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Current Operations

• Missile attack hits illegal US base in eastern Syria IRNA 10 Jan 2024 -- Some news sources have reported a missile strike on the US military base in eastern Syria.
• US bases in Iraq, Syria come under fresh attacks IRNA 10 Jan 2024 -- Iraqi resistance groups have conducted new attacks on US military bases in that country as well as neighboring Syria as anger boils in the region over the US-backed Israeli war on Gaza.
• Iraq seeks quick exit of US forces: PM IRNA 10 Jan 2024 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has said Baghdad asks the United States to end its military presence in Iraq amid mounting tensions over the ongoing Gaza war.
• U.S.-led coalition in Iraq should only play "training and advising" role: president People's Daily 10 Jan 2024 -- Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid said Tuesday that the U.S.-led coalition's mission in his country should be limited to training and advising Iraqi security forces in accordance with its agreement with the Iraqi government.

Defense Policy / Programs

• AFRICOM Commander visits Chad AFRICOM 10 Jan 2024 -- U.S. Marine Corps General Michael Langley and Sergeant Major Michael Woods from U.S. Africa Command visited Chad on January 9-10, 2024, to discuss security collaboration with Chadian military leaders. During the visit, Langley had the opportunity to congratulate the nation's first female military pilots trained on the C-208 light reconnaissance aircraft.
• Remarks by Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen H. Hicks at the U.S. Space Command (USSPACECOM) Change of Command Ceremony (As Delivered) DoD 10 Jan 2024
• Statement from Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder on Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Health Status DoD 10 Jan 2024
• 26th MEU(SOC) Begins Exercise "Odyssey Encore", a MEU(SOC) MAGTF Readiness Sustainment Exercise USMC News 10 Jan 2024 -- U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, embarked aboard the amphibious warships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, will participate in a MEU Exercise named "Odyssey Encore", in vicinity of Volos, Greece, 6-17 Jan. 2024.
• Department of the Air Force's Office of Special Trial Counsel fully operational US Air Force 10 Jan 2024 -- On Dec. 28, the Department of the Air Force's Office of Special Trial Counsel became fully operational, providing expert, independent and ethical representation of the United States in matters primarily involving victim-based offenses.
• FRCE leading organic manufacturing efforts across Defense Department US Navy 10 Jan 2024 -- When supply chain constraints make it challenging to source parts for aircraft maintained at Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE), the depot's organic manufacturing capabilities allow FRCE to continue to return mission-ready aircraft to the Fleet.
• 26th MEU(SOC) Begins Exercise "Odyssey Encore", a MEU(SOC) MAGTF Readiness Sustainment Exercise US Navy 10 Jan 2024 -- U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), embarked aboard the amphibious warships of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BATARG), will participate in a MEU(SOC) Exercise named "Odyssey Encore", in vicinity of Volos, Greece, 6-17 Jan. 2024. This MEU(SOC) Exercise is a Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) readiness sustainment exercise that ensures the 26th MEU(SOC) retains the advanced skills and operational capabilities necessary to rapidly respond to any crisis or other emergent requirements across the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command region during a scheduled deployment spanning both U.S. Sixth Fleet and U.S. Fifth Fleet areas of operation.
• SECNAV Del Toro Delivers Remarks at the Surface Navy Association 36th National Symposium US Navy 10 Jan 2024
• SECNAV Del Toro Delivers Remarks at the Naval Reactors Change of Command US Navy 10 Jan 2024
• SECNAV Del Toro Names Navy Destroyer for WWII Hero Charles French US Navy Press Release 10 Jan 2024 -- Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced today that the future Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer DDG-142 will be named USS Charles J. French, after Navy Mess Specialist 1st Class Petty Officer Charles Jackson French.
• Hicks: U.S. Aims to Prevent Conflict in Space, Other Domains Through Deterrence DoD News 10 Jan 2024 -- Russia and China are deploying capabilities that can target GPS and other vital space-based systems in an effort to degrade the military space advantage of the U.S. and its allies, said Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks.
• Revamped, Rearmed, Reloaded: Arms That Will Expand Russia's Edge Over NATO in 2024 Sputnik 10 Jan 2024 -- NATO stirred up a hornet's nest when it provoked a proxy war with Russia in Ukraine in 2022, pushing Moscow to overhaul its peacetime military and dramatically increase its size and capabilities. 2023 became the year Russia shattered the myth of NATO weapons' superiority on the battlefield. What does 2024 have in store? Sputnik explores.
• Russia-North Korea Military Cooperation Under UN Spotlight VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- Russia's military cooperation with North Korea to further its war in Ukraine is drawing international condemnation, including at the U.N. Security Council, where Russia is a permanent member.
• Russia's procurement and use of weapons from the DPRK violates UN Security Council Resolutions: joint statement UK FCDO 10 Jan 2024 -- Joint statement by the United Kingdom, France, Japan, Malta, the Republic of Korea, Slovenia, Ukraine, and the United States.
• Zelenskyy: Ukraine Has Stopped Russia but Needs More Air Defense Systems VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Wednesday his country's forces have shown the world that Russia's military can be stopped but the Kyiv government badly needs Western allies to send it more air defense systems to shoot down an increased barrage of incoming Russian drones and missiles.
• NATO-Ukraine Council meets, Allies pledge further air defences NATO 10 Jan 2024 -- The NATO-Ukraine Council met on Wednesday (10 January 2024) following recent waves of heavy Russian airstrikes against Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure. Allies strongly condemned the escalation in Russian air strikes on Ukraine, as well as Russia's use of ballistic missiles sourced from North Korea and drones from Iran.
• Estonia's support to Ukraine Estonia MFA 10 Jan 2024 -- Supporting Ukraine is a long-term foreign policy priority for Estonia. Since the start of Russia's full-scale aggression, Estonia has offered Ukraine political, economic and military assistance, ensured the necessary humanitarian aid, and has begun reconstruction.
• Lithuania's continued assistance to Ukraine transfers to 2024 with new purchase plans Lithuania MND 10 Jan 2024 -- In 2024 the Ministry of National Defence will further render continued military assistance to Ukraine. It will include transfers of the remaining equipment bought and implementation of the procurements started last year. New purchases have been mapped out already with the procedure set to begin in 2024. Lithuania will also continue contributing financially to international funds and carry out training and rehabilitation of Ukraine's military personnel.
• The President: Lithuania is ready to step up military assistance to Ukraine President of the Republic of Lithuania 10 Jan 2024 -- On Wednesday, President Gitanas Nausėda met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine, who has arrived in Lithuania. The Lithuanian and Ukrainian leaders discussed the course of the war in Ukraine, the security and defense situation in the region, as well as military assistance to Ukraine.
• Pentagon Officials Host Chinese Counterparts for High-Level Talks DoD News 10 Jan 2024 -- Senior U.S. and Chinese military officials met at the Pentagon this week for discussions focused on U.S.-China defense relations.
• US and Chinese military officials meet in Washington Radio Free Asia 10 Jan 2024 -- U.S. and Chinese military officials met in Washington this week for their first face-to-face talks in more than two years, as the world's two major powers wade further into a detente after nearly a year of animosity.
• China emphasizes Taiwan question, South China Sea issue in resumed defense policy coordination talks with US Global Times 10 Jan 2024 -- China and the US resumed the previously suspended defense policy coordination talks with a meeting this week, in which the Chinese side stressed its positions on the Taiwan question and the South China Sea issue, as well as maritime and air security issues.
• Australia - General Tomahawk Weapons System Support Services Uplift DSCA 10 Jan 2024 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Australia of General Tomahawk Weapons System Support Services Uplift and related equipment for an estimated cost of $250 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• Air Force enhances anti-submarine warfare capability on Exercise Sea Dragon Australia DOD 10 Jan 2024 -- The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has deployed to Anderson Air Force Base, Guam to participate in the United States Navy-led exercise, Sea Dragon 2024.
• Raksha Mantri & his UK counterpart co-chair UK-India Defence Industry CEOs Roundtable in London India PIB 10 Jan 2024 -- On the second and final day of his visit to the United Kingdom, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh interacted with top UK Defence industry leaders and CEOs at an event in Trinity House, London on January 10, 2024
• Collaborative efforts of BEL and domestic start-ups will contribute to Aatmnirbharta in Defence Production India PIB 10 Jan 2024 -- Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane inaugurated 'Abhigyaan', the state-of-the-art auditorium at the Central Research Laboratory (CRL) of Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Defence Public Service Unit (DPSU) on January 10, 2024 in Ghaziabad, UP
• UK plans to deploy Spearhead Carrier Strike Group to Indian Ocean Region in 2025 UK MOD 10 Jan 2024 -- The UK and India have today vowed to continue strengthening ties during the first visit of an Indian Defence Minister to the UK in more than 20 years.
• Egypt - 28-Meter Patrol Craft Kits DSCA 10 Jan 2024 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Egypt of 28-Meter Patrol Craft Kits and related equipment for an estimated cost of $129 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• Egypt - Light Tactical Vehicle Chassis and Fleet Build DSCA 10 Jan 2024 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Egypt of Light Tactical Vehicle Chassis and Fleet Build and related equipment for an estimated cost of $200 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• A look at the Defence news 1 - 7 January Netherlands Ministry of Defence 10 Jan 2024
• Minister of Defence sends for approval proposal for national designated spatial plan and strategic environmental impact assessment for defence industrial park Estonia MoD 10 Jan 2024 -- Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur signed a proposal for a national designated spatial plan and strategic environmental impact assessment for a defence industrial park.
• Three negative decisions on real estate transactions in Ilomantsi and Sotkamo Finnish MoD 10 Jan 2024 -- On 10 January 2024, Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen issued three negative permit decisions concerning real estate acquisitions by buyers from outside the EU and EEA.
• Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey To Sign Memorandum On Black Sea Demining Operation RFE/RL 10 Jan 2024 -- The defense ministers of Romania, Bulgaria, and Turkey are set to sign an agreement to form a group that will oversee joint demining operations in their territorial waters in the Black Sea, Romanian and Bulgarian officials of countries said on January 10.
• Press Briefing by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and NSC Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby, January 10, 2024 The White House 10 Jan 2024

Defense Industry

• Contracts For Jan. 10, 2024

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News


• 10 January 2024 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 10 Jan 2024

Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood

• Press Briefing by IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari January 10th, 20:15 Israel Defense Forces 10 Jan 2024
• Prime Minister's Office Director General Yossi Shelley Meets with Druze and Circassian Local Council Heads Israel - Prime Minister 10 Jan 2024
• Jan. 9: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Press TV 10 Jan 2024
• Israeli Attacks Kill Dozens in Central, Southern Gaza VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- Israeli attacks killed dozens of people in the Gaza Strip amid new military strikes in central and southern Gaza.
• UNRWA Situation Report #62 on the situation in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem (all information from 7-8 January 2024, is valid as of 7 January 2024 at 22:30) UNRWA 10 Jan 2024
• Aid mission denials are latest threat to Gaza's hospitals: OCHA UN News 10 Jan 2024 -- Repeated refusals by Israeli authorities to allow UN aid teams to deliver desperately needed humanitarian relief inside Gaza have effectively cut off five hospitals in the north from access to "lifesaving medical supplies and equipment", the UN aid coordination office (OCHA) has warned.
• 'Uninhabitable' Gaza: UNRWA says unable to cope with 'unfolding collapse' Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) says the Gaza Strip is becoming an "uninhabitable place" as Israel continues its genocidal aggression against the besieged Palestinian territory.
• WHO says humanitarian, medical situation "dramatically bad" in Gaza People's Daily 10 Jan 2024 -- The World Health Organization (WHO) warned of a humanitarian and health catastrophe in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday as humanitarian space and access to medical services continue to shrink.
• This Week's International Court of Justice Hearings US Dept. of State 10 Jan 2024 -- "The United States recognizes that, as the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) plays a vital role in the peaceful settlement of disputes."
• Secretary Blinken's Meeting with Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa US Dept. of State 10 Jan 2024
• Secretary Blinken's Remarks to the Press US Dept. of State 10 Jan 2024
• Secretary Antony J. Blinken With Andrea Mitchell of NBC News US Dept. of State 10 Jan 2024
• Secretary Blinken's Meeting with Palestinian Authority President Abbas US Dept. of State 10 Jan 2024
• 'We are still against ceasefire': US insists on shedding more blood in Gaza IRNA 10 Jan 2024 -- The White House has reiterated that the US does not support a ceasefire in Gaza, claiming that it would only benefit Palestinian resistance movement Hamas.
• Top Biden advisor held secret talks with Qatari PM on Israeli captives ISNA 10 Jan 2024 -- The US President Joe Biden's top Middle East advisor, Brett McGurk, has met with Qatar's Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdelrahman Al Thani, to discuss Israeli captives amid rising regional tensions.
• Blinken discusses Gaza conflict with Israeli officials during visit People's Daily 10 Jan 2024 -- United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed in Tel Aviv on Tuesday with Israeli officials the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and urged the Israeli side to protect civilians in Gaza.
• Iran says Zionist regime has committed all int'l crimes in Palestine IRNA 10 Jan 2024 -- Iranian foreign ministry said in a statement that the "Zionist regime" has committed all the crimes enshrined in the international conventions against the Palestinian people.
• Iranian, Russian FMs talk Gaza, Red Sea diplomacy ISNA 10 Jan 2024 -- Iran Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian engaged in a telephone conversation with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov concerning various issues on the bilateral relations agenda and regional developments encompassing the latest events in the war on Gaza and the Red Sea situation.
• Iran rebukes US veto power abuse in support of Israel's genocidal war on Gaza ISNA 10 Jan 2024 -- Iran's ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations has rebuked the United States' unconditional support for Israel's genocidal war on Gaza by abusing its veto power against the establishment of a ceasefire in the war-torn besieged territory.
• Iran supports South Africa's filing of ICJ case against Israel over 'genocidal acts' in Gaza Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- Iran has voiced its support for South Africa's decision to file a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over crimes of genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, stating that the Tel Aviv regime has committed a raft of crimes against Gazans in flagrant violation of international conventions.
• Iran rebukes US veto power abuse in support of Israel's 'genocidal' war on Gaza Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- Iran's ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations has rebuked the United States' unconditional support for Israel's genocidal war on Gaza by abusing its veto power against the establishment of a ceasefire in the war-torn besieged territory.
• Why South Africa Has Taken Israel to the World Court VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- South Africa has gone to the ICJ, or International Court of Justice, in The Hague, charging that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. On Thursday and Friday the court will hear arguments from both sides and will then decide whether to issue an interim order that Israel stop its bombardment of Gaza.
• More countries join South Africa's ICJ case against Israel over Gaza genocide Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- More countries have joined South Africa in a case filed against Israel in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over the regime's genocidal war on the besieged Gaza Strip
• Minister Sikorski's call with chief of Israeli diplomacy Poland - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 10 Jan 2024 -- Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski held a phone conversation with his Israeli counterpart, Israel Katz. Key topics of the ministerial consultations included bilateral issues, the situation in the Middle East, and Russia's assault on Ukraine.
• Muslim parliamentary union calls for Israel to be prosecuted for Gaza war crimes Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- A meeting of the Parliamentary Union of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation has called for Israeli leaders to be prosecuted for the regime's crimes against the besieged Gaza Strip, warning that the ongoing situation risks triggering an "unprecedented explosion" in the region.
• 90 percent of Arabs view Oct. 7 al-Aqsa Storm as 'legitimate operation' Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- A new poll, which provides insights into Arab opinion of the Oct. 7 al-Aqsa Storm Operation, shows nearly 90 percent of Arabs view the attack by Hamas against Israel as a "legitimate resistance operation."
• 'Israel forced to leave northern Gaza after failing to achieve its goals' IRNA 10 Jan 2024 -- A senior member of the Palestinian resistance movement, Hamas, has said that the Israeli regime was forced to withdraw from northern Gaza after it failed to achieve its goals during three months of war in the besieged territory.
• Hamas condemns Blinken for 'justifying Israeli genocide' during tour of failure Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has denounced US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's claims that members of Hamas hide behind civilians in the Gaza Strip, saying the unfounded allegations are an attempt to justify Israel's crimes of genocide against Palestinians in the war-torn besieged territory.
• Hezbollah denies its senior commander was killed in Israeli attacks IRNA 10 Jan 2024 -- Lebanon's resistance movement Hezbollah has denied Israeli regime's claims about the assassination of senior resistance commander, saying the commander was never subject to any assassination attempt by the enemy.
• Hezbollah's fighters send a message to Nasrallah ISNA 10 Jan 2024 -- The fighters of the Islamic Resistance in Lebanon address the movement's Secretary-General in a letter, responding to his address to them in his speech on January 5, 2024.
• Israeli strikes targeting leaders of Hamas on Lebanon's soil breach of Intl. law, UN rapporteur warns Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- A top UN human rights official has warned that Israeli strikes targeting leaders of the Palestinian Hamas resistance group on Lebanon's soil are a breach of international law.
• Israel weaker than 'spider web,' desperately relies on US for security: Hezbollah Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- Israel's plea to the United States to return the illegal settlers who fled the occupied territories amid the Gaza war shows that the regime is "weaker than a spider's web," says a senior official of the Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement.
• Security Council strongly condemns Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping UN News 10 Jan 2024 -- The UN Security Council on Wednesday passed a resolution condemning "in the strongest terms" the multiple attacks by Houthi rebels off the coast of Yemen which have disrupted global trade and raised fears of further spillover from the war in Gaza.
• We will not stand by and allow the Houthis to threaten civilian vessels: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 10 Jan 2024 -- Explanation of vote by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen.
• Blinken Warns of Consequences for Continued Houthis Attacks in Red Sea VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, on his latest diplomatic efforts to curb the Gaza war from spreading, warned of "consequences" after Yemen-based Houthi rebels launched their largest yet aerial attack on the Red Sea.
• CENTCOM: Yemeni forces conduct massive operation in Red Sea IRNA 10 Jan 2024 -- United States Central Command (CENTCOM) says the Yemeni army has carried out extensive operations with cruise and ballistic missiles and drones in the south of the Red Sea.
• New 'incident' reported in Red Sea: Western source IRNA 10 Jan 2024 -- The Yemeni armed forces have potentially targeted another Israeli or Israeli-bound ship in the Red Sea, with the British maritime agency confirming an "incident" in the strategic waterway.
• Yemen army targets US vessel in Red Sea IRNA 10 Jan 2024 -- The spokesman for the Armed Forces of Yemen has announced targeting a ship belonging to the United States in the Red Sea.
• Anyone opposing Yemen operations in support of Gaza will face response: Ansarullah Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- Yemen's Ansarullah popular resistance movement vows that any party opposing the Yemeni Armed Forces' anti-Israeli naval operations in support of the Gaza Strip "will face a response."
• Yemeni army launches barrage of missiles, drones at US vessel in Red Sea Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- The Yemeni military says it has fired a barrage of rockets, drones and cruise missiles targeting a US ship in the Red Sea in a "preliminary response" to a recent deadly attack by the US Navy that sank three boats and killed nearly a dozen people off the coast of the Arab country.
• What is the International Court of Justice and why does it matter? UN News 10 Jan 2024 -- The profile of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) was raised in January, following South Africa's decision to bring proceedings against Israel for violating its obligations under the Genocide Convention. Here is a primer on the ICJ, and what it does.

Other Conflicts

• Afghanistan unable to tolerate fresh setbacks: Iran's Foreign Ministry IRNA 10 Jan 2024 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry says that the international community and organizations should recognize that Afghanistan in its current situation cannot tolerate new setbacks.
• Taliban Minister Boasts Afghan Anti-Polio Gains While Addressing Global Health Huddle VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- A senior representative of Afghanistan's Taliban government told a Pakistan-hosted international health conference Wednesday that his country had recorded an increase in mosquito-borne malaria and dengue fever cases, but infections caused by highly contagious poliovirus declined significantly.
• Somali Officials: UN Helicopter Landed in al-Shabab Territory VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- The United Nations said Wednesday that efforts were underway to respond to the U.N.-contracted helicopter that al-Shabab militants captured earlier in the day in Galmudug state.
• Five Police, Civilian Killed In Separate Attacks In Northwest Pakistan RFE/RL 10 Jan 2024 -- Five police officers and a civilian were killed on January 10 in separate attacks in Pakistan's restive northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province bordering Afghanistan, police officials said.
• Syrian Defense Ministry Says Bus Attack South of Palmyra Leaves 8 Soldiers Dead Sputnik 10 Jan 2024 -- The Syrian Defense Ministry said Tuesday that eight service members had been killed, and 13 other people had been injured as a result of a terrorist blast on a bus south of the city of Palmyra in the Syrian governorate of Homs.
• Civilians bear brunt of attacks in northern Sagaing region Radio Free Asia 10 Jan 2024 -- More than 400 civilians clustered in four townships in northwestern Myanmar's Sagaing region have been killed over the past two years by airstrikes, artillery fire, landmines and murder by junta troops, according to data compiled by Radio Free Asia.
• Fighting across western Myanmar kills 4 and displaces 45,000 Radio Free Asia 10 Jan 2024 -- At least three battles raged between Myanmar's junta and the Arakan Army across three western townships on Wednesday, locals told Radio Free Asia.
• POW Group Demands Bosnia Protest Russia Granting Citizenship To War Crimes Suspect RFE/RL 10 Jan 2024 -- An organization representing people who were held in prisoner-of-war camps in Kljuc in northwestern Bosnia during the Bosnian War has demanded that the Foreign Ministry of Bosnia-Herzegovina send a letter of protest to Russia over the granting of citizenship to a former officer of the Yugoslav Army who is wanted in Bosnia for war crimes.

News Reports

• US Condemns Ecuador Violence VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- The United States is condemning escalating violence in Ecuador, after a group of masked men armed with guns and explosives stormed a public television station in the port city of Guayaquil during a live news program and fired shots in the studio.
• At least 10 killed in Ecuador's 'internal armed conflict' Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- At least ten people have been killed in Ecuador's "internal armed conflict" as the new leader launches a campaign against crime in the South American country.
• No Chinese casualties reported so far in Ecuador amid its security crisis: Chinese FM Global Times 10 Jan 2024 -- The Chinese Foreign Ministry has directed the Chinese embassy and consulates in Ecuador to activate the emergency mechanism for consular protection, and there have been no Chinese casualties reported in Ecuador so far, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday in response to the condition of Chinese nationals in Ecuador.
• Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova's comment on the situation in Ecuador Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 10 Jan 2024
• Kirby: Too Soon to Know Whether Ecuador Tensions Will Aggravate US Border Crisis Sputnik 10 Jan 2024 -- White House Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby said on Wednesday that it remains too early to tell whether the crisis in Ecuador will worsen the migration crisis at the US southern border with Mexico.
• Ecuador's Army Chief Designates Criminal Groups Operating in Country as 'Military Target' Sputnik 10 Jan 2024 -- The unrest came as authorities raided prisons in search of weapons and in an effort to disperse gang members to different facilities. During Sunday's search of the Guayaquil prison, law enforcement officials failed to find the leader of the Los Choneros gang, Jose Adolfo Macias Villamar.
• Leader of Ecuador's Second-Largest Gang, Los Lobos, Escapes From Prison Sputnik 10 Jan 2024 -- Fabricio Colon Pico, the leader of Ecuador's second-largest criminal gang, Los Lobos, has escaped from prison as a result of riots, the country's National Service for Comprehensive Assistance to Adult Persons Deprived of Liberty and Teenage Offenders of Ecuador (SNAI) said Tuesday.
• Ecuador's president declares "internal armed conflict" as violence escalates People's Daily 10 Jan 2024 -- Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa on Tuesday declared "internal armed conflict" and mobilized the army to combat organized crime linked to drug trafficking, following an escalation in violence in the South American country.
• House Republicans Aim to Impeach US Homeland Secretary VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- House Republicans held their first impeachment hearing Wednesday against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas over his handling of what they called the crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border.
• Danish court upholds terror, espionage verdicts against three anti-Iran terrorists Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- An appeals court in Denmark has upheld guilty verdicts against three members of the so-called Arab Struggle Movement for the Liberation of Ahvaz (ASMLA) terrorist group convicted of promoting terror in Iran and espionage for the Saudi intelligence service.
• As Europe Weathers Cold Snap, Fears of Russia Power Cutoff Fade VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- The icy Siberian weather now gripping Europe might have sent a chill through European Union capitals a year ago, as they scrambled to wean themselves off another Russian import: energy.
• Navalny Smiles, Jokes At Hearing As Court Rejects His Challenge Over Prison Treatment RFE/RL 10 Jan 2024 -- Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny, in his first court appearance since being moved to a notorious prison in the Arctic, joked and smiled at a hearing on his challenge to how he was being treated in prison, which the judge ultimately rejected.
• Chang'e-6 spacecraft components arrive in Hainan; launch of lunar mission set in first half of 2024 Global Times 10 Jan 2024 -- Spacecraft components of China's Chang'e-6 lunar mission have arrived at Hainan Meilan International Airport aboard the An-124 and Y-20 transport aircraft successively on Monday and Tuesday before they were then transported by road to the Wenchang Space Launch Site, Global Times learned from the China National Space Administration (CNSA) on Wednesday.
• China's Chang'e-6 scheduled for launch in first half of 2024 People's Daily 10 Jan 2024 -- China's Chang'e-6 lunar probe is scheduled for launch in the first half of this year, the China National Space Administration said Wednesday.
• 3 spy cases released as China celebrates its 4th Police Day, honoring contributions to national security work Global Times 10 Jan 2024 -- As the fourth Chinese People's Police Day was celebrated on Wednesday, the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS) released details about three spy cases, honoring the state security officers' contributions to China's counter-espionage security work, which achieved significant progress in 2023.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on January 10, 2024 PRC MofA 10 Jan 2024
• Readout of Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer's Meeting with People's Republic of China Minister of the International Liaison Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China Liu Jianchao The White House 10 Jan 2024
• Readout of Secretary Mayorkas' Meeting with People's Republic of China Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong DHS 10 Jan 2024 -- On January 10, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas held a virtual meeting with the People's Republic of China (PRC) Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong. Senior officials from the Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice, Department of State, National Security Council, White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, and Drug Enforcement Administration also joined the meeting.
• Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's telephone conversation with Foreign Minister of the People's Republic of China Wang Yi Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 10 Jan 2024
• HKSAR new-term district councils showing new atmosphere: chief executive People's Daily 10 Jan 2024 -- Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) John Lee said on Tuesday that it is great to see the new-term District Councils (DCs), which have been in office for over a week, showing a new atmosphere and a new appearance.
• Xi delivers important speech at CCDI plenary session People's Daily 10 Jan 2024 -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivered an important speech at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) on the morning of January 8.
• Interview: Maldives keen to promote cooperation with China, says Maldivian president People's Daily 10 Jan 2024 -- Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has said he intends to promote economic, trade, tourism, investment and cultural cooperation with China during his state visit to the country starting on Monday.
• Greater BRICS cooperation enjoys bright prospects People's Daily 10 Jan 2024 -- The BRICS group officially welcomed Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, and Ethiopia as new members on Jan. 1 this year, doubling its membership from 5 to 10.
• Presidential hopefuls address national affairs as campaign draws to close CNA 10 Jan 2024 -- With only two days remaining until the presidential election, the three candidates weighed in on different issues as they continued campaigning around Taiwan Wednesday.
• US to Send Delegation After Taiwan Election VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- Ahead of the presidential and legislative election on Saturday in Taiwan, where cross-strait relations and how to deal with Beijing's policy toward the self-ruled island are a central theme, Washington announced it will be sending a "high-level unofficial delegation" after the Taiwan election.
• Biden to send delegation to Taiwan after election Radio Free Asia 10 Jan 2024 -- U.S. President Joe Biden will send an "unofficial" delegation of former officials to Taiwan following Saturday's presidential election, a White House official said Wednesday, labeling the practice "nothing new."
• House speaker says U.S. stands with Taiwan in meeting with new envoy CNA 10 Jan 2024 -- In his first official meeting with Taiwan's representