NewzIntel.com

Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Working together to protect Auckland’s natural environment

    Source: Auckland Council

    Aucklanders will soon be asked for their feedback on Auckland Council’s ‘Let’s protect our environment’ consultation.

    Councillor Richard Hills, Chair of the Policy and Planning Committee encourages all Aucklanders to have their say.

    “We’re going to ask you how we can all work together to protect our environment. We can’t do this alone – we know this mahi takes a collaborative effort from so many community groups, volunteers and individuals, all working together with the council and other agencies.”

    “Let’s protect our environment will ask what we can do to continue to protect what Aucklanders value. Like our native species and ecosystems, Māori cultural values, rural primary production, and the safety and wellbeing of our communities and natural habitats.”

    Why are we asking for feedback?

    “Our current approach to protecting Auckland’s natural environment has us covered until 2030. So we’re in the early stages of planning what the updated approach will cover, which includes formal public consultation in 2027. As part of our preparation, we are going out early to ask Aucklanders for their views on select topics to inform and update our approach,” explains Dr Imogen Bassett, Auckland Council Head of Natural Environment Specialist Services.

    “This pre-consultation will give us some great early feedback on critical topics and new issues. We are also working closely with mana whenua to understand their aspirations for the taiao / environment, and we have planned an extensive programme of engagement on specific topics.”

    The public feedback, as well as engagement with mana whenua, stakeholders, and technical experts, will be used to draft a new plan for how we protect the natural environment from 2030-2040. When this draft plan is ready, you’ll be asked for your feedback on this, too.

    What has changed since our current plan was approved in 2020?

    “A lot has changed since our existing plan was drafted. Many new species have arrived from overseas, such as myrtle rust, exotic caulerpa seaweed, and freshwater gold clam. We need to consider how – and if– we should address these new risks in the future,” says Dr Bassett.

    Additionally, as our climate warms, and severe weather events become more frequent, we also need to adapt our approach. Species that originate from warmer climates may pose a greater risk to Tāmaki Makaurau in the future. Acting now can help us prevent those problems.

    Storms and floods, damage the resilience of our ecosystems, making them more vulnerable to damage from introduced species, while simultaneously spreading introduced species to new places.

    “Of course, all species are indigenous to somewhere in the world, and have value and whakapapa to those lands, regardless of the impacts they may have here in Aotearoa. We also know that there’s an economic impact to this work. Together, we need to work out where the balance lies to manage different species in different contexts,” says Cr Richard Hills.

    Auckland Council’s ‘Let’s protect our environment’ consultation opens soon (25 October to 8 December 2024). Sign up for updates on akhaveyoursay.co.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Response and Recovery Efforts Underway Across Multiple Affected by Hurricane Helene

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Response and Recovery Efforts Underway Across Multiple Affected by Hurricane Helene

    Response and Recovery Efforts Underway Across Multiple Affected by Hurricane Helene

    WASHINGTON – First responders across local and state governments, the private sector, nonprofits, faith-based organizations and the federal family continue working to address the immediate needs of survivors and their communities.

    These photos highlight response and recovery efforts across affected states impacted by Hurricane Helene. 

    President Biden has approved federal disaster assistance that is available for survivors in designated counties in Florida, Georgia North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. Survivors may apply for assistance in three ways: online by visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362 or on the FEMA App.

    Survivors may receive upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.

    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55506″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/857edeb73204d77dbc46b266f2c2e336.jpeg?itok=L9ZoNHwY” alt=”Caption: Asheville, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) – Volunteers distribute supplies to those affected by Hurricane Helene.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Asheville, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) – Volunteers distribute supplies to those affected by Hurricane Helene.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55523″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/dda6592057e439dfd4aa24c9e7690799.jpg?itok=I_98rZYb” alt=”Caption:

    Valdosta, Ga. (Sept. 30, 2024) – FEMA helps survivors of Hurricane Helene by distributing water, MREs, and tarps in Lowndes County, Georgia.

    ” class=”image-style-large”>

    Valdosta, Ga. (Sept. 30, 2024) – FEMA helps survivors of Hurricane Helene by distributing water, MREs, and tarps in Lowndes County, Georgia.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55516″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/64ca229be08c2e8e9e6957d8554c1b59.jpg?itok=9v_5E7Gt” alt=”Caption: Steinhatchee, Fla. (Oct. 1, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help survivors of Hurricane Helene.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Steinhatchee, Fla. (Oct. 1, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help survivors of Hurricane Helene.
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55497″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/ad690fcdc4cec543993db83fbbc20de4.jpg?itok=cwpj5KSr” alt=”Caption:

    Fletcher, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help Hurricane Helene survivors, including registering them for aid.

    ” class=”image-style-large”>

    Fletcher, NC (Oct. 1, 2024) – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams help Hurricane Helene survivors, including registering them for aid.
    SWANNANOA, North Carolina – Volunteers serve hot food to survivors in downtown Swannanoa. (Photo Credit: FEMA)
    View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”55553″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/c08e18a8e81aa97721e01330817a1619.jpg?itok=TLOxdx_N” alt=”Caption: Swannanoa, N.C. – (October 1, 2024) – The town of Swannanoa in Western North Carolina reels in the wake of devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.” class=”image-style-large”>
    Swannanoa, N.C. – (October 1, 2024) – The town of Swannanoa in Western North Carolina reels in the wake of devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.
    GREENVILLE, South Carolina – Members of the South Carolina Army National Guard distribute meals and water to disaster survivors in Greenville. (Photo Credit: FEMA)
    ASHEVILE, North Carolina – Members of the North Carolina Army National Guard work alongside volunteers at William W. Estes Elementary School to load meals and water for disaster survivors. (Photo Credit: FEMA)
    STEINHATCHEE, Florida. – FEMA speaks with a Hurricane Helene survivor. Agency personnel are on the ground helping survivors register for disaster assistance. (Photo Credit: FEMA)
    ASHEVILLE, North Carolina:  The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response deployed a National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) team to provide 24-hour emergency department surge support at Mission Hospital in Asheville. This is one of four sites in western North Carolina receiving NDMS medical support. (Source: HHS)

    FEMA’s Disaster Multimedia Toolkit page provides graphics, social media copy and sample text in multiple languages: Disaster Multimedia Toolkit. 

    amy.ashbridge

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Councils to share $3 million to push regional housing

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 3 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Minister for Regional NSW, Minister for Western New South Wales

    The Minns Labor Government is inviting regional councils to apply for a share of $3 million in funding for projects that will support the delivery of more well-located and affordable homes.

    From today, regional councils will be able to apply for between $20,000 and $250,000 for individual projects as part of the NSW Government’s Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund.

    Delivering more well-located homes near transport and services has been central to the NSW Government’s planning reforms so far and we’re not done.

    As regional NSW plans for and delivers more homes to its growing communities, the Minns Government is supporting that growth by funding strategic planning projects.

    Councils can use the funds to speed up new housing strategies, prepare infrastructure and servicing plans and make local planning amendments for the delivery of more diverse and affordable housing supply.

    These projects will support regional NSW work towards its housing target of 55,000 homes during the National Housing Accord.

    The first round of the program funded 20 projects across 19 councils to support the delivery of 40,000 homes. Among them was $107,400 for Port Stephens Council’s partnership with Homes NSW on a sub-precincts masterplan to support the delivery of affordable housing in Raymond Terrace.

    The second round allocated $2.9 million to 16 councils to support the delivery of nearly 23,800 homes across regional NSW, including $230,000 to Federation Council to undertake a stormwater-servicing plan supporting 5,600 homes across the Murray region.

    All NSW councils outside Greater Sydney are eligible for funding. Round three opens today and closes at 12pm on Friday 22 November 2024.

    To learn more about the fund visit https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/policy-and-legislation/housing/regional-housing/regional-housing-strategic-planning-fund

    Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

    “The housing crisis is hitting regional communities just as hard as it is hitting Sydney, and the Minns Government wants to make sure they have the resources to plan for and deliver more homes in all parts of the state.

    “As regional communities grow and evolve, this funding will help deliver the important planning work needed to boost housing supply, affordability, and diversity.

    “The NSW Government is working with regional councils on a coordinated planning approach to deal with regional housing challenges.”

    Minister for Regional NSW and Western NSW Tara Moriarty said:

    “We really encourage councils to apply and help us unlock the delivery of thousands of new regional homes sooner.

    “This funding will support more homes, which means more jobs and better communities in regional NSW.

    “Their submissions will then be assessed by an independent panel using a published criteria.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 10/2/2024 ICYMI: Blackburn Speaks with WJHL in Flooding Aftermath

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) spoke with WJHL News Channel 11 about the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in communities across East Tennessee and the federal government’s response to the crisis:
     
    Click here to watch Senator Blackburn’s interview with News Channel 11 about Hurricane Helene. 
    Blackburn, Hagerty, Harshbarger tour flood damage and answer questions
    Anslee Daniel
    WJHL News Channel 11
    Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and U.S. Senators Bill Hagerty and Marsha Blackburn spent the day touring damaged areas in Northeast Tennessee, speaking to those impacted and answering questions.
    Local leaders, including U.S. Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger, joined them at the destroyed I-26 bridge in Unicoi County to survey the damage and hear an update on recovery and rebuilding efforts.
    Interviews with Blackburn, Hagerty and Harshbarger can be watched below:
    LINK TO SENATOR BLACKBURN INTERVIEW

    RELATED:  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: East China’s Fujian halts ferry services due to typhoon-triggered storms

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

    FUZHOU, Oct. 2 — East China’s Fujian Province has announced the suspension of most of its passenger ferry services due to storms triggered by Krathon, the 18th typhoon of this year, said local maritime authorities.

    Currently, 73 out of 74 ferry routes across the province have been halted, with only one route remaining open to evacuate tourists from Gulangyu Island. When the wind force reaches grade-6, the remaining route will be suspended.

    According to China’s National Meteorological Center, Krathon was centered northeast of the South China Sea on Wednesday morning, about 125 km southwest of Kaohsiung City in Taiwan. The maximum wind speed near its center reached 48 meters per second, equivalent to a level-15 gale.

    Krathon is expected to move northeastward at 5 to 10 km per hour and is forecasted to make landfall on the southwestern coast of Taiwan Island between Wednesday night and Thursday morning.

    Additionally, 110 coastal water-related projects in Fujian have been shut down, and 246 construction vessels have sought shelters. Rescue ships, helicopters, patrol boats and harbor tugboats have been deployed as part of emergency preparations.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Securing our world—together

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Securing our world—together

    As Cybersecurity Awareness Month marks its 21st year, it’s clear that this year stands out. Phishing emails have become more convincing, and fraud has increased, making cyberattackers seem legitimate—as if they were Microsoft support or even the fraud detection services from your bank.1 And threat actors are taking advantage of the rise of AI, using it to enhance and fine-tune their strategies.

    To add to the complexity, dedicated cybersecurity teams are currently resource constrained, especially compared to their cyberattackers. Globally, the cybersecurity workforce gap has widened this year, with four million roles left unfilled in 2023—a nearly 13% year-on-year increase.2

    To help our global defenders, Microsoft has put together the Be Cybersmart Kit, designed to educate everyone on best practices for going passwordless, not falling for sophisticated phishing or fraud, device protection, AI safety, and more.

    Empower everyone to be a cybersecurity champion

    Help educate everyone in your organization with cybersecurity awareness resources and training curated by the security experts at Microsoft.

    In partnership with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) we have focused on four simple best practices:

    • Use strong passwords and consider a password manager. 
    • Turn on multifactor authentication.
    • Learn to recognize and report phishing.
    • Make sure to keep your software updated.

    “Cybersecurity is not a one-time thing, but that doesn’t mean it has to be a hassle. Small changes in our technology habits can be easy, like using multifactor authentication or keeping your devices and software up to date. All the bad news about the latest data breaches can leave us feeling powerless, but adopting simple, repeatable behaviors goes a long way to protecting our families and businesses. It’s important to stay safe online because your data is worth protecting.”

    —Lisa Plaggemie, Executive Director, NCA

    The Be Cybersmart Kit goes further, providing information and infographics that cover six of the most universally important elements of cybersecurity. These areas of focus are AI Safety, Cybersecurity 101, Devices, Fraud, Phishing, and Passwords. For example, the AI Safety infographic delivers new guidance that focuses on the safe use of AI tools within your organization, including making sure you haven’t become overconfident in AI-generated content and search results and that you’re using the AI tools provisioned by your IT organization.

    Empower your security teams with the Be Cybersmart Kit

    The Be Cybersmart Kit is a great starting point, and it’s just one of the many resources Microsoft has put together on its Cybersecurity Awareness site. Those seeking more in-depth resources can access expert-level learning paths, certifications, and technical documentation to continue their cybersecurity education. And for students pursuing the field of cybersecurity, the Microsoft Cybersecurity Scholarship Program and many more educational opportunities are here to help. The goal of all these programs is to help foster a security-first culture and continuous learning for students and professionals alike.

    “CISA is excited to lead the federal government’s efforts to reduce online risk during this 21st Cybersecurity Awareness month and every month. We work with government and industry to raise cybersecurity awareness and help everyone, from individuals to businesses to all levels of government, stay safe online in our ever-connected world. Protecting ourselves online is about taking a few simple, everyday steps to keep our digital lives safe.”

    —Jen Easterly, Director, CISA

    The cyberthreats we face in the era of AI

    AI-enhanced phishing threats and social engineering are on the rise. These threats are often highly targeted and present fewer of the tell-tale signs of their traditionally generated counterparts. In the FBI’s 2023 Internet Crime Report, the agency states that its Internet Crime Complaint Center fielded more than 800,000 cyber incident complaints. The FBI estimates the total losses associated with these incidents to be greater than USD10 billion.2

    To better understand phishing-related risk factors in the era of AI, Microsoft has collaborated with Fortra to put together the Phishing Benchmark Global Report. The report found that 10.4% of phishing simulation participants clicked the email phishing link they were sent—a 3.4% increase over the previous year.3 Even more worrying, 60% of users who clicked on the email link also ultimately submitted their password to the phishing website.3 These attacks target tens of millions of users annually, and with AI-enhanced features they are more and more likely to evade traditional security layers like firewalls and email security measures. AI can also aid cyberattackers in setting up their phishing sites in locations that internet browsers and security providers are less capable of detecting as high-risk.

    In the era of AI, we are all cyberdefenders. Despite this, 52% of employees still say their job has nothing to do with cybersecurity.3 This couldn’t be further from the truth. Employees are the first and last line of defense—and Microsoft recognized the importance of this when we created the Secure Future Initiative. Our Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella has led the charge himself as Microsoft puts “security above all else, before all other features and investments.” This is why educating everyone on staying cybersafe is so important right now. Whether you point your employees to some of the resources linked in this article, highlight your own in-house resources, or bring in outside experts, it’s time to act now.

    We all have a role to play as cyberdefenders both at work and home. Identity and device protection can help protect individuals and their families from malicious cyberthreats—and Microsoft is making it easier than ever to stay safer on unsecure Wi-Fi with the expansion of privacy protection. Consumers can get the added protection of a VPN on their phones and computers when on-the-go in places like coffee shops or airports. And now, device notifications alert users to unsafe Wi-Fi connections guiding them to turn on VPN for a safer connection.

    For informed individuals looking to further broaden their understanding of the landscape, Microsoft invites you to join the Build a Security-First Culture in the Era of AI webinar on October 30, 2024. Let’s all do our part to secure our world—together.

    Get the Be Cybersmart Kit

    To learn more about Microsoft Security solutions, visit our website. Bookmark the Security blog to keep up with our expert coverage on security matters. Also, follow us on LinkedIn (Microsoft Security) and X (@MSFTSecurity) for the latest news and updates on cybersecurity.

    1Bold action against fraud: Disrupting Storm-1152, Microsoft. August 7, 2024.

    2Cybersecurity Workforce Study, ISC2.

    3Phishing Benchmark Global Report, Fortra.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper and President Biden Survey Damage from Hurricane Helene During Aerial Tour, Hold Briefing for Federal Officials at State Emergency Operations Center

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper and President Biden Survey Damage from Hurricane Helene During Aerial Tour, Hold Briefing for Federal Officials at State Emergency Operations Center

    PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Governor Cooper and President Biden Survey Damage from Hurricane Helene During Aerial Tour, Hold Briefing for Federal Officials at State Emergency Operations Center
    mseets

    Today, Governor Roy Cooper and President Joe Biden took an aerial tour of areas damaged by Hurricane Helene before holding a briefing on storm impacts at the State Emergency Operations Center. During the briefing, President Biden announced the approval of 100% FEMA Reimbursement for six months, a significant funding commitment from the federal government. The briefing was attended by President Biden, United States Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, United States EPA Administrator Michael Regan, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and other top state and federal officials.

    Prior to the visit, President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for active-duty military personnel and equipment to support ongoing operations in Western North Carolina. The active-duty military personnel are in addition to more than 1,000 North Carolina National Guard soldiers currently deployed who are surging food, water, supplies and conducting search and rescue operations. The NC National Guard has already performed more than 1,400 rescues and delivered more than 700,000 pounds in supplies.

    “The damage caused by Hurricane Helene to Western North Carolina is immense, and we are continuing our unprecedented efforts to surge resources into affected communities,” said Governor Cooper. “We’re grateful to President Biden, FEMA and all of our federal partners for their support and commitment to helping our state respond, recover and rebuild from this disaster.”

    State, federal and local partners continue to work together to surge resources into Western North Carolina in response to unprecedented damage from Hurricane Helene across the region. Throughout the week, Governor Roy Cooper has traveled to Western North Carolina to assess storm response, meet with those affected and thank volunteers for their hard work.

    Photos of the Governor’s briefing with President Biden can be found here.

    Food, Water and Commodity Points of Distribution

    Efforts are underway to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, utilizing both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard. FEMA has delivered 1.89 million meals and 2.5 million liters of water. More than 21,000 people have been registered for assistance.

    • Buncombe County – Biltmore Baptist Church, 35 Clayton Road, Arden, NC 28704
    • McDowell County – Grace Community Church, 5182 Highway 70 West, Marion, NC 28752
    • Watauga County – First Baptist Church, 375 West King Street, Boone, NC 28607

    Points of distribution for commodities have been established in each impacted county. These locations are also providing free public Wi-Fi for area residents. Seek information from local governments for counties not listed below.

    • Ashe County – Westwood Elementary School, Mountain View Elementary School
    • Buncombe County – UNC-Asheville, Asheville Buncombe Tech Ferguson, WNC Ag. Center, Asheville-Buncombe Tech Conference Center, Biltmore Baptist Church, The Greens at Weaverville, Fletcher Nursing and Rehabilitation.
    • Henderson County – First Baptist Church Hendersonville, Greens at Hendersonville
    • Madison County – Madison County Cooperative Extension Service
    • McDowell County – Nebo Crossing Church, Grace Community Church
    • Mitchell County – First Baptist Spruce Pine
    • Polk County – Polk County High School
    • Rowan County – Rowan-Cabarrus YMCA
    • Watauga – Cove Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Zionville VFD, Foscoe Christian Church, Watauga EOC, Holmes Convocation Center, Meat Camp Road, Town of Boone PD, First Baptist Boone. 

    Power Outages

    Across the region, approximately 408,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of more than one million. Power has been restored to more than 500,000 customers.

    Missing Persons

    To report a missing person or request non-emergency support, please call NC 211 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state.

    Shelters

    A total of 26 shelters have been opened in Western North Carolina, housing 1,244 people. Plans are in place to open additional shelters as needed to accommodate additional needs.

    Search and Rescue Operations

    Search and rescue operations are ongoing in Western North Carolina. A total of 55 search and rescue teams from North Carolina and beyond, consisting of more than 1600 personnel have conducted search and rescue operations during this event. More than 500 people have been rescued by the NC National Guard. More than 150 pets have also been rescued.

    Road Closures

    Travel remains dangerous, with approximately 450 roads closed as of Wednesday afternoon. NCDOT is asking people to refrain from unnecessary travel to or in Western North Carolina. Road access is limited to local and hurricane response traffic as crews work to restore critical routes and access to communities isolated by damage. First responders also want to keep the roads as clear as possible to help ensure they may carry out all response missions. NCDOT has posted at ncdot.gov an interstate detour map for travelers to avoid western N.C. NCDOT has dispatched the following resources to assist with the recovery process:

    • 1,600 employees, plus 68 contract crews
    • 220+ employees in less-impacted areas have been sent to western N.C.
    • 1,500+ trucks, graders & backhoes/loaders
    • 1,000+ chainsaws
    • 8,000+ barricades & signs

    Cellphone Provider Coverage

    Cellphone providers are working to fix the damage and coverage issues caused by the storm and get stopgap solutions, such as temporary cell phone towers, in place and rapid progress is being made. Restoring communications is critical to saving lives, finding where people are and getting in supplies, and Governor Cooper been in constant contact with cellphone companies urging action and offering support. Please turn your cell phone off and restart it periodically to allow it to reconnect when a network is reestablished.

    Fatalities

    Fifty-six storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We do expect that these numbers will continue to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If you have an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911. To report that you have been unable to reach a person in Western North Carolina, please call 211.

    North Carolina National Guard Deployed

    Gov. Cooper has activated more than 1000 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen to both conduct search and rescue operations and deliver critical supplies to Western North Carolina. As of Wednesday, 300 specialized vehicles and aircraft have been deployed in Western North Carolina to facilitate these missions.

    Volunteers and Donations

    As of Wednesday morning, the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund has raised $2.3 million dollars to help those in Western North Carolina.

    Due to dangerous road conditions, and the need to maintain open routes for emergency operations, travel to Western North Carolina is strongly discouraged. Instead, consider the following options for donations and volunteer opportunities:

    Storm Damage Cleanup

    If your home has damages and you need assistance with clean up, please call Crisis Cleanup for access to volunteer organizations that can assist you at 844-965-1386.

    Major Disaster Declaration and FEMA Assistance

    President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for an expedited request declaring a Major Disaster for 25 North Carolina counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. This declaration paves the way for Public Assistance to help our hard-hit local governments, as well as access to FEMA’s Individual Assistance program.

    FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Homeowners and renters in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can apply.

    North Carolinians may apply for Individual Assistance by calling 1-800-621-3362 from 7am to 11pm daily or by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov, or by downloading the FEMA app.

    Additional Assistance

    There is no right or wrong way to feel in response to the trauma of a hurricane. If you have been impacted by the storm and need someone to talk to, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. Help is also available to anyone, anytime in English or Spanish through a call, text or chat to 988. Learn more at 988Lifeline.org.

    If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599.

    If you would like general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.

    If you are seeking information on resources for recovery help for a resident impacted from the storm, please email IArecovery@ncdps.gov.

    Written Pool Report of Briefing Provided by Adam Wagner, Raleigh News & Observer

    Air Force One landed at Raleigh-Durham International Airport around 4:21 pm.

    President Joe Biden and Gov. Roy Cooper disembarked about 10 minutes later.

    They were joined by U.S. Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, EPA Administrator Michael Regan and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell.

    They were met on the tarmac by a reception line that included Congresswoman Deborah Ross, NC Attorney General Josh Stein, NC State Auditor Jessica Holmes, Morrisville Mayor TJ Crawley, Raleigh Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan Melton, Durham Mayor Leo Williams and Wake County Commission Chairwoman Shnica Thomas.

    Everyone drove to the N.C. Emergency Operations Center, where a briefing was assembled in the situation room. Biden sat with Cooper on his right and Mayorkas to Cooper’s right. N.C. Emergency Management Director Will Ray on Biden’s left and Regan to the left of Ray. Behind them, screens showed several maps of North Carolina. In front of them were gathered numerous members of North Carolina’s emergency management team, including several members of the National Guard.

    Cooper discussed the damage, saying Hurricane Helene had wiped towns “off the map, bridges damaged or completely destroyed, critical infrastructure and water systems, electrical grids, communications all remain seriously damaged. Countless homes and businesses that are lost.

    He continued, “An entire region of our state is still in a dangerous situation.”

    Cooper then said 92 search and rescue teams have saved “countless” lives before thanking the 18 states that have sent assistance to North Carolina. Cooper also said North Carolina is “grateful” for Biden and FEMA’s aid.

    “This is going to be a long and difficult recovery, but talking with person after person in Western North Carolina, I know that we can come back and that we will come back because the people of Western North Carolina are resilient,” Cooper said.

    Cooper then called on “my friend” before turning it over to Biden.

    Biden also thanked Cooper, a Democrat; South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, a Republican; and “all the elected officials who have focused on the task at a hand. In a moment like this, we put politics aside. Or at least we should put it all aside, and we have here. There are no Democrats or Republicans, only Americans. And our job is to hep as many people as we can as quickly as we can and as thoroughly as we can.”

    Wednesday, Biden said, he’d approved a request from Cooper for the federal government to cover all of the costs of debris removal for the next six months. Cooper then led a round of applause.

    Biden said there are 70 dead North Carolinians and a hundred more who are still missing. From the air, Biden said, he could see damaged homes that had clearly been washed downstream. Chimney Rock, he said, was “reduced to piles of wood and debris. As you look down, that’s what you see as we flew over in a circle in the helicopter.”

    Biden also discussed his order that the Department of Defense move up to 1,000 soldiers from Fort Liberty up tp participate in the disaster response. Biden also said 50 StarLink satellites have been deployed, with more on the way. And FEMA is making hotel rooms and temporary housing available to victims of the storm.

    Biden then said that in the car from the airport to the Emergency Operations Center, he’d been discussing how the storm is showing how neighbors can help each other in the wake of disaster.

    “Volunteers, first responders are standing side by side. People lean on each other to pick up the pieces that are left over and that’s the best of America. I firmly believe and I’ve been saying it and saying it and saying it for three years, there’s nothing beyond our capacity to do — nothing, nothing, nothing. This is the United States of America for God’s sake. Whenever we’ve worked together, we’ve never failed to get something done,” Biden said before thanking first responders.

    Ray then welcomed Biden before giving an operational update on Helene’s impacts.

    Ray said “extreme and unrelenting” rain caused the damage to Western North Carolina. There are about 350,000 remaining power outages in Western North Carolina, Ray said. The storm caused flash flood emergencies in 21 different Western North Carolina. Ray said North Carolina is focused on life safety missions, increasing the speed of commodity distribution in Western NC and helping with infrastructure like healthcare, water, power and communications.

    There are 26 open shelters in counties with just over 1,200 occupants.

    There are North Carolina search and rescue teams operating, along with 13 from other states and 18 from the federal government, Ray said. There have been more than 5,000 search and rescue “interactions” which can include rescues, evacuations or shelter assessments.

    “The teams continue to do really incredible work in some pretty austere conditions,” Ray said.

    North Carolina has 26 aircraft in the area that have lifted over 700,000 ponds of cargo into the region.

    Ray also said that more than 33,000 North Carolinians have applied for FEMA Individual Assistance programs.

    The open press section of the meeting lasted about 17 minutes.

    The full briefing ended around 5:50 pm.

    ###

    Oct 2, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso Statement on Elk Fire Impacting Sheridan County

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso

    CASPER, WY – Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) released the following statement offering support for those impacted by the Elk Fire in Sheridan County.

    “My prayers are with all those affected by the unprecedented Elk Fire in northern Wyoming. It’s vital that residents of Sheridan County and the surrounding areas follow the local evacuation guidelines. I encourage everyone to monitor the Sheridan County website (http://sheridancountywy.gov) for emergency updates and information on helpful resources.

    “My office is working with the state to do everything we can to assist those on the ground in relief efforts. Thank you to all our brave firefighters in Wyoming who risk their lives to keep us safe and protect our homes and communities.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Lessons from Cyclone Gabrielle: 5 key health priorities for future disaster response

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Holly Thorpe, Professor in Sociology of Sport and Gender, University of Waikato

    Getty Images

    “The climate crisis is a health crisis.” So says World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus.

    The World Economic Forum agrees. Its report this year highlighted how climate change is taking a toll on global health due to increasingly frequent extreme weather events.

    These issues are on the official agenda here too, especially since severe tropical cyclone Gabrielle caused extensive damage in the South-west Pacific and northern New Zealand in early 2023.

    Between February 13 and 14 it slammed into Te Tairāwhiti/East Coast and Te Matau a Māui/Hawkes Bay, with disastrous results for the land and its inhabitants. Communities were displaced, homes destroyed, power and telecommunications cut, water systems compromised, and many roads and bridges badly damaged.

    Shortly after Gabrielle hit, Manatū Hauora/Ministry of Health commissioned us to investigate the impacts of adverse weather events on health systems and community health and wellbeing.

    Our community research teams interviewed 143 residents in the two affected regions. They included first responders, heath workers, council staff and members of the public. Their stories were emotional, powerful and insightful.

    Our recently published report amplifies these community voices and local knowledge, and offers recommendations about planning for future, inevitable events. Here we offer five key messages.

    1. Prioritise vulnerable people

    Many older people and those with disabilities or existing health conditions were deprioritised or simply forgotten during evacuations and in the days and weeks after the cyclone. As one community responder in Tairāwhiti recalled:

    Some of them couldn’t move out because they were so old and frail. The water was so powerful, they couldn’t move anywhere. Some just stayed in their room until somebody turned up. For instance, there was a lady [who] was stuck in her wheelchair, and by the time people found her, the water was at her neck.

    Our report identified the need for health and social services to work more closely to ensure at-risk, vulnerable older people and those with disabilities or complex needs are prioritised during evacuations, so their medical and physical needs are met during and after an extreme weather event.

    2. Invest in mental health support and trauma recovery

    Those in the most affected communities had high levels of stress, grief and trauma during and after emergencies and evacuations.

    Staff and volunteers in front-line roles during the state of emergency experienced similar mental health effects. Many felt mental health support was not there when they needed it most.

    Almost everyone we spoke to had some negative mental health impacts. These included sleep disruption, rain anxiety and stress from road closures, insurance claims and land instability.

    Māori participants also told of their grief over environmental damage and destruction, highlighting the links between whenua (land) and hauora (health). They described drawing on cultural practices to support whānau recovery. For example, a leader of local volunteer efforts spoke about the personal impact of the cyclone:

    I was not good […] it was seeing the impact on how it was for your own community whānau. I think it hit me quite a bit later on. I fell into depression […] It just built up over time. I’m still in healing therapy for the last probably six to seven months since Gabrielle, just trying to get my wairua [spirit] and my tinana [body] and everything back in place.

    Overall, the research shows a need for greater awareness and investment in weather-related trauma recovery and mental health support.

    3. Ensure medical supplies can reach remote areas

    Rural and isolated communities had heightened health challenges, particularly due to road and communication failures.

    Transporting medical staff into these communities often required creative solutions (driving, using helicopters or hiking through bush and across farmland when roads were damaged, for example).

    Access to medicines was a major concern. It took co-ordinated effort to get pharmaceuticals to such communities. Helicopters were crucial in getting supplies and patients in and out of remote areas. Not everyone who needed attention received it, however.

    The most effective responses involved organisations (such as the NZ Police and Civil Defence) working together with communities. As one police officer told us:

    Our whānau up the coast needed medicine, prescriptions. Getting access from the helicopter to the home was a challenge. So, the police leant in and helped out. We used [an all-terrain vehicle] to get to places and spaces to get medicine in.

    People need to be prepared for power and telcommunications failures.
    Getty Images

    4. Resource and co-ordinate local support networks

    Fiscally challenged health systems were stretched during the emergency and struggled with power and telecommunications outages. But we heard of many health workers going “above and beyond” to care for patients and communities.

    Many continued working even when their own families, homes and communities were directly under threat. Anticipating this and supporting these workers will be important as adverse weather becomes more frequent with climate change.

    We also found marae, schools, local social services and non-profit organisations played key roles after the cyclone, but were often outside the direct ambit of the health system.

    Often the people working in these organisations have strong community relationships and knowledge that is essential to supporting emergency and recovery processes. These connections should be mapped and integrated for future events.

    5. Shift resources and build common will

    Local communities are full of knowledge. Many have learnt from recent events to better prepare their families, workplaces and organisations.

    Whānau told us about the importance of having cash in case of power outages and telecommunications failure. Others identified battery-powered radio as a critical source of information when systems were down. Pharmacists and doctors told of the importance of hard-copy evidence of prescriptions, to be able to dispense when electronic systems are out.

    Checking in on neighbours, sharing resources and making time for a cup of tea were all important for people in the recovery and rebuilding phases. A key lesson is to harness the power of community connections, trust and relationships in climate change resilience and recovery.

    Although knowledge, experience and wisdom lie in the hands of communities, our research highlights how financial resources mostly sit with central government. The challenge is to shift resources and build common will for climate action, before the inevitable next event.

    The report is receiving attention in parliament. We hope local experience can be central to planning around the health impacts of climate change and decision-making at all levels.

    We acknowledge the important contributions of our wider research team and community partners, particularly Manu Caddie (Te Weu Charitable Trust), Josie McClutchie (project lead), Dayna Chaffey, Haley Maxwell and Hiria Philip-Barbara (community researchers) in Tairāwhiti, and Emma Horgan and John Bell (Sustainable HB Centre for Climate & Resilience) in Hawkes Bay.

    Holly Thorpe received support from the Manatū Hauora/Ministry of Health funding secured to conduct this research.

    Fiona Langridge received support from the Ministry of Health funding secured to conduct this research.

    George Laking received funding from The Ministry of Health to conduct the research. He is an Executive Board member of OraTaiao, the New Zealand Climate and Health Council.

    Judith McCool receives funding from the Ministry of Health (Polynesia Health Corridors) and the Health Research Council.

    – ref. Lessons from Cyclone Gabrielle: 5 key health priorities for future disaster response – https://theconversation.com/lessons-from-cyclone-gabrielle-5-key-health-priorities-for-future-disaster-response-239392

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Digital roadmap drives innovation and delivers for communities

    Source: New South Wales Government 2

    Headline: Digital roadmap drives innovation and delivers for communities

    Published: 3 October 2024

    Released by: Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government

    Greater accessibility, upskilling communities and building resilience for the future are at the heart of the Minns Labor Government’s new digital roadmap for New South Wales.

    The NSW Digital Strategy launched today sets out how the state will deliver innovative, inclusive and secure digital services to improve the lives of residents. For the first time, the new strategy includes a way to track progress on digital as a state.

    The NSW Digital Strategy is built around five key missions:

    • Accessibility: Make digital services accessible, inclusive and connected for all people in NSW
    • Productivity: Use digital to advance service delivery, support the local economy and drive productivity
    • Trust: Build trust through reliable, stable government services and sustainable digital infrastructure
    • Resilience: Keep NSW safe and resilient for emergencies online and in-person
    • Digital Skills: Uplift digital capability in our public sector workforce​.

    This provides a roadmap for how NSW will harness digital transformation to support economic growth, improve service delivery and create more connected communities.

    NSW is home to 32 per cent of Australia’s population and is one of the most diverse states in the world, with the Government committed to making digital services inclusive by supporting all NSW communities on their digital journey.

    People responding to a NSW Government survey to understand the challenges faced when engaging with digital technologies and services found 1 in 5 people (22 per cent) feel they lack the necessary skills to perform important online tasks such as job searching, working, studying or accessing government services.

    The feedback also found those aged 65+, from low-income households or whose highest education level is high school are less likely to feel confident in performing these tasks.

    The strategy leverages leading technology and builds on large-scale projects already underway, including ongoing work to deliver a secure and privacy-preserving NSW digital identity and verifiable credentials system for use across the public and private sectors.

    Key initiatives under the strategy include:

    • Delivery of the NSW Digital ID and NSW Digital Wallet to enable a safer, more inclusive digital economy by streamlining services and providing a secure way to prove who you are.
    • The state’s first Digital Inclusion Strategy, informed by community input which shows that key barriers to inclusion include not just location, physical challenges and economic factors, but also confidence in digital skills and trust in digitalisation.
    • Better coordination of information and communications technology spending across government to reduce duplication and an enhanced approach to cyber security coordination, governance and investment.
    • Supporting housing delivery by improving the NSW Planning Portal and developing the Digital Housing Pipeline, an initiative that offers access to information on the delivery of new homes, facilitating improved collaboration among developers, government agencies and homeowners to streamline the process from planning to occupancy.
    • Delivering secure and resilient critical communications for emergency services and supporting communities during disasters by building on projects like the Hazards Near Me app which includes fire, storm, tsunami and flood information.
    • Updating strategies to leverage data and use artificial intelligence to enhance the response to natural disasters and emergencies through tools like RFS Athena which predicts fire behaviour.

    The NSW Digital Strategy puts people at its heart by targeting practical benefits, powered by community insights and formulated through extensive collaboration with industry and academic partners. For more information, read the strategy at http://www.digital.nsw.gov.au/strategy

    Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

    “The NSW Digital Strategy lays the foundation for a future for digital services that are more secure, inclusive and accessible, and is a commitment to improving people’s daily lives.”

    “This strategy is about more than just technology— it’s about people and how we build world-class digital services that strengthen our communities while supporting economic growth.”

    “Our key missions of accessibility, productivity, trust, resilience and skills will help ensure we deliver with purpose on the things people need, like increasing access to government services.”

    “We are already bringing our strategy to life, through initiatives like our new EasyRead hub and updated AI frameworks, by ensuring digital infrastructure is front of mind for government projects, and by improving cyber security coordination and investment.”

    “From Western Sydney to regional and remote NSW, our vision is for a more connected state and a government that embraces new technologies and brings everyone on the journey.”

    “The NSW Digital Strategy will help ensure we continue to innovate and build digital services that are both forward-thinking and responsive to the needs of the community we serve.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: South Pacific defence meeting fosters collaboration

    Source: New Zealand Government

    This week’s South Pacific Defence Ministers’ Meeting (SPDMM) has concluded with a renewed commitment to regional security of all types, Defence Minister Judith Collins says.

    Defence Ministers and senior civilian and military officials from Australia, Chile, Fiji, France, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Tonga gathered in Auckland to discuss defence and security cooperation in the South Pacific. 

    “We all want to see regional security, and that means protecting our maritime areas, improving the effectiveness of our Defence Forces and adapting to the impacts of climate change,” Ms Collins says.

    “The South Pacific is our home. We all benefit from working together and sharing knowledge to support a secure, stable and prosperous region.

    “This year’s meeting further fostered the spirit of collaboration among trusted partners.

    “Members shared their views on security challenges, as well as the role of emerging technology, in responding to these challenges, and collective approaches to improving the effectiveness of the region’s Defence Forces.”

    “Members agreed on the importance of working with civilian agencies when it comes to supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts, and in the areas of combating maritime security threats such as illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing and transnational organised crime. 

    “These are issues that have significant impact on many South Pacific nations which, like New Zealand, have large Exclusive Economics Zones.”

    SPDMM member countries discussed approaches to non-traditional security challenges, where South Pacific militaries have come together in response to regional security challenges, and co-deploying to help communities recover from cyclones, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, bushfire and floods. 

    “SPDMM is a unique dialogue and coordination platform that enables collective action and leadership among South Pacific Nations. In a region this size it is vital we work together on our shared challenges with our shared values,” Ms Collins says.

    “It has been an absolute honour to host SPDMM 2024 in Auckland and I wish Chile all the best for SPDMM 2025.”

    A full summary of key outcomes from the 2024 South Pacific Defence Ministers meeting can be found in the Joint Communique. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Don’t let the bad weather catch you out

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Southern District Police are urging drivers to take care and obey road closure signs after heavy rain flooded roads and snow trapped cars.

    High alpine passes in the Central Otago Lakes have experienced heavy snowfall today. This morning, Police worked with NZTA Waka Kotahi to help a number of vehicles that were trapped on the Lindis Pass (State Highway 8) by heavy snow that closed the road. It has since reopened and caution is advised.

    Motorists should check NZTA’s Journey Planner at https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/.

    “We’re urging people not to put themselves at risk,” Senior Sergeant Blair Dalton says. “Police have noticed multiple vehicles drive around road closure signs and attempting to continue their journey.

    “It’s not worth the risk, so for the safety of yourself, your passengers, other motorists and emergency services, please follow and adhere to the road signage in place.”

    A number of roads in the Dunedin area have been affected by surface flooding, and it is expected that the biggest impact along coastal areas will arrive with the high tides this evening.

    Dunedin Council and Otago Regional Council are monitoring the impacts closely and are working alongside emergency services.

    “Motorists are to be advised to stay off flooded roads and not to attempt to enter any flooded sections or cross fords.”

    To ensure a safe journey, keep your following distances, reduce your speed, use your headlights, and watch your visibility.

    For more information on roads, go to NZTA Journey Planner, Dunedin City Council, Otago Regional Council, and Environment Southland websites.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNISFA Peacekeepers assist Flood-Affected Communities in Abyei

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    In the wake of heavy rainfall that has resulted in flooding in Abyei, and left communities in urgent need of assistance, UNISFA peacekeepers are stepping up to provided much needed support. The relentless heavy rains in the southern and northern parts of Abyei have displaced many people, forcing some to move to higher ground as communities struggle for basic supplies.

    Mrs. Aluel Maroab Chan, a mother of four from Manyiel Rou, says: “We were forced to leave our home and build a temporary shelter in an area without any amenities. My children are suffering from infections due to the humidity. I urge the government to assist those affected.”

    To mitigate the impact of the floods, the Vietnamese Engineers have constructed four channels in Abyei town. This is facilitating the flow of water and assisting people who are trapped by the flood waters to move to safety.  This initiative has also helped many people who were forced to relocate to move back to their homes.

    In Malual and Athony, the Vietnamese Engineers are assisting to facilitate movement by rehabilitating roads, making it easier for people to access areas that had been made impassable by flooding and enabling assistance to reach affected communities.  The Abyei Physical Infrastructure Ministry has acknowledged these timely construction efforts as essential as rains continue to impact the area.

    On September 9, Ghanaian peacekeepers reached out to communities in Abathok, Mijak County, distributing essential supplies such as mosquito nets, clothing, and sanitary pads to vulnerable families. In addition to delivering goods, the peacekeepers engaged with local women, fostering dialogue to improve their living conditions.

    Meanwhile, on 11 September, Lt. Col. Altaf, Commander of the PakBatt-2 contingent, led his team in a similar effort, visiting flood-hit areas in Dari Market and surrounding regions. Some 150 individuals were provided with food, medical supplies, and other essential items.

    According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), over 735,000 people across South Sudan and Abyei have been affected by the floods, with Abyei facing a critical situation compounded by food insecurity and disease outbreaks. The newly formed Abyei Flood Task Force is coordinating efforts among various agencies to address these challenges.

    As the floods persist, local leaders are calling for more assistance for the affected areas.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Abyei workshop for people with disability champions inclusion

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    10 September – The Abyei Youth Union and the Persons with Disabilities Union (PwDU) held a workshop to address the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Abyei and brainstorm solutions for greater inclusion in all areas of life.

    The secretary general of PwDU, Mr Wol Akonon said, “Disability is not an Inability” a message that resonated strongly with the audience. Another participant observed that “limited access to education, healthcare, and employment exacerbates the challenges faced by persons with disabilities, including stigma, discrimination, and poverty”.

    The Abyei Youth Union President, Mr Deng Aguer, stressed that “inclusion requires active involvement from the community, local administration, and international partners in Abyei,” adding that “education and awareness is crucial to understand that physical, mental, or sensory impairments should not hinder full participation in the community”.

    Participants called for greater investments in empowering individuals with disabilities, including employment quotas for persons with disabilities within the Administration, UNISFA, and UN AFP. Representatives from the Juba-appointed Ministry of Gender and Social Welfare and the Ministry of Youth and Education pledged to advocate for policies and practices that promote accessibility, including free education, medication, and priority access to healthcare services in Abyei, which highlighted the workshop’s significance and impact.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Forestry Centre of Excellence launched in Mount Gambier

    Source: University of South Australia

    03 October 2024

    An artist’s impression of the Forestry Centre of Excellence, due to be built on UniSA’s Mount Gambier campus in 2025.

    The State Government has today released new artist impressions of the Forestry Centre of Excellence (FCoE) being built in Mount Gambier and officially launched today.

    The Centre is a collaborative project between the State Government, the University of South Australia (UniSA) and the forest industry. It will be built on the same site as the UniSA Mount Gambier campus, the new Mount Gambier Technical College and the Mount Gambier TAFE, providing a unique opportunity to create an education, training and research precinct.

    The design for the facility is due to be finalised in November 2024 with building construction due to commence in April 2025 and an expected completion in January 2026.

    Vital research underway in temporary facilities was showcased at a special launch on site today and includes projects on:

    • structural timber market access
    • improving safety
    • fire detection from cameras and satellites
    • suppression, recovery and analysis of digital forestry data using artificial intelligence
    • immersive data analytics using VR and AR to understand the implications of climate change on plantation growth yield and water use.

    Following a global search, Professor Jeff Morrell has been appointed as the Forestry Centre of Excellence’s inaugural director due to commence in mid-January 2025. Previously, he was Director for the Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life based at the University of the Sunshine Coast.

    The FCoE links to the forest industry and its key attribute of collaboration, connection and partnerships through its research, training education, development, and extension activities, has been reflected in the new FCoE brand of interlocking abstract trees also unveiled today.

    In launching the FCoE, SA Premier Peter Malinauskas described the Green Triangle plantation forest region as “one of the powerhouses of the Australian forest industry”.

    “The South Australian portion of the region contributes more than $860 million to the state’s gross product annually – making it one of our most productive primary industry sectors,” Premier Malinauskas said.

    “We are delivering on our election commitment to establish a world-leading Forestry Centre of Excellence to strengthen this already thriving industry.”

    UniSA Chancellor John Hill, who attended the launch, said the University was honoured to host the new Forestry Centre of Excellence, which has evolved from Forest Research Mount Gambier, established in 2018 by the State and Federal Government, UniSA and the forestry industry.

    “The model of recruiting UniSA researchers into the forestry industry has resulted in a more efficient, safer, progressive, and profitable industry, establishing standards for best practice,” Chancellor Hill said.

    “Together with the State Government, we are proud to continue this partnership and help advance research and development projects to ensure the industry’s economic prosperity committing more than $6 million towards the Centre’s operations and building along with significant in-kind support.”

    For further information on the Forestry Centre of Excellence visit: Forestry Centre of Excellence – PIRSA

    …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

    Media contact: Candy Gibson M: +61 434 605 142 E: candy.gibson@unisa.edu.au

    Other articles you may be interested in

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: English rendering of PM’s address in the 114th Episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on 29.09.2024

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 29 SEP 2024 12:09PM by PIB Delhi

    My dear countrymen, Namaskar. Once again we have the opportunity to connect in Mann Ki Baat. This episode today is going to make me emotional. It’s flooding me with a lot of old memories… The reason is that this journey of ours in Mann Ki Baat is completing 10 years. 10 years ago Mann Ki Baat started on the day of Vijayadashami on the 3rd of October. And what a divine coincidence it is that this year on the 3rd of October when 10 years of Mann Ki Baat are completed, it will be the first day of Navratri. There are many phases in this long journey of Mann Ki Baat that I can never forget. Crores of listeners of Mann Ki Baat have been our companions in this journey, whose continuous support I have kept receiving. They provided information from every corner of the country.

    The listeners of Mann Ki Baat are the real anchors of this show. A commonly held belief has become so ingrained that as long as there are no spicy or negative conversations, it does not receive much attention. But Mann Ki Baat has proved that how hungry the people of the country are, for positive information. People like positive stories, inspiring examples, encouraging stories very much. Just as there is a bird called Chakor about which it is said that it drinks only raindrops. In Mann Ki Baat we saw that like the Chakor bird, people too listen with great pride to the achievements of the country, the collective achievements of the people. The 10 year long journey of Mann Ki Baat has created a garland of sorts, in which, every episode encompasses new sagas, new records; new personalities get added. Whatever work is taking place in our society with a sense of collectiveness, it gets recognition through ‘Mann Ki Baat’. My heart also swells with pride when I read the letters that come for ‘Mann Ki Baat’.

    There are so many talented people in our country… How much passion they have, to serve the country and society. They dedicate their entire life to serving people selflessly. Knowing about them fills me up with energy. This whole process of Mann Ki Baat for me is like, going to the temple to have a Darshan of The Almighty. When I remember each and every thing, each and every incident, each and every letter connected with Mann Ki Baat, I feel as if I am having a Darshan of the Janata Janaardan, the people, who are like the Almighty to me.

    Friends, today I will appreciate all people associated with Doordarshan, Prasar Bharati and All India Radio. On account of their tireless efforts, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ has reached this important milestone. I am also thankful to various TV channels, regional TV channels who have consistently broadcast it. Many media houses also ran campaigns on the issues that we raised through Mann Ki Baat. I also thank the Print media for taking it to every home. I would also like to thank those Youtubers who did many programs on Mann Ki Baat. This program can be heard in the country’s 22 languages, besides 12 foreign languages ​​as well. I love it when people say that they, listened to the Mann Ki Baat program in their local language. Many of you might know that, a quiz competition based on the Mann Ki Baat program is also going on, in which any person can take part. By visiting MyGov.in and win prizes too. Today, at this important juncture, I once again seek your blessings – With a pure heart and complete dedication… May I continue singing songs of the greatness of the people of India… May we all continue to celebrate the collective power of the nation in this way… This is my prayer to God, this is my prayer to the people.

    My dear countrymen, for the last few weeks it has been raining heavily in different parts of the country. This rainy season reminds us how important ‘water conservation’ is… how important it is to save water.

    Water saved during rainy days helps a lot during water scarcity months, and that’s the spirit of campaigns like ‘Catch The Rain’. I am happy that many people are taking new initiatives to conserve water. One such effort has been witnessed in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh.

    You know that ‘Jhansi’ is in Bundelkhand, whose identity is linked with water scarcity. Here, in Jhansi, some women have given a new lease of life to the Ghurari river. These women are associated with a Self Help Group and they have led this campaign by becoming ‘Jal Saheli’. No one would have ever imagined the way these women have saved the dying Ghurari river. These Jal Saheli created a check dam by filling sand in sacks, stopped the rain water from getting wasted and filled the river to the brim with water. These women have enthusiastically contributed to the construction of hundreds of reservoirs and their revival. This has not only solved the water problem of the people of this area; Happiness too has returned to their faces.

    Friends, at some places woman power enhances water power whereas at other places water power also strengthens woman power. I have come to know about two very inspiring efforts from Madhya Pradesh. Here in Raipura Village of Dindori, construction of a large pond has raised the groundwater level considerably. The women of this village benefited from this. Here the women associated with ‘Sharada Aajeevika Self Help Group’ have also entered into a new occupation of fish farming. These women have also started a Fish Parlour where their income is also enhancing through the sale of the fish. The efforts of women in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh are also commendable. When the big pond of Khomp village started drying up, the women took the initiative to rejuvenate it. The women of ‘Hari Bagiya Self Help Group’ removed a large amount of silt from the pond… they used the silt removed from the pond on barren land to set up a fruit forest.

    Due to the hard work of these women, not only has the pond been filled with water, but the crop yield has also increased substantially. Such efforts of water conservation being done in every nook & corner of the country will prove very helpful in dealing with the water crisis. I fully trust that you too will definitely join such efforts happening around you.

    My dear countrymen, there is a border village ‘Jhala’ in Uttarkashi of Uttarakhand. The youth here have started a special initiative to keep their village clean. They are running a campaign, ‘Dhanyvaad Prakriti’ or ‘Thank you nature’ in their village. As part of this, the village is cleaned for two hours every day. The garbage scattered in the streets of the village is collected and dumped at a designated place outside the village. Due to this, Jhala village is also turning clean and people are becoming aware as well. Just imagine, if every village, every street, every locality in your area starts a similar ‘Thank You’ campaign, how much change can come about!

    Friends, a cleanliness drive is being promoted aggressively on the beach of Puducherry too. Here, a woman named Ramya ji is leading a team of youth from Mahe Municipality & its surrounding area. The people of this team, through their efforts, are cleaning the Mahe Area, especially the beaches in the vicinity.

    Friends, I have discussed only two efforts here. But if we look around, we will find that in every part of the country, some unique effort or the other is definitely going on, associated with ‘cleanliness’. Just a few days later, on the 2nd of October, the Swachh Bharat Mission is completing 10 years. This is an occassion to commend those who turned it into such a big mass movement in Indian history. It is also a befitting tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, who dedicated his entire life to this cause.

    Friends, today it is the success of the ‘Swachh Bharat Mission’ that the Waste to Wealth’ mantra is becoming popular among people. People have started talking about Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, citing their examples as well. Like I just came to know about a great effort in Kozhikode, Kerala. Here, Seventy four (74) years old Subramanian ji has repaired more than 23 thousand chairs and thus made them re-usable again. People also call him ‘Reduce, Reuse and Recycle’, that is, RRR, (Triple R) Champion. His unique efforts can also be seen at the offices of Kozhikode Civil Station, PWD & LIC.

    Friends, we have to connect as many people as possible with the ongoing campaign for cleanliness. And this is not a campaign for one day or one year; it is a task to be undertaken continuously for ages. This is work to be done until ‘cleanliness’ becomes our nature. I request all of you to take part in the cleanliness campaign along with your family, friends, neighbors or colleagues. I once again congratulate all of you on the success of the ‘Swachh Bharat Mission’.

    My dear countrymen, we are all very proud of our heritage. And I always say ‘Development as well as Heritage’. That is why I am getting a lot of messages about a particular aspect of my recent visit to the US. Once again, there is a lot of discussion about the return of our ancient artefacts. I can understand your feelings about this and I would also like to tell the listeners of Mann Ki Baat about it.

    Friends, during my visit to the US, the US government has returned around… 300 Ancient Artefacts to India. US President Biden, very affectionately, showed me some of these artefacts in his private residence at Delaware. Returned Artefacts are made of materials such as Terracotta, Stone, ivory, wood, copper and bronze. Many of these are four thousand years old. The US has returned artefacts dating back to 4000 years… those from the 19th century as well.

    These include vases, terracotta plaques of gods and goddesses, statues of Jain Tirthankaras, as well as statues of Bhagwan Buddha and Bhagwan Shri Krishna are among the returned artefacts. Several animal statuettes are also among the returned items. From Jammu and Kashmir, terracotta tiles bearing male and female figures are very interesting. These include bronze idols of Bhagwan Ganesha from Southern India as well. A large number of images of Bhagwan Vishnu are also among the returned artefacts. These are mainly from Northern and Southern India. Looking at these artefacts, one realises how much attention our ancestors paid to intricate detailing. They had a great understanding of art. Many of these artefacts were taken out of the country through smuggling and other illegal means – this is a serious crime… in a way it is like destroying our heritage, but I am very happy that in the last decade, many such artefacts and many elements of our ancient heritage have been brought back home. Today, India is also working with many countries as well in this direction. I believe that when we are proud of our heritage, the world also respects it, and as a result of that, today many countries of the world are returning to us such artefacts that were taken away from here.

    My dear friends, if I ask you which language a child learns most easily and quickly – your answer will be ‘mother tongue’. In our country almost twenty thousand languages ​​and dialects are there and each one of them is surely a  mother tongue of someone or the other. There are some languages ​​which are used by very few people, but you will be happy to know that today, unique efforts are being made to preserve those languages. One such language is our ‘Santhali’ language. A campaign has been started to give a new identity to Santhali with the help of digital innovation. ‘Santhali’ is spoken by the people of the Santhal tribal community residing in many states of our country.

    Apart from India, tribal communities speaking Santhali are also present in Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan. Shriman Ramjeet Tudu, resident of Mayurbhanj, Odisha is running a campaign to create an online identity of the Santhali language. Ramjeet ji has prepared a digital platform where literature related to the Santhali language can be read and written in Santhali language. Actually, a few years ago when Ramjit ji started using the mobile phone, he was saddened by the fact that he could not send messages in his mother tongue. After that, he started exploring the possibilities of typing ‘Ol Chiki’, script of the Santhali language. With the help of some of his friends, he developed the technique of typing in ‘Ol Chiki’. Today, due to his efforts, articles written in Santhali language are reaching millions of people.

    Friends, when there’s a confluence of our strong resolve and collective participation, it leads to amazing results for the entire society. Its most recent example is ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ – this was an amazing campaign; such an example of public participation is truly inspiring. People in every nook & corner of the country have done wonders in this campaign which was started for conservation of the environment. Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Telangana have created a new record by planting more saplings than the set target. Under this campaign, more than 26 crore saplings have been planted in Uttar Pradesh. The people of Gujarat planted more than 15 crore saplings. More than 6 crore saplings were planted in Rajasthan in the month of August alone. Thousands of schools in the country are also participating in this campaign with great enthusiasm.

    Friends, many examples related to tree planting campaigns keep coming to the fore in our country. One such example is that of K.N. Rajasekhar ji of Telangana. His commitment to planting trees amazes us all. About four years ago, he started a tree planting campaign. He decided that he would certainly plant a tree every day.

    He followed this campaign like a strict vow. He has planted more than 1500 saplings. The most remarkable point is that even after becoming a victim of a mishap this year, he did not waver from his resolve. I heartily appreciate all such efforts. I also request you to join this sacred campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’.

    My dear friends, you must have seen… there are some people around us who do not lose patience in any adversity, rather they learn from it. Subhashri, one such lady, with her efforts, has created a wonderful garden of rare and very useful herbs. She is a resident of Madurai in Tamil Nadu. Though she is a teacher by profession, she also has great affinity towards medicinal herbs. This affection of hers started in the eighties when her father was bitten by a poisonous snake. At that time, traditional herbs helped her father recover to quite an extent. After this incident, she started exploring traditional medicines and herbs. Today, she has a unique herbal garden in Verichiyur village of Madurai, in which there are more than 500 rare medicinal plants. She has worked very hard to prepare this garden… In search of every plant, she travelled far and wide, gathered information and many a time asked for help from other people. During Covid, she made available to the people immunity boosting herbs. Today people come from far and wide to see her herbal garden. She imparts information about herbal plants and their uses to everyone. Subashree is carrying forward our traditional heritage, which has been a part of our culture for hundreds of years. Her herbal garden connects our past to the future. Our best wishes to her.

              Friends, in these changing times, the nature of jobs is changing and new sectors are emerging… Such as gaming, animation, reel making, film making or poster making. If you can perform well in any of these skills… your talent can get a very big platform… if you are a part of a band or working for a community radio, then also there is a huge opportunity for you.

    In order to promote your talent and creativity, The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India has started 25 challenges under the theme, ‘Create in India’. You will surely find these challenges interesting. Some challenges even focus on music, education and even on anti-piracy. There are many professional organisations associated with this objective and are providing full support to these challenges. In order to participate, you can log in to wavesindia.org. I specially urge the creators in the country to ensure participation and bring their creativity to the fore.

              My dear countrymen, this month marks the culmination of 10 years of another important campaign. The success of this campaign includes the contribution of the country’s big industries as well as small shopkeepers. I am talking about ‘Make in India’. Today, it gives me immense joy to see that the poor, the middle class and MSMEs are getting a lot of benefit from this campaign. This campaign has provided an opportunity to people of every class to showcase their talent. Today, India has become a manufacturing powerhouse and it is because of the youth power of the country that the whole world is looking up to us. Be it automobiles, textiles, aviation, electronics or defence… every sector in the country’s exports are constantly on the rise. The continual rise of FDI in the country is narrating the success saga of Make In India. Now we are mainly focussing on two things… The first is ‘Quality’, that is, goods made in our country should be of global standards… and the other is ‘Vocal for Local. That means, local products should get maximum promotion. In ‘Mann Ki Baat’ we’ve also discussed #MyProductMyPride’. How the people of the country can benefit from promoting local products can be understood through an example.

    In Bhandara district of Maharashtra, there is an old textile tradition of, ‘Bhandara Tussar Silk Handloom’. Tussar Silk, is known for its colour, design and strength. In some areas of Bhandara, more than 50 ‘Self Help Groups are working to preserve it. Women have a huge participation in that. This silk is fast becoming popular and empowering local communities… and that is the spirit of ‘Make in India’.

              Friends, in this festive season you can once again reiterate your old resolves. Anything you buy, should necessarily be ‘Made in India’… Anything you gift that too should be Made In India. Merely buying earthen lamps is not ‘Vocal for Local’. You should promote local products made in your area more and more. Any such product, that has been made with the sweat of an Indian artisan, that is made on Indian soil, is our pride – we always have to lend glory to this pride.

              Friends, in this episode of ‘Mann ki Baat’ I really enjoyed connecting with you. Please send us your thoughts and suggestions related to this program. I am waiting for your letters and messages. Just a few days later, the festival season is about to begin. It will begin with Navratri and then for the next two months, this atmosphere of worshipping, fasting, festivals, joy and happiness will prevail all around. I extend my greetings to all of you on the upcoming festivals. Enjoy the festivals with your family and your loved ones and include others too in your joy. Next month ‘Mann Ki Baat’ will connect with you bringing in some new topics. I thank, all of you.

    *****

    MJPS/RT/NM

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    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur, Rulli Lead Bipartisan Ohio Colleagues In Letter to USDA Secretary Vilsack Demanding Emergency Measures to Preserve Livestock

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Toledo, Ohio — Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) Dean of the Ohio Congressional Delegation joined Congressman Mike Rulli (OH-06) in leading 7 bipartisan members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation in a letter to United States Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack requesting the expansion of Conservative Reserve Program (CRP) acres eligible for emergency haying and grazing measures. Ohio is currently facing the worst drought on record since the early 1930’s, with natural disaster declarations in place for 28 of Ohio’s 88 counties. In response, farmers have been forced to supplement their livestock with winter hay reserves, but backup resources are beginning to run low.

    Other signers of the letter include Representatives: Troy Balderson (OH-12), Mike Carey OH-15), Warren Davidson (OH-08), Greg Landsman (OH-01), and Brad Wenstrup (OH-02).

    “Ohio’s farmers are facing one of the worst droughts in nearly a century, and need our support,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) senior member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture. “This bipartisan support expressed to Secretary Vilsack from across the Ohio delegation underscores that expanding emergency haying and grazing options for our farmers through the Conservation Reserve Program is so vital.”

    “Ohio’s farmers and ranchers have been struggling to sustain their livestock due to the recent drought. By allowing these CRP acres to be used, we can ensure that our farmers have the support they need to endure these challenges and mitigate long-lasting damage to their livelihoods,” said Congressman Mike Rulli (OH-06). “We must act swiftly to support and defend Ohio’s agricultural industry and protect our national economy.”

    “This year’s extreme drought has wreaked havoc for farmers and small business owners across Ohio,” said Congressman Troy Balderson (OH-12). “I urge the USDA to act quickly and let our farmers take the steps needed to endure this prolonged and difficult drought.”

    Specifically, this letter requests that eligible land in the Conservation Reserve Program include acres in the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) and State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement (SAFE) Program. Allowing a temporary expansion of these emergency resources would further provide relief to Ohio farmers.

    A full copy of the letter can be found by clicking here, or reading below:

    Dear Secretary Vilsack,

    In response to extreme drought conditions impacting Ohio farmers, we are writing to urgently request additional flexibility for emergency haying of eligible Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acres, including those in the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) and State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement (SAFE) program.

    Ohio is currently facing its worst drought on record since the early 1930s, with USDA natural disaster declarations in place for 28 counties. Farmers struggling to stay afloat have resorted to depleting winter hay supplies and prematurely selling off their livestock. With few options remaining and hay reserves running low, a temporary expansion of emergency eligibility will greatly reduce long-term negative impacts stemming from this historic drought.

    While the current allowance for emergency haying and grazing of CRP acres has been a benefit to many struggling farmers, most CRP acres in Southeast and Southern Ohio (where drought conditions are most severe) are ineligible due to their enrollment in CREP or SAFE. Allowing these additional acres to be utilized would provide farmers with desperately needed relief as they fight to keep their livestock fed.

    We remain appreciative of USDA’s continuing response to this unprecedented drought and are hopeful you will act on this important request. Thank you for your urgent consideration.

    Sincerely,

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Ron DeSantis Launches Operation Blue Ridge

    Source: US State of Florida

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida is rapidly deploying recovery assistance to North Carolina and Tennessee to help with Hurricane Helene’s impacts in Operation Blue Ridge. This multi-state agency response will include the Florida Division of Emergency Management, Florida State Guard, Florida National Guard, Florida Department of Transportation, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, Florida Law Enforcement Coordination Task Force, and a Law Enforcement Strike Team. Additionally, today Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Floridians seeking rescue in Western North Carolina will be aided by the State of Florida. Floridians can fill out our assistance form at  FloridaDisaster.org/OperationBlueRidge.

    This mission will begin with the following assets and personnel:
    Florida Division of Emergency Management

    • One All-Hazards Incident Management Team
    • One Communication Unit Strike Team
    • One Telecommunications Emergency Response Task Force
    • Ten Truck Loads of Water (which equates to 42, 550 gallons of water)
    • Over 100 Starlinks

    Florida State Guard

    • Two Special Missions Search and Rescue Teams
      • 8 search and rescue soldiers
      • 1 aerial assessment pilot

    Florida National Guard

    • Two National Guard Response Teams
      • 8 National Guard soldiers
    • Equipment
      • 2 CH-47 Chinooks and crew

    Florida Department of Law Enforcement

    • One Law Enforcement Coordination Taskforce
      • 7 FDLE agents and analysts
    • One Law Enforcement Strike Team
      • 7 FDLE agents and officers

    Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Division of Law Enforcement

    • 22-man team
      • 2 Captains
      • 2 Team Leaders
      • 12 Officers/Investigators
      • 1 LE PIO
      • 1Mechanic
    • Equipment
      • 1 SOG trailer
      • 4 High-water vehicles (buggy/high water UTV)
      • 3 Airboats
      • 3 Shallow Draft vessels
      • 18 4×4 trucks
    • Aviation
      • Fixed wing aircraft
      • 1 pilot
      • 1 tactical flight officer

    Florida Department of Transportation
    The Florida Department of Transportation has made the following resources available to support the immediate inspection and assessment of transportation infrastructure maintained by NCDOT and TDOT:

    • Emergency Cut and Toss Strike Teams
    • Infrastructure Damage Assessment Teams
    • Bridge Inspection Team (including structures impacted by flood waters)
    • Temporary Bridge Materials
    • Hydraulic Modeling Professional
    • Project & Contract Management Teams
    • Public Information Officer & Emergency Communications Technology

    Florida stands ready to continue assisting our neighbors as they begin to recover from Hurricane Helene’s effects. Under Governor Ron DeSantis’ leadership, Florida’s strong disaster preparation and efficient response efforts have made it possible to provide much-needed assistance to other states.

    Follow FDEM on X, Instagram, and Facebook for updates and visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for information relating to Hurricane Helene.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Joint Statement Following the Strategic Dialogue Between Canada, the Kingdom of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    From September 27 to 29, 2024, foreign ministers from Canada and the Nordic countries met in New York and Iqaluit, Nunavut, as part of the Canada-Nordic Strategic Dialogue.

    September 29, 2024 – Iqaluit, Nunavut – Global Affairs Canada

    From September 27 to 29, 2024, the foreign ministers of Canada and the Nordic countries met in New York and Iqaluit, Nunavut, as part of the Canada-Nordic Strategic Dialogue. This meeting follows the commitment made by the foreign ministers to hold a strategic dialogue at the First Ministers’ Meeting in Iceland on June 26, 2023. On September 27, 2024, the foreign ministers of Canada, Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, as well as the State Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Finland, met in New York. On September 28 and 29, they travelled to Iqaluit, Nunavut, where they were joined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Faroe Islands and a representative of the Government of Greenland (Naalakkersuisut). In Iqaluit, Iceland was represented by the Deputy Permanent Secretary of State and Ambassador for the Arctic.

    Canada and the Nordic countries enjoy a strong and growing partnership, rooted in our shared democratic values, our shared interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic region, and our commitment to the rules-based international order, multilateral cooperation, international law, democracy, human rights, and countering disinformation. The transatlantic relationship is key to our collective security, and we will work together to strengthen it. It is the foundation on which we commit to working together pragmatically to address complex global challenges, including those arising from the challenge to the global order.

    In New York, substantive issues were discussed regarding Russia’s illegal and large-scale invasion of Ukraine, transatlantic cooperation and the worrying developments in the Middle East, including in the Gaza Strip. The foreign ministers reiterated their unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s continued aggression and reaffirmed their commitment to continue providing Ukraine with the means to defend itself for as long as necessary. They also condemned Russia’s hostile hybrid operations in response to the support provided to Ukraine.

    The Iqaluit portion of the dialogue focused on Arctic issues. As Arctic nations, Canada and the Nordic countries share a deep commitment to multilateral cooperation and international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Inclusive engagement with those who live in the region, including Indigenous peoples, is essential to ensuring the stability, prosperity and security of the Arctic region. Foreign ministers committed to working together to achieve these goals. To this end, they agreed to explore how to better foster the security dialogue among like-minded Arctic states.

    In Iqaluit, delegations heard valuable insights from the Government of Nunavut, Inuit leaders, including the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, national defence officials, and the Canadian Rangers on the context, realities and challenges facing northerners in Canada’s Arctic. Foreign Ministers expressed deep concern about the intensifying impacts of climate change, particularly in the Arctic. They reaffirmed their commitment to work together pragmatically to address the complex challenges of climate change, promote sustainable economic growth in the Arctic, foster regional stability, and support stronger collaboration, including North-North and Indigenous-Indigenous linkages.

    Canada and the Nordic countries will continue to explore opportunities to deepen their collaboration to combat wildfires in the North and to ensure healthy oceans and ecosystem resources, as part of a comprehensive, sustainable and knowledge-based approach to ocean management.

    Foreign Ministers recognize that our countries possess significant deposits of critical minerals and confirm their commitment to promoting the responsible development of sustainable and resilient value chains for these critical minerals, and to working together to advance economic well-being, defense and security, infrastructure, energy security and connectivity, including in the Arctic.

    Foreign Ministers agreed to continue dialogue on shared political priorities and to further strengthen transatlantic cooperation between Canada and the Nordic countries.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Joint statement following the Strategic Dialogue between Canada, Kingdom of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Between September 27 and 29, 2024, the foreign ministers of Canada and the Nordic countries met in New York and Iqaluit, Nunavut, for the Canada-Nordic Strategic Dialogue.

    September 29, 2024 – Iqaluit, Nunavut – Global Affairs Canada

    Between September 27 and 29, 2024, the foreign ministers of Canada and the Nordic countries met in New York and Iqaluit, Nunavut, for the Canada-Nordic Strategic Dialogue. This meeting delivers on the commitment for foreign ministers to hold a strategic dialogue, made at the Prime Minister level meeting in Iceland, on June 26, 2023. On September 27, 2024, the foreign ministers of Canada, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden and the State Secretary to the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland met in New York. On September 28 and 29, they traveled to Iqaluit, Nunavut where they were joined by the Foreign Minister of the Faroe Islands and an official from the Government of Greenland (Naalakkersuisut). In Iqaluit, Iceland was represented by the Deputy Permanent Secretary of State / Arctic Ambassador.

    Canada and the Nordic countries enjoy a strong and deepening partnership, anchored in our common democratic values, shared interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic region, as well as our commitment to the rules-based international order, multilateral cooperation, international law, democracy, human rights, and tackling disinformation. The transatlantic relationship is key to our collective security, and we will work together to strengthen this relationship. This is the foundation upon which we commit to work pragmatically together to address complex global challenges, including those arising from challenges to the global order.

    In New York, substantive issues were discussed relating to Russia’s illegal and full-scale invasion of Ukraine, transatlantic cooperation, and the concerning developments taking place in the Middle East, including the Gaza Strip. The foreign ministers reiterated their steadfast support to Ukraine in the face of continued Russian aggression and re-affirmed their commitment to continue to provide Ukraine the means to defend itself for as long as it takes. They also condemned the hostile hybrid operations Russia conducts in response to support given to Ukraine.  

    The Iqaluit portion of the Dialogue focused on Arctic issues. As Arctic nations, Canada and the Nordic countries share a deep commitment to multilateral cooperation and international law, including UNCLOS. Inclusive engagement with those who live there, including Indigenous peoples, is essential to ensure a stable, prosperous and secure Arctic region. The foreign ministers committed to work together to achieve these goals. To this end, they agreed to explore means through which to deepen security dialogue amongst all like-minded states in the Arctic.

    In Iqaluit, the delegation heard valuable perspectives from the Government of Nunavut, Inuit leaders including from Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, National Defence officials and Canadian Rangers on the context, realities and challenges experienced by northerners in the Canadian Arctic. The foreign ministers expressed their strong concern over the intensifying impacts of climate change, notably in the Arctic. They re-affirmed their commitment to work pragmatically together to address complex climate change challenges, to promote sustainable economic growth in the Arctic, to foster regional stability and to support closer collaboration, including North-to-North and Indigenous-to-Indigenous connections.

    Canada and the Nordic countries will continue to explore opportunities to deepen collaboration in addressing wildland fires in the North and securing healthy oceans and ecosystem-based resources as part of a comprehensive, knowledge-based, and sustainable approach to ocean management.

    The foreign ministers recognize that our countries possess significant deposits of critical minerals and confirm their commitment to promote the responsible development of sustainable and resilient critical mineral value chains and to work together to advance economic well-being, defence and security, infrastructure, energy security and connectivity, including in the Arctic.

    The foreign ministers agreed to continue the dialogue on shared policy priorities and to further strengthen the transatlantic cooperation between Canada and the Nordic countries.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with caretaker Prime Minister of Lebanon Najib Mikati

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the caretaker Prime Minister of Lebanon, Najib Mikati, about the ongoing situation in the Middle East.

    Prime Minister Trudeau expressed concern over the devastating effects of recent events on civilians in Lebanon, recognizing the hundreds killed in airstrikes, and he emphasized the urgent need for de-escalation to preserve unity. The people of Lebanon deserve to live in peace and security and should not bear the consequences of actions by Hezbollah, a terrorist organization. Prime Minister Trudeau also underscored the impact on the families of Canadians who have been affected, especially those who have been killed or injured.

    The two leaders discussed efforts underway to support de-escalation across the region, including for an immediate ceasefire. Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated that Canada is committed to continue working with the international community to help advance peace in the region, as underscored by our call for an immediate 21-day ceasefire across the Lebanon-Israel border. The Prime Minister expressed his support for a diplomatic settlement consistent with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, as well as for the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735 regarding a ceasefire in Gaza.

    The leaders expressed their shared concerns over the worsening humanitarian situation resulting from the conflict. They agreed on the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law, ensuring humanitarian access to the affected areas, preserving the safety and security of civilian infrastructure, and protecting civilians. Prime Minister Trudeau reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to humanitarian support in Lebanon through the recent announcement of $10 million in funding for humanitarian assistance to address the urgent needs of civilians in Lebanon.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and caretaker Prime Minister Mikati highlighted the strong people-to-people ties between Canada and Lebanon and the ongoing contributions of Lebanese Canadians to Canada’s national fabric. They agreed to remain in close contact as the situation continues to evolve.

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Disaster Response Surges in Western North Carolina Following Hurricane Helene

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Disaster Response Surges in Western North Carolina Following Hurricane Helene

    Disaster Response Surges in Western North Carolina Following Hurricane Helene
    mseets

    Critical supplies are starting to reach Western North Carolina communities hit hard by devastating Hurricane Helene as crews make progress toward restoring power and cell phone service and repairing roads.

    Food, water and other needs are arriving in Asheville and also being airlifted by the North Carolina National Guard into counties across Western North Carolina. Cellphone providers are working to fix the damage and get stopgap solutions in place and rapid progress is being made. Across the region, more than 500,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of more than one million.  

    “People are desperate for help — and we are pushing to get it to them. Please know that we are sending resources, and coordinating closely with local governments, first responders, state and federal partners, and volunteer organizations to help those impacted by this tragic storm,” Governor Roy Cooper said. “This is an unprecedented tragedy that requires an unprecedented response.”

    NC National Guard members are working alongside local emergency responders conducting search and rescue missions, delivering needed supplies, and helping to restore infrastructure. Approximately 550 North Carolina National Guard personnel have been deployed in response to the storm, along with more than 100 vehicles and 11 aircraft.

    Twenty-four emergency shelters have opened, providing capacity for 942 residents. Shelter information can be found at readync.gov.

    Eleven storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Helene and dozens of people have been reported missing. This number is the confirmed number reported by North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and is expected to rise. First responders have received hundreds of calls for rescue and more than 1,000 requests for welfare checks. State search and rescue teams have conducted hundreds of rescues and are being assisted from teams from more than a dozen other states.

    More than 1,600 North Carolina Department of Transportation employees and contract crews are working to clear roads and get them open again, but 280 state-maintained roads remain closed including parts of Interstate 40 and Interstate 26. NCDOT is getting food and water supply trucks, power and cellphone utility trucks, and other vehicles through damaged roads and into Western North Carolina.

    People are urged to stay off Western North Carolina roads so that emergency responders, utility crews, and desperately needed supplies can get through. Real time road conditions are available at drivenc.gov.

    The federal government late yesterday granted Gov. Cooper’s request for a Federal Major Disaster Declaration, providing immediate help for 25 North Carolina counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. This disaster declaration will provide both individual assistance for people living in those counties and public assistance to reimburse local governments, state agencies and non-profits for funds spent repairing facilities and infrastructure. Additional information about these resources can be found at disasterassistance.gov or by calling the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

    Residents affected by the storm should pay close attention to advisories and updates from their local government and emergency services, as this is an evolving situation. Residents with storm-related issues or questions should call 211 for assistance and press 1. This includes requests for welfare checks for loved ones in the affected area. Call 911 for emergencies only.

    Information resources and information regarding Hurricane Helene can be found at www.ncdps.gov/helene. The most up-to-date information on local conditions, shelters, and resources can be found by following county government social media and websites or by visiting ReadyNC.gov, which features traffic, power outage and shelter information. 

    ###

    Sep 29, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Supports Continued FEMA, Federal Family Helene Response

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Biden-Harris Administration Supports Continued FEMA, Federal Family Helene Response

    Biden-Harris Administration Supports Continued FEMA, Federal Family Helene Response

    WASHINGTON — Together with state, tribal and federal partners, the Biden-Harris Administration and FEMA are actively supporting Hurricane Helene response and recovery efforts. People should be aware of ongoing post-storm hazards that can be life-threatening. Everyone in affected areas should continue to follow instructions from local officials to stay safe. 

    Yesterday, President Joseph R. Biden approved Major Disaster declarations for Florida and North Carolina. These designations help individuals so they can start their recovery. These declarations also provide federal assistance to help communities clean up and start the rebuilding process. 

    At the direction of President Biden, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is on the ground in Georgia today and will be in North Carolina tomorrow to survey damage and assessing the need for federal resources. 

    FEMA has more than 800 deployed staff supporting states affected by the hurricane. Our distribution centers are fully stocked and ready to provide commodities and equipment to any impacted state as requested. FEMA is coordinating a federal force of more than 3,200 personnel each contributing their expertise and manpower to this mission. 

    Emergency declarations are still in effect for Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama. Under an emergency declaration, FEMA can provide support for urgent disaster response activities. FEMA and state partners continue to assess affects from the hurricane in these states to determine if further federal assistance is needed. Visit FEMA.gov to learn how a disaster gets declared.

    • Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas activated the Surge Capacity Force (SCF). The SCF makes rostered federal employees available to support FEMA’s response and recovery missions. 
    • Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) deployed a total of 24 teams with more than 1,302 personnel to affected states. All teams are equipped with Swift Water Rescue Capabilities. In Florida, eight US&R teams are actively responding. Four team are in North Carolina, two are in Tennessee. Additional teams and four Swift Water Mission Ready Packages are in route to the impacted areas.
    • U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Crews saved or assisted 11 lives and four pets in the Hurricane Helene response to date. USCG units in the affected areas are ready to support search and rescue, conducting post-storm assessments and providing interagency support. More than 8,000 personnel are assisting in response efforts.
    • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has teams positioned to provide temporary emergency power, with others prepared to deploy if needed. In addition to temporary emergency power, personnel assist the states with assessments of critical infrastructure including water/wastewater treatment facilities, debris management, and road and bridge inspections as needed. USACE is also providing technical expertise for flood responses. They have activated eight emergency operation centers in the affected regions to coordinate operations. 
    • Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) declared Public Health Emergencies for Florida and Georgia to address the health impacts of Hurricane Helene. The declarations give the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services health care providers and suppliers greater flexibility in meeting emergency health needs of their beneficiaries. HHS staff are assessing public health and health care infrastructure. The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response medical responders are in Alabama, Florida and North Carolina to help secure heal care services. These personnel include Health Care Situational Assessment teams and National Disaster Medical System Disaster Medical Assistance Teams along with several tons of medical equipment and supplies to provide medical surge support. A Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team Subject Matter Expert activated for North Carolina. HHS is offering free crisis counseling through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Disaster Distress Helpline. Call or text 1-800-985-5990. Español: Llama o envía un mensaje de texto 1-800-985-5990 presiona “2.” For Deaf and Hard of Hearing ASL Callers: To connect directly to an agent in American Sign Language, click the “ASL Now” button below or call 1-800-985-5990 from your videophone. ASL Support is available 24/7. FAQs for ASL NOW users. 
    • Department of Energy (DOE) activated the Energy Response Organization (ERO) and is closely monitoring impacts and restoration efforts related to Helene, including power, fuel, and supply chain interruptions. The ERO and field responders are in contact with industry partners and local officials. DOE responders deployed to the Florida Emergency Operations Center, Georgia Emergency Operations Center, and the North Carolina Emergency Operations Center. 
    • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is working closely with federal, state, local and Tribal partners to help water systems, prepare for debris management and ensure facilities, including Superfund sites, maintain critical public health and environmental protections. The agency has personnel on the ground in regional and national operations centers who are offering technical assistance and guidance to those affected by Helene. 
    • American Red Cross (ARC) has more than 745 Red Cross responders deployed to affected areas with another 320 responders in route. As of Sunday morning, systems reporting indicates 2,033 people are still in 73 shelters. As anticipated, ARC is seeing this count rise as they continue to gain connectivity and more clarity about the evolving need in the Carolinas.  More than 45 Emergency Response Vehicles are supporting this event and two dozen additional vehicles are moving into position throughout affected areas. Anyone who needs a safe place to go can find information on redcross.org or by texting GETEMERGENCY to 90999 to download the free Red Cross Emergency app. 
    • Salvation Army is increasing its services in response to community needs. In Florida, they are providing meals through 17 mobile feeding units: five in Live Oak and 12 in Perry, where they are serving hot meals. Teams are also assisting survivors and responders along Florida’s west coast, delivering cleanup kits, blankets, and meals. In Georgia, The Salvation Army is serving meals at six shelters and will begin operations in Douglas/Alma and Vidalia on Sunday through mobile feeding units. In South Carolina, they are supporting meal service at the Greenwood County shelter and have activated a mobile unit. In Tennessee, Salvation Army is working alongside Baptist Kitchen, serving meals at two state shelters. Two mobile units are in Johnson City and Newport will start meal service beginning Monday. Full details and service locations are available at disaster.salvationarmyusa.org.
    • USA.gov published a one-stop-shop for hurricane information. 

    amy.ashbridge

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rubio Joins NBC’s Meet the Press

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio
    U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) joined NBC’s Meet the Press to discuss the impact of Hurricane Helene and the latest with Hezbollah, Iran, Russia, and more. See below for highlights, and watch the full interview on YouTube and Rumble.

    On destruction caused by Hurricane Helene and what comes next:

    “The number one thing you want is to have power back up and the roads open, and the state is doing a great job of getting the roads cleared and open. Power obviously is more difficult. We were at a million people without power, and that number has dramatically dropped. 
    “There are some parts of our state, I think about Cedar Key, for example. Beautiful place. People love going there. It’s tough to get there right now, but from all reports, it’s unfortunately been pretty much wiped out. So there are some coastal areas, some of which are now facing their third storm in the last 12 months. 
    “As far as the resources look, it’s primarily a state obligation. The state steps forward if the state needs anything to give to local communities. That’s where FEMA comes in. And then we’re hoping to get a major declaration here today from the White House that will open up individual assistance to more counties, for people who have been displaced and have nowhere to live will qualify at the individual level for assistance in the short term while they get their lives back together.
    “Our thoughts are also with people in Georgia and across the southeast who have also been impacted by the storm as it made its way through those states as well.”

    On the Israeli airstrike that killed Hezbollah leader, Hassan Nasrallah:

    “I think if Nasrallah was still alive, the threat of a broader conflict is even higher. This is a guy who cheerfully said, ‘Death to America, death to Israel.’ Now, when you’re a country and someone runs an organization that exists for the specific and defined purpose of destroying you, you have no choice but to treat that person as an enemy and to confront them. This is the guy that spent years cheering on suicide bombings that killed innocents, the kidnapping of Israelis.
    “There are 60,000 Israelis right now who, for almost a year, have had to leave their homes in northern Israel and are living in hotels in Tel Aviv. Their kids are going to school online in conference rooms because the group that Nasrallah headed, which is Hezbollah, was using anti-tank weapons, not guided long-range missiles, anti-tank weapons, to target them and civilian infrastructure. So people had to leave. What country can have 60,000 people permanently displaced? That’s what this issue with Hezbollah is all about. 
    “Israel wants a six to 10-mile buffer between itself and Hezbollah so they can’t be using these shoulder-fired rockets to target cities and civilian communities, so people can move back to their homes. Hezbollah refuses to pull back and continues with those attacks. So Israel has no choice but to defend itself. Wiping out not just Nasrallah, but the senior leadership of this evil organization, I think, is a service to humanity.” 

    On whether Iran will retaliate against Israel:

    “Iran is constantly looking to hurt Israel, and they seem to be willing to fight to the last Shia militia member. Ultimately, that will be Iran’s decision to make. Their goal is to dominate that region. They seek to drive America out of the region and then destroy Israel. Any time the Iranian regime is on defense, it’s good for the world, good for America, and good for Israel. It’ll be up to the Iranians to decide what they’re going to do. But I believe that they will find themselves in a very precarious situation if, in fact, they do escalate this on their part.”

    On whether peaceful relations with Iran are possible:

    “If the Iranian regime tomorrow said, ‘We’re going to stop trying to become the regional power, we’re going to stop our nuclear weapons, we’re going to stop sponsoring terrorism, we’re going to stop trying to kill you [which is what they’re trying to do with Donald Trump], we’re going to stop all of these things,’ theoretically, yes. Of course, you could work something like that out. That’s just unlikely because that’s the very driving mission and purpose of the regime…. 
    “The Iranian people are nothing like the regime. I know of few countries in the world whose leaders and people are more different. The Iranian people are not seeking to be a regional hegemonic power. They’re not seeking to sponsor terrorism. In fact, there’s a lot of pressure inside of Iran among people arguing, with all the problems they have at home, why are they spending all this money on Shia militias and terrorists and Hezbollah and helping Hamas and building terrorist networks in the West Bank? 
    “Ideally, that’s the world we’d love to live in. If that opportunity presents itself, who wouldn’t take it? What we can’t have is a world in which Iran has unlimited resources to continue to sponsor terrorism, build towards nuclear capability, and build these long-range rockets and missiles that they have developed in the last few years, which threaten not just Israel and the entire region, but ultimately the United States.”

    On the inevitability of a negotiated settlement in Ukraine: 

    “I’m not on Russia’s side, but, unfortunately, the reality of it is that the way the war in Ukraine is going to end is with a negotiated settlement. I want, we want, and I believe Donald Trump wants, for Ukraine to have more leverage in that negotiation. But in order to be in a position to be a broker who can bring about that agreement, I think he’s going to preserve what he says. He approaches these things not as someone in politics or diplomacy, but as someone with a background in business. It’s not going to be easy to do, but at least there’s a defined goal. 
    “The Biden Administration has not defined what victory means in Ukraine. They have not defined, ‘This is what victory looks like,’ and if you press them, they will tell you what I have just said to you, which is the way this conflict ultimately ends, with a negotiation. I don’t know why we can’t just say that. We hope that when that time comes, there is more leverage on the Ukrainian side than on the Russian side. That really is the goal here in my mind. I think that’s what Donald Trump is trying to say, but he’s going to say it like a businessman. But Biden won’t even tell us what victory is.
    “I think what the deal looks like will be up to the parties when they negotiate it. Obviously, Zelensky is not going to come out there and say it. From a negotiating standpoint, he’s not going to go out there and predetermine what it looks like. I understand why he wouldn’t want to go out there and define what it looks like at the front end. But the reality of it is that we, as Americans, are investing billions of dollars into this effort. It’s important that as we invest this money into this effort, we tell the American taxpayer, ‘This is what the money is going towards.’ Ultimately, it’s not an endless war. 
    “I would be comfortable with a deal that ends these hostilities, and that I think is favorable to Ukraine, meaning that they have their own sovereignty, that they don’t become a satellite state or a puppet state that is constantly held hostage by the Russians. I’m not going to prejudge any agreement. 
    “The Ukrainians don’t want to live in a country where the Russians dominate their territory. What’s the future of Crimea? The Russians claim it. Obviously, they stole it back in 2014, in the first invasion. You have to ask the Obama Administration why that happened under their watch. But at the end of the day, the most important thing here is that these hostilities end, Ukraine can go back to rebuilding its economy, and its people can move back. They’ve lost millions of people as refugees. It’s been devastating to them. But that negotiation is going to be up to them. I just want them to have more leverage than Putin.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hurricane Helene update #2 from Congressman Edwards

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Edwards (NC-11)

    Dear Friend,

    Two days post-disaster and the country is showing up for us. More than 30 swift water and helicopter rescue crews from across North Carolina and seven nearby states have rescued more than 200 people since Thursday. Thousands of linemen from across North America, including crews from Canada, have been deployed to our community to restore power, and we’ve seen the state come together to transport dozens of trucks filled with potable water and food to our shelters.

    While resources are certainly on the top of many communities’ minds, I have heard from numerous families that are still trying to connect with their loved ones who may be in areas with limited cell service. Residents trying to connect with family members may call NC 211 (or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state) to report missing loved ones.

    Additionally, people in the impacted areas can indicate that they are safe by reporting themselves safe through Red Cross Reunification by calling 1-800-ED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Please only use 911 for life-threatening emergencies so the lines remain open for critical situations.

    Lastly, North Carolina has officially received a Major Disaster Declaration, making individuals in Buncombe, Clay, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, and Yancey Counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians eligible for Individual Assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

    Individual Assistance provides financial aid and services to eligible individuals and households that have been affected by a disaster to assist with the recovery process. Individuals can officially begin applying for Individual Assistance online at http://www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or by calling the application phone number at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. EST.

    Just a reminder that today is update number two of many, with more information to follow in the coming days. Please make sure to read everything and share it with your friends and family.

    Food and Water

    • Supplying drinkable water remains a top priority for emergency crews.
      • Water plants in Haywood, Jackson, Rutherford and Yancey counties are closed, impacting tens of thousands of households.
      • A total of 17 water plants have reported having no power and an additional 23 are operating on backup power.
    • A total of 50 water systems are on a system-wide boil water advisory.
    • Dozens of trucks with potable water and meals have successfully been delivered to western NC, including to the WNC Agricultural Center, and many more are en route.
      • Air operations for food and water deliveries began Saturday afternoon in areas without roadway access.
    • Walmart, Sam’s Club, and the Walmart Foundation have committed up to $6 million in support of hurricane relief efforts, including donations of food, water, essential supplies and grants to organizations providing relief.
    • My office continues to work with additional private companies to get much needed food and water delivered across our district.

    Power and Gas

    • Power outages remain widespread in Western North Carolina, but NCDOT is working diligently to clear roadways and increase accessibility for repairs.
      • Currently, there is still no established timeline for restorations, but Duke Energy hopes to publish restoration power timelines in the coming days.
      • I will keep you posted when we learn of those timelines.
    • Energy providers are working around the clock to restore power and have successfully restored power for over 544,000 customers across the state, but here is the lay of the land in NC-11:
      • 630,000 customer accounts remained without power Saturday afternoon.
        • The bulk of the outages are in Buncombe County.
      • 3,400 critical customer accounts are out – critical accounts include hospitals, fire stations, police, EMS, water treatment facilities, etc.
        • 1,600 are healthcare accounts
        • 200 are nursing facilities
          • As of Saturday evening, power has been restored to AdventHealth in Fletcher and my office has been assured that power at Pardee Hospital should be restored later this afternoon, Sunday, September 29.
        • 360 substations are out
          • A substation is responsible for transmitting electricity throughout Western North Carolina.
            • Many of these substations were completely flooded and Duke Energy is unable to assess the damage until the flooding has lowered, the water has been pumped out and the equipment is thoroughly dried.
          • The flooding provides a unique challenge not previously faced by substations in Western North Carolina.
            • There is a high likelihood that the substations are not reparable, and replacement of the substation equipment will be necessary.
            • Duke Energy is prepared to both repair or replace damaged equipment once the equipment has been dried and assessments are complete.
        • Duke Energy continues to warn that Western North Carolinians should be prepared for multi-day outages.
          • Over 11,000 linemen are continuing to work quickly and safely on repairs, including additional crews from 19 states and Canada.
        • Fuel planning continues to be ongoing for both rescue operations and communications resources.
          • Fuel contracts have been activated.
            • A fuel contract provides a steady fuel reserve during an emergency.
          • Air deliveries have already begun in hard-to-reach areas.

    Roads

    • A “DO NOT DRIVE” message remains in place from the North Carolina Department of Transportation for Western North Carolina.
      • Unless it is an emergency, please do not travel.
    • As of 5 p.m. on Saturday, September 27, 385 roads remain closed in Western North Carolina, with the majority being in Henderson (48), Buncombe (25) and Jackson (20) counties.
      • Over 15 closed roads have been cleared of debris and reopened since Saturday morning.
        • 59 of these are on primary routes including I-40 at mile marker three near the Tennessee-North Carolina border and dozens of U.S. and N.C. routes.
        • A previously closed section of I-26 south of Asheville has reopened.
      • Crews have opened a path through the rock/landslide on I-40 near Old Fort to allow stranded vehicles and emergency responders to pass through with assistance from Highway Patrol.
        • The remaining closures remain due to high water, land/rockslides, downed power lines, pipe failures and fallen trees.
      • More than 100 additional NCDOT employees have been deployed from across the state to assist Western North Carolina in clearing debris and addressing storm-related road closures, bringing the total number of deployed NCDOT personnel to 1,600 employees.

    Asheville Regional Airport

    • Asheville Regional Airport closed mid-day on Friday, September 27, due to risk of flooding.
    • The airport was expected to reopen by mid-day Saturday, September 28, but was unable to do so.
      • The airport was unable to reopen for commercial flights due to a lack of internet service, preventing commercial airlines from processing their passengers for boarding.
      • No commercial flights are permitted in or out of Asheville Regional Airport at this time.
    • Asheville Regional Airport has reopened for non-commercial air traffic, including planes delivering National Guard supplies for in-need counties.

    Cell Service

    • Western North Carolina continues to see severe cell service outages due to the flooding.
    • Service providers have deployed additional Compact Rapid Deployables since Friday, with more on the way.
      • Current on-air network recovery equipment include:
        • Buncombe County – 1 Compact Rapid Deployable
        • Henderson County – 1 SatCOLT
      • Network recovery equipment en route to in-need counties include:
        • Buncombe County – 4 SatCOLTs
        • Cherokee County – 1 SatCOLT, 1 Compact Rapid Deployable
        • Clay County – 1 Compact Rapid Deployable
        • Haywood County – 2 SatCOLTs, 3 Compact Rapid Deployables
        • Henderson County – 3 SatCOLTs, 1 Compact Rapid Deployable
        • Macon County – 1 SatCOLT
        • Madison County – SatCOLT
        • McDowell County – 1 SatCOLT
        • Transylvania County – 1 SatCOLT
        • Rutherford County – 1 SatCOLT, 1 Compact Rapid Deployable
      • Compact Rapid Deployables are a transportable cell tower and internet access point that can generate wired internet and wi-fi coverage anytime and anywhere.
      • SatCOLT stands for “Satellite Cells on Light Trucks” and are vehicles with mobile cell sites that connect via satellite and do not rely on commercial power supply.

    North Carolina National Guard

    • 410 North Carolina National Guard soldiers and airmen have been deployed to provide support to Western North Carolina so far.
      • This includes the deployment of 76 High Water Vehicles, 12 Palletized Load Systems for commodity distribution and six Forestry Support Teams for debris clearance.
    • The National Guard currently has 10 operating aircraft.
      • The National Guard is actively awaiting 2 additional CH-47 aircraft from New York and two to four additional hoist-equipped aircraft from other states.
    • The Asheville National Guard Armory remains relocated in East Flat Rock due to lost power.
      • Despite the relocation, the Asheville National Guard Armory has continued operations and is providing support to Western North Carolina.
    • The National Guard has Readiness Centers actively monitoring and serving Western North Carolina in the following locations:
      • Asheville
      • Morganton
      • Charlotte
      • Greensboro
      • Rockingham
      • Raleigh – aviation assets only
        • Readiness Centers can serve as Joint Operation Centers when disasters exceed local capabilities.
        • The above-mentioned Readiness Centers work with North Carolina’s Office of Emergency Management to respond to western NC as military first responders.

    For Local Government Resource Requests

    • For county leaders: This is a reminder to make sure your Emergency Operation Center has submitted the request for gasoline, food, water, cell service deployables, etc. with North Carolina Emergency Management to have your request processed and resources delivered.
      • My office stands ready to assist with checking the status of your request if the county or municipality has not heard back from NC Emergency Management within 24 hours.

    Shelters

    • For those unable to evacuate to a safe location or in need of a place to go, the following shelters are currently open and available as of September 29:
      • Buncombe
        • A-B Technical Community College
          • 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801
        • First Baptist Church Swannanoa
          • 503 Park St., Swannanoa, NC 28778
        • WNC Agricultural Center
          • 1301 Fanning Bridge Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732
      • Haywood
        • Haywood County Government Armory
          • 285 Armory Dr., Clyde, NC 28781
      • Henderson
        • Edneyville Elementary School
          • 2875 Pace Rd., Hendersonville, NC 28792
        • Henderson County Recreation Center
          • 708 S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792
      • Jackson
        • Cashiers Recreation Center
          • 355 Frank Allen Rd., Cashiers, NC 28717
        • Jackson County Department of Aging
          • 100 County Services Pk., Sylva, NC 28779
      • Madison
        • Madison County Wellness Center
          • 5734 US 25-70 Hwy., Marshall, NC 28752
      • McDowell
        • First Baptist Church of Old Fort
          • 203 E. Main St., Old Fort, NC 28762
        • Glenwood Baptist Church
          • 1550 Old US 221 S., Marion, NC 28752
        • McDowell County Senior Center
          • 100 Spaulding Rd., Marion, NC 28752
      • Polk
        • Polk County High School
          • 1681 NC 108 Highway E., Columbus, NC 28722
      • Rutherford
        • Rutherfordton/Spindale Central High School
          • 641 US 221 Hwy. N., Rutherfordton, NC 28139
      • Swain
        • Swain Community College
          • 125 Brendle St., Bryson City, NC 28713
      • Transylvania
        • Pisgah Forest Baptist Church
          • 494 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
      • Yancey
        • South Toe Elementary School
          • 139 South Toe School Rd., Burnsville, NC 28714
        • West Yancey Volunteer Fire Department
          • 6557 US Hwy. 19, Burnsville, NC 28714

    With my warmest regards,


    Chuck Edwards
    Member of Congress

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Lebanon: the killing of Hassan Nasrallah leaves Hezbollah leaderless and vulnerable

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ori Wertman, Research fellow, Faculty of Life Sciences and Education, University of South Wales

    The assassination of Hezbollah chief, Hassan Nasrallah, in an Israeli airstrike on September 28 is a decisive blow – not only to Hezbollah, but also to Iran, which has lost its greatest ally in the Middle East.

    In recent days, the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has risen to its most intense level since the end of the second Lebanon war in the summer of 2006. The day after Hamas’ brutal October 7 terror attack, in which 1,200 Israelis were massacred – many of them civilians murdered in their homes in towns near the Gaza border or at the nearby Nova music festival – Hezbollah opened another front against Israel.

    Hezbollah, which has been designated by the US and UK governments as a terror organisation, was quick to express support and solidarity with Hamas and immediately began launching rockets at civilian and military targets in northern Israel.

    Fearing that Hezbollah might carry out a similar incursion in Galilee, resulting in a massacre of the Jewish civilian population, the Israeli government evacuated roughly 100,000 citizens living near the Lebanese border. These people have now been displaced from their homes for a year.

    Until recently, the fighting between the parties was characterised by a relatively low intensity. Hezbollah has launched thousands of rockets and drones at Israeli civilian and military targets. These have mainly been in the north of the country, killing dozens of Israelis since October 2023. The IDF has responded with airstrikes and artillery fire against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, including rocket depots and other military infrastructure. But to an extent, the exchanges were seen as being below the level that might escalate into all-out war betweeen Israel and Hezbollah.

    In July, a Hezbollah rocket attack killed 12 children in a football field in the Druze village of Majdal Shams in the Golan Heights. In response, three days later, Israel assassinated Hezbollah’s most senior commander, the head of its strategic unit, Fuad Shukr, in an airstrike in Beirut.

    The violence has steadily escalated since. On August 25, as Hezbollah was preparing a major rocket attack on the north and centre of Israel, the IDF launched a preemptive strike against Hezbollah missile launchers that were poised to strike at targets within Israel. In mid-September, the Israeli security cabinet announced it had added the return of displaced residents from the cuntry’s north to its war goals.

    Days later, in a highly complex operation thousands of Hezbollah pagers exploded, killing dozens and wounding thousands of Hezbollah militants. The following day Hezbollah’s network of walkie talkies was targeted in the same way. Israel has not claimed responsibility for either of these incidents, but what cannot be denied is that they caused considerable damage to Hezbollah’s command and control.

    Two days after that, on September 20, Shukr’s successor, Ibrahim Akil, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in the Dahieh suburb of Beirut, along with dozens of senior commanders of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan force.

    Operation Northen Arrows

    Yet all these moves were only the prelude to Operation Northern Arrows, which began on September 23. The Israeli air force attacked 1,600 Hezbollah targets, including thousands of rocket and missile launchers that had been stored among the civilian population throughout Lebanon.

    Hezbollah has responded by firing rockets at Israel, most of which were intercepted by Israel’s air defence systems. It is estimated that Hezbollah had an arsenal of 150,000 rockets, including medium and long-range missiles. Many of these have now been eliminated by Israeli airstrikes. Hezbollah still has precision-guided munitions and drones, but recent Israeli strikes have eliminated much of Hezbollah’s chain of command and severely disrupted its operational equilibrium. The assassination of many of Hezbollah’s senior leadership – and now Nasrallah himself – has all but destroyed the group’s military chain of command.

    So far there has been no sign from Tehran that Iran intends to intervene militarily to help Hezbollah. This must call into question the advantage of acting as one of the country’s most important proxies in the region. In this context, many in Beirut, Damascus, Sana’a and Gaza are surely asking themselves now what is the advantage of being Iran’s emissaries, if the latter leaves them alone to face Israel.

    Ceasefire unlikely?

    As a result, the main hope for Hezbollah – and Lebanon itself, into whose economic and political structures Hezbollah has become so firmly embedded – is that the international community will impose a ceasefire on both sides in an effort to avoid this becoming a wider regional conflict. The US and France have pushed for a 21-day ceasefire. But it seems that, like its fight against Hamas in Gaza, Israel is determined to continue the military operation against Hezbollah.

    Now the world is waiting to see whether Israel will send troops into in Lebanon. Already thousands of citizens in the south of the country have fled north. But despite a statement from IDF chief of staff, Maj Gen Herzi Halevi, that the IDF is preparing to launch a ground operation in Lebanon, it is not at all certain that Israel wants to return to Lebanese soil.

    In May 2000 the IDF pulled back from southern Lebanon to the international border after 18 years of occupation and in 2006 it did the same in compliance with UN security council resolution 1701.

    There’s also a good chance that, given the success of its campaign of airstrikes in neutralising the military threat from Hezbollah, an actual ground invasion may be postponed for now.

    The US and other countries, including the UK, have urged Israel to put a hold on any invasion plans and agree a ceasefire. It presents the Biden administration, which is keenly aware of the need to keep both Jewish and Arab voters onside, with a tough choice. But it is hard to believe that Biden, especially during an election campaign and in light of the special relationship between the countries, will put pressure on Jerusalem to stop its fight against Iranian proxy terrorism.

    Ori Wertman 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. Lebanon: the killing of Hassan Nasrallah leaves Hezbollah leaderless and vulnerable – https://theconversation.com/lebanon-the-killing-of-hassan-nasrallah-leaves-hezbollah-leaderless-and-vulnerable-239992

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Backgrounder: Water infrastructure upgrades across British Columbia 

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Backgrounder

    The federal government is investing more than $3 million through the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) to support four water infrastructure projects across British Columbia. The Government of British Columbia is investing more than $2.5 million in these projects and municipal partners are contributing a combined $2 million and are responsible for any additional costs.

    Project Information:

    Location

    Project Name

    Project Details

    Federal Funding

    Provincial Funding

    Municipal Funding

    *City of Richmond

    Minoru Park Drainage and Sustainability Enhancements

    This project will build a stormwater detention pond and improve ditches to capture, treat, and reduce sedimentation from stormwater in downstream canals and storm mains.

    $958,750

    $798,878

    $639,247

    *District of Hope

    Water Utility Amalgamation Project

    This project will rehabilitate a water storage reservoir and construct a booster station to enhance water access and fire-fighting capabilities.

    $850,038

    $708,294

    $566,763

    *Village of Harrison Hot Springs

    Hot Springs Road (Hwy 9) – Storm Sewer Infrastructure

    This project will upgrade stormwater infrastructure to increase its capacity to treat and manage stormwater to prevent future flooding.

    $800,000

    $666,600

    $533,400

    *Regional District of Alberni-Clayoquot

    West Bamfield Submarine Water Main Replacement Project

    This project will replace a submarine water main to deliver treated, potable water to the community and enhance fire-fighting capabilities.

    $470,095

    $391,707

    $313,436

    *Federal funding is conditional on fulfilling all requirements related to consultation with Indigenous groups and environmental assessment obligations.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: We are in a safe place, for now

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    On Friday, the 27th of September, we heard and felt a huge series of blasts while we were in meetings at the office. We wrapped up work and got stuck in heavy traffic. I had just relocated to a safer place since the bombing around Beirut and across the country intensified on Monday. When I reached my new home around 10 p.m., my relatives had already joined us – leaving their homes, thinking it would be safer where we were.

    From my balcony, I saw dozens and dozens of people walking in the streets carrying what they could, plastic bags, backpacks, or nothing. People in the southern suburbs around ours had received evacuation orders from the Israeli armed forces. We saw people fleeing on foot, some walking with sticks, young and elderly. Some people were in cars. We were not in the neighborhood that was targeted but we heard drones and planes. We felt them close by. Suddenly, there was darkness all around and bombing started everywhere. There was heavy smoke and people in the streets were coughing. I was with my mum, brother and sister, and trying to figure out what to do next. Are the roads safe? Where do we go?

    I had just left my house in Dahieh—the southern suburb of Beirut—a few days ago because of the heavy bombardments and moved to this one’s. We thought we would be safer here. Now we had to leave again. I grabbed a bag of essential items I had at hand. We were told that it’s better to bring mattresses, so we stuffed two in our car and took a pack of water bottles. I didn’t know what to do. There were fires everywhere following the airstrikes, and I heard a huge blast. We heard, felt and saw the strikes. Our building was shaking. There was a huge blast in a place with no advance warning for evacuation.

    Surrounded by fire and smoke, I was repeating to myself, “all we need is a plan and to take action, a plan and take action; do not wait here.” We just left the place as fast as we could. I don’t know what happened to my own house, or the new house. We kept calling around and drove for a couple of hours before we figured out where to go. Around 5 a.m, we found a place on the other side of the mountains.

    We were very lucky that we left when we did because the fires after the airstrikes were still raging where we had been. We just needed a place to rest a little, to see where to go next, and we still haven’t slept. Some people are still in cars. Now we’re watching the news and shocking footage of what is happening. I know that my colleagues, MSF teams, are in the field, supplying water by trucks to shelters and schools in Beirut and Mount Lebanon, where displaced families are staying. Some people are lying down on the sidewalks. MSF managed to provide 86,000 liters of water in 24 hours, and is also distributing kits containing basic hygiene and relief items, as well as mattresses to the displaced people. Our mental health teams are on the streets providing psychological first aid to people who are traumatized and to people seeking refuge in schools. I am used to being a humanitarian worker, but now I am also a person displaced by air strikes in my own country. We are in a safe place, for now.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How Lebanon’s national identity is exploited to justify violence against it

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Rayyan Dabbous, PhD student, Centre for Comparative Literature, University of Toronto

    The Lebanese armed group Hezbollah confirmed on Sept. 28 that its leader, Hassan Nasrallah, had been killed in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut a day earlier. Nasrallah is the highest-ranking Hezbollah leader to have been killed since Israel began targeting the group’s leadership.

    Several Hezbollah commanders, and hundreds of Lebanese civilians, have been killed in Israeli attacks in recent weeks. On Sept. 20, Israel launched its heaviest aerial bombing on Lebanon since 2006, killing hundreds of civilians. The attack followed the Sept. 17 coordinated explosions of hand-held wireless pagers allegedly carried by members of Hezbollah (but still also carried by many medical professionals). That assault maimed thousands of Lebanese people.

    Israel says the violent strikes were necessary to preemptively thwart Hezbollah from launching rockets into northern Israel. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the Lebanese population: “Israel’s war is not with you, it’s with Hezbollah,” which has long “been using you as human shields.”

    The Telegraph in the United Kingdom proclaimed Israel’s war against Hezbollah as a brave move on behalf of the “West” to “uphold civilization.” Other news outlets, both western and Israeli, also framed the conflict as one for civilization. They also mentioned religion.

    Wars have always required these types of false dichotomies: Christian and Muslim, civilization and barbarism, West and East.

    Generations of Orientalists from the “West” constructed the “East” as a place with distinct cultural identities and values, and one over which the West must triumph.

    The way East and West has historically been framed in Lebanon can help us understand the way the conflict there is being discussed in the Global North. To do this, I briefly outline three time periods to attempt to shed some light on how this framing can be used to justify violence against the nation.

    1. Premodern times: Caught between two empires

    Lebanon has frequently been a battleground between West and East. For aristocracies and clergies in France and Italy, Lebanon first became part of the East under Byzantium (the eastern half of the Roman empire). Later, Lebanon became part of the Islamic and Ottoman empires. It was not religion that defined these West/East splits but aspirations for wealth, resources, power and hegemony.

    Following the collapse of the Roman Empire, in which modern-day Lebanon was situated, economic and political power remained in Christian hands but was transferred from Rome to Constantinople (modern day Istanbul). After eight major waves of Crusades, notorious for their pillages and “collateral damage” even in Christian cities, Western observers came to regard the East as a “treasure” that had been regained.

    In his seminal book Europe and Islam, first published in French in 1978, pre-eminent Tunisian historian Hichem Djaït showed how Christianity in Europe was, from its inception, a political project aimed to both unite against and catch up to Islamic cultural, scientific and economic advancement.

    The East, Djaït emphasized, was regarded as a deformed West, a “parvenu” and “a primitive newcomer” whose civilization was an aberration in Medieval Christian eyes. They regarded Islam’s prophet Muhammad as an internal traitor rather than an external threat. For example, in Dante’s Inferno Muhammad is punished for contributing to the West/East schism.

    Western interest in the East was also, for Djaït, rooted in an envy for how diverse groups co-existed for centuries in the east but not the west.

    II. Caught within colonial expansion

    Following the defeat of the Ottoman Empire in the First World War, Lebanon came under French rule. By this point, the Ottomans had been regarded as “the Sick Man of Europe” since at least the mid-19th century. Global powers exploited this characterization of Lebanon and were activated to send missionaries, build missionary schools, and revamp ports. The French also intervened with the work of sectarian groups. Therefore, especially in the 1920s, the French led a rapid modernizing of Lebanon, characterized as a trade-off between West and East.

    The Syrian playwright Saadallah Wannous dramatized this trade-off in The Drunken Days in a dialogue between an old Lebanese man in his Eastern headwear, the tarbush, and a young Lebanese woman urging him to wear a Western hat:

    Him: The tarbush is a symbol of religion.

    Her: The hat is a symbol of urbanization.

    Him: The tarbush indicates devotion.

    Her: The hat indicates civilization.

    Lebanese intellectuals at the time were aware of this dangerous equation of West with civilization. Palestinian-Lebanese writer May Ziadeh actively worked in the 1920s and 1930s to dispel the false dichotomy between West and East. She encouraged her students to “learn Western languages without forgetting their own” and she believed that “not a single nation in the world has been able to create itself without the input of others.”

    Ziadeh belonged to a time referred to as the Nahda, or Arab Renaissance, when Arab writers wanted to revive the human flourishing once experienced in the medieval Islamic world. These intellectuals favoured a balanced approach between West and East and recognized the modernity the West ushered as a continuation of Eastern achievements.

    III. 1975-2005: Caught between civil war and 9/11

    Whereas questioning the West/East divide united a previous generation of Lebanese Christians and Muslims, the generations that went through the Lebanese civil war (1975–1990) affirmed that divide.

    Western media capitalized on the newly divided allegiances of Lebanese Christians and framed them as torn in a West/East clash.

    Some Lebanese political leaders also promoted this narrative and appealed to the West for support. Meanwhile, the emergence of Hezbollah after Israel’s 1982 invasion of Lebanon became synonymous with a resistance against the West.

    But this narrative obscures the realities of how and why these divides were created. These divides are created by Lebanese groups, including Hezbollah, as well as the West. They boosted, hindered and created each other. For example, in 2018, western media ignored claims of election fraud in Lebanon and instead sensationalized Hezbollah’s victory.

    In a 1985 piece for the London Review of Books, Edward Said, author of Orientalism, cautioned against seeing Beirut as the Paris of the Middle East and Lebanon as its Switzerland, comparisons popular since the 1960s. Such comparisons have been recently recirculated and mourned by both Israeli and Lebanese media.

    For Said, this representation of Lebanon threatened solidarity movements with Arabs and Palestinians by characterizing it as something fundamentally different from the rest of the Arab world.

    But two years after the end of the Lebanese Civil War, American political scientist Samuel P. Huntington promoted the simplistic logic Said warned against and declared a clash of civilizations. The aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks saw a resurgence of Huntington’s theory. It revived in the West the Medieval Christian view of the East, and a desire to act as crusaders who export human rights and defend the world against terrorists.

    We need to once and for all dispose of the West and the East as a clash of civilizations. Militaries and militias should not have to race to eliminate either side. They should instead realize that their fate is as intertwined as their past, and that only dialogue can solve conflict.

    Rayyan Dabbous 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. How Lebanon’s national identity is exploited to justify violence against it – https://theconversation.com/how-lebanons-national-identity-is-exploited-to-justify-violence-against-it-239697

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: APOSTOLIC JOURNEY – Pope in Belgium: “The mission of the baptized is a gift, not a title of boast”

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Sunday, September 29, 2024

    Vatican Media

    Brussels (Agenzia Fides) – “We all, with Baptism, have received a mission in the Church. But it is a gift, not a title of pride”. The Apostolic Journey of Pope Francis to Belgium, the 46th outside Italy, ends with the Holy Mass at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels. In front of 35 thousand people, and the royal family, the Pontiff presides over the rite of beatification of Anna of Jesus, born Anna de Lobera, of the order of Discalced Carmelites and announces the start of the beatification process of King Baudouin, the monarch who resigned for a few days so as not to sign the pro-abortion law. Greeted by applause and cheers, before donning the sacred vestments, he greets the crowd in the popemobile who acclaims him, blessing the children and dispensing rosaries and caresses. In the homily, delivered in Italian and with several off-the-cuff additions, he reflects on three key words: openness, communion and testimony. Commenting on today’s Gospel episode, which takes place in Capernaum, where the disciples want to prevent a man from casting out demons in the name of the Master, because – they say – “he did not follow us”, Francis states: “They think like this: ‘Whoever does not follow us, whoever is not one of us cannot perform miracles, he has no right to do so’. But Jesus surprises them, as always, and rebukes them, inviting them to go beyond their schemes, not to be ‘scandalized’ by God’s freedom. He tells them: ‘Do not prevent him […] whoever is not against us is for us’. Hence the reflection on the mission of the baptized, which is “a gift”, “not a title of boast”. The community of believers, in fact, the Bishop of Rome emphasizes, “is not a circle of privileged people, it is a family of saved people, and we are not sent to bring the Gospel to the world for our merits, but by the grace of God, by his mercy and by the trust that, beyond all our limitations and sins, He continues to place in us with the love of the Father, seeing in us what we ourselves cannot see. For this reason he calls us, sends us and accompanies us patiently day by day”. “If we want to cooperate, with open and caring love, in the free action of the Spirit without being a scandal, an obstacle to anyone with our presumption and rigidity, we need to carry out our mission with humility, gratitude and joy. We must not resent it, but rather rejoice in the fact that others can do what we do, so that the Kingdom of God may grow and so that we can all find ourselves united, one day, in the arms of the Father,” adds the Pope. “The Word of God is clear: it says that the ‘cry of the poor’ cannot be ignored” or “cancelled”, as if it were “the wrong note in the perfect concert of the world of well-being, nor can they be muffled with some form of superficial welfare”, he then says, reflecting on the second key word, namely “communion”. On the contrary, Francis underlines, they “are the living voice of the Spirit” and “remind us who we are: we are all poor sinners, the first self, and they call us to convert”. Hence the reflection on the third word, “testimony”: “We can take inspiration, in this regard, from the life and work of Anna of Jesus, on the day of her beatification. This woman was among the protagonists, in the Church of her time, of a great reform movement, in the footsteps of a ‘giant of the spirit’, Teresa of Avila”. Finally, recalling the meeting he had the other evening in the Apostolic Nunciature in Brussels with a group of victims of abuse by the Belgian clergy, he states: “I felt their suffering as abused people and I repeat it here: in the Church there is room for everyone, everyone, everyone” but “there is no room for abuse, for covering up abuse”. “I ask the bishops: do not cover up abuse”, adds the Pontiff, whose words are greeted with a long applause from the faithful present. “Evil cannot be hidden, it must be brought out into the open with courage”. Francis asks that abusers be “judged”, “whether they are lay people, priests or bishops”. The victims’ “lament is one that rises to heaven and makes us ashamed”. At the Angelus, prayed at the end of the celebration, the Pontiff’s thoughts go to the Middle East, in particular to Lebanon, shocked by the spread of the conflict: “I continue to follow with pain and with great concern the spread and intensification of the conflict in Lebanon. Lebanon is a message, but at this moment it is a tormented message, and this war has devastating effects on the population: many, too many people continue to die day after day in the Middle East”. “Let us pray for the victims, for their families, let us pray for peace. I ask all parties to immediately cease fire in Lebanon, in Gaza, in the rest of Palestine, in Israel. Let the hostages be released and humanitarian aid be allowed”, the appeal of the Pontiff, who also asks to pray for Ukraine: “Let us not forget the tormented Ukraine”. (FB) (Agenzia Fides 29/9/2024) Share:

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI