protection systems possible in high-rises to save human life.”

    The complete text of the bill can be read here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Investigation Update: Appeal for sightings of vehicle following suspicious church fires in Masterton

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are following strong lines of enquiry in the investigation into arsons at churches in Masterton on the morning of Saturday 22 February.

    As part of our enquiries, we are seeking information about a green Ford Festiva which was seen leaving one of those fires.

    Police are working to establish the movements of the vehicle in the early hours of Saturday morning when the arsons were reported, and the day or days beforehand.

    The vehicle was located abandoned on Sunday 23 February on Mikimiki Road, Masterton.

    A significant search was deployed into the area, however no occupants of the vehicle were located.

    Anyone with information that could assist with the investigation, including sightings of this vehicle, is urged to contact Police via 105 online or the 105 phone reporting line, referencing file number 250222/1673.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What do young people want to see in politics? More than 20,000 pieces of their writing hold some answers

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Philippa Collin, Professor, Institute for Culture and Society, Western Sydney University

    Shutterstock

    Ahead of the Australian election, candidates, advisers and political parties might be paying attention to what young people think. And if they’re not, they should be.

    This election will be the first in which Gen Z and Millennial voters (aged 18–40) will outnumber Baby Boomers (aged 60–79). Many of these young people were in high school during the previous two elections.

    While there are concerns about the effectiveness of civics and citizenship education, there is also evidence young people are interested in, and active on, many issues.

    So what do young people care about most? We analysed thousands of pieces of writing by young Australians to find out.

    What matters to young people?

    For the past 20 years, young people have been telling us what matters to them as part of the Whitlam Institute’s What Matters? writing competition. Students in years 5–12 can write about whatever they like. Most are directed by their schools to contribute as a part of their civics curriculum. Some opt to enter the competition out of interest.

    A unique sample, our analysis of 22,500 entries from 2019 to 2024 provides insight into the issues that resonate most with this generation.

    We identified common themes: society and democracy, mental health, environment and climate change, intergenerational justice and (social) media.

    1. Society and democracy

    We found young people were actively grappling with complex and diverse issues in an increasingly fragmented political landscape. They are also concerned about anti-democratic forces.

    They reflect on what makes this moment exceptional – climate change, war and violence, rapid technological change – and consider actions needed from individuals, communities and institutions for them to have a future.

    Our research shows young people prioritise care in local and global futures, valuing peer support, family, intergenerational ties, and connections across communities and borders. The most common topic was family, followed by pollution, racism and poverty.

    An ethics of care shapes their sense of belonging and responsibility –
    and the responsibilities of government. As a senior student wrote in 2022:

    Children are being abused, or watching one of their parents be abused countless times. The Government needs to step up and do their job properly by using more effective ways of helping children and their parents get out of unsafe environments.

    Our sentiment analysis shows that they write with hope – and frequently with anxiety and fear.

    2. Mental health

    Many young people write about “health”, including physical health and the health of communities and natural environments. Most often, though, they write about mental health and the causes of worry, distress and illness.

    Young people want governments and leaders to tackle the causes of the causes of ill-health. In other words, they want action on what creates the drivers of ill-health, including climate change, inequality and loneliness.

    For policymakers and advocates, this means recognising mental health as deeply connected to broader social and political issues – issues young people believe governments must address if they are serious about improving wellbeing.

    3. Environment and climate change

    Environmental issues, particularly climate change, were dominant themes — more so than in previous years. Students write about their relationship to the environment and the benefits of connecting to nature.

    Concerns about climate change were a common theme across the entries.
    Shutterstock

    Some are calling out extractive relationships with the environment, particularly by large corporations. They demand urgent action from individuals and institutions, advocating for policies that prioritise future generations and the planet.

    A senior student wrote in 2019:

    our future is under threat because of climate change […] it is our generation’s future that is on the line, yet we continue to be unheard.

    4. Intergenerational justice

    Young people see intergenerational justice and social justice as interconnected, demanding climate action, economic opportunity and democratic participation. Their concerns reflect a commitment to human rights including refugee rights, gender equality and Indigenous justice.

    Their writing shows awareness of Australia’s role in the world. Many discuss global conflicts and the responsibilities of nations in promoting peace and security. They want to contribute to efforts to address these issues.

    Young people want to trust and have more of a role in Australian democracy. They want those in power, and the institutions and agencies over which they preside, to be more transparent, to communicate regularly and honestly, and to show how they are taking action for a better future for all generations.

    Key areas where young people want greater accountability are in government, the media and business. Twelve-year-old Ivy said in an interview:

    young children should have a direct voice to parliament […] adults would take us more seriously instead of just viewing us as just kids. If issues affect kids right now or this generation, they should have a say about that to parliament.

    Young people want their activism and efforts recognised and supported. They hope for a democracy in which they’re not just heard, but are actively engaged by leaders, with a direct voice in government (at all levels) and institutions.

    5. (Social) media

    Young people highlight social media’s pros and cons, calling for strategies that better engage with them to reduce harm and maximise benefits.

    Young Australians painted a nuanced picture of social media.
    Shutterstock

    They stress the need for digital literacy to navigate online information critically, and they want online environments to be supportive and safe.

    Young people are concerned about how they are represented in the media generally. They argue that inclusive and accurate portrayals are key to having their voices heard and respected – crucial for meaningful civic participation.

    Candidates on notice

    Young people are not just future constituents – they are voting at the next election.

    The young people whose writing we analysed have formed civic and political values during a turbulent time in Australian and world history: catastrophic bushfires and floods, a climate crisis, a pandemic, and digital technologies that are changing our lives.

    They reject the idea they are too young to understand issues, and instead want a participatory democracy in which their voices influence real decisions. Indeed, the public has shown a desire to let young people have more of a say.

    Our analysis tells us many of this year’s 18–24-year-old voters are informed, engaged and ready to hold leaders accountable. They want action on climate, mental health, economic justice and democratic accountability. They’re tired of being ignored and sidelined.

    The authors would like to acknowledge research assistant Ammar Shoukat Randhawa for their work on the research this article reports.

    Philippa Collin receives funding from the Australian Research Council, Telstra Foundation, Google, batyr, Whitlam Institute, Academy Of The Social Sciences In Australia and NSW Health. In recent years she has received funding from the NHMRC, the Federal Department of Education, Centre for Resilient and Inclusive Societies.

    Azadeh Dastyari is the Director, Research and Policy at the Whitlam Institute. She also receives funding from the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN).

    Michael Everitt Hartup has no conflict of interest.

    Sky Hugman receives funding from The Whitlam Institute

    – ref. What do young people want to see in politics? More than 20,000 pieces of their writing hold some answers – https://theconversation.com/what-do-young-people-want-to-see-in-politics-more-than-20-000-pieces-of-their-writing-hold-some-answers-250062

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: Intchains Group Limited to Present at the 37th Annual ROTH Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Intchains Group Limited (Nasdaq: ICG) (“we,” or the “Company”), a provider of integrated solutions, including altcoin mining products, strategic acquisition and holding of ETH-based cryptocurrencies, and the active development on innovative Web3 applications, today announces that Company CFO Charles Yan, will be presenting at the 37th Annual ROTH Conference.

    Event 37th Annual ROTH Conference
    Date March 16~18, 2025
    Location Dana Point, CA, United States

    This year’s event will consist of 1-on-1 / small group meetings, analyst-selected fireside chats, industry keynotes and panels with executive management attending from approximately 450 private and public companies in a variety of growth sectors including: Business Services, Consumer, Healthcare, Industrial Growth, Insurance, Resources, Sustainability and Technology, Media & Entertainment.

    To learn more and submit a registration request, visit https://ibn.fm/Roth2025Registration

    About Intchains Group Limited

    Intchains Group Limited is a provider of integrated solutions, including altcoin mining products, strategic acquisition and holding of ETH-based cryptocurrencies, and the active development on innovative Web3 applications. For more information, please visit the Company’s website at: https://intchains.com/.

    About ROTH

    ROTH is a relationship-driven investment bank focused on serving growth companies and their investors. Their full service platform provides capital raising, high impact equity research, macroeconomics, sales and trading, technical insights, derivatives strategies, M&A advisory, and corporate access. Headquartered in Newport Beach, California, ROTH is a privately-held, employee owned organization and maintains offices throughout the U.S. For more information, please visit www.roth.com.

    Contacts:

    Intchains Group Limited

    Investor relations
    Email: ir@intchains.com

    Redhill

    Belinda Chan
    Tel: +852-9379-3045
    Email: belinda.chan@creativegp.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts St. Louis Man of Drug Trafficking and Charges Connected to Nine Murders

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. LOUIS – A jury in U.S. District Court in St. Louis on Monday found a St. Louis man guilty of a cocaine trafficking charge and charges related to the death of nine people during a nearly six-year period.

    Evidence and testimony presented at trial showed that Anthony “TT” Jordan, 38, was the leader of a cocaine trafficking ring. Jordan committed murders to protect that organization and hinder any investigation by law enforcement. He later committed additional murders to retaliate against a St. Louis gang he held responsible for the murder of a friend, gathering information and targeting gang members with the help of associates. Jordan and his co-conspirators also killed several bystanders, to include Clara Walker, a 51-year-old mother of nine, and Keairrah Johnson. Among those who testified were direct witnesses to the murders.

    Jordan was convicted of one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, one count of possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and nine counts of use of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime resulting in death. Those counts relate to the following fatal shootings, with details according to trial testimony:

    •    The April 19, 2008, deaths of Al Walters, Linnie Jackson, and Keith Burks. Walters was Jordan’s target.
    •    The Feb. 3, 2010, deaths of Marquis Jones and Keairrah Johnson. Jones was the target.
    •    The June 25, 2013, death of Anthony “Blinky” Clark.
    •    The Dec. 29, 2013, deaths of Robert “Parker G” Parker and Clara Walker. Parker was the target.
    •    The Jan. 21, 2014, death of Michail “Yellow Mack” Gridiron.

    Jordan was also convicted of a nonfatal shooting on Dec. 23, 2013.  

    “I would like to thank the jury for their service over the last few weeks and commend all of our law enforcement partners, the Assistant United States Attorneys, and the support staff who worked tirelessly over the years to investigate and prosecute this case,” said U.S. Attorney Sayler A. Fleming. “With today’s guilty verdict, justice was served.  The evidence proved without a doubt that Anthony Jordan is a violent drug-trafficker and serial murderer who needed to be removed from the streets of St. Louis. Our office remains dedicated to working with our local, state, and federal counterparts to bring at least some measure of comfort and resolution to the families of the victims of such violence, as they deserve nothing less.”

    “These murders were committed to benefit a large-scale drug trafficking organization that flooded our communities with poison directly sourced from cartels in Mexico. Anthony Jordan is not only a drug trafficker, but a serial murderer whose job was to eliminate competition from other drug dealers,” said Special Agent in Charge Ashley Johnson of the FBI St. Louis Division. “St. Louis is a safer place with Jordan and his associates off the streets.”

    “Today’s verdict is the culmination of countless hours of investigative work,” DEA St. Louis Division Special Agent in Charge Michael Davis said. “Over a span of several years, we uncovered the extent of Anthony Jordan’s reach into our St. Louis neighborhoods. His acts of violence instilled fear in our communities, while the drugs he pushed destroyed lives. Let this serve as a reminder that no one is above the law. The DEA, in partnership with our fellow law enforcement agencies, will go to great lengths to bring justice to the families impacted by those who inflict pain and suffering in our neighborhoods.”

    The trial began with jury selection on January 31. Jordan is scheduled to be sentenced on May 29, and faces up to life in prison.

    Jordan’s cocaine was supplied by Adrian Lemons, who obtained cocaine in bulk from representatives of a Mexican cartel. Lemons, now 46, of St. Louis, was sentenced in 2020 to 20 years in prison. Lemons, Jordan and 32 others were indicted as part of a long-running investigation by the FBI and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the St. Louis County Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Granger and Donald Boyce are prosecuting the case.

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Calculating the economic cost of climate change is tricky, even futile – it’s also a distraction

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dennis Wesselbaum, Associate Professor, Department of Economics, University of Otago

    Piyaset/Shutterstock

    Climate change is no longer a distant threat. It’s here, it’s real and it increasingly affects us all.

    But predicting climate change and its associated costs, particularly over long periods of time, is inherently uncertain. And based on the best available evidence from organisations such as the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the economic costs of climate change appear to be small – making this a relatively weak argument for environmental action.

    At its most basic, climate is the long-term average of the weather we experience. Or, as former president of the American Meteorological Society, Marshall Shepherd, famously put it, “weather is your mood, and climate is your personality”.

    It’s widely accepted that climate change refers to a shift in long-term weather patterns, typically driven by human activities.

    But the impact of climate change, ranging from rising temperatures and extreme weather events to health impacts and disruptions to food and water supply, varies greatly. Some areas experience more extreme impacts than others, exacerbating social and economic disparities.

    There also appears to be a false sense about our state of knowledge. For example, many believe climate change already causes more frequent and intense storms, but the evidence for this is inconclusive.

    Trying to predict the unpredictable

    To understand the economic costs of climate change, we must first grasp how climate affects socioeconomic outcomes.

    The relationship between temperature and socioeconomic outcomes can be modelled using a “dose-response” function, which shows how much a given change in temperature (the “dose”) influences the outcome (for example, temperature-related mortality).

    A key challenge is to understand the shape of the dose-response function. Is the relationship between temperature and mortality linear or is it more complex? Does it have thresholds beyond which the effects substantially change? Is there only one function or are there different ones for different populations?

    As climate change shifts the distribution of weather variables, it alters the outcomes as well. Yet, predicting how these distributions will evolve is difficult.

    The further into the future we look, the harder it is to make reliable predictions about both weather and the associated economic costs.

    If you were asked in 1925 to predict the economy in 2000, for example, how accurate would you have been? In 1925 you drove a Ford Model T, used coal-fired steam trains and passenger ships for travel, and a trip from London to Auckland took up to eight weeks by sea. You used a telegraph for long-distance communication and a radio for entertainment.

    Compare that with the globalised, interconnected economy of the year 2000. Given the technological advancements, would your prediction have been even close?

    Rather than focusing on the uncertain future economic costs of climate change, we should be addressing how it is affecting human life now.
    James Andrews1/Shutterstock

    Cost estimates

    There are a wide range of estimates on the economic costs of climate change. But one of the most reliable has come from the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

    The panel’s latest assessment report avoids quantifying the economic costs of climate change. So, to understand the economic costs of climate change, we can use the best estimate based on the previous report and the insights from meta studies. These analyses posit a temperature rise of 3.7°C will reduce global gross domestic product (GDP) by about 2.6% (ranging from 0.5 to 8.2%) by 2100.

    For New Zealand, this is equivalent to about NZ$11 billion, or twice the cost of Auckland’s City Rail Link.

    However, this comparison is extremely misleading. The value of 2.6% today will differ substantially from 2.6% in 75 years.

    The New Zealand economy grew at a compound annual rate of 1.4% between 1960 and 2000. Using this same average growth rate, New Zealanders will have a 184% higher standard of living in 2100. If nothing is done to address climate change, and given the best cost estimate, our standard of living would still be 176% higher than it is now.

    Reporting costs

    There are also issues with how some people report costs. For instance, while the total damage caused by floods and hurricanes in the United States has gone up in dollar amounts, it has not actually increased as a percentage of peoples’ incomes.

    In this context, it is crucial to distinguish between the damage caused by climate change and that resulting from human activities – such as the construction of more houses, higher property prices and river management practices.

    The economic costs of climate change based on the best available evidence appear to be small and highly uncertain.

    Shifting the focus

    Even if we accept our best estimates, economic costs are not the issue, but saving the environment is.

    Instead of focusing the debate of climate change around economic costs, we need to refocus the debate on tangible impacts happening right now: retreating glaciers, species extinction, shifting seasons and coastal erosion, to name a few.

    Addressing these issues is costly, but action will be needed to save the environment and ensure a liveable world into the future.

    Dennis Wesselbaum does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Calculating the economic cost of climate change is tricky, even futile – it’s also a distraction – https://theconversation.com/calculating-the-economic-cost-of-climate-change-is-tricky-even-futile-its-also-a-distraction-248862

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Botswana

    Source: Australia Safe Travel Advisories

    Heavy rains have caused severe flooding across Botswana. Some borders and roads have been temporarily closed due to the flooding. Take caution, seek local advice, monitor local media and check the Botswana Meteorological Services and Botswana Unified Revenue Service social media pages for up-to-date information on weather conditions and border crossing status prior to travel (see ‘Travel’).

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Ministry aims to bring an end to heavy pollution days

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China has effectively halted the rise of ozone pollution and stabilized its concentration levels as air quality continues to improve, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment said on Monday.
    The country’s average ozone density in 2024 was 143.6 micrograms per cubic meter, a decrease of 2.7 percent compared with 2019, said Li Tianwei, head of the ministry’s Department of Atmospheric Environment.
    The ministry aims to eliminate days with heavy pollution this year, despite expecting less favorable weather conditions, Li said, adding that it plans to further reduce emissions by advancing clean heating, ultralow emission transformation, volatile organic chemical controls and transportation sector management.
    “We will holistically transform the structures of industry, energy consumption and transportation toward green, low-carbon development,” he said.
    The density of the pollutant has remained between 144 and 145 micrograms per cubic meter for three consecutive years, marking a turning point after years of increase, Li said. “This means the upward trend of ozone density since 2015 has been preliminarily curbed,” he added.
    According to the ministry, ozone pollution in China peaked at 148 micrograms per cubic meter in 2019, after rising steadily for several years.
    While the ozone layer in the upper atmosphere protects humans against harmful ultraviolet radiation, ground-level ozone is a pollutant that can cause respiratory issues and lung damage even at relatively low concentrations.
    Ozone pollution is most prevalent in summer. Ozone at ground level is formed when volatile organic chemicals and nitrogen oxides, partially from vehicle emissions, react in sunlight and under high temperatures.
    Li said the stabilization of ozone levels coincides with China’s overall improvement in air quality, helped by stricter pollution controls and favorable meteorological conditions, including fewer sand and dust storms.
    Li credited the improvement to emission reduction efforts in key sectors, highlighting progress in the steel industry. Ultralow emission upgrades have been completed for 130 million metric tons of production capacity, he said, adding that more than 80 percent of the steel industry has been upgraded.
    Despite economic challenges and external pressures, China’s average concentration of PM2.5 — fine particulate matter linked to health risks — fell to 29.3 micrograms per cubic meter last year, down 2.7 percent compared with the previous year.
    The proportion of days with “fairly good” air quality reached 87.2 percent in 2024, an increase of 1.7 percentage points from 2023 and the highest since 2021.
    Meanwhile, the proportion of days with heavy pollution or worse in 2024 dropped to 0.9 percent, the lowest so far this decade and a year-on-year decrease of 0.7 percentage point.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hamas demands release of prisoners to resume Gaza peace talks

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    People welcome a released Palestinian prisoner in the West Bank city of Ramallah, Feb. 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Hamas on Monday said ensuring the agreed-upon release of more than 600 Palestinian prisoners by Israel is a prerequisite for further talks aimed at consolidating the ceasefire in Gaza.

    In a press statement, Bassem Naim, a senior Hamas official, said any future discussions with Israel would only proceed if Israel meets the key condition of releasing the prisoners.

    “Any indirect negotiations with Israel will only take place if a fundamental condition is fulfilled — the release of the over 600 Palestinian prisoners as agreed,” Naim said.

    Naim insisted that mediators — Egypt, Qatar, and the United States — must ensure Israel adheres to the terms of the agreement, which include releasing Palestinian prisoners.

    This statement came two days after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu postponed the release of more than 600 Palestinian prisoners, which was part of the seventh batch of prisoner-for-hostage exchanges between Israel and Hamas.

    According to Netanyahu’s office, the delay was a response to what it described as “provocations” by Hamas, including the “disgraceful hostage release ceremonies that dishonor hostages and the cynical use of hostages for propaganda purposes.”

    Netanyahu’s office emphasized that the release of Palestinian prisoners would be contingent on guarantees from mediators that Hamas would not engage in similar acts of “provocation” in the future.

    The ceasefire, which followed 15 months of intense conflict in Gaza, was agreed by Hamas and Israel on January 15 and went into effect on January 19.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eighth Army commemorates 74th anniversary of the Battle of Hill 180

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    The annual ceremony pays tribute to the Soldiers’ heroic actions during the Korean War, highlighting the enduring strength of the Republic of Korea-U.S. alliance and the commitment to defending South Korea. This event underscored Eighth Army’s dedication to fostering strong alliances and partnerships, emphasizing the importance of unity between the United States and the ROK.

    “The Battle of Hill 180 is a testament to the indomitable warrior spirit of the American and Korean Soldiers who fought side by side throughout the Korean War, forging the strong bonds and Katchi Kapshida spirit that remain alive and well today,” said Brig. Gen. Sean Crockett, Eighth Army deputy commanding general, operations, who served as the event’s guest speaker. “Not only did these Soldiers answer the call to serve their nation, but they also had the courage to charge the hill when they were needed most.”

    On Feb. 7, 1951, during the Korean War, Millett and his soldiers of Easy Company, 27th Infantry Regiment, launched a daring uphill bayonet charge against entrenched Chinese forces. Under relentless enemy fire, Millett led his men forward, famously shouting, “We’re going up the hill. Fix bayonets. Charge! Everyone goes with me!”

    Despite sustaining multiple injuries from grenade shrapnel, Millett fought fiercely, reached the summit of Hill 180, and secured the position. The attack cost the lives of nine American soldiers but marked a critical victory. The battle became one of the last major bayonet charges in American military history and a defining moment in the Korean War. Millett later received the Medal of Honor for his leadership and valor.

    The ceremony, held at Osan Air Base, included the playing of the ROK and U.S. national anthems, an invocation led by the 35th Air Defense Artillery chaplain, and remarks commemorating the historical significance of the battle. Crockett’s address emphasized the lasting lessons of Hill 180, drawing parallels to modern challenges.

    “In today’s volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous environment, we must remember the hard-fought lessons of the Korean War,” Crockett said. “At the operational and tactical level, it is imperative to sustain consistent, tough, realistic, standards-based training in all conditions, both day and night. Training under these conditions forges cohesive teams that can fight and win. It also develops effective leaders who possess the courage, audacity, discipline, and tenacity to lead the charge shouting, ‘Fix bayonets and follow me!’ when the situation demands it.”

    Following Crockett’s remarks, the ceremony featured a wreath-laying tribute, a 21-gun salute by the 35th Air Defense Artillery firing party and the playing of “Taps” by the Eighth Army Band.

    Eighth Army Soldiers, leaders, and members of the local community attended the event to honor the legacy of the brave men who fought on Hill 180. The ceremony also emphasized the strength of the community, recognizing the shared history and unity among American service members, South Korean allies and the local populace.

    For more information, please contact the Eighth Army Public Affairs Office at usarmy.humphreys.8-army.mbx.public-affairs-office@army.mil.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Future use of storm-affected land

    Source: Auckland Council

    More than 1200 high-risk Auckland properties are expected to be purchased by Auckland Council before the end of 2025 – making it one of the largest land acquisition programmes undertaken in New Zealand.

    We are carefully deciding what to do with this storm-affected land, with decisions expected to take years.

    Uses being considered for storm-affected land

    We want to ensure Auckland’s land is used effectively to provide homes and maintain strong communities, while managing risk and reducing the financial impact to ratepayers.

    If we keep the land, options for use could include:

    • flood resilience and stream management

    • adding it to neighbouring parkland or bush

    • managing it as high-hazard land.

    If we don’t keep the land, options could include:

    • sale for safe redevelopment

    • sale with conditions to manage the risk (such as converting ground floor units to storage)

    • sale to neighbours for extra backyard space.

    Auckland Council is considering a range of options for storm-affected land that manages the risks, ensures the land is used effectively and efficiently.

    How decisions will be made

    Auckland Council’s Governing Body is responsible for deciding whether to keep or sell the land, costs associated with keeping the land (if applicable), and considering any views and preferences expressed by a local board.

    The local board is responsible for communicating their views and preferences about storm-affected land in their rohe (boundaries); and is responsible for any storm-affected land that the Governing Body makes available for a local park and/or local service activity – including budget required to maintain it.

    With 1200 properties to assess, carefully deciding the future use for every section will take several years.

    Diagram showing the management of council land after purchase.

    Have a suggestion for a site?

    Where people have suggestions for specific Category 3 sites, we can capture that information in our expressions of interest register.

    Draft policy and implementation plan

    You can read the Draft storm-affected land use – policy and implementation plan on the Auckland Council website (item 12, attachment 1). This policy was endorsed by the council’s Transport, Resilience and Infrastructure Committee on Thursday 13 February, ahead of the final approval step with the council’s Policy and Planning Committee expected in March.

    Frequently asked questions:

    What will happen to the land when properties are bought out?

    Auckland Council will explore all possible uses for the land and this may mean keeping it or selling it. We need to manage community expectations about what activities are possible, with safety being our no.1 priority.

    Redevelopment potential will be assessed by looking at the whole property rather than the existing dwelling – there may be scope to locate activity on other parts of the site, or options to re-engineer the land to mitigate risk.

    Who will decide how the land is used?

    We don’t know yet what the total land holdings will be from the buy-out process, so deciding the future use for every parcel of land will take several years.

    It’s anticipated that the council’s Governing Body will make most of the decisions regarding storm-affected land, with consideration of local interests.

