NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Khush Housing Finance Private Limited, Mumbai, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated May 19, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹16,000 (Rupees Sixteen Thousand only) on Khush Housing Finance Private Limited, Mumbai, Maharashtra (the company) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Know Your Customer (KYC)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 52A of the National Housing Bank Act, 1987.

    The statutory inspection of the company was conducted by the National Housing Bank with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2022 and March 31, 2023. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the company advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the company’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the company was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The company had failed to carry out risk categorisation of its customers.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the company with its customers. Further, imposition of monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the company.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/468

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lisa Nandy speech at Media & Telecoms 2025 and Beyond Conference

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Lisa Nandy speech at Media & Telecoms 2025 and Beyond Conference

    Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy’s keynote speech at the Deloitte and Enders Analysis’ Media & Telecoms 2025 & Beyond Conference in London.

    I said when I addressed the Royal Television Society at the end of last year that there is a choice ahead of us, whether we choose to be the last guardians of this chapter or the first pioneers of the next. And those of you in this room are those pioneers, public service broadcasters, providing an engine room of talent development and creativity, a strong independent sector producing and distributing British content seen at home and around the world on screens big and small, a rich and varied press holding the powerful to account, not always comfortably for us in government, but essential to the functioning of a healthy democracy, and an advertising ecosystem that underpins all of this and makes it possible. 

    You and your sectors are central to the cultural, democratic and economic life of this country and many other countries around the world. This government values what your sectors bring to the economy, to skills and good jobs, and as a symbol of that, we have chosen to back the creative industries as one of the eight highest growth industries in the UK in our forthcoming industrial strategy. Over the last decade, the creative industries have increased their output at more than one and a half times the rate of the rest of the economy. They, you, are a major UK employer. You drive growth at home and you project the UK overseas. Collectively, you underpin a hugely important industry for this country. And whilst we will have more to say on the sector plan shortly, that will put rocket boosters under the creative industries, I want to say now that this government recognises your value and we have your back.

    But the media is, and always has been, about much more than that. And there’s one issue above many others that I want to talk with you about today. Trust. Last summer, when many of our towns and cities went up in flames, nobody could ignore the fractured nature of society. We have found multiple ways to divide ourselves from one another over recent decades, and it feels at times that we’ve lost the ability to understand one another. When people are working harder than ever before, but can’t make ends meet, when their contribution is not seen or valued, when politicians display a violent indifference to the things that matter, a decent high street, transport, a viable football club, it is no wonder that people lose trust, trust in our leaders, trust in our democratic institutions and trust in each other.

    That’s when news and information becomes critical. Not the sort of news and information that helps to polarise and divide, but trust in news that builds a shared understanding of the world.

    And we’re all of us in this room custodians, custodians of our institutions, but more than that, custodians of a cohesive, self confident country. And who of us can look at this country and the world right now and say that we’re succeeding?

    We know that people rate traditional news sources high on trust, accuracy and impartiality. We also know that news sourced via social media is rated significantly lower, and I think we’re all aware of the darker side of social media, where facts are disputed and division is sown. Against that backdrop, your work is not just important, it is central to the future of this nation.

    I’ve always believed in the power of media, because it is in my blood. My mum was one of the only female editors at Granada TV in 1989, running a busy newsroom on the day that Hillsborough happened. I remember vividly as a 10 year old sitting in the newsroom with my sister until late into the night as the horrific scenes unfolded, watching her make the agonising call for the cameramen on the ground to keep filming rather than aid the rescue effort. That footage would later become critical in achieving justice for the 97, revealing evidence of a cover up and improving safety in stands at football grounds.

    I watched my stepdad make the call to commission ‘Who Bombed Birmingham?’ and persist with the program over several months despite intense opposition. That documentary didn’t just go on to ensure the release of the Birmingham Six. It exposed a miscarriage of justice that would send shockwaves through the country and lead to major reforms to the criminal justice system that persist to this day. It’s in these moments that great journalism shines a light into the darkest parts of our country, holds up a mirror to those in power, and reasserts the power of the people.

    I can think of no better recent example of this than last summer, as our towns and cities were set ablaze by violent thugs. It was local media on the ground who countered mis- and disinformation in real time. And they told the real story, the story of our communities, who came together to defend all of us in all of our diversity and led the community fightback.

    Our national and local media is, in short, too important to fail. But we appreciate as a government that you are businesses with a bottom line, and you have been operating in the toughest of environments for some time. You don’t need me to tell you that consumer habits are changing. Seventy one percent of UK adults consume online news in some capacity, twice as many as a decade ago, and that includes some eighty eight percent of 16 to 24 year olds. Just one in 10 pick up a print newspaper, compared to over half of over 75s. And for Gen Z, internet influencers are considered almost as trustworthy as traditional media. So I’m glad that the next session in this conference is focused on news and media in the AI age. 

    But these aren’t the only changes that we are collectively grappling with. When it comes to the media sector, there is enormous upheaval. Print advertising is down by a third, but online advertising has more than doubled. Broadcast viewing is down by a quarter, but on demand viewing is soaring, and the advent of AI, with its enormous potential to support creativity, comes with fresh challenges around copyright, authorship and fair compensation. The consequences of this can be stark and they can be uneven. Take, for example, the dramatic shift in TV commissioning patterns that have seen the UK become a world leader in high end, at the same time that smaller producers have seen the value of their commissions fall by a third and too many talented creatives left out of work.

    We’re living through a revolution, but just as with the invention of the printing press and every revolution since, we don’t run from it, we adapt again, and we learn how to become stronger for it, in a new age. And at a crucial point in our history, governments have always proactively partnered with industry to forge a new path forward, like the Annan Committee in 1974, a landmark review into the future of broadcasting that my dad was a member of. It led to the creation of Channel Four, a recognition that the country had changed, with working classes, women and minority communities crying out to be heard in this new society and a nation that needed to define itself once again. 

    We’re in a similar period of transition now, and transitions need to be managed. Our job as a government is to create the framework so you can keep providing rigorous journalism in an evolving news landscape, among which the creative output that is only produced by people coming together across every part of the United Kingdom, that resonates with them and their lives. That’s why we’ve already acted in the last year to fix the foundations, implementing the Online Safety Act to keep users safe while protecting press and media freedom, recognising the value and importance of recognised news publisher content. Implementing the new digital markets regimes to allow you to challenge market dominance that negatively impacts your business, and convening the National Committee for the Safety of Journalists, to bring industry and government together to protect journalists and allow you to speak truth to power.

    I’ve heard from you the need for fair competition and a government that supports you. That’s why we’ve already acted to protect the sustainability of the sector, implementing the Media Act, delivering a new, more sustainable settlement for our public service broadcasters, so they can continue to invest in high quality original UK content, as well as a level playing field for our radio stations. Hearing your concerns about less healthy food advertising restrictions and acting quickly to support clarity and common sense. Increasing funding for community radio stations this year to £1 million to help support hyper local stations that represent and unite their communities. Providing clarity on foreign state ownership of newspaper enterprises, a tough and crucially workable regime to protect our newspapers from foreign interference, while ensuring sustainable investment so that our papers can thrive, and making changes to the media ownership regime to protect news in all its forms from influences that could risk our plural and trusted media.

    But I do want to pause for a moment on AI, which has been the subject rightly of so much debate, not just here, but across the world. We are determined to find a way forward that works for the creative industry and creators, as well as the tech industries. Creators are the innovators, fundamental to our economic success in the future. And with my colleague Peter Kyle, we’re working together to find a better solution. The issue of AI and copyright needs to be properly considered and enforceable legislation drafted with the inclusion, involvement and experience of both creatives and technologists. And so as soon as the Data Bill is passed by Parliament, Peter and I will begin a series of roundtables with representatives from across the creative industries to develop legislation, with both houses of Parliament given time to consider it before we proceed. We approach you with no preferred option in mind. During the consultation we have heard you loud and clear that what works for one part of the creative industries doesn’t work for another. Now you know as well as I do that in this international landscape, there are no easy solutions, but this government is determined to work with you to find a solution with transparency and trust as its foundation. We have heard you loud and clear. 

    I will never stop working for creatives to deliver solutions, transparency and the empowerment that you need in the digital age. We are a Labour government, and the principle of people must be paid for their work is foundational, and you have our word that if it doesn’t work for the creative industries, it will not work for us.

    People are at the heart of this industry, and so we’ve also acted to support the people at the heart of this sector, supporting the launch of CIISA to tackle head on the issues of workplace culture that have plagued our creative industries for too long and denied us a chance to harness the full range of talent that exists in our country. I’ve been particularly pleased to see the BBC’s recent announcement that it will no longer commission companies who are not signed up to the CIISA standards. That is what leadership looks like. I’m publishing updated online safety guidance to support journalists to report in the public interest without fear. I’m proud of what we’ve been able to achieve together in just one year.

    But as the sector evolves, so must we, and we want a vibrant and sustainable media ecosystem with PSBs, streamers, indies, radio, TV, press, thriving across the UK, and not just individually, but collaborating together to invest in the skills, infrastructure and co-productions that we need, and when you do well, we won’t penalise you through new taxes and levies, but ensure that we have a regulatory framework that incentivises inward investment that creates opportunities for businesses, both big and small, and the UK talent to be showcased across the world.

    Take Bad Wolf as an example. First, a successful indie partnering with the BBC, then getting long term investment from Sky, HBO and most recently Sony, and now with the help of the Welsh Government, one of the anchor tenants of the Cardiff creative cluster. Or the growing cluster of audio producers in Manchester, such as Made in Manchester and Audio Always supported by the shift of BBC commissioning to the region.

    I told you this government would have your back, and we will. Over the coming months, we will build on Ofcom’s Public Service Media Review during the summer by taking action to ensure our public service broadcasters can continue to do what they do best long into the future. We will publish a Local Media Strategy to ensure that people in every town, city and village can access trust in news that reflects their lives as reserves better, helping them to hold local public services to account. As a government, we are committed to the biggest devolution of power out of Westminster and Whitehall in a generation, which will make local news and local media the most important that it has ever been. 

    We will launch the BBC Charter Review later this year to support a BBC that is empowered to continue to deliver a vital public service funded in a sustainable way. A BBC that can maintain the trust and support of the public in difficult times, support the wider ecosystem, and that is set up to drive growth in every part of the United Kingdom. 

    Later this month, we’ll publish a Creative Industries Sector Plan to turbocharge the growth of creative industries right across the UK. To support film and TV clusters from Birmingham to Belfast. To tap into the huge potential for growth that exists across our country.

    My commitment to you is an open and collaborative partnership with the government so that we can walk through this transition together. We will play our part, but we need you to play yours. We need more collaboration within your sector and especially between our public service broadcasters, to tackle these great social and economic challenges, working together in a number of areas, particularly tackling mis- and disinformation and promoting high quality news by investing in your journalism arms, partnering more rather than competing with or undercutting local news publishers, improving media literacy by helping consumers find and recognise accurate and impartial news reporting, supporting initiatives like BBC Verify and the Local Democracy Reporting Service. 

    We need you to work together to promote high quality children’s content. We all want our young people to grow up to see the high quality content that will educate and inform and equip them for the world. But also to inspire young people who see themselves and their opportunities in your content, bringing untold benefit to the industry in inspiring future generations of content makers. We make great children’s content in the United Kingdom, but we don’t collectively promote it enough.

    And also to understand how you can lead on this great transformation, thinking creatively about alternative ways to monetise your content and assets, and crucially, working together to move to where people are building on and developing more shared platforms and operations, like freely at radio player to help manage costs that make it easier for audiences to access your content.

    We need you to take seriously the need to shift resources, opportunities and commissioning power to every nation and region. There is a principle that will run through our industrial strategy like a thread: economic growth, good jobs, skills and opportunities. Not just in one part of the country, but in every single nation and region, across our towns, villages and cities. So we need you to step up and do more, not just paying lip service to the need for regional and national content, but really embedding yourselves in those communities to make sure that those voices are heard, those stories are told. Because talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not.

    In a world where trust is at a premium, it’s easy to draw divisions: broadcasters versus streamers, online versus print, local versus national, big versus small. But we have to reject that way of thinking. Because despite all the talk of challenges, and there are many, the fundamentals of our media sectors are strong. They have great talent and infrastructure, and I hope that we can work together to create a great policy framework too, so that you can continue to be the custodians of our national life and usher this country into the coming decade.

    It’s my firm belief that this country has been through difficult times, buffeted by global forces and decision-making at home, and we need to take this moment to recover our sense of self confidence. When it comes to the creative industries, whether it’s film, TV, fashion, music, arts, culture, we are really good at this stuff. We light up the world with the content that we’re able to make and produce and we change lives here, at home and overseas. 

    Recently, I was in India and then Japan, and I couldn’t fail to be impressed by the esteem in which British media and creatives are held. Millions of people around the world watch big budget dramas like ‘Doctor Who’ and ‘Bridgerton’, but they also watch a slew of other fantastic shows and formats from ‘Planet Earth’ to ‘Come Dine With Me’ and everything in between. They read our news, they watch our adverts, they listen to our podcasts. 

    What that does is not just project the UK to the rest of the world, but it connects people in an increasingly fragmented, divided and polarised world. So many of the people I spoke to wanted to come and make things in the UK with the UK, we are a cultural powerhouse. No one will be a more passionate advocate for our sectors than me or our ministerial colleagues at DCMS. 

    So know that you have our full support as we enter this new era. Know that I am confident that if we work together, we can face head-on these challenges and make the most of change as a country. We’ve been drifting too long, but now is the time to chart a new course, a media that is fiercely independent, that creates and produces some of the best content in the world. That draws on the talent that exists in every corner of our country to shape, define and give voice to our national story, and provide those moments that bring us together in shared experience at a time when so much of our consumption is fractured and polarising. As we look to this new era and a new country, let nobody say that it falls to anybody else. It falls to us.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/VIETNAM – Marian Jubilee Pilgrimage: places Mary at the center of the feast of Pentecost

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Diocese Da Nang

    Da Nang (Agenzia Fides) – More than ten thousand faithful, from all the parishes and communities of the vast diocese of Da Nang – which covers more than 10,000 square kilometers in central Vietnam – participated in the Jubilee pilgrimage to the Marian Shrine of Our Lady of Tra Kieu, on the occasion of the Holy Year 2025. The Marian site, deeply rooted in popular devotion, commemorates an apparition of the Virgin Mary that occurred 140 years ago, when, according to local tradition, the Mother of God appeared to console, encourage, and help her children in times of difficulty. The pilgrimage – celebrated on the Solemnity of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary – has been defined as “an event of love, faith, commitment, and service, an opportunity to profess one’s faith in the face of the challenges of the present time,” explained to Archbishop Joseph Dang Duc, Coadjutor of the Archdiocese of Hue and, at the same time, Apostolic Administrator of Da Nang. The prelate presided over the solemn Eucharist, concelebrated by hundreds of priests, and attended by numerous men and women religious, and lay faithful.The pilgrimage had a double meaning: on the one hand, it concluded the traditional “month of flowers” – the month of May, dedicated in Vietnam to Marian devotion—and, on the other, it served as spiritual preparation for the Solemnity of Pentecost. The Vietnamese Catholic community, which represents approximately 7% of the country’s population (about seven million faithful), expresses a profound devotion to the Virgin Mary. Throughout the month, the faithful participated in celebrations, prayer vigils, open-air Masses, and community rosaries at Marian shrines, where fresh flowers were offered as a sign of love and gratitude to the Mother of God. The pilgrimage was also a celebration of Mary as the “Woman of Pentecost,” which falls on June 8. The faithful go to the places where the Virgin Mary appeared to save Catholics during the bloody persecutions in the history of the Vietnamese Church, such as Our Lady of La Vang in the Diocese of Hue, Our Lady of Nui Cui in the Diocese of Xuan Loc, or Our Lady of Tra Kieu in the Diocese of Da Nang, to ask for her protection. Mary, in fact, filled with the Holy Spirit, demonstrates in herself the work that the Spirit accomplishes in every believer. “Mary,” was the reflection proposed to the faithful by the Vicar General, Father Bonaventura Mai Thai, “is in the Cenacle as the first to receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Mary is a great connoisseur of the Spirit’s action. She lives in a profound relationship with God and the Holy Spirit, thus becoming a model for the apostles and for all of us. Mary is a model of openness and acceptance of the Spirit of God. Contemplating Mary at Pentecost, we have the opportunity to allow ourselves to be shaped by the Holy Spirit to transmit God’s love to the world.”The figure of Mary, who sets out to reach Elizabeth’s house, Archbishop Joseph Dang Duc noted, is “the image and model of a synodal Church, a Church that knows how to go out of herself to encounter, listen to, and serve her neighbor.” “Mission today means not remaining locked up at home or in church, but is an invitation for all to reach out to the poor, the suffering, and the marginalized who need support, comfort, and encouragement, starting with those at our side, in our families or in our communities.” Mary,” he added, “was filled with the Holy Spirit. This is an important reminder for all members of the People of God in our diocese. All activities, community gatherings, liturgies, and pilgrimages, without the grace of the Holy Spirit, will be purely social gatherings. With the presence of the Holy Spirit, they will be spiritual moments lived in the presence of God, and will bring renewal, true joy, and peace to hearts. Today, each of us, regardless of our status and mission, whether priest, religious, or lay person, is invited to live in a spirit of gratitude, humility, and dedication, like the Virgin Mary, to know how to trust, praise, and give thanks to God.”Thus, he concluded, “the pilgrimage to the Marian shrine of Tra Kieu is not only an individual act, but a communal act to renew our vocation and mission, since we are all the people of God and we are all walking together in faith, in love, toward evangelization.”The Diocese of Da Nang has been the cradle of Catholicism in southern Vietnam. The roots of Christian preaching date back to three Jesuit missionaries who landed in Hoi An in 1615 and began their work of evangelization. One of the fruits of their preaching was the first Vietnamese blessed and martyr, Blessed Andrew of Phu Yen, a catechist beatified in 2000 by Pope Saint John Paul II. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Da Nang was one of the main centers of the diocese of Cochinchina (in southern Vietnam), a place from where missionaries departed.The Marian shrine of Tra Kieu, located in Quang Nam province, is a well-known pilgrimage destination. In September 1885, the Blessed Virgin Mary is said to have appeared at the top of the church in the Catholic village of Tra Kieu to help parishioners defeat the royal soldiers who were trying to exterminate the village’s Christian inhabitants. John XXIII created the Diocese of Da Nang on January 18, 1963. The territory includes the city of Da Nang and the province of Quang Nam. Currently, the diocese has 73,000 Catholics out of a population of 2.7 million, and has 51 parishes. (PA/AD) (Agenzia Fides, 3/6/2025)

    Diocese Da Nang

    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/UGANDA – Munyonyo Explosion: Investigation into whether one of the deceased is the daughter of one of those responsible for the 2021 attacks

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Kampala (Agenzia Fides) – Ugandan authorities have identified one of the two people killed this morning, June 3, in the failed attack near the Basilica of the Uganda Martyrs in Munyonyo.Security forces have published a photograph of a young woman, without revealing her name, stating that she is one of the two suspected terrorists intercepted aboard a motorcycle by an anti-terrorist unit, who died in the explosion of the device they were transporting. According to Ugandan police, the young woman is believed to be the daughter of the suicide bomber who blew himself up at the Kampala Central Police Station (CPS) during the series of coordinated terrorist attacks in November 2021 (see Fides, 17/11/2021), also carried out by suicide bombers arriving on motorcycles.The attacks were later claimed by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a jihadist group affiliated with the Islamic State (ISIS). Intelligence officials claim that the young woman was wearing an explosive vest and was trying to access the basilica before being intercepted by UPDF anti-terrorism officers. “After being hit, the explosive vests detonated,” a security source reports. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 3/6/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: More Foreign Delicacies Served to Chinese Wuhan Festive Tables

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, June 3 (Xinhua) — More foreign-made delicacies appeared on the tables of residents in the major Chinese city of Wuhan during the traditional Duanwu (Dragon Boat) Festival holiday, which ran from May 31 to June 2 this year, the Keji Ribao (science and technology daily) reported.

    Eight trains recently arrived in the city, which is the capital of Hubei Province (Central China), as part of the international China-Europe (Central Asia) railway freight transport.

    The trains reportedly carried various types of food products to Wuhan, including Kazakh flour, Russian sunflower oil, chocolate, honey, bread products, Danish cookies, French wines and Spanish olive oil.

    Thanks to the development of the China-Europe/Central Asia international rail freight sector, more locally produced goods are being supplied to the international market, and more sought-after foreign goods are being supplied to Hubei Province, the newspaper writes.

    Train X8183, loaded with photovoltaic products, equipment, auto parts and clothing, departed from Wuhan’s Wujiashan Station on Sunday for Germany, making it the 183rd China-Europe/China-Central Asia train departing from the station this year, up 9 percent year-on-year. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Zscaler Launches New Solutions to Strengthen and Extend Zero Trust Everywhere

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Zenith Live Las Vegas — Zscaler, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZS), the leader in cloud security, today announced a new suite of solutions that enable customers to quickly adopt Zero Trust Everywhere. These innovations extend the reach of true Zero Trust and enable businesses to modernize and scale securely by providing end-to-end segmentation between and inside branches and enhance security across multi-cloud environments.

    Organizations are increasingly distributed, rapidly adopting IoT, OT, and multi-cloud architectures and grappling with increasing digital complexity. Zscaler has unveiled innovative updates to the Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange™ platform, empowering businesses to extend Zero Trust Everywhere—across users, applications, devices, clouds, and branch locations. These enhancements make an organization’s branches and clouds invisible to bad actors, and eliminate the lateral movement of threats like ransomware within the organization’s network.

    With its expanded capabilities to strengthen Zero Trust Everywhere, Zscaler is advancing its cybersecurity postures, simplifying security network infrastructure, and making it easier for businesses to scale securely in today’s rapidly changing threat landscape.

    The following Zero Trust solutions—highlighted at Zenith Live 2025—are now generally available or accessible for select use cases by Zscaler customers.

    • Unified Appliance for Zero Trust Branch: Zscaler’s Zero Trust Branch redefines enterprise security and networking with a unified appliance that secures communications between branches, campuses, and factories, and segments OT and IoT devices within them including legacy OT, with no downtime. The solution also provides newly introduced disposable jumpboxes that enables contractors secure, time-bound access to critical systems. By eliminating the need for firewalls, legacy NAC, cumbersome VLAN configurations and VDI for remote access, organizations can stop lateral threat movement with unparalleled efficacy. This approach not only elevates security, but also dramatically reduces complexity and costs, empowering businesses to modernize and scale faster without compromise. Unified Appliance for Zero Trust Branch is generally available.
    • Zero Trust Gateway for Cloud Workloads: This cloud-native service on AWS enables organizations to secure communications from workload to the internet, and East-West traffic between workloads and VPCs/VNETs, in under 10 minutes without deploying agents or VMs with a Zscaler managed offering. This strengthens security in hybrid and multi-cloud environments, allowing organizations to reduce the attack surface associated with firewalls, and eliminate complexity and secure workload communications. Zero Trust Gateway is generally available.
    • Zscaler Microsegmentation for Cloud Workloads: Zscaler further extends AI-driven segmentation to cloud workloads with newly introduced host-based Microsegmentation service that provides granular host and process level segmentation policies using its AI- powered Segmentation engine for Workloads in public clouds such as AWS and Azure as well as on-premise Data Center based workloads that run on bare metal. Zscaler Workload agent provides process and workload level metrics, traffic flows as well device context, that protects crown jewels against lateral threats and compromise. Zscaler Microsegmentation is generally available.
    • Zero Trust Exchange for B2B: The introduction of B2B Exchange revolutionizes secure collaboration by providing a cutting-edge app-sharing platform for partner organizations, eliminating the need for outdated technologies like MPLS circuits or VPNs that come with complexity and the risk of oversharing. This solution accelerates seamless, secure connections between enterprises, empowering organizations to drive faster, more efficient mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships while safeguarding sensitive data. Zero Trust Exchange for B2B is available for select use cases, with extended capabilities coming soon.

    “Zscaler’s latest innovations for the Zero Trust Exchange truly extends Zero Trust Everywhere beyond users and redefines the enterprise security and networking by seamlessly unifying operations, strengthening threat defenses, and enabling secure connectivity across users, devices, applications, branches, and clouds with better visibility and experience—no matter how complex or distributed the environment,” said Dhawal Sharma, EVP Product Strategy, Zscaler. “With this expanded Zero Trust Everywhere approach, organizations can accelerate security modernization, mitigate risks, and protect data everywhere business happens.”

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements that are based on our management’s beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to our management. These forward-looking statements include the expectations, beliefs, plans, and intentions relating to new innovations Zscaler is developing. Such statements include statements regarding future product capabilities and offerings and expected benefits to Zscaler and its customers. These forward-looking statements are subject to the safe harbor provisions created by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. A significant number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from statements made in this press release, including (i) delays and unexpected difficulties and expenses in executing the product capabilities and offerings and (ii) uncertainty as to whether future sales will justify the investments in the product capabilities and offerings. Additional risks and uncertainties are set forth in our most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on May 29, 2025, which is available on our website at ir.zscaler.com and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Any forward-looking statements in this release are based on the limited information currently available to Zscaler as of the date hereof, which is subject to change, and Zscaler will not necessarily update the information, even if new information becomes available in the future.

    About Zscaler
    Zscaler (NASDAQ: ZS) accelerates digital transformation so customers can be more agile, efficient, resilient, and secure. The Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange™ platform protects thousands of customers from cyberattacks and data loss by securely connecting users, devices, and applications in any location. Distributed across more than 150 data centers globally, the SASE-based Zero Trust Exchange™ is the world’s largest in-line cloud security platform.

    Media Contact 
    Nick Gonzalez
    Sr. Manager, Media Relations
    press@zscaler.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ehave Snaps Up AI Headhunter for $10M, Signaling Commitment to AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ehave, Inc., (OTC Pink: EHVVF) (the “Company”) today announced the acquisition of AIHeadHunter, an artificial intelligence-powered recruitment platform, through an asset purchase agreement. The transaction marks a significant step in Ehave’s strategic shift toward becoming a developer and operator of applied AI solutions.

    Under the terms of the agreement, Ehave acquired the assets of AIHeadHunter from Klizo Ventures Inc. The acquired assets include proprietary software, intellectual property, branding, domain names, and other related technologies and materials. The purchase price consists of $2.7 million in newly created Series A Convertible Preferred Stock and 100 million shares of common stock. The Preferred Stock is convertible into common shares at a rate determined by a volume-weighted average price formula and is subject to shareholder approval of an amendment to Ehave’s articles of incorporation. As a result of the transaction, Klizo Ventures Inc. will own more than 5% of Ehave’s outstanding shares and be considered an affiliate under applicable securities regulations.

    The agreement also includes performance-based earnouts of up to $7 million in additional Preferred Stock, tied to specific revenue and customer milestones.

    Ben Kaplan, CEO of Ehave, said, “This acquisition positions us to capitalize on the tremendous opportunity in workforce automation and AI-driven recruitment. Our long-term vision is to incubate and scale platforms like AIHeadHunter that solve real-world inefficiencies.”

    Since its last public update on Dec. 31, 2024, Ehave has been operating intentionally under the radar while executing a strategic realignment. Behind the scenes, the company has been focused on structuring several game-changing transactions to accelerate its evolution into a data-driven technology platform. The acquisition of AIHeadHunter marks the first in a series of planned initiatives aimed at delivering intelligent, AI-powered solutions. As Ehave transitions into a company committed to transforming the way people live and work through artificial intelligence, it remains focused on developing practical, user-centric tools that turn raw data into meaningful insights.

    “This is just the beginning,” Ben Kaplan continued. “We are rebuilding Ehave from the inside out and our process is driven by intelligent systems designed to solve real, large-scale problems.”

    A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f88b0e8d-6997-4ac9-bfdc-da2cf6a61c2a

    AIHeadHunter Targets Recruitment Inefficiencies

    The global staffing and recruiting market, valued between $619 billion and $757 billion in 2024, is projected to exceed $2 trillion by 2033, growing at a compound annual rate of approximately 13%. Yet despite its size, the industry remains burdened by inefficiencies: the average time to fill a position is 44 days, often surpassing 60 days for high-skill roles, and the average cost per hire is $4,700, excluding onboarding and ramp-up costs. According to Klizo Solutions analysis, recruiters still spend up to 70% of their week on manual sourcing and resume screening, while 60% of job seekers abandon applications when the process is too long or complex. With Gartner forecasting that over 40% of enterprise recruiting tasks will be fully automated by 2026, platforms like AIHeadHunter are well positioned to shorten fill times, cut sourcing costs, and capture meaningful share in a rapidly growing, multibillion-dollar market.

    AIHeadHunter is designed to streamline executive recruitment and talent sourcing through automation and advanced data analysis. The platform will be powered by technology licensed from Interview Screener, a backend AI interview and resume analysis platform built by Klizo Solutions founder Joey Ricard.

    Ehave has established a wholly owned subsidiary to operate AIHeadHunter, with Ricard appointed as president. Ricard brings more than a decade of experience in building scalable AI infrastructure for Fortune 500 companies and public agencies.

    Joey Ricard, founder of Klizo Solutions and President of Ehave’s new AI subsidiary, said, “The recruiting industry is overdue for intelligent automation. With AIHeadHunter, we’re not just digitizing old processes—we’re fundamentally rethinking how talent is discovered, qualified, and delivered. This platform is built to solve real bottlenecks for recruiters and hiring teams, and we’re excited to bring it to market with Ehave.”

    “Joey is more than just a technologist—he’s a proven product visionary and operator,” Kaplan said. “He will lead roadmap development, integration and go-to-market strategy across our AI initiatives.”

    Regulatory Progress and Market Expansion

    Ehave is currently compliant with the OTC Markets’ new OTCID (OTC Issuer Data) requirements, ensuring enhanced transparency and reporting standards for investors. The company also plans to apply for uplisting to the OTCQB Venture Market, a designation that offers increased visibility and credibility with institutional and retail investors.

    Funding and Go-to-Market Plans

    Ehave intends to fund the new subsidiary using proceeds from a planned Regulation A offering, with an initial $1 million budget over 12 months. The company expects AIHeadHunter to launch its enterprise pilots and SaaS offering in the third quarter of 2025.

    About Ehave Inc.

    Ehave Inc. (OTC: EHVVF) is a data-focused technology company committed to transforming the way people live and work through artificial intelligence. With a mission to make data behave, Ehave develops practical, user-centric solutions that convert raw information into actionable insights. The company is focused on bridging the gap between cutting-edge AI advancements and their real-world applications, building tools that deliver tangible value for individuals and businesses alike. For more information, visit www.ehave.com. Follow Ehave, Inc. on X at https://x.com/Ehaveinc.

    Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may be preceded by the words “intends,” “may,” “will,” “plans,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “predicts,” “estimates,” “aims,” “believes,” “hopes,” “potential” or similar words. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control, and cannot be predicted or quantified and consequently, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements: (i) the initiation, timing, progress and results of the Company’s research, manufacturing and other development efforts; (ii) the Company’s ability to advance its products to successfully complete development and commercialization; (iii) the manufacturing, development, commercialization, and market acceptance of the Company’s products; (iv) the lack of sufficient funding to finance the product development and business operations; (v) competitive companies and technologies within the Company’s industry and introduction of competing products; (vi) the Company’s ability to establish and maintain corporate collaborations; (vii) loss of key management personnel; (viii) the scope of protection the Company is able to establish and maintain for intellectual property rights covering its products and its ability to operate its business without infringing the intellectual property rights of others; (ix) potential failure to comply with applicable health information privacy and security laws and other state and federal privacy and security laws; and (x) the difficulty of predicting actions of the USA FDA and its regulations. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release. The Company assumes no obligation to update any written or oral forward-looking statement unless required by law. More detailed information about the Company and the risk factors that may affect the realization of forward-looking statements is contained under the heading “Risk Factors” in Ehave, Inc.’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on September 24, 2015, as amended, which is available on the SEC’s website, http://www.sec.gov.

    For Media and Investor Relations, please contact:

    David L. Kugelman
    (866) 692-6847 Toll Free – U.S. & Canada
    (404) 281-8556 Mobile and WhatsApp
    Email: Ir@Ehave.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Financial Health Network Launches First-Ever Financial Industry Standards at its Flagship EMERGE Conference

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Financial Health Network today unveiled at this year’s EMERGE conference the first-ever product design standards for the financial industry, an essential step toward integrating financial health into financial solutions. During her keynote, Financial Health Network CEO Jennifer Tescher announced the FinHealth Standards for Spending Management Products, an operational playbook for checking accounts and credit cards, designed to help financial services providers advance customer financial health amid rising economic pressure, a shifting consumer protection landscape, and eroding public trust. Future installments will introduce standards for a broader range of financial products.

    Inspired by quality benchmarks in other sectors such as healthcare and digital privacy, the new standards provide banks, credit unions, and fintechs with clear, actionable guidance across three critical areas: account features, account policies, and customer onboarding and access. They provide a roadmap for excellence that helps institutions assess their impact, strengthen performance, and demonstrate leadership—delivering value to both businesses and the consumers they serve.

    “With more than half of Americans spending as much or more than their income, and nearly a third falling behind on at least one bill payment, the stakes could not be higher,” said Tescher, citing data from the 2024 Financial Health Pulse® Trends Report. “In today’s relaxed regulatory environment, these standards give providers the clarity and confidence to act, turning good intentions into measurable outcomes that build consumer trust and strengthen institutional credibility. By deepening customer relationships and enhancing brand reputation, they drive growth, retention, and long-term profitability.”

    Designed to be flexible and scalable across institutions of all sizes and technical capacities, the standards support a range of applications, including advanced balance forecasting tools and fee waivers tied to customer behaviors rather than minimum balances. The standards also include evaluation scorecards to help institutions assess current offerings and prioritize improvements.

    “Consumer expectations are shifting, and leading institutions recognize that meeting financial health needs is no longer optional,” said Financial Health Network’s Vice President, Financial Services Solutions, Marisa Walster. “This initiative reflects where the industry is headed—toward greater accountability and deeper impact. These standards are intentionally designed to be adaptable, offering pathways for both steady progress and transformative change. This isn’t about compliance, it’s about building a system where financial health is the norm, rather than the exception.”

    Developed through extensive research, behavioral science insights, and collaboration with financial institutions and policy advisors, the standards align with the Financial Health Network’s broader strategy to embed financial health across the financial ecosystem. They complement the Financial Health Pulse data, which continues to track financial health across the U.S., and highlight the urgent need for systemic innovation.

    Today’s announcement marks the first in a series of FinHealth Standards that will be released, expanding across all pillars of financial health: saving, borrowing, and planning products. Future installments will cover a wide range of financial products, such as savings accounts, loans, and other money management tools. Later this year, the Financial Health Network will also publish an initial assessment evaluating how the industry aligns with the standards to help inspire action, foster innovation, and accelerate adoption. The Financial Health Network invites financial services providers to engage with the standards, assess their current practices, and help shape a future where financial health is a core measure of institutional performance.

    About the Financial Health Network
    The Financial Health Network is the leading authority on financial health. We are a trusted resource for business leaders, policymakers, and innovators united in a mission to improve the financial health of their customers, employees, and communities. Through research, advisory services, measurement tools, and opportunities for cross-sector collaboration, we advance awareness, understanding, and proven best practices in support of improved financial health for all. For more on the Financial Health Network, go to www.finhealthnetwork.org and follow us on Twitter at @FinHealthNet.

    Contact:
    Catherine New
    Financial Health Network 
    cnew@finhealthnetwork.org 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Skyward Specialty Launches Aviation Unit Following Acquisition of Acceleration Aviation Underwriters’ Assets

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Skyward Specialty Insurance Group, Inc.TM (Nasdaq: SKWD) (“Skyward Specialty” or “the Company”) a leader in the specialty property and casualty (P&C) market, announced its entry into the specialized aviation market with the launch of a new Aviation underwriting unit. The expansion follows the Company’s acquisition of the assets of Acceleration Aviation Underwriters (“Acceleration”) and builds on a strategic partnership between the two companies initiated last year.

    This move marks a bold step forward in the Company’s ongoing growth strategy, leveraging technology and data-driven underwriting to expand into highly specialized and underserved markets.

    “For the Acceleration team, this is the culmination of our decades long career, and I am very proud to join Skyward Specialty to see our legacy continue,” said Chris Jones, founder of Acceleration Aviation Underwriters. “With Skyward Specialty’s growth-driven strategy and our deep underwriting knowledge, we have the backing and scale to realize the full potential of our business. I am very excited to be part of this next phase in Acceleration’s future and establish Skyward Specialty’s place in the aviation market.”

    With the acquisition, Skyward Specialty gains a seasoned team of aviation experts with a proven track record of success in niche, underserved segments, which is an ideal complement to the Company’s focus on complex and hard-to-place risks.

    “Over the past couple of years, we have built a terrific relationship with the Acceleration team including as a program manager writing on behalf of Skyward Specialty. They’ve carved out a smart, sustainable niche, particularly in smaller, overlooked risks within the aviation market and we find this is fits well within our strategy,” said Andrew Robinson, Chairman & CEO of Skyward Specialty. “By combining their deep expertise with our advanced analytics and tech-enabled underwriting capabilities, we are well positioned to scale this business and strengthen our position in the aviation market. This integration further reflects our commitment to our strategy to invest in specialty markets where insights, precision and innovation drive lasting value.”

    About Skyward Specialty
    Skyward Specialty (Nasdaq: SKWD) is a rapidly growing and innovative specialty insurance company, delivering commercial property and casualty products and solutions on a non-admitted and admitted basis. The Company operates through nine underwriting divisions — Accident & Health, Agriculture and Credit (Re)insurance, Captives, Construction & Energy Solutions, Global Property, Professional Lines, Specialty Programs, Surety and Transactional E&S.

    Skyward Specialty’s subsidiary insurance companies consist of Great Midwest Insurance Company, Houston Specialty Insurance Company, Imperium Insurance Company, and Oklahoma Specialty Insurance Company. These insurance companies are rated A (Excellent) with a stable outlook by A.M. Best Company. For more information about Skyward Specialty, its people, and its products, please visit skywardinsurance.com.

    Media Contact
    Haley Doughty
    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group
    713-935-4944
    hdoughty@skywardinsurance.com

    Investor Contact
    Natalie Schoolcraft
    Skyward Specialty Insurance Group
    614-494-4988
    nschoolcraft@skywardinsurance.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Keeping Pace with Evolving Security Features: Regula Upgrades the 4306 Comparator for Advanced Forensics

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RESTON, Va., June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Regula’s top-selling video spectral comparator has undergone a major redesign to meet the growing complexity of modern-day document examination. The new modification Regula 4306M incorporates enhanced light sources and a high-resolution camera, ensuring forensic experts can detect even the most intricate protective elements. This upgrade strengthens document examination capabilities across forensic labs, border control points, and law enforcement agencies.

    The upgraded video spectral comparator Regula 4306M

    The Regula 4306M boasts a wide spectrum of different light sources, including ones new to this model. Among such light modes are:

    • Newly developed multifunctional coaxial light that enables the visualization of embossing, retroreflective security features, and polycarbonate reliefs.
    • Enhanced Anti-Stokes visualization with long exposure that helps forensic experts to detect previously invisible luminescence details, crucial for examining advanced security elements.
    • Intensified diffused white light source to optimize the visualization of DID (diffractive identification) security elements and OVD (optical variable device) effects that change color or image depending on the angle of observation.

    “Document examination heavily depends on the quality of visualization. The more accurately a forensic device captures fine details, the more effective the analysis becomes. Elements like microprinting, watermarks, and optically variable features are designed to be difficult to replicate, but nothing is impossible for fraudsters. Without the right visualization techniques, even the most experienced experts may miss critical signs of forgery. That is why we invest so much research and development into constantly upgrading our devices,” explains Alex Lewanowicz, Director of Hardware Engineering at Regula.

    To maximize the examination capabilities, Regula 4306M provides:

    • 60x magnification and up to 18,900 ppi for document images thanks to its custom-designed high-resolution built-in 8 MP camera.
    • 40+ light sources covering even the rarest document examination scenarios.
    • 100% LED-based illumination for precision lighting control.
    • 3D visualization for analyzing surface relief, intersecting strokes, and printing techniques.
    • Large-object examination capabilities, allowing experts to inspect not only identity documents and banknotes, but oversized objects as well.

    The new Regula 4306M is controlled via Regula Forensic Studio operating software, an out-of-the-box cross-platform solution that facilitates document examination and creates a smooth user experience. Powered by Regula Document Reader SDK, this software makes it possible to fully automate ID authenticity verification: the device can recognize the document type and validate all its data from the MRZ, RFID chip, and barcodes in mere seconds with zero risk of human-related errors.

    Most importantly, the upgraded Regula 4306M delivers versatile capabilities for in-depth document examination in a space-saving and cost-efficient form, which makes it an affordable solution for any forensic lab.

    For more information about the capabilities of the redesigned Regula 4306M, visit Regula’s official website.

    About Regula

    Regula is a global developer of forensic devices and identity verification solutions. With our 30+ years of experience in forensic research and the most comprehensive library of document templates in the world, we create breakthrough technologies for document and biometric verification. Our hardware and software solutions allow over 1,000 organizations and 80 border control authorities globally to provide top-notch client service without compromising safety, security, or speed. Regula has been repeatedly named a Representative Vendor in the Gartner® Market Guide for Identity Verification.

    Learn more at www.regulaforensics.com.

    Contact:
    Kristina – ks@regulaforensics.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/409ad273-8cca-41af-be70-21aa1516836f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Provident Bank Mid-Year Survey Shows Business Owners Balancing Tariff Concerns with Economic Optimism

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ISELIN, N.J., June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Provident Bank, a leading New Jersey-based financial institution, has released the results of its Mid-Year Business Outlook Survey, taking stock of business owner sentiment as they navigate a nuanced macroeconomic environment dominated by looming tariffs. This year’s survey revealed positivity around the economy, with lingering concerns around the impact of tariffs and businesses making short-term decisions that reflect this uncertainty.

    Business owners believe the economy will grow, yet there is mixed sentiment around tariffs.
    Overall, business owners believe the economy will grow in the back half of 2025, yet their view of tariffs is less positive. While the full effect of tariffs has yet to be felt, general sentiment is that they aren’t good for the economy.

    • Over 60% of businesses believe the economy will grow over the next six months. Yet, there is a clear level of dissatisfaction with the ongoing tariff policies, as over 55% of respondents believe they’re having a negative impact on the United States.
    • Over 70% of respondents are “very” to “moderately” concerned about the impact of tariffs on their businesses. However, the impact to date has been minimal, with over 80% of businesses saying there has been “somewhat of an impact” or “none”.
    • When looking at tariffs across the board, over 35% said to keep tariffs in some capacity, 45% said to eliminate them altogether, and just under 20% said to keep them as proposed. Over 50% of respondents said tariffs are making the United States weaker.

    Businesses anticipate tariff consequences, though the full effect is yet to be seen.
    Most business owners expect tariffs to affect their revenue, with many using careful inventory management and sales promotions to lessen the potential effect. Regarding future planning, respondents noted delaying capital expenditures, and most reported no change in hiring practices.

    • Over half of respondents believe that tariffs will, in some capacity, decrease their business’ revenue.
    • Responses to inventory adjustments were closely split. 32.55% noted that they have adjusted their inventory levels, and 31.69% are still evaluating.
    • Regarding hiring, just under 30% are planning to halt hiring, while nearly 50% say that their hiring plans remain unchanged.
    • Most business owners aren’t taking immediate action on sales promotions to account for weaker demand, with 34% taking no action and just over 30% still evaluating.
    • The slight majority (41.68%) of respondents are planning to delay major capital expenditures. In addition, just over 37% of businesses expect to pass the cost of tariffs onto their customers, and just under 30% expect to absorb the cost.

    “Despite business owners voicing concerns about tariffs, our survey demonstrates a positive growth outlook in the near future,” stated Bill Fink, Executive Vice President, Chief Lending Officer at Provident Bank. “We’re observing businesses strategically adapting to this environment by proactively managing inventory and planning capital expenditures. At Provident Bank, we deeply understand our clients’ businesses through close partnerships, which allows us to effectively address their unique challenges. We are dedicated to providing the financial support and resources they need to thrive in today’s dynamic lending landscape, leveraging our in-depth knowledge of their operations.”

    The survey was conducted by Pollfish, a market research provider, on behalf of Provident Bank. The findings are based on responses from 1,000 business owners and senior executives in the U.S. working for companies with over $1M in annual revenue. To access the full findings, please contact Provident Bank’s Public Relations Agency, Vested, at providentbank@fullyvested.com.

    About Provident Bank
    Founded in Jersey City in 1839, Provident Bank is the oldest community-focused financial institution based in New Jersey and is the wholly owned subsidiary of Provident Financial Services, Inc. (NYSE:PFS). With assets of $24.22 billion as of March 31, 2025, Provident Bank offers a wide range of customized financial solutions for businesses and consumers with an exceptional customer experience delivered through its convenient network of more than 140 branches across New Jersey and parts of New York and Pennsylvania, via mobile and online banking, and from its customer contact center. The bank also provides fiduciary and wealth management services through its wholly owned subsidiary, Beacon Trust Company, and insurance services through its wholly owned subsidiary, Provident Protection Plus, Inc. To learn more about Provident Bank, go to www.provident.bank or call our customer contact center at 800.448.7768.

    Media Contact:
    Keith Buscio – Keith.Buscio@provident.bank
    Vested – Providentbank@fullyvested.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: New Data Demonstrates Significant Clinical and Quality-of-Life Benefits of Flexitouch® Plus in Treating Lymphedema Among Head and Neck Cancer Survivors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MINNEAPOLIS, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tactile Systems Technology, Inc. (“Tactile Medical”; the “Company”) (Nasdaq: TCMD), a medical technology company providing therapies for people with chronic disorders, today announced the presentation of new clinical data at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) 2025 Annual Meeting that demonstrates significant clinical and quality-of-life benefits associated with use of the Company’s Flexitouch Plus versus usual care in treating patients with head and neck cancer-related lymphedema.

    “Current modalities for managing head and neck cancer-related lymphedema include therapist guided lymphedema treatment and lifelong home-based self-care. However, data shows that patients face substantial barriers to accessing these modalities, which limits the number of patients receiving treatment and delaying therapy initiation for those who do,” said Principal Investigator, Barbara Murphy, MD, Professor of Medicine, Director, Head and Neck Research Program, and Director, Pain and Symptom Management Program at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. “Our study found that advanced pneumatic pump technology provides a feasible alternative that reduces swelling, increases speed to initial therapy, and generates strong quality-of-life outcomes.”

    The two-month analysis featured data from the Company’s six-month clinical trial, which examines the effectiveness of Flexitouch Plus, an advanced pneumatic compression device (APCD), versus usual care in treating lymphedema among head and neck cancer survivors. The study includes 236 subjects across 10 academic and community sites, representing the largest prospective, randomized controlled study on this patient group ever conducted in the United States. Outcome measures include changes in disease-specific patient-reported symptom survey scores and objective clinical assessments, including CT imaging.

    Two-month data demonstrated that usual care and APCD are similarly effective treatment modalities for head and neck lymphedema. Specific areas of differentiation showed:

    • Usual care participants took an average of 29.8 days to begin therapist guided lymphedema treatment (TGLT), while APCD participants received their device in 17.9 days;
    • Of participants randomized to usual care, only 71% received TGLT compared to 94.9% of those in the APCD group;
    • APCD participants had significant reduction in swelling via digital photography and total Head and Neck Cancer Related Lymphedema and Fibrosis Grading (HN-LEFG) scores while usual care participants exhibited marginal improvements; and
    • Self-reported symptom improvement occurred in both groups, with APCD demonstrating significant improvement on three of the six health-related quality-of-life sub scales.

    “Tactile is committed to elevating lymphedema therapy with meaningful evidence generation, and these early results validate Flexitouch Plus as an effective option in treating head and neck cancer-related lymphedema,” said Sheri Dodd, Chief Executive Officer of Tactile Medical. “90% of head and neck cancer survivors will develop lymphedema, and we are pleased to provide a solution that supports the patient’s needs and timeline for effective symptom management. We look forward to the six-month results from this significant trial later this year. We expect this to support more expansive reimbursement coverage by commercial payers, inform clinical guidelines, and drive broader patient and provider awareness, ultimately improving access to care.”

    Flexitouch Plus is an FDA-cleared therapy designed for at-home treatment of lymphedema, chronic edema, chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), and chronic wounds.*

    About Tactile Systems Technology, Inc. (DBA Tactile Medical)

    Tactile Medical is a leader in developing and marketing at-home therapies for people suffering from underserved, chronic conditions including lymphedema, lipedema, chronic venous insufficiency and chronic pulmonary disease by helping them live better and care for themselves at home. Tactile Medical collaborates with clinicians to expand clinical evidence, raise awareness, increase access to care, reduce overall healthcare costs and improve the quality of life for tens of thousands of patients each year.

    Investor Inquiries:
    Sam Bentzinger
    Gilmartin Group
    investorrelations@tactilemedical.com

    *Individual results may vary. For full prescribing information, including contraindications, warnings and instructions for use, please visit www.tactilemedical.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Intermex and Houston Dynamo FC Partner to Celebrate Latino Heritage and the Spirit of Fútbol

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  International Money Express, Inc. (NASDAQ: IMXI) (“Intermex” or the “Company”, a leading money remittance provider to Latin America and the Caribbean, today announced a new official partnership with Houston Dynamo FC, one of Major League Soccer’s most community-driven teams. This collaboration unites two organizations deeply committed to uplifting and celebrating Latino culture through the unifying passion of soccer.

    Soccer is the fastest-growing sport in the United States, with more than 85 million fans nationwide. In Houston, a city where over 45% of the population identifies as Latino, the connection runs even deeper. Latino fans make up nearly 70% of the MLS audience, making the city a natural home for this partnership. Together, Intermex and Houston Dynamo FC aim to champion cultural pride, family connection, and community empowerment.

    “Intermex is the only remittance company built by Latinos for Latinos. Partnering with Houston Dynamo FC allows us to celebrate that shared heritage and connect with our customers beyond financial services, through a sport that speaks to identity, passion, and tradition,” said Marcelo Theodoro, Chief Product, Marketing & Digital Officer at Intermex.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Intermex to the club, they are a cutting-edge organization that shares our commitment to elevating our community and fostering civic pride,” Dynamo Vice President of Corporate Partnerships, Ben Carruthers said. “Intermex’s dedication to serving diverse communities aligns perfectly with our mission both on and off the pitch. Together, we look forward to delivering exciting experiences to our fans and supporting the vibrant, diverse culture synonymous with our city.” Through this partnership, Intermex and Houston Dynamo FC will collaborate on in-stadium experiences, community events, and cultural celebrations that highlight and honor the vibrancy of the Latino community.

    About Intermex
    Founded in 1994, Intermex applies proprietary technology to enable consumers to send money from the United States, Canada, Spain, Italy, the United Kingdom, and Germany to more than 60 countries. The company facilitates digital money movement through its website and mobile app, as well as through a vast network of retail agents and company-operated stores. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, Intermex also operates international offices in Puebla, Mexico; Guatemala City, Guatemala; London, England; and Madrid, Spain. Learn more at www.intermexonline.com.

    About Houston Dynamo FC
    Houston Dynamo FC is a Major League Soccer team and part of the Houston Dynamo Football Club, a multi-faceted organization that includes the Dynamo, the Houston Dash and the Houston Dynamo Academy, and Dynamo and Dash Charities. Ted Segal acquired a majority ownership interest in HDFC in June 2021 and serves as the chairman of the Club. Under his leadership the organization completed a multi-million-dollar renovation of Shell Energy Stadium in March 2023 and the Club moved into a 27,000 square foot headquarters in East Downtown in July 2023. Houston Dynamo FC has won two MLS Cup championships, two Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cups and four conference championships in its first 19 seasons and has qualified to represent the United States in international competition eight times. The team trains at the Champions Field at Houston Sports Park (HSP), the premier training facility in Southeast Texas, and plays its home matches at Shell Energy Stadium in downtown Houston. For more information, log on to www.HoustonDynamoFC.com or call (713) 276-7500.    

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Alex Sadowski
    Investor Relations Coordinator
    ir@intermexusa.com
    305-671-8000

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Fierce Medtech Names AI Pathology Leader Proscia to 2025 Fierce 15

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PHILADELPHIA, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Proscia®, a software company accelerating pathology’s transition to digital and AI, today announced its inclusion in Fierce Medtech’s “Fierce 15” of 2025. This annual list honors private companies making an outsized impact on healthcare. Proscia earned its spot for its AI pathology leadership across the precision medicine value chain.

    Proscia’s Concentriq® platform delivers a uniquely comprehensive approach to AI from drug discovery to diagnostics. It incorporates a portfolio of best-in-class applications, tools for building algorithms, and AI-native features into routine workflows, helping its user base of over 12,000 pathologists and scientists to drive efficiencies, identify novel biomarkers, and develop and deploy companion diagnostics. Concentriq is trusted by 16 of the top 20 pharmaceutical companies as well as major laboratories set to diagnose 32,000 patients per day on the platform this year.

    “AI in pathology is about much more than use case-specific applications and individual foundation models,” said David West, Proscia’s CEO. “We’re equipping both life sciences organizations and diagnostic laboratories to fully harness AI’s potential to rewire pathology and drive precision medicine forward. Fierce Medtech’s recognition validates the impact of our broad approach for our users and patients.”

    This honor builds on a series of high-impact milestones for Proscia. Last week, Labcorp announced it adopted Concentriq LS to accelerate clinical trials and companion diagnostic development as part of its expanded precision oncology portfolio. Proscia also recently launched Concentriq Embeddings to accelerate AI development with foundation models, demonstrating a 13x efficiency gain. Additionally, the company introduced a real-world data offering enabling data scientists to leverage over 10 million pathology images with associated clinical and genomic data to fuel their AI algorithms.

    Proscia is continuing to accelerate its momentum. In March, the company announced $50M in funding led by Insight Partners to increasingly weave AI into Concentriq’s core and drive its commercial growth. The company is also adding to the 120+ research and diagnostic applications already available on the platform through its precision medicine AI portfolio.

    Proscia will demonstrate the accessibility of its AI development tools at the Digital Pathology & AI Congress in its hometown of Philadelphia. On June 4, it will host a pre-conference workshop where participants can build functional AI applications in under two hours without programming experience. Learn more about ‘From Pixels to Insight’ and register to attend here.

    View the full Fierce 15 list here.

    About Proscia
    Proscia is a software company accelerating pathology’s transition to a digital, data-driven discipline and enabling AI to advance precision medicine. Its Concentriq enterprise pathology platform, precision medicine AI portfolio, and real-world data fuel the development and use of novel therapies and diagnostics to drive the fight against humanity’s most challenging diseases, like cancer. 16 of the top 20 pharmaceutical companies and a global network of diagnostic laboratories rely on Proscia’s solutions each day. The company has FDA 510(k) clearance and CE-IVDR certification for its diagnostic software. For more information, visit proscia.com, and follow Proscia on LinkedIn and X.

    Contact:
    Sydney Fenkell
    VP, Marketing Communications
    sydney@proscia.com
    215.816.3436

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MARA Announces Bitcoin Production and Mining Operation Updates for May 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Record High 282 Blocks Earned in May, 38% Increase M/M
    950 Bitcoin Produced, 35% Increase M/M
    Increased BTC Holdings* to 49,179 BTC

    Fort Lauderdale, FL, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MARA Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: MARA) (“MARA” or the “Company”), a vertically integrated digital energy and infrastructure company that leverages high-intensity compute, such as bitcoin mining, to monetize excess energy and optimize power management, today published unaudited bitcoin (“bitcoin” or “BTC”) production updates for May 2025.

    Management Commentary

    “May was a record-breaking month for MARA with 282 blocks won, a 38% increase over April and a new monthly high,” said Fred Thiel, MARA’s chairman and CEO. “Our total bitcoin holdings surpassed 49,000 BTC during May and the 950 bitcoin produced were the most since the halving event in April 2024.

    “Our fully integrated tech stack is a key differentiator, and MARA Pool is the only self-owned and operated mining pool among public miners, offering greater control and efficiency. Operating our pool means no fees to external operators and retention of the full value of block rewards. Production in May also benefitted from block reward luck. Since launch, MARA Pool’s block reward luck has outperformed the network average by over 10%, contributing to our industry-leading block production.

    “We remain laser-focused on transforming MARA into a vertically integrated digital energy and infrastructure company. We believe this model gives us tighter operational control, improves cost-efficiency, and makes us more resilient to shifts in the broader economy.”

    Operational Highlights and Updates

    Figure 1: Operational Highlights

        Prior Month Comparison  
    Metric   5/31/2025     4/30/2025     % Δ  
    Number of Blocks Won 1     282       205       38 %
    BTC Produced     950       705       35 %
    Average BTC Produced per Day     30.7       23.5       31 %
    Share of available miner rewards 2     6.5 %     5.1 %     NM  
    Transaction Fees as % of Total 1     1.5 %     1.3 %     NM  
    Energized Hashrate (EH/s) 1     58.3       57.3       2.0 %
                             
    1. These metrics are MARAPool only and do not include blocks won from joint ventures.
    2. Defined as the total amount of block rewards including transaction fees that MARA earned during the period divided by the total amount of block rewards and transaction fees awarded by the Bitcoin network during the period.

    NM – Not Meaningful

    As of May 31, 2025, the Company held a total of 49,179 BTC*. MARA opted not to sell any BTC in May.

    *Includes loaned and collateralized bitcoin

    Investor Notice
    Investing in our securities involves a high degree of risk. Before making an investment decision, you should carefully consider the risks, uncertainties and forward-looking statements described under the heading “Risk Factors” in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any other periodic reports that we may file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). If any of these risks were to occur, our business, financial condition or results of operations would likely suffer. In that event, the value of our securities could decline, and you could lose part or all of your investment. The risks and uncertainties we describe are not the only ones facing us. Additional risks not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business operations. In addition, our past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance, and historical trends should not be used to anticipate results in the future. See “Forward-Looking Statements” below.

    The operational highlights and updates presented in this press release pertain solely to our BTC mining operations. Detailed information regarding our other operations can be found in our periodic reports filed with the SEC.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included in this press release are forward-looking statements. The words “may,” “will,” “could,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “intend,” “believe,” “continue,” “target” and similar expressions or variations or negatives of these words are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Such forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements related to the expected benefits of MARA’s transformation into a vertically integrated digital energy and infrastructure company. Such forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations about future events as of the date hereof and involve many risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in our forward-looking statements. Subsequent events and developments, including actual results or changes in our assumptions, may cause our views to change. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements except to the extent required by applicable law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements included herein are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. Our actual results and outcomes could differ materially from those included in these forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, the factors set forth under the heading “Risk Factors” in our most recent annual report on Form 10-K, and any other periodic reports that we may file with the SEC.

    About MARA

    MARA (NASDAQ:MARA) is a global leader in digital asset compute that develops and deploys innovative technologies to build a more sustainable and inclusive future. MARA secures the world’s preeminent blockchain ledger and supports the energy transformation by converting clean, stranded, or otherwise underutilized energy into economic value.

    For more information, visit www.mara.com, or follow us on:

    Twitter: @MARAHoldings
    LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/maraholdings
    Facebook: www.facebook.com/MARAHoldings
    Instagram: @maraholdingsinc

    MARA Company Contact:
    Telephone: 800-804-1690
    Email: ir@mara.com

    MARA Media Contact:
    Email: marathon@wachsman.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pilot restocking project boosts rare glass eels in the Kennet

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Pilot restocking project boosts rare glass eels in the Kennet

    Innovative project sees nearly 23,000 protected glass eels transferred to the River Kennet.

    Environment Agency officers releasing the eels.

    A new Environment Agency research project has seen 22,914 rare and protected glass eels swap the River Severn for a new home in the Berkshire this month.

    The eels were transferred in late April to nine locations on the Kennet chalk stream by Environment Agency fisheries specialists, initiating a research project that will monitor their development.

    Peter Gray, Environment Agency fisheries team leader, said:

    We are working hard to address the many struggles that eels face and are taking action to safeguard this critically endangered species.

    Over the coming months and years, we will closely monitor the released eels to see how they are surviving and growing. Eventually we want to discover whether this type of management produces more eels going out to sea to breed.

    Eels are born in the Sargasso Sea in the North Atlantic Ocean. From there, they float in their larval form on ocean currents towards Europe – journeying more than 3,000 miles for up to 2 years. Once they reach the coast, they turn into transparent glass eels up to 8cm long and then elvers, up to 12cm in length, swimming upstream into rivers. Here they live for around 6-10 years as juveniles/sub-adult yellow eels, before swimming downstream and eventually returning to the Sargasso Sea as mature adults to breed -silver eels.

    In the 1980s, populations of the once-common eel started to decline all around Europe; the reasons for this are unclear but may be due to over-fishing, habitat loss and fragmentation, parasites or climate change. The numbers of new, young eels arriving at our shores are now a tiny percentage of those that arrived in the 1960s and 1970s.

    Through the Environment Agency’s fisheries management programs, fish stocks are increasing to provide even more opportunities for South East anglers. Without the income from rod licences this vital work would not be possible.

    Any angler aged 13 or over, fishing on a river, canal or still water needs a licence to fish. A one-day licence costs from just £7.10, and an annual licence currently costs from just £35.80. Concessions available. Junior licences are free for 13 – 16-year-olds.

    Licences are available from www.gov.uk/get-a-fishing-licence or by calling the Environment Agency on 0344 800 5386 between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

    The Environment Agency carries out enforcement work all-year-round and is supported by partners, including the police and the Angling Trust. Fisheries enforcement work is intelligence-led, targeting known hot-spots and where illegal fishing is reported.

    The close season for coarse fishing came into effect on 15 March and runs until 15 June inclusive to prevent fishing for coarse fish in rivers and streams across England, helping to protect fish when they are spawning and supporting vulnerable stocks.

    Throughout the close season, Environment Agency officers conduct patrols to ensure anglers respect the no fishing period. Notices have been displayed in key fishing areas across the South East reminding anglers of the law.

    Anyone with information about suspected illegal fishing activities can contact the Environment Agency 24-hour incident hotline on 0800 807060 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    Contact us:

    Journalists only: 0800 141 2743 or communications_se@environment-agency.gov.uk.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major redevelopment scheme nears completion on key city road

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Tuesday, 3rd June 2025

    A transformation project to improve a major route which connects Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station and the city centre is nearing completion.

    Work to improve the highway across a mile-long corridor spanning College Road Cleveland Road, Shirley Road and Regent Road, in Shelton, has been ongoing since August 2023.

    As part of the scheme, a full carriageway reconstruction has been carried out – ensuring it’s fit-for-purpose for the next 20 years.

    The improvements also include new pedestrian crossings, upgraded bus stops and shelters, enhanced lighting and planting, as well as a dedicated cycle lane north of Avenue Road.

    The final section of the scheme – between Avenue Road Roundabout and Station Road – is scheduled for completion on Friday, 6 June, marking the final phase of this major redevelopment project.

    Minor outstanding works—including snagging, signage installation, bus shelter works, and final commissioning of the bus lane—are expected to be completed during summer 2025.

    Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “I am pleased that the work on College Road is nearing completion and I’m hopeful that motorists and pedestrians will feel the benefit of these improvements when travelling around the city.

    “Once complete, this transformative scheme will be a space that works for people – it will make it easier, safer and better for everyone to get around and will improve the city’s public transport links.

    “We wanted to get the road opened up as quickly as possible and our teams will be getting on with the snagging works this week to minimise disruption.

    “The Station Road scheme outside Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station continues under construction and I look forward to its completion later this summer.”

    The redevelopment of College Road is part of the city council’s Transforming Cities Fund project which aims to help connect the railway station with the city centre and new developments such as Goods Yard, improve access for buses, pedestrians and cyclists, reduce congestion and improve safety at junctions.

    The scheme will also promote a better experience for residents, commuters, visitors and students as they travel around the city – and encourage more sustainable travel by rail, bus cycling and walking.

    It has been supported by £29 million from the government’s Transforming Cities Fund (TCF) and the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Active Travel Fund.

    Overnight work to complete the final section of College Road is being carried out over the next week. This work – aside from any snagging works – will see the final road surface laid and new road markings installed. It will take place on:

    • Monday 2 June to Friday 6 June – the Avenue Road roundabout will be closed between 8pm and 6am. There will be no access to the university car park during these hours.
    • Thursday 5 June and Friday 6 June – All of the side street junctions leading to College Road, including Cauldon Road, Beresford Street, Seaford Street, Ashford Street and Queen Anne Street between 8pm and 6am.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New build council homes in Bilston delivered in less than 9 months

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Developer Morro Partnerships Limited started construction on the City of Wolverhampton Council development of 7, 2 bedroom houses, 2, 3 bedroom houses and 2, 4 bedroom houses on Ettingshall Road, in September.

    The homes – built using sustainable building methods and modern timber frame construction – have this week been handed over to Wolverhampton Homes ready for the first tenants to move in.

    Each of the ‘A’ Rated, gas free homes come with solar panels and bring back into use land that had been blighted by fly-tipping in recent years.

    The houses are part of the latest phase of new council homes coming forward across the city, with development works underway or set to start in the coming months on 81 properties across 6 sites.

    The development has been supported by a £715,000 grant from Homes England.

    Councillor Stephen Simkins, City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, said: “This is a great example of how we are delivering good quality homes at pace and bringing small disused sites back into use for the benefit of our residents and communities.

    “There is an increasing demand for housing and this forms part of our pipeline of new council properties we are developing sustainably to deliver more good homes in well connected neighbourhoods across the city.

    “This development also builds substantially on the investment already made in Bilston in recent years that is seeing the town flourish and the homes will be allocated to local people in line with the council’s official housing allocations policy.”

    The carbon footprint of a timber frame is less than traditional structures, and this modern method of construction also helps to reduce energy consumption, helping to keep residents’ bills to a minimum.

    This is consistent with Morro’s pipeline of affordable homes across the Midlands, as part of their commitment to being better environment and better community makers.

    The Ettingshall Road development also included a dedicated segregation zone, with all materials being recycled on site. This reduces the amount being sent to landfill, whilst enabling materials to be recycled back into the environment quickly and efficiently.

    Tom Broadway, Managing Director at Morro Partnerships, said: “Having worked with Wolverhampton Council for some time now, it’s great to continue this relationship and help establish more sustainable communities. Transforming land such as this site in Bilston is so important to boost local pride, as well as providing places where people want to live.

    “These 11 homes have been designed with energy efficiency in mind, reducing bills and making life more comfortable for residents now and into the future. We look forward to continuing our pipeline of work in Wolverhampton, making a positive impact on neighbourhoods across the city.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Minister Smyth address to Medicine 2025 conference

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Speech

    Minister Smyth address to Medicine 2025 conference

    Minister Smyth addressed the annual conference of the Royal College of Physicians (RCP).

    Since 1948, this organisation has been one of the greatest allies advocating for universal access to healthcare, high standards in clinical practice and evidence-based medicine.

    And today, I really want to thank our members for everything that you have done over the past 14 years to hold our NHS together.

    Through no fault of your own, you’ve been through the worst crisis in the history of the NHS, with waiting lists at historic highs, patient satisfaction at record lows, people struggling to see a GP, ambulances not turning up on time. Any department is full to bursting. That founding promise, that the NHS will always be there for us when we need it, broken.

    But as someone who had my own career 30 years ago in the health service, I completely understand how demoralising this has been for so many staff, how powerless people have felt desperately trying to stop standards slipping or holding a broken system together.

    That’s how I felt as an NHS leader locally, watching the disastrous 2012 reorganisation imposed from the top down, despite all the warnings from frontline leaders and staff. And since then we’ve also had to deal with underinvestment and the global pandemic.

    But while those blows may have left the NHS broken, it’s not beaten. Every day there are amazing people delivering outstanding and compassionate care. Despite all of those challenges, day in, day out, you show up for work and you fight to deliver the very best care possible for your patients.

    Since coming into office, this government has done everything we can to support you. To restore that basic founding principle that the NHS should always be there for us when we need it. With our Plan for Change, we have hit the ground running.

    As our first step, we promised 2 million more appointments in our first year. Promise made, promise kept: we delivered our promise 7 months early and we’ve reached our target, delivering not 2 but 3 million more appointments since July, and counting.

    We’ve got waiting lists down by over 200,000 people.

    We ended the strike within 3 weeks and have now delivered 2 above-inflation pay rises for NHS staff.

    We’ve invested an extra £26 billion in health and care.

    We’ve recruited 1,500 more GPs, and agreed a GP contract for the first time since the pandemic.

    We’ve delivered the biggest investment to hospitals in a generation.

    The biggest expansion of carer’s allowance since the 1970s.

    A boost for older and disabled people through the Disabled Facilities Grant.

    The biggest real-terms increase to the Public Health Grant in nearly a decade.

    We’ve given pharmacies the biggest funding uplift in a generation.

    For patients, we’ve frozen prescription charges.

    We’ve struck a new deal that will mean women will be able to get the morning-after pill from pharmacies across the country, absolutely free of charge.

    A lot done but, we know, a hell of a lot more left to do.

    But from day one we have been clear that investment must come with reform.

    Our job is twofold.

    First, to get the NHS back on its feet, treating patients on time again; and second, to reform the service for the long term, so it is fit for the future.

    This summer we will publish our 10 Year Plan for health. Shifting the focus of healthcare out of hospital and into the community with more investment in primary and community care.

    Bringing our analogue health service into the digital age, arming staff with modern equipment and cutting-edge technology.

    And thirdly, turning our sickness service into a preventative health service to help people live well for longer and tackle the biggest killers.

    We’re supporting the effort of prevention through our smoking and vapes bill, to protect children and the most vulnerable to make this generation of kids the first smoke-free generation, and to save untold billions spent on their future care.

    The ban on junk food advertising targeted at children will be a first step in addressing the growing problem of childhood obesity, and those same kids are benefiting from breakfast clubs, so they start school with hungry minds and not hungry bellies.

    Our Mental Health Bill will stop the disgraceful incarceration of learning-disabled adults.

    We’re working with health unions, councils and employers to deliver the first ever Fair Pay Agreement for social care staff.

    And Louise Casey is leading the commission on social care, which will finally get a grip on a system that is broken for too many families.

    Because, as you all know so well, the pressures facing hospitals don’t start in hospitals, just as the problems facing the NHS don’t necessarily start in the NHS. They are a reflection of wider society.

    Fixing broken Britain will require more than fixing a broken NHS.

    After this speech, I’m going to add my own Post-it note to your interactive map.

    When my team asked me to think about the most pressing issue in my constituency of Bristol South, I was very quick to answer. Poverty.

    The health service can fix people when they’re broken, but we don’t want people broken.

    The factors that make my constituents unwell are wide-ranging, socioeconomic and environmental.

    In other words, the conditions in which we are born, grow, live and work. Secure jobs. Fair pay. Decent housing. Safe streets. Clean air. Accessible transport. The time and affordable facilities to exercise, and nutritious food.

    These are the essential building blocks of a healthy life.

    And that’s why this government is focused on economic growth and improving healthy life expectancy for all, while halving the gap in healthy life expectancy between different regions of England.

    And it’s why reform of the health service is so important, because every pound we spend on the health service is a pound that can’t be spent on what you and I call the social determinants of ill health, but what everyone else calls feeding hungry children, building warm homes and cleaning up our water and the air that we breathe.

    The NHS has often been compared to an oil tanker that has immense capacity but is slow to change direction. Shifting the focus of our health service will be an immense task and one that we can only accomplish with your help.

    We’ve already been clear that we’re embarking on a decade of national renewal and that’s why we’re launching a 10 Year Plan.

    Since coming into office, we’ve sought to reset the relationship with medics to improve working lives and restore value.

    This government was never going to be able to completely reverse a decade and a half of decline in only 10 months, but this year’s pay awards, the second above inflation pay rise in a row, demonstrates our commitment to rebuilding the NHS and rebuilding the pay conditions and morale of all NHS staff.

    When I joined the NHS 30 years ago, I saw the NHS at what I thought was the worst.

    I remember later on working with the team at the Bristol Royal Infirmary on urgent care, discussing those awful trolley waits, coming into work every day, people trying to find a space or somewhere to discharge people from A&E, conversations that, sadly, are all too familiar again today.

    But I also saw, especially in the years leading up to 2010, the pride people have when they’re working in an improving, well-run system.

    When you’re able to go home at the end of the day, knowing that your patients received the best possible care, and the pride, you know that you’re working at the top of your license as part of a team rebuilding a healthier Britain.

    The NHS cannot be saved by one person sitting behind a desk in Whitehall.

    We will only succeed if this is a team effort. From the Prime Minister to the 1.5 million people who work in the service, and the millions of us who use it to take decisions needed to lead healthier, more active lives.

    Turning the NHS around will take time.

    It really won’t be easy, but the prize, the prize available to us is huge and if we get this right, we will be able to say that we were the generation that took the NHS from the worst crisis in its history, got it back on its feet and made it fit for future generations.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Enlight Secures Financing for Spain’s Largest Hybrid Renewable Energy Project

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Enlight expands its successful Gecama Wind Project, transforming it into the largest hybrid power complex of its kind in Spain
    • The project combines wind, solar, and utility-scale battery storage to deliver clean electricity around the clock
    • The hybrid project, with a total capacity of 554 MW and 220 MWh, is expected to generate approximately $100 million in annual revenue
    • The project, among the first in Spain to incorporate a utility-scale battery energy storage system, is expected to enhance grid stability following extended blackouts recently experienced in the country

    TEL AVIV, Israel, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enlight Renewable Energy (“Enlight”, “the Company”, NASDAQ: ENLT, TASE: ENLT.TA), a leading renewable energy platform, today announced the signing of financing agreements totaling approximately $310 million for the Hybridisation of the Gecama Project in Spain. As part of the project, Enlight will integrate a solar array and utility-scale energy storage system at its operational Gecama facility. Gecama is currently the country’s largest wind farm, with a capacity of 329 MW.

    The integrated facility, with a total capacity of 554 MW and 220 MWh, will deliver clean electricity around the clock at a competitive cost of generation, yielding high returns. This performance is made possible by combining technologies with complementary generation profiles throughout most of the day, alongside a battery system that enables optimized use of energy resources.

    Once completed, the Gecama Hybrid Project is expected to become the largest renewable energy complex of its kind in Spain and to play a key role in advancing storage infrastructure in line with the Spanish national plan to combat climate change and enhance energy supply stability. The need for such energy storage systems is particularly pressing considering the widespread blackouts Spain experienced in April 2025.

    Enlight is among the first to deploy utility-scale battery storage at this scale in Spain. The battery system will also support peak shifting – storing electricity when prices are low and discharging during high-demand periods – thereby increasing the project’s profitability. Additionally, it will provide essential grid services such as frequency response, helping stabilize the power system through rapid charge and discharge capabilities.

    Subject to the completion of final development milestones, the solar and storage components of the Hybrid Project are expected to reach commercial operation (COD) in the second half of 2026. Their addition is expected to increase the Gecama Project’s annual revenues by $38–40 million and EBITDA by $31–33 million in the first full year of operation. With all three components in full operation, the integrated project is expected to generate annual revenues of $95–105 million and EBITDA of $75–80 million.

    The financing transaction of approximately $310 million includes two tranches: covering the refinancing of the Gecama Wind Project and financing for the construction of the Hybrid Project. Both tranches bear a fixed interest rate of ~5.1% and will be fully amortizing by 2045 and 2046, respectively.

    After repaying the existing debt and funding necessary reserves and transaction costs, over $150 million of the secured debt will be allocated to the construction of the Hybrid Project, with a total estimated cost of $195–205 million, while the remaining balance will be funded through equity.

    The financing is led by the MEAG Infrastructure Debt Transactions team, acting as sole arranger in its capacity as portfolio manager of certain funds and accounts, along with additional institutional co-investors. MEAG is the asset management arm of Munich Re, one of the world’s leading providers of reinsurance, primary insurance and insurance-related risk solutions.

    The financing is structured on a merchant basis – which grants the Company full discretion to sell the project’s entire electricity output on the open market, without a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) – This approach reflects the high level of confidence in Enlight’s management capabilities and the economic potential of the Gecama site.

    This model, combined with elevated electricity prices in Europe, has enabled Enlight to generate high returns and recover more than 50% of its equity investment in the wind project within a relatively short period since the facility’s commercial operation in 2022.

    Benjamin Hemming, Head of MEAG Illiquid Assets Debt: “We are thrilled to have supported Enlight in this groundbreaking project, which showcases the potential for hybrid renewable energy solutions to transform the way we generate and consume energy. The Gecama Hybridisation Project is a testament to the innovative spirit of our partners and the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions. We are proud to have worked alongside Enlight and other stakeholders to bring this project to life, and we look forward to seeing its impact on Spain’s energy landscape.”

    Isil Tanriverdi Versmissen, Head of MEAG Infrastructure Debt: “The Gecama Hybridisation Project is a perfect example of the power of collaboration and innovative financing solutions in driving the transition to a low-carbon economy. We would like to extend our appreciation to Enlight for their vision and leadership in developing this project, and to our deal team for their tireless efforts in bringing this complex transaction to a successful close. As a debt provider, we are committed to supporting projects that make a positive impact on the environment and the communities they serve, and we believe that the Gecama Hybridisation Project will be a landmark example of this commitment in action.”

    Gilad Yavetz, CEO of Enlight: “With the financial close at Gecama, Enlight marks another significant milestone in its European activity, by expanding one of its core assets into Spain’s first hybrid complex of its kind. This move is groundbreaking on two levels – establishing the country’s largest renewable energy complex and demonstrating technological leadership through the integration of utility-scale battery storage. The project reflects our Connect & Expand strategy – maximizing the potential of existing interconnection infrastructure to scale projects – reducing investment costs, minimizing risk, lowering the levelized cost of electricity and optimizing financial returns. Gecama Hybrid joins a lineup of mega-projects we are currently advancing as part of a broad growth plan set to unfold during 2025 across Europe, Israel, and the U.S. We are proud to have MEAG as the lead arranger in this transaction, and greatly value their trust, professionalism, and partnership in advancing such an ambitious and impactful project.”

    Enlight was supported by reputable advisors in the transaction. BNP Paribas acted as the sole financial advisor and DLA Piper as the Legal advisor in the transaction.

    MEAG was supported by Linklaters acting as the lenders’ legal advisor and by G-Advisory and Hartford Steam Boiler acting as technical advisors to the lenders

    *Enlight indirectly holds approximately 72% of the Gecama Project through its subsidiary, with the remaining interest held by several Israeli institutional investors.

    About Enlight

    Founded in 2008, Enlight develops, finances, constructs, owns, and operates utility-scale renewable energy projects. Enlight operates across the three largest renewable segments today: solar, wind and energy storage. A global platform, Enlight operates in the United States, Israel and 10 European countries. Enlight has been traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange since 2010 (TASE: ENLT) and completed its U.S. IPO (Nasdaq: ENLT) in 2023. Learn more at www.enlightenergy.co.il.

    Investor Contact
    Yonah Weisz
    Director IR
    investors@enlightenergy.co.il

    Erica Mannion or Mike Funari
    Sapphire Investor Relations, LLC
    +1 617 542 6180
    investors@enlightenergy.co.il

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements as contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company’s expectations relating to the Project, the PPA and the related interconnection agreement and lease option, and the completion timeline for the Project, are forward-looking statements. The words “may,” “might,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “target,” “seek,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “contemplate,” “possible,” “forecasts,” “aims” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, though not all forward-looking statements use these words or expressions. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the following: our ability to site suitable land for, and otherwise source, renewable energy projects and to successfully develop and convert them into Operational Projects; availability of, and access to, interconnection facilities and transmission systems; our ability to obtain and maintain governmental and other regulatory approvals and permits, including environmental approvals and permits; construction delays, operational delays and supply chain disruptions leading to increased cost of materials required for the construction of our projects, as well as cost overruns and delays related to disputes with contractors; our suppliers’ ability and willingness to perform both existing and future obligations; competition from traditional and renewable energy companies in developing renewable energy projects; potential slowed demand for renewable energy projects and our ability to enter into new offtake contracts on acceptable terms and prices as current offtake contracts expire; offtakers’ ability to terminate contracts or seek other remedies resulting from failure of our projects to meet development, operational or performance benchmarks; various technical and operational challenges leading to unplanned outages, reduced output, interconnection or termination issues; the dependence of our production and revenue on suitable meteorological and environmental conditions, and our ability to accurately predict such conditions; our ability to enforce warranties provided by our counterparties in the event that our projects do not perform as expected; government curtailment, energy price caps and other government actions that restrict or reduce the profitability of renewable energy production; electricity price volatility, unusual weather conditions (including the effects of climate change, could adversely affect wind and solar conditions), catastrophic weather-related or other damage to facilities, unscheduled generation outages, maintenance or repairs, unanticipated changes to availability due to higher demand, shortages, transportation problems or other developments, environmental incidents, or electric transmission system constraints and the possibility that we may not have adequate insurance to cover losses as a result of such hazards; our dependence on certain operational projects for a substantial portion of our cash flows; our ability to continue to grow our portfolio of projects through successful acquisitions; changes and advances in technology that impair or eliminate the competitive advantage of our projects or upsets the expectations underlying investments in our technologies; our ability to effectively anticipate and manage cost inflation, interest rate risk, currency exchange fluctuations and other macroeconomic conditions that impact our business; our ability to retain and attract key personnel; our ability to manage legal and regulatory compliance and litigation risk across our global corporate structure; our ability to protect our business from, and manage the impact of, cyber-attacks, disruptions and security incidents, as well as acts of terrorism or war; changes to existing renewable energy industry policies and regulations that present technical, regulatory and economic barriers to renewable energy projects; the reduction, elimination or expiration of government incentives for, or regulations mandating the use of, renewable energy; our ability to effectively manage our supply chain and comply with applicable regulations with respect to international trade relations, the impact of tariffs on the cost of construction and our ability to mitigate such impact, sanctions, export controls and anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws; our ability to effectively comply with Environmental Health and Safety and other laws and regulations and receive and maintain all necessary licenses, permits and authorizations; our performance of various obligations under the terms of our indebtedness (and the indebtedness of our subsidiaries that we guarantee) and our ability to continue to secure project financing on attractive terms for our projects; limitations on our management rights and operational flexibility due to our use of tax equity arrangements; potential claims and disagreements with partners, investors and other counterparties that could reduce our right to cash flows generated by our projects; our ability to comply with tax laws of various jurisdictions in which we currently operate as well as the tax laws in jurisdictions in which we intend to operate in the future; the unknown effect of the dual listing of our ordinary shares on the price of our ordinary shares; various risks related to our incorporation and location in Israel; the costs and requirements of being a public company, including the diversion of management’s attention with respect to such requirements; certain provisions in our Articles of Association and certain applicable regulations that may delay or prevent a change of control; and other risk factors set forth in the section titled “Risk factors” in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and our other documents filed with or furnished to the SEC.

    These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as may be required by applicable law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    The MIL Network –

  • More than 4 million refugees have fled Sudan civil war, UN says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The number of people who have fled Sudan since the beginning of its civil war in 2023 has surpassed four million, U.N. refugee agency officials said on Tuesday, adding that many survivors faced inadequate shelter due to funding shortages.

    “Now in its third year, the 4 million people is a devastating milestone in what is the world’s most damaging displacement crisis at the moment,” U.N. refugee agency spokesperson Eujin Byun told a Geneva press briefing.

    “If the conflict continues in Sudan, thousands more people, we expect thousands more people will continue to flee, putting regional and global stability at stake,” she said.

    Sudan, which erupted in violence in April 2023, shares borders with seven countries: Chad, South Sudan, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Central African Republic and Libya.

    More than 800,000 of the refugees have arrived in Chad, where their shelter conditions are dire due to funding shortages, with only 14% of funding appeals met, UNHCR’s Dossou Patrice Ahouansou told the same briefing.

    “This is an unprecedented crisis that we are facing. This is a crisis of humanity. This is a crisis of … protection based on the violence that refugees are reporting,” he said.

    Many of those fleeing reported surviving terror and violence, he added, describing meeting a seven-year-old girl in Chad who was hurt in an attack on her home in Sudan’s Zamzam displacement camp that killed her father and two brothers and had to have her leg amputated during her escape. Her mother had been killed in an earlier attack, he said.

    Other refugees told stories of armed groups taking their horses and donkeys and forcing adults to draw their own family members by cart as they fled, he said.

    (Reuters)

  • Egypt: Indian delegation meets Arab League chief, stresses unified stance against terrorism

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    An all-party Indian Parliamentary delegation led by NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule called on League of Arab States Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit on Tuesday, underscoring India’s unified stance and collective determination to combat terrorism.

    The leaders stressed that countering terrorism is a priority for both the Arab League and India. The discussions focused on India’s wide-ranging political, economic, and cultural engagement with the Arab States.

    The delegation also had an engaging interaction with the vibrant Indian community in Egypt.

    “The community welcomed the visit of the delegation and the message carried by them to combat terrorism,” said the Indian Embassy in Cairo.

    On Monday, the delegation was briefed by Indian Ambassador to Egypt Suresh Reddy on the India-Egypt Strategic Partnership, Egypt’s strong stance against terrorism, solidarity with India after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, and the close bilateral collaboration on counter-terrorism.

    Later, the delegation had a fruitful engagement at the Egyptian Senate House with Senator Hossam Al-Khouly of Mostaqbal Watan Party and MP Hazem Omar, including the Chairpersons and members of other Parliamentary Committees.

    The Senate reaffirmed solidarity with India and reiterated the importance attached to the close strategic partnership between India and Egypt.

    This was followed by productive discussions with Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman MP Karim Darwish and other distinguished members of the Egyptian House of Representatives.

    The Indian parliamentarians also had insightful discussions with key interlocutors in Egypt, including former Ministers, distinguished authors and thought leaders. The discussions facilitated an enhanced understanding and appreciation of India’s commitment to economic growth, equitable development, and zero tolerance to terrorism.

    The delegation also paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at the Al-Horreya Park in Zamalek, Cairo.

    The delegation, a part of India’s diplomatic outreach on Operation Sindoor and carrying forth India’s strong message on zero-tolerance against terrorism, reached Egypt after concluding a successful visit to Ethiopia, South Africa, and Qatar.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Winfrith nuclear site: Have your say on decommissioning permits

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Winfrith nuclear site: Have your say on decommissioning permits

    Feedback wanted on environmental permits which propose leaving some low-level radioactive waste at the Dorset nuclear site as part of decommissioning.

    Winfrith will be knocked down and if permits are changed some low level radioactive waste will be buried.

    • This is the first time in England a company has proposed to do decommissioning work under the EA’s 2018 guidance.
    • Share your views on the proposals now that the consultation is open until 5 September.
    • If granted permission, the company will leave some low-level radioactive waste at the site.

    Feedback and views are being sought with the launch of a consultation on environmental permits to continue work to decommission the Winfrith nuclear site in Dorset.

    The site is operated by Nuclear Restoration Services Ltd (NRS). It operated between 1959 and 1992 and is now in the final stages of decommissioning. All the buildings will be knocked down and the site will be returned to heathland with public access.

    Decommissioning to follow fresh guidance for first time

    In a first for England, NRS will be using our “Guidance on Requirements for Release from Radioactive Substances Regulation,” (GRR) to progress site decommissioning to the next stage. The company has applied to the Environment Agency to vary its Radioactive Substances Regulations permit and for a new permit for non-radioactive waste:

    • NRS is proposing to bury some of the demolition waste on site and some of this will be low level radioactive waste. The company is applying to change its Radioactive Substances Regulations environmental permit to allow this.
    • NRS is also asking for a new Deposit for Recovery Environmental Permit to allow it to deposit non-radioactive waste at the site.

    The GRR guidance allows operators to leave radioactive and non-radioactive waste on site if it represents the best option after balancing social, economic and environmental factors.

    There can be benefits to leaving waste on site such as reduced lorry movements, earlier decommissioning of sites, and it saves space in national disposal facilities for waste that cannot be safely disposed of on-site. NRS must demonstrate these benefits to the Environment Agency.

    Winfrith operated between 1959 and 1992 and is now in the final stages of decommissioning.

    Sally Coble, the Environment Agency’s Nuclear Regulation Group south manager, said:

    We want to hear as many views as possible about the NRS proposals, and all comments will be carefully considered along with all existing information.

    We will only vary the radioactive substances permit if we believe that harm to the environment, people and wildlife will be minimised.

    If the applicant can demonstrate that the varied permit will meet all of the legal requirements, including those for the use of Best Available Techniques (BAT), public radiation dose and wildlife radiation dose, then we are legally obliged to grant the application.

    We intend to consult again in spring 2026 on our likely decision, before publishing a final decision in autumn 2026.

    Proposal to bury below ground structures with demolition waste

    Both the Steam Generating Heavy Water Reactor (SGHWR) and the Dragon reactor, the first experimental high temperature gas-cooled reactor, have large sub-surface structures or basements constructed from reinforced concrete.

    NRS plans to demolish all remaining site buildings including the reactor buildings to ground level and to use the demolition wastes produced to backfill the sub-surface structures. An engineered cap will be placed on top of the disposals to prevent rain getting in and this will likely be made from an artificial liner, a thick clay layer and a soil layer. 

    Some of the floors and walls of the sub-surface structures have low level radioactive contamination and some of the waste that will be used to backfill the structure will be low level radioactive waste.

    NRS will not be importing any waste to site from other locations. Only waste from the on-site demolition work will be used to fill the sub-surface structures.

    How to have your say

    You can have your say by submitting comments on our Citizen Space consultation pages:

    Please use the permit reference numbers if you contact us. All comments must be received by 11.59pm on 5 September 2025.

    Background

    The Environment Agency is the independent environmental regulator for the nuclear industry in England. We make sure that nuclear power stations and radioactive waste disposal sites meet our high standards of environmental protection throughout the stages of design, construction, operation and decommissioning.

    Operators of nuclear sites in England must have a permit for radioactive substances activities from the Environment Agency under the Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016 (EPR16). The environmental permits we issue to nuclear site operators contain strict conditions (rules) that they must follow at all times. See our decommissioning of nuclear sites and release from regulation guidance.

    Why we ask for the public’s views:

    • We aim to build and maintain confidence in our decision-making processes through our public engagement and consultation.
    • It is our responsibility to make decisions about environmental permit applications for radioactive waste disposal, but we consider that our decisions can be improved through consultation with a wide range of stakeholders.
    • We can all help to protect and improve the environment by being actively involved. Our public participation statement shows how our process is open, transparent and consultative.
    • Our approach to consultation is in line with the government’s published consultation principles. We would like people to understand our role in relation to radioactive waste disposal, what we are doing and why it’s important.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Hinkley Point B power station: Have your say on permit changes

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Hinkley Point B power station: Have your say on permit changes

    EDF Energy wants to change its existing radioactive substances environmental permit for the Hinkley Point B power station in Bridgwater, Somerset.

    EDF Energy wants to change its permit now that certain radioisotopes are no longer produced.

    • EDF Energy Nuclear Generation Ltd has applied to the Environment Agency to make changes to parts of its radioactive substances environmental permit.
    • Proposed permit changes would more accurately reflect the reducing radiological hazard and risks from Hinkley Point B.
    • The consultation will close on 1 July 2025.

    The Environment Agency is consulting on these specific permit application changes to give people the opportunity to understand the proposed changes and have their say on future decision making.

    The permit controls the receipt and disposal of radioactive waste and imposes conditions and limits on radioactive discharges to the environment. 

    Hinkley Point B’s advanced gas cooled reactors stopped generating power after 46 years in August 2022. It is currently in the defueling stage and working towards ‘Fuel Free Status’ before entering decommissioning. 

    Sally Coble, the Environment Agency’s Nuclear Regulation Group south manager, said:

    We have been working with EDF Energy on its application to vary parts of the environmental permit.

    The company is proposing to remove some radionuclide limits in its permit because certain radioisotopes are no longer produced. The proposed changes would more accurately reflect the reducing radiological hazard and risks from Hinkley Point B

    Our consultation is now open. We are encouraging people to learn more about the proposed changes and provide us with any information that they think is relevant to decision making.

    How to have your say

    The Environment Agency will carefully consider all the relevant feedback received during the consultation, together with existing information. Our decision will be available on the public register by September 2025. 

    Our engagement with the community around the Hinkley site will continue through our own ‘Meet the Regulator’ meeting, the site stakeholder group and Hinkley C’s community forum.  

    The application and other supporting documents are available for you to view on Citizen Space. 

    The consultation starts on Tuesday 3 June 2025 and closes on Tuesday 1 July 2025. 

    Read about regulating Hinkley.

    Background

    • Hinkley Point B power station began generating power in 1976 using two Advanced Gas Cooled Reactors (AGR). During its lifetime it provided enough electricity to meet the need of every home in the UK for almost 3 years.
    • One of the reactors (Reactor 4) was declared Fuel Free in September 2024 and it is anticipated that the remaining reactor (Reactor 3) will be declared fuel free by the end of 2025.
    • Now the reactors are no longer operational and following defueling, certain radioisotopes are no longer produced. To reflect the current activities, EDF has applied to remove some radionuclide limits in its environmental permit.
    • The proposed changes to the environmental permit would more accurately reflect the reducing radiological hazard and risks from Hinkley Point B and align with the current lifecycle stage.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Former Victim’s Commissioner and Defence KC appointed to provide strong leadership to miscarriage of justice investigator

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Former Victim’s Commissioner and Defence KC appointed to provide strong leadership to miscarriage of justice investigator

    Dame Vera Baird DBE KC has been appointed as interim chair of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) to provide hands on governance and strong leadership.

    • Dame Vera Baird DBE KC appointed as interim chair of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC)
    • Urgent review ordered to restore public confidence in the organisation
    • Justice for the wrongfully convicted vital to Government’s Plan for Change

    Dame Vera Baird DBE KC has today (3 June) been appointed as the interim Chair of the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC).

    Her appointment marks the Lord Chancellors determination to ensure the CCRC is effectively delivering its vital function investigating potential miscarriages of justice and bringing justice to those who have been wrongly convicted.

    The Chair of the CCRC is responsible for leading the board, setting the vision and core purpose of the organisation,  maintaining public trust and confidence by being a visible, effective advocate and ambassador, and supporting their leadership. Dame Vera will provide hands on governance and strong leadership in the role.

    The Lord Chancellor has also tasked Dame Vera with undertaking an urgent review into the running of the CCRC, ensuring lessons have been learned from the handling of previous cases and that the public can have confidence in the organisation again.

    Lord Chancellor, Shabana Mahmood, said:

    Miscarriages of justice have a devastating and life-long impact.

    The organisation tasked with uncovering them must earn back the public’s trust in the justice system, vital to our Plan for Change.

    Dame Vera will bring strong leadership to the Criminal Cases Review Commission – I want her review to restore its role uncovering and rectifying historical injustices.

    Dame Vera has been tasked with reviewing the governance and leadership within the CCRC, and its capability in investigating potential miscarriages of justice. The impact of the organisation’s internal culture will be evaluated, as well as the value for money it delivers for the taxpayer.

    Dame Vera, as a former defender and Victims Commissioner, understands the criminal justice system from all sides and is a long-standing advocate for fairness and justice.

    Dame Vera Baird said:

    When the justice system makes mistakes, as all human institutions do, from time to time,  the role of the CCRC is crucial in uncovering them – providing the only lifeline available for the wrongfully convicted.

    It is vital the public can have confidence in an organisation whose constitutional importance is so central to a fair and just system.

    I look forward to working alongside the many hardworking and dedicated members of staff to restore that confidence, ensuring recommendations stemming from multiple reviews over the last decade are being effectively implemented, as well as identifying further areas for improvement.

    Dame Vera’s term will run from June 2025 to December 2026 ahead of a permanent appointment being made. In addition to delivering the review, the interim Chair is responsible for setting the direction of the CCRC and communicating progress with the Government – particularly in light of Chris Henley KC’s 2024 report which made major recommendations following the handling of Andrew Malkinson’s case.

    The review will include but not be limited to:

    • Effectiveness: The extent to which the organisation is operating effectively to deliver the CCRC’s statutory responsibilities, including the understanding and application of the ‘real possibility’ test, and the CCRC’s processes for oversight and quality control of casework.

    • Performance: To evaluate the CCRC’s performance, assess whether the appropriate Key Performance Indicators and targets are in place, and ensure effective strategies and action plans are in place and implemented to improve performance. Additionally, an assessment of the robustness of the management information provided by the CCRC to its departmental sponsor, ensuring it enables effective oversight and assurance on behalf of the Principal Accounting Officer and Ministers.
    • Governance: To evaluate the effectiveness of the organisation’s governance, including its structure and operational efficiency, and the effectiveness of the structural relationship between the Commissioners, the Body Corporate, the Board, and the Executive.
    • Culture: To review the culture of the organisation, in particular in its approach to and interactions with applicants, potential applicants and their representatives.
    • Capability: An evaluation of the senior leadership team should also be conducted to identify areas where further support or strengthening is needed, in order restore public confidence.
    • Funding: To assess whether the CCRC provides value for money within its current funding levels and ensure that the funds are used effectively to achieve high-quality outcomes. To rigorously evaluate whether the CCRC delivers value for money within its existing funding envelope, ensuring that it is utilised efficiently to achieve high-quality outcomes. This assessment will focus on maximising current resources.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Inspecting Homes Affected by March Storms

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    strong>AUSTIN – After Texas residents apply for FEMA assistance, a home inspection may be necessary to verify damage from the March 26-28 severe storms and flooding.
    Homeowners and renters in Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy counties can apply for FEMA assistance for losses not covered by insurance for the March storms.
    Within 10 days after applying, a FEMA inspector may contact applicants to schedule an appointment. The call or text to schedule an inspection will probably come from an out-of-state phone number.
    Information gathered during the inspection is one of several criteria used by FEMA to determine if applicants are approved for federal assistance. If survivors have already made repairs or replaced damaged items, although not required, it may be helpful to have pictures of the damage and receipts for repair or replacement. Applicants should also have their insurance policy available.
    The housing inspector will consider:

    The structural soundness of the home, both inside and outside.
    Whether the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer/septic systems are all in working order.
    Whether the home is safe to live in and can be entered and exited safely.

    All FEMA representatives carry photo identification. Inspectors will never ask for or accept money. Their service is free. 
    A home inspection may take up to 45 minutes to complete. After the inspection, applicants should allow seven to 10 days for processing. For questions about the status of an application, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
    For more information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4871. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – Incidents on Hawai’i Island Shed Light on Hawaiian Hawk Abuse, June 2, 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release – Incidents on Hawai’i Island Shed Light on Hawaiian Hawk Abuse, June 2, 2025

    Posted on Jun 2, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

    KA ‘OIHANA KUMUWAIWAI ‘ĀINA

     

    DAWN N.S. CHANG

    CHAIRPERSON

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

     

     

    INCIDENTS ON HAWAIʻI ISLAND SHED LIGHT ON HAWAIIAN HAWK ABUSE

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    June 2, 2025

    HILO, Hawaiʻi – Threats to Hawaiʻi’s endangered wildlife usually come in the form of habitat loss and degradation, disease, or predators. Recent incidents on Hawai‘i Island involving the ‘io, or Hawaiian hawk, shed light on another hazard:  human interactions. Last month, a Mountain View community member found an emaciated ‘io on her property. It was missing the upper portion of its beak. This was reported to the Hawai‘i Wildlife Center (HWC) which contacted the DLNR Divisions of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) and Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW).

    Raymond McGuire, a wildlife biologist with DOFAW, collected the ‘io and transferred it to the HWC. Examination of the hawk determined the injury wasn’t natural, but human caused. No longer able to feed itself, the bird had to be euthanized.

    HWC received a tip the previous week about a posting on Craigslist that offered a free hawk in Mountain View. Posted photos of that bird showed similar feather, eye and cere (lump above the beak) color to the hawk they admitted, though it still had its full beak. The post has since been deleted. It hasn’t been determined if the two incidents are related.

    “I just want to make people aware that these types of abuses are happening in our backyards and if community members see something, please say something,” said McGuire.

    In Hawaiʻi, endangered wildlife like the ‘io carry state protections. Hawai‘i Revised Statutes prohibit the “taking” of endangered or threatened species, which includes harming, killing, or otherwise disrupting them.

    McGuire added: “We’ve received several reports in recent years of shootings and other harmful misconduct aimed at Hawaiian hawks. We can all contribute to the protection of our native ʻio and stop the trend of abuse if we keep our eyes open and speak up.”

    To report suspected illegal activity, call the DLNR enforcement hotline at 808-643-3567 or use the DLNRTip app. For information on raptor rehabilitation and rescue, reach out to the HWC at 808-884-5000.

    # # # 

     

    RESOURCES 

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR) 

     

    Photographs – Hawaiian Hawk Incidents (May 2025):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/nvpbm391lja4o8mpfkwlr/ABKckPyvmYT_u9QPkaEyqN4?rlkey=4q7wnd1vxoxgdflfbi1zdntvx&st=712cw4mm&dl=0

     

    Hawai‘i Island DOFAW offices:

    Hilo office: 808-974-4221

    Kamuela office: 808-887-6063

     

    Hawai‘i Wildlife Center website: https://www.hawaiiwildlifecenter.org/

     

     

    Media Contact: 

    Ryan Aguilar

    Communications Specialist

    Department of Land and Natural Resources, State of Hawai‘i

    Phone: 808-587-0396

    Email: [email protected]

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eurojust supports successful operation against human traffickers

    Source: Eurojust

    The criminal group targeted individuals from disadvantaged communities in Romania. The perpetrators approached their victims on social media, luring them with false romantic promises or offers for them to perform sex work abroad under favourable conditions. Once the victims accepted these offers, they were taken abroad to provide sexual services on escort websites and in rented flats. They were kept under constant surveillance by the criminal group and subjected to appalling conditions, working long hours in degrading and unsafe circumstances. The victims were expected to work continuously, regardless of their mental or physical state. Even visibly pregnant women were forced to work without rest.

    Investigations into the group uncovered a large-scale network that had been operating across Europe for over seven years. In 2022, its members moved to Switzerland to continue their activities in several Swiss German-speaking cities, particularly Zurich. The suspected leader of the group started to recruit new members, setting up his own criminal school, where he taught techniques enslaving and exploiting victims. In some cases, victims were traded between members in exchange for money or used as stakes in gambling.

    A joint action day to dismantle the criminal group took place on 3 June. Authorities arrested 13 suspects in Romania and four in Switzerland. The alleged victims were brought to safety and given support from a counselling service specialising in human trafficking. In addition to targeting the members in Switzerland, the investigations also focused on individuals in Romania who provided logistical support and laundered the proceeds from the criminal activities.

    The successful operation was made possible through close cooperation between Romanian and Swiss authorities under the coordination of Eurojust and Europol. A joint investigation team, set up and funded by Eurojust, ensured the authorities could work together quickly and efficiently. Europol supported the national authorities throughout the investigation by facilitating the exchange of critical intelligence and providing expert analytical support, including the preparation of link charts on the organised crime group. On the action day, Europol provided remote assistance to investigators by cross-checking operational data in real time.

    The following authorities carried out the operation:

    • Romania: Prosecutor’s Office attached to the High Court of Cassation and Justice – Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism, Bacau Territorial Service; Police Brigade for Combating Organised Crime Iași, Police Service for Combating Organised Crime Neamț; Neamț and Bacău County Gendarmerie Inspectorates; Mobile Gendarmerie Unit Bacău.
    • Switzerland: Public Prosecutor’s Office of the canton of Zurich; Zurich City Police

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Moving heavy freight – new NPCC guidance published

    Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

    Abnormal loads guidance developed in collaboration with industry

    The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), in collaboration with the Abnormal Loads Group (ALG), has today released new national guidance to support police forces in the management of abnormal load movements across the UK. The new guidance marks a significant step forward in improving coordination, transparency, and efficiency for both law enforcement and the transport industry.

    This landmark document reflects extensive consultation with the transport and logistics sectors and is designed to ensure a safer and more predictable operating environment for the movement of abnormal loads, while also supporting the operational requirements of police forces.

    Key highlights of the new NPCC guidance include:

    • 30-Day Window Acceptance
    • Clarification on Embargoes
    • Targeted Embargo Approach
    • Police Escorts and Legal Authority
    Chief Superintendent Marc Clothier is part of the NPCC portfolio for Roads Policing. He said:

    “This new guidance is a testament to what can be achieved through close collaboration between law enforcement and industry. I’d like to thank all of our partners for their support and engagement which has enabled us to develop a practical document benefitting everyone. 

    “It brings greater clarity to both police forces and operators, reducing unnecessary administrative burdens and focusing resources where they are truly needed.”

    Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, said:

    “We’re delighted that the NPCC has listened and understand that this guidance is an economic enabler and we look forward to continuing to work with them collaboratively going forward.

    “We recognise that police have an incredibly challenging job to do and abnormal loads movements are a specialism. It’s only right that officers across all forces have the most up-to-date guidance that will help them support operators moving abnormal loads.

    “This will also give infrastructure project leaders and hauliers the certainty that they will have a consistent service from officers when they require their support.”

    The NPCC has agreed that the guidance will be subject of ongoing review and amendment, so it remains fit for purpose.

    A formal review will take place twelve months after publication. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Sanborn Expands Airborne Geophysics Fleet with Second Fixed-Wing Aircraft for Large-Scale Geophysical Surveys

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Sanborn Map Company, Inc. (Sanborn), a leading provider of remote sensing and geophysical survey solutions, has expanded its airborne capabilities with the addition of a second fixed-wing aircraft equipped specifically for large-scale geophysical data collection. This expansion enhances Sanborn’s capacity to deliver efficient, high-resolution subsurface insights across expansive project areas.

    The new aircraft is outfitted with advanced geophysical instrumentation, provided by Sanborn Geophysics ULC. It includes three high sensitivity magnetometers and a full spectrum radiometric system. This setup enables the detection of subtle magnetic and radiometric anomalies critical for geological mapping, mineral exploration, and environmental assessment.

    “The growing demand for large scale geophysical surveys justified more geophysics aircraft in our fleet,” said John Copple, CEO of Sanborn. “This investment enhances responsiveness and improves scheduling efficiency for our customers.”

    With this investment, Sanborn continues to build on its legacy of innovation in remote sensing and geophysical services — offering a scalable, aircraft-based solution for organizations seeking actionable data across vast and varied landscapes.

    For more information about Sanborn’s airborne geophysics capabilities, visit www.sanborn.com/sanborn-geophysics or contact info@sanborn.com.

    Company Information

    The Sanborn Map Company, Inc. (Sanborn) is a leading geospatial solutions provider with over 150 years of experience supporting public and private sector clients. Sanborn specializes in high-resolution nadir and oblique imagery, LiDAR, geophysics, and geospatial data and analytics. The company also provides scalable staff augmentation for transportation, utilities, infrastructure, and emergency management. Sanborn’s airborne platforms enable efficient, wide-area data collection. With a focus on innovation, quality, and security, Sanborn delivers precise, actionable intelligence that supports resilient, data-driven decisions across a wide range of industries and applications.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/75060327-0002-4724-98aa-e290217f55b9

    The MIL Network –