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Category: terrorism

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Steube Reintroduces Iranian Terror Prevention Act to Designate IRGC-Linked Militias as Foreign Terrorist Organizations)

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)

    April 01, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today reintroduced the Iranian Terror Prevention Act, legislation that requires the Secretary of State to designate and codify 29 Iranian-backed militias and terror groups as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) under section 219(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as well as any foreign entity or organization controlled by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The bill is part of the Republican Study Committee’s broader initiative to counter Iran’s global terror network and hold its proxies accountable. Among the designated groups are the Badr Organization, Kata’ib al-Imam Ali, Sarayya al-Jihad, Ansarallah (also known as the Houthis), and other militias linked to the IRGC.
    “For far too long, Iran has employed proxy militias to carry out its terrorist agenda across the Middle East. These groups are responsible for attacking American forces, threatening our allies, and destabilizing the region,” said Rep. Steube. “My bill directs the State Department to formally recognize the threat these groups pose and treat them as the terrorists they are.”
    The bill directs the Secretary of State to designate each listed group as an FTO within 90 days of enactment. It also requires the President to determine, within 60 days, whether sanctions under Executive Order 13224 should be imposed on any of these entities or their affiliates, agents, or proxies.
    Additionally, the legislation requires ongoing reporting to Congress. The Secretary of State must submit a report every 180 days identifying any new entities that meet the criteria for FTO designation or sanctions under Executive Order 13224. The President must also report to Congress with a detailed explanation of any listed organizations not sanctioned.
    The Iranian Terror Prevention Act holds Iran’s terror network accountable and directs U.S. policy to confront the growing threat of IRGC-linked militias operating in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and beyond.This legislation is cosponsored by Rep. Ben Cline (R-Va.), Rep. Eli Crane (R-Ariz.), Rep. Gabe Evans (R-Colo.), Rep. Brad Finstad (R-Minn.), Rep. Craig Goldman (R-Texas), Rep. Abe Hamadeh (R-Ariz.), Rep. Mike Haridopolos (R-Fla.), Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.), Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa.), Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.), Rep. Mark Messmer (R-Ind.), Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Ala.), Rep. Derek Schmidt (R-Kan.), Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio), Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.), and Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-Ind.).Read the bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US files civil forfeiture complaint for $47 million in proceeds from Iranian oil sale following ICE investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON – An investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has resulted in a civil forfeiture complaint alleging that $47 million in proceeds from the sale of nearly one million barrels of Iranian petroleum is forfeitable as property of, or affording a person a source of influence over, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps or its Qods Force, designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations.

    The forfeiture was announced by ICE Homeland Security Investigations New York acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Alfonso; Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division; U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., for the District of Columbia; and FBI Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston, Sr. of the Minneapolis Field Office.

    “Through the work of HSI’s Counterproliferation Investigations group, alongside the FBI, the U.S. government has seized $47 million worth of funds allegedly meant for terrorist groups intent on causing catastrophic harm,” said ICE HSI New York acting Special Agent in Charge Alfonso. “The expertise of HSI personnel, coupled with federal law enforcement’s whole-of-government approach, ensures the wellbeing of the United States and our innocent foreign counterparts, alike. We are relentlessly utilizing every tool at our disposal in pursuit of any and all security threats.”

    The forfeiture complaint alleges a scheme between 2022 and 2024 to facilitate the shipment, storage, and sale of Iranian petroleum product for the benefit of the IRGC and IRGC-QF. The facilitators used deceptive practices to masquerade the Iranian oil as Malaysian, including by manipulating the tanker’s automatic identification system to conceal that it onboarded the oil from a port in Iran. The facilitators presented falsified documents to the Croatian storage facility and port authority, claiming that the oil was Malaysian. The facilitators paid for storage fees associated with the oil’s storage at the Croatian facility in U.S. dollars, transactions that were conducted through U.S. financial institutions that would have refused the transactions had they known they were associated with Iranian oil. The petroleum product was sold in 2024, and the United States seized $47 million in proceeds from that sale.

    The civil forfeiture complaint further alleges that the petroleum product constitutes the property of the National Iranian Oil Company, which has perpetuated a federal crime of terrorism by providing material support to the IRGC and IRGC-QF. As alleged, profits from petroleum product sales support the IRGC’s full range of malign activities, including the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery, support for terrorism, and both domestic and international human rights abuses.

    “We will aggressively enforce U.S. sanctions against Iran, in furtherance of President Trump’s maximum pressure campaign,” said U.S. Attorney Martin. “With the continued seizures of Iranian oil and U.S. dollar profits, we are sending a clear message to Iran that bypassing the sanctions put in place by the U.S. Government is not as easy as playing a shell game with tankers filled with oil. We remain committed to thwarting Iran’s devious attempts, and to deprive its terrorists of the funding they desire.”

    “The FBI will not allow hostile regimes to evade U.S. sanctions or exploit our financial systems to fund designated terrorist organizations,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Winston. “The FBI, alongside our partners, will relentlessly enforce U.S. sanctions against Iran and safeguard U.S. national security by disrupting illicit networks that seek to profit from sanctioned oil sales.”

    Funds successfully forfeited with a connection to a state sponsor of terrorism may in whole or in part be directed to the U.S. Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund.

    ICE HSI New York and FBI Minneapolis Field Office are investigating the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Stresses Need for Techno-Legal Framework to Address Emerging New-Age Crimes and to Ensure Prompt Investigation and Bringing Criminals to Justice for Effective Prosecution

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Stresses Need for Techno-Legal Framework to Address Emerging New-Age Crimes and to Ensure Prompt Investigation and Bringing Criminals to Justice for Effective Prosecution

    Technical knowhow of India’s academia, scientists and researchers should be harnessed to bring about technological solutions in investigations

    Union Minister Urges CBI to Establish State-of-the-Art Cyber Forensic Labs in Collaboration with Academia

    Amid Deepfake & AI challenges, Ashwini Vaishnaw says the Future of Effective Criminal Justice lies in combining legal frameworks with Technological Capability and Institutional innovation

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw delivers 21st D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture on CBI’s 62nd Foundation Day, presents police medals to 26 officers

    Union Minister highlights CBI’s role in justice and outlines four key pillars of India’s growth strategy

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 5:46PM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Hon’ble Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, addressed the 21st D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture on CBI’s 62nd Foundation Day held today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Speaking on the theme ‘VIKSIT BHARAT @ 2047 – A Roadmap for CBI’, the Minister outlined a strategic vision for the agency’s role in India’s progress over the next two decades. During the event, President’s Police Medals (PPM) for Distinguished Service and Police Medals (PM) for Meritorious Service to CBI officers were presented acknowledging their dedication and exceptional contributions.

    In his address, Sh. Ashwini Vaishnaw elaborated the important role played by CBI over the years in bringing out truth through in depth & professional investigation and in bringing criminals to justice through effective prosecution. He further said “Our academia, our scientists, our researchers today possess remarkable strength and capabilities. This strength must be harnessed by investigating agencies, law officers, and government departments to co-develop technological solutions. Law alone will not be sufficient, we need techno-legal approach to address the challenges posed by new-age crimes and investigation,” the Minister emphasized.

    Union Minister urged the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take the lead in building state-of-the-art cyber forensic laboratories by actively partnering with academic and research institutions. He further highlighted the need for institutional frameworks that facilitate such collaborations and suggested that Ministries and Departments such as MeitY, Department of Telecommunications (DoT), and Department of Science and Technology (DST) work closely with investigative agencies to co-create technologies required for modern-day law enforcement.

    The Minister’s remarks come in the backdrop of rapid technological evolution, including challenges posed by artificial intelligence, deepfakes, and cyber-enabled crimes. He stressed that the future of effective criminal justice lies in combining legal frameworks with technological capability and institutional innovation.

    Reflecting on India’s transformative journey over the past decade, the Minister noted the country’s rapid economic growth, strong governance, and technological leadership. He further highlighted four pillars of growth strategy in the last decade, first, public investment in physical, social and digital infrastructure, second a large number of inclusive growth programs, third a strong focus on manufacturing and innovation and fourth, simplification of legal and compliance structures.

    First Pillar: Public Investment In Physical, Social and Digital infrastructure

    The first pillar of India’s growth strategy focuses on significant investments in social, physical and digital infrastructure, including the construction of national highways, new airports, and the electrification of railways. The Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has democratized technology with over 118 crore telecom subscribers, 70 crore smartphone users, and a robust AI ecosystem to support innovation. In social infrastructure, India has also expanded educational opportunities by opening 490 new universities and increasing the capacity of IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS.

    Second Pillar: Inclusive Growth

    The second pillar of India’s growth strategy focuses on inclusive growth, ensuring that economic progress translates into real improvements in people’s lives. Over the past decade, 54 crore new bank accounts have been opened, 4 crore houses built, and 12 crore tap water connections provided. In addition, 35 crore citizens are part of the Ayushman Bharat program, with more than 25 crore citizens coming out of poverty and improved access to essential services for millions.

    Third Pillar: Strong Focus on Manufacturing and Innovation

    The third pillar of India’s growth strategy emphasizes manufacturing and innovation, shifting the country from a services-based economy to a manufacturing hub. Initiatives like Make in India and Startup India have spurred growth, with electronics becoming the third-largest export and India becoming the second-largest mobile manufacturer globally. Key successes include developments in the semiconductor, defense, telecom sector, and the launch of high-speed Vande Bharat trains.

    Fourth Pillar: Simplification of legal and compliance structures

    The fourth pillar of India’s growth strategy focuses on simplification by eliminating outdated colonial-era laws. Over 1,500 archaic laws have been removed, and new frameworks like the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) have replaced old legal structures such as the IPC and CrPC. This simplification process is paving the way for a more modern and efficient legal system.

    CBI Director, Shri Praveen Sood welcomed the guests on the occasion. Attorney General of India, Central Vigilance Commissioner, Director IB, Director ED, Heads of NIA & Central Paramilitary Forces graced the occasion. Police Liaison Officers (PLOs) of other countries, also attended the event.

    Following officers & officials of CBI were presented the medals by the Honb’le Minister for Distinguished and Meritorious Service: 

    (i)         President’s Police Medals (PPM) for Distinguished Service were presented to :

    1.         Shri K. Pradeep Kumar, SP, CBI, ACB, Jammu;

    2.         Shri Naresh Kumar Sharma, ASP, CBI, Special Unit, New Delhi;

    3.         Shri Mukesh Kumar, ASP, CBI, AC-II, New Delhi;

    4.         Shri Ramji Lal Jat, Head Constable, CBI, ACB, Jaipur (Now Retired) and

    5.         Shri Raj Kumar, Head Constable, CBI, Head Office, New Delhi

     

    (ii)        Police Medals (PM) for Meritorious Service were presented to:

     

    1.         Shri Raghavendra Vatsa, IPS (GJ:05), then DIG-HoB, CBI, ACB, New Delhi  (presently in the cadre as IGP, Gujarat Police);

    2.         Ms. Sharada Pandurang Raut, IPS (MH:05) then DIG- HoB, CBI, EOB, Mumbai (presently in the cadre as Jt. Commissioner, S.I.D., Maharashtra  Mumbai);

    3.         Shri Prem Kumar Gautam, IPS (UP:05), then DIG – HoB, CBI, SU, New Delhi (presently in the cadre as IGP, Prayagraj Range, Uttar Pradesh);

    4.         Shri Manoj Chaladan, DLA, CBI, ACB, Mumbai;

    5.         Shri Srinivas Pillari, Principal System Analyst, CBI, ACB, Kolkata (Now posted at Systems Division, Delhi Branch);

    6.         Shri K. Madhusudhanan, DSP, CBI, ACB, Visakhapatnam;

    7.         Shri Ajay Kumar, DSP (Now ASP) CBI, Policy Division, New Delhi;

    8.         Shri Balwinder Singh, Inspector, CBI, SCB, Chandigarh;

    9.         Shri Chitti Babu N., Inspector, CBI, ACB, Hyderabad;

    10.       Shri Manoj Kumar, Inspector, CBI, HO, New Delhi (presently in his parent force & posted at CISF, CGBS Unit Mahipalpur, New Delhi);

    11.       Shri Rahul Kumar, Inspector, CBI, EOB, Kolkata (presently in his force & posted at CISF Unit SMP, Kolkata);

    12.       Shri Rajeev Sharma, Inspector, CBI,HO, New Delhi;

    13.       Shri S. Nanda Kumar, Assistant Sub Inspector, CBI, SU, Chennai;

    14.       Shri Suresh Prasad Shukla, Head Constable, CBI, ACB, Jabalpur  (now posted at CBI, BSFB Mumbai);

    15.       Shri Rajesh Kumar, Head Constable, CBI, HO, New Delhi;

    16.       Shri Om Prakash Daloutra, Head Constable, CBI, ACB, Jammu;

    17.       Shri Randhir Singh, Head Constable, CBI, ACB, Jaipur;

    18.       Shri Pawan Kumar, Constable, CBI, SC-I, NewDelhi;

    19.       Shri Tejpal Singh, Constable, CBI, Policy Division, New Delhi;

    20.       Shri Atul Sareen, Crime Assistant, CBI, Policy Division, New Delhi and

    21.       Shri Subra Mohanty, Steno Gr.-II, CBI, ACB, Bhubaneswar

    About the event

    CBI pays its respect and homage to its founder Director late Shri Dharamnath Prasad Kohli and has been organizing the D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture since the year 2000.

    Shri Dharamnath Prasad Kohli was born in 1907 in Uttar Pradesh (UP), India. After joining Police Service in 1931, he served in UP, erstwhile Madhya Bharat and the Government of India. He had distinguished career in the Indian Police. He headed Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) from July 1955 to March 1963. On creation of Central Bureau of Investigation, on 1st April, 1963, Shri D.P. Kohli became its founder Director and continued as its Director from 1963 till his retirement on May 31, 1968.

    The lecture series has been honoured to feature highly distinguished speakers and luminaries from various fields who share their insights and experience on pertinent topics. The lecture series is intended to contribute to fostering dialogue, sharing knowledge, and advancing the understanding of challenges and solutions in the realm of law enforcement, criminal justice system and criminal investigation. The D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture serves as an apt tribute to Shri D.P. Kohli’s vision and legacy in establishing the CBI as a premier investigating and prosecuting agency. It also underscores the agency’s commitment to upholding integrity, accountability, and excellence in its operations as enshrined in CBI’s motto Industry, Impartiality and Integrity.

    The Central Bureau of Investigation was established by a Government of India resolution dated 1st April, 1963 to investigate not only cases of bribery and corruption, but also violation of central fiscal laws, serious crimes besides collecting supporting intelligence. Over the last more than six decades, the Central Bureau of Investigation has emerged as a premier investigating and prosecuting agency of the country covering entire gamut of crimes including emerging new age crimes like cyber enabled financial crimes, online CSAM (Child Sexual Abuse Material), etc. CBI as the National Central Bureau for INTERPOL in India also coordinates international cooperation in law enforcement.

    The function was also webcast live Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Delivers the 21st D.P. Kohli Memorial Lecture at Bharat Mandapam

    ****

     

    Dharmendra Tewari/ Navin Sreejith

    (Release ID: 2117361) Visitor Counter : 126

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India – Chile Joint Statement (April 01, 2025)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 6:11PM by PIB Delhi

    At the invitation of Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, the President of the Republic of Chile, H.E. Mr. Gabriel Boric Font is on a State visit to India from 1-5 April, 2025, commemorating the completion of 76 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. President Boric is accompanied by Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, Mining, Women and Gender Equality and Cultures, Arts and Heritage, Members of Parliament, Senior Officials and a large number of business leaders. Apart from New Delhi, President Boric will visit Agra, Mumbai and Bengaluru. This is the first visit of President Boric to India. Both President Boric and Prime Minister Modi had first met on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro in November 2024.

    President Boric was accorded a warm and ceremonial welcome on arrival at Air Force Station Palam. Prime Minister Modi held bilateral talks with President Boric at Hyderabad House on 1 April 2025. He met President Droupadi Murmu who also hosted a Banquet in his honour and his accompanying delegation. Dr S Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India called on President Boric.

    President Boric and Prime Minister Modi recalled the historic diplomatic ties that were established in 1949, growing trade linkages, people-to-people linkages, cultural ties and also the warm and cordial bilateral relations between both countries. They expressed desire for further expanding and deepening of the multifaceted relationship between the two countries in all areas of mutual interests.

    During their meeting, the two leaders comprehensively reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations spanning a wide range of sectors, including trade and investment, health and pharmaceuticals, defence and security, infrastructure, mining and mineral resources, agriculture and food security, green energy, ICT, digitization, innovation, disaster management, cooperation in science and technology, education and people-to-people linkages. The two sides agreed to continue regular exchanges at various levels to give further momentum to the bilateral relationship.

    The two leaders noted that trade and commerce has been a strong pillar of the bilateral relations. While highlighting the positive effects generated by the expansion of the India-Chile Preferential Trade Agreement in May 2017, which has resulted in substantial increase in bilateral trade, the two leaders emphasized the need for further strengthening of bilateral trade mechanisms that could open new opportunities for expansion of bilateral trade. The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the recent increase in visits of business delegations from both sides, which is strengthening trade and economic relations between the two countries. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Boric for bringing in a large business delegation, which will help in intensifying business interaction between the two countries. Both agreed to continue the discussions for further enhancement of the trade relations.

    President Boric conveyed that India is a priority partner for Chile in the global economy and stressed the need to explore strategies for enhanced and diversified trade between the two countries. The President and the Prime Minister acknowledged signing of the mutually agreed Terms of Reference and welcomed the launch of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations for a balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial agreement to achieve a deeper economic integration. The CEPA will aim at unlocking the full potential of the trade and commercial relationship between India and Chile, boosting employment, bilateral trade, and economic growth.

    To further promote trade relations as well as people-to-people interactions, President Boric announced Chile’s decision to grant a Multiple Entry Permit for Indian businesspersons which will streamline the visa process. Prime Minister Modi welcomed and valued this measure, as it reflects the willingness of both parties to facilitate trade and investment and the shared commitment to deepening bilateral relations between Chile and India. Acknowledging the people-to-people linkages as an important pillar to promote bilateral ties and to facilitate business, tourism, student and academic exchanges, Indian side has already put in place a flexible visa regime, including by extending e-visa facility for Chilean travellers to India.

    Both leaders recognised the strategic importance of critical minerals for emerging technologies, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy transitions, both leaders agreed to accelerate collaboration in exploration, mining and processing along with research and development to promote investment across the entire critical mineral value chain for mutual benefit. They stressed on the need for building trusted and resilient supply chains including for critical minerals and advanced materials. The two sides agreed to work together on initiatives to strengthen supply chains and local value chains by fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and understandings in mining and minerals, including the possibility of long-term supply of minerals and materials from Chile to India.

    Both leaders agreed to explore the opening up of new avenues for cooperation in health and pharmaceuticals, space, ICT, agriculture, green energy, traditional medicine, Antarctica, Science & Technology, management of natural disasters, sports, Startups, cooperatives, and audiovisual co-production, through the exchange of experiences and good practices among the agencies responsible for these matters.

    President Boric acknowledged the role of the Indian pharmaceutical industry as one of the world leaders, and an important partner for Chile in the supply of affordable and high-quality products. Both sides agreed to facilitate private sectors of the two countries to increase trade in pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and medical devices. Both sides agreed to work on enhancing cooperation in healthcare and pharmaceuticals sectors and address market access issues for Indian pharmaceuticals, as well as advancing in the recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia by Chile.

    The two leaders noted the importance of traditional medicines and Yoga in preserving health and wellbeing of people and directed their officials for an early conclusion of the Memorandum of Understanding on Traditional Medicines to promote a more sustainable lifestyle. Towards this, both countries agreed to collaborate and intensify the promotion and use of evidence-based, integrative, Traditional Medicine, Homeopathy, and Yoga by signing an MoU.

    Both sides agreed to work on promoting investments in infrastructure projects in each other’s countries. Chilean side welcomed Indian companies to participate in infrastructure projects including in railway sector.

    The two leaders encouraged the two sides to work together to explore substantial areas for bilateral defence cooperation, including capacity building and defence industrial collaboration. Both agreed to share knowledge in developing and enhancing each other’s capabilities under the existing formal defence cooperation agreement in place. Indian side highlighted that Chile has been kept on priority while offering opportunities in training at Defence Services Staff College, NDC, NDA and HDMC, apart from slots for specialised courses in mountain warfare and peacekeeping operations previously made available. Indian side expressed its desire to receive and train Chilean military in areas of mutual interests.

    Both leaders expressed their happiness on signing of the Letter of Intent to strengthen existing Antarctic cooperation, which will further facilitate partnership in Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources agendas bilateral dialogues, joint initiatives and academic exchanges related to Antarctica and Antarctic policy. Both India and Chile are Consultative Parties to the Antarctic Treaty and reaffirmed their commitment to deepen scientific understanding of Antarctic for the benefit of both parties and the global community.

    The two sides welcomed the adoption and opening for signature of the Agreement on Marine Biodiversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), as a key legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction and reiterated the resolve of their respective countries to preserve, protect and promote biodiversity, from land to sea, and agreed to work together and support each other in international forums dealing with these issues. Both countries reaffirmed their intention to strengthen a vision from the Global South in multilateralism, through cooperation and joint efforts, based on the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and the right to development.

    Recalling the two countries’ decades-long partnership in space, the two leaders noted the ongoing engagements in the space sector between the two countries, including the launching of a satellite belonging to Chile (SUCHAI-1) by India in 2017 as a co-passenger under a commercial arrangement. Both leaders emphasized the importance of further cooperation to promote training and capacity building and research in space and astrophysics. In this regard, they welcomed the constitution of Space Executive Committee by Chile to work on cooperation including in the areas of exploration in space, R&D, training, satellite building, launch and operation and peaceful use of outer space with ISRO, IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre) and Startups.

    Both leaders noted their respective dynamic information and digital technology sectors and stressed the need to explore synergies to enhance cooperation in this field. They expressed mutual interest in growth of investment, joint ventures, technological development and markets in the IT and digital space, including promoting collaboration in Digital Public Infrastructures (DPI), thereby democratizing access to digital services for people and businesses. Both leaders acknowledged the efforts by the two sides in exploring early implementation of cooperation in the digital payments sectors. They committed to work for developing closer cooperation between the vibrant Startup ecosystems of the two countries. Both leaders expressed their desire for advancing on signing of an understanding on cooperation in the areas of Digital Transformation to facilitate deeper engagement between tech communities of both countries.

    The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to reformed multilateralism and for comprehensive reforms of the UN Security Council, including its expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories of membership to make it more representative, accountable, transparent, inclusive and effective, reflecting the geopolitical realities of the 21st Century. The Chilean side reiterated its support for India’s candidature for a permanent membership in a reformed and expanded UN Security Council. The two sides agreed to work together for promotion of democratic principles and human rights to strengthen the world peace stressing the importance of resolving all disputes through peaceful dialogue.

    Both leaders reaffirmed their unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross border terrorism and shared their resolve to stand together in common fight against global terrorism. They agreed that terrorism must be combated through concerted global actions.

    The two leaders called upon all UN member countries to implement the UNSC Resolution 1267 and work towards eliminating terrorist safe havens and infrastructure and disrupt terrorist networks and all terror financing channels. Both reiterated their commitment to work together in Financial Action Task Force (FATF), No Money For Terror (NMFT) and other multilateral platforms to combat terrorism. The two leaders also reiterated the importance of early finalization of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.

    The two leaders committed themselves to the vision of a rules-based international order that respects sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations, ensures freedom of navigation and overflight as well as unimpeded lawful commerce, and that seeks peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with universally recognized principles of international law, notably the UNCLOS.

    Prime Minister Modi appreciated the participation of Chile in all the three editions of the “Voice of Global South” Summits, reflecting the commitment in bringing together countries of the Global South to share their development perspectives and priorities. Prime Minister Modi thanked President Boric for sharing his valuable perspectives and ideas at the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit held in August 2024 and noted that both countries have strong convergence on several contemporary global issues, including on the need for effective global governance reforms and equitable access for Global South countries to clean and green technologies. President Boric welcomed India’s leadership in strengthening engagements between countries of Global South.

    President Boric appreciated India’s leadership in G20 which brought the development agenda to centre stage and acknowledged the transformative and inclusive role of technology, with a focus on unlocking the potential of digital public infrastructure (DPI). Both Leaders recognized that India’s G20 Presidency has championed Voice of the Global South by bringing to fore key initiatives and outcomes, such as inclusion of African Union in G20, promotion of Lifestyles for sustainable development (LiFE), advancements in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), reforms of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) and focus on women-led development. In this regard, and with the aim of promoting greater integration and representativeness within the G20, India will support the inclusion of Chile and Latin American countries in the discussions as G20′ guest countries.

    The two sides recognized the challenges for their economies presented by climate change and the transition to low emissions climate resilient economies. Accordingly, they expressed keen desire to promote clean energy and sustainable development through development of more efficient energy technologies. The two leaders called for increased joint investments in renewable energy, green hydrogen, utilization and storage technologies, energy efficiency, and other low-carbon solutions that will have the potential to accelerate sustainable economic growth and foster job creation.

    President Boric welcomed India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and reiterated strong support as a member since November 2023. Prime Minister Modi appreciated Chile joining the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) in January 2021 aiming to make systems and infrastructure resilient to achieve the objectives of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, both leaders valued Chile’s offer of hosting the 7th Meeting of the ISA Regional Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean.

    Recognizing the growing significance of technology enabled learning solutions, skills development, and institutional capacity building, India and Chile reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation in these areas. Both countries have agreed to facilitate partnerships between EdCIL (India) Limited and key Chilean institutions, including the Council of Rectors of Chilean Universities (CRUCH), the Chilean Ministry of Education, and technical training centres (CFTs), thereby focusing on digital learning, research exchanges, smart education infrastructure, and vocational training programs, leveraging the strengths of both nations to drive innovation and knowledge-sharing in education.

    Prime Minister Modi, highlighting the transformational changes taking place in education sector in India under National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, encouraged leading Chilean universities to strengthen academic and research partnerships with Indian institutions and build institutional linkages through joint/dual degree and twinning arrangements. Given mutual strengths of both countries in astronomy and astrophysics, both leaders agreed to strengthen institutional engagements in these domains. The two leaders welcomed the proposal for establishment of an ICCR Chair on Indian Studies in one of the universities in Chile and directed the officials to examine the feasibility for an early implementation.

    Both leaders welcomed the ongoing cooperation in training and capacity building in the field of diplomacy and noted the potential for further enhancement for cooperation in this area, in line with global diplomatic endeavours and new technology making diplomacy more efficient.

    The two leaders acknowledged the role of cultural ties in bringing the people of the two countries closer to each other. They lauded the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India and Chile and appreciated the long-standing cultural exchanges between the two nations. The leaders applauded the growing interest in the study of the cultures and languages in both countries with Spanish being among the popular foreign languages in India. They stressed the mutual interest in further strengthening India – Chile cultural cooperation and the reinforcement of cooperation among cultural institutions of the two countries. They welcomed the signing of new Cultural Exchange Program to promote bilateral exchanges in music, dance, theatre, literature, museums and festivals.

    The two leaders expressed satisfaction on the progress made to finalise the agreement on cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters which will lead to strengthening linkages between the relevant agencies to counter illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and, in general, to investigate, prevent and suppress contraventions of Customs laws, as well as sharing of best practices and capacity building. They also welcomed the efforts by two sides to sign an agreement on cooperation in the disability sector which would contribute to a more humane and just society where no one is left behind. The two leaders directed their officials to conclude these documents at an early date.

    Both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining regular interaction on matters of mutual interest. They reiterated their willingness to build on opportunities to promote and expand the bonds of cooperation and understanding that characterizes the bilateral relationship.

    President Gabriel Boric thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for warmth and hospitality accorded to him and his delegation during the visit and invited him to pay an official visit to Chile at a mutually convenient time.

    *****

    MJPS/SR/BM

    (Release ID: 2117396) Visitor Counter : 177

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: JOINT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security – RC-B10-0211/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Lukas Mandl, David McAllister, Andrzej Halicki, Michael Gahler, Sebastião Bugalho, Željana Zovko, François‑Xavier Bellamy, Christophe Gomart, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Andrey Kovatchev, Miriam Lexmann, Rasa Juknevičienė, Antonio López‑Istúriz White
    on behalf of the PPE Group
    Yannis Maniatis, Marit Maij
    on behalf of the S&D Group
    Patryk Jaki, Adam Bielan, Bert‑Jan Ruissen, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Aurelijus Veryga, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Bogdan Rzońca, Arkadiusz Mularczyk, Mariusz Kamiński, Marlena Maląg, Marion Maréchal, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Alberico Gambino, Nicolas Bay, Waldemar Buda, Piotr Müller, Maciej Wąsik, Kosma Złotowski, Jacek Ozdoba, Daniel Obajtek, Tobiasz Bocheński, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński, Carlo Fidanza, Cristian Terheş
    on behalf of the ECR Group
    Hilde Vautmans, Petras Auštrevičius, Dan Barna, Olivier Chastel, Ľubica Karvašová, Ilhan Kyuchyuk, Urmas Paet, Lucia Yar
    on behalf of the Renew Group
    Mounir Satouri
    on behalf of the Verts/ALE Group

    European Parliament resolution on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security

    (2025/2612(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC),

    – having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,

    – having regard to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights,

    – having regard to the Constitution of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which guarantees the right to freedom of conscience and the free exercise of religious worship for all citizens,

    – having regard to the UN Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief, adopted by the UN General Assembly on 25 November 1981,

    – having regard to the European Convention on Human Rights,

    – having regard to Rules 136(2) and (4) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the eastern DRC has endured decades of widespread violence and instability; whereas the situation continues to deteriorate significantly, with persistent human rights violations by armed groups, mass displacement, attacks on civilians and alarming humanitarian conditions further exacerbated by armed conflicts, such as the conflict between the DRC Government, the Rwanda-backed armed rebel group March 23 Movement (M23) and other militias, which has already resulted in the forceful internal displacement of 4.6 million people in the eastern DRC; whereas around 100 separate armed groups are estimated to be operating in the eastern DRC; whereas a series of overlapping issues are driving destabilisation in the country;

    B. whereas M23 has intensified attacks in North Kivu and on 19 March 2025, it seized the mineral-rich town of Walikale, defying the ceasefire;

    C. whereas the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) is one of the most prominent extremist groups with explicitly religious objectives, especially since its leader pledged allegiance to the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in 2019, becoming its Central Africa Province branch (ISCAP); whereas the ADF’s attacks need to be seen in the wider African context of a rise in the number of Islamist groups, in particular those affiliated to ISIS, in the Sahel region, the Horn of Africa, Mozambique, Nigeria and the DRC; whereas the ADF has been designated a terrorist group by Uganda and the United States;

    D. whereas in May 2024, the UN Group of Experts on the DRC warned that the ‘armed group established strong networks in prisons, particularly in Kinshasa where ADF detainees were active in recruiting and mobilising combatants and collaborators’, using not only ideological means, but also coercion, deception, abduction and financial incentives to attract members and collaborators;

    E. whereas the ADF has a long history of committing terrorist attacks in the eastern DRC, particularly in North Kivu and Ituri provinces; whereas North Kivu is a resource-rich region, with vast supplies of critical raw materials including cobalt, gold and tin, which are necessary for the global digital and energy transitions; whereas it is known that the ADF and other armed groups, including M23, have been relying on, among other sources of financing, the illegal exploitation of these resources to fund their activities; whereas the Congolese Catholic Church claims that the ADF is responsible for the deaths of around 6 000 civilians in Beni between 2013 and 2021 and more than 2 000 in Bunia in 2020 alone; whereas in 2024, a large number of Christians were killed in the DRC by jihadists; whereas civilians in the DRC’s eastern provinces are facing an increasing number of attacks, killings and abductions, as well as church bombings and the destruction of (religious) property, perpetrated by armed groups with extremist and jihadist ideologies; whereas most victims of ADF attacks have been Christian; whereas these attacks undermine religious freedom and exacerbate intercommunal tensions; whereas the Catholic bishops of the DRC spoke out in an April 2021 statement about the threat of the ‘Islamization of the region [North Kivu] as a sort of deeper strategy for a long-term negative influence on the general political situation of the country’;

    F. whereas in 2021, a prominent local Muslim leader received death threats from the ADF, and he was later gunned down; whereas in 2023, the ADF bombed services at a Pentecostal church in Kasindi, killing 14 people; whereas the ADF has been linked to an attack on the village of Mukondi in 2023, in which at least 44 civilians were killed, according to local authorities; whereas the group claimed 48 attacks in December 2024 alone, killing over 200 people; whereas in January 2024, the ADF killed eight people in Beni during an attack on a Pentecostal church and, in May 2024, ADF assailants reportedly killed 14 Catholics in the North Kivu province for refusing to convert to Islam; whereas the ADF also reportedly executed 11 Christians in the village of Ndimo in Ituri province and kidnapped several others;

    G. whereas local and international human rights organisations have documented numerous instances of religious violence in the DRC, while stressing the urgent need for the state to provide adequate protection; whereas, while the DRC Government has demonstrated a strong intention to address the impacts of armed group violence in the eastern DRC, other recent developments call into question the government’s commitment to safeguarding religious freedom specifically; whereas women and children are particularly vulnerable to rape as weapon of war, human trafficking and sexual slavery;

    H. whereas the Armed Forces of the DRC have been conducting a joint military offensive, Operation Shujaa, with the Ugandan People’s Defence Force against the ADF and other insurgent forces in the eastern DRC since November 2021; whereas the conflict between the DRC Government and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels has led to a decrease in the funds, personnel and equipment being allocated to this counterterrorism operation;

    I. whereas the right to freedom of religion and belief is a fundamental human right and must be protected given the high level of violence and persecution; whereas the Constitution of the DRC provides for freedom of religion and prohibits discrimination based on religious belief;

    J. whereas over 7 million people in the DRC are currently displaced because of the wider ongoing conflicts, with limited access to food, water, healthcare and essential services; whereas state authorities and rebel groups have obligations to civilians under international humanitarian law, including protecting and facilitating access to humanitarian assistance, and permitting freedom of movement;

    K. whereas women and children in the DRC face increased levels of sexual and gender-based violence, including rape as a weapon of war, resulting in there being one victim of rape every four minutes;

    L. whereas the illegal exploitation of mineral resources continues to fuel conflict in the region, necessitating stronger international oversight and responsible sourcing policies;

    M. whereas in March 2025, President Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda issued a joint statement announcing a ceasefire; whereas despite this, the violence perpetrated by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels continues;

    N. whereas the DRC has one of the highest rates of internal displacement in the world; whereas many women and children live in precarious conditions and are being exposed to the risk of harassment, assault, sexual exploitation and forced recruitment; whereas displaced populations often receive no basic life-saving services and are at risk of malnutrition and disease; whereas cities that host internally displaced people in precarious circumstances are also targets of attacks by different militias, causing great distress to the displaced communities and to the local population;

    O. whereas the EU has committed to supporting stability in the DRC through diplomatic engagement, financial assistance and targeted sanctions against individuals responsible for violence and human rights abuses; whereas on 17 March 2025, the EU imposed sanctions on nine individuals and one entity responsible for acts that constitute serious human rights violations and abuses or that sustain the conflict in the DRC, including through the illegal exploitation of resources, but further diplomatic and economic measures may be necessary;

    P. whereas the Council has renewed the EU’s financial support for the deployment of Rwandan Defence Force (RDF) troops in Mozambique under the European Peace Facility (EPF); whereas the head of these forces was previously deployed in the eastern DRC to support abuses committed by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, giving rise to serious doubt as to whether there are sufficient safeguards attached to EPF support, including effective vetting and other human rights requirements;

    Q. whereas the EU has repeatedly affirmed its commitment to the promotion and protection of religious freedom globally, and has taken steps to combat religious persecution and intolerance in various parts of the world; whereas Christians are the most persecuted religious group in the world;

    R. whereas Parliament has consistently called for the strengthening of international efforts to combat religious persecution and to hold accountable those responsible for attacks on minority communities;

    1. Strongly condemns the occupation of Goma and other territories in the eastern DRC by M23 and the RDF as an unacceptable breach of the DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity; urges the Rwandan Government to withdraw its troops from DRC territory, the presence of whom is a clear violation of international law and the UN Charter, and cease cooperation with the M23 rebels; demands that Rwanda and all other potential state actors in the region cease their support for M23;

    2. Expresses deep concern at the alarming continuation of violence; deplores the loss of life and the attacks, both indiscriminate and targeted, against civilians; expresses deep concern over the worsening security and humanitarian crises in the eastern DRC as a whole; calls for the immediate cessation of all forms of violence and for the commitment of all parties involved in the ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC to respect international humanitarian law;

    3. Strongly condemns the targeted terrorist attacks carried out by the ADF against Christian communities in the eastern DRC, including killings, abductions and the destruction of religious property, and calls for an immediate halt to such acts of violence; expresses its solidarity with the families of the victims and with Christian communities;

    4. Strongly condemns the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group and the ADF, as well as other rebel groups, and their egregious human rights abuses that amount to crimes against humanity in accordance with the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC); underlines that there must be no impunity for the perpetrators of these acts and that those responsible should be referred to the ICC; encourages the establishment of an international commission of inquiry to examine the human rights violations committed in the DRC, renewed investigations in North Kivu by the ICC Prosecutors Office and the creation of a special tribunal for atrocity crimes in the DRC, including crimes committed against Christian communities; backs the efforts by the National Episcopal Conference of Congo and the Church of Christ in Congo, which launched the ‘Social pact for peace and coexistence in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Great Lakes Region’, with the aim of restoring peace in the country’s eastern provinces;

    5. Supports the international efforts against the ADF, including the Shujaa counterterrorism operation carried out jointly by the DRC and Ugandan armed forces; encourages the EU Member States to consider ways of contributing to these efforts, including increased efforts to trace and interdict ISIS secret funds held overseas and to trace any raw materials stemming from their illegal exploitation by the ADF; calls for the EU to support the necessary capacity-building and expertise to combat ADF ideology and rhetoric, particularly within the Muslim communities of both Uganda and the DRC, to prevent recruitment among those communities; requests the application of the EU global human rights sanctions regime to those responsible for planning, ordering or participating in the killing of Christians in the DRC;

    6. Calls for an immediate and effective ceasefire, and for the full implementation of diplomatic agreements, including the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes; underlines the urgent need for the stabilisation of the country and reiterates its call on M23 to halt its territorial advances and withdraw from the territory of the DRC;

    7. Reiterates its full support for the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) in protecting civilians and stabilising the region; urges the EU to cooperate with all actors on the ground, in particular MONUSCO, to ensure the protection of civilians in the eastern DRC; calls on the UN to work towards a stronger mandate for MONUSCO in order to enable peacemaking; calls on the UN to ensure the protection of civilians and respect for international humanitarian law;

    8. Urges the international community to increase support for services in the eastern DRC so that civilians who have been targeted can have access to legal services and psychological support; calls on the DRC Government to counter extremist propaganda; calls for the establishment of early warning mechanisms to more effectively prevent and respond to attacks by the ADF and other armed groups against civilians;

    9. Reiterates its call for all parties, including armed groups operating in the eastern DRC, to allow and facilitate humanitarian access to address the urgent need for essential services in the eastern DRC and neighbouring countries, notably Burundi; emphasises that humanitarian workers must be able to operate safely to deliver life-saving assistance to Congolese civilians; stresses that this is a central obligation under international humanitarian law, and that perpetrators violating these obligations should be held to account; calls on all parties to provide a safe environment for civil society organisations;

    10. Is appalled by the shocking use of sexual violence against women and children as a tool of repression and weapon of war in the eastern DRC, and by the unacceptable recruitment of child soldiers by the various rebel groups; demands that these matters be addressed by the international community without delay;

    11. Calls for stricter enforcement of EU regulations on conflict minerals to prevent illicit trade from fuelling armed groups in the DRC; reiterates its previous call on the Commission to suspend the EU’s Memorandum of Understanding with Rwanda; requests that the Commission share detailed mapping of current projects with Rwandan authorities and its assessment of whether they may contribute to or fail to address human rights violations either inside Rwanda or in the DRC;

    12. Calls for the EU and its Member States to support the DRC in implementing the recommendations of the 2010 mapping report by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCR), including reforming the security sector, strengthening its efforts to prevent further atrocities against civilians, and ending support for or collaboration with abusive armed groups; urges the DRC Government to ensure accountability for human rights violations and prosecute those responsible for attacks; calls for the EU and its Member States to support the DRC in fighting corruption, strengthening governance and the rule of law, improving security and ensuring the lasting protection of communities at risk, including religious communities, and to ensure that perpetrators of attacks are brought to justice;

    13. Underlines the role of communities, including religious communities and faith-based organisations in the DRC, in promoting peace, social cohesion and the well-being of local communities;

    14. Calls on the Commission and the European External Action Service to intensify diplomatic efforts by working closely with regional partners, including the African Union, the East African Community and the United Nations, in order to step up diplomatic efforts to achieve a sustainable resolution to the conflict and prevent extremist groups from using religion as a tool for violence and division;

    15. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to increase humanitarian aid to address the urgent needs of displaced persons and vulnerable communities in the DRC, ensuring safe access to food, medical care and shelter;

    16. Supports the imposition of further targeted EU sanctions against individuals and entities responsible for financing or engaging in violence, human rights abuses and resource exploitation; calls for the implementation of the sanctions outlined in the UNHCR mapping report;

    17. Confirms its commitment to freedom of thought, conscience and religion as a fundamental human right guaranteed by international legal instruments recognised as holding universal value, and to which most countries in the world have committed, and which is enshrined in the Constitution of the DRC;

    18. Echoes the calls for international solidarity in defending religious freedom and the protection of religious minorities in conflict zones, particularly in the DRC, while addressing the root causes of violent extremism in the DRC and its neighbourhood;

    19. Urges the EU to uphold its commitment to the promotion of religious freedom and the protection of communities, including religious communities, ensuring that the rights of these groups are prioritised in the EU’s external policies;

    20. Notes, with concern, the growing influence of the Russian Orthodox Church in Africa, which is a staunch supporter of the Putin regime and its violent, unlawful war in Ukraine; underlines that this development raises significant questions regarding the broader geopolitical and ideological objectives of the Russian Federation in Africa;

    21. Deplores the fact that Rwanda announced the termination of its diplomatic relations with Belgium, and expresses its solidarity with Belgium;

    22. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Governments and Parliaments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, the African Union, the secretariats of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Southern African Development Community and the East African Community, and other relevant international bodies.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Türkiye’s alleged ties with radical Islamist groups in Syria – E-002865/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The fall of Assad’s criminal regime marks a historic moment for the Syrian people. The European Council Conclusions of 19 December 2024[1] stressed the historic opportunity to reunite and rebuild the country and underlined the importance of an inclusive and Syrian-led political process that meets the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people. The EU stands ready to support the new phase in Syria in coordination with regional partners, including Türkiye.

    Türkiye has an important role to play in the stability of Syria and the region, which is in the common interest of the EU and Türkiye. It is important that the good cooperation between the EU and Türkiye, which is also a member of the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh[2], continues in the fight against terrorism.

    Türkiye has legitimate security concerns and a legitimate right and responsibility to fight against terrorism, ensuring that this is done in accordance with the rule of law, respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms, and in full respect of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of neighbouring states and international law.

    In line with the Council Conclusions of June 2018[3], which were repeated regularly since then, Türkiye’s accession negotiations have effectively come to a standstill. No progress has been achieved in the areas of democracy, rule of law, fundamental rights and the independence of the judiciary.

    As a result, the Commission has substantially reduced the EU financial support to Türkiye under the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance[4] since 2018, and reoriented this funding towards the civil society, people-to-people contacts and the Green Deal-related common priorities.

    A large part of the current financial assistance goes towards supporting Syrian refugees (about 3 million) present in the country.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/jhlenhaj/euco-conclusions-19122024-en.pdf
    • [2]  https://theglobalcoalition.org/en/
    • [3]  https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/35863/st10555-en18.pdf
    • [4]  https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32021R1529

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Trump’s Peace Through Strength Is Correcting Course, Driving Results

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    After four years of foreign policy failures, President Donald J. Trump and his administration have made tremendous progress in restoring safety and security at home and abroad by implementing Peace through Strength. All we really needed was a new president.
    After President Trump demanded action, Mexico committed 10,000 of its own troops to our southern border and Canada deployed 10,000 of its own personnel to our northern border to help stem the flow of illegal immigration and illicit fentanyl into our country.
    President Trump designated deadly drug cartels and vicious transnational gangs as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, empowering law enforcement to make enormous progress arresting and deporting these violent terrorists.
    President Trump forced Colombia, Venezuela, and other countries to accept repatriation flights for their own citizens who were illegally in the U.S.
    President Trump’s unprecedented effort to secure the homeland has driven illegal border crossings to historic lows — down 95% over last year.
    President Trump provided key intelligence to the Pakistani government, which led to the arrest and extradition of the ISIS terrorist who orchestrated the deadly Abbey Gate bombing.
    President Trump increased U.S. counterterrorism activities and eliminated dozens of hardened terrorists — including a high-ranking ISIS attack planner in Somalia.
    President Trump reimposed maximum pressure on the Iranian regime to reign in their nuclear ambitions and support for terrorism across the Middle East.
    President Trump ordered strikes against Houthi terrorists, which have overwhelmed their leaders and networks and taken away their capabilities — not stopping “until they are no longer a threat to Freedom of Navigation.”
    President Trump’s pressure led Panama to exit China’s Belt and Road Initiative, a debt-trap diplomacy scheme the Chinese Communist Party uses to gain influence over developing nations — a massive milestone as the U.S. seeks to secure the Western Hemisphere from Chinese influence.
    President Trump’s leadership has secured the release of 39 U.S. citizens detained abroad — compared to just 80 citizens released across Biden’s four years in office.
    President Trump brokered a temporary ceasefire in Gaza to ensure the release of hostages, including an American citizen — a deal Biden was unable to secure.
    For the first time in three years, President Trump brought both Ukraine and Russia to the negotiating table for serious discussions around a peaceful resolution — engagements that continue in earnest.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Five Alleged Sinaloa Cartel Money Launderers Charged

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – Two federal grand jury indictments were unsealed in San Diego today against five alleged Sinaloa Cartel money launderers, including Alberto David Benguiat Jimenez, Israel Daniel Paez Vargas, Salvador Diaz Rodriguez, Christopher Ortega-Lomeli, and Christian Noe Amador Valenzuela. The indictments, returned in September and October 2022, charge the defendants with multiple drug trafficking and money laundering offenses. All defendants remain fugitives.

    To date, these money laundering investigations have resulted in charges against 51 defendants and the seizure of more than $4.1 million dollars and approximately 1,304 kilograms of methamphetamine, 34 kilograms of heroin, 11 kilograms of cocaine, and 14 kilograms of fentanyl.

    Four of the defendants – Benguiat Jimenez, Paez Vargas, Diaz Rodriguez and Amador Valezuela – along with Enrique Dann Esparragoza Rosas, who was previously charged, were also the target of sanctions imposed today by the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

    OFAC has identified the defendants and others as members of a money laundering network supporting the Sinaloa Cartel, one of the most notorious and violent drug trafficking organizations in the world, and a U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). The Sinaloa Cartel is responsible for a significant portion of the illicit fentanyl and other deadly drugs trafficked into the United States and has exploited multiple ports of entry along the southern border for its criminal activities. Please see https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sb0064.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Imperial Country District Office and Mexico City Country Office, along with the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation San Diego Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation San Diego Field Office, Homeland Security Investigations Calexico Office, and San Diego – Imperial County HIDTA are investigating these cases with assistance from the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

    These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew J. Sutton, Joshua Mellor, Victor White, and Paul Benjamin. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Owen Roth provided substantial assistance in these cases.

    DEFENDANTS                                            

    Case Number 22-cr-02386-TWR

    Israel Daniel Paez Vargas                                                     Age: 45                         Mexicali, MX

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Conspiracy to Import Controlled Substances, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 952, 960 and 963.

    Maximum Penalty: Mandatory minimum 10 years and up to life in prison, $10 million fine.

    Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 846.

    Maximum Penalty: Mandatory minimum 10 years and up to life in prison, $10 million fine.

    Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 1956(h).

    Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the monetary instrument or funds involved.

    Case Number 22-cr-02387-TWR

    Alberto David Benguiat Jimenez                                           Age: 43                      Mexico City, MX

    Salvador Diaz Rodriguez                                                       Age: 39                      Mexicali, MX

    Christian Noe Amador Valenzuela                                        Age: 36                      Mexicali, MX Christopher Ortega-Lomeli                                                       Age: 38                     Mexicali, MX

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. §1956(h).

    Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the monetary instrument or funds involved.

    Case Number 22-cr-02185-BAS                                         

    Enrique Dann Esparragoza Rosas                                          Age: 39                        Culiacan, MX

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. §1956(h).

    Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the monetary instrument or funds involved.

    Hobbs Act Extortion, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 1951(a)

    Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison, and $250,000 fine

    INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

    Drug Enforcement Administration

    Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation

    Federal Bureau of Investigation

    Homeland Security Investigations

    San Diego – Imperial County HIDTA

    Imperial Valley Law Enforcement Coordination Center – Intelligence

    Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs

    Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control

    *The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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

    The High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program, created by Congress with the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988, provides coordination and assistance to Federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies operating in areas determined to be critical drug-trafficking regions of the United States. This grant program is administered by the Executive Office of the President – Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). There are currently 33 HIDTAs, and HIDTA-designated counties are located in 50 states, as well as in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo – defending religious freedom and security – B10-0212/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    B10‑0212/2025

    European Parliament resolution on targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo – defending religious freedom and security

    (2025/2612(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948 and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights of 1966,

    – having regard to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, in particular Article 10 thereof on freedom of thought, conscience and religion,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC),

    – having regard to the statements by the European External Action Service on the security and human rights situation in the DRC,

    – having regard to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights,

    – having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the DRC is experiencing an escalation of violence, particularly in the eastern regions, where armed groups such as the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) have targeted Christian communities;

    B. whereas between 12 and 15 February 2025, more than 70 Christians were found dead in a Protestant church near Kazanga, North Kivu province in the DRC; whereas the victims had been beheaded by the Islamist ADF, an affiliate militia of Islamic State Central Africa Wilayat (ISCAP);

    C. whereas according to BBC Monitoring analysis, ISCAP is now the deadliest armed group in the DRC; whereas from 1 January to 30 June 2024, Islamic State claimed responsibility for killing a total of 698 African Christians; whereas ISCAP claimed responsibility for killing 639 Christians;

    D. whereas the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) has amplified Pope Francis’s appeals for an end to the violence and has initiated discussions between the government and rebel groups, with consultations ongoing; whereas CENCO and the Church of Christ in Congo have launched an appeal for 2025 to be a ‘Year of Peace and Good Coexistence’ to address the ongoing violence;

    E. whereas churches and Christian institutions have increasingly become targets of violence and persecution by terrorist groups, including the ADF, which has pledged allegiance to Islamic State; whereas the ADF, originally an armed Ugandan rebel movement, has evolved into a jihadist terrorist group operating in the eastern DRC, conducting mass killings, attacking civilian populations and disrupting agricultural and economic activities; whereas despite military operations by Congolese and Ugandan forces, the ADF continues to perpetrate violence and instability in the region;

    F. whereas ISIS-DRC continues to pose a severe threat in the region, carrying out deadly attacks against civilians, including the January 2025 massacre in Makoko, North Kivu, and the December 2024 attack in Batangi-Mbau; whereas recent operations by Interpol and Afripol have led to the arrest of 37 suspected terrorists across East Africa, yet ISIS-DRC remains active, exploiting instability and weak governance to sustain its violent campaign;

    G. whereas the appointment of a new EU Special Envoy for religious freedom by the Commission on 7 December 2022 followed a three-year standstill, during which the former Special Envoy who had been appointed in 2021 returned his mandate after a few months to assume another position in a national government;

    H. whereas in 2016 the Hungarian Government set up a special department for persecuted Christians around the world; whereas the State Secretariat for the Aid of Persecuted Christians supports, through its ‘Hungary Helps’ programme, faith-based initiatives in more than 50 countries, with hundreds of humanitarian and development projects; whereas in 2019 the Italian Government established a fund for persecuted Christian communities; whereas in May 2022 the Italian Government led by Mario Draghi appointed a special envoy for the protection of religious freedom and interreligious dialogue; whereas in 2023 the Italian Government led by Giorgia Meloni appointed a special envoy attached to the foreign ministry to protect Christian communities around the world;

    I. whereas over the past decade, the EU has provided significant financial assistance to the DRC, including over EUR 272 million in humanitarian aid between 2023 and 2025 to address urgent needs such as shelter, clean water, food and education for vulnerable populations; whereas the EU allocated EUR 584 million through the European Development Fund for the period 2008-2013 to support stability and development projects; whereas the EU has also been involved in security and peacekeeping efforts, deploying missions such as the EU Security Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (EUSEC) and the EU Police Mission for the DRC (EUPOL RD Congo) to assist in rebuilding the Congolese security forces;

    L. whereas the DRC has consistently ranked among the most corrupt countries in the world, scoring 20 out of 100 in the 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International and ranking 162nd out of 180 countries; whereas a conservative estimate of 30 % of the approximately EUR 1.2 billion in aid funded with EU taxpayers’ money, provided between 2008 and 2024, suggests that at least EUR 360 million may have been misappropriated by corrupt officials, seriously undermining efforts to enhance governance, stability, safety and living conditions in the DRC;

    M. whereas the EU and Rwanda signed a memorandum of understanding on sustainable raw materials value chains in February 2024, granting the EU access to sources of raw materials and rare earth elements in Rwanda; whereas several UN reports state that Rwanda supports the M23 group as a means of extracting and exporting minerals from the DRC; whereas the US Embassy in the DRC confirmed that Congolese minerals are being transported, with the support of armed groups, to Rwanda, where they are subsequently sold to international buyers;

    N. whereas this conflict has been overshadowed by global attention focused on crises in the Middle East and Ukraine, despite over 10 million lives lost in years of violence and an estimated 3 000 people killed in just a few days;

    1. Strongly condemns the murder of Christians in the DRC, and all acts of violence targeting them, and expresses its solidarity with the victims;

    2. Notes that the DRC ranks 35th on the Open Doors’ World Watch List 2025 of countries where Christians are persecuted because of their faith; emphasises that Christians face severe persecution and violence especially from Islamist groups; emphasises that the ADF abduct and kill Christians and attack churches, leading to terror, insecurity and population displacement; emphasises that the M23 group also targets Christian civilians; is concerned about the involvement of the M23 group in the widespread violence in the DRC; takes note of the EU sanctions against people holding leading positions in the Rwanda Defence Force and M23; demands that the Rwandan Government withdraw its troops from the DRC and cease its cooperation with M23; notes that the DRC ranks fourth on Global Christian Relief’s Red List of countries where Christians have been forced to flee their homes due to violence;

    3. Is worried about the growing threat posed by ISCAP in Central Africa; notes that the increasing number of violent attacks demonstrates both ISCAP’s willingness and operational capability to intensify its campaign of terror and violent attacks against Christians; is worried that the expansion of Islamic State in Central Africa poses a danger to the security of the whole continent;

    4. Is of the opinion that by stalling the process of mandating an EU Special Envoy for religious freedom for almost three years, the Commission signalled to the outside world that the issue of the persecution of Christians worldwide is not one of the EU’s priorities; notes that this reflects its policy in the EU, only appointing a coordinator for combating Muslim hatred, and neglecting the rising violence against Christians in the EU; finds this lack of commitment highly regrettable and problematic in the light of the rising violence against Christians worldwide; is of the opinion that the significant delay in appointing the EU Special Envoy for religious freedom undermines the credibility of the EU’s commitment to protecting religious freedom and belief beyond its borders;

    5. Welcomes the ‘Hungary Helps’ programme, which helps Christian communities rebuild after persecution and manages projects, reconstructing institutions and improving education and healthcare after violent persecution by Islamic terrorist groups; emphasises that the Hungarian initiative, enabling people to build their future in their own country, is also an important migration prevention policy; welcomes the fact that the ‘Hungary Helps’ programme and the Reformed Church of Hungary will give donations to help the victims of the Islamist terrorist attacks on Christians in the DRC; welcomes the cooperation between the Hungarian and Italian Governments to undertake joint initiatives in Africa, with a focus on supporting persecuted Christians; hopes that Hungarian and Italian policy will inspire other Member States to follow suit;

    6. Calls for the EU and the EU Special Envoy for religious freedom to take all the necessary diplomatic and political initiatives to protect Christians in the DRC;

    7. Calls on the DRC and its authorities to conduct a thorough investigation of the murders and to ensure that the criminals responsible are brought to justice;

    8. Calls on the DRC and its authorities to take immediate and effective action to protect Christian communities and all religious minorities from further violence and persecution;

    9. Calls on the DRC and its authorities to provide financial and logistical support for local and international humanitarian organisations assisting the victims of religious persecution in the DRC;

    10. Welcomes the efforts of religious leaders to foster peace and dialogue and urges all parties involved to seek constructive solutions rather than resorting to violence;

    11. Encourages regional and international African bodies such as the African Union and the East African Community to take the lead in addressing the conflict, as they are the best suited for this task; encourages these African bodies to enhance counter-terrorism cooperation, intelligence-sharing and military coordination against extremist groups operating in the region;

    12. Calls strongly for the EU to work with regional and international actors to protect civilians and Christian communities and bring the perpetrators of these criminal acts to justice;

    13. Emphasises the need to address these crimes at the African Union level;

    14. Calls on the Commission to suspend the implementation of the memorandum of understanding on sustainable raw materials value chains signed with Rwanda in February 2024, in the light of credible reports linking Rwanda to the illicit exploitation and export of minerals from the eastern DRC, including through its support for the M23 armed group; stresses that the continuation of this agreement risks fuelling the ongoing conflict, undermining regional stability and leading to the further killing of Christians in the region;

    15. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the EU Special Envoy for religious freedom, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, the Special Rapporteur on Torture, Degrading and Inhuman Treatment, the African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, the Government and Parliament of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the African Union and the East African Community.

     

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security – B10-0216/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Adam Bielan, Mariusz Kamiński, Sebastian Tynkkynen, Cristian Terheş, Maciej Wąsik, Aurelijus Veryga, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, Małgorzata Gosiewska, Waldemar Tomaszewski, Joachim Stanisław Brudziński
    on behalf of the ECR Group

    B10‑0216/2025

    European Parliament resolution on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security

    (2025/2612(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which affirms the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, as well as the right to manifest one’s religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance,

    – having regard to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which recognises the right of individuals to freedom of religion, including freedom to worship and observe religious practices,

    – having regard to the Constitution of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which guarantees the right to freedom of conscience and the free exercise of religious worship for all citizens,

    – having regard to the UN Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief, adopted by the UN General Assembly on 25 November 1981,

    – having regard to the European Convention on Human Rights, particularly Article 9 thereof, which guarantees the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion,

    – having regard to reports from the UN and various other human rights organisations, detailing the rise in attacks and indiscriminate killings and ongoing violations of the freedom of belief by armed groups, including Islamist militants, against Christian communities in the eastern DRC region,

    – having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the DRC has endured decades of widespread violence and instability in its eastern provinces, exacerbated by armed conflicts that have created fertile ground for the emergence of over 100 extremist groups targeting vulnerable populations, including religious communities;

    B. whereas Christians in the DRC’s eastern provinces are facing an increasing number of targeted attacks, killings and abductions as well as the destruction of their property, perpetrated by armed groups with extremist ideologies;

    C. whereas, according to local reports, on 13 February 2025, 70 Christians were abducted in the village of Mayba and later found dead in a church in nearby Kasanga; whereas the attack was reportedly committed by militants of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF);

    D. whereas the ADF is one of the most prominent extremist groups with explicitly religious objectives, especially since its leader pledged allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in 2019;

    E. whereas in May 2020, the ADF participated in ISIS’s global ‘Battle of Attrition’, specifically targeting Christian communities in seven neighbourhoods throughout north-eastern DRC; whereas in 2021, a prominent local Muslim leader received death threats from the ADF, and he was later gunned down; whereas in 2023, the ADF bombed services at a Pentecostal church in Kasindi, killing 14 people; whereas in January 2024, the ADF killed eight people in Beni during an attack on a Pentecostal church and, in May 2024, ADF assailants reportedly killed 14 Catholics in North Kivu province for refusing to convert to Islam; whereas the ADF also reportedly executed 11 Christians in the village of Ndimo in Ituri province and kidnapped several others;

    F. whereas in addition to the ADF, several armed groups in the eastern DRC have politicised religion, targeting religious infrastructure as part of their insurgency strategies;

    G. whereas in 2024, 355 people were reportedly killed in the DRC for their faith, compared to 261 in 2023, while an estimated 10 000 people were internally displaced because of their faith, marking a tenfold increase from 2023; whereas houses have been looted and burned down, schools relocated, churches and healthcare facilities closed, and several Christian villages have been abandoned altogether;

    H. whereas the attacks on Christians are part of a broader trend of escalating violence and religious intolerance, with religious leaders and communities increasingly finding themselves under threat in areas controlled by armed groups;

    I. whereas the recent activities of the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group have further exacerbated the vulnerability of religious communities in the region;

    J. whereas converts to Christianity from Islam and indigenous religions face pressure from their families to revert to their former faiths;

    K. whereas local and international human rights organisations have documented numerous instances of religious violence in the DRC, highlighting the failure of the state to provide adequate protection; whereas, while the DRC Government has demonstrated a strong intention to address the impacts of armed group violence in the eastern DRC, other recent developments call into question the government’s commitment to safeguarding religious freedom specifically;

    L. whereas the EU has repeatedly affirmed its commitment to the promotion and protection of religious freedom globally, and has taken steps to combat religious persecution and intolerance in various parts of the world; whereas Christians are the most persecuted religious group in the world;

    M. whereas Parliament has consistently called for the strengthening of international efforts to combat religious persecution and to hold accountable those responsible for attacks on religious communities;

    1. Strongly condemns the targeted attacks against Christian communities in the DRC, including killings, abductions and the destruction of religious property, and calls for an immediate halt to such acts of violence;

    2. Is deeply concerned about the situation of Christians and Christian converts from Islam and indigenous religions in the region, who are facing a severe and escalating crisis owing to a combination of militant threats, familial pressure and political interference;

    3. Expresses its deep concern about the violence committed by the ADF and other extremist groups in the eastern DRC and underlines that the chaos created by the M23 rebel group has further exacerbated the vulnerability of religious communities;

    4. Calls for the immediate cessation of all forms of violence and for the commitment of all parties involved in the ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC to respect international humanitarian law;

    5. Calls on the DRC Government to counter extremist propaganda and provide armed security at churches and other religious buildings;

    6. Calls for the establishment of early warning mechanisms to more effectively prevent and respond to attacks by the ADF and other armed groups against civilians;

    7. Stresses the critical importance of supporting the DRC Government in strengthening the rule of law, improving security and ensuring the protection of religious communities at risk, while ensuring that perpetrators of attacks against religious communities are brought to justice;

    8. Echoes the calls for international solidarity in defending religious freedom and the protection of religious minorities in conflict zones, particularly in the DRC, while addressing the root causes of violent extremism in the DRC and its neighbourhood;

    9. Encourages the establishment of safe zones in the eastern DRC, where religious communities and other civilians who have been targeted can have access to legal services and psychological support;

    10. Stresses the need for a comprehensive approach that combines humanitarian aid, peacebuilding initiatives and support for the rule of law so as to ensure lasting protection for all religious communities in the DRC, including Christians; underlines the role of religious communities in the DRC in promoting peace, social cohesion and the well-being of local communities;

    11. Urges the EU to uphold its commitment to the promotion of religious freedom and the protection of religious communities, ensuring that the rights of these groups are prioritised in the EU’s external policies;

    12. Calls for enhanced cooperation between the EU and the African Union, as well as regional actors, to promote stability and prevent extremist groups from using religion as a tool for violence and division;

    13. Notes, with concern, the growing influence of the Russian Orthodox Church in Africa, which is a staunch supporter of the Putin regime and its violent, unlawful war in Ukraine; underlines that, on 29 December 2021, the Russian Orthodox Church officially announced the formation of the Patriarchate Exarchate of Africa, which consists of two dioceses: the South African Diocese, encompassing 24 countries, and the North African Diocese, covering 31 countries;

    14. Underlines that this move significantly expands the influence of the Russian Orthodox Church across the African continent, encroaching on the jurisdiction of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Alexandria, which holds the official canonical responsibility for the entire African continent; underlines that this development raises significant questions regarding the broader geopolitical and ideological objectives of the Russian Federation in Africa;

    15. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the European External Action Service, the African Union, the Joint Council of Ministers and Joint Parliamentary Assembly of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States and the EU, the Secretary-General of the United Nations and the Government and Parliament of the DRC.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Middlesex County Man Charged for Making False Statement About Terrorist Organization Association on U.S. Citizenship Application

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    NEWARK, N.J. – A federal grand jury in the District of New Jersey returned a two-count indictment against a New Jersey man for falsely stating on an application for naturalization that he had never been associated with a terrorist organization, U.S. Attorney John Giordano announced. 

    Gafur Abdudzhamilovich Aliev, 44, of Edison, New Jersey, is charged with one count of making a false statement on an application for naturalization and one count of perjury. Aliev is scheduled to appear this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cathy L. Waldor via videoconference. 

    According to the indictment, between in or around January 2018 and in or around January 2020, Aliev was a moderator and/or member of numerous channels on a social media application with encryption features that targeted members, associates, supporters, and potential recruits of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (“ISIS”).  On or about August 7, 2020, Aliev told Individual-1, in substance, that he previously sent money to ISIS for the purchase of weapons, and on or about August 16, 2020, Aliev additionally told Individual-1, in substance, that sending even a small amount of money ($100 to $400) to ISIS was “ok.”  On or about September 28, 2020, Aliev further told Individual-1, in substance, that those who commit jihad in the name of Allah should commit jihad financially and physically and that without financial support, jihad could not be performed, as money was needed to purchase equipment to conduct jihad.

    On or about December 26, 2020, Aliev, under penalty of perjury, falsely stated in his application for naturalization that he had never been a member of, or in any way associated with, a terrorist organization.

    The false statement on a naturalization application count carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  The perjury count carries a maximum potential penalty of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    U.S. Attorney Giordano credited special agents of the FBI and task force officers of the Joint Terrorism Task Force, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly, deportation officers of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, under the direction of Field Office Director John Tsoukaris, the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, and the Edison Police Department, under the direction of Chief Thomas Bryan, with the investigation leading to the charges. He also thanks U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for its assistance with the case. 

    The government is represented by Joyce M. Malliet, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s National Security Unit, with assistance from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Counterterrorism Section of the National Security Division.

    The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

                                                                          ###

    Defense counsel: Naz Ahmad, Esq.

                               Linda Foster, AFPD, Esq.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s use of the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelans to El Salvador sparks legal questions likely to reach the Supreme Court

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jennifer Selin, Associate Professor of Law, Arizona State University

    Prisoners stand in a cell as Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem speaks during a tour of the Terrorist Confinement Center in Tecoluca, El Salvador, on March 26, 2025. AP Photo/Alex Brandon

    A federal appeals court on March 26, 2025, upheld a temporary block on President Donald Trump’s deportation of hundreds of Venezuelan immigrants, including alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, to a maximum security prison in El Salvador.

    The court was skeptical of Trump’s use of the Alien Enemies Act to defend the deportations. The act, passed in 1798, gives the president the power to detain and remove people from the United States in times of war.

    On March 28, Trump asked the Supreme Court for permission under the act to resume deporting Venezuelans to El Salvador while legal battles continue.

    Attorney General Pam Bondi previously said the deportations are necessary as part of “modern-day warfare” against narco-terrorists.

    Nanya Gupta, policy director of the American Immigration Council, is among experts who note that the Trump administration’s evidence against the migrants, which relied in part on the immigrants’ tattoos and deleted social media pictures, is “flimsy.”

    Those who are challenging Trump’s actions in court say the administration has violated constitutional principles of due process. That’s because it gave the migrants no opportunity to refute the government’s claims that they were gang members.

    But what is due process? And how does the government balance this important right against national security?

    As a constitutional law professor who studies government institutions, I recognize the delicate balance government must strike in protecting civil rights and liberties while allowing presidential administrations to preserve national security and foreign policy interests.

    Ultimately, the U.S. Constitution’s framers left it to the courts to determine this balance.

    Due process explained

    The phrase “due process of law” goes back to at least 1215. That’s when England’s Magna Carta established the principle that government is not above the law.

    This principle guided the framers of the U.S. Constitution. The Fifth Amendment and 14th Amendment, for example, prohibit federal and state governments from depriving people of their “life, liberty, or property, without due process of law.”

    But what constitutes due process has varied over time.

    Government officials see the limits of their power from one lens. People affected by the exercise of that power view it differently.

    To combat this problem, the Constitution’s framers placed the judiciary in charge of determining what due process means and when people’s due process rights have been violated.

    Court decisions on the issue traditionally weigh the government’s interests in taking specific actions against claims that those actions violate people’s civil rights and liberties.

    Even when the law authorizes the president to detain people, historically the Supreme Court has held that those people should receive notice of the reason for their detention, and they should have a fair opportunity to rebut the government’s claims.

    When the high court, for example, heard cases about the rights of detainees held in Guantanamo Bay by President George W. Bush after 9/11, it ruled that principles of due process apply to noncitizens and even those whom the government designates as enemy combatants.

    One of the important considerations in legal analysis of the procedures the government must follow when depriving people of their liberty is the risk that the government will make a mistake in its decision-making.

    For example, some representatives of the deported Venezuelan migrants argue that they have been falsely accused of having ties to Tren de Aragua based on their country of origin and tattoos. They claim that without more investigation, including an opportunity for the migrants to present their evidence refuting the government’s claims, there is a large risk that government will mistakenly deport people.

    When can the president avoid due process?

    In some cases, the president can skirt traditional due process considerations in pursuit of broader policy concerns.

    As put by U.S. District Judge James Boasberg in his initial order blocking the deportations, the president’s action in this area implicate “a host of complicated legal issues, including fundamental and sensitive questions about the often-circumscribed extent of judicial power in matters of foreign policy and national security.”

    Before Trump took executive action using the Alien Enemies Act, the measure had only been used three times – all during times of war.

    The act was part of a series of four laws passed in 1798 known as the Alien and Sedition Acts. These laws, among other things, gave the president the power to deport any noncitizen thought to be dangerous.

    A woman holds a sign during a rally on March 18, 2025, in Caracas, Venezuela, to protest the deportation from the U.S. of alleged members of a Venezuelan gang, who were transferred to an El Salvador prison.
    AP Photo/Ariana Cubillos

    President Thomas Jefferson allowed most of the acts to expire. But Jefferson and subsequent presidents kept in place the provisions that empowered the president to detain or deport noncitizens in times of war, “invasion” or “predatory incursion” by foreign powers.

    Today, the law authorizes the president to apprehend and remove people over the age of 14 that the administration determines to be “alien enemies.” However, it places procedural requirements on the president.

    Notably, the president’s ability to act requires a declared war against or an “invasion or predatory excursion” by a foreign nation. In such an event, the president must issue a proclamation saying he plans on using the act against perceived enemies.

    To justify the Venezuelan deportations, Trump issued a proclamation on March 15 claiming Tren de Aragua is perpetrating and threatening an invasion against the U.S.

    But the act also says people considered alien enemies must be given reasonable time to settle their affairs and voluntarily depart from the country. And it gives the courts power to regulate whether such persons even fall within the definition of “alien enemies.”

    The Venezuelan migrants claim Trump has violated these parts of the act.

    The current fight

    This is where things become complicated.

    All parties in the case acknowledge that the Alien Enemies Act grants the president authority to act. However, the argument is whether the government has given people the opportunity to challenge the government’s decision to classify them as “alien enemies.”

    Trump claims Tren de Aragua is a foreign terrorist organization engaged in warfare against the U.S. in the form of narco-terrorism – the use of drug trade to influence government operations.

    His administration argues that it doesn’t have to tell migrants it considers them alien enemies. And the administration says it’s not required to give them time to ask the courts to step in before they are deported.

    In a March 24 hearing on the issue, D.C. Circuit Court Judge Patricia A. Millet noted that during World War II, even the “Nazis got better treatment under the Alien Enemies Act.”

    The dispute has prompted international questions about the legality of the U.S. government’s deportation procedures and its treatment of the migrants.

    And Democratic members of Congress have called for an investigation into the administration’s deportation practices.

    The case will most likely head to the Supreme Court to determine what due process means and when the president can act in the name of national security to limit people’s due process rights. That’s just as the framers of the Constitution intended.

    Jennifer L. Selin has received funding and/or support for her research on the executive branch from the Administrative Conference of the United States. The views in this piece are those of the author and do not represent the position of the Administrative Conference or the federal government.

    – ref. Trump’s use of the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelans to El Salvador sparks legal questions likely to reach the Supreme Court – https://theconversation.com/trumps-use-of-the-alien-enemies-act-to-deport-venezuelans-to-el-salvador-sparks-legal-questions-likely-to-reach-the-supreme-court-253011

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security – B10-0217/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    B10‑0217/2025

    European Parliament resolution on targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security

    (2025/2612(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), notably that of 13 February 2025 on the escalation of violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo[1],

    – having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A. whereas the situation in the eastern DRC continues to deteriorate sharply; whereas following the advancement of the March 23 Movement (M23) armed rebel group in January 2025, backed by Rwandan forces, and its seizing of Goma and Bukavu, attacks and violence continue to be perpetuated; whereas the M23 is continuing its offensive, notably in North and South Kivu;

    B. whereas in March 2025, President Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda issued a joint statement announcing a ceasefire; whereas despite this announcement, the violence continues;

    C. whereas around 100 separate armed groups are estimated to be operating in the eastern DRC; whereas destabilisation in the country is being driven by a series of overlapping issues, including ethnic divisions, clashes between government forces and non-state actors, including those backed by Rwanda, and the exploitation of critical raw materials;

    D. whereas there continue to be a high number of civilian casualties and displaced people; whereas civilians are being attacked indiscriminately, in particular in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri;

    E. whereas the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria – Democratic Republic of the Congo (ISIS-DRC), known as the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), attacks civilians in all communities in the DRC; whereas ADF attacks have included targeting churches and religious leaders; whereas Christianity is the majority religion in the DRC; whereas most victims of ADF attacks have been Christian;

    F. whereas the humanitarian situation remains dire; whereas support for shelter, medical supplies, sanitation, water and food continues to be severely lacking in the DRC and neighbouring countries; whereas since January 2025, an estimated 70 000 people have crossed into Burundi to flee the conflict in the DRC;

    G. whereas woman and girls face widespread gender-based and sexual violence, including the use of rape as a weapon of war;

    1. Expresses deep concern at the alarming continuation of violence; deplores the loss of life and the attacks, both indiscriminate and targeted, against civilians;

    2. Underlines the urgent need for the stabilisation of the country and the implementation of an immediate ceasefire; reiterates its call on the M23 to halt its territorial advances and withdraw from the territory of the DRC, and for all parties to observe a cessation of violence;

    3. Urges the DRC authorities to cooperate with international organisations, including the United Nations, to ensure that human rights abuses are investigated and the perpetrators held to account, including those targeting attacks on ethnic and religious communities;

    4. Reiterates its call for all parties, including armed groups operating in the eastern DRC, to allow and facilitate humanitarian access to address the urgent need for essential services in the eastern DRC and neighbouring countries, notably Burundi; emphasises that humanitarian workers must be able to operate safely to deliver life-saving assistance to Congolese civilians; stresses that this is a central obligation under international humanitarian law, and that perpetrators violating these obligations should be held to account;

    5. Deplores the continued sexual and gender-based violence perpetrated against women and girls, in particular the use of rape as a weapon of war; urges the European External Action Service, the Government of the DRC and the international community to increase medical and psychological support for victims, including access to medical abortion care; recalls that sexual violence is a war crime and that those responsible must be held to account;

    6. Underlines that a lasting peace must be found through a return to political processes and cooperation; calls on the Government of the DRC and all armed groups to commit to the Nairobi Process for resumed national dialogue;

    7. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Council, the Commission and the President, Government and Parliament of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security – B10-0215/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Lukas Mandl, David McAllister, Andrzej Halicki, Michael Gahler, Sebastião Bugalho, Željana Zovko, François‑Xavier Bellamy, Christophe Gomart, Ingeborg Ter Laak, Andrey Kovatchev, Miriam Lexmann, Rasa Juknevičienė, Antonio López‑Istúriz White
    on behalf of the PPE Group

    B10‑0215/2025

    European Parliament resolution on the targeted attacks against Christians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: defending religious freedom and security

    (2025/2612(RSP))

    The European Parliament,

    – having regard to its previous resolutions on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC),

    – having regard to Rule 136(2) of its Rules of Procedure,
     

    A. whereas the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), affiliated to the Islamic State’s Central Africa Province, have been linked to an attack on the village of Mukondi, in the eastern DRC, in which, according to local authorities, at least 44 civilians were killed; whereas the group claimed 48 attacks in December 2024 alone, killing over 200 people;

    B. whereas the ADF has a long history of committing terrorist attacks in the eastern DRC; whereas the Congolese Catholic Church claims that the ADF is responsible for the deaths of around 6 000 civilians in Beni between 2013 and 2021 and more than 2 000 in Bunia in 2020 alone; whereas between January and June 2024, 639 Christians were killed in the DRC by jihadists and half of them beheaded; whereas many of these attacks directly target the Christian population of these regions; whereas Christians in particular have been deliberately targeted by various extremist or jihadist groups for many years; whereas the Catholic bishops of the DRC spoke out in an April 2021 statement about the threat of the ‘Islamization of the region [North Kivu] as a sort of deeper strategy for a long-term negative influence on the general political situation of the country’;

    C. whereas the ADF officially pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group (ISIS) on 7 November 2019; whereas the UN Group of Experts on the DRC warned in May 2024 that the armed group had established strong networks in prisons, particularly in Kinshasa where ADF detainees were active in recruiting and mobilising combatants and collaborators, using not only ideological means, but also coercion, deception, abduction and financial incentives to attract members and collaborators; whereas the ADF’s attacks need to be seen in the wider African context of a rise in the number of Islamist groups, in particular those affiliated to ISIS, in the Sahel region, the Horn of Africa, Mozambique, Nigeria and the DRC; whereas the ADF has been designated a terrorist group by Uganda and the United States;

    D. whereas the Armed Forces of the DRC have been conducting a joint military offensive, operation Shujaa, with the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces against the ADF and other insurgent forces in the eastern DRC since November 2021; whereas the conflict between the government and M23 rebels could lead to a decrease in the funds, personnel and equipment being allocated to this counter-terrorism operation;

    E. whereas the region has been plagued by decades of cyclical violence, causing a security and humanitarian crisis and leading to the further destabilisation of the country; whereas the conflict between the Government of the DRC, the armed rebel group M23 and other militias has already led to the forceful internal displacement of 4.6 million people in the eastern DRC; whereas the DRC also hosts over 520 000 refugees and asylum seekers from neighbouring countries, while 1.1 million refugees from the DRC are being hosted in neighbouring countries of the region, more than half of them in Uganda;

    F. whereas North Kivu is a resource-rich region, with vast supplies of critical raw materials, including cobalt, gold and tin, which are necessary for the global digital and energy transitions; whereas it is known that the ADF has been relying on, among other sources of financing, the illegal exploitation of these resources to fund their activities; whereas Christians face difficulties and violent attacks from Islamist militants, particularly in the North Kivu province;

    G. whereas the DRC is ranked 35th in the World Watch List and has even risen six places in recent years, with 2024 seeing an escalation in attacks against Christians by the ADF;

    H. whereas owing to the absence of specific laws to protect Christians, Christian women and girls are especially vulnerable to domestic violence, forced marriages, abduction, rape, trafficking and sexual slavery;

    1. Condemns in the strongest terms the terrorist attacks and targeted massacre of Christians carried out by the ADF in the eastern DRC; expresses its solidarity with the families of the victims and with Christian communities;

    2. Strongly condemns the ADF and other rebel groups, such as M23, and their egregious human rights abuses, which amount to crimes against humanity in accordance with the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC); is extremely concerned about this terrorist group’s deliberate targeting of Christians; underlines the fact that there must be no impunity for the perpetrators of these acts and that those responsible should be referred to the ICC; encourages the establishment of an international commission of inquiry to examine the human rights violations committed in the DRC, renewed investigations in North Kivu by the ICC’s Office of the Prosecutor and the creation of a special tribunal for atrocity crimes in the DRC, including crimes committed against Christian communities; backs the efforts of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo and the Church of Christ in Congo, which launched the ‘Social pact for peace and coexistence in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Great Lakes Region’ with the aim of restoring peace in the country’s eastern provinces;

    3. Supports the international efforts against the ADF, including the Shujaa counter-terrorism operation carried out jointly by DRC and Ugandan armed forces; encourages the EU Member States to consider ways of contributing to these efforts, including increased efforts to trace and interdict ISIS secret funds held overseas and to trace any raw materials stemming from their illegal exploitation by the ADF; calls for the EU to support the necessary capacity building and expertise to combat ADF ideology and rhetoric, particularly within the Muslim communities of both Uganda and Congo, to prevent recruitment among those communities; requests the application of the EU global human rights sanctions regime to those responsible for planning, ordering or participating in the killing of Christians in the DRC;

    4. Reiterates its full support for the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) in protecting civilians and stabilising the region; urges the EU to cooperate with all actors on the ground, in particular MONUSCO, to ensure the protection of civilians in the eastern DRC; calls on the UN to work towards a stronger mandate for MONUSCO in order to enable peacemaking; calls on the UN to ensure the protection of civilians and respect for international humanitarian law;

    5. Confirms its commitment to freedom of thought, conscience and religion as a fundamental human right guaranteed by international legal instruments to which most of the world’s countries have committed, and as a right that is recognised as having universal value and is enshrined in the Congolese constitution;

    6. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Government and Parliament of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the African Union, the secretariats of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Southern African Development Community and the East African Community, and other relevant international bodies.

     

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs detects case of non-registered precious metals and stones dealer carrying out specified transactions

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs yesterday (March 27) detected a case involving a local company that conducted multiple transactions of precious stones and diamond jewelleries, with each transaction valued at over HK$120,000, without registration under the Dealers in Precious Metals and Stones Regulatory Regime. A director of the company was arrested.
     
    The investigation is ongoing. The arrested person has been released on bail pending further investigation.
     
    According to the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (Cap. 615), the Regime came into effect on April 1, 2023. Any person who is seeking to carry on a business of dealing in precious metals and stones in Hong Kong and engage in any transaction(s) (whether making or receiving a payment) with a total value at or above HK$120,000 in Hong Kong is required to register with the Commissioner of Customs and Excise. Any dealer, other than a registrant, who claims to be a registrant, claims to be authorised to carry out, or carries out any cash or non-cash transaction(s) with a total value at or above HK$120,000 is liable to a maximum fine of HK$100,000 and imprisonment for six months upon conviction.
     
    Hong Kong Customs reminds all dealers that the transitional period for registration under the Regime has ended. Any dealers in precious metals and stones must obtain the relevant registration before they can carry out any cash or non-cash transaction(s) with a total value at or above HK$120,000.
     
    For the forms, procedures and guidelines to submit applications for registration, please visit the website for Dealers in Precious Metals and Stones Registration System (www.drs.customs.gov.hk) or Hong Kong Customs’ webpage (www.customs.gov.hk/en/service-enforcement-information/anti-money-laundering/supervision-of-dealers-in-precious-metals-and-ston/index.html).
     
    Members of the public may report any suspected transactions involving precious metals and stones with a total value at or above HK$120,000 conducted without the required registration 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).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Forces Conduct Significant Kinetic Strike Targeting ISIS-Somalia

    Source: United States AFRICOM

    In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike against multiple ISIS-Somalia targets on March 29, 2025.

    The airstrike occurred Southeast of Bosasso, Puntland, in Northeastern Somalia.

    AFRICOM’s initial assessment is that multiple ISIS-Somalia operatives were killed and no civilians were harmed.

    ISIS-Somalia has proved both its will and capability to attack U.S. and partner forces. This group’s malicious efforts threaten U.S. security interests.

    AFRICOM, alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take action to degrade ISIS-Somalia’s ability to plan and conduct attacks that threaten the U.S. homeland, our forces, and our civilians abroad.

    Specific details about the operation will not be released to ensure continued operations security.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Fly-By: March 28, 2025

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    Pfluger Fly-By: March 28, 2025

    Washington, March 28, 2025

    March 28, 2025

    Friend,

    Welcome back to the weekly Pfluger Fly-By, a collection of events and happenings to keep you updated on everything I am doing week by week to represent you in Congress.

    This week, I was honored to have my good friend and fellow wingman, Colonel Shurtleff, testify on behalf of my legislation, the ACES Act, I joined Mornings with Maria on Fox Business to discuss a wide variety of topics, I chaired a Committee on Homeland Security’s Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence legislative markup that included two of my bills, I questioned the President and CEO of ERCOT on grid reliability in Texas, and much more!

    I have included some photos and highlights from the week. You can also find information on how my office can help you with any federal problems you may be having. As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can ever be of assistance.

    Best,

    Colonel Shurtleff Testifies Before Congress on the ACES Act

    This week, I was honored to have my good friend and fellow wingman, Colonel Andy “Pablo” Shurtleff, testify before the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs on the need for my legislation, the ACES Act, which addresses cancer incidence in military aviators. Colonel Shurtleff is actively battling cancer as a result of his service in the cockpit.

    When brave men and women volunteer for our nation, they shouldn’t face a second battle against cancer without proper government support. The ACES Act directs the VA to partner with the National Academies of Sciences to study cancer prevalence among military aviators and identify service-connected factors, ultimately saving lives through earlier detection, developing targeted screening protocols, and ensuring our veterans receive the specialized care they’ve earned.

    As an Air Force fighter pilot with over 20 years of service, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible dedication, bravery, and resilience of our nation’s aviators. But I’ve also seen many of my brothers and sisters fight their toughest battles not in the air but in hospital rooms against cancer. I thank Colonel Shurtleff for his brave testimony before Congress on this crucial issue on behalf of military aviators. Please join me in praying for Colonel Shurtleff and his family as he continues his treatment.

    Watch my full line of questioning with Colonel Shurtleff here or by clicking the image below.

    Goodfellow Vietnam War Commemoration Ceremony

    Today, I was delighted to be back in TX-11 where I had the honor of attending the United States of America 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War Commemoration Welcome Home and Pinning Ceremony at Goodfellow Air Force Base. This ceremony has taken place for over 10 years in San Angelo and is an incredible way to recognize and honor Vietnam War veterans with an official commemorative lapel pin.

    This year’s ceremony coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Fall of Saigon and the end of the Vietnam War. Honoring our nation’s heroes is of the utmost importance to me. I’d like to thank the Goodfellow AFB Heritage Committee, the Heritage Chapter – Freedom Through Vigilance Association, the EC-47 History Site, and all of the Command Staff at Goodfellow AFB for putting together such a meaningful event. I was extremely honored to participate in this today and share a few remarks.

    Counterterrorism Subcommittee Markup

    As Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security’s Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence, I led the subcommittee’s first legislative markup of the 119th Congress. The markup included ten critical pieces of legislation to counter terror threats and transnational repression in the United States, two of which were my bills, the Generative AI Terrorism Risk Assessment Act and the Countering Transnational Repression Act of 2025.

    Transnational repression, the act of foreign governments or their proxies targeting individuals in another country using various coercive tactics, has become an increasingly concerning issue in the United States. Midlander Bob Fu is a victim of transnational repression. He has testified in the Homeland Security Committee about his experiences being targeted by the Chinese Communist Party.

    The Countering Transnational Repression Act of 2025 would require the Department of Homeland Security to create a dedicated transnational repression office to ensure that the federal government takes steps to counter threats from foreign authoritarian regimes.

    Watch my remarks in support of my legislation here or by clicking the image below.

    Mornings with Maria on Fox Business

    I joined Mornings with Maria on Fox Business to discuss the Republican Study Committee’s efforts to codify President Trump’s executive orders into law, President Trump signing my legislation to repeal the natural gas tax into law, President Trump and Secretary Hegseth’s announcement of the contract to build the next generation F-47 that will be the most lethal aircraft the U.S. Air Force has ever seen, and much more.

    You can watch the full interview here or by clicking the image below.

    Keeping the Lights On in Texas

    As a member of the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee, I joined my colleagues in questioning witnesses on energy grid reliability. Pablo Vegas, President and Chief Executive Officer for the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, Inc. (ERCOT), was among the witnesses called to testify.

    I believe in the ‘best of the above’, not ‘all of the above’ approach to energy production. This is why, during the hearing, I questioned Mr. Vegas on the pressing need to invest in long-duration, dispatchable resources to support grid reliability in Texas. As the demand for electricity continues to rise, we must invest in secure and reliable resources to power the future.

    You can watch my full line of questioning here or at the link below.

    Meeting with Texas-11 in Washington

    This week, I met with several community leaders and partners in Washington, which is always a pleasure. Thank you all for taking the time to discuss how we can implement smart, commonsense policies to strengthen Texas-11!

    2025 Congressional Art Competition

    My office is accepting submissions for the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. This competition gives high school students from across Texas-11 the opportunity to have their artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building.

    This year’s theme is ‘Texas to Me’ and students will have until April 21st to submit their artwork. Information on the Congressional Art Competition, including how to apply, can be found on the Congressman’s website by clicking here.

    RULES

    · Artwork must be two-dimensional and original in concept, design, and execution. Art must follow the theme of ‘Texas to Me.’

    · The artwork’s dimensions can be no larger than 26 inches high, 26 inches wide, and 4 inches deep. Accepted mediums for the two-dimensional artwork are as follows:

    · Paintings: oil, acrylics, watercolor, etc.

    · Drawings: colored pencil, pencil, ink, marker, pastels, charcoal (It is recommended that charcoal and pastel drawings be fixed.)

    · Collages: must be two-dimensional

    · Prints: lithographs, silkscreen, block prints

    · Mixed Media: use of more than two mediums such as pencil, ink, watercolor, etc.

    · Computer-generated art

    · Photographs

    Students are highly encouraged to review the competition’s complete rules and regulations on our congressional website or contact Carol Cunningham in the Llano District Office at Carol.Cunningham@mail.house.gov with any questions.

    REMINDER: If you are in need of assistance with a federal agency, my office is here to help. For more information, please visit our website HERE.

    Thank you for reading. It is the honor of my lifetime to serve you in Congress. Please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) for daily updates.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sanjay Virmani Named Special Agent in Charge of the San Francisco Field Office

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation has named Sanjay Virmani as the special agent in charge of the San Francisco Field Office. He most recently served as the special agent in charge of the Washington Field Office over the Counterterrorism Division.

    Mr. Virmani joined the FBI as a special agent in 2003 and was assigned to the San Francisco Field Office where he worked cyber and counterterrorism matters. In 2007, he was promoted to supervisory special agent in the Counterterrorism Division at FBI Headquarters.

    In 2010, he was selected as the supervisory special agent to lead the San Francisco Field Office’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in the Oakland Resident Agency. Mr. Virmani was then selected to serve as director of the INTERPOL Digital Crime Center at the INTERPOL Global Complex for Innovation in Singapore in 2013.

    In 2016, Mr. Virmani returned to FBI Headquarters as a unit chief, working cyberterrorism matters.

    In 2018, he was promoted to assistant section chief of the Internet Operations Section of the Counterterrorism Division, where he worked to foster partnerships within the U.S. intelligence community and with international partners. He returned to the San Francisco Field Office as a supervisory special agent, then was promoted to assistant special agent in charge over the Cyber Branch in 2018 as well.

    In 2021, Mr. Virmani returned to the Counterterrorism Division as section chief of the Strategic Partner Engagement Section, where he oversaw the FBI’s liaison efforts with the law enforcement community, U.S. interagency, and private sector partners on counterterrorism-related matters.

    In 2022, he served as the acting special agent in charge of the Tampa Field Office. That same year, he was promoted to deputy assistant director of the Counterterrorism Division. In 2024, he was selected as the special agent in charge of the Washington Field Office over the Counterterrorism Division.

    Mr. Virmani earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from California State Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo and received a master’s degree in business administration from the Naval Post Graduate School in Monterey, California.   

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: WEEK TEN WINS: President Trump Fuels America’s Golden Age

    Source: The White House

    Ten weeks into his second term, President Donald J. Trump keeps delivering transformative wins for the American people — empowering our workers, securing our nation, and cementing our leadership as the envy of the world.

    Here is a non-comprehensive list of wins in week ten:

    • President Trump’s effort to secure the homeland continued in force.
      • The Trump Administration directed the successful apprehension of a key MS-13 gang leader — an illegal immigrant living in Virginia and operating as one of the top three MS-13 leaders in the U.S.
      • ICE arrested 370+ illegal immigrants as part of a major operation in Massachusetts — many of whom have serious criminal convictions and charges, including murder, child rape, fentanyl trafficking, and armed robbery.
    • President Trump imposed a 25% tariff on imports of foreign automobiles and certain auto parts to end unfair trade practices and protect national security.
      • United Auto Workers: “We applaud the Trump administration for stepping up to end the free trade disaster that has devastated working class communities for decades. Ending the race to the bottom in the auto industry starts with fixing our broken trade deals, and the Trump administration has made history with today’s actions.”
    • President Trump imposed a 25% tariff on all goods from countries that import Venezuelan oil to sever the financial lifelines of the corrupt Maduro regime.
    • President Trump’s unrelenting pursuit of American manufacturing dominance continued to deliver results.
      • Hyundai announced a $20 billion investment in the U.S., which will create 14,000 new jobs. The investment includes $5.8 billion for a new steel plant in Louisiana, which will create nearly 1,500 jobs.
      • Schneider Electric announced it will invest $700 million over the next four years in U.S. energy infrastructure.
      • Rolls-Royce is expected to shift production to the U.S. and expand its domestic workforce.
      • Vietnam announced it will cut duties on U.S. imports, including liquefied natural gas and automobiles.
    • President Trump continued to pursue peace through strength around the world.
      • U.S. airstrikes eliminated dozens of ISIS jihadis hiding within a cave complex in Somalia.
      • Following U.S.-led negotiations, Russia and Ukraine agreed to a Black Sea ceasefire.
    • President Trump’s economic agenda delivered more relief for Americans.
      • Large egg prices have dropped nearly 60% since last month amid the Trump Administration’s efforts to combat the avian bird flu and repopulate the chicken supply.
      • New data showed new home sales rose 5.1% over last year — with median home prices down 1.5% over last year and 3% over January.
    • The President signed several key executive orders to improve our nation.
      • President Trump signed an executive order aimed at making Washington, D.C., safe, beautiful, and the greatest capital city in the world.
      • President Trump signed an executive order on election integrity, including requiring proof of citizenship in voter registration, setting standards for voting equipment, identifying election fraud, and banning foreign interference in elections.
      • President Trump signed executive orders to protect America’s bank account against waste, fraud, and abuse and modernize payments.
      • President Trump signed an executive order exempting agencies with national security missions from federal collective bargaining requirements in order to bolster border, national, and energy security.
      • President Trump signed an executive order to remove anti-American propaganda from federal museums and national parks.
      • President Trump ordered the immediate declassification of all FBI files related to the sham Crossfire Hurricane investigation.
    • The Department of the Interior disbursed $350 million in energy revenues from the Gulf of America to oil-and-gas-producing states, including Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas.
    • The Department of the Interior announced nearly $40 million in total receipts from its first oil and gas lease sales of the year.
    • The Department of Commerce blacklisted more than 50 Chinese companies in a bid to reduce the Chinese Communist Party’s intellectual property theft.
    • The Department of Housing and Urban Development canceled taxpayer-backed mortgages for illegal immigrants.
    • The Department of Energy slashed unnecessary bureaucratic red tape that accounted for 60% of costs when building and purchasing new laboratories.
    • The Department of Health and Human Services axed $300 million in grants to California related to radical gender ideology and DEI.
    • The Department of Health and Human Services formally warned California for allowing graphic sex education, including about sex toys and “role-plays,” to be taught to children as young as ten years old.
    • The Department of Education revoked waivers that allowed certain colleges to divert federal funds intended for low-income students and students with disabilities to illegal immigrants.
    • The Department of Education launched an investigation into the California Department of Education for withholding information from parents about their child’s gender identity.
    • The Department of Education launched an investigation into Portland Public Schools and the Oregon School Activities Association for allowing a male student athlete to compete in a girls’ track and field competition.
    • The Department of Agriculture reinstated critical reports canceled by the Biden Administration, including the July Cattle Report and the County Estimates for Crops and Livestock — giving farmers the data needed to make important decisions for their operations.
    • The Department of Agriculture announced an investigation into California for possible noncompliance with President Trump’s executive order on radical transgender ideology.
    • The Department of the Treasury announced sanctions against additional Iranian intelligence officers involved in the probable death and cover-up of FBI Special Agent Bob Levinson.
    • The Department of Labor canceled nearly $600 million in “America Last” grants, including millions for “gender equity in the Mexican workplace” and “assisting foreign migrant workers” in Malaysia.
    • The Department of Justice seized hundreds of thousands of dollars of cryptocurrency intended to support Hamas and other terrorist organizations.
    • The Environmental Protection Agency terminated a $2 billion Biden-era grant to a non-governmental organization linked to partisan politics.
    • The Environmental Protection Agency announced it “successfully completed its mission assignment in Western North Carolina following Hurricane Helene.”
    • The Office of Management and Budget cut a wasteful $3 billion Biden-era slush fund.
    • The Small Business Administration announced actions to reverse Biden-era mismanagement of its Core 7(a) loan program.
    • The U.S. Coast Guard awarded a $1 billion contract for dozens of heavy icebreaker ships — which play a critical role in the defense of American interests.
    • The University of Michigan announced it will end its “diversity, equity, and inclusion”-related programming following President Trump’s executive order earlier this year.
    • President Trump’s nominees continue to be confirmed at a rapid pace, with the Senate confirming Secretary of the Navy John Phelan, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Director Michael Kratsios, National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya, and Office of Management and Budget Deputy Director Dan Bishop.
    • President Trump pardoned Devon Archer, a former business partner of Hunter Biden whose key testimony in the Biden corruption scandal made him a target for prosecution by the Biden Administration.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 03/27/2025 Senate Democrats Block Blackburn Resolution Condemning Violence Against Tesla

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) delivered remarks on the Senate floor before and after Senate Democrats blocked her resolution condemning the recent acts of violence, arson, and domestic terrorism committed against Tesla properties throughout the United States. Click here to read the full resolution.

    REMARKS AS PREPARED

    Elon Musk Is a Patriot for Tackling One of the Biggest Threats our Nation Faces: $36 Trillion in Debt

    Mr. President, there can be no doubt that Elon Musk is a patriot. 

    He has revolutionized entire industries with his companies—from PayPal and Tesla to SpaceX and Neuralink.

    Across his businesses, there are a lot of things he could be working on. But when President Trump asked him to join the administration, he answered the call and committed himself to serving the American people.

    In many ways, he is tackling one of the biggest threats our nation faces: our $36 trillion debt. 

    Elon understands that our fiscal path is unsustainable.

    Today, we are spending more money to service our debt than to fund our entire military.

    And as our debt grows, it will become more and more difficult to fund basic government functions.

    That’s why he is leading the Department of Government Efficiency: to rein in reckless spending and put our country on a better fiscal path.

    So far, DOGE has had a lot of success. In just two months, they have discovered $130 billion in potential savings by eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse across the federal government.

    They hope that number will reach $2 trillion by Independence Day next year—our nation’s 250th birthday.

    The Radical Left Is Targeting Elon Musk for Helping President Trump

    Every American should be applauding this effort. Our children and grandchildren’s future depends on it.

    But because Elon is helping President Trump, he has become a target for the radical Left—which has launched a domestic terrorism campaign against his company, Tesla. 

    In Las Vegas, suspects set Tesla vehicles on fire with Molotov cocktails.

    In Oregon, a man shot up a Tesla dealership.

    And across the country, Tesla owners have had their cars destroyed with arson and vandalism.

    Now, Democrat-aligned groups are organizing a “Global Day of Action” on Saturday to target Tesla.

    Democrats Are Eerily Silent While the Left Launches Domestic Terrorism Campaign Against Tesla

    The reason for this campaign is simple: In November, the American people rejected the Left’s radical agenda.

    They’ve lost the debate. But instead of making a better pitch to voters, they are trying to stop Republicans with violence and intimidation.

    The Democrats spent the last four years denouncing domestic terrorism and supporting electric vehicles, yet now they are eerily silent.

    And when they do comment, they celebrate Tesla’s setbacks.

    Tim Walz—Democrats’ failed vice presidential candidate—claimed he gets a daily “boost” from checking on Tesla’s stock price, which has declined amid the terrorism campaign.

    Democrat ally and late night host Jimmy Kimmel seemed to endorse the violence, sarcastically telling his audience, “Don’t ever vandalize Tesla vehicles.”

    Last week, Democrat congresswoman Jasmine Crockett said that all she wants for her birthday is to “see Elon taken down.”

    Democrats Must Condemn Political Violence Against Tesla

    This rhetoric is inexcusable. And as the world’s greatest legislative body, we should jointly condemn political violence.

    That’s why I am asking for unanimous consent to pass my resolution that condemns the horrific acts of violence, arson, and domestic terrorism committed against Tesla dealerships and facilities across the country.

    There is absolutely no reason why Democrats should oppose this resolution. They should join Republicans and let the United States Senate speak with one voice: political violence and domestic terrorism have no place in our country.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lawler Reintroduces Legislation Holding October 7th Terrorists Accountable

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 3/27/2025… This week, Middle East Subcommittee Chairman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Reps. Brad Sherman (CA-32), Congressman David Kustoff (TN-08), House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Emeritus Michael McCaul (TX-10), Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10), and Congresswoman Sarah McBride (DE-At large) reintroduced legislation to finally sanction the Popular Resistance Committees (PRC). The bill was also introduced for the first time in the Senate by Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) and Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), demonstrating the growing momentum to finally sanction the Popular Resistance Committees.

    The Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) are the third-largest terror group in Gaza and, since their founding in 2000 during the Second Intifada, have carried out terror attacks against Israelis, Americans, and Palestinians. The two largest terrorist groups in Gaza are Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), which have long been sanctioned. It is past time that the PRC, whose ranks include former operatives from Hamas and PIJ, join their ranks on the U.S.’s list of designated terrorist groups.

    The Popular Resistance Committees participated in Hamas’s horrific October 7th massacre, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 Israelis, Americans, and others, as well as widespread torture and sexual violence as well as the abduction of some 250 hostages. The PRC proudly boasted about their involvement on their social media channels, issuing a statement on October 7th claiming joint responsibility for the massacre. The PRC’s posts showed that the group killed and took hostage a number of innocent people on October 7th. 

    The Popular Resistance Committees have a long history of carrying out terror attacks across Israel and the Palestinian territories. In 2003, the PRC bombed a United States diplomatic convoy which injured a U.S. diplomat and killed 3 American security guards. In 2004, PRC terrorists murdered pregnant Israeli woman Tali Hatuel and her 4 daughters, 11-year-old Hila, 9-year-old Hadar, 7-year-old Roni, and baby Meirav who was only 2 years old. The PRC has even targeted Palestinians in terror attacks, including the 2005 assassination of Palestinian Security Services chief Moussa Arafat.

    Despite multiple State Department reports identifying terror attacks committed by the Popular Resistance Committees, the group has never faced U.S. sanctions. This legislation would finally hold the PRC accountable for its long history of heinous terror attacks by applying long-overdue sanctions on the group. This commonsense bill picked up significant momentum in the 118th Congress, including a unanimous passage through the House Foreign Affairs Committee, in a demonstration of widespread support for this long overdue measure.

    Under the Accountability for Terrorist Perpetrators of October 7th Act, the PRC would be designated as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) organization. This designation would create criminal and civil penalties for anyone willfully providing support to the PRC, including up to 20 years in prison, civil fines, and property forfeitures. In addition, the legislation would subject the Popular Resistance Committees and their members to financial asset-blocking sanctions in any financial institution connected to the U.S. financial system as well as visa-blocking sanctions. 

    “The Popular Resistance Committees have long been a dangerous and violent force in Gaza, committing heinous acts of terrorism and destabilizing the region. It is long overdue that we take decisive action to hold them accountable. The passage of this bill through the House Foreign Affairs Committee last Congress was a critical first step, and I am committed to ensuring that the PRC faces the sanctions they have long deserved in the 119th Congress,” said Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17).

    “Every day that we fail to sanction the terrorist Popular Resistance Committees – which have murdered Americans and Israelis for decades, and participated in the barbaric October 7th massacre, including by taking hostages – is another day that we fail to secure justice for their victims. It is long overdue that the Popular Resistance Committees are designated as a terrorist organization and sanctioned, alongside Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad,” said Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32). “I’m proud to reintroduce my legislation to finally hold these monsters accountable for the terror they have wreaked on innocents in the region.”

    “The Popular Resistance Committees (PRC) is the third-largest terrorist organization in Gaza and another puppet of Iran,” said Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE). “Despite decades of attacks against Americans and Israelis, including on October 7th, the PRC has yet to be properly sanctioned for its barbarism. This bill will help hold accountable every terrorist that participated in the October 7th attacks.”

    “For years, the Popular Resistance Committees have carried out terrorist attacks against Israelis, Americans, and Palestinians. They were willing and cruel participants with Hamas during the horrific October 7th massacre, killing innocent Israelis and taking and holding hostages after that terrible attack. Any organization engaging in this level of violence should be sanctioned under U.S. law and officially designated as a terrorist group. The United States stands with Israel, and this is an important step to holding those responsible for October 7th accountable,” said Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA).

    “The terrorists responsible for the barbaric October 7th attack on Israel must be held accountable for their abhorrent actions against innocent men, women, and children,” said Congressman David Kustoff (TN-08). “For years now, the Popular Resistance Committees, the third largest terror group in the Gaza strip, have terrorized Israelis and Americans in the region. Enough is enough. I am pleased to join Rep. Sherman to introduce this crucial legislation that will sanction the PRC.”

    “The horrific attacks of October 7 were a brutal assault on innocent civilians, and all perpetrators must be held accountable. The Accountability for Terrorist Perpetratorsof October 7 Act ensures the U.S. stands firmly against all groups involved – including Hamas. We will continue to support Israel and pursue justice for the victims of these barbaric acts,” said Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Emeritus Michael McCaul (TX-10).

    “For far too long, the Popular Resistance Committees have evaded the consequences of their terrorist attacks against Israelis, Americans, and Palestinians. Their involvement in the barbaric October 7th massacre makes it even more urgent that the United States impose long-overdue sanctions on this terrorist organization. With this legislation, we are taking a critical step toward ensuring that the PRC is held accountable and cut off from the global financial system, just like Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad,” said Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10).

    “The Popular Resistance Committees have committed heinous acts of terror against Israelis and Palestinians for decades but have evaded any accountability. Their role in the October 7th massacre, the murder of American citizens, and their ongoing role in the hostage crisis demands immediate action. I am proud to join Rep. Brad Sherman in leading this bipartisan, bicameral effort to finally sanction this brutal terror group and cut off its access to our financial networks. We must remain unwavering in our commitment to holding all perpetrators of terrorism accountable,” said Congresswoman Sarah McBride (DE-At large). 

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

    ###

    A copy of the full bill text can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Senegal sees French troops depart as west Africa reassesses colonial ties

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ezenwa E. Olumba, Doctoral Research Fellow, Conflict, Violence, & Terrorism Research Centre, Royal Holloway University of London

    France has handed over control to the Senegalese government of two military bases in Senegal’s capital, Dakar that it has used for decades. The move follows an announcement in late 2024 by Senegal’s president, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, that all foreign troops would be required to leave the country.

    “Senegal is an independent country, a sovereign nation, and sovereignty does not allow for the presence of foreign military bases,” Faye told Agence France-Presse in November.

    Unlike in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, where military juntas have expelled French and American troops in recent years, this move comes from a democratically elected leader. Faye secured a decisive victory in Senegal’s 2024 presidential election and came to power despite efforts by the former president, Macky Sall, to extend his rule beyond constitutional limits.

    Other democratic nations in west Africa seem to be reassessing their ties with western powers, too. The Ivory Coast, for example, has called for the end of its colonial-era military pact with France. And there are indications that US forces may soon be asked to leave Ghana.

    The fact that democratically elected governments are taking a similar stance to military leaders in the region should prompt deeper reflection on the factors driving these decisions.

    Younger generations of African leaders, shaped by decades of witnessing foreign-backed governments fail to boost development and security, are increasingly focused on decolonising their countries. This shift has also been driven by growing public awareness of the exploitation of Africa’s natural resources by some former colonial powers.

    Some observers attribute these developments to disinformation campaigns targeting France and other western governments. But the reality is that foreign interventions and paternalistic policies in Africa have done little to benefit African populations.

    Senegal’s push for sovereignty

    To further distance itself from France, the Senegalese government plans to replace the CFA franc with a national currency. The CFA franc, which is controlled by the French treasury, is a currency used in 14 countries in west and central Africa. It gives French companies easier access to natural resources in African countries where it is used.

    The move to replace it could test Senegal’s relationship with France. In 2019, when Italy’s former deputy prime minister, Luigi Di Maio, raised concerns about the impact of the CFA franc on Africa’s development, the French president, Emmanuel Macron, dismissed the issue, stating: “I will not respond”.

    Alongside economic reforms, Senegal is also reshaping its public spaces. It will soon begin renaming streets and landmarks that were previously associated with colonial figures. And the government wants to update school textbooks and create a department that will manage how Senegal’s national heritage is documented.

    There is a broader regional movement to replace colonial-era street names. In Niger’s capital, Niamey, Avenue de Gaulle, named after the former French general and statesman, has been renamed Avenue Djibo Bakary after the city’s first post-independence mayor.

    Similar efforts are underway in central Africa. In March 2025, a court ruling in Uganda mandated the removal of British colonial monuments and renaming streets that honour “crooks and historical figureheads”.

    Among the figures affected include Maj. Gen. Henry Edward Colville, an early commissioner of the Uganda Protectorate, and Frederick Lugard, a key colonial administrator in Africa. Lugard also played a central role in creating Nigeria for British colonial rule.

    Political shifts in the Sahel

    A political shift seems to be taking place in Africa, particularly in the Sahel. In the 1960s, during the early years of African independence movements, many leaders from the continent took up arms against the colonial establishment.

    This included Amílcar Cabral, leader of the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde in Guinea-Bissau, as well as Nelson Mandela, who co-founded Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing of the African National Congress party in South Africa.

    They were treated as threats to the colonial order, at least outside their own supporter base. Cabral was assassinated in 1973 by political rivals, with the alleged support of the Portuguese security establishment.

    Nelson Mandela, who was imprisoned for 27 years by the South African apartheid regime he opposed, was on the US government’s terrorist list until 2008 despite being released from custody in 1993 and becoming the country’s first black president in 1994.

    The rhetoric and actions of many military-led governments in the Sahel, along with some democratically elected leaders, echo those of Africa’s early independence movements. Like their predecessors, these leaders are often condemned by foreign governments, yet they appear to have growing support among people in the region.

    Public rallies held by Captain Ibrahim Traoré in Burkina Faso regularly draw large crowds. The same is true for the military leaders in Niger. Traoré was even welcomed by cheering crowds during the recent inaugurations of democratically elected presidents in Senegal and Ghana.

    This is an unusual reception for a leader who came to power through a military coup. Such moments reflect the sentiment of millions who see these leaders less as military rulers and more as symbols of resistance against foreign influence.

    Some analysts have warned of instability following the expulsion of foreign troops from the Sahel. But decades of foreign military interventions have done little to improve security in the region. Counterinsurgency operations have not only failed to contain violence – the influence of insurgent groups has grown.

    According to a February 2025 report by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, the Sahel has been the epicentre of violence in Africa for four consecutive years. More than 10,000 deaths were attributed to militant Islamist violence in the region throughout 2024, with civilians being the primary targets.

    Africa must take the lead in addressing its security and economic challenges, engaging with international partners on equal terms rather than as a passive participant. African leaders should prioritise security, education and development while opening dialogue with disaffected groups that feel excluded from political and economic opportunities.

    Ezenwa E. Olumba 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. Senegal sees French troops depart as west Africa reassesses colonial ties – https://theconversation.com/senegal-sees-french-troops-depart-as-west-africa-reassesses-colonial-ties-251978

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Latin Music Talent Agency and Its CEO Found Guilty of Violating U.S. Sanctions by Doing Business with Cartel-Linked Concert Promoter

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    LOS ANGELES – The CEO of a Latin music conglomerate and his talent agency were found guilty by a jury today of conspiring to violate the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act by conducting business with a Guadalajara-based concert promoter with ties to Mexican drug cartels.

    José Ángel Del Villar, 44, of Huntington Beach, the CEO of Del Records and its related talent agency Del Entertainment Inc., was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to transact in property of specially designated narcotics traffickers in violation of the Kingpin Act and 10 counts of violating the Kingpin Act.

    Co-defendant Del Entertainment also was found guilty of all 11 counts of which Del Villar was convicted.

    According to evidence presented at a nine-day trial, in April 2018, the defendants did business with Jesús Pérez Alvear, a.k.a. “Chucho,” of Guadalajara, Mexico, a music promoter who controlled Gallistica Diamante, a.k.a. Ticket Premier. Pérez promoted concerts for Del Entertainment in Mexico until March 2019.

    The U.S. Treasury Department listed Pérez and his company as “specially designated narcotics traffickers” under the Kingpin Act on April 6, 2018, after concluding he facilitated money laundering for the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG) and the Los Cuinis drug trafficking organization. The Kingpin Act prevents people in the United States from conducting business with sanctioned persons and entities.

    Even though Del Villar and Del Entertainment were aware that it was illegal to engage in transactions or dealings with Pérez, they willfully did business with him by continuing to have a Del Entertainment musical artist perform at concerts in which Pérez and Del Entertainment had a financial interest.

    For example, on April 19, 2018, FBI agents approached a well-known musician and explicitly told him about Pérez’s designation under the Kingpin Act and how that prohibited him from conducting business with Pérez and performing concerts that Pérez promoted.

    On April 28, 2018, the musician performed at a music concert which Pérez organized. Del Villar’s credit card was used to pay for a private jet that brought the musician from Van Nuys Airport to the performance in Aguascalientes, Mexico.

    On multiple other occasions in 2018 and 2019, Pérez and Del Villar continued to do business by arranging for the musician to perform at concerts in Mexico – including Mexicali and San José Iturbide, Guanajuato.

    “The defendants here chose to get into business with an individual they knew had ties to the CJNG and had been designated a narcotics trafficker under the Kingpin Act,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. “Cartels and transnational criminal organizations cause immeasurable harm to our country. We are using every tool to eliminate these organizations and will prosecute those that do business with cartels.”

    “Doing business with government-sanctioned individuals is illegal and can have very serious consequences,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “Today’s guilty verdict sends a message to music industry associates and others who engage in business with those sanctioned for laundering money for Mexican drug cartels will not be tolerated by the FBI, nor our partners at the IRS and the United States Attorney’s Office.”

    United States District Judge Maame Ewusi-Mensah Frimpong scheduled an August 15 sentencing hearing, at which time Del Villar will face a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each count. Del Entertainment will face a sentence of five years of probation and a fine of $10 million for each count.

    Co-defendant Luca Scalisi, 58, of West Hollywood, has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him in this case and is scheduled to be tried separately in July 2025.

    Co-defendant Pérez, who previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to transact in property of specially designated narcotics traffickers, was murdered in Mexico in December 2024. 

    The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation investigated this matter. The Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control provided significant assistance in this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Benedetto L. Balding and Alexander B. Schwab of the Corporate and Securities Fraud Strike Force, and Kathrynne N. Seiden of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section, prosecuted this case, with substantial assistance from the International Narcotics, Money Laundering, and Racketeering Section.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man who glorifed Lee Rigby murder recalled to prison after Met Counter Terrorism investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command have ensured that a registered terrorist offender who glorified the murder of Lee Rigby has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years’ in prison after he breached his notification requirements.

    Royal Barnes 34 (28.08.90) was convicted in March 2014 of inciting terrorism overseas and three counts of transmitting a terrorist publication following the murder of Lee Rigby, a British soldier, in Woolwich.

    Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “Monitoring those convicted of terrorism-related crimes is a key part of our work to ensure that they are not posing any further risk to the public.

    “Terrorism offenders are subject to strict notification requirements once they have completed their sentences, and we are proactive in making sure they are sticking to these. As this case shows we will not hesitate to take action should we identify any breaches and it should also send a message that there are serious consequences for those who do so.”

    Barnes was sentenced to five years and four months in jail in 2014 after he produced videos, posted on Youtube, showing footage of the scene and calling for British-based Muslims to fight the government.

    He was released from prison in September 2016, but recalled in June 2017 for breaching his licence when he was found in possession of an iPhone which he hadn’t notified officers about. He was then released again in May 2019 and was subject to a number of ‘Part 4’ notification requirements.

    On 26 October 2023 he was arrested for breaches of these notification requirements relating to use of a vehicle, mobile phone and email account. He was also found to have been involved in fraudulent activity related to possession of bank cards.

    He pleaded guilty to these offences on 25 October last year and was sentenced on 28 March, at the Old Bailey, to three-and-a-half years in prison for the two breaches and a further 12 months, to be served consecutively, for the fraud offence.

    He must serve at least two thirds of his sentence in custody before being referred to a parole board.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Leads CTI Markup For Terror Threats, Transnational Repression Legislation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    Today, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11), Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security’s Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence, led the subcommittee’s first markup of the 119th Congress to consider legislation to enhance the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) coordination with all levels of law enforcement to bolster our national security and combat evolving threats from our adversaries.

    Ten pieces of legislation were considered today, of which two were Chairman Pfluger’s – the Countering Transnational Repression Act and the Generative AI Terrorism Risk Assessment Act.

     

    WATCH THE MARKUP IN ITS ENTIRETY HERE

    WATCH CHAIRMAN PFLUGER HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MARKUP BELOW:

    Chairman Pfluger’s opening remarks HERE

    Chairman Pfluger’s remarks on his Countering Transnational Repression Act HERE

    Chairman Pfluger’s remarks on his Generative AI Terrorism Risk Assessment Act HERE

    Chairman Pfluger’s closing remarks HERE

    Background:

    Ahead of this markup, Chairman Pfluger held a CTI hearing titled, “The Digital Battlefield: How Terrorists Use Online Networks for Recruitment and Radicalization“ to learn about how America can simultaneously protect First Amendment rights while taking proactive measures to prevent future terrorist attacks.

    Earlier this month, Chairman Pfluger introduced the Countering Transnational Repression Act of 2025 which would create a dedicated transnational repression office in DHS to ensure the federal government takes steps to recognize, assess, and counter threats from foreign authoritarian regimes or agents of foreign governments against American citizens or lawful permanent residents. Read Chairman Pfluger’s op-ed in the Washington Times here.

    Chairman Pfluger also introduced the “Generative AI Terrorism Risk Assessment Act” earlier this month, which would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct annual assessments on terrorist threats to the U.S. posed by terrorist organizations like ISIS and Al Qaeda, utilizing generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) applications for terroristic activity. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Speaks at Global Student Summit Against Antisemitism

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22)

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) recently joined the Rise & Respond: Global Student Summit Against Antisemitism as a keynote speaker to highlight the work she is doing in Congress to combat antisemitism and empower Jewish Students.

    Rep. Tenney was joined at the summit by over 400 student leaders and higher education professionals from across the United States. Rep. Tenney highlighted her legislative work, including sending a letter to Biden’s Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Kristen Clarke, urging her to prosecute those who threatened Jewish students at Columbia University and cosponsoring the Antisemitism Awareness Act.

    “We cannot stay silent as hatred from pro-Hamas mobs are threatening Jewish students. In Congress, I am leading the charge to hold the perpetrators of this vile rhetoric accountable. It was an honor to join the hundreds of student leaders and educators at the Rise & Respond: Global Student Summit Against Antisemitism and share the work I am doing in Congress to support the Jewish community, end antisemitism, and hold wrongdoers accountable,” said Congresswoman Tenney. 

    Rep. Tenney has been a steadfast advocate for the Jewish Community. So far this Congress, Rep Tenney has championed numerous initiatives, including:

    • Introduced the RECOGNIZING Judea and Samaria Act
    • Introduced the Calling on the United Kingdom, France, and Germany (E3) to initiate the snapback of sanctions on Iran under United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231
    • Introduced Encouraging the EU to DESIGNATE Resolution
    • Founded the Friends of Judea and Samaria Caucus
    • Led a Letter to President Trump about Judea and Samaria
    • Coled the PLO and PA Terror Payments Accountability Act
    • Cosponsored the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons Act
    • Cosponsored the Antisemitism Awareness Act
    • Cosponsored the Iran Sanctions Relief Review Act
    • Cosponsored the United States-Israel Defense Partnership Act
    • Cosponsored the No Immigration Benefits for Hamas Terrorists Act
    • Cosponsored the IGO Anti-Boycott Act
    • Cosponsored the Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act
    • Hosted the Inaugural Friends of Judea and Samaria Caucus Event
    • Spoke at the Congressional Israel Allies Caucus Event
    • Joined the Abraham Accords Caucus, the House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, and the Congressional Israel Allies Caucus

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Netherlands

    Source:

    The Netherlands has introduced temporary checks along its land borders with Belgium and Germany. The Netherlands national terrorism threat level remains at ‘substantial’ – level 4 of 5. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities (see ‘Safety’).

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Nevada Resident Arrested and Charged in Connection with Violent Tesla Arson in Las Vegas

    Source: US State of California

    A Las Vegas resident made his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court in Las Vegas, Nevada, to face federal charges related to an arson at a Tesla collision business.

    Paul Hyon Kim, 36, was charged by criminal complaint with one count of unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm and one count of arson. Kim was arrested by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers on March 26. He remains in federal custody.

    “The Department of Justice has been clear: anyone who participates in the wave of domestic terrorism targeting Tesla properties will suffer severe legal consequences,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will continue to find, arrest, and prosecute these attackers until the lesson is learned.”

    “As promised, acts of violence and vandalism will not be tolerated, and today law enforcement personnel acted quickly to arrest an individual on charges including arson,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Under Attorney General Bondi’s leadership, we will continue to pursue these investigations with the full force of law and will bring to justice anyone responsible for these attacks.”

    “Today’s federal charges demonstrate our strong partnerships and collaboration with law enforcement partners and the joint pursuit to end domestic terrorism,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada. “Thank you to the detectives from the Southern Nevada Counterterrorism Center (SNCTC), FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) ARMOR (All-Hazard Regional Multi-Agency Operations and Response) unit, as well as Clark County Fire Department Arson Investigators, the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the ATF, and the Justice Department’s National Security Division for their hard work and tireless efforts. We will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law and remain steadfastly committed to working with our enforcement partners to combat acts of domestic violence.”

    According to allegations in the complaint, on March 18, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department patrol officers responded to an emergency call about a person setting vehicles on fire and hearing gunshots at a Tesla collision business. The Clark County Fire Department arrived to suppress the fires. During the investigation, it was determined that Molotov cocktails and a .30 caliber AR-style firearm were used to damage and destroy five Tesla vehicles, and graffiti was sprayed to write “Resist” on the front of the building.

    On March 26, law enforcement officials executed various state search warrants related to this case, including a search warrant at Kim’s residence. Inside the residence, they found various firearms, including an AR style rifle consistent with the firearm used in the March 18, incident and with a suppressor on it, a black gun belt with a pouch and a small drop of pink paint residue, a black hoodie, face masks, and a handwritten note with what appeared to be an escape plan.

    Attorney General Pamela Bondi for the Department of Justice; Director Kash Patel of the FBI; Acting U.S. Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada; Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans of the FBI Las Vegas Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Cicolani of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); and Sheriff Kevin McMahill for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department made the announcement.

    If convicted, Kim faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison for the unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm charge and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison up to a maximum of 20 years in prison for the arson charge.

    The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and the ATF are investigating the case and with significant assistance from the Clark County Fire Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Operskalski for the District of Nevada and Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

    A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nevada Resident Arrested and Charged in Connection with Violent Tesla Arson in Las Vegas

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A Las Vegas resident made his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court in Las Vegas, Nevada, to face federal charges related to an arson at a Tesla collision business.

    Paul Hyon Kim, 36, was charged by criminal complaint with one count of unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm and one count of arson. Kim was arrested by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers on March 26. He remains in federal custody.

    “The Department of Justice has been clear: anyone who participates in the wave of domestic terrorism targeting Tesla properties will suffer severe legal consequences,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. We will continue to find, arrest, and prosecute these attackers until the lesson is learned.”

    “As promised, acts of violence and vandalism will not be tolerated, and today law enforcement personnel acted quickly to arrest an individual on charges including arson,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Under Attorney General Bondi’s leadership, we will continue to pursue these investigations with the full force of law and will bring to justice anyone responsible for these attacks.”

    “Today’s federal charges demonstrate our strong partnerships and collaboration with law enforcement partners and the joint pursuit to end domestic terrorism,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada. “Thank you to the detectives from the Southern Nevada Counterterrorism Center (SNCTC), FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) ARMOR (All-Hazard Regional Multi-Agency Operations and Response) unit, as well as CCFD Arson Investigators and the Justice Department’s National Security Division for their hard work and tireless efforts. We will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law and remain steadfastly committed to working with our enforcement partners to end acts of domestic violence.”

    According to allegations in the complaint, on March 18, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department patrol officers responded to an emergency call about a person setting vehicles on fire and hearing gunshots at a Tesla collision business. The Clark County Fire Department arrived to suppress the fires. During the investigation, it was determined that Molotov cocktails and a .30 caliber AR-style firearm were used to damage and destroy five Tesla vehicles, and graffiti was sprayed to write “Resist” on the front of the building.

    On March 26, law enforcement officials executed various state search warrants related to this case, including a search warrant at Kim’s residence. Inside the residence, they found various firearms, including an AR style rifle consistent with the firearm used in the March 18, incident and with a suppressor on it, a black gun belt with a pouch and a small drop of pink paint residue, a black hoodie, face masks, and a handwritten note with what appeared to be an escape plan.

    Attorney General Pamela Bondi for the Department of Justice; Director Kash Patel of the FBI; Acting U.S. Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada; Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans of the FBI Las Vegas Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Cicolani of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); and Sheriff Kevin McMahill for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department made the announcement.

    If convicted, Kim faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison for the unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm charge and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison up to a maximum of 20 years in prison for the arson charge.

    The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and the ATF are investigating the case and with significant assistance from the Clark County Fire Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Operskalski for the District of Nevada and Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

    A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Pakistan: Systematic attacks and relentless crackdown on Baloch activists must end

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the unlawful detention and harassment of Baloch activists in Quetta and Karachi over the past week in Pakistan, Babu Ram Pant, Deputy Regional Director for South Asia at Amnesty International, said:

    “The Pakistani authorities’ relentless crackdown on Baloch activists over the last week and continued detention of several protesters and Baloch activists, including Mahrang Baloch, Sammi Deen Baloch, and Bebarg Zehri, speaks of a systematic attack on the rights of Baloch community. Amnesty International is concerned by reports from family members that Mahrang and Bebarg – who is a person with disabilities, are not being given access to medical assistance despite their health severely deteriorating during custody.”

    “The weaponization of the legal system, through multiple bogus First Information Reports (FIRs) and preventative detentions under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, despite activists being granted bail, is a gross violation of their right to due process and fair trial. It shows wanton disregard by the law enforcement agencies for the rights of Baloch people under Pakistan’s Constitution and the country’s obligations under international human rights law.”

    The Pakistani authorities’ relentless crackdown on Baloch activists over the last week and continued detention of several protesters and Baloch activists, including Mahrang Baloch, Sammi Deen Baloch, and Bebarg Zehri, speaks of a systematic attack on the rights of Baloch community.

    Babu Ram Pant, Deputy Regional Director for South Asia at Amnesty International

    “Pakistani authorities must immediately release all Baloch activists being detained simply for exercising their right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. Amnesty reiterates its call for a prompt, thorough and impartial investigation into the use of unlawful force during the 21 March peaceful protests and ensure those responsible are held to account and the violations are effectively remedied.”

    BACKGROUND

    Baloch activists, Bebarg Zehri and his brother Hammal Zehri, were taken by Counter Terrorism Department officials from their home in Quetta on 20 March 2025 following a press conference by the Baloch Yakjethi Committee (BYC) at the Quetta Press Club over their long-standing demand is for justice for families of victims of enforced disappearances. During a protest by BYC on 21 March calling for their release, three protesters were killed through use of unlawful force by law enforcement as per reports from local activists. Mobile network signals were completely shut down in the lead up to and following the protest.

    Central leader of the Baloch Yakjethi Committee, Mahrang Baloch, along with 17 other protesters, was detained the next day. Mahrang and Bebarg remain under preventative detention under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance (MPO), with separate terrorism charges also brought against Mahrang.

    On 24 March, at least six activists, including Sammi Deen Baloch a key leader in BYC, were detained for disregarding a blanket ban on assemblies in the city, following a protest in Karachi in Sindh province.

    MIL OSI NGO –