    The Storm-affected Land Use Policy has been endorsed by Auckland Council’s Transport, Resilience and Infrastructure Committee and will go to the Policy and Planning Committee in March for final approval. This policy guides the use of this land. 

    Will the community have a say in what happens to land bought out by Auckland Council?

    We want to ensure communities are part of the process to determine the future use of the land, where possible, and we’re also exploring opportunities for partnerships with mana whenua.

    Where community members have suggestions for specific Category 3 sites, we can capture that information in our expressions of interest register, to consider as part of the Future Land Use process. Please send ideas to our expressions of interest register.

    Can the public access Category 3 land purchased by Auckland Council?

    Many of these properties are active worksites, where buildings are being demolished, deconstructed or removed. The council considers these properties pose significant health and safety risks for the public, and strongly discourages anyone from entering and accessing them.

    What will happen to vacant land while the long-term use is decided?

    Council-owned vacant land will be maintained to ensure a ‘kept look’ with a focus on maintaining areas visible from roads and footpaths (i.e. berms and front yards on properties that have road frontages). A budget of $39.4 million has been allocated over 10 years for ongoing maintenance including things like mowing and tree trimming. If you would like to report any maintenance issues please email recoveryoffice@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or if you see any suspicious behaviour please report it to the police.

    Why does it take so long to decide on the future use of these vacant sites?

    More than 1200 high-risk properties are expected to be purchased by the end of the year – making it one of the largest land acquisition programmes undertaken in New Zealand.

    We want to make the best decisions for the land and the community. The safe use of the site is our no.1 priority.

    We have to undertake thorough analysis to explore all possible uses for the land. Making the right long-term decisions takes time and we ask that communities are patient while this work is undertaken.

    Will you be selling sites to recoup some of the costs of the buy-outs?

    Aucklanders have told us we need to minimise the impact on rates of the buy-out programme, which along with other recovery costs tallies to around $1 billion.

    Limited opportunities to sell land for redevelopment or to adjacent landowners, in situations where hazards can be mitigated, will be explored.

    Although the existing dwellings were unsafe to live in, there may be options to redevelop the site in a different way and build new housing that doesn’t have the same levels of risk. This may include amalgamating sites into clusters. More homes are an important outcome for local communities.

    Where we do sell land, we’ll ensure that it is sold with conditions appropriate to manage the level of risk e.g. converting ground floor units to storage.

    Read all recovery FAQs on OurAuckland.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Operation Eclipse raids in the south-east

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police have seized almost $800,000 worth of illegal tobacco and $66,000 in cash in raids on 10 premises in the South-East of the state.

    Serious and Organised Crime Branch, Limestone Coast police and members from Consumer and Business Affairs searched premises at Mount Gambier, Naracoorte and Millicent on 19 and 20 February as part of Operation Eclipse investigations.

    The locations searched included tobacconists, candy and gift shops, a commercial storage facility and residential premises.

    In one search at a Mount Gambier gift shop $245,000 of illicit tobacco was located. Further investigations resulted in the seizure of $540,000 worth of tobacco products at a commercial storage premises in Mount Gambier.

    The searches resulted in the arrest of a man, 23, of Salisbury North for failing to provide his name and address.

    Operation Eclipse commander Detective Chief Inspector Brett Featherby said the regional seizures had significantly disrupted the activities of the syndicates.

    “If organised crime syndicates think they can operate in regional areas and not come to the attention of police they are wrong,’’ he said.

    “The seizures in the South-East have enhanced our knowledge of the operating model of the syndicates and are the subject of further investigations.

    “SAPOL will continue to have a whole of organisation response that targets the syndicates to disrupt their financial operations and criminal activity.

    “We will pursue criminal charges when sufficient evidence exists and that includes those who are supporting and enabling that activity.’’

    Operation Eclipse detectives have also searched another four premises in the metropolitan area since 18 February. Illicit tobacco worth $140,000 was seized in those searches.

    Detective Chief Inspector Featherby also appealed for public information into an arson attack at a tobacconist on Glynburn Road at Hectorville on Friday 21 February.

    In the incident three suspects arrived in a late model white sedan and attempted to set fire to the front of the premises. A witness extinguished the fire.

    “We would like to hear from anyone who knows of any person who may have burn injuries or who may have presented at a medical facility with burns since last Friday,’’ Detective Chief Inspector Featherby said.

    “We are also appealing for dash cam footage from vehicles in the Hectorville area between 4.30am and 5.30am on 21 February or anyone who observed people in a white late model sedan filling a fuel container at a petrol station.”

    Operation Eclipse has so far resulted in 29 arrests for offences including blackmail, arson, money laundering and serious criminal trespass.

    There have been 122 premises searched – 36 residential and 86 businesses – almost $1.25 million in cash, three firearms and almost $10.1 million in tobacco seized. Nine vehicles have also been seized for confiscation.

    Significantly, there have been 230 calls to Crime Stoppers since October 2 that have resulted in information being provided to police.

    Anyone with any information on criminal activities surrounding the sale of illicit tobacco is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestopperssa.com.au – You can remain anonymous.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: ‘Drill Baby, Drill’: Report shows Woodside hell-bent on profit while people and nature pay the price

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    SYDNEY/PERTH, Tuesday 25 February 2025 — Greenpeace Australia Pacific has condemned gas corporation Woodside’s annual earnings announcement today, saying its billion dollar profits come at the expense of Australian communities and nature on the frontlines of extreme weather disasters.

    The fossil fuel multinational reported AUD$3.57 billion in net profits after tax for 2024, a 115% year-on-year increase, as output rose to a record high.

    Joe Rafalowicz, Head of Climate and Energy at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, said: “With so many Australians struggling to pay for groceries or rent as the cost of living crisis rages on, it’s not right that fossil fuel corporations are raking in billions from destroying our planet. 

    “Communities across Australia are reeling from the extreme weather disasters unfolding every summer, which the Insurance Council estimates will cost $35.2 billion a year by 2050. It is immoral for fossil fuel corporations like Woodside to toast their profits today, while people on the frontlines are left to pick up the tab when floods or bushfires destroy their homes. 

    “As Ningaloo Reef suffers another mass coral bleaching, Woodside is hell-bent to ‘Drill Baby, Drill’ for even more polluting gas at neighbouring Scott Reef. We must not allow the nature we love to become another victim of the fossil fuel industry’s endless pursuit of profit.

    “The era of rampant corporate greed must end — it’s time for fossil fuel polluters to pay for the climate destruction they are unleashing on communities in Australia, the Pacific and around the world. We must hold polluters like Woodside accountable for their propaganda and for knowingly holding back climate action in this country.

    “Let’s invest in the proven climate solutions we have right now — renewable wind and solar energy backed by storage. Greenpeace will continue to advocate for clean, safe, affordable renewable energy that will reduce global emissions and ensure a livable planet for all.”

    Policies to make polluters pay are gaining momentum around the world, with governments including New York and Vermont introducing legislation forcing fossil fuel companies to pay for the climate destruction caused by their emissions. 

    -ENDS-

    For more information or interviews contact Kate O’Callaghan on 0406 231 892 or [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Violent crime drops for the first time since 2018

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Police data shows that violent crime has fallen for the first time since 2018, indicating that the Government’s tough-on-crime and victims-first approach is working, Police Minister Mark Mitchell and Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith say.
     “After year-on-year increases in violent crime since 2018, it is encouraging to see a reversal of this rise with a two per cent drop in the numbers for 2024,” Mr Mitchell says. 
     “It is especially encouraging when you consider that violent crime increased by 51 per cent between 2018 and 2023. 
     “This drop coincides with New Zealand’s prison population hitting its highest level since 2018, and a raft of other Police statistics showing crime overall reducing, with total victimisations down two per cent, and assaults and serious assaults both down 1 per cent.
     “This is good to see, and what it shows is that after six years of emptying our prisons, and a soft-on-crime approach, the Government’s approach of restoring consequences for crime, and backing Police with new powers, is beginning to yield results. 
     “Police are getting back to basics. They’re highly visible and demonstrating why they’re a world class Police Force. New tools enabling Police to crack down on gangs have proved their worth, with the insignia ban enabling Police to net further charges on a raft of things including drugs and firearms. Getting Police back out on the beat with 40 per cent more foot patrols, has seen aggravated robberies drop by 8 per cent, and the upward trend around theft in retail premises starting to slow. 
     “With theft in retail premises up 11 per cent there is still more work to do but I am pleased to note that the violent element of that has plateaued, and the upward trend overall is slowing – which will be welcome relief for our small retail business owners across the country.”
     “The latest New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey also shows how effective our work to restore law and order has been,” Mr Goldsmith says. 
     “There were 24,000 fewer victims over the year ending October 2024, compared to June 2024. 
     “These results are extremely promising, but we expect the data to remain volatile before a longer-term trend emerges. There’s still more work to do.
     “It’s important to remember this survey covers a 24-month period, so it will take some time before we see the full positive results of tougher legislation”. 
      “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and ensuring there are 20,000 fewer victims of serious violent crime by 2029.”
     
    Notes to editors:

    Statistics (nationwide)
     
    2023
     
    2024
     
    Percentage change

    Ram raids
     
    495
     
    207
     
    -58%

    Foot patrols
     
    56,134
     
    78.830
     
    +40%

    Total victimisations
     
    381,743
     
    373,684
     
    -2%

    Serious assaults
     
    55,470
     
    54,656
     
    -1%

    Resulting in injury
     
    25,129
     
    24,509
     
    -2%

    Not resulting in injury
     
    30,341
     
    30,147
     
    -1%

    Common assault
     
    21,432
     
    21,397
     
    0%

    Abduction and kidnapping
     
    475
     
    482
     

    +1%
     

    Aggravated robbery
     
    3,261
     
    2,988
     
    -8%

    Unlawful entry with intent/Burglary, break and enter
     
    66,355
     
    62,200
     
    -6%

    Victimisations at retail premises:
     
    2023
     
    2024
     
    Percentage change

    Acts intended to cause injury
     
    4,353
     
    4,341
     
    0%

    Robbery, extortion and related offences
     
    915
     
    895
     
    -2%

    Unlawful entry with intent/Burglary, break and enter
     
    8,023
     
    8,294
     
    +3%

    Theft and related offences
     
    109,991
     
    122,773
     
    +12%                    

    Violent crime is not a category of data that Police tracks, and therefore data is based off of @Charteddaily’s post on x: https://x.com/Charteddaily/status/1885143695667978298. Their measure for violent crime includes common and sexual assaults, abductions, robberies and blackmail.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: How pumped hydro can provide the stability Australia’s energy transition needs

    Source: Allens Insights

    A reliable, durable and large-scale storage solution 10 min read

    Australia’s favourable natural geographical landscape and abundance of retiring mine sites provide a unique opportunity for pumped hydro energy storage (PHES) to play a key role in driving the energy transition in this country. By delivering consistent, long-duration, dispatchable capacity during peak demand, PHES can help stabilise the system when other technologies may struggle.

    The past two years have seen a surge in the uptake of battery energy storage systems (BESS). However, firming assets such as BESS and intermittent generators such as wind and solar are constrained by weather conditions, redundancy and, in the case of BESS, capacity and duration limits. These constraints highlight the need for a more reliable, durable, large-scale storage solution to complement the other technologies.

    In the first part of our pumped hydro Insight series, we explore the drivers behind the growing uptake of PHES in Australia, and highlight key considerations for developers, investors, financiers, contractors and other stakeholders assessing such projects.

    Key takeaways

    • There is growing interest in PHES as a long-term, firm, long-duration dispatchable asset that is unconstrained by weather, technology, asset life or capacity limitations.
    • Approximately 20 PHES projects are actively being developed in Australia, with over 22,000 sites identified as suitable for a PHES.
    • PHES projects are capital intensive and inherently complex in their planning, procurement, delivery and commercialisation. These factors necessitate careful planning, robust risk mitigation strategies and proactive engagement with stakeholders to ensure the success of PHES over the long term.

    What’s driving the uptake of PHES in Australia?

    There is no doubt that interest in PHES as an energy generation and storage solution is growing. There are a number of key drivers behind this.

    While BESS are an important part of the storage solution, they have limitations. Most BESS projects range between 200MW and 500MW, with larger projects, such as Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub’s 1,200MW battery, still only half the size of Snowy Hydro 2.0’s 2,200MW project. BESS typically provide around four hours of dispatchable energy before needing to recharge, while PHES can deliver up to 175 hours.

    BESS also have a shorter asset life of around 20 years, with a steady degradation profile down to 60–70% of the nameplate capacity over time, whereas PHES projects are designed to last over 50 years. While BESS technology is still maturing on a utility scale, PHES has a long-established track record and doesn’t face the same fire risk, making it a more sustainable option for long-term energy storage.

    In 2017, the Australian Renewable Energy Agency and the Australian National University identified 22,000 potential ‘bluefield’ PHES sites across Australia, with an estimated energy storage capacity of 67,000GWh. Many of these sites are in areas with natural elevation differences that facilitate the construction of connected upper and lower reservoirs with minimal excavation. The proximity of these sites to natural water sources, such as rivers and dams, would allow these projects to leverage existing water systems to create the necessary reservoirs.

