Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Minds Together benefits the person experiencing distress, while also supporting the wellbeing and coping skills of carers.
In brief:
The Minds Together online program is now available for those supporting others with mental health concerns.
Minds Together aims to enhance the mental health, wellbeing and coping skills of family, friends and carers.
Minds Together offers practical strategies to support families, friends and carers in their caring role.
Content warning: this article discusses suicide
Supporting someone with mental health concerns isn’t always easy.
Minds Together is a new free online program providing support and advice for carers of someone in distress.
They can access self-paced online support featuring interactive activities, multimedia content, peer support and shared stories and advice from other carers.
The program offers practical strategies, such as how to:
find out more about mental health concerns and suicidal distress
learn new strategies to support family members or friends
strengthen coping and communication skills
reduce stress and worry.
Minds Together was developed by Everymind. It is jointly funded by the ACT and Commonwealth Governments.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police are investigating a fatal helicopter incident that occurred in Gapuwiyak this afternoon.
Around 2:00pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a helicopter carrying two occupants had made an emergency landing at the Lake Evella airstrip after the aircraft struck a bird. The impact allegedly caused the bird to fatally strike a 44-year-old male passenger.
The pilot was able to land the aircraft safely and was uninjured.
Police and St John Ambulance attended the scene; however, the 44-year-old male was declared deceased.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
NT WorkSafe and the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) have been notified.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
SHANGHAI, July 14 (Xinhua) — The SCO Think Tank Forum 2025, themed “Promoting Sustainable Development Guided by the Shanghai Spirit,” was held from Saturday to Sunday at the SCO Center for International Legal Training and Cooperation (China) based at the Shanghai University of Political Science and Law.
Nearly 100 experts and scholars from leading universities and think tanks in China and abroad attended the forum. They held in-depth exchanges of views on the issues of “SCO and the Transformation of the Global Governance System,” “SCO’s Own Construction and Reform,” “Striving for Sustainable Common Security,” “Inclusiveness, Win-Win, Mutually Beneficial Cooperation, and Striving for Common Prosperity,” “Searching for Universal Values in the Diversity of Civilizations,” and “Development Prospects for the SCO.”
Rector of Shanghai University of Political Science and Law, Director of the Office of the Center for International Legal Training and Cooperation of the SCO /China/ Liu Xiaohong noted that over the past 20 years, guided by the “Shanghai Spirit”, the SCO has achieved significant success in regional security, economic cooperation and humanitarian exchanges and serves as an important example of a new type of regional cooperation mechanism. She also expressed hope that the forum will give new impetus to regional cooperation.
According to Sun Zhuangzhi, Director of the Institute of Russia, Eastern Europe and Central Asia at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), the launch of the “SCO Year of Sustainable Development” within the framework of China’s rotating chairmanship of the SCO will contribute to the development of global governance in a more just and rational direction and will make the SCO’s contribution to promoting peace and development throughout the world.
Speaking at the event, former SCO Secretary-General Vladimir Norov suggested that SCO think tanks focus on priority tasks, including aligning national strategies for transport infrastructure development, developing a unified mechanism for monitoring carbon emissions with the involvement of national environmental agencies, and expanding research into SCO humanitarian diplomacy, which, he said, not only reflect the realities of the current geopolitical and economic context, but also outline a concrete agenda that can transform the SCO from a platform of declarations into a mechanism for practical solutions.
The forum was jointly organized by the Shanghai University of Political Science and Law, the SCO Center for International Legal Training and Cooperation (China), the China Institute of International Studies (CIIS) and the China Center for SCO Studies. -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
A 59-year-old man was sentenced to 10 months’ imprisonment at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts on July 10 for importing duty-not-paid cigarettes, in contravention of the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (DCO).
On July 5, 2024, Hong Kong Customs and the Hong Kong Police Force mounted joint anti-smuggling operations at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) Hong Kong Port. Through risk assessment and intelligence analysis, officers of Customs and Police intercepted an inbound private car at the HZMB Hong Kong Port on that day. Upon inspection, Customs officers seized a total of 123 000 sticks of duty-not-paid cigarettes at the driver’s seat, front and rear passenger seats and the boot of the vehicle. The 59-year-old male driver was subsequently arrested, and the private car was also seized. The estimated market value of the cigarettes seized in the case was about $550,000, and the duty potential was about $410,000.
Customs welcomes the sentence. The custodial sentence has imposed a considerable deterrent effect and reflects the seriousness of the offences.
Customs reminds members of the public that under the DCO, tobacco products are dutiable goods to which the DCO applies. Any person who imports, deals with, possesses, sells or buys illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.
Customs will continue to combat cross-boundary smuggling activities with firm enforcement action.
Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
A 59-year-old man was sentenced to 10 months’ imprisonment at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts on July 10 for importing duty-not-paid cigarettes, in contravention of the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (DCO).
On July 5, 2024, Hong Kong Customs and the Hong Kong Police Force mounted joint anti-smuggling operations at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) Hong Kong Port. Through risk assessment and intelligence analysis, officers of Customs and Police intercepted an inbound private car at the HZMB Hong Kong Port on that day. Upon inspection, Customs officers seized a total of 123 000 sticks of duty-not-paid cigarettes at the driver’s seat, front and rear passenger seats and the boot of the vehicle. The 59-year-old male driver was subsequently arrested, and the private car was also seized. The estimated market value of the cigarettes seized in the case was about $550,000, and the duty potential was about $410,000.
Customs welcomes the sentence. The custodial sentence has imposed a considerable deterrent effect and reflects the seriousness of the offences.
Customs reminds members of the public that under the DCO, tobacco products are dutiable goods to which the DCO applies. Any person who imports, deals with, possesses, sells or buys illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.
Customs will continue to combat cross-boundary smuggling activities with firm enforcement action.
Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Mr Ian Cameron, and the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr Xola Nqola, have noted the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa to establish a Commission of Inquiry on allegations made by the SAPS KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
“The announcement of the establishment of a commission will surely enable a process to root out corruption from the SAPS. It is important that the establishment of the commission is not merely cosmetic but facilitates greater reflection and steps to rejuvenate the entire criminal Justice system,” said Mr Ian Cameron.
“The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) as well as the Judiciary and Magistracy are pillars of the criminal justice system and constitutional rule of law. They are the guardians of justice and accountability, and we cannot have a question mark hanging over them, causing the public to lose confidence in our justice system,” said Mr Xola Nqola.
While the announcement is welcomed, both Chairpersons highlighted that the process announced by the President does not affect the parliamentary process. “The directive from the office of the Speaker of the National Assembly was clear, and the committees will endeavour to urgently implement the directive. Also, the Constitution mandates the national legislature to ensure effective oversight and accountability over the executive. It is in this context that the parliamentary process continues, especially because the credibility of the entire criminal justice system is at stake,” Mr Nqola said.
Both Chairpersons underscored the importance of having an effective and efficient justice system that is capable of ensuring the safety and security of everyone. Despite the decisions made by the President, the perception of a systematic breakdown remains, and the parliamentary process might assist in ensuring openness and accountability.
As a result, the committees will hold an initial meeting later this week to consider a way forward and report to the National Assembly as guided by the Speaker.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
International Monetary Fund. Monetary and Capital Markets Department “France: Financial System Stability Assessment”, IMF Staff Country Reports 2025, 180 (2025), accessed July 14, 2025, https://doi.org/10.5089/9798229017428.002
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Summary
The French financial system has proven resilient to the shocks of the last five years but faces headwinds from domestic and external policy uncertainty and high fiscal consolidation needs. Bank-insurance conglomerates that include four Global Systemically Important Banks dominate the financial landscape, and financial markets have become increasingly complex in the post-Brexit environment. Banks’ capital and liquidity buffers remain high, but with low profitability versus peers.
The French economy has demonstrated resilience in 2024 despite high uncertainty, bolstered by the summer Olympics in Paris. The disinflationary process is progressing well, and the labor market remains robust. However, high and rising public debt, combined with significant domestic and external headwinds to the recovery, highlights the urgent need to strengthen public finances and pursue structural reforms to foster sustainable growth. While the political compromise on the 2025 budget reached in February marked a positive step forward, it will be essential for the authorities to continue building consensus to further advance fiscal and structural reforms.
Keywords:Aging,Anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT),Fiscal consolidation,Labor markets,Pension spending,Productivity,Structural reforms
The ongoing Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via the Nathu La route is drawing widespread praise from pilgrims and officials alike, with many describing the journey as both spiritually uplifting and exceptionally well-managed. Pilgrims returning from the sacred pilgrimage have expressed deep gratitude for the arrangements made by Indian authorities, particularly the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC).
Rajendra Chettri, Chief Executive Officer of STDC, lauded the success of this year’s Yatra, noting the overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants. According to Chettri, the fourth batch of pilgrims has successfully completed the Yatra and is currently en route to Lhasa, while the fifth batch is stationed at Sherathang, preparing to cross into Tibet. Chettri is scheduled to visit Nathu La on Monday to personally oversee arrangements for the group’s movement into the Tibetan region.
“The Yatris are extremely happy with the facilities provided by STDC,” he said. “At any given time, two batches are in the Tibetan region—one entering and one returning.” Most of the batches comprise 45 to 48 pilgrims and are accompanied by two Liaison Officers deputed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The final batch is expected to depart on August 7, cross into Tibet by August 12, and return by August 23. All pilgrims are scheduled to head home by August 24.
Chettri highlighted the improvements made since the last Yatra in 2019, especially in hygiene and accommodation. He also acknowledged the cooperation of Chinese authorities, calling their support “welcoming and encouraging.”
Pilgrims have described the Yatra as deeply emotional and spiritually fulfilling. A female pilgrim, who undertook the journey with her husband, called it a divine experience. “It is by the grace of God that we were chosen for this Yatra. Everything was managed so well that we never felt any discomfort. The welcome was overwhelming—Yogi ji himself greeted us and offered gifts, marking a spiritual start to our journey.”
Reflecting on her visit to Mount Kailash, she added, “Even now, I get goosebumps recalling the moment. Our journey was not only smooth but truly divine. I am grateful to everyone—the Indian and Chinese authorities and the countless people working behind the scenes.”
Ravi Verma, a pilgrim from Pune, described the experience as both physically and spiritually uplifting. “Despite the long trek and high altitude, I didn’t feel any of my usual knee or muscle pains. That itself felt miraculous.” He recounted his trek through Yamadwar, Deraphuk, and Dolma Pass—one of the most physically demanding segments of the Yatra. “Even Dolma Pass, with its low oxygen and steep climb, felt safe and manageable. Collecting water from Gaurikund was a special moment.”
Verma also shared a personal connection to the Yatra, revealing that his parents had completed the journey on foot in 1997, covering nearly 500 kilometres. “Their dedication inspired me. Though I walked only 40 kilometres, the experience was equally divine. I believe all my success in life is a blessing from Mount Kailash.”
Devendra Tiwari, a pilgrim from Bhopal, echoed similar sentiments. He praised the discipline among fellow pilgrims and credited the Government of India, MEA, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and STDC for their seamless coordination. “Not even rain or clouds came in our way. We completed darshan and puja peacefully. I truly feel blessed.”
A journalist who was on the Rainbow Warrior voyage to Rongelap last night condemned France for its “callous” attack of an environmental ship, saying “we haven’t forgotten, or forgiven this outrage”.
David Robie, the author of Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the Rainbow Warrior, said at the launch that the consequences of almost 300 US and French nuclear tests – many of them “dirty bombs” — were still impacting on indigenous Pacific peoples 40 years after the bombing of the ship.
French saboteurs had killed “our shipmate Fernando Pereira” on 10 July 1985 in what the New Zealand prime minister at the time, David Lange, called a “sordid act of international state-backed terrorism”.
Although relations with France had perhaps mellowed over time, four decades ago there was a lot of hostility towards the country, Dr Robie said.
“And that act of mindless sabotage still rankles very deeply in our psyche,” he said at the launch in Auckland Central’s Ellen Melville Centre on the anniversary of July 10.
About 100 people gathered in the centre’s Pioneer Women’s Hall for the book launch as Dr Robie reflected on the case of state terrorism after Greenpeace earlier in the day held a memorial ceremony on board Rainbow Warrior III.
“One of the celebrated French newspapers, Le Monde, played a critical role in the investigation into the Rainbow Warrior affair — what I brand as ‘Blundergate’, in view of all the follies of the bumbling DGSE spy team,” he said.
Plantu cartoon “And one of the cartoons in that newspaper, by Plantu, who is a sort of French equivalent to Michael Leunig, caught my eye.
“You will notice it in the background slide show behind me. It shows François Mitterrand, the president of the French republic at the time, dressed in a frogman’s wetsuit lecturing to school children during a history lesson.
“President Mitterrand says, in French, ‘At that time, only presidents had the right to carry out terrorism!’
Tahitian advocate Ena Manurevia . . . the background Plantu cartoon is the one mentioned by the author. Image: Asia Pacific Report
He noticed that in the Mitterrand cartoon there was a “classmate” sitting in the back of the room with a moustache. This was none other than Edwy Plenel, the police reporter for Le Monde at the time, who scooped the world with hard evidence of Mitterrand and the French government’s role at the highest level in the Rainbow Warrior sabotage.
Dr Robie said that Plenel now published the investigative website Mediapart, which had played a key role in 2015 revealing the identity of the bomber that night, “the man who had planted the limpet mines on the Rainbow Warrior — sinking a peace and environmental ship, and killing Fernando Pereira.”
Jean-Luc Kister, a retired French colonel and DGSE secret agent, had confessed to his role and “apologised”, claiming the sabotage operation was “disproportionate and a mistake”.
“Was he sincere? Was it a genuine attempt to come to terms with his conscience. Who knows?” Dr Robie said, adding that he was unconvinced.
Hilari Anderson (right on stage), one of the speakers, with Del Abcede and MC Antony Phillips (obscured) . . . the background image shows Helen Clark meeting Fernando Pereira’s daughter Marelle in 2005. Image: Greenpeace
French perspective Dr Robie said he had asked Plenel for his reflections from a French perspective 40 years on. Plenel cited three main take ways.
“First, the vital necessity of independent journalism. Independent of all powers, whether state, economic or ideological. Journalism that serves the public interest, the right to know, and factual truths.
“Impactful journalism whose revelations restore confidence in democracy, in the possibility of improving it, and in the usefulness of counterbalancing powers, particularly journalism.”
Secondly, this attack had been carried out by France in an “allied country”, New Zealand, against a civil society organisation. This demonstrated that “the thirst for power is a downfall that leads nations astray when they succumb to it.
“Nuclear weapons epitomise this madness, this catastrophe of power.”
Finally, Plenel expressed the “infinite sadness” for a French citizen that after his revelations in Le Monde — which led to the resignations of the defence minister and the head of the secret services — nothing else happened.
“Nothing at all. No parliamentary inquiry, no questioning of François Mitterrand about his responsibility, no institutional reform of the absolute power of the president in a French republic that is, in reality, an elective monarchy.”
‘Elective monarchy’ trend Dr Robie compared the French outcome with the rapid trend in US today, “a president who thinks he is a monarch, a king – another elective monarchy.”
He also bemoaned that “catastrophe of power” that “reigns everywhere today – from the horrendous Israeli genocide in Gaza to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, from Trump to Putin to Netanyahu, and so many others.”
The continuous Gaza massacres were a shameful indictment of the West that had allowed it to happen for more than 21 months.
Dr Robie thanked many collaborators for their help and support, including drama teacher Hilari Anderson, an original crew member of the Rainbow Warrior, and photographer John Miller, “who have been with me all the way on this waka journey”.
He thanked his wife, Del, and family members for their unstinting “patience and support”, and also publisher Tony Murrow of Little Island Press.
Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the Rainbow Warrior . . . published 10 July 2025. Image: David Robie/Little Island Press
Launching the book, Greenpeace Aotearoa programme director Niamh O’Flynn said one thing that had stood out for her was how the legacy of the Rainbow Warrior had continued despite the attempt by the French government to shut it down 40 years ago.
“We said then that ‘you can’t sink a rainbow’, and we went on to prove it.
“When the Rainbow Warrior was bombed in Auckland harbour, it was getting ready to set sail to Moruroa Atoll, to enter the test exclusion zone and confront French nuclear testing head-on.”
So threatened The French government had felt so threatened by that action that it had engaged in a state-sanctioned terror attack to prevent the mission from going ahead.
“But we rebuilt, and the Rainbow Warrior II carried on with that mission, travelling to Moruroa three times before the French finally stopped nuclear testing in the Pacific.
“That spirit and tenacity is what makes Greenpeace and what makes the Rainbow Warrior so special to everyone who has sailed on her,” she said.
“It was the final voyage of the Rainbow Warrior to Rongelap before the bombing that is the focus of David Robie’s book, and in many ways, it was an incredibly unique experience for Greenpeace — not just here in Aotearoa, but internationally.
“And of course David was a key part in that.”
O’Flynn said that as someone who had not even been born yet when the Rainbow Warrior was bombed, “I am so grateful that the generation of nuclear-free activists took the time to pass on their knowledge and to build our organisation into what it is today.
“Just as David has by writing down his story and leaving us with such a rich legacy.”
Greenpeace Aotearoa programme director Niamh O’Flynn . . . “That spirit and tenacity is what makes Greenpeace and what makes the Rainbow Warrior so special to everyone who has sailed on her.” Image: APR
Other speakers Among other speakers at the book launch were teacher Hilari Anderson, publisher Tony Murrow of Little Island Press, Ena Manuireva, a Mangarevian scholar and cultural adviser, and MC Antony Phillips of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.
Anderson spoke of the Warrior’s early campaigns and acknowledged the crews of 1978 and 1985.
“I have been reflecting what these first and last crews of the original Rainbow Warrior had in common, realising that both gave their collective, mostly youthful energy — to transformation.
“This has involved the bonding of crews by working hands-on together. Touching surfaces, by hammer and paint, created a physical connection to this beloved boat.”
She paid special tribute to two powerful women, Denise Bell, who tracked down the marine research vessel in Aberdeen that became the Rainbow Warrior, and the indomitable Susi Newborn, who “contributed to naming the ship and mustering a crew”.
Manuireva spoke about his nuclear colonial experience and that of his family as natives of Mangareva atoll, about 400 km from Muroroa atoll, where France conducted most of its 30 years of tests ending in 1995.
He also spoke of Tahitian leader Oscar Temaru’s pioneering role in the Nuclear-Free and Independent Pacific (NFIP) movement, and played haunting Tahitian songs on his guitar.
A journalist who was on the Rainbow Warrior voyage to Rongelap last night condemned France for its “callous” attack of an environmental ship, saying “we haven’t forgotten, or forgiven this outrage”.
David Robie, the author of Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the Rainbow Warrior, said at the launch that the consequences of almost 300 US and French nuclear tests – many of them “dirty bombs” — were still impacting on indigenous Pacific peoples 40 years after the bombing of the ship.
French saboteurs had killed “our shipmate Fernando Pereira” on 10 July 1985 in what the New Zealand prime minister at the time, David Lange, called a “sordid act of international state-backed terrorism”.
Although relations with France had perhaps mellowed over time, four decades ago there was a lot of hostility towards the country, Dr Robie said.
“And that act of mindless sabotage still rankles very deeply in our psyche,” he said at the launch in Auckland Central’s Ellen Melville Centre on the anniversary of July 10.
About 100 people gathered in the centre’s Pioneer Women’s Hall for the book launch as Dr Robie reflected on the case of state terrorism after Greenpeace earlier in the day held a memorial ceremony on board Rainbow Warrior III.
“One of the celebrated French newspapers, Le Monde, played a critical role in the investigation into the Rainbow Warrior affair — what I brand as ‘Blundergate’, in view of all the follies of the bumbling DGSE spy team,” he said.
Plantu cartoon “And one of the cartoons in that newspaper, by Plantu, who is a sort of French equivalent to Michael Leunig, caught my eye.
“You will notice it in the background slide show behind me. It shows François Mitterrand, the president of the French republic at the time, dressed in a frogman’s wetsuit lecturing to school children during a history lesson.
“President Mitterrand says, in French, ‘At that time, only presidents had the right to carry out terrorism!’
Tahitian advocate Ena Manurevia . . . the background Plantu cartoon is the one mentioned by the author. Image: Asia Pacific Report
He noticed that in the Mitterrand cartoon there was a “classmate” sitting in the back of the room with a moustache. This was none other than Edwy Plenel, the police reporter for Le Monde at the time, who scooped the world with hard evidence of Mitterrand and the French government’s role at the highest level in the Rainbow Warrior sabotage.
Dr Robie said that Plenel now published the investigative website Mediapart, which had played a key role in 2015 revealing the identity of the bomber that night, “the man who had planted the limpet mines on the Rainbow Warrior — sinking a peace and environmental ship, and killing Fernando Pereira.”
Jean-Luc Kister, a retired French colonel and DGSE secret agent, had confessed to his role and “apologised”, claiming the sabotage operation was “disproportionate and a mistake”.
“Was he sincere? Was it a genuine attempt to come to terms with his conscience. Who knows?” Dr Robie said, adding that he was unconvinced.
Hilari Anderson (right on stage), one of the speakers, with Del Abcede and MC Antony Phillips (obscured) . . . the background image shows Helen Clark meeting Fernando Pereira’s daughter Marelle in 2005. Image: Greenpeace
French perspective Dr Robie said he had asked Plenel for his reflections from a French perspective 40 years on. Plenel cited three main take ways.
“First, the vital necessity of independent journalism. Independent of all powers, whether state, economic or ideological. Journalism that serves the public interest, the right to know, and factual truths.
“Impactful journalism whose revelations restore confidence in democracy, in the possibility of improving it, and in the usefulness of counterbalancing powers, particularly journalism.”
Secondly, this attack had been carried out by France in an “allied country”, New Zealand, against a civil society organisation. This demonstrated that “the thirst for power is a downfall that leads nations astray when they succumb to it.
“Nuclear weapons epitomise this madness, this catastrophe of power.”
Finally, Plenel expressed the “infinite sadness” for a French citizen that after his revelations in Le Monde — which led to the resignations of the defence minister and the head of the secret services — nothing else happened.
“Nothing at all. No parliamentary inquiry, no questioning of François Mitterrand about his responsibility, no institutional reform of the absolute power of the president in a French republic that is, in reality, an elective monarchy.”
‘Elective monarchy’ trend Dr Robie compared the French outcome with the rapid trend in US today, “a president who thinks he is a monarch, a king – another elective monarchy.”
He also bemoaned that “catastrophe of power” that “reigns everywhere today – from the horrendous Israeli genocide in Gaza to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, from Trump to Putin to Netanyahu, and so many others.”
The continuous Gaza massacres were a shameful indictment of the West that had allowed it to happen for more than 21 months.
Dr Robie thanked many collaborators for their help and support, including drama teacher Hilari Anderson, an original crew member of the Rainbow Warrior, and photographer John Miller, “who have been with me all the way on this waka journey”.
He thanked his wife, Del, and family members for their unstinting “patience and support”, and also publisher Tony Murrow of Little Island Press.
Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the Rainbow Warrior . . . published 10 July 2025. Image: David Robie/Little Island Press
Launching the book, Greenpeace Aotearoa programme director Niamh O’Flynn said one thing that had stood out for her was how the legacy of the Rainbow Warrior had continued despite the attempt by the French government to shut it down 40 years ago.
“We said then that ‘you can’t sink a rainbow’, and we went on to prove it.
“When the Rainbow Warrior was bombed in Auckland harbour, it was getting ready to set sail to Moruroa Atoll, to enter the test exclusion zone and confront French nuclear testing head-on.”
So threatened The French government had felt so threatened by that action that it had engaged in a state-sanctioned terror attack to prevent the mission from going ahead.
“But we rebuilt, and the Rainbow Warrior II carried on with that mission, travelling to Moruroa three times before the French finally stopped nuclear testing in the Pacific.
“That spirit and tenacity is what makes Greenpeace and what makes the Rainbow Warrior so special to everyone who has sailed on her,” she said.
“It was the final voyage of the Rainbow Warrior to Rongelap before the bombing that is the focus of David Robie’s book, and in many ways, it was an incredibly unique experience for Greenpeace — not just here in Aotearoa, but internationally.
“And of course David was a key part in that.”
O’Flynn said that as someone who had not even been born yet when the Rainbow Warrior was bombed, “I am so grateful that the generation of nuclear-free activists took the time to pass on their knowledge and to build our organisation into what it is today.
“Just as David has by writing down his story and leaving us with such a rich legacy.”
Greenpeace Aotearoa programme director Niamh O’Flynn . . . “That spirit and tenacity is what makes Greenpeace and what makes the Rainbow Warrior so special to everyone who has sailed on her.” Image: APR
Other speakers Among other speakers at the book launch were teacher Hilari Anderson, publisher Tony Murrow of Little Island Press, Ena Manuireva, a Mangarevian scholar and cultural adviser, and MC Antony Phillips of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.
Anderson spoke of the Warrior’s early campaigns and acknowledged the crews of 1978 and 1985.
“I have been reflecting what these first and last crews of the original Rainbow Warrior had in common, realising that both gave their collective, mostly youthful energy — to transformation.
“This has involved the bonding of crews by working hands-on together. Touching surfaces, by hammer and paint, created a physical connection to this beloved boat.”
She paid special tribute to two powerful women, Denise Bell, who tracked down the marine research vessel in Aberdeen that became the Rainbow Warrior, and the indomitable Susi Newborn, who “contributed to naming the ship and mustering a crew”.
Manuireva spoke about his nuclear colonial experience and that of his family as natives of Mangareva atoll, about 400 km from Muroroa atoll, where France conducted most of its 30 years of tests ending in 1995.
He also spoke of Tahitian leader Oscar Temaru’s pioneering role in the Nuclear-Free and Independent Pacific (NFIP) movement, and played haunting Tahitian songs on his guitar.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
NEW YORK, July 13 (Xinhua) — Two women, aged 72 and 32, were killed in a shooting in the U.S. state of Kentucky on Sunday, officials said.
The incident occurred around 11:35 a.m. ET near Blue Grass Airport, where a police officer pulled over a vehicle after receiving a signal to read the license plates. The suspect, who was in the vehicle, shot the officer, stole another car and fled the scene before driving to Richmond Road Baptist Church, where he killed two women, Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Withers said at a news conference.
The fleeing suspect wounded two people before being shot by three police officers who arrived at the scene and declared dead. The injured officer is in stable condition.
In a post on social media platform X, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear called the incident a “senseless act of violence” and thanked local police for their prompt response. –0–
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
A gunman killed two women at a church in Kentucky and shot and wounded a state trooper outside an airport on Sunday before police were able to shoot him to death, authorities said.
The women were killed at the Richmond Road Baptist Church in Lexington. Two men were also wounded there, including one who was in critical condition, Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Weathers told an afternoon press conference.
Authorities did not provide the suspect’s name or age.
“There are days like today that are extremely difficult,” Weathers said. “Sometimes things happen, you just don’t have a reason why.”
The suspect fired at the trooper after being pulled over near Blue Grass Airport at about 11:30 a.m. in Fayette County, Weathers said. The shooting happened on a road that rings the airport but was not connected to its operations, police said.
The trooper was being treated at a nearby hospital and was in stable condition.
The suspect then carjacked a vehicle about 10 miles (16 km) from the airport and fled to Richmond Road Baptist Church, where the individual began firing at people on the church grounds.
Police tracked the location of the carjacked vehicle to the church.
The police chief did not offer any motive for the shootings, but said there was some indication that the suspect may have known some of the people at the church.
Weathers said Lexington police would conduct an internal review of the shooting, as required by department policies.
The Blue Grass Airport posted on X at 1 p.m. ET (1700 GMT) that there was a law enforcement investigation affecting a portion of an airport road, but that all flights and operations were now proceeding normally.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force is investigating multiple aggravated burglaries that occurred in Alice Springs overnight.
Around 2am, police received reports that two male youths unlawfully entered a residence on Ptilotus Crescent in Sadadeen. The offenders allegedly gained entry through the front window, before stealing personal items from a 66-year-old male victim. They fled the scene in the victim’s white Holden Commodore sedan with NT registration CB25VV.
At 2:15am, police were notified of an unlawful entry at a residence in Chewings Street in East Side. The victims reportedly woke to an offender in their bedroom, who subsequently fled the scene with a second offender who was in the backyard. It is unknown if any items were stolen at this stage.
Around 2:30am, police received reports that two male youth offenders unlawfully entered a residence on Raggatt Street in East Side. The offenders were disturbed by the four victims who were home at the time. A male victim followed the offenders outside and observed them entering his vehicle, before allegedly challenging him and throwing rocks at him. He retreated inside the residence and the offenders fled in his silver Ford Territory with NT registration CG03EJ.
Police are investigating if the incidents are linked, and the offenders and stolen motor vehicles remain outstanding at this time.
Strike Force Viper have carriage of the investigation and urge anyone with information, including CCTV footage or dash cam footage, to contact police on 131 444. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
A 64-year-old hiker has been rescued from near Ellery Creek after NT police received notification from a satellite distress alerting device yesterday evening.
Around 7:15pm, the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) contacted the Northern Territory Police Force (NTPF) after it received a distress message from near Ellery Creek. The 64-year-old man had suffered a medical incident while hiking in a group of experienced bushwalkers about 12km north of Ellery Big Hole.
The group had established camp and requested urgent medical assistance and extraction of the man.
The Search and Rescue Section (SRS) was deployed and established a recovery plan. The group was able to stay in contact with emergency service personnel via satellite messaging throughout the evening.
The recovery team, consisting of NTPF, St John Ambulance, and Parks and Wildlife Rangers accessed the location via 4WD and a 2km hike, and reached the victim around 2am.
He was extracted via stretcher and was conveyed to Alice Springs Hospital in a stable condition.
SRS Sergeant Karl von Minden said, “Being able to communicate with the group throughout the rescue operation was crucial to the successful recovery, and I commend them for being adequately prepared for their hike.
“I also want to acknowledge and thank our police members, St John Ambulance personnel, and the rangers involved for their professionalism in executing a safe rescue in very cold conditions overnight.
“The positive outcome of this rescue is testament to all parties, and a timely reminder to anyone thinking of exploring the Territory to ensure you are travelling with enough food and water, and are equipped with a PLB, EPIRB, or satellite communication device for those unforeseeable circumstance.”
On the first Monday of the holy month of Shravan, also known as Sawan, a spiritual wave swept across Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi as lakhs of devotees gathered at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to perform ‘Jalabhishek’ and offer prayers.
The sacred city of Varanasi echoed with chants of “Har Har Mahadev” as the Mangala Aarti and elaborate floral decorations marked the first Monday of Sawan.
Devotees began queuing outside the temple late on Sunday night, with many waiting seven to eight hours for the temple doors to open. As the gates opened, the entire city resonated with spiritual fervor, and chants filled the morning air.
Speaking about the arrangements, Police Commissioner Mohit Agrawal said, “We are fully prepared. All senior officers are present on-site. Complete barricading has been done. Devotees are having darshan in a well-managed and systematic manner.”
To ensure safety and smooth management, a massive security deployment was in place. The police commissionerate had stationed six Quick Response Teams (QRTs), three drone units, mounted police, and tourist police at key locations, including Godowlia Chowk, the Ganga Ghats, and the temple premises.
As part of the warm welcome, officials greeted pilgrims with a shower of flower petals, creating a deeply moving and sacred atmosphere.
A devotee expressed their joy, saying, “The arrangements are excellent, and we had a wonderful darshan by the grace of Mahadev.”
DCP (Crime) Sarvan T. stated, “Today is the first Monday of the holy month of Sawan. Keeping this in mind, an adequate police force has been deployed to ensure the safety and security of the devotees.”
The City has marked the official handover of Lot 211 Quinns Road, Mindarie for the development of Dunes Beach Resort, an ecotourism style resort with an accommodation, café and event space.
Mayor Linda Aitken said she was pleased to mark the major milestone and officially hand the site over to Eco Tourism Pty Ltd.
“The development of the Dunes Beach Resort will generate employment opportunities for our residents, boost the local economy and assist with the development of our City as a sustainable tourism destination,” she said.
“It will also provide residents with access to a significant area of lawn space, a sit-down café and kiosk area, public bike racks, improved beach access and picnic tables.
“This site is incredibly important to our residents and I can’t wait to see this project progress as the site is developed into a space that will benefit both the Quinns community and the wider City.
“I look forward to visiting Dunes Beach Resort in the not-too-distant future.”
Director Eco Tourism Pty Ltd Russell Percival said he was excited to be moving forward with the project and to be building something for both the local community and tourists to enjoy.
“After three and a half years, it is great to see our vision and dream start to evolve and we look forward to providing an amazing resort and facilities for everyone to enjoy,” he said.
“We thank the City of Wanneroo for their help and assistance along the way, and we are very excited that the first version of our Australia-wide concept is starting in Perth.”
Amarnath Yatra: Over Two Lakh Devotees Offer Prayers, Fresh Batch of 6,143 Leaves for Kashmir
Over the last 11 days, since it began on July 3, more than two lakh pilgrims have undertaken the ongoing Amarnath Yatra. Another batch of 6,143 pilgrims departed from Jammu for Kashmir on Monday.
Officials stated, “Another batch of 6,143 Yatris left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in two escorted convoys for the Valley today. The first escorted convoy of 100 vehicles carrying 2,215 Yatris left at 3:30 a.m. for the Baltal base camp, while the second escorted convoy of 135 vehicles carrying 3,928 Yatris left at 4 a.m. for the Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp.”
On Sunday, nine yatris sustained injuries when four vehicles in their escorted convoy collided in the Kulgam district on the Jammu-Srinagar highway. The injured were shifted to the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital in Anantnag town, where doctors described their condition as stable.
The Bhumi Pujan of ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was performed at Pahalgam on Thursday. The Chhari Mubarak was taken to Pahalgam by a group of sadhus, led by its sole custodian, Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, from its seat at the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar. In Pahalgam, the Chhari Mubarak was taken to the Gauri Shankar temple, where the Bhumi Pujan was held. The Chhari Mubarak will reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, marking the official conclusion of the Yatra.
Authorities have made extensive multi-tier security arrangements for this year’s Amarnath Yatra. These measures come in the wake of the cowardly attack on April 22, in which Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 civilians after segregating them based on their faith in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam.
An additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have been brought in to augment the existing strength of the Army, Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), and the local police.
The Army has rolled out ‘Operation SHIVA 2025’, deploying more than 8,500 troops alongside advanced surveillance and combat technology. As part of this extensive deployment, a dedicated counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) grid featuring over 50 C-UAS and EW (Electronic Warfare) systems has been positioned to counter drone-based threats.
“Live surveillance via UAVs (drones) and PTZ camera feeds is actively monitoring yatra convoys and the holy cave. Engineer task forces have been mobilized for infrastructure tasks like bridge laying, track widening, and landslide mitigation. The operation also includes over 150 doctors and paramedics, two Advanced Dressing Stations, nine Medical Aid Posts, a 100-bed hospital, and 26 oxygen booths backed by 2 lakh litres of oxygen. Signal companies, EME technical detachments, and Bomb Detection & Disposal Squads have also been deployed,” the Army stated.
All transit camps en route to the two base camps and the entire route from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu to the cave shrine are secured by security forces.
This year, the Yatra started on July 3 and will conclude after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.
Yatris approach the holy cave shrine, situated 3,888 meters above sea level in the Kashmir Himalayas, from either the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route. Those using the Pahalgam route pass through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni to reach the cave shrine, covering a distance of 46 km on foot. This trek takes a pilgrim four days to complete. Those using the shorter Baltal route have to trek 14 km to reach the cave shrine and can return to the base camp the same day after performing the Yatra.
No helicopter services are available to Yatris this year due to security reasons.
The cave shrine houses an ice stalagmite structure that wanes and waxes with the phases of the moon. Devotees believe that the ice stalagmite structure symbolizes the mythical powers of Lord Shiva. The Amarnath Yatra is one of the holiest pilgrimages for Hindu devotees, as legend says Lord Shiva narrated the secrets of eternal life and immortality to Mata Parvati inside this cave.
On the first Monday of the holy month of Shravan, also known as Sawan, a spiritual wave swept across Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi as lakhs of devotees gathered at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to perform ‘Jalabhishek’ and offer prayers.
The sacred city of Varanasi echoed with chants of “Har Har Mahadev” as the Mangala Aarti and elaborate floral decorations marked the first Monday of Sawan.
Devotees began queuing outside the temple late on Sunday night, with many waiting seven to eight hours for the temple doors to open. As the gates opened, the entire city resonated with spiritual fervor, and chants filled the morning air.
Speaking about the arrangements, Police Commissioner Mohit Agrawal said, “We are fully prepared. All senior officers are present on-site. Complete barricading has been done. Devotees are having darshan in a well-managed and systematic manner.”
To ensure safety and smooth management, a massive security deployment was in place. The police commissionerate had stationed six Quick Response Teams (QRTs), three drone units, mounted police, and tourist police at key locations, including Godowlia Chowk, the Ganga Ghats, and the temple premises.
As part of the warm welcome, officials greeted pilgrims with a shower of flower petals, creating a deeply moving and sacred atmosphere.
A devotee expressed their joy, saying, “The arrangements are excellent, and we had a wonderful darshan by the grace of Mahadev.”
DCP (Crime) Sarvan T. stated, “Today is the first Monday of the holy month of Sawan. Keeping this in mind, an adequate police force has been deployed to ensure the safety and security of the devotees.”
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has received enquiries from members of the public about fraudsters forging HKMA documents which claim that an investment company’s assets have been frozen due to regulatory breaches, advising clients to suspend all transactions with the company. The fraudsters also posed as the company to issue a notice, claiming that clients can transfer their assets to a partner institution by paying a service fee.
The HKMA clarifies that the documents purported to be issued by the HKMA are fraudulent, and the company and partner institution as referred to above are not regulated by the HKMA.
The HKMA advises the public to carefully verify documents purported to be issued by the HKMA, or institutions purported to be regulated by the HKMA. If in doubt, they may refer to the Register of Authorized Institutions and Local Representative Offices, the Register of Stored Value Facility Licensees, and the List of Approved Money Brokers available on the HKMA website, or contact the HKMA (enquiry hotline: 2878 8222).
The HKMA has reported the case to the Hong Kong Police Force. Members of the public who suspect that they have become victims of any fraudulent acts should contact the Police or the Commercial Crime Bureau of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012 for follow-up actions and investigation by the Police.
The offender was charged on Friday afternoon with Attempt Sexual Intercourse Without Consent, Gross Indecency, and Aggravated Assault.
He was remanded in custody to appear in Darwin Local Court today.
If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Lifeline (131 114).
Police are investigating a series of break-ins at Tanunda over the weekend.
Between 8pm Saturday 12 July and 6am Sunday 13 July an unknown person broke into several businesses on Murray Street and Basedow Road.
The suspect has been captured on CCTV and police are seeking help from the public to identify them.
Anyone who recognises the person in the footage, or who may have CCTV footage to assist in the investigation is asked to contact police.
You can anonymously provide information to Crime Stoppers online at https://crimestopperssa.com.au or free call 1800 333 000. Please quote reference 25-95M.
Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
Issued by: on
SINGAPORE (July 2, 2025) Commodore Shane Arndell, Maritime Component Commander, New Zealand Defence Force, signs a guest book during a scheduled visit to Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73, July 2, 2025. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed maritime forces, along with regional Allies and partners, to sustain Western Pacific operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)
Date Taken:
07.01.2025
Date Posted:
07.08.2025 00:44
Photo ID:
9167913
VIRIN:
250702-N-ED646-7060
Resolution:
7131×4754
Size:
5.82 MB
Location:
SG
Web Views:
13
Downloads:
1
PUBLIC DOMAIN
This work, Commodore, Maritime Component Commander, New Zealand Defence Force Visits COMLOG WESTPAC, July 2, 2025 [Image 3 of 3], by PO2 Moises Sandoval, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
Issued by: on
SINGAPORE (July 2, 2025) Commodore Shane Arndell, Maritime Component Commander, New Zealand Defence Force, signs a guest book during a scheduled visit to Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73, July 2, 2025. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed maritime forces, along with regional Allies and partners, to sustain Western Pacific operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)
Date Taken:
07.01.2025
Date Posted:
07.08.2025 00:44
Photo ID:
9167913
VIRIN:
250702-N-ED646-7060
Resolution:
7131×4754
Size:
5.82 MB
Location:
SG
Web Views:
13
Downloads:
1
PUBLIC DOMAIN
This work, Commodore, Maritime Component Commander, New Zealand Defence Force Visits COMLOG WESTPAC, July 2, 2025 [Image 3 of 3], by PO2 Moises Sandoval, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
Issued by: on
SINGAPORE (July 10, 2025) Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, left, Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 (COMLOG WESTPAC/CTF-73), greets Vice Adm. Benjapon Rusakul, Director General Naval Supply Department, Royal Thai Navy, during a scheduled visit to Sembawang Naval Installation, July 10, 2025. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed maritime forces, along with regional Allies and partners, to sustain Western Pacific operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings/Released)
Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
Issued by: on
SINGAPORE (July 10, 2025) Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, left, Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 (COMLOG WESTPAC/CTF-73), greets Vice Adm. Benjapon Rusakul, Director General Naval Supply Department, Royal Thai Navy, during a scheduled visit to Sembawang Naval Installation, July 10, 2025. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed maritime forces, along with regional Allies and partners, to sustain Western Pacific operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings/Released)
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force is investigating an aggravated assault incident in a community in the Roper Gulf Region on Saturday.
About 1am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of a 35-year-old female being speared through the abdomen throughout a large disturbance.
The female was conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital by Careflight in a stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries.
Investigations remain ongoing to understand the circumstances of the incident and identify the alleged offender.
ST. LOUIS – A St. Louis man on Thursday admitted robbing two St. Louis County, Missouri businesses at gunpoint in 2024.
Stanley E. Alford, 58, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to two counts of robbery and two counts of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. He admitted robbing a store on Gravois Bluffs Boulevard in Fenton, Missouri on Jan. 24, 2024, and a pawnshop in the 8100 block of Gravois Road in St. Louis County two days later.
During the first robbery, Alford asked a cashier for change and left when she said she couldn’t open the register. He returned a short time later to return an item that he’d just purchased. When the victim opened the register, Alford pulled a handgun and ordered the cashier to give him the cash drawer. He then made her put the cash in a bag and shoved her head with the barrel of the gun.
At the pawnshop, Alford browsed jewelry before pulling a handgun. After the employee who was helping Alford ran for her life, he jumped over the counter and stole a tray containing ten gold and diamond rings.
Surveillance video captured Alford committing both robberies and fleeing in a vehicle registered to him. He was also wearing or had in his possession several stolen rings, and officers found distinctive clothing and other evidence connecting him to the robberies.
Alford is scheduled to be sentenced on October 14. The robbery charges are punishable by up to 20 years in prison. The brandishing charges carry a penalty of seven years in prison, consecutive to any other charge, meaning Alford faces at least 14 years in prison.
The St. Louis County Police Department and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Bluestone is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.