NewzIntel.com

Category: Vehicles

  • MIL-OSI China: Estudiantes, Palmeiras cruise in Libertadores

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

    Argentina’s Estudiantes scored three first-half goals en route to a 3-0 away victory over Universidad de Chile in their Copa Libertadores group stage clash on Wednesday.

    The visitors caught the home side napping when Thiago Palacios ran onto Guido Carrillo’s pass before drilling a left-footed shot into the bottom-right corner.

    Santiago Ascacibar doubled the lead just after the half hour with a towering header from 12 yards following a Gabriel Neves corner.

    Carrillo made it 3-0 by combining with Eric Meza and rounding goalkeeper Gabriel Castellon before slotting the ball into an empty net.

    Estudiantes now leads Group A with nine points from four games, two points clear of second-placed Universidad.

    Meanwhile, goals from Brazil international forwards Estevao and Vitor Roque fired Palmeiras to a 2-0 away win over Cerro Porteno.

    Teenager Estevao, who will join Chelsea in July, struck with a 25-yard drive just before halftime, and former Barcelona player Roque put the result beyond doubt with a cool 94th-minute finish on the counterattack.

    The Sao Paulo outfit heads Group G with 12 points, eight ahead of second-placed Cerro Porteno.

    In other fixtures on Wednesday, Nacional won 3-1 at Bahia, LDU Quito prevailed 3-2 at Deportivo Tachira, and Central Cordoba was held to a 1-1 home draw by Flamengo.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Cruzeiro still winless after Diaz stunner salvages draw

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

    A spectacular second-half strike from Lautaro Diaz earned Brazil’s Cruzeiro a 1-1 away draw with Ecuadorian side Mushuc Runa in the Copa Sudamericana group stage on Wednesday.

    Carlos Orejuela capitalized on chaotic defending as he poked home a shot from eight yards, before Diaz sent a brilliant volley from the edge of the 18-yard box past goalkeeper Cassio.

    Mushuc Runa now leads Group E with 10 points, one ahead of second-placed Palestino. Cruzeiro is last with just one point from four outings so far.

    In Venezuela, Junior Paredes scored twice as Puerto Cabello routed Brazil’s Vasco da Gama 4-1. Gerardo Padron and Raudy Guerrero were also on target for the hosts, while Joao Victor struck for the Rio de Janeiro outfit.

    In other fixtures on Wednesday, Atletico Grau was held to a goalless home draw by Gremio, Palestino won 2-1 at Union Santa Fe, and Universidad Catolica prevailed 3-1 at Cerro Largo.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Commissioner’s address at the ATAX International Conference

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Rob Heferen, Commissioner of Taxation
    Address at the UNSW 16th ATAX International Conference on Tax Administration
    Sydney, 8 April 2025
    (Check against delivery)

    Introduction

    Thank you for the introduction. 

    I’d like to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we meet, the Gadigal people, and pay respects to Elders past and present, and extend that to First Nations people present today. 

    I would also like to say thank you to Michael Walpole and Jennie Granger for inviting me to speak today. 

    It is indeed a privilege to be invited, and I hope I can get a recurring invite.

    The theme of this year’s ATAX conference is ‘Tax Administration: Getting it right’.  

    Before I get underway, some of my own housekeeping is important to note. Given the House of Representatives has been dissolved, we have a caretaker government, and so public servants, even we statutory officers, need to exercise appropriate discretion about what we say, and what we comment on.

    Which I will, of course, do.

    So, while I might be a little bland, I hope that doesn’t rule me out for the future.

    But returning to the topic at hand, what ought we mean by ‘getting tax administration right’. 

    Before I step through my perspective on this issue, which some of you will have heard before (I do apologise for that, but I think they are messages worth repeating) I’d like to reflect a bit on the crucial role tax has in the social contract – Australian style. 

    As the famous American Supreme Court Judge Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr said, ‘tax is the price we pay for a civilised society’.  

    I’d like to expand on that to posit that the tax we pay is a vital element of our social contract; the citizenry pay tax and in return the government provides the services the community, collectively, demands.  

    This notion recognises that as individuals there is little we can deliver on our own, but collectively our ‘contribution rules’ set out our obligations for how we can mutually contribute to fund things the country needs and the community demands.  

    Thomas Hobbes, one of the founders of modern political philosophy, had his memorable take on the social contract. Writing during the English civil war, he noted in the Leviathan that, without any ruler, our ‘state of nature’ would result in…

    such condition, there is no place for industry; because the fruit thereof is uncertain: and consequently no culture of the earth; no navigation, nor the use of commodities that may be imported by sea; no commodious buildings; no instruments of moving, and removing, such things as require much force; no knowledge of the face of the earth; no account of time; no arts; no letters; no society; and which is worst of all; continual fear, and danger of violent death; and the life of man, solitary, poor, nasty, brutish and short. 

    He may well have been over-influenced by England’s challenges at the time, but I think a moderated application can be seen to ring true today. Hence his view that to correct for this, society needs a strong powerful ruler – in Hobbes’ time, perhaps a sovereign, in our time and our place, a government. Perhaps not necessarily ‘strong and powerful’ as Hobbes’ may have imagined it, but definitely one with authority.

    Without a government, there will be little peace, prosperity or freedom.  

    And without tax, at least in the Australian context, very hard to imagine a government.  

    But digging a fraction deeper, does Australia’s tax system reflect Australia’s social contract and does the Australian Taxation Office’s (ATO’s) administration reflect this?  

    I think there’s a strong argument to be made that a country’s tax system, provided there are strong democratic foundations and processes, reflects its aspirations, its underpinnings and how the country has chosen its ‘rules of contribution’.

    The Australian tax system, or at least the policy to be implemented, has at least 2 elements:

    1. First, as a federation, do we have the right balance between taxes levied by the Commonwealth as compared to that by the states? 
    2. Second, do we have the right ‘tax mix’. That is, the right balance between direct taxes (such as income tax) and indirect taxes (such as the GST and excise)? 

    Of course, both of these are core policy questions not appropriate for me to comment on.

    But then the question of whether we get the tax administration right can be assessed by whether, given the first 2 elements, do we have the right administrative machinery and people in place to deliver the desired revenue for the government to deliver the services the community demands – that is, to deliver on the social contract? 

    The ‘right’ administration of taxes 

    The ATO is governed by legislation, passed by those who represent the broader community.  

    Much responsibility is vested in the Commissioner, and the parliament has provided me with significant authority, but has carefully constrained the Commissioner’s discretion to depart from the job at hand.

    To deliver on our purpose, successive governments have ensured we are appropriately resourced, with both technology and people, and from this resourcing expect us to deliver on our role.

    So what’s our role?

    To collect the right amount of tax, in accordance with the law, in the most efficient way for the government and the taxpayer. And in doing this, treat taxpayers with courtesy and respect.

    The law, of course, changes over time, both through explicit parliamentary action, and also through the court’s interpretation of the ‘hard cases’ that come before it.  

    The administrator then needs to ensure that their administration of the law is kept contemporary and is seen as fair and reasonable. 

    Does the ATO meet these benchmarks? 

    As I hope you would expect, we strive to, but of course, given none of us are perfect, in specific instances we may well fall short. 

    So, what are some useful metrics we can look to, to assess whether we are getting our administration right? That demonstrate we are meeting our Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (the ‘bible’ that governs the way we in the APS act) requirements to be effective, efficient, economical and ethical?

    Let’s start with the most important one – are we effective at our job?

    Our purpose, or the reason we exist, is clear: We collect tax so that government can deliver services for the Australian community.

    Being the nation’s principal tax collector is not always an easy job, but it’s an important one. One that’s fundamental to Australia’s strong economy and society.  

    Without the ATO doing its role, the rest of the government suffers (both Commonwealth and state), and accordingly, as does our broader society. 

    The ATO makes up a bit under 10% of the APS, but the more than 190,000 other federal public servants rely on us to do our job, so they can do theirs, that is so that the government has the money it needs to provide the services the community demands.  

    And given Australia’s vertical fiscal imbalance, a significant proportion of revenue the states and territories use to fund their public services is collected by us as well. 

    If our purpose is our guiding light, then our roadmap is our vision as an agency.

    Our vision is an Australia where every taxpayer meets their obligations because:

    • complying is easy
    • help is tailored
    • deliberate non-compliance has consequences.

    We are confident that where these conditions are met, voluntary compliance will be optimised.

    But our purpose drives what we do, day in and day out. It reinforces that our role is fundamental to making government work. At the end of the day, being that part of the government that collects tax revenue, so that other parts of government can deliver services for citizens, is our most fundamental function.

    We definitely collect a lot of tax – in this year’s budget papersExternal Link our Treasury colleagues estimate that we will collect $676.1 billion in the current financial year.

    But how does that compare with what we should collect?

    It’s tricky to get a firm handle on this, but our best estimates stem from our ATO Tax Gap measurement.

    Tax gap

    The tax gap is an estimate of the difference between the estimate of what we expect to collect, and what would have been collected if every taxpayer was fully compliant with the law.

    For the most recent tax gap data available, 2021–22, we estimate that we will collect $545.8 billion of the total $590.3 billion tax due.

    That is, the amount of tax not collected, the net tax gap, is $44.5 billion, or 7.5% of the total amount of the tax.

    The $545.8 billion, the amount we have or will collect, is made up of 2 parts:

    • $531.4 billion that is reported correctly when taxpayers lodge their tax statements, and
    • $14.3 billion which represents any difference between that first return and the final corrected return.

    So, the $14.3 billion collected following a revised tax return is influenced by ATO action – typically our post lodgment compliance action like reviews and audits.

    In the context of the performance of our tax system, the tax gap data indicates that we have 90.1% voluntary performance. This adjusts to 92.5% when we factor in our compliance action.

    Tax gap components

    But not all taxes are created equal, and the overall gap is made up of varying gaps or components across different taxation types. Based on the most recent verified data:

    • The gap for personal income taxes (both salary and business income) account for $25.8 billion of the $44.5 billion tax gap.
    • Given the size of the population for collections, it’s not surprising that this is the biggest. This group has a net tax gap of 8.5%.
    • Company income taxes (large, medium and small companies) account for $8.7 billion of the $44.5 billion tax gap. This group has a net tax gap of 6.3%.
    • GST – $4.4 billion and a net gap of 5.5%.
    • Excise and all other gaps – $5.6 billion or a net tax gap of 8.1%.

    Comparisons to other jurisdictions

    So how does this compare to other countries?

    This is a tricky question to answer mainly because of the countries who attempt to calculate their tax gap, each have their own unique features of measurement. The variation between jurisdictions means we can find ourselves comparing apples to oranges in many cases.

    But if we look at the trends in our respective data, perhaps there is something to glean.

    In Australia, since 2016–17, the net gap has decreased from 7.8% to 7.5%. Over the same period, the UK’s net gap decreased from 5.4% to 5.2% (noting the parameters of their gap calculations vary slightly from Australia’s).

    In both instances, the overall net gap decreased. And it’s important to remember, that this represents an estimate of what we are not collecting and what is not being reported. Being an estimate, they are often revised over time as more information becomes available.

    Suffice to say, in our international engagement, we are confident that our methodology is good practice, and our measured gaps are amongst the smallest.

    So, I think we are quite effective.

    Administrative performance

    Then, do we do this in the most efficient way for the government and the taxpayer?

    Our costs of collection are, in the main, very low. For the 2023–24 year the cost to collect $100 of tax was 56 cents.

    Unfortunately, good, robust information on compliance costs for all taxpayers is not collected and produced.

    Do we treat taxpayers with courtesy and respect?

    Our Charter outlines our commitments to the community in their interactions with us and includes a number of stated commitments around the behaviours expected from ATO officers when they engage with the community.

    We have a range of metrics that provide valuable insights into how this is working in practice:

    • For service commitments: The ATO has 12 publicly stated service commitments that are reported every month on the ATO website. The last published results were for March 2025, and show all 12 were met.
    • Highlights included that
      • 97% of electronic taxpayer requests were finalised in 15 days, against a target of 90%
      • 99% of electronic tax returns and activity statements were finalised in 12 business days, against a target of 94%, and
      • 100% of employee referrals for unpaid super were escalated with employers within 28 days, against a target of 90%.
    • Regarding complaints, they continue to represent a very small portion of our interactions with taxpayers, around 0.1%.
      • Our service commitment is that we will resolve 85% of complaints within 15 days or within a date negotiated with the taxpayer. And, pleasingly, our March 2025 (YTD) result showed we have finalised 99% of complaints within our service commitment.

    To further ensure confidence in our administration, the ATO is fortunate to have fairly comprehensive scrutiny from a broad set of scrutineers.

    Like any Commonwealth government funded agency or department we are subject to the thrice-yearly scrutiny on our appropriation by the relevant senate legislation committee – commonly known as our Senate Estimates process.

    Again, like any other similarly funded agency we are subject to both financial audits and performance audits by the Australian National Audit Office.

    And we have our own dedicated scrutineer – the Tax Ombudsman, Ruth Owen, who is speaking this afternoon.

    Each of these processes provide us food for thought and often specific recommendations to improve our administration to which we attempt to respond to in a timely way.

    A further step this year was the Australian Public Service Commission initiating a capability reviewExternal Link to seek some external assurance that we are well placed for the future. And it showed that we are.

    Importantly, and as far as I am aware – all of our scrutineers are broadly happy that we are collecting the right amount of tax.

    But often the biggest critics of an organisation sit within it.

    And one of our shortcomings brought to my attention by my staff early on was the size of the debt book.

    The broader debt book – that is, stock of the tax debt that is owed to the Commonwealth Government at the current point in time – is currently over $105 billion (compared to the 2024-25 total revenue of around $650 billion). It’s the largest it’s ever been, and it is money that could be benefitting all Australians.  

    We estimate that just under half of that $105.1 billion is made up of collectable debt. That $46.4 billion is almost double the $26.5 billion of collectable debt owed in 2019. 

    I’ll have more to say on this shortly.

    Our vision

    We have recently spent time on sharpening our focus for the future by committing to a very clear vision for tax administration.

    Our vision is an Australia where every taxpayer meets their obligations because:

    • complying is easy
    • help is tailored
    • deliberate non-compliance has consequences. 

    I think there’s value in stepping this through in more detail today.

    Firstly, every taxpayer meets their obligations because complying is easy.

    • As an administrator, part of our role is to take the complexity of the system and do what we can to make it as easy to use as we can. That is, be a ‘complexity broker’.
    • In all aspects of life we need complexity brokers. Some of us know how to fix our cars and are happy to rely on our own expertise. Others are content to know how to put in the petrol and steer the wheel and are happy to rely on those with the expertise.
    • The ATO’s role as a complexity broker is complemented by the role of the tax profession in our system – those who help Australians to meet and understand their tax obligations.
    • Focusing on the tax profession, strengthening that relationship continues to be one of our core priorities.
    • It is vital that we work closely with the tax profession to ensure they are properly equipped to be complexity brokers for their clients.

    Secondly, every taxpayer meets their obligations because help is tailored.

    • While it’s important that all taxpayers have a clear digital pathway to resolve their interactions with the ATO, there will always be members of the community who need direct assistance from an ATO officer. While digital systems can enable a fast and seamless experience in some instances, it cannot be a substitute for human judgment.
    • Only human intervention can determine what constitutes fairness and reasonableness in those taxpayer circumstances where complex communication, compassion or empathy are needed to make decisions with the taxpayer.
    • We are currently developing our Future Interactions Strategy, which will further refine the how and when of our tailored approaches.
    • And within this strategy, our objectives will be laid out
      • to provide unassisted digital options to resolve tax matters where possible
      • to provide efficient human-assisted channels to assist in resolving more complex matters, or where the circumstances of the taxpayer require it
      • to provide secure, integrated digital platforms.
    • Alongside this is our focus on helping those experiencing vulnerability to meet their obligations.
    • To support this, the ATO is implementing a Vulnerability Capability that will strengthen and coordinate the way the ATO supports those who need it most. And in doing this we are grateful to the Tax Ombudsman for her recent reportExternal Link on this issue, particularly regarding financial abuse.
    • This program of work will include the development of a framework, together with specific actions and activities to support people experiencing vulnerability, including financial abuse.

    And finally, every taxpayer meets their obligations because deliberate non-compliance has consequences.

    • In the tax system, we think about non-compliance against a wide set of obligations, including failure to lodge, false registration and deliberate incorrect reporting. And of course, it also considers not paying the appropriate amount of tax.
    • While all tax owed to the government is a priority – from individuals, and from small and large business – we are conscious of our duty to collect priority debt such as unpaid superannuation guarantee, PAYGW – that is, tax that is withheld from employees’ pay but not passed on to the government – and GST that is collected from customers but not passed on to the government, and from the small group of taxpayers who exhibit the most non-compliant behaviour in avoiding their obligations.
    • It is important to note that only 22,000 taxpayers are responsible for $11 billion of the total tax collectable debt value. In context, that’s about 1% of the total debtors responsible for 20% of what’s owed.
    • To be clear, I’m not talking about just the largest taxpayers – this 1% are taxpayers of varying sizes. And it is this group where our focus lies.
    • This approach we are taking to collect the tax owed to the government is deliberate and targeted, with action being taken for those who repeatedly refuse to engage with us and continue to ignore our reminders.
    • For these taxpayers, we are moving more urgently to deploy the full powers available to us and we are beginning to see some positive impacts of this work, through reduction in the amount of debt owed to the government.

    Conclusion

    So, are we getting tax administration right? We, of course, have a few critics.

    But we all need to keep reminding ourselves that the tax system is not an end in itself; it’s only ever an instrument for the government to get the money it needs to deliver the services the community desires.

    Many of us, both internally and externally, can get caught up in the intricacies of various seemingly contradictory tax policies, the finer points of a court outcome, and the time it takes for us to finalise a complex ruling. Missing the reality of our tax system’s overall performance.

    But total taxes largely meet society’s spending demands. Our tax gap is low and our service commitments largely met.

    So, the conditions of tax administration doing its bit to deliver on our social contract are largely, or mainly, met.

    Is our tax administration perfect? Of course not.

    Is it about right? I am obviously biased, but I would say definitely.

    Can we improve? Of course.

    We’ve got work to do to achieve this. But that’s our aim.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ Māori Council, PSNA appeal for urgent action over Gaza starvation

    Asia Pacific Report

    The New Zealand Māori Council and Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa made a high profile appeal to Foreign Minister Winston Peters over Gaza today, calling for urgent action over humanitarian supplies for the besieged Palestinian enclave.

    “Starving a civilian population is a clear breach of international humanitarian law and a war crime under the Rome Statute to the International Criminal Court,” said the open letter published by the two organisations as full page advertisements in three leading daily newspapers.

    Noting that New Zealand has not joined the International Court of Justice for standing up to “condemn the use of starvation as a weapon of war”, the groups still called on the government to use its “internationally respected voice” to express solidarity for humanitarian aid.

    The plea comes amid Israel’s increased attacks on Gaza which have killed at least 61 people since dawn, targeting civilians in crowded places and a Gaza City market.

    The more than two-month blockade by the the enclave by Israel has caused acute food shortages, accelerating the starvation of the Palestinian population.

    Israel has blocked all aid into Gaza — food, water, fuel and medical supplies — while more than 3000 trucks laden with supplies are stranded on the Egyptian border blocked from entry into Gaza.

    At least 57 Palestinians have starved to death in Gaza as a result of Israel’s punishing blockade. The overall death toll, revised in view of bodies buried under the rubble, stands at 62,614 Palestinians and 1139 people killed in Israel.

    The open letter, publlshed by three Stuff-owned titles — Waikato Times in Hamilton, The Post in the capital Wellington, and The Press in Christchurch, said:

    Rt Hon Winston Peters
    Minister of Foreign Affairs
    Winston.Peters@parliament.govt.nz

    Open letter requesting government action on the future of Gaza

    Kia ora Mr Peters,

    The situation in Occupied Gaza has reached another crisis point.

    We urge our country to speak out and join other nations demanding humanitarian supplies into Gaza.

    For more than two months, Israel has blocked all aid into Gaza — food, water, fuel and medical supplies. The World Food Programme says food stocks in Gaza are fully depleted. UNICEF says children face “growing risk of starvation, illness and death”. The International Committee of the Red Cross says “the humanitarian response in Gaza is on the verge of total collapse”.

    Meanwhile, 3000 trucks laden with desperately needed aid are lined up at the Occupied Gaza border. Israeli occupation forces are refusing to allow them in.

    Starving a civilian population is a clear breach of International Humanitarian Law and a War Crime under the Rome Statute to the International Criminal Court.

    At the International Court of Justice many countries have stood up to condemn the use of starvation as a weapon of war and to demand accountability for Israel to end its industrial-scale killing of Palestinians in Gaza.

    New Zealand has not joined that group. Our government has been silent to date.

    After 18 months facing what the International Court of Justice has described as a “plausible genocide”, it is grievous that New Zealand does not speak out and act clearly against this ongoing humanitarian outrage.

    Minister Peters, as Minister of Foreign Affairs you are in a position of leadership to carry New Zealand’s collective voice in support of humanitarian aid to Gaza to the world. We are asking you to speak on behalf of New Zealand to support the urgent international plea for humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza and to initiate calls for a no-fly zone to be established over the region to prevent further mass killing of civilians.

    We believe the way forward for peace and security for everyone in the region is for all parties to follow international law and United Nations resolutions, going back to UNGA 194 in 1948, so that a lasting peace can be established based on justice and equal rights for everyone.

    New Zealand has an internationally respected voice — please use it to express solidarity for humanitarian aid to Gaza, today.

    Nā

    Ann Kendall QSM, Co-chair
    Tā Taihākurei Durie, Pou [cultural leader]
    NZ Māori Council

    Maher Nazzal and John Minto, National Co-chairs
    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA)

    The NZ Māori Council and Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa advertisement in New Zealand media today. Image: PSNA

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: NXP Unveils Third-Generation Imaging Radar Processors for Level 2+ to 4 Autonomous Driving

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • S32R47 family are NXP’s highest performing radar processors, addressing the demanding requirements of Level 2+ to 4 autonomous driving
    • Higher resolution sensing enables advanced use cases like detection of vulnerable road users (VRUs) and lost cargo
    • More compute capability allows OEMs to develop advanced applications like navigation on autopilot while meeting the demands of tomorrow’s software-defined vehicles (SDVs) at scale

    EINDHOVEN, The Netherlands, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NXP Semiconductors N.V. (NASDAQ: NXPI) today unveiled its new S32R47 imaging radar processors in 16 nm FinFET technology, building on NXP’s proven expertise in the imaging radar space. The third generation of imaging radar processors delivers up to twice the processing power versus the previous generation, alongside improved system cost and power efficiency. In combination with NXP’s mmWave radar transceivers, power management and in-vehicle networking solutions, the S32R47 family meets functional safety ASIL ISO 26262 ASIL B(D) requirements and prepares the automotive industry for new levels of autonomous driving.

    According to Yole Intelligence’s Status of the Radar Industry 2024 report, by 2029, approximately 40% of vehicles entering the road will be passenger cars with driving automation Level 2+(L2+)/ Level 3 (L3) as well as an increasing number of vehicles with Level 4 (L4). To serve the fast-growing autonomous driving market for SDVs, automotive OEMs and tier 1 suppliers need to improve radar performance as it is essential for safe, advanced autonomy features such as piloted driving or fully automated parking.

    “The S32R47 can efficiently process three times, or more, antenna channels in real time than today’s production solutions. It enables improved imaging radar resolution, sensitivity and dynamic range – required by demanding autonomous driving use cases – while still meeting the stringent power and system cost targets set by OEMs for volume production,” said Meindert van den Beld, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Radar & ADAS.

    Imaging radar leverages richer point cloud data for more detailed modeling of the environment. This is a key enabler for AI based perception systems which allow for assisted and autonomous driving in the most challenging environmental conditions, such as complex urban scenarios.

    The S32R47 integrates a high-performance multi-core radar processing system, allowing denser point cloud output and enhanced algorithms that enable next-generation ADAS systems. This results in better separability of objects, improved detection reliability and more accurate classification of objects such as vulnerable road users or lost cargo.

    NXP’s 3rdgeneration imaging radar solutions

    • Built on know-how and the proven technology of two previous generations​, the new solution delivers up to 2x processing performance in the radar MPU in a 38% smaller IC footprint. It also includes AI/ML support for features like enhanced Direction of Arrival (DoA) processing and object classification
    • NXP’s next generation imaging radar solutions enable new imaging radars with optimized bill of material and increased scalability in terms of antenna channels and processing capability
    • NXP’s solution achieves comparable or better performance with up to 89% less antenna channels than alternative solutions, solving integration challenges with reduced system cost, size and power consumption

    To learn more, visit S32R47 Imaging Radar Processors.

    NXP’s radar portfolio

    Already sampling to lead customers and targeting next-generation OEM platforms, NXP’s new S32R47 radar processing solution builds upon a comprehensive, scalable portfolio of radar sensing solutions, tailored to cover car OEMs’ ever-diversifying use cases and architectures, from corner radar to high-resolution 4D imaging radar. The S32R platform offers a common architecture for software reuse and speedy development along with a high-performance hardware security engine, OTA update support and compliance with the newest cybersecurity standards.

    About NXP Semiconductors
    NXP Semiconductors N.V. (NASDAQ: NXPI) is the trusted partner for innovative solutions in the automotive, industrial & IoT, mobile, and communications infrastructure markets. NXP’s “Brighter Together” approach combines leading-edge technology with pioneering people to develop system solutions that make the connected world better, safer, and more secure. The company has operations in more than 30 countries and posted revenue of $12.61 billion in 2024. Find out more at www.nxp.com.

    NXP and the NXP logo are trademarks of NXP B.V. All other product or service names are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved. © 2025 NXP B.V

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d29518f1-82f5-437b-9bd0-dbb01d76b303

    For more information, please contact:

    NXP-Corp
    NXP-Auto

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI China: 31 civilians killed, 57 injured in Indian attack, border clash with Pakistan: Official

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

    Thirty-one people were killed and 57 others injured in an Indian attack on Pakistani territory and subsequent exchange of fire between Pakistani and Indian troops along the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border that divides the disputed region of Kashmir, a spokesperson for the Pakistani army’s media wing said on Wednesday.

    India carried out large-scale “ceasefire violations” in border areas throughout the day on Wednesday, following attacks on houses and mosques that targeted civilians in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir and the eastern Punjab province during Tuesday night and the early hours of Wednesday morning, Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, told the media during a briefing.

    He stated that Pakistan responded effectively by targeting an Indian brigade headquarters, a battalion headquarters, and multiple military posts across the LoC in the Kashmir region, and along the working boundary between Pakistan’s Punjab and India-controlled Kashmir during the day-long exchange of fire.

    The ISPR chief said that Indian jet fighters struck six locations within Pakistani territory, but the Pakistani Air Force responded by shooting down five Indian fighter jets with precision.

    In addition, the Pakistani army shot down seven Indian spy and combat drones and captured two more using advanced technology, he added.

    “We were well-prepared. Pakistan did not suffer any combat casualties during the exchange of fire, and the Air Force did not lose any aircraft or assets in the strikes,” he said.

    India had accused Pakistan of hosting terrorist camps, but after Pakistan invited both local and foreign media to inspect the alleged sites, India launched a surprise night-time attack on those locations, he added.

    Pakistan reserves the right to respond in self-defense at a time of its choosing, he said, adding that the country’s commitment to peace should not be mistaken for weakness.

    While Pakistan seeks regional stability, it will not hesitate to act decisively if provoked, Chaudhry said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s 12th batch of aid supplies handed over to quake-hit Myanmar

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

    The 12th batch of emergency humanitarian in-kind assistance dispatched by the Chinese government was handed over to Myanmar on Thursday in Yangon, Myanmar.

    The aid supplies included 17,000 tons of gasoline, which were accepted by Yangon Region Chief Minister U Soe Thein.

    A 7.9-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on March 28. As of May 7, the earthquake has claimed around 3,800 lives and injured over 5,100 people, with around 100 others remaining unaccounted for, according to Myanmar’s official data.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Criminal ‘largest buyers’ of gold bullion stripped of $8.7 million

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Two Sydney-based leaders of an Australian criminal syndicate have been stripped of more than $8.7 million in assets for their roles in an elaborate gold bullion GST fraud. 

    Orders made by the Supreme Court of New South Wales resulted in those assets being forfeited to the Commonwealth.

    It followed a complex, decade-long AFP-led Criminal Assets Confiscation Taskforce (CACT) investigation, codenamed Operation Nosean. The CACT brings together the resources and expertise of the AFP, Australian Border Force (ABF), Australian Taxation Office (ATO), Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) and AUSTRAC.

    The CACT investigation began in 2012 after intelligence highlighted the apparent purchase of notably high quantities of pure gold bullion – known as PAMP gold – from a broker in Sydney. This intelligence suggested the gold was being used for large-scale GST fraud.

    At the same time, the ATO advised the CACT they had identified an unusual pattern of large GST refunds being paid to several gold refiners in Sydney and Melbourne.

    Both the CACT and ATO continued their investigations in parallel. 

    What subsequently emerged was the picture of an incredibly complex criminal operation that fit the definition of ‘missing trader fraud’. This involves the fictitious transaction of traded goods between companies within a chain to evade tax obligations.

    In this case, the backdrop for the offending was Australia’s then gold bullion arrangements, which provided an exemption on the payment of GST for ‘investment-grade’ gold bullion – as distinct from ‘scrap’ gold, which was subject to GST.

    Here’s a simplified description of how it worked:

    1. The criminal syndicate used the identities of foreign students and associates as mules to buy gold bullion from a broker, GST-free. In reality, the syndicate was making the purchases. 
    2. Each time the gold was purchased, it was melted down or defaced by the syndicate and refashioned into ‘scrap gold’. 
    3. Shell companies controlled by the syndicate then ‘purchased’ the ‘scrap’ gold, masquerading as legitimate buyers that supposedly paid tax on the gold.
    4. Those shell companies then on-sold the gold to a gold dealer, adding 10 per cent GST, with the syndicate claiming GST input credits. 
    5. Once this cycle was complete, it restarted.

    In total, the criminal syndicate was found to have fraudulently claimed tax refunds between 2012-2013, before the CACT investigation led to the restraint of their assets.

    In February 2025, after forensically piecing together the full story of the fraud’s operation and financials as well as the outcome of the ATO’s investigation, the AFP-led CACT obtained court orders which resulted in the assets of the two Sydney-based syndicate members being forfeited to the Commonwealth.

    The items included:

    • Four luxury Sydney homes worth almost $7 million
    • Four bank accounts containing more than $2 million
    • Five ounces of gold worth about $23,000, and 
    • Almost $250,000 in cash. 

    This followed the jailing in December, 2023, of the two Sydney-based syndicate members – a Neutral Bay man, 49, and an Ashfield man, 57. They were both sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment, with a non-parole period of four years and six months, after being found guilty of two counts each of conspiring to dishonestly cause a loss to the Commonwealth, contrary to section 135.4(3) of the Criminal Code (Cth) (Tax Fraud Offending).

    Speaking to the forfeiture of the assets, head of the CACT, National Manager Criminal Assets Confiscation Stefan Jerga said it was a direct result of law enforcement cooperation and the tenacity of investigators.

    “The nature of this crime was extremely intricate and took a significant amount of effort, time and commitment to untangle the web and identify the complex ownership structures set up to hide the true beneficiaries and wealth of these criminals,” National Manager Jerga said.

    “With the persistent work of all involved including the ATO, all partner agencies and the CACT’s forensic accountants, lawyers, financial experts and investigators, we were able to deconstruct and dismantle this illegal operation.

    “Our message to criminals is clear – no matter how complex or elaborate your systems or network, the AFP and its law enforcement partners will work to no end and no set time limit to find you, bring you before the courts and confiscate any proceeds of crime.”

    ATO Deputy Commissioner John Ford welcomed the result from the CACT investigation.

    “This result shows that the consequences do not end at the conviction and should serve as a strong deterrent to those in the community considering similar behaviour,” Mr Ford said.

    “The ATO will continue to work with, and support, our partner agencies by sharing resources and capabilities to ensure those who break the law are held to account.”

    In 2017, an amendment was introduced to the Goods and Services Tax Act 1999 (Cth), which shut down the loophole on the ability to claim GST input tax credits on second-hand precious metals.*

    The AFP-led CACT, which brings together the resources and expertise of the AFP, Australian Border Force, Australian Taxation Office, Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission and AUSTRAC, was permanently established in 2012 as a proactive and innovative approach to trace, restrain and ultimately confiscate criminal assets.

    The highly skilled members of CACT are located Australia-wide and comprise police, financial investigators, forensic accountants, litigation lawyers and partner agency specialists.

    The Commonwealth’s proceeds of crime laws provide tools for the restraint and forfeiture of proceeds and instruments of crime, as well as financial penalty and unexplained wealth orders. While the CACT litigates matters in the courts, restrained assets are managed on behalf of the Commonwealth by the Australian Financial Security Authority (AFSA). 

    At the conclusion of successful legal proceedings, confiscated assets are then liquidated by AFSA, with the proceeds placed in the Commonwealth Confiscated Assets Account (CAA). These funds can then be distributed by the Attorney-General to benefit the community through crime prevention, intervention or diversion programs relating to the illegal use of drugs or other law enforcement initiatives across Australia.

    Since July 2019, CACT has restrained more than $1.2 billion in criminal assets, including houses, cars, yachts, cryptocurrency, fine art and luxury goods. 

    *Background

    When the New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999 was enacted, it provided an exemption on the payment of Goods and Services Tax (GST) applicable to ‘investment-grade’ gold bullion (gold that had been stamped into bars and coins) on the basis it was considered a form of currency.

    Investment-grade gold bullion was made distinct from ‘scrap’ gold or gold that had changed its form by either being damaged, melted down or because it came in the form of jewellery, which was subject to GST.

    This distinction created a loophole which was exploited by criminals who would purchase GST-free bullion and change its form into scrap gold. They would then sell it to precious metals dealers and jewellers, adding 10 per cent GST. Instead of remitting the GST owed to the ATO from the sale of the scrap gold, offenders would claim input tax credit (ITC) exemptions applicable to the sale of second-hand goods and keep the profit.

    In 2017, an amendment to the Goods and Services Tax Act 1999 (Cth) was introduced to ensure entities engaged in transforming the form of a precious metal they acquire, can no longer exploit the special GST treatment on second-hand goods by claiming net input tax credits.

    CDPP case report *External Link

    Images

    Images available via HightailExternal Link 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Saddle Road closed following crash

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Saddle Road between Ashurst and Woodville is closed due to a serious two vehicle collision.

    Emergency services received reports of the crash at 5:20pm, in which one person is believed to be critically injured.

    Motorists are advised to avoid travel if possible as the only diversion is through the Pahiatua Track.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police acknowledge sentencing of fatal crash driver

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Please attribute to Senior Sergeant Fane Troy, Taupo Area Road Policing Manager:

    Police acknowledge the sentence handed down to Wookeun Kim in the Auckland District Court yesterday.

    Mr Kim was the driver of a vehicle involved in a fatal crash at Mangakino on 21 April which killed one person and seriously injured another.

    He was disqualified from driving for 15 months and ordered to pay $10,000 in reparations to the surviving victim, who remains in hospital.

    Police are glad that this matter was able to be resolved in a timely fashion. 

    These crashes are traumatic for all people involved.

    We would like to thank all those people who were involved in attending to the injured people at the crash scene – your efforts do not go unnoticed.

    Members of the public who call police around poor driving are to be commended. If you see dangerous driving or driving that causes concern please ring 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 15 killed, over 50 wounded in India, Pakistan Kashmir clashes

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

    Indian paramilitary troopers inquire a motorcyclist at a checkpoint on the outskirts of Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir, May 7, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    At least 15 civilians were killed and over 50 others wounded Wednesday in clashes between Indian and Pakistani troops across the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir, local media reported.

    The clashes started shortly after the Indian military carried out airstrikes inside Pakistan and the Pakistan-controlled Kashmir during the early hours on Wednesday.

    According to state-run broadcaster All India Radio (AIR), 15 civilians were killed after Pakistani troops initiated artillery firing in frontier districts.

    Officials said all the deaths were reported from the worst-hit Poonch district, 185 km southwest of Srinagar city in Indian-controlled Kashmir. Forty people were also wounded and dozens of houses and vehicles were damaged.

    Apart from this, 10 people, including five minor children, were wounded in cross-border shelling in the Uri sector of Baramulla district, while three others were wounded in Rajouri district.

    Indian army officials said they were effectively responding to the shelling and firing from the Pakistani side.

    Wednesday marks the 13th straight day of ceasefire violations on the LoC, according to the Indian side.

    The Pakistani army said that 26 people, including women and children, were killed and 46 others injured when India attacked civilian settlements in six areas of Pakistan on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. In a retaliatory move, Pakistan Air Force shot down five Indian fighter jets, said an army official.

    Indian media reported that three unidentified aircraft, two in Indian-controlled Kashmir and one in Punjab, were found crashed. So far, there are no official comments on the crashes.

    Reports said over 200 flights were cancelled and 25 airports temporarily shut down across northern and western India on Wednesday due to the prevailing situation.

    Meanwhile, mock drill exercises were conducted in several parts of India to evaluate civil defence preparedness. This was the first nationwide exercise at such a scale in the past several decades, according to media reports.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 79 Internal Auditing Best Practices

    Source: US Government research organizations

    You will need a government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport or driver’s license) when you check into the Visitors Center at the entrance of NIST and if bringing a vehicle onto the NIST campus, a vehicle registration card.

    PLEASE NOTE: Effective July 21, 2014, under the REAL ID Act of 2005 (https://www.dhs.gov/real-id/real-id-frequently-asked-questions), agencies, including NIST, can only accept a state-issued driver’s license or identification card for access to federal facilities if issued by states that are REAL ID compliant or have an extension. NIST currently accepts other forms of federally issued identification in lieu of a state-issued driver’s license, such as a valid passport, passport card, DOD’s Common Access Card (CAC), Veterans ID, Federal Agency HSPD-12 IDs, Military Dependents ID, Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC), and TSA Trusted Traveler ID. See Visitor Information for the latest information.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Low-altitude tourism takes off on China’s tropical island

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

    A tourist enjoys paragliding in Lingshui Li Autonomous County, south China’s Hainan Province, May 3, 2025.  (Xinhua/Guo Cheng)

    A helicopter was slowly ascending, offering a breathtaking view of the vast blue ocean below and the stunning tropical coastal city of Sanya in south China’s Hainan.

    Sat in the cabin of the helicopter was He Jixu, a tourist from southwest China’s Sichuan Province. It was the first time he had enjoyed a helicopter ride over the resort city, an unforgettable highlight of his trip.

    “Seeing the ocean from the sky is an entirely different experience. The view is incredibly expansive, the scenery is more breathtaking, and it feels so unique,” he said.

    For tourists, the charm of the island now extends beyond its signature sea and beaches. From helicopter tours and paragliding, to skydiving and hot air balloon rides, a thrilling array of aerial adventures has enriched tourists’ experiences.

    At Sanya Tarhe skydiving base, the largest of its kind in Hainan, the lobby bustled with visitors from across the country. Some awaited their turn with eager anticipation, while others returned excitedly after their skydiving.

    “The moment I jumped out, my heart raced. But when calm returned, I enjoyed the sight of the glittering sea and the endless blue sky, and felt completely at peace,” said Wang Xiaoling, a tourist from north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. For Wang, skydiving is not just a thrilling adventure, but also a gateway to a whole new world.

    “I love exploring different places and having diverse experiences. This skydiving attempt is also about challenging myself to become braver,” she added. 

    Zhang Enming, general manager of Sanya Tarhe Skydiving Club, said the base offered several skydiving packages, with prices ranging from 3,999 yuan (about 550 U.S. dollars) for fixed-wing aircraft to 6,999 yuan and 8,699 yuan for helicopter-based experiences.

    During the May Day holiday, the number of skydiving bookings surged, with daily traffic increasing by about 70 percent compared to usual.

    Low-altitude tourism, a burgeoning sector, offers a unique perspective and experience for tourists, and is especially appealing to young people, said Zhang. The base served over 10,000 customers last year, and the number in the first quarter of this year has reached 6,000.

    As China’s only tropical island province, Hainan enjoys a significant advantage in developing low-altitude tourism, with over 300 days of flyable weather each year.

    Hainan’s low-altitude tourism market mainly focuses on aerial sightseeing and skydiving. According to the Hainan Provincial Development and Reform Commission, in 2024, Hainan recorded 209,800 takeoffs and landings for aerial sightseeing and 14,900 for skydiving, accounting for 48 percent and 44 percent of the national totals, respectively. 

    Flight hours for aerial sightseeing and skydiving reached 11,200 and 3,600 hours, respectively, representing 28 percent and 31 percent of national totals, with both categories ranking first in China.

    Policy support has played a key role in the sector’s growth. China has included low-altitude economy in the government work report for two consecutive years, vigorously promoting its development.

    As an innovative application of the low-altitude economy, low-altitude tourism has injected new vitality into tourism while revealing the sector’s enormous market potential.

    Many local governments have also taken proactive steps to develop low-altitude tourism. In July 2024, Guangzhou introduced a series of measures to support low-altitude tourism and aerial sports development. In January 2025, Shanghai successfully tested its first low-altitude passenger route directly connecting to a hotel, enriching the city’s tourism offerings in the area.

    A three-year plan on the development of low-altitude economy in Hainan from 2024 to 2026 proposes expanding low-altitude aircraft tourism scenarios. It supports cities and counties along Hainan’s round-the-island highway to open low-altitude tourism routes using helicopters, electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, and flying cars, enhancing the diversity of low-altitude tourism.

    “With the government’s strong support for the low-altitude economy, we’re highly confident about the future of skydiving and the entire low-altitude tourism sector,” Zhang said.

    Chen Yao, director of a Hainan-based tourism development research institute, said in the future Hainan will develop low-altitude tourism along the round-the-island highway, creating multi-dimensional, immersive and innovative tourism products.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: People fleeing violence in North Darfur need shelter, water, and food story May 06, 2025

    Source: Doctors Without Borders –

    In the weeks since the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) conducted a large-scale ground offensive on Sudan’s Zamzam camp, where nearly 500,000 people were taking shelter, tens of thousands of people are fleeing to areas including the town of Tawila, in North Darfur, while intense fighting reportedly continues in the state capital, El Fasher. 

    People are arriving in Tawila from Zamzam in extreme need; famine was declared in the camp in August 2024, and many people have been seriously injured in the attack. Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is providing medical care in dedicated health posts in Tawila, as well as distributing water and donating dry food, but the needs of the arriving people are overwhelming emergency and nutritional services at the local hospital that MSF supports. People speak of fleeing horrific violence.

    Why are people fleeing Zamzam and going to Tawila?

    • On April 11, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), one of the parties in the war in Sudan, launched a massive ground offensive on Zamzam camp, North Darfur, which is home to at least 500,000 displaced people. Hundreds of people are estimated to have been killed.
    • MSF teams in Tawila, about 35 miles away, witnessed the arrival of thousands of displaced families, who told us that fighters  were going door-to-door, shooting people hiding in their homes, and burning large parts of the camp. 
    • The two health posts MSF set up at the main arrival sites in Tawila have been overwhelmed for two weeks in a row, providing up to 850 medical consultations per day, with patients suffering advanced states of dehydration and exhaustion. People have also arrived with gunshots and shrapnel injuries. MSF has set up a mass casualty plan, and in three weeks, our teams treated 779 patients with gunshot and shrapnel wounds, including 138 children under 15. Of these, 187 were severe cases (including 24 children). 
    • Tens of thousands of people have now set up makeshift shelters in the surroundings of Tawila, and are trying to survive in extremely dire conditions.

    Dr. Mohamed Abubaker examines a patient in the pediatrics department in Tawila. | Sudan 2025 © Thibault Fendler/MSF

    The RSF came with their machine guns and drones,” says Mariam* who reached Tawila three days after the attack on Zamzam took place. “They attacked and killed [people]—including children. They burned our house with everything we had inside. They raped the women. They killed, they looted. Even before the attack, people had died of thirst and of starvation because of the siege that had been imposed on Zamzam for the past year. … They entered the house of one of my sisters, dragged her out, and killed her. My uncle’s son, my aunt’s son, and many people were killed. They slaughtered us like animals.”

    Mariam arrived in Tawila with 20 family members, including her mother, her sisters and their own children. They now spend their days crammed into a makeshift shelter they built with branches and a piece of fabric, sharing the little shade it provides.

    Makeshift shelters have filled what was an empty grass field in Tawila, as thousands of families flee the massive offensive on Zamzam camp. | Sudan 2025 © Thibault Fendler/MSF

    Newly displaced people are living in fields

    Since April 12, when the people first began reaching Tawila from Zamzam, the areas surrounding the town have been completely transformed, with tens of thousands of people now estimated to be living in makeshift shelters in fields that were totally uninhabited just a few weeks ago.

    “For four days now, we have been staying here as you see us, with nothing: no walls, no roof,” says Ibrahim, who fled Zamzam on foot with 11 of his family members. He carried one of his children on his shoulders and another on his back for five days. It’s the fourth time in 10 years he has been displaced in similar circumstances. He describes how soldiers entered people’s homes, forced them outside, and opened fire. Three of his brothers were killed in this manner. On his way to Tawila, he was robbed and witnessed people being beaten so harshly that they could no longer move.

    “We don’t see any future anymore”

    “I’ve been displaced four times over the past 10 years. We arrived in Tawila on April 16. We have been living here since then, under this tree, all 11 of us.

    On Friday, April 11, it started with shelling directly on the camp. Shells were falling where people were gathering. Then they attacked on the ground. We heard gunfire everywhere. Many people got killed, including three of my brothers. Soldiers entered their houses, brought them outside, and opened fire.

    When we managed to leave Zamzam, we left on foot. We had no vehicles, no donkey, no cart, nothing. I had one of my children on my shoulders, another one on my back. My older son and daughter were carrying their younger siblings the same way. Everyone around us was doing the same.

    We were stopped at the exit of the camp by armed men. They searched everyone, even the smallest children. There were looking for anything that had value. Some of us were beaten so harshly, they were not able to move anymore.

    The first night, we took shelter a few miles from there, in the valley of Golo. But there as well, they came for us, to steal from us. We had nothing left, but all those who did, got looted and beaten, once again.

    For four days now, we have been staying here with nothing—no walls, no roof. Under this tree, it is so crowded. We’re lacking water, shelter, and there is nothing to eat. Everyone is hungry. We’re getting most of our food from community kitchens. Sometimes, we manage to get some rice when they distribute meals, but if we don’t, we must wait until the next day to eat something. For the water, we go to the well, which is a bit further away, with our jerrycans. But there are many people, and we have to wait hours to be able to drink. 

    We have nothing left—no money, nothing that could help us leave. We just stay here, hoping we will get enough food to survive on the next day. We don’t see any future anymore.”

    -Ibrahim*

    Needs far outweigh available assistance

    A handful of organizations are present in Tawila, but the number of people in need of assistance far exceeds the capacity to respond. MSF teams have set up two health posts at the main arrival sites to provide newcomers with water and immediate nutritional and medical support, and are referring critical patients to the local hospital that MSF has been supporting since October 2024.

    “Every single person they saw, they shot at”

    “In my life, I have been displaced many times by the violence, from Sarafaya to Mouqrin in 2014, then to Shagra last year, and to Zamzam earlier this year, to finally arrive here, in Tawila. It was on Monday, April 14.

    It was already a similar attack that made us flee from Shagra to Zamzam. In 2024, attackers came on camels and motorcycles and stole everything from us: our horses, our donkeys, our camels, even the tobacco we had just harvested. 

    When we got to Zamzam, the camp was already under siege. Everything was blocked, no supplies entering anymore. Everything became so expensive: food was not affordable anymore. Then the attack on Zamzam happened. It has started with a lot of shelling and then shooting. They came walking, directly inside the camp. Every single person they saw, they shot at them, not matter if it was a child, a woman, or an old person. 

    At the exit of the camp, they were waiting for us. They searched the women, they took anything they thought had value: our money, our cell phones, even our clothes. And on the road to Tawila, it happened again. What little we had left was looted on the way, including our blankets. 

    I arrived to Tawila with my children. I came walking, carrying my youngest children on our donkey. The little water we had was finished. I saw two bodies on the way, with my own eyes. Dead from thirst. 

    Living conditions here are terrible. My elder children go to the market, they buy big boxes of biscuits they then resell by unit. With that very little money, we manage to survive. For water, we can go to a water tank which is a bit further away, but sometimes it’s empty. We managed to buy two jerrycans on the market, but here as well, they were really expensive.

    My children are coughing a lot. We have been to MSF’s health post; they gave us medications, but their condition is not improving. Nights are so cold; we are sleeping on the floor and only have two blankets for the 11 of us.

    As long as we remain safe here, we will stay. And if not… well, we will leave. Once again.”

    –Hamida* 

    Tiphaine Salmon, MSF head nurse, was working in the hospital on the day the mass influx of severe cases began on April 12. “The emergency room was overwhelmed,” she says. “Over the first few days, the number of patients in the hospital almost doubled. At one point, we had four patients in a bed because we did not have enough space. A lot of people had gunshot wounds and blast injuries—we’ve treated 779 people over the past three weeks, including 138 children. Of the 779 patients, 187 were severe cases. The youngest I saw was a 7-month-old baby with a bullet wound that went under his chin and into his shoulder. We also received patients as young as 1 day old suffering from dehydration. Many children arrived without their parents—and many parents were searching desperately for their children.”

    At the same time, our teams in the hospital witnessed an explosion of admissions in our intensive therapeutical feeding center, which treats children under 5 years old suffering from severe acute malnutrition. In the week following the influx, admissions increased almost tenfold, from an average of 6 or 7 per week to more than 60. They were mostly children from Zamzam.

    MSF nurse Hitham checks a patient at an MSF health post in Tawila Umda, where hundreds of people suffering from exhaustion and dehydration have arrived over the past few days. | Sudan 2025 © Thibault Fendler/MSF

    Disease and displacement make a deadly combination

    A suspected measles outbreak began in Tawila in March, worsening an already catastrophic situation. MSF has treated more than 900 suspected measles cases since early February, with more than 300 patients in such severe condition that they required hospitalization. This situation led our teams to launch a large-scale vaccination campaign in the city in the first week of April, reaching 18,000 children under 5 years old.

    Only one week after the massive influx of people from Zamzam began, our teams saw several suspected cases among children who had just arrived from the camp, meaning that measles had already begun to spread in displacement sites.

    In such sites with a high population density and low hygiene conditions, malnutrition and measles can be an especially deadly combination, with disastrous consequences for young children.

    “They just slaughtered us like animals” 

    “Our household is composed of 20 people, including my 12 children, my mother, my sisters and their own children. We arrived from Zamzam five days ago. We were living there since 2014.

    The RSF came with their machine guns and drones. They attacked and killed, including children. They burned our house with everything we had inside. They raped the women. They killed, they looted. But even before that, people died of thirst and of starvation, because of the siege they imposed on Zamzam for the past year. Everything was so expensive and so unaffordable in the end.

    I’ve seen a full group of children being killed during the attack by a shelling. I’ve seen it with my own eyes as we were fleeing.

    Nobody will ever go there and bury them now.

    They entered the house of one of my sisters, dragged her out, and killed her. My uncle’s son, my aunt’s son, and many people were killed. They slaughtered us like animals. 

    On our way to Shagra, at a checkpoint, I asked them why they were killing us like this. They didn’t answer. They raped several girls there. They beat the people, and loot them once again, whatever they had. We had a bit of water left, but they took the bottle and emptied it on the ground, in front of us. They also took our luggage, threw everything on the ground, and chose what they wanted to keep. I only had about 1,500 Sudanese pounds on me [about $2.25], even that they took from me. 

    On the way, there were six checkpoints like this one. At every single checkpoint, they emptied our luggage, searched, and kept what had value. Then they ordered us to pick up the rest and leave immediately. 

    Here, in Tawila, there is no food. Some people in Tawila shared a bit of millet flour with us, from which we make porridge. This is how we have survived so far: begging. We have one blanket for all of us.

    We don’t have any other place to go, and even if we did, we wouldn’t have the money to do so. So, we’re just staying here, hoping to receive a bit of help. We need a better place to stay than this shelter we built with our hands.”

    –Mariam*

    Immediate scale-up of aid is imperative

    MSF is continuing to scale up its intervention in Tawila. As well as carrying out hundreds of medical consultations per day, our organization has donated food to local community kitchens, enabling them to prepare and distribute more than 16,000 meals per day. We have also been providing 100,000 liters of clean water daily, and we have additional plans to construct 300 latrines.

    But the needs of people in Tawila are immense and far outstrip our capacity to respond. Although other actors have also mobilized, and a first mass food distribution has taken place, the humanitarian response still needs to be urgently and rapidly scaled up. We urge UN agencies to substantially increase their presence on the ground so they can coordinate a response with the magnitude to meet the ever-growing needs.

    *Names have been changed for privacy. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom, Superintendent Thurmond announce over $618 million to support another 458 community schools

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 7, 2025

    What you need to know: The State Board of Education voted today to approve funding to support 458 schools sites and build on the nation-leading community schools initiative, which provide families the resources and support they need to thrive, like health care and mental health and social service.

    Governor Gavin Newsom and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced today that the fourth and final round of community schools implementation grants – totaling more than $618 million – were unanimously approved at the May meeting of the State Board of Education earlier today.

    The $4.1 billion California Community Schools Partnership Program (CCSPP) is the nation’s largest investment in dismantling barriers to learning that lead to inequitable student outcomes. Community schools partner with education, county, and nonprofit entities to provide integrated health, mental health, and social services alongside high-quality, supportive instruction with a strong focus on community, family and student engagement.

    “California continues to find and support innovative ways to make schools a place where every family and student can succeed. Today, we build on our nation-leading community schools program – more than 450 additional schools, offering everything from free meals twice a day to mental health counseling to before, after, and summer school programs to thousands more students.” 

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    With the addition of today’s allocation, California is now funding a total of nearly 2,500 community schools to leverage community resources in support of student wellbeing and academic success. These schools represent some of the highest-need school communities in the state of California.

    California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond: “I am proud to see our Community Schools initiative continue to grow as the final cohort of grantees receive funds. These grants support our schools to address foundational needs for learning, making sure that our students are healthy and able to learn. Our Community Schools continue to serve as exemplars of programs that activate resources across the whole school community to educate the whole child. I am proud to see California continue to be at the forefront of recognizing that student wellness is a cornerstone of learning.”

    State Board of Education President Linda Darling-Hammond: “Well-resourced community schools have proven to increase attendance, achievement and attainment for students, transforming their lives and improving the well-being of families, thus uplifting entire communities. Children succeed in the classroom when they are healthy, happy, and in a learning environment where they are surrounded by knowledgeable and caring adults attuned to their needs. I appreciate Governor Newsom for continuing to prioritize the community school approach in California.” 

    Community schools initiative

    Community schools are a key initiative of California’s historic transformation of public schools that includes universal free school meals, universal transitional kindergarten, before- and after-school learning and investments in teacher training, coaching, recruitment and retention. Established in 2021 when the California Legislature passed the California Community Schools Partnership Act, and expanded in 2022, the CCSPP statewide technical assistance infrastructure supports schools and LEAs to coordinate the implementation of these initiatives for maximum impact and sustainability. 

    The Board’s action today awards more than $618 million to 121 LEAs across the state. Those funds will support a total of 458 schools in implementing a community schools approach at their sites. The list of awardees is available through the May 7, 2025 SBE Agenda (see Item 9, Attachment 1).

    Today’s allocation builds on nearly $1.3 billion that the SBE approved last year to support 998 school sites, the $750.5 million approved in ’22-23 to support 570 school sites, and the $625.5 million approved to support 458 school sites in ’21-22 – the first year of the program.

    Funding at work

    Elk Hills Elementary is a K-8 school in the Elk Hills Elementary School District in Kern County. The school, which received CCSPP funding in 2021, organizes its community school around five priority areas: (1) early childhood education, (2) expanded learning, (3) math and literacy education, (4) family and community engagement, and (5) social and mental health services. Through this approach, Elk Hills has gradually seen improvement in a number of areas, including math and ELA scores, according to last year’s data from the California School Dashboard. Included in those results was a significant decrease in chronic absenteeism attributed to relationship-centered structures and practices that aim to enhance school connectedness among students and families.

    Folsom Cordova Unified School District is a community schools district that uses “Coordination of Services Teams” to provide comprehensive support for students facing challenges. As a result of CCSPP funding, at Mills Middle School, reading outcomes have improved for five student groups in one year (African American, English Learners, Hispanic, Socioeconomically Disadvantaged, and Students with Disabilities). This engagement to support students has also supported staff retention, which has dramatically improved at this high-need middle school.

    Buena Vista Horace Mann is a K-8, Spanish dual immersion, community school in the Mission District of San Francisco. A first-round CCSPP implementation grant recipient, the school utilized funding for an on-site therapist, summer school and after-school enrichment programs. The school blends state and local funding sources to offer extensive basic needs, health, and wellness resources to students and families, including on-site behavioral and mental health services and a stay-over program for families experiencing homelessness, which supports stability and safety. This approach has enabled Buena Vista Horace Mann to dramatically reduce its chronic absenteeism rate.

    For more information on the California Community Schools Partnership Program, please visit CDE’s community schools webpage.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    May 7, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his nomination of three Court of Appeal Justices: Associate Justice Helen Zukin as Presiding Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four, Judge Mark Hanasono as Associate Justice of the Second…

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: California and 16 other states today filed a federal lawsuit accusing President Trump of unlawfully withholding billions of dollars approved by bipartisan majorities in Congress for electric vehicle charging infrastructure that would reduce…

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: Despite the Trump Administration’s assaults, both California and Texas are working to build high-speed rail. But only one state has built anything: California. SACRAMENTO — What’s the main difference between California high-speed rail and…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces judicial appointments 5.7.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 7, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced his nomination of three Court of Appeal Justices: Associate Justice Helen Zukin as Presiding Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four, Judge Mark Hanasono as Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Three, and, pending confirmation of Justice Helen Zukin to the role of Presiding Justice, Judge Armen Tamzarian as Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four. 

    The Governor also announced his appointment of 12 Superior Court Judges: one in Fresno County; five in Los Angeles County; one in Orange County; one in Sacramento County; one in San Diego County; one in Santa Barbara County; one in Santa Clara County; and one in Ventura County.

    Second District Court of Appeal

    Associate Justice Helen Zukin, of Los Angeles County, has been nominated to serve as Presiding Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four. She has served as an Associate Justice in Division Four since 2023. She served as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court from 2018 to 2023. Justice Zukin was a partner at Kiesel Law LLP from 2006 to 2018. She worked as a Solo Practitioner at the Law Offices of Helen E. Zukin from 1995 to 2006. She was a partner at Simke, Chodos, Silberfeld & Anteau, Inc. from 1990 to 1995. Justice Zukin worked as an associate at Greene, O’Reilly, Agnew & Broillet from 1985 to 1990. Justice Zukin received a Juris Doctor degree from Loyola Law School. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Presiding Justice Brian Currey. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Senior Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert. Justice Zukin is a Democrat.

    Judge Mark Hanasono, of Los Angeles County, has been nominated to serve as an Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Three. He has served as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court since 2013. Judge Hanasono served as a Deputy Alternate Public Defender at the Los Angeles County Alternate Public Defender’s Office from 2004 to 2013. He was a Deputy Public Defender at the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office from 2000 to 2004. He was a Judicial Law Clerk in the District of Columbia Superior Court from 1999 to 2000. Judge Hanasono received a Juris Doctor degree from Georgetown University. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Justice Luis A. Lavin. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Senior Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert. Judge Hanasono is a Democrat.

    Judge Armen Tamzarian, of Los Angeles County, has been nominated to serve as an Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Four. He has served as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court since 2013. Judge Tamzarian was a lead appellate court attorney at the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Three from 2008 to 2013. He was an associate and later a partner at Case, Knowlson, Jordan & Wright LLP from 1997 to 2008. He was a research attorney at the Los Angeles Superior Court from 1996 to 1997. Judge Tamzarian received a Juris Doctor degree from Southwestern Law School. Pending her confirmation, he will fill the vacancy created by the elevation of Justice Helen Zukin to Presiding Justice. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Senior Presiding Justice Arthur Gilbert. Judge Tamzarian is a Democrat.

    The compensation for each of these positions is $280,052.
     

    Fresno County Superior Court

    Melissa Baloian, of Fresno County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Fresno County Superior Court. Baloian has worked as a Solo Practitioner since 2023. She was a Supervising Attorney at The Matian Firm from 2022 to 2023. She worked as a Solo Practitioner at the Law Office of Melissa Baloian from 2011 to 2022. Baloian served as a Deputy District Attorney at the Madera County District Attorney’s Office in 2011. She worked as a Deputy District Attorney at the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office from 2007 to 2010. Baloian served as a Deputy City Attorney at the Fresno City Attorney’s Office from 2006 to 2007. She served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Fresno County Public Defender’s Office from 2004 to 2006. Baloian received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of San Francisco, School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Adolfo Corona. Baloian is registered as no party preference. 

    Los Angeles County Superior Court

    Syna Dennis, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Dennis has served as a Commissioner in the Los Angeles Superior Court since 2023. She has served in various roles at the Los Angeles County Counsel Office including as a Principal Deputy County Counsel from 2005 to 2023 and a Senior Deputy County Counsel from 1999 to 2005. She worked as an Associate Attorney at the Law Offices of Atkins and Evans from 1989 to 1999. Dennis received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Harvey A. Silberman. Dennis is a Democrat.

    Hoa Hoang, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Hoang has served as a Lead Appellate Court Attorney at the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Seven since 2018. Hoang served in various roles at the Second District Court of Appeals, including as a Senior Appellate Court Attorney from 2017 to 2018 and an Appellate Court Attorney from 2011 to 2017. Hoang worked as an Associate for Hogan Lovells US LLP from 2002 to 2010. She served as a Law Clerk at the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California from 2000 to 2002. Hoang received a Juris Doctor degree from UCLA School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the appointment of Judge Michelle W. Court to the Federal Court. Hoang is a Democrat.

    Lara Bazán, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Bazán has served as a Deputy District Attorney at the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office since 2012. She worked as an Associate at Jones Day from 2008 to 2012. Bazán received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Southern California School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Justice Michelle C. Kim to the Court of Appeal. Bazán is a Democrat.

    Brenda C. Robinson, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Robinson has worked as a Senior Attorney at the Children’s Law Center of California since 2015. She served as a Senior Policy Deputy for the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors from 2013 to 2014. Robinson worked at the Children’s Law Center as a Supervising Attorney from 2007 to 2012 and as a Staff Attorney from 2001 to 2007. Robinson was a Partner at Robinson, Wright, and Newsom from 1998 to 2001. Robinson received a Juris Doctor degree from Golden Gate University School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Justice Anne K. Richardson to the Court of Appeal. Robinson is a Democrat. 

    Maria Jhai, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles Superior Court. Jhai has served as an Assistant United States Attorney at the Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California since 2019. She worked as an Attorney for Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP from 2014 to 2019. Jhai held a temporary position as a Deputy City Attorney at the Office of the Los Angeles City Attorney in 2017. She served as a Law Clerk at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit from 2013 to 2014. Jhai served as a Law Clerk for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan from 2011 to 2013. Jhai received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Michigan Law School. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Douglas W. Sortino. Jhai is a Democrat.

    Orange County Superior Court

    Michael Mooney, of Orange County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Orange County Superior Court. Mooney has served as a Senior Deputy Public Defender at the Orange County Public Defender since 2012. He worked as an Attorney at the Law Office of Thomas Johnson from 2011 to 2012. Mooney received a Juris Doctor degree from McGeorge School of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Julian W. Bailey. Mooney is a Democrat. 
     

    Sacramento County Superior Court

    Martin Tejeda, of Yolo County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Sacramento County Superior Court. Tejeda has served as a Commissioner at the Sacramento County Superior Court since 2023. He was a Sole Practitioner at the Law Offices of Martin Tejeda from 2005 to 2023 and an Associate at Kring and Chung from 2004 to 2005. Tejeda served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Sacramento Public Defender’s Office from 2001 to 2004 and as an attorney at the Law Office of James Kuppenbender from 2000 to 2001. Tejeda  received a Juris Doctor degree from McGeorge School of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the appointment of Judge Dena Coggins to the Federal Court. Tejeda is a Democrat.
     

    San Diego County Superior Court

    Jihan Maloney, of San Diego County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the San Diego County Superior Court. Maloney has served as a Deputy District Attorney at the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office since 2011. She received a Juris Doctor degree from California Western School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge David Gill. Jihan is registered as no party preference.
     

    Santa Barbara County Superior Court

    Teresa Martinez, of Santa Barbara County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Santa Barbara County Superior Court. Martinez has served as Senior Deputy County Counsel at the Santa Barbara County Counsel’s Office since 2018. She was an Associate at Buynak, Fauver, Archbald & Spray LLP from 2017 to 2018. Martinez was a Solo Practitioner at Teresa Martinez Law from 2016 to 2017. She worked at California Rural Legal Assistance in various roles including Directing Attorney from 2013 to 2016 and staff attorney from 2012 to 2013. Martinez was a contract attorney at the Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara County from 2011 to 2012. She received a Juris Doctor degree from Cincinnati College of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Jean M. Dandona. Martinez is a Democrat.

    Santa Clara County Superior Court

    Christopher Van Meir, of Santa Clara County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Santa Clara County Superior Court. Van Meir has served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Santa Clara County Public Defender’s Office since 2018. He served  as a Deputy Public Defender at the Monterey County Public Defender’s Office from 2013 to 2018 and as a Deputy Public Defender at the Placer County Public Defender’s Office from 2006 to 2013. Van Meir received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Jacquiline M. Arroyo. Van Meir is a Democrat.
     

    Ventura County Superior Court

    Carol Hubner, of Ventura County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Ventura County Superior Court. Hubner has served as a Commissioner at the Ventura County Superior Court since 2024. She served as a Commissioner at the Santa Barbara County Superior Court from 2022 to 2024. She was a Managing Partner at Kelly & Hubner, LLP from 2005 to 2022 and a Deputy County Counsel at the Santa Barbara Office of the County Counsel from 2001 to 2005. Hubner worked as an Associate at Hunt & Associates from 2000 to 2001 and as an Associate at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP from 1998 to 2000. Hubner served as a Staff Attorney at the Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County from 1998 to 2000. She worked as a Law Clerk at the United States District Court for the Northern District of California in 1998. Hubner received a Juris Doctor degree from Santa Clara University School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Nancy L. Ayers. Hubner is a Democrat.

    The compensation for each of these positions is $244,727.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: California and 16 other states today filed a federal lawsuit accusing President Trump of unlawfully withholding billions of dollars approved by bipartisan majorities in Congress for electric vehicle charging infrastructure that would reduce…

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: Despite the Trump Administration’s assaults, both California and Texas are working to build high-speed rail. But only one state has built anything: California. SACRAMENTO — What’s the main difference between California high-speed rail and…

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: A new report details nearly $33 billion raised for climate projects and direct support for Californians funded by cap-and-trade, as Governor Gavin Newsom and legislative leaders seek an extension of the program. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California sues Trump administration for illegally withholding billions in bipartisan infrastructure funds: ‘Another Trump gift to China’

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 7, 2025

    What you need to know: California and 16 other states today filed a federal lawsuit accusing President Trump of unlawfully withholding billions of dollars approved by bipartisan majorities in Congress for electric vehicle charging infrastructure that would reduce toxic pollution, expand access to clean vehicles and create thousands of green jobs.

    SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced today that a multi-state lawsuit was filed in federal court challenging actions taken by President Trump’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to thwart Congress’s $5 billion program to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. The Trump administration’s unlawful actions would cost Californians more than $300 million, eliminate thousands of good-paying jobs and hobble a critical, emerging tech industry. 

    On the first day of his administration, President Trump issued an executive order directing federal agencies to immediately stop releasing funds appropriated through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including $5 billion that Congress appropriated for electric vehicle charging stations under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program. 

    Following that directive, FHWA effectively halted the NEVI Formula Program by, among other things, unlawfully withholding billions in funds that Congress had directed to the states for building EV infrastructure.

    When America retreats, China wins.

    President Trump’s illegal action withholding funds for electric vehicle infrastructure is yet another Trump gift to China – ceding American innovation and killing thousands of jobs.

    Instead of hawking Teslas on the White House lawn, President Trump could actually help Elon – and the nation – by following the law and releasing this bipartisan funding.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    California, Colorado, and Washington led a coalition of 17 states in suing FHWA. The lawsuit states that FHWA’s unlawful actions deprive the states of billions of dollars in appropriated funds, ignores Congressional mandates, violates the U.S. Constitution and will devastate the ability of states to build the charging infrastructure necessary for making EVs accessible to more consumers, combating climate change, reducing other harmful pollution, and supporting the states’ green economies. 

    “The President continues to roll back environmental and climate change protections, this time illegally stripping away billions of dollars for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, all to line the pockets of his Big Oil friends,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The facts don’t lie: the demand for clean transportation continues to rise, and California will be at the forefront of this transition to a more sustainable, low-emissions future. California will not back down, not from Big Oil, and not from federal overreach.” 

    California’s State Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment Plan anticipated that California would need hundreds of thousands of additional EV charging ports to support passenger cars and trucks and incrementally more charging ports for medium- and heavy-duty trucks and buses to meet climate goals. The plan, approved by the federal government, would leverage public funding and private investment to build out a statewide charging infrastructure, including $384 million from the NEVI program.   

    The lawsuit requests the court to declare that President Trump’s directives are unlawful, vacate the actions and permanently stop the administration from withholding the funds. 

    A national leader in zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) and infrastructure

    California’s support for clean cars is unmatched, and the state is home to more than 30% of new ZEVs sold in the U.S. With the rise in EV and plug-in hybrid demand, the state is committed to rapidly deploying funds to develop and ensure a reliable and easy-to-use charging network. The state has doubled down on improving the charging network and making it even easier to buy an EV:

    • More than 178,000 public or shared private electric vehicle charging ports have been installed throughout California, plus more than 700,000 at-home charging ports. 
    • Grants and rebates for thousands of dollars are available for low-income Californians to purchase EVs. Learn more at ClimateAction.ca.gov or ElectricForAll.org.

    The work doesn’t stop with passenger electric vehicles — the state has been hard at work to cut emissions from trucks and buses. Recent efforts include:

    • More than $640 million toward the deployment of zero-emission truck and bus recharging and refueling infrastructure.
    • $500 million to put another 1,000 ZEV school buses on the road.
    • More than $1.3 billion for public transportation projects, including several that support zero-emission buses. 

    California’s strategy for a clean transportation transition

    In addition to advancing ZEVs, the Newsom Administration is prioritizing clean fuel production, public transit and rail infrastructure enhancements, and a cleaner, smarter electric grid to help power it all. As California works toward this clean transportation future, the state is also advancing efforts to prevent gasoline price spikes. 

    Standing up for California communities and businesses 

    Today’s lawsuit follows the Governor’s recent announcement that California is challenging President Trump’s authority to unilaterally enact tariffs. The Governor also intends to create new strategic trade relationships with international partners aimed at strengthening shared economic resilience and protecting California’s manufacturers, workers, farmers, businesses, and supply chains. The Governor has also announced a new international campaign to help maintain the strong tourism partnership between California and Canada.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: Despite the Trump Administration’s assaults, both California and Texas are working to build high-speed rail. But only one state has built anything: California. SACRAMENTO — What’s the main difference between California high-speed rail and…

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: A new report details nearly $33 billion raised for climate projects and direct support for Californians funded by cap-and-trade, as Governor Gavin Newsom and legislative leaders seek an extension of the program. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin…

    May 7, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 4-10, 2025 as “Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONChildren’s mental health has become an…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tale of two trains: California high-speed rail leaves Texas in the dust

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 7, 2025

    What you need to know: Despite the Trump Administration’s assaults, both California and Texas are working to build high-speed rail. But only one state has built anything: California.

    SACRAMENTO — What’s the main difference between California high-speed rail and Texas high-speed rail? California’s system is under construction; Texas’ has yet to break ground. 

    California has transitioned from vision and ideas to active construction and tangible economic benefits, while the Texas project remains a dream mostly on paper. Despite the noise from Washington, California high-speed rail is becoming real. It’s another critical project part of the Governor’s build more, faster agenda delivering infrastructure upgrades and thousands of jobs across the state.

    The facts speak for themselves — here’s the progress since 2013 for both systems:

     

    California High-Speed Rail

     

    Texas Central

     
    Route 494 miles – San Francisco to Los Angeles/Anaheim via Central Valley 240 miles – Dallas to Houston, via Brazos Valley
    Construction Status ✅ 171 miles under active development; 119 miles under active construction; 52 major structures built; extensions to Merced and Bakersfield in design ❌ Not started
    Environmental Clearance ✅ 463 of 494 miles environmentally cleared by federal and state government  Federal clearance (less comprehensive and transparent)
    Station Development ✅ Merced, Fresno, Kings/Tulare and Bakersfield in advance design. ❌ Not started
    Funding Structure ✅ Public funding (state + federal) with potential for future private investment ❌ Private, federal funding pulled
    Projected Opening  ✅ Early Operating Segment: 2030-2033 ❌ Not established
    Jobs Created ✅ 15,000+ jobs ❌ None reported
    Economic Benefits

    ✅ The project has already generated nearly $22 billion in economic output, boosting the state’s economy. The full San Francisco-Los Angeles system is estimated to support $221.8 billion in economic output once it’s in operation.

    		 ❌ No current data. The project is anticipated to generate $36 billion in economic impact over the next 25 years.
    Environmental Benefits

    ✅ Estimated to reduce California’s greenhouse gas emissions by 0.6 to 3 million MTCO2e annually – this is the equivalent of removing 142,000 to 700,000 cars off the road.

    Diverted 95% of construction waste from landfills by recycling, reusing or composting.  

    		 ❌ No current data
    Integration with Existing Transit ✅ Future connections to Caltrain, ACE, High Desert Corridor, Brightline West, Metrolink ❌ Standalone

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    May 7, 2025

    News What you need to know: A new report details nearly $33 billion raised for climate projects and direct support for Californians funded by cap-and-trade, as Governor Gavin Newsom and legislative leaders seek an extension of the program. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin…

    May 7, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 4-10, 2025 as “Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONChildren’s mental health has become an…

    May 6, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Paul Henderson, of San Francisco, has been appointed to the California African American Museum Board of Directors. Henderson has been the Executive Director at the San Francisco…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: State invests nearly $33 billion in cap-and-trade dollars to make communities cleaner and healthier

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 7, 2025

    What you need to know: A new report details nearly $33 billion raised for climate projects and direct support for Californians funded by cap-and-trade, as Governor Gavin Newsom and legislative leaders seek an extension of the program.

    SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that nearly $33 billion has been raised from polluters to fund climate solutions in communities across the state with money from the state’s cap-and-trade program, according to a new report published by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

    The annual report provides detailed information about California Climate Investments (CCI), which distributes funds generated by cap‑and‑trade to 117 climate programs across the state.

    “California is proving that cutting pollution creates jobs and boosts communities. By holding polluters accountable, we’re sending billions of dollars back to communities and back to people’s wallets through credits on utility bills. And we’ve got the receipts: healthier and cleaner communities and thousands of good paying jobs.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    CARB oversees CCI, which puts cap‑and‑trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health — particularly among communities and households facing greater economic and environmental challenges. 

    In 2024, cap-and-trade investments went to nearly 12,000 new projects using $1.9 billion in funding, with $1.2 billion directly benefiting communities and households. The investments are a key part of Governor Newsom’s build more, faster agenda delivering infrastructure upgrades and creating jobs across the state. 

    Since the program’s inception 11 years ago, over $18 billion in funding has been awarded, with nearly $13 billion of that having already gone to over half a million projects that are complete or in progress. Project funding already on the ground is expected to wipe out emissions equivalent to taking more than 80% of the state’s gas cars off the road for a year, with billions of dollars more in the process of being disbursed. 

    Examples of investments include:

    In addition to community investments, cap-and-trade has also delivered $15 billion in bill credits back to utility customers and is reducing carbon pollution from industry investments in cleaner, more advanced technologies directly at their emission source.

    “California is proud of how we’ve invested billions of cap-and-trade dollars across the state over the last decade,” said CARB Chair Liane Randolph. “From individual incentives for cleaner cars and water-efficient appliances, to forest health programs that help safeguard communities from wildfire, these programs provide benefits to all Californians. In addition, cap-and-trade has also delivered $15 billion in bill credits back to utility customers. It’s climate policy that pays.” 
     

    Extending the cap‑and‑trade program

    Cap-and-trade is a foundational part of California’s climate policy portfolio. To help achieve the state’s goal of net-zero carbon pollution by 2045, this program must be extended beyond the current sunset date of 2030.

    Governor Newsom recently announced that he, alongside legislative leaders Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, will seek an extension of the cap‑and‑trade program during this legislative year. Extending the program in 2025 can provide the market with greater certainty, attract stable investment, further California’s climate leadership, and set the state on a clear path to achieve its 2045 carbon-neutrality goal.
     

    How cap-and-trade works

    Cap-and-trade establishes a declining limit on major sources of carbon pollution throughout California. It covers the largest polluters, including large factories, energy companies, and oil and gas suppliers – accounting for 80% of the state’s total climate emissions.

    The program creates a powerful economic incentive for polluters to invest in cleaner, more efficient technologies and energy, or continue to pay for carbon emissions they produce with the funding raised from the payments used to invest in carbon reduction projects. 
     

    California’s climate leadership

    Pollution is down and the economy is up. Greenhouse gas emissions in California are down 20% since 2000 – even as the state’s GDP increased 78% in that same time period.

    The state continues to set clean energy records. Last year, California ran on 100% clean electricity for the equivalent of 51 days – with the grid running on 100% clean energy for some period three out of every five days. Since the beginning of the Newsom Administration, battery storage is up to over 13,000 megawatts – a 1,600%+ increase.

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    May 7, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 4-10, 2025 as “Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONChildren’s mental health has become an…

    May 6, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Paul Henderson, of San Francisco, has been appointed to the California African American Museum Board of Directors. Henderson has been the Executive Director at the San Francisco…

    May 6, 2025

    News What you need to know: The Governor attended the annual ceremony, honoring the 232 fallen CHP officers since the Department’s establishment in 1929. Sacramento, California – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom attended the California Highway Patrol Memorial Ceremony,…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 12 killed in road accident in Chad

    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

    YAOUNDE, May 8 (Xinhua) — At least 12 people were killed in a head-on collision between two cars in Chad’s Kanem province on Wednesday night.

    Local media reported, citing police, that a Toyota Hilux with passengers collided with a heavy truck.

    As a result of the accident, several people were injured, the victims were rushed to a local hospital. Among the victims were students.

    An official investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the accident. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Myanmar: Life-saving education funding must be restored following USAID cuts 

    Source: Amnesty International –

    The United States and other governments must urgently find funding for education programmes in Myanmar that were a lifeline for students, teachers and families in the war-torn country, Amnesty International said today, as it warned of a “lost generation” if no action is taken.

    Testimony from teachers and students gathered by Amnesty International showed the impact on Myanmar students of US President Donald Trump’s sweeping cuts to foreign aid, which included the termination of more than US$70 million in funding for education programmes in Myanmar, according to those involved in the efforts.

    “The battering of Myanmar’s education sector since the 2021 military coup has robbed millions of young people of opportunities. These US cuts to education programmes now make the prospect of a lost generation increasingly likely,” said Joe Freeman, Amnesty International’s Myanmar Researcher.

    “But it is not too late to fill this vacuum in Myanmar students’ education. Governments and universities in the US and beyond must find a way to enable them to continue their studies and prevent them being sent back to a conflict zone, where they are at risk of arbitrary detention, torture and other ill-treatment; aerial and ground attacks on their communities; and forced conscription into a military that routinely resorts to human rights abuses as a strategy of war.”

    The US-funded education programmes, enacted after the coup, supported Myanmar students studying at Southeast Asian universities; online higher education initiatives; and basic education services for children in ethnic, remote and rural communities.

    They were a rare bright spot in an ever-deteriorating human rights situation in the country, where to date more than 6,000 civilians have been killed and more than 20,000 detained. In 2025, nearly 20 million people are expected to need humanitarian assistance.

    A 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on 28 March 2025, killing nearly 4,000 people and destroying hospitals, homes, monasteries and at least 1,000 schools, has only exacerbated these needs. It will also create additional hurdles for students seeking an education after more than four years of armed conflict in the country.

    “The US cuts to foreign aid made a bad situation worse. The Trump administration must reverse course and not abandon Myanmar students working to fulfill their dreams under extremely challenging circumstances. But if the US continues to fail Myanmar’s young people, other governments, universities and donors must step up and help,” Joe Freeman said.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Yemen, Sudan, Occupied Palestinian Territory & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (7 May 2025)

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Stephanie Tremblay, Associate Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Secretary-General’s Travel
    Yemen
    Sudan
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Ukraine
    Haiti
    Security Council
    Science, Technology and Innovation Forum

    SECRETARY-GENERAL’S TRAVEL
    The Secretary-General is Denmark today, where tomorrow he will chair the meeting of the Chief Executives Board of the United Nations which brings together the heads of the UN system. 
    Earlier today, the Secretary-General met with Ms. Mette Frederiksen, Prime Minister of Denmark. The Secretary-General expressed appreciation for Denmark’s steadfast cooperation with and support for the United Nations, including for its role as host of UN agencies as well as its constructive role as a non-permanent member of the Security Council.
    The Secretary-General expressed appreciation for Denmark’s steadfast cooperation, as well as its constructive role as a non-permanent member of the Security Council. 
    Prior to meeting the Prime Minister, the Secretary-General toured UN City, the compound in Copenhagen that houses United Nations offices in the Danish capital. During a townhall meeting, the Secretary-General congratulated the staff for the work they are doing. 
    This evening, the Secretary-General and the heads of the United Nations system are attending a welcome diner hosted by the King and Queen of Denmark.

    YEMEN
    The UN welcomes the announcement made by the Sultanate of Oman regarding an agreement between the United States and the Houthis in Yemen on 6 May, and commend Oman for its efforts in this regard.
    The UN had consistently called for restraint and de-escalation in and around Yemen and the wider region. We also have called for an immediate cessation of Houthi attacks against merchant and commercial vessels in line with relevant Security Council resolutions. We reaffirm the need for all to respect the rights and obligations relating to maritime navigation in accordance with international law. We remain committed to supporting the Yemeni parties to reach a negotiated political settlement to end the conflict.
    The UN encourages all parties to engage constructively with UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg to this end.

    SUDAN
    Moving to Sudan, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, expressed deep concern over the ongoing drone strikes in Port Sudan, which is a hub for our humanitarian operations and key entry point for aid.
    Mr. Fletcher stressed that international humanitarian law must be respected and that constant care must be taken to spare civilians and civilian infrastructure.
    Flights of the UN Humanitarian Air Services – or UNHAS – to and from Port Sudan have been suspended since May 4th. The World Food Programme, which manages UNHAS, says it will resume air operations as soon as conditions allow.
    These disruptions are impacting the movement of humanitarian personnel into Sudan and onward to other parts of the country, further straining the delivery of urgently needed assistance. Meanwhile, OCHA reports that drone attacks have also affected the states of Kassala and River Nile. Earlier this week in Kassala, strikes near the airport displaced about 2,900 people and led to the temporary suspension or relocation of some aid activities.
    Meanwhile, River Nile State is still facing a power blackout following a drone strike on the transformer station in Atbara on April 25th. The outage is contributing to growing fuel and bread shortages and long queues at petrol stations and bakeries.

    OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
    Turning to the situation in Gaza, our colleagues from the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs warn that the situation there is growing worse by the day. Yet we and our partners are committed to staying and delivering to help alleviate the suffering of the people exhausted by many months of fighting.
    Attacks on schools sheltering displaced people continue to be reported, leading to casualties. Yesterday in Deir al Balah, an UNRWA school in Al Bureij camp was hit twice in several hours, with dozens of people reportedly killed, including women and children. Another school in Gaza city sheltering displaced people was also struck yesterday, with reports that 20 people were killed.
    Across Gaza, community kitchens serving hot meals continue to shut down, as they use up their last remaining supplies. As of yesterday, one in every three community kitchens supported by the UN and our partners in Gaza has closed.

    Full highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=07%20May%202025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4A1_sSsDPg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jimmy Panetta’s Statement on Middle East Developments

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) released the following statement on recent developments in the Middle East:

    “As the Middle East continues to be a tinder box of tensions, it is critical that the United States maintain its work with our partners to counter Iran and other extremist groups and bring stability to the region.  During my limited time in Congress, I have been to the Middle East more than any other region in an effort to ensure that countries, including Israel, continue their commitment to work with the U.S. to achieve peace.  This includes establishing mechanisms that prevent Iran from furthering tensions and diplomatic efforts to prevent a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. 

    “Israel has the right and obligation to defeat Hamas and rescue the remaining 59 hostages still held in Gaza.  At the same time, it is critical that Israel enables the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza.  During the recent ceasefire, Israel surged humanitarian supplies into Gaza, including 25,000 trucks full of food, essential medicine, and fuel. Unfortunately, Hamas prevented or negated some of that aid from reaching civilians in dire need.  While the temporary truce allowed for the release of hostages, the ceasefire was ended in March after Hamas refused to cooperate on any further release of hostages.  Israel subsequently issued a blockade of Gaza to pressure Hamas to release the remaining hostages and negotiate a regional security plan.  However, this restriction has impacted Palestinian civilians by furthering suffering and malnutrition in Gaza and creating resentment in the region. 

    “Israel will defend itself against Iran and its proxies of Hamas, Hezbollah, and others.  Yet, those extremist groups drive chaos, recruit, and garner support from the suffering of civilian populations in war zones.  Israel’s security will be enhanced when stable governing structures emerge in those places where Iran’s proxies act.  That starts with Israel immediately allowing humanitarian assistance back into Gaza to alleviate suffering.  Hamas must release every hostage now.  Israel must continue to work with the U.S. and Arab partners in the region to support Palestinian leadership that can be an alternative to Hamas.  The cycle of regional conflict that has been devastating to civilian populations will be broken only with the foundation of humanity, stability, and security.

    “As threats from Iran and its proxy networks persist across Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen, the United States will continue its work with willing partners to confront terrorism, counter the spread of radical influence, and protect regional energy infrastructure and international shipping lanes.  The United States can do that by continuing to build a coalition of partners to deter Iran. Israel will be a part of that effort, while it works to defeat Hamas and immediately deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. That would help stop the suffering of Palestinians and provide a foundation of stability and security for Israel and a path to peace in the Middle East.”
     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Persecutions of Hellenism by Türkiye – E-001700/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001700/2025
    to the Council
    Rule 144
    Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)

    Over the past 70 years, Greeks have suffered significant persecution by Türkiye, with serious consequences for Hellenism in its ancestral homeland.

    In 1955, the September Pogrom in Constantinople was a tragic climax of tension: Greek property was looted, churches were destroyed and thousands of Greeks were expelled. In 1964, the Turkish Government ordered the expulsion of Greek nationals and the confiscation of their property, further reducing the Greek population of Constantinople. At the same time, the situation on Imbros and Tenedos worsened, as Türkiye violated international agreements and effectively altered the ethnological character of the islands. To this day, the Greeks of Constantinople, Imbros and Tenedos remain very few in number, bearing the scars of displacement and oppression, with over 99 per cent having sought asylum in order to survive outside Türkiye.

    Certainly, the invasion of Cyprus in 1974 brought a new wave of refugees and ethnic cleansing against Hellenism by the Turkish military forces who illegally invaded, occupied and purged the Greeks on over one third of the island.

    Clearly, it is absolutely essential to protect human rights and cultural heritage, especially when it comes to Greek (European) citizens.

    In view of this:

    • 1.How many times and with what demands has the Greek Government raised the issue over the last decade?
    • 2.Consequently, how has the Council raised the issue with the Turkish Government?

    Submitted: 29.4.2025

    Last updated: 7 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Temporary road closure on the C1087 Bealach Na Ba road Saturday 17 May 2025

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Motorists are being advised by The Highland Council that there will be a temporary road closure on the C1087 Bealach Na Ba Road.

    The closure will be in operation at 10:00 hours on and will remain in effect until 12:30 hours on Saturday 17 May the same day.

    This is to facilitate the holding of the Bealach Na Ba cycle event. The road will be closed to vehicular traffic (with the exception of vehicles used by event organisers) the full length of the C1087 Bealach Na Ba Road from its junction with the A896 Shieldaig-Kishorn-Lochcarron Road westwards to its junction with the C1091 Applecross-Shieldaig (Coast) Road.

    Access will be maintained at all times for emergency vehicles and pedestrian access.

    To avoid the road closure an alternative route will be available via A896 Shieldaig-Kishorn-Lochcarron Road and the C1091 Applecross-Shieldaig (Coast) Road.

    7 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Before, during and after severe weather, Verizon’s got you

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Before, during and after severe weather, Verizon’s got you

    NEW YORK – In response to the growing threat of severe weather, including hurricanes, wildfires, and tornadoes, Verizon is reaffirming its commitment to keeping customers connected. Through resilient network infrastructure, specialized response teams, and proactive community support initiatives, Verizon is prepared to support customers, communities, and public safety agencies when it matters most.

    “In the face of severe weather, we know our customers rely on Verizon. We understand the vital role connectivity plays in their life, and we work tirelessly to ensure that connectivity is there when they need us most,” said Joe Russo, Executive Vice President, Global Networks and Technology, Verizon. “That’s why we work year-round planning, building and fortifying our network operations to ensure we’re at our best when Mother Nature is at its worst.”

    Keeping you connected

    Verizon’s industry-leading network covers 99 percent of where people live, work and play. With built-in backup power, redundant fiber routes, and hardened infrastructure, our network is designed to withstand the harshest conditions. One hundred percent of Verizon’s macro cell sites have backup battery power, and in addition to permanent generators at critical network facilities and cell sites, we have more than 1,000 mobile generators on standby to maintain connectivity in the event of commercial power loss. Customers can always get real-time updates on the status of the network in their area via the Check Network Status tool on Verizon’s website or the My Verizon app.

    Verizon runs to a crisis to meet the needs of the communities it serves, with a fleet of resources and specialized teams staged across the country to support response and recovery operations:

    • Nearly 3,000 network and satellite assets are ready to deploy to the hardest hit areas to serve as mobile cell sites, temporary emergency command centers, and self-contained basecamp operations, or conduct drone missions for infrastructure assessments.
    • Across the country, there are teams of highly-specialized engineers and technicians who train throughout the year in HAZMAT, disaster response, and incident management who stand ready to deploy in the event of a crisis.
    • Verizon’s Global Event Management Center monitors weather and all -hazards 24/7 365 days to mitigate risk to our teams and network and leads overall coordination of our crisis response and recovery operations.

    Satellite when it matters most

    Verizon’s integration of satellite technology enhances network resilience and reliability, helping maintain vital connectivity when it matters most. In emergency situations where traditional cellular networks are impacted, satellite connections can provide a critical lifeline for Verizon customers. All Verizon customers with compatible devices can send text messages to any other customer device via satellite if terrestrial cellular network service is interrupted, ensuring continued communication with first responders, loved ones, and emergency services.

    Verizon also integrates the use of satellites in its fleet of portable assets used for storm recovery. Satellite linked mobile cell sites, satellite links on trailers and other satellite assets help restore service when fiber is damaged by natural disasters and provide additional coverage for search, rescue and response teams.

    Ready on the Frontline

    The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team stands ready to provide mission-critical communications support to public safety agencies responding to severe weather events – at no cost to the supported agencies.

    Primarily composed of former first responders and military members, the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team responded to more than 1,500 requests for support from more than 800 different federal, state and local public safety agencies across 46 states in 2024. That support has continued in 2025 with the team already responding to nearly 400 requests for support from more than 200 agencies within the first four months of the year.

    The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team provides on-demand, emergency assistance during crisis situations to public safety agencies and first responders on a 24/7 basis. Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team members set up portable cell sites, Wi-Fi hotspots, charging stations and other Verizon Frontline devices and solutions that help enable communications and/or boost network performance for first responders.

    Verizon also recently announced the launch of the Verizon Frontline Network Slice in select markets nationwide, continuing to build on the company’s more than 30-year history of cutting-edge innovation in support of our nation’s first responders.

    The Verizon Frontline Network Slice is a 5G Ultra Wideband (UW) virtual network slice completely dedicated to public safety that allows for the allocation of network resources within Verizon’s network infrastructure. This helps provide first responders several key advantages including dedicated 5G UW network capacity, tailored performance, enhanced reliability and flexible scalability.

    Committed to the community

    Verizon’s long-standing commitment to disaster-impacted communities is expanding given the increasing frequency of weather-related natural disasters to enable communities to better prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters.

    Verizon has rolled out flood sensor technology, in partnership with innovative start-up Hyfi, to use our network and data to spread urgent messages about flood risks within communities, helping people to confidently prepare for and mitigate their damaging effects. Hyfi’s high-tech, low-cost sensor runs on Verizon’s 5G network and provides stormwater managers with real-time data on current water levels and future flood risks. In fact, the stormwater sensors have rolled out in New Orleans and provided critical data to the city when Hurricane Francine hit in 2024. We have a goal to expand those flood sensors — along with other advanced technologies – to additional cities that are susceptible to weather-related disasters, such as Chicago, Detroit, Miami and Los Angeles.

    Verizon has also launched its Disaster Resilience Prize in partnership with MIT Solve to support tech advancement for game-changing technology that helps mitigate the effects of natural disasters.

    Partnering with United Way and Habitat for Humanity, Verizon is also rolling out comprehensive preparatory, response and recovery services across 15 cities, including workshops educating people on how to make personal emergency plans (such as safeguarding documents and making an escape plan), supporting nonprofits responding to specific weather-related events, and longer term recovery activities once disasters have struck (such as rebuilding homes, mental and emotional health services, long-term financial assistance, job assistance, and community clean ups).

    Ready to Serve

    With thousands of retail locations coast to coast, you’re never far from one of our retail stores. Our knowledgeable retail team can help make sure you have what you need in advance of severe weather and get you back up and running after. While storms and power outages can impact our retail hours, our website, www.verizon.com/stores, always has the latest information on store hours and locations so you can ensure we’re there when you need us most. And of course we’re always available online and via our My Verizon app.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Aggravated assault – Ludmilla

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to a rock throwing incident in Ludmilla overnight.

    Around 10:20pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received a report that a brick had been thrown through a rear side window of a vehicle traveling outbound on Bagot Road near the entrance to Bagot Community.

    The vehicle was carrying 4 occupants, with a woman suffering a serious injury to her eye.

    Police and St John Ambulance attended, and the woman was conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital for treatment.

    The alleged offender is described as a male youth aged around 14-years-old. He allegedly fled with two other youths into Bagot Community.

    Patrols were conducted in the area and investigations into the identity of the offender remain ongoing.

    Detectives are urging anyone with information, particularly if you have dash-cam footage along Bagot Road yesterday evening , to contact police on 131 444, quoting reference number NTP2500047387. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Myanmar: Life-saving education funding must be restored following USAID cuts

    Source: Amnesty International

    The United States and other governments must urgently find funding for education programmes in Myanmar that were a lifeline for students, teachers and families in the war-torn country, Amnesty International said today, as it warned of a “lost generation” if no action is taken.

    Testimony from teachers and students gathered by Amnesty International showed the impact on Myanmar students of US President Donald Trump’s sweeping cuts to foreign aid, which included the termination of more than US$70 million in funding for education programmes in Myanmar, according to those involved in the efforts.

    “The battering of Myanmar’s education sector since the 2021 military coup has robbed millions of young people of opportunities. These US cuts to education programmes now make the prospect of a lost generation increasingly likely,” said Joe Freeman, Amnesty International’s Myanmar Researcher.

    “But it is not too late to fill this vacuum in Myanmar students’ education. Governments and universities in the US and beyond must find a way to enable them to continue their studies and prevent them being sent back to a conflict zone, where they are at risk of arbitrary detention, torture and other ill-treatment; aerial and ground attacks on their communities; and forced conscription into a military that routinely resorts to human rights abuses as a strategy of war.”

    The US-funded education programmes, enacted after the coup, supported Myanmar students studying at Southeast Asian universities; online higher education initiatives; and basic education services for children in ethnic, remote and rural communities.

    They were a rare bright spot in an ever-deteriorating human rights situation in the country, where to date more than 6,000 civilians have been killed and more than 20,000 detained. In 2025, nearly 20 million people are expected to need humanitarian assistance.

    A 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on 28 March 2025, killing nearly 4,000 people and destroying hospitals, homes, monasteries and at least 1,000 schools, has only exacerbated these needs. It will also create additional hurdles for students seeking an education after more than four years of armed conflict in the country.

    “The US cuts to foreign aid made a bad situation worse. The Trump administration must reverse course and not abandon Myanmar students working to fulfill their dreams under extremely challenging circumstances. But if the US continues to fail Myanmar’s young people, other governments, universities and donors must step up and help,” Joe Freeman said.

    Myanmar education sector in turmoil

    After the Myanmar military seized power on 1 February 2021, teachers and students walked out of schools in protest, entering a parallel education system under the deposed civilian government with new schools built from scratch, using existing buildings such as people’s homes and carried out online.

    The military responded by arresting teachers and attacking schools with air strikes, as armed conflict intensified across the country, especially in places where schools in areas outside of military control were functioning. The overall situation led to a sharp decline in enrolment rates, limited access to functioning schools and a shortage in materials for teaching. Against this backdrop the US-funded education programmes carried out vital work to fill the void while also helping shield students, teachers and parents from human rights abuses.

    Since late last year, Amnesty International has conducted remote and in-person interviews with more than 50 people involved in education across Myanmar from Chin, Rakhine, Kayah and Karenni States, as well as Magwe, Sagaing and Mandalay Regions and individuals living in exile.  They include students, teachers, education officials, parents and survivors of air strikes on schools. All stressed the vital importance of education for the future of the country, despite the constant disruptions in providing it.

    One teacher told Amnesty International: “Even when I’m teaching, I’m always on edge, especially when I hear aircraft overhead. There have been moments when I’ve heard the sound of artillery while teaching, which is deeply unsettling.”

    Another said: “The main goal now is to prevent any disruption to the children’s learning, so schools have been reopened wherever possible. However, the quality of education isn’t as high as it was before the coup, mainly because of the constant need to relocate due to safety concerns. Teachers and students often have to flee both day and night, which disrupts the learning process.”

    Among the most recent interviewees were recipients of a US-funded initiative called the Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship Program (DISP). Launched in 2024, this USD45 million USAID-funded programme aimed to support 1,000 students from Myanmar to study in universities online and across Southeast Asia in Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand.

    But it became an early and very public victim of President Trump’s attacks on anything related to diversity, equity and inclusion. One of his first announcements as president was to cancel the program, singling it out again in his joint remarks to Congress in March.

    “While the US administration has falsely portrayed this programme as a prime example of wasteful spending, it is anything but. The students we spoke to describe the programme as providing a safe haven to them in times of war back home and of reinvigorating their dreams,” Joe Freeman said.

    Miranda, 18, was in high school when the coup happened, and like other students participated in protests. Her family later fled to eastern Myanmar, where she witnessed gunfights and bombings, eventually crossing over into Thailand to seek shelter.

    “When I got the [DISP] scholarship it was like a golden chance for me to start my new life again,” said Miranda, who was pursuing a degree in tourism management in the Philippines.

    She had only finished her first semester when the programme was cancelled, making her one of hundreds across the region without support.

    “If we have to go back to our country … we will be lost again.”

    Oakley, a student from central Myanmar, faces similar challenges. But when he received the DISP scholarship, it gave him hope of a better future.

    “I have experienced a lot of bomb explosions, a lot of war around my village. That is really devastating,” he told Amnesty International. “I believed that this was my life-changing opportunity. I feel shocked and so hopeless.”

    Students like Miranda and Oakley fear going back to Myanmar, where they could be arrested for supporting anti-coup protests or be among Myanmar’s many victims of air strikes.

    “Even though we want to go back to Myanmar, we cannot,” Oakley said. “The situation in Myanmar is not safe anymore.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – It’s good to be a truckie on the Coast

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    National road freight association Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand is partnering with Teletrac Navman to produce a detailed snapshot of the road transport sector.
    The report will be released at Transporting New Zealand’s South Island Road Freight Seminar in Christchurch on 28 June.
    One of the early findings is that truck drivers on the West Coast of the South Island do well in comparison to the rest of New Zealand.
    “The latest Census data shows that the West Coast has the best-paid truck drivers in the country, followed by Southland and Waikato,” says Transporting New Zealand’s Policy and Advocacy Lead, Billy Clemens.
    “This varies according to the different regional freight tasks and demands. Our analysis will dig into that further.”
    The upcoming report will analyse shifts in age, gender, income trends, and even home ownership across the 33,000-strong truck-driving workforce.
    It is the latest element of the Driving Change Diversity Programme, sponsored by fleet management solutions provider Teletrac Navman as part of that company’s commitment to supporting workforce development in the transport sector.
    Clemens says having an evidence-based report of workforce trends will help road freight businesses with planning and building resilience.
    “We know that over 30,000 New Zealanders work as truck drivers – as at 2023, this figure was up to 33,744. However, we’ve been missing evidence-based insights into the number of women working in the industry, the age of the workforce, average hours worked, income, and other demographic trends.
    “Our Road Transport Workforce Snapshot will look at data from the past three censuses, along with other authoritative data sources, to paint a comprehensive picture.
    “This information will help ensure Transporting New Zealand and our members are prepared for changes in the workforce, help guide our policy and project priorities and will demonstrate the progress the road freight sector is making in workforce development.”
    “Transporting New Zealand is incredibly grateful for Teletrac Navman’s ongoing support of the Driving Change Diversity Programme and the Road Transport Workforce Report.”
    Caption for the attached graphic:
    Regional Rankings – Mean Truck Driver Income Across New Zealand (according to 2023 Census data)
    1. West Coast
    2. Southland
    3. Waikato
    4. Tasman
    5. Marlborough
    6. Manawatū-Whanganui
    7. Canterbury
    8. Otago
    9. Taranaki
    10. Bay of Plenty
    11. Hawke’s Bay
    12. Auckland
    13. Northland
    14. Nelson
    15. Wellington
    16. Gisborne
    About Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand
    Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand is the peak national membership association representing the road freight transport industry. Our members operate urban, rural and inter- regional commercial freight transport services throughout the country.
    Road is the dominant freight mode in New Zealand, transporting 92.8% of the freight task on a tonnage basis, and 75.1% on a tonne-km basis. The road freight transport industry employs over 34,000 people across more than 4700 businesses, with an annual turnover of $6 billion.
    About Teletrac Navman
    Teletrac Navman’s goal is to empower the industries that transform and sustain our futures with simple and intelligent solutions that enhance the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of their operation.
    As a connected mobility platform for industries that manage vehicle and equipment assets, Teletrac Navman simplifies the complex so that its customers can transform the way they work through cloud-based solutions that leverage AI to unlock the power of operational insight. Teletrac Navman manages more than 700,000 vehicles and assets around the world. The company operates globally, with offices worldwide and headquarters in Northbrook IL. For more information visit www.teletracnavman.com. Teletrac Navman is a Vontier company. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bethlehem Man Who Burglarized Firearms Dealers and Stole More Than 150 Guns Sentenced to 40 Months in Prison

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    The Stolen Weapons Are Being Recovered by Police in Multiple States in Relation to Shootings, Other Crimes

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Ismael Terrero-Terrero, 22, of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Timothy J. Savage to 40 months’ imprisonment and $26,798 in restitution for multiple burglaries in which he stole more than 150 guns from licensed firearms dealers.

    The defendant was charged by indictment in January of 2024, and pleaded guilty this January to three counts of theft of firearms from a federal firearms licensee and one count of possession of a stolen firearm.

    As detailed in court filings, on April 28, 2023, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) was notified of a burglary at a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) in Easton, Pennsylvania. Surveillance video showed that, at approximately 2:40 a.m., the defendant used a pry bar to make entrance into the building and immediately began taking AK-style pistols and AR-style rifles from the wall. He then used the pry bar to break open three glass display cases that contained pistols, placed the guns into a bag, and exited the building with 29 stolen firearms.

    In the early morning hours of June 29, 2023, law enforcement officers were dispatched to an FFL in Catasauqua, Pennsylvania, for a report of a security alarm activation. Surveillance video showed that at approximately 1:35 a.m., the defendant and another man forced entry into the building. They broke the firearm display cases with a metal tool, took handguns from the display case and put them into a backpack. The men then exited the business and fled the scene with 44 stolen firearms.

    On August 11, 2023, at approximately 4:16 a.m., the Telford Police Department (TPD) in Telford, Pennsylvania, received a notification of a burglar alarm activation at an FFL in the borough. Approximately three minutes later, a TPD officer arrived at the location and observed a male with a duffle bag entering the passenger seat of a nearby vehicle, which immediately started to flee from the officer. The officer’s pursuit of the vehicle was terminated a short time later, consistent with TPD policy. Upon examination of the scene and review of video surveillance footage, investigators determined that the defendant and another man had forced entry into the FFL and smashed multiple display cases containing firearms. The men then loaded numerous firearms into a large bag and a rolling suitcase, leaving the store with 82 stolen firearms.

    “This defendant committed three separate burglaries, stealing an astonishing 157 firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “These guns have now found their way into our communities and are being recovered in shootings and other crimes from Connecticut to the Caribbean. Terrero-Terrero was actively putting guns in criminals’ hands and the repercussions will continue, at society’s expense. Public safety demands that we prevent offenders from getting their hands on guns — and punish those providing a steady stream of illegal weapons.”

    “Stolen guns are crime guns that endanger our communities,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF’s Philadelphia Field Division. “Ismael Terrero-Terrero burglarized three Pennsylvania gun shops, stealing more than 150 firearms connected to crimes up and down the East Coast and overseas. Working with the Montgomery County Detective Bureau, Pennsylvania State Police, local police departments, and U.S. Attorney’s Office, this far-reaching and dangerous criminal operation was ended, and the perpetrator is going to prison for years.”

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

    The case was investigated by the ATF and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maureen McCartney.

    MIL Security OSI –