    PHES can also take a ‘closed-loop’ form, where water is transported to a site away from existing river systems and cycled between the two reservoirs. This type of system can be located where topographical features support it, allowing for new PHES facilities to be co-located with solar and wind generation projects in renewable energy zones, boosting grid reliability in those areas.

    The planned and accelerated closure of mine sites presents a unique opportunity for owners to repurpose aging mines into PHES projects. Sites such as Kidston, Mt Rawdon and Muswellbrook show how former mine sites can be transformed into PHES facilities, capitalising on rehabilitation obligations and the potential for long-term, revenue-generating assets.

    Australia has over 60,000 abandoned mine sites, posing challenges for owners who must manage costly rehabilitation efforts on non-revenue-generating assets. With around 75% of mine closures being unplanned or premature, there is an opportunity to repurpose these sites into valuable operational assets. Many of these sites have existing excavated pits that can be used as reservoirs for closed-loop PHES, reducing excavation risk costs and supporting mining companies’ rehabilitation goals through sustainable energy projects.

    The Federal Government and most state governments are supporting private sector-led PHES projects through grants, concessional debt, revenue underwrites and streamlined approvals processes.

    In NSW, EnergyCo’s Pumped Hydro Recoverable Grants Program, which is part of the Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, helps developers with the cost of early-stage feasibility studies. Additionally, developers can tender for Long-Term Energy Service Agreements (LTESA) in NSW and the Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS) across Australia. The NSW Energy Security Corporation (which received $1 billion in funding and will act as the state equivalent of the Clean Energy Finance Corporation) has been mandated to investigate co-investment opportunities with the private sector on energy storage projects, including PHES.

    Although no LTESA or CIS have been awarded to a PHES project yet, the NSW Government has shown strong long-term support for long-duration storage with an updated position to the Electricity Infrastructure Investment Act 2020 (NSW). By retaining the minimum dispatch duration definition at eight hours and broadening the long-duration storage LTESA assessment criteria, PHES projects are positioned to benefit from future government support. Similarly, under the proposed South Australian Firm Energy Reliability Mechanism, PHES projects offering dispatchable energy for at least eight hours will be able to bid for contracts to underwrite a portion of their revenue, complementing other state and federal policies.

    After the infrastructure boom of the past decade, the pace of the transport infrastructure sector has slowed, while demand for energy infrastructure has risen. Civil contractors with experience in metro, rail and road projects are now focusing on energy projects to capitalise on the available work.

    The civil infrastructure required for PHES, such as deep excavation, tunnelling and the construction of underground caverns and access routes, is similar to that required for transport infrastructure. Contractors with heavy engineering, excavation and tunnelling experience, and an available workforce, are well positioned to apply their skills to PHES projects.

    What challenges are emerging?

    Despite strong drivers and the promising potential of PHES, the uptake and reaching contract close of PHES transactions has lagged behind short to medium duration BESS, wind and solar projects.

    PHES projects are inherently complex and capital intensive, with several key challenges emerging.

    PHES projects typically require large areas of land, which can lead to complex environmental impacts, particularly biodiversity, water resources and, potentially, cultural heritage, and significant challenges with site access and spoil management. As a result, they require more detailed environmental impact assessments and complex approvals processes compared with BESS projects. In addition to state planning approval and environmental licences, PHES projects often require approval under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth), as well as being subject to any remediation obligations under any relevant mining tenements and approvals if located on a mine site.

    Securing land tenure is another significant challenge, especially when land is required within national parks, is over land held by Aboriginal land councils or land where native title is still active.

    Water entitlements and licences, crucial for establishing reservoirs, are also a key consideration, particularly for closed-loop projects. While some states, such as NSW, have introduced a special category of water licences for initial fills, these licences may come with restrictions that limit pumping from nearby water sources to periods of high flow, presenting programming challenges. In addition to securing the necessary approvals and resources, early engagement with traditional owners, landowners and local communities is essential for obtaining a social licence to operate.

    We have seen a continuing shift in risk transfer across energy and infrastructure. For PHES, in particular, this has been driven by a limited pool of experienced civil contractors with PHES experience in Australia, a lack of competition among original equipment manufacturer suppliers, and supply chain impacts and increasing demand for energy projects. A consequence of this shift has been the growing use of disaggregated contract packages, including in PHES procurement.

    By splitting contracts, developers can distribute risk among multiple parties and limit exposure to contractor insolvency, with each contractor focusing on their specialist area. Ideally, this improves quality and efficiency, at a more competitive price. However, this approach can create challenges, particularly for developers and financiers, introducing interface gap risks between the contractors, and resulting in smaller sizing for caps and security packages.

    Transport infrastructure procurement has traditionally been driven by state governments, creating a concentrated and aligned purchasing power that drove well-understood risk profiles. The energy infrastructure market is comparatively more diffused, involving a mix of government and private developers, contractors of all tiers and international entrants. This has meant that ‘market standard’ positions are fluid and highly bespoke contracts are being developed.

    An added complexity is that PHES procurement to date has been led by government-developers who are able to use collaborative commercial models with unfixed, variable cost elements. This is more difficult for private developers with limited funding sources who are required to demonstrate bankability to financiers. A balance will need to be struck between developers’ and financiers’ desire for firm pricing and transferred risk, with the contracting market’s calls for flexible, uncapped, commercial models.

    The contractor-led market has brought with it a rise in collaborative contracting in the infrastructure sector and the market is evolving. As an example, NSW and Victoria have adopted incentivised target cost models in infrastructure procurement projects, and Snowy 2.0 shifted from a traditional engineering, procurement and construction model to an incentivised target cost model. While the rise in collaborative contracting has not involved a full-scale move from wrapped lump sum to alliance models, there is an increased focus on fair risk allocation, considering each party’s ability to manage risks.

    In the PHES space, risk associated with input material costs, labour costs and underground work have been the particular focus of collaborative risk-sharing arrangements.

    • Input material and labour costs: PHES projects rely on significant quantities of materials such as concrete and steel, but supply chain issues and material cost escalation could increase project prices and timeframes. Additionally, the scale and construction duration of PHES projects requires substantial labour compared with other assets, with the remoteness of some projects potentially necessitating relocation packages and project-specific camps to attract skilled workers. Enterprise bargaining agreements can mitigate these challenges. However, the long construction period on PHES projects means that enterprise bargaining agreements are more likely to be renegotiated during delivery, reopening labour costs and creating the risk of industrial disputes. Given market changes, sensible and targeted risk-sharing mechanisms should be considered upfront to optimise value for money.
    • Underground work: PHES projects are complex and involve extensive subterranean work. While owners and developers can undertake geotechnical investigations prior to construction commencing, those have limitations, so a geotechnical risk-sharing mechanism is often needed. Geotechnical Baseline Reports are commonly used to set the agreed baseline conditions for tunnels and reservoirs, which serve as the test for any time or cost adjustments.

    Site selection is crucial for PHES projects, as suitable locations are often farther from existing grid infrastructure, leading to higher and more variable grid connection costs compared with BESS projects. Developers must ensure clarity on connection fees payable by a developer to the relevant network service provider and carefully consider the terms of connection agreements.

    Additionally, developers should be aware of the generator performance standards and how they align with other regulatory approvals for the project.

    A key challenge for developers is monetising storage projects and accessing debt capital markets. In the second part of our pumped hydro Insight series, we will explore the challenges, considerations and opportunities that developers, financiers and stakeholders face in monetising and creating stable revenue streams for PHES projects. Stay tuned.

    Actions that you can take now

    If you are considering entering the PHES space, as either a developer, investor, contractor, or financier, it is important to consider the following:

    • Strategic site selection: Rehabilitating existing assets, such as former mines or cleared agricultural sites with low biodiversity and cultural heritage value, and easy access water supply, may reduce planning delays, simplify environmental approval, and, for mine sites, limit the need for extensive excavation.
    • Early engagement: Engage early with all relevant parties, including local government, the community, traditional owners, landholders, consent authorities, regulators, contractors, geotechnical experts, financiers and government programs. The work done early in the project, and through concept and procurement processes, is crucial to the success of your PHES project.
    • Monitor the market: As more PHES projects emerge, market trends in commercial models, risk profiles and offtake strategies will evolve.
    • Adapting to changing regulations and government policies: We expect the regulatory landscape and government policies will evolve to better support PHES projects. Staying updated on these changes will be key to your project’s success.

    Keep an eye out for future Insights in the pumped hydro series, where we will expand further on the offtake and financing strategies that will underpin the bankability and revenue generation of PHES projects.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Helena man admits unlawful possession of firearm in school zone

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HELENA — A Helena man accused of carrying a firearm on the campus of the Jim Darcy Elementary School in Helena admitted to a firearm charge today, Acting U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Racicot said.

    The defendant, Bryant Nicholas Espinoza, 37, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm in a school zone. Espinoza faces a maximum of five years in prison, consecutive to any other count of conviction, a $100,000 fine and three years of supervised release.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for June 9. Espinoza was released pending further proceedings.

    The government alleged in court documents that on Feb. 7, 2024, the principal of Jim Darcy Elementary School contacted the Lewis and Clark Sheriff’s Office and advised the responding deputy that a staff member had notified her that the day prior, the parent of a student was on campus and was carrying a firearm. The staff member observed Espinoza standing in front of the school with a small dog. The staffer approached to assist Espinoza, and he informed the staffer he was there to pick up his daughter, who was a student. During the conversation, the staffer observed Espinoza was carrying a firearm. The staffer identified Espinoza in a photo, and   surveillance video showed Espinoza on school property with a small dog and what appeared to be a pistol in a holster on his hip. On April 9, 2024, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the sheriff’s office executed a federal search warrant at Espinoza’s residence and seized a 9mm pistol, two rifles and ammunition. In an interview, Espinoza identified himself in still photos taken from the surveillance video and said that the item on his hip looked like a firearm. Espinoza told agents where the pistol was located at his residence. Agents asked if there was a reason he had the gun at the school, and Espinoza responded that Montana was an “open carry state.”

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Sudan: MSF forced to halt its activities as violence engulfed Zamzam camp in North Darfur

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

    Port Sudan, 25 February 2025 – The current escalation of attacks and fighting in and around Zamzam camp for displaced people near El Fasher in North Darfur, is making it impossible for Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) to continue providing medical assistance in such dangerous conditions. Despite widespread starvation and immense humanitarian needs, we have no choice but to take the decision to suspend all our activities in the camp, including the MSF field hospital.

    The area has seen heavy fighting between the Rapid Support Forces and the Joint Forces, a coalition of armed groups allied with Sudanese armed forces, with dreadful consequences on civilians. Besieging and shelling the town of El Fasher for the last 10 months, the Rapid Support Forces have stepped up their offensive in recent weeks and launched attacks against Zamzam camp, in particular on February 11 and 12.

    People who were already struggling to survive now find their access to water and food even more compromised, as the central market has been looted and burnt down.

    “Halting our project in the midst of a worsening disaster in Zamzam is a heartbreaking decision,” says Yahya Kalilah, MSF head of mission in Sudan. “For more than two years, our teams have done their utmost to provide care against all the odds:  despite the siege, supply shortages, and multiple other challenges. We have been calling for and waiting for a scaled up humanitarian response which has never materialised. As the battle for El Fasher rages on and now reaches Zamzam camp, even the most minimal security conditions are not met for us to stay. The sheer proximity of the violence, great difficulties in sending supplies, the impossibility to send experienced staff for adequate support, and uncertainty regarding routes out of the camp for our colleagues and civilians, leave us with little choice but to suspend our activities”

    In the first three weeks of February, our teams in Zamzam received 139 wounded patients in the MSF field hospital, mostly suffering with gunshots and shrapnel injuries. The MSF facility was designed to help tackle the massive malnutrition crisis unfolding in the camp, which was declared as undergoing famine conditions by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification last year, and cannot provide trauma surgery for people in critical conditions.

    “11 patients died while in the MSF hospital, 5 of them children, because we could neither treat them properly nor refer them to Saudi hospital, the only facility with surgical capacity in nearby El Fasher. In January and December, two of our ambulances carrying patients from the camp to El Fasher were shot at. Now it’s even more dangerous and as a result, many people, including patients requiring trauma surgery or emergency caesarian section, are trapped in Zamzam” says Yahya Kalilah, MSF head of mission in Sudan.

    Hosting about 500,000 people, Zamzam camp saw new arrivals fleeing from Abu Zerega, Shagra and Saluma who are now staying in schools, community buildings, or under the trees in the open. They have told our teams of dwellings set on fire, looting, sexual violence, killings, beatings and other abuses in villages and roads in the El Fasher locality. Some hundred families also reached Tawila, sometimes barefoot, after leaving everything behind and escaping horrific violence on the way.

    MSF is deeply concerned about the safety of its staff and the hundreds of thousands of people in Zamzam camp and urges the Rapid Support Forces, the Joint Forces and all armed actors in the area, to protect civilians and let those willing to flee, be able to do so unharmed.

    In North Darfur, we continue to run emergency activities in Tawila while looking for every possible way to help people in Zamzam and El Fasher without exposing our staff to unacceptable levels of risk. In West, Central and South Darfur and in other parts of the country, our teams keep responding to the catastrophic malnutrition and health crisis driven by a relentless conflict, continued obstructions of the warring parties, and exacerbated by a failing humanitarian response.

    MSF reiterates its call to drastically scale up the provision of assistance in the many places where it remains possible. Warring parties must grant unhindered access for aid delivery and their allies and influential States. must use their leverage to ease the obstacles that are causing death and starvation.

    MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Joins Colleagues in Demanding VA Secretary Collins Put Veterans First, Reverse Mass Terminations of VA Employees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) joined 35 of her Senate colleagues, led by U.S. Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), in sending a letter calling on Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins to immediately reinstate the more than 1,000 fired VA employees who serve veterans and their families nationwide, including critical employees combatting veteran suicide working at the Veterans Crisis Line. The Trump Administration’s mass terminations of VA employees, which included a substantive number of veterans and military spouses, comes at a time when VA faces critical staffing shortages and increased demand for its services.
    The Senators wrote, in part: “Last week, we were outraged by the Administration’s abrupt and indiscriminate termination of tens of thousands of workers across almost every government agency, including more than 1,000 Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees. We were further disturbed by the manner in which you publicly celebrated this reprehensible announcement – a clear departure from the assurances provided throughout your confirmation process to never ‘balance budgets on the back of veterans’ benefits’ and to always ‘put the veteran first.’ Not only will this latest action put veterans’ care and benefits at risk, but it further confuses, demoralizes, and threatens a VA workforce we need to fulfill our nation’s sacred promise to our veterans and their families who have already sacrificed so much.”
    They concluded: “With the best interests of veterans in mind, and to ensure VA is capable of carrying out its sacred obligation of behalf of veterans, we urge you to immediately reinstate all of the employees dismissed in the latest indiscriminate terminations and commit to VA employees and veterans that no additional widespread terminations will occur without advanced notification to Congress, a detailed justification, coordination with service-level leadership, and an appropriate assessment of potential impacts on veterans’ health care and benefits. Congress remains ready to collaborate with you, if you are willing to come to the table and put the needs of our veterans above all else.”
    The full letter can be found here.
    Senator Shaheen has spearheaded efforts in the Senate to support veterans and military families. In the committee-passed (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Shaheen secured Granite State priorities including expanding access to child care for military families, expanded efforts to research the health impacts of harmful forever chemicals and a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted (E1-E4) and a 4.5% pay raise for all other service members and civilians to ensure military families receive the pay and benefits they deserve. Each year, Shaheen leads the bipartisan Senate resolution with Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) to recognize an annual National Warrior Call Day, which encourages Americans to reach out and build meaningful relationships with both those currently serving and veterans and will take place on November 17, 2024. In 2022, Shaheen worked to include provisions and helped pass the historic PACT Act, which expanded health care for veterans who were exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Sullivan, Padilla, Sheehy Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Boost Wildfire Mitigation and Research

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
    As Wildfires Have Devasted New Mexico and Western States in Recent Years, Luján’s Bipartisan Bill Would Create Career Pathways to Tackle Growing Wildfire Threats
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) reintroduced the bipartisan Regional Leadership in Wildland Fire Research Act, legislation that would establish regional research centers at institutions of higher education across the country to boost wildfire mitigation and research. Under this legislation, these regional centers would be tasked with developing next-generation fire and vegetation models and technologies to support wildland fire management and address the specific needs of the region they are situated in. Additionally, this bill would establish a National Center Coordination Board to coordinate the work of regional centers and establish Regional Advisory Boards from wildfire management agencies, state and Tribal governments, and other stakeholders to provide input and assistance.
    According to the U.S. Fire Administration, current wildfire models are failing to adequately predict fire behavior under extreme conditions and in more complex environments. These models also struggle to reproduce recent catastrophic wildfires, making them more likely to fail at predicting future wildfires or determining when and where it is safe to conduct prescribed burns. To support effective wildland fire management and prepare firefighters against evolving risks, next-generation fire and vegetation models are needed.
    “Far too many communities in New Mexico and in states across the country know that wildfire season can cost you everything. We must do everything possible to understand the root causes of these wildfires and how local communities can improve wildfire mitigation efforts and save lives and livelihoods,” said Senator Luján. “I’m proud to partner with Senator Sullivan to reintroduce this bipartisan legislation to establish regional research centers tasked with developing next-generation fire and vegetation models and technologies to boost wildfire mitigation. Each of these regional centers will help boost wildland fire management across the country while creating more opportunities for a good-paying job through career training for wildfire research. I look forward to working with my colleagues to get this bill signed into law.”
    “Wildfires burn millions of acres in Alaska every year—sometimes as much or more than the combined acreage burned in the rest of the country,” said Senator Sullivan. “To better protect lives, homes and critical infrastructure, we need to invest in research that will produce more accurate models and empower our wildland firefighters to better predict and extinguish fires before they become full-scale natural disasters. I’m glad to reintroduce legislation with Senator Luján to establish wildland fire research centers at our universities with specialized expertise in this space—like UAF in Interior Alaska—and develop more effective firefighting strategies that respond to the unique circumstances of each of our states.”
    “Californians are all too familiar with the devastating toll catastrophic wildfires can take on their communities, burning down homes and businesses, and uprooting families’ livelihoods,” said Senator Padilla. “As the climate crisis makes wildfires more dangerous and harder to predict, expanding our wildland fire research would help us better prepare for wildfires and safely conduct prescribed burns ahead of peak fire season. California universities are already the nation’s leading hub for wildfire research and technology, and this bipartisan effort is a critical step forward in expanding next-generation fire mitigation efforts.”
    “If we’ve learned anything from recent wildfire tragedies across the country, it’s that the threat of catastrophic wildfires isn’t seasonal, nor is it isolated to one region; it’s a year-round, nationwide threat. I’m proud to join this bipartisan effort with my colleagues to invest in better anticipating wildland fires, streamlining our response, and ensuring we are fighting these fires faster and more effectively to keep communities safe,” said Senator Sheehy.
    Each regional research center will:
    Conduct research to improve our understanding of wildland fire, including causes and associated risks for fires, rehabilitation of affected ecosystems, mitigation strategies that improve firefighter safety, and more;
    Develop, maintain, and operate next-generation fire and vegetation models and technologies to support wildland fire management; and,
    Develop a career pathway training program to help carry out wildland fire research.
    The bill is supported by the Federation of American Scientists, Megafire Action, National Association of State Foresters, National Federation of Federal Employees, the Nature Conservancy, the University of New Mexico, and the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
    “The University of New Mexico stands in strong support of this legislation sponsored by Senator Ben Ray Luján and Senator Dan Sullivan, seeking to improve existing models of wildland fire risk and build new, improved forecasts of wildfire susceptibility. UNM, along with our state and federal partners, acknowledges the critical function this legislation will serve as we aim to provide more accurate information to land managers and firefighters who share our interest in protecting our local communities and forested watersheds, preserving rural livelihoods and sustaining agricultural economies in New Mexico for future generations,” said Garnett S. Stokes, President, The University of New Mexico.
    “We spend billions on improving our understanding of disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes – that hasn’t happened yet with megafire. The Regional Leadership in Wildland Fire Research Act recognizes and invests in our research community to produce region specific scientific research and solutions to catastrophic wildfires, allowing innovators and wildland firefighters to use this information to directly leverage technology to predict, detect, and prevent megafire,” said Matt Weiner, CEO of Megafire Action.
    “Extreme weather has pushed wildfires to grow in size and severity, making our current wildfire models inadequate. The Regional Leadership in Wildland Fire Research Act is a significant investment in understanding how wildland fire risks continue to evolve, and establishes a strong foundation that first responders and forest managers can rely on,” said Daniel Correa, Chief Executive Officer of the Federation of American Scientists. “We commend Senator Luján and Senator Sullivan for their leadership to champion and invest in innovative next-generation fire and vegetation models to protect human health, ecosystems, and our communities.”
    “Approximately 80% of Alaska’s population is living in areas at risk of wildland fire. It is vital that we improve our understanding of and develop better ways to prevent and combat wildland fire on a regional basis. The best way to accomplish these goals is through regional research efforts. I’m grateful Senator Sullivan recognizes this and thankful for his leadership and introduction of the Regional Leadership in Wildland Fire Research Act. UAF stands ready to advance wildland fire regional research to help protect lives and property in Alaska. I also want to thank Senator Luján for partnering with Senator Sullivan on this important legislation,” said Dr. Dan White, Chancellor of the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF).
    “NFFE is pleased to endorse the Regional Leadership in Wildland Fire Research Act, which will provide critical resources for research and technology that will help protect American communities from the wildfire crisis,” said NFFE National President Randy Erwin. “If we are to properly address devastating megafires and improve wildland firefighter safety, we must also develop the next generation of experts to support wildland fire research. Thank you to Senator Luján for his leadership on this issue.”
    Full text of the bill is available here. A one-pager of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso, Lummis Join Colleagues in Urging ATF to Rescind Biden’s Anti-2A Rules

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso, Senate Majority Whip, and U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis, both R-Wyo., joined U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) and their Republican colleagues in sending a letter to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) urging the agency to align with President Trump’s Second Amendment priorities laid out in his recent Executive Order.

    The letter also urged ATF Deputy Director Marvin Richardson to identify and rescind former President Biden’s unlawful firearm regulations, including the “Engaged in the Business” rule, pistol brace rule, so-called “ghost gun” rule, and “zero tolerance” policy under which ATF has revoked the licenses of federal firearm licensees (FFLs) over minor bookkeeping violations.

    “On Friday, February 7, 2025, President Donald J. Trump took decisive action to reaffirm law-abiding Americans’ Second Amendment rights in issuing his Executive Order, Protecting Second Amendment Rights. We urge you to immediately align ATF’s rules and policies with the President’s strong support for the Second Amendment,” the senators wrote.

    “Under former President Joe Biden, ATF adopted numerous policies and rules that infringed upon Americans’ Second Amendment protections. President Trump’s Executive Order directs Attorney General Pam Bondi to review and develop a plan of action regarding President Biden’s unlawful firearms regulations. We ask that you work with the Attorney General to quickly identify and rescind these policies.”

    Co-signers of this letter include Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), James Lankford (R-Okla.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.).

    Full text of the letter can be found here.

    Dear Deputy Director Richardson:

    Thank you for your service in leading the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) during the presidential transition. On Friday, February 7, 2025, President Donald J. Trump took decisive action to reaffirm law-abiding Americans’ Second Amendment rights in issuing his Executive Order, Protecting Second Amendment Rights. We urge you to immediately align ATF’s rules and policies with the President’s strong support for the Second Amendment.

    Under former President Joe Biden, ATF adopted numerous policies and rules that infringed upon Americans’ Second Amendment protections. President Trump’s Executive Order directs Attorney General Pam Bondi to review and develop a plan of action regarding President Biden’s unlawful firearms regulations. We ask that you work with the Attorney General to quickly identify and rescind these policies. In particular, we call your attention to the following anti-Second Amendment regulations and policies, which must be immediately rescinded:

    • The engaged in the business rule, which is an unconstitutional attempt to move ATF to do all it can to impose universal background checks on law-abiding Americans. ATF has been enjoined, at least temporarily, from enforcing the rule because it violated the text of the Gun Control Act.
    • The pistol brace rule, which improperly reclassifies pistols equipped with stabilizing braces as “short-barreled rifles” (SBRs), thereby subjecting them to stringent regulations and serious criminal penalties under the National Firearms Act and the Gun Control Act. We are troubled by the fact that ATF promulgated this rule after it previously determined that attaching a stabilizing brace to a pistol did not render the pistol an SBR. This rule threatens to put stabilizing braces out of reach of millions of gun owners, including disabled combat veterans who rely on them to be able to shoot heavy pistols. Furthermore, the rule made law-abiding Americans felons overnight for having lawfully purchased stabilizing brace equipped pistols. Multiple courts have already found the rule to be arbitrary and capricious under the Administrative Procedure Act, and it was ordered vacated by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas. We appreciate the Government’s recent motions to hold ATF’s 5th and 11th Circuit appeals defending the rule in abeyance and to postpone oral argument, and ATF should work quickly to accede to the vacatur given the ongoing litigation.
    • The so-called “ghost gun” rule, which cracks down on law-abiding hobbyists who are exercising their Second Amendment rights to privately build firearms—a longstanding tradition that traces back to the Colonial Era. The regulations are currently before the Supreme Court, but ATF should act immediately to rescind this rule.
    • The “zero tolerance” policy, under which ATF has revoked the licenses of federal firearm licensees (FFLs) over minor bookkeeping violations. This policy violates a decades-long precedent of ATF working with FFLs to address these minor, unintentional violations and revoking FFL licenses only in cases of major, willful violations that threaten public safety. ATF should develop a program to restore the federal firearms licenses of those FFLs whose licenses were unfairly revoked—or surrendered under duress—where they did not engage in willful conduct (as understood prior to June 23, 2021, when the policy was announced) and do not represent at threat to public safety.

    In addition to promptly rescinding these rules and policies, we urge you to immediately destroy the hundreds of millions of ATF Form 4473 firearm transaction records and other licensee records that are over 20 years old. These records have no particular law enforcement value but do contain the sensitive information of millions of law-abiding gun owners. ATF should likewise return to the policy of allowing FFLs to destroy Form 4473 in their possession that are over 20 years old, which the Biden Administration initiated in violation of the federal prohibition on gun registration. Ending the policy of retaining these very old records will save money for the American taxpayer and counteract ATF’s unconstitutional rule change.

    Furthermore, we urge you to “continue collaboration to improve the process for” National Firearms Act applications. Congress recently instructed ATF to make these improvements. While NFA wait times have improved significantly, ATF must continue to “address ongoing delays in application processing times” until the archaic process is at least as efficient as the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. There is no reason that the right to purchase a firearm should be so greatly delayed; a right delayed is a right denied.

    The foregoing should not be considered a full accounting of every action or policy for which ATF may be held responsible under President Trump’s Executive Order but represent obvious and high priority places for ATF to initiate compliance.

    We look forward to working with you through the transition as you implement President Trump’s agenda and reorient ATF toward protecting Americans’ Second Amendment rights.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: “Through sustained action and engagement, things change in our country. They can change much faster than we expect,” Senator Coons writes ahead of Selma anniversary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons

    WASHINGTON – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), published an op-ed today in an issue of the Ripon Forum dedicated to the upcoming 60th anniversary of the Bloody Sunday attack on civil rights marchers in Selma, Alabama on March 7.

    Commemorating the anniversary of the Selma march, Senator Coons reflected on his friendship with John Lewis, the civil rights activist-turned-Congressman who retained hope in the promise of America despite growing up poor in the segregated South and nearly being beaten to death on Bloody Sunday. It was only a matter of months after the Selma march that the Voting Rights Act was enacted, protecting the values of American democracy.

    Today, American democracy once again needs protection. He describes how President Donald Trump’s “efforts to ‘flood the zone’ with shock and awe actions are an attempt to convince the country not just that this is how things are, but how they will always be going forward.” In the face of that assault, however, Senator Coons reminds Americans that through sustained action and engagement, change can come quickly to our country, and he urges Americans to reflect on Lewis’ courage and commitment to justice.

    Ripon Forum: Why Selma Matters Today

    “For many Americans, the promise of the Constitution seems hard to hang onto right now. Over the last several weeks, the new administration has tried to shred the rule of law and the traditions and institutions our government has relied on. President Trump’s efforts to “flood the zone” with shock and awe actions are an attempt to convince the country not just that this is how things are, but how they will always be going forward. 

    It is easy to give into despair and bitterness. Instead, I hope voters will think about John [Lewis] and the Selma marchers, only months away from realizing their dreams of the full right to vote. Through sustained action and engagement, things change in our country. They can change much faster than we expect.

    We must work hard to restore the things we believe in, even if it seems hope is limited: a vision of human rights that is inclusive, a commitment to the rule of law that is sustained, a belief in life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

    Change may not come in a matter of months, but above all else, we cannot stop believing that it will come. Despite it all, John never gave up on the promise of America and the work required to make it real. Neither may we.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Funding for regional groups for stocking native fish in local waters now available

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Funding for regional groups for stocking native fish in local waters now available

    Published: 25 February 2025

    Released by: Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW

    The Minns Labor Government has announced that funding for fishing clubs and native fish stocking groups is now available for restocking regional rivers and dams with iconic native fish such as Australian Bass, Golden Perch and Murray Cod.

    These fish are also appreciated as highly sought after angling fish that support recreational fishing and local tourism.

    The NSW Government is committed to delivering for recreational fishers and the NSW regional environment to preserve the many locations and lifestyles that are special for families and locals.

    Two dollars in funding is provided from for every dollar raised by the community to purchase Australian Bass, Golden Perch and Murray Cod from accredited commercial fish hatcheries for stocking into public waterways.

    This program is part of the Government’s commitment to recreational fishers and helps boost native fish stocks to deliver enhanced fishing opportunities into regional waterways where factors such as carp and drought may have hindered native fish stock levels.

    The program also supports the regional aquaculture ventures which produce the high-quality fish stock that are released release into public waters to benefit recreational fishers. These ventures provide local jobs in the regions at hatcheries and breeding sites.

    Last year 70 grants were approved under the program and delivered fish stocks for local fishing clubs to restock waterways in places like Lake Cargelligo, Leeton, Walgett, Bermagui, Nowra, Goulburn, Tumut and Yass.

    Australian bass live in coastal rivers along the east coast and downstream for breeding from may to August. Golden Perch occur throughout the Murray-darling river system and are migratory species following increases in water flow up stream during spring and summer.

    Murray Cod encompass most of the Murray Darling Rivers and mature adults will travel long distances to spawn during spring and summer.

    Fish stocking in NSW is carefully managed under a fish stocking fishery management strategy to ensure sustainability to ensure the activity is conducted with appropriate environmental controls and generates quality recreational fishing outcomes.

    Groups interested in applying for the grants, can apply online before the closing dates for the Community Native Fish Stocking (CNFS) 2025/26 grants program. Fish stocking is expected to take place between November 2025 and April 2026.

    A minimum of $2,000 and a maximum of $6,000 per application per group is required.  Only one application per group may be submitted.

    Applications to stock Australian Bass close on 28 March 2025. 

    Applications to stock Golden Perch or Murray Cod close on 9 May 2025.

    To apply https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/stocking/CNFS

    Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

    “Our Government is focused on delivering great recreational fishing and environmental outcomes. This program delivers in every way for fishers by populating highly popular native sportfish in regional waterways.

    “These fish stocking events will help diversify and enhance our valuable native fishery, increase fishing amenity and support local businesses.

    “Millions of fish are produced and stocked by government and private sector hatcheries each year into rivers, streams and dams across the State to improve recreational fishing opportunities in NSW that create jobs for regional people.

    “Native fish stocking provides many economic and social benefits, as well as positive environmental outcomes due to the importance of native fish in the landscape.

    “This is another great example of your fishing licence fees at work. More information on fish stocking can be found online.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Scientists have discovered a 3 billion-year-old beach buried on Mars

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Aaron J. Cavosie, Senior lecturer, School of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Curtin University

    A view of the Utopia Planitia region on Mars which is believed to be the site of an ancient ocean. ESA/DLR/FU Berlin, CC BY-SA

    In the 1970s, images from the NASA Mariner 9 orbiter revealed water-sculpted surfaces on Mars. This settled the once-controversial question of whether water ever rippled over the red planet.

    Since then, more and more evidence has emerged that water once played a large role on our planetary neighbour.

    For example, Martian meteorites record evidence for water back to 4.5 billion years ago. On the young side of the timescale, impact craters formed over the past few years show the presence of ice under the surface today.

    Today the hot topics focus on when water appeared, how much was there, and how long it lasted. Perhaps the most burning of all Mars water-related topics nowadays is: were there ever oceans?

    A new study published in PNAS today has made quite a splash. The study involved a team of Chinese and American scientists led by Jianhui Li from Guangzhou University in China, and was based on work done by the China National Space Administration’s Mars rover Zhurong.

    Data from Zhurong provide an unprecedented look into rocks buried near a proposed shoreline billions of years old. The researchers claim to have found beach deposits from an ancient Martian ocean.

    An illustration of Mars 3.6 billion years ago, when an ocean may have covered nearly half the planet. The orange star (right) is the landing site of the Chinese rover Zhurong. The yellow star is the landing site of NASA’s Perseverance rover.
    Robert Citron/Southwest Research Institute/NASA

    Blue water on a red planet

    Rovers exploring Mars study many aspects of the planet, including the geology, soil and atmosphere. They’re often looking for any evidence of water. That’s in part because water is a vital factor for determining if Mars ever supported life.

    Sedimentary rocks are often a particular focus of investigations, because they can contain evidence of water – and therefore life – on Mars.

    For example, the NASA Perseverance rover is currently searching for life in a delta deposit. Deltas are triangular regions often found where rivers flow into larger bodies of water, depositing large amounts of sediment. Examples on Earth include the Mississippi delta in the United States and the Nile delta in Egypt.

    The delta the Perseverance rover is exploring is located within the roughly 45km wide Jezero impact crater, believed to be the site of an ancient lake.

    Zhurong had its sights set on a very different body of water – the vestiges of an ancient ocean located in the northern hemisphere of Mars.

    Topography of Utopia Planitia. Lower parts of the surface are shown in blues and purples, while higher altitude regions show up in whites and reds, as indicated on the scale to the top right.
    ESA/DLR/FU Berlin

    The god of fire

    The Zhurong rover is named after a mythical god of fire.

    It was launched by the Chinese National Space Administration in 2020 and was active on Mars from 2021 to 2022. Zhurong landed within Utopia Planitia, a vast expanse and the largest impact basin on Mars which stretches some 3,300km in diameter.

    Zhurong is investigating an area near a series of ridges – described as paleoshorelines – that extend for thousands of kilometres across Mars. The paleoshorelines have previously been interpreted as the remnants of a global ocean that encircled the northern third of Mars.

    However, there are differing views among scientists about this, and more observations are needed.

    On Earth, the geologic record of oceans is distinctive. Modern oceans are only a few hundreds of millions of years old. Yet the global rock record is riddled with deposits made by many older oceans, some several billions of years old.

    This diagram shows how a series of beach deposits would have formed at the Zhurong landing site in the distant past on Mars.
    Hai Liu/Guangzhou University

    What lies beneath

    To determine if rocks in Utopia Planitia are consistent with having been deposited by an ocean, the rover collected data along a 1.3km measured line known as a transect at the margin of the basin. The transect was oriented perpendicular to the paleoshoreline. The goal was to work out what rock types are there, and what story they tell.

    The Zhurong rover used a technique called ground penetrating radar, which probed down to 100 metres below the surface. The data revealed many characteristics of the buried rocks, including their orientation.

    Rocks imaged along the transect contained many reflective layers that are visible by ground penetrating radar down to at least 30 metres. All the layers also dip shallowly into the basin, away from the paleoshoreline. This geometry exactly reflects how sediments are deposited into oceans on Earth.

    The ground penetrating radar also measured how much the rocks are affected by an electrical field. The results showed the rocks are more likely to be sedimentary and are not volcanic flows, which can also form layers.

    The study compared Zhurong data gathered from Utopia Planitia with ground penetrating radar data for different sedimentary environments on Earth.

    The result of the comparison is clear – the rocks Zhurong imaged are a match for coastal sediments deposited along the margin of an ocean.

    Zhurong found a beach.

    Photograph of frosted terrain on Utopia Planitia, taken by the Viking 2 lander in 1979.
    NASA/JPL

    A wet Mars

    The Noachian period of Martian history, from 4.1 to 3.7 billion years ago, is the poster child for a wet Mars. There is abundant evidence from orbital images of valley networks and mineral maps that the surface of Noachian Mars had surface water.

    However, there is less evidence for surface water during the Hesperian period, from 3.7 to 3 billion years ago. Stunning orbital images of large outflow channels in Hesperian land forms, including an area of canyons known as Kasei Valles, are believed to have formed from catastrophic releases of ground water, rather than standing water.

    From this view, Mars appears to have cooled down and dried up by Hesperian time.

    However, the Zhurong rover findings of coastal deposits formed in an ocean may indicate that surface water was stable on Mars longer than previously recognised. It may have lasted into the Late Hesperian period.

    This may mean that habitable environments, around an ocean, extended to more recent times.

    Aaron J. Cavosie has received funding from Australian Research Council and the Space Science and Technology Centre at Curtin University.

    – ref. Scientists have discovered a 3 billion-year-old beach buried on Mars – https://theconversation.com/scientists-have-discovered-a-3-billion-year-old-beach-buried-on-mars-250496

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Chinese live fire: a wake-up call for NZ’s investment priorities

    Source: ACT Party

    “Chinese war ships engaging in live fire in the Tasman Sea ought to be a wake-up call for our investment priorities,” says ACT Defence spokesperson Mark Cameron.

    “We have been taking the so-called benign strategic environment for granted, but the rule of history is that big fish eat the little fish. New Zealand needs to wake up, get together with its mates, and up our defensive capability – fast.

    “Lifting investment in Defence is a matter of security, but also of prosperity. Our fisheries, sea mining, trade routes, and Exclusive Economic Zone hold untold economic value, and any serious strategy to grow the economy will rely on our continued control of these assets.

    “Prior to the election, ACT campaigned on increasing defence spending to 1.5% of GDP, or $4.35 billion over four years, with a long-term target of reaching 2% by 2030.

    “Australia’s defence spending has already surged above 2%, heading to 2.4% by the end of the decade. We need to do our part and work with our friends to effectively direct our investment, so that we can be taken seriously as an ally worth defending.

    “Crucially, ACT is open to debate around tough trade-offs in spending and investment to make a Defence boost possible.

    “This morning, the New Zealand Initiative released a report valuing the government’s existing assets at $571 billion. It raises some interesting questions. Does it make more sense for the government to own a television station, or a P8 Poseidon? Should we keep a 51% share in a power company, or get our hands on some more frigates?

    “ACT would argue it’s time to pull money out of the nice-to-haves, and invest in the men and women who protect our livelihoods.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advocacy – Over 150 police storm peaceful protection of Lake Rotokākahi

    Source: Protect Rotokākahi

    Over 150 police storm peaceful protection of Lake Rotokākahi

    On Monday at 8pm, over 150 police officers arrived at Lake Rotokākahi, where members of Tūhourangi, Tūmatawera Hapū and their supporters have been holding space with the goal of protecting this wāhi tapu (sacred site).

    Reports on the ground suggest several arrests have been made.

    Rotokākahi has been a site of controversy due to the Rotorua Lakes District Council’s planned Tarawera Sewerage Scheme. This scheme places a sewer line through a sacred site where over 100 tūpuna perished during the Lake Tarawera eruption of 1886.

    Mana i te whenua have disputed this decision since it was announced, and have taken several avenues to oppose it – including filing against the council in the Environment Court.

    This police escalation occurs during the same week as Te Matatini, a time where the public’s eyes and attention are focused on celebrating kapa haka from around Aotearoa.

    Waiata such as “Ngā iwi e” and “Rua Kenana” have been heard from livestreams taken at Rotokākahi tonight, with the sight of rows of police facing the singers.

    Protectors have been peacefully and legally holding space at Rotokākahi since August of 2024. Their numbers recently swelled after mana i te whenua invited the nation to join them in their peaceful noho whenua to protect Rotokākahi.

    The Protect Rotokākahi Instagram states in a call-to-action for its supporters:

    “This is a tohu that the desecration of Māori land will come with its own private protectors, paid for with your money.”

    “We need to protect this. We need you here.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Activist News – Peace diplomacy must lead in addressing Chinese warships in Tasman Sea – PAW

    Source: Peace Action Wellington

    Over the past five days, a group of Chinese warships has been travelling
    in the Tasman Sea and practicing live fire drills. The NZ Navy and Australian Navy have been deployed to keep watch on the ships’ movements and activities.

    “Alarm over the deployment of Chinese warships is a deeply hypocritical reaction and represents a double-standard of impressive height.
    Moreover, the Prime Minister’s suggestion that weapons spending will go up is opportunistic and in the service of US imperial aims, not NZ security,” said Valerie Morse of Peace Action Wellington.

    “The government is behaving hypocritically: US warships invade and occupy spaces across the globe, enforcing US power and dominance, including directly off the coast of China, something the US itself would never abide by on its own seaboard. Yet not only is there no criticism of the US, there is active participation by the NZDF in the US’s imperial war mongering in places like the Red Sea.”

    “By the same token, New Zealand has previously hosted Chinese warships in the ports of Auckland and Wellington.”

    “No one should be under an illusion any longer that the US represents a force for good in the world or the upholding of international law and norms. The US has declared war on international law and is using its military to enforce US supremacy with missiles. This actively undermines New Zealand security.”

    “At the same time, the Chinese state is an authoritarian nightmare with an aggressive plan for military spending and zero regard for human rights. The experiences in Hong Kong and Xinjiang should be evidence for how much respect China has for basic rights and freedoms.”

    “This is why the response of the New Zealand government should not be to play into the US’s anti-China rhetoric but instead should be a strong voice for peace, diplomacy and disarmament. It is critically important that New Zealand ends participation in dangerous and counterproductive US military activities including active deployments in the Middle East, space launches, training and through the Five Eyes intelligence agencies. Now is the time for a foreign policy that actually puts people and planet first, not weapons companies and US capitalists.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kevin Lombardo’s Family Rebuilt Their Home and Lives After Marshall Fire

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    Fire Survivors Embraced an Energy-Efficient Passive Design Structure

    The family is settling into their new house, enjoying the benefits of the efficient design. Photo from Trendum Media

    Sitting in a friend’s Boulder, Colorado, townhouse after the Dec. 30, 2021, Marshall Fire burned his family’s home to the ground, Kevin Lombardo, a National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Client and Infrastructure Services manager, was struck by the enormity of what they faced.

    He and his wife Casey had grabbed their two young sons and some precious belongings to flee just before the Marshall Fire engulfed their Louisville, Colorado, home of six years. Driven by wind gusts up to 115 mph, Colorado’s most destructive wildfire ever quickly destroyed 1,100 structures in Louisville, Superior, and unincorporated Boulder County. Two residents died in the firestorm.

    “I don’t really know what to do,” Lombardo recalled thinking. “Do I file an insurance claim? Take a picture? Still pay my mortgage? This feels bigger than that.”

    Lombardo, who has worked in tech since he was a teen growing up in New Jersey, is used to problem solving and was familiar with NREL’s building expertise.

    Having started at NREL in 2007 as a contractor before becoming a full-time employee the following year, Lombardo said, “I know a little bit of a lot of what NREL does. I’ve worked with the buildings folks in the past. Our team [in IT] supports [the U.S. Department of Energy] DOE and the Solar Decathlon.”

    But starting from scratch to rebuild his family’s home was overwhelming. He was not thinking of anything special. All he wanted to do was replace their dwelling. “I felt like: I don’t care. Let’s put a house back,” he said.

    Their former home was an almost unidentifiable scorched lot filled with rubble. Only a surviving metal mailbox revealed where they had lived. “All the landmarks were gone,” he said.

    The next few months became an exhausting blur of trying to navigate a new reality. Slowly, with support from the community and neighbors—getting donated clothing, food, as well as emotional and logistical support—they began with others a journey to recovery, becoming “fire survivors,” not victims.

    During a building webinar about passive-designed homes, which use a building strategy that relies on natural sources of heating and cooling to reduce energy use, a new vision finally clicked. While such designs have been around for decades, they are employed more commonly on the East and West coasts using various building techniques to increase building efficiency.

    Encouraged by an Xcel Energy rebate program designed to ease the demand for electricity, the Lombardos began exploring a way to rebuild a better structure.

    “It hadn’t crossed my mind at first,” he said. “Then it clicked. I blame my mental state at the time.”

    After a series of meetings with different builders, the Lombardos decided on an architect, builder, and landscaper who shared their vision. Their ties to NREL emerged.

    “I asked my architect and builder, ‘Did you guys ever hear of this Solar Decathlon?’” Lombardo recalled. “And my architect said, ‘Yeah, I competed in it.’ My builder said that he had consulted with some of the student teams.”

    The exterior of Kevin’s rebuilt home. Photo from Trendum Media

    NREL-Tested Building Technology Used

    Techniques tested at the competition and validated at NREL came into play.

    “We were holistically tied together,” Lombardo said, noting that after only a couple of meetings, they had a concept. “It took off, and it took off fast.”

    Still, it took time. On Sept. 1, 2022, the Lombardo family moved into their secondary rental property in Louisville. The property was unharmed but occupied by renters during the Marshall Fire.

    The new footprint that emerged was solid: a three-story, 2,572 square-foot rectangular home, slightly larger than their previous house. But the difference was obvious, reflecting their own adjustments and personal touches. Even the two boys, Max and Miles, had input. The architect asked the boys to draw what they would like. Overjoyed, both sketched out rooms that, as Lombardo said, look like something from Tony Stark’s Iron Man lab. Their desires became reality. Both have lofts in their bedrooms connected by a secret bookshelf door. This helped comfort the youngsters who had been frightened by the devastation.

    The loft inside of the Lombardo house was suggested by the two boys. Photo from Trendum Media

    Other construction elements incorporated a mix of traditional and cutting-edge building techniques.

    The new home is situated on their reclaimed lot to ensure maximum exposure to the sun in the winter, yet the house also has awnings to protect from too much sun in the summer. The exterior of the house is corrugated steel. Also, the entire house is air sealed, and all the vents are ember-resistant vents. That way, if there is another fire and an ember hits the vent, a material within the vent expands to prevent the fire from entering. Exterior walls are thicker than normal construction, employing a 12-inch double-stud technique, which helps with both insulation and fire resistance.

    Furthermore, the house is all-electric, utilizing a heat pump for any active heating and cooling that might be needed, and solar panels are being installed. Control and monitoring of the energy usage, air quality, and mechanical systems are accomplished through multiple sensors and an open-source home-automation platform running on a local server in the house.

    The Lombardos also chose to leverage additional techniques such as recycled denim and cellulose insulation, a concrete-free “slab” under the ground floor, and a laundry-to-landscape gray water implementation that helps provide irrigation to their native and waterwise perennials and trees in the front yard.

    Finally, in spring 2024, the family moved into the house. Hours after the movers left, the electric utility shut off the power for 42 hours due to high winds. A lot of the neighbors got cold and uncomfortable and left for hotels, but because of the high performance of their house, the Lombardos stayed comfortable and warm with no active heating.

    The family loves it, even though they still need to make the home their own. “It sort of feels like being on a vacation,” Lombardo said.

    The house has drawn plenty of attention as one of several green-technique homes in the neighborhood. They have opened it up for tours, including the Boulder Green Homes Tour in June when more than 140 visitors stopped by.

    As time goes by, it becomes more and more like home. “Finding a place for the Christmas tree will make it seem more like ours,” Lombardo said.

    Yet, memories of the tragedy linger.

    “We don’t want to go through it again. I don’t want my kids feeling like they’re living in a house where it could happen again,” Lombardo said. “So, yes, a fire can happen again. Nothing is fireproof, really.”

    But Lombardo and his family feel comfortable knowing that they have done the best possible to ensure their house is safe and energy efficient—and perhaps an inspiration to others.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet, Colleagues Reintroduce Bill to Combat Wildfires, Drought Across the West

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
    Protect the West Act would invest $60 billion to reduce wildfire risks, restore watersheds, and protect communities
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper, Michael Bennet, Ron Wyden, Ruben Gallego, and Jacky Rosen reintroduced the Protect the West Act, which invests $60 billion in forests across the West to reduce wildfire risk, restore watersheds, protect communities, and decrease the cost of fighting wildfires.
    “Colorado’s forests, grasslands, and waterways are the bedrock of our outdoor economy,” said Hickenlooper. “Every effort we make to prevent wildfires and mitigate the impact of climate change is an investment in Colorado’s future.”
    “In the West, our forests, grasslands, and watersheds are essential to our economy and way of life. But they are under threat from the worsening effects of climate change and consistent underinvestment from the federal government,” said Bennet. “As we face a 1,200-year megadrought and wildfire season that never seems to end, we need to break from the status quo and invest in the restoration of our forests and public lands to meet this challenge. We have no time to waste.”
    “Climate change is threatening our way of life in Colorado. We must act,” said Crow. “The Protect the West Act would help combat intensifying wildfires and help better protect Colorado communities.”
    “With summers getting dryer and hotter, the West and Oregon’s treasured lands are a tinderbox waiting to light ablaze,” said Wyden. “In my town halls, I’ve heard countless Oregonians fearing for their health and safety while struggling to maintain their economic livelihood as severe drought and wildfires wreak more havoc on their communities every year. More investments are needed to protect our forests and watersheds so local communities across the West are healthy and can have the opportunity to explore its beautiful natural treasures for generations.”
    “In Arizona and across the West, we face a rapidly growing backlog of projects for wildfire mitigation, drought resilience, and land restoration,” said Gallego. “I’m proud to help introduce the Protect the West Act which will finally give states and tribes the tools they need to take on these projects, all while creating good-paying jobs and boosting rural economies.”
    “Nevada’s forests and public lands are increasingly susceptible to wildfires, drought, and other extreme weather events. We need to do everything we can to protect our communities from the damage caused by these disasters and bolster our ability to recover,” said Rosen. “This critical legislation will support Nevada’s wildfire mitigation and restoration efforts, helping to keep Nevadans safe. I’ll always work to ensure Nevada has the resources it needs to fight wildfires and other weather-related events.”
    In the West, our strong outdoor rec industry and our agricultural communities depend on healthy lands, forests, and waterways. Increasingly frequent wildfires threaten those communities and our economy.
    Currently, the federal government spends approximately $2.9 billion to fight wildfires every year, with costs expected to increase by a billion by 2050. Already, the U.S. spent nearly $48 billion fighting wildfires over the last five years.
    Preventing wildfires before they even start is thirty times more cost-effective. Investing in fire mitigation and making our communities more resilient will save taxpayers money by reducing response and recovery costs.
    Specifically, the Protect the West Act would:
    Establish an Outdoor Restoration & Watershed Fund to better support local efforts to restore forests and watersheds, reduce wildfire risk, clean up public lands, enhance wildlife habitat, remove invasive species, and expand outdoor access
    Establish an advisory council of local, industry, conservation, Tribal, and national experts to advise funding priorities, coordinate with existing regional efforts, and provide oversight
    Empower local leaders by making $20 billion directly available to state and local governments, Tribes, special districts, and nonprofits to support restoration, drought resilience, and fire mitigation projects
    Partner with states and Tribes to invest $40 billion to tackle the backlog of restoration, fire mitigation, and resilience projects
    Create or sustain over two million good-paying jobs, primarily in rural areas, to support existing industries like forest product, agriculture, and outdoor recreation
    Save landowners and local governments money by investing in wildfire prevention and natural hazard mitigation.
    “The Protect the West Act is a significant investment in Colorado’s natural resources and Colorado is proud to support its reintroduction in the US Senate,” said Dan Gibbs, Executive Director, Colorado State Department of Natural Resources. “As Colorado experiences drought and continued threats from devastating wildfires, now is the time to invest in Colorado’s forests, watersheds, and landscapes that drive economic activity across the west, employ thousands of Americans, and provide environmental and ecological benefits to our communities and wildlife.”
    “One of the greatest threats to our Tribal lands are the devastating wildfires caused by the extreme drought conditions in the western United States,”said the Southern Ute Indian Tribe. “Sen. Bennet’s Protect the West Act will provide much needed investment in conservation, restoration and wildfire mitigation. A key component of this legislation is Sen. Bennet’s recognition of the importance that Tribes have in land use and regulation, assuring that funds will be made available directly to Tribes for maintenance of our forests, watersheds and rangeland. Moreover, he assures that Tribes will have a seat at the table in determining the distribution of funds, ensuring that there will be a tribal representative working alongside our state and federal partners on the Restoration Fund Advisory Council. We thank Sen. Bennet for introduction of this important legislation and look forward to its swift passage in Congress.”
    “Healthy watersheds face numerous challenges, including increasing drought, longer and hotter fire seasons, disconnected watersheds and degraded streams that no longer support healthy fisheries. The most effective way to tackle this challenge is through partnerships and collaborative conservation at the landscape scale,” said Chris Wood, President and CEO of Trout Unlimited. “The Protect the West Act would foster collaboration and provide resources for public-private partnerships to restore lands and waters across multiple jurisdictions, creating jobs and better fishing along the way. We thank Senator Bennet for his leadership and vision to restore our lands and waters at the scope and scale that will make a difference for future generations.”
    “The Colorado River District’s highest priority is to protect the water security of Western Colorado. Water security starts with our forests,” said Andy Mueller, General Manager, Colorado River District. “Our largest source of water is the snowpack that develops in our forests above 9,000 feet in elevation, mostly on federal lands. Sen. Michael Bennet’s $60 billion Protect the West Act proposal is a direct water security initiative through the funding of proactive watershed protection actions. These actions would help prevent catastrophic fires and start restoration work where warming temperatures and fires have already done harm. It’s noteworthy that $20 billion will be available to fund projects generated at the state and local levels. We applaud Senator Bennet for advocating for important western priorities in the Senate.”
     “I support the Senator’s Protect the West Act. This is a great first step in recognizing and acknowledging the problem that was created over 30 years ago,” said Merrit Linke, Grand County Commissioner. “The lack of proactive management and the ‘hands-off’ approach is now clearly having devastating effects on our communities, forest health and sustainable watersheds. This bill addresses this problem, provides much needed funding, and hopefully is the beginning of a new era in resource management. Now it is time to get to work.”
     “As Western communities continue to face the threats and the impacts of the climate crisis, now is the time to pursue initiatives that will help us become more resilient,” said Jon Goldin-Dubois, President of Western Resource Advocates. “The Protect the West Act will provide critical resources to help Western states mitigate wildfire, restore forests, improve air and water quality, and advance equity, all while pumping billions of dollars into local economies and supporting millions of good-paying jobs; it’s a true win-win. We applaud Senator Bennet for his leadership and look forward to supporting this legislation to build a more resilient West.”
    “Healthy forests support fish and wildlife habitat and outdoor access important to hunters, anglers, and recreationists in Colorado and across the nation,” said Joel Pedersen, CEO, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “However, decades of inadequate funding for forest management have placed a strain on the National Forest System that will require active management and sustained funding to increase workforce capacity. Further, these investments will help to ensure we’re better prepared to address the growing risks associated with wildfire.  The TRCP applauds the proactive investments in our forests and watersheds and the additional resources for growing the forest management workforce provided through the Protect the West Act.”
    The bill is supported by: The National Wildlife Federation, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, National Association of State Foresters, The Freshwater Trust, American Forests, National Wild Turkey Federation, National Audubon Society, Family Farm Alliance, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Western Landowners Alliance, Western Resource Advocates, Trout Unlimited, and Conservation Legacy.
    U.S. Representative Jason Crow introduced companion legislation in the House.
    The full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: World News in Brief: Famine in Sudan, Gaza polio campaign continues, West Bank update, Kenyan officer killed in Haiti

    Source: United Nations 2

    Peace and Security

    Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern on Monday following the announcement by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia and affiliated groups, of a political charter proposing the establishment of a rival governing authority in RSF-controlled areas to the transitional Government.

    He warned in a statement issued by his spokesperson that this further escalation of the battle for the country between Government troops and their former RSF allies, deepens the fragmentation of Sudan and risks entrenching the crisis even further.

    Sudan is in the grip of a catastrophic crisis as “bloodshed, displacement and famine are engulfing the country,” he said earlier at the opening of the latest UN Human Rights Council session in Geneva.

    Preserving the nation’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity remains crucial for a sustainable resolution and long-term stability in Sudan and the wider region.

    The Secretary-General also condemned the persistent violence against civilians perpetrated by both sides of the conflict – including ethnically motivated attacks – with Sudanese civilians paying the highest price for the ongoing war.

    His Personal Envoy for the Sudan, Ramtane Lamamra, is actively engaging the warring parties and relevant stakeholders to secure a cessation of hostilities, protect civilians, ensure humanitarian access, and promote de-escalation, the UN chief’s statement said.

    Gaza and the West Bank: Health campaigns and humanitarian relief

    In Gaza, the emergency polio outbreak response continues, with a mass vaccination campaign which began on Saturday scheduled to run until 26 February.

    The novel oral polio vaccine is set to be administered to more than 591,000 children under the age of 10, targeting those previously missed, in order to close immunity gaps and halt the outbreak.

    “Over 261,000 children in Gaza received their polio vaccine on the first day of the campaign, despite all challenges,” noted a representative of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

    Since the ceasefire took effect, UN humanitarian partners have distributed tents, sealing materials, and tarpaulins to families – particularly in northern Gaza.

    Additionally, over 80,000 children have been screened for malnutrition, and thousands of families have received hygiene kits and water supplies.

    OCHA emphasised that sustaining these humanitarian efforts will require continued international funding and a lasting ceasefire.

    Meanwhile, the World Food Programme (WFP) said on Monday the ceasefire has enabled it to reach one million people across Gaza with food assistance, including fresh bread, hot meals and cash support, while preparing to extend its reach further across both Gaza and the West Bank.

    West Bank turmoil continues

    Nevertheless, OCHA has confirmed that Israeli forces continue operations in northern areas of the West Bank, with reports of home demolitions in the Tulkarm refugee camp adding to displacement and destruction.

    Mr. Guterres called for “a permanent ceasefire” in Gaza and “the dignified release of all remaining hostages”.

    Kenyan police officer killed in a Haiti anti-gang operation

    A Kenyan police officer serving with the Security Council-backed Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) in Haiti died on Sunday after sustaining injuries during an anti-gang operation in the lower Artibonite region, marking the mission’s first casualty.

    The officer was wounded during a security operation in Pont Sonde, as part of efforts to curb escalating gang violence. In a statement, the MSS confirmed the death, expressing condolences to his family and colleagues.

    Mr. Guterres also reacted to the news, saying he was “deeply saddened” by the officer’s death and extended his sympathies to “the family of the police officer, the people and Government of Kenya, and of course all of his colleagues in the MSS.”

    The tragic incident comes amid worsening insecurity in Haiti, where gangs control large parts of the country.

    Speaking in Geneva, Mr. Guterres underscored the severity of the crisis. “In Haiti, we are seeing massive human rights violations – including more than a million people displaced, and children facing a horrific increase in sexual violence and recruitment into gangs,” he said.

    To address the crisis, the Secretary-General announced plans to propose new measures to the Security Council, including strengthening support for the MSS, the Haitian National Police, and Haitian authorities.

    “A durable solution requires a political process – led and owned by the Haitian people – that restores democratic institutions through elections,” he added.

    The officer’s death highlights the growing dangers facing international forces deployed to stabilise the country. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: OP-ED: Firing Military Officers for Perceived Political Disloyalty Endangers the Nation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    The following op-ed by U.S. Senator Jack Reed appeared exclusively in The Washington Post:

    Donald Trump’s quest for power is endangering our military.

    On Friday evening, the president dismissed Air Force Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, as well as Adm. Lisa Franchetti, the chief of naval operations, and a number of other senior officers — including the judge advocates general for the Army, Navy and Air Force — for perceived political disloyalty. He is also reportedly considering dismissing additional officers who lack “requisite leadership qualities.”

    The implications for our national security cannot be overstated. A clear message is being sent to military leaders: Failure to demonstrate personal and political loyalty to Trump could result in retribution, even after decades of honorable service. In particular, firing the military’s most senior legal advisers is an unprecedented and explicit move to install officers who will yield to the president’s interpretation of the law, with the expectation they will be little more than yes men on the most consequential questions of military law.

    Trump has already fired the Coast Guard’s top admiral, Linda Fagan, for reasons that appear political. He has taken partisan steps by stripping retired Gen. Mark A. Milley and former defense secretary Mark T. Esper of their protective details and removing their portraits from the Pentagon.

    The firings are sure to create a dangerous ripple up and down the ranks. Leaders might hesitate to refuse illegal orders, speak their minds about best practices or call out abuses of power.

    A commitment to provide the “best military advice” exists at every level in the ranks. Commanders expect their troops to give them the facts, straight and true, because lives are on the line. But firing officers as a political litmus test poisons this military ethos. It sends an immediate signal to service members that the best military advice might have career-ending consequences.

    Congress expects the same candor from senior officers as presidents have enjoyed for decades. Lawmakers like me rely on senior officers to provide their best judgments — without fear of retribution — for both the security of our country and that of the 2 million service members who put themselves in harm’s way.

    As retired Gen. Martin Dempsey and Peter Feaver recently wrote: “Preemptively firing generals would only politicize the military and make it less candid, less ready, less professional and less lethal.”

    Trump’s advisers have defended the firings and their “warrior board” proposal by pointing to Gen. George C. Marshall’s “plucking board” of 1940, which removed senior military officers who had languished in the service for years. Marshall’s actions did lead to a number of generals being dismissed. But the current administration fails to acknowledge that Marshall’s board was not designed to cull senior leaders for their personal beliefs but rather to quickly create promotion opportunities for promising junior officers ahead of America’s entrance to World War II.

    The comparison is not relevant. Young officers at that time were stymied by a promotion system that rewarded seniority above merit, unlike today’s system.

    Further, Marshall was able to carry out his review board only because Congress — through the Second Supplemental Appropriation Act of 1940 — reformed the criteria for military promotions by prioritizing merit over seniority. Trump is endangering our security by ignoring existing law and injecting politics and nonmerit principles into the military promotion system.

    As in Marshall’s era, the United States will face threats in the years ahead, and we must ensure that the rising generation of military leaders is prepared to meet them.

    U.S. service members, like the nation they represent, are extremely diverse in racial, socioeconomic and political backgrounds. All of them should expect that they can have successful careers in the military. However, if young Americans perceive the military to be a place where leaders are punished at the whims of politicians, we will lose countless potential recruits.

    When I joined the Army in the early 1970s, the military was rife with racial tension, women were prohibited from many roles and entire communities of Americans were banned from serving. Today, our military is fully integrated and every qualified individual, regardless of gender, race, religion or sexual orientation may pursue a military career. By no coincidence, our military is more lethal than ever.

    We need it to remain so. Trump is entitled to a staff of civilians who are politically loyal to him. For the safety of all Americans, however, his military officers must remain free to give their best military advice without fear of reprisal.

    Jack Reed, a Democrat, represents Rhode Island in the U.S. Senate and is a former Army paratrooper.

    MIL OSI USA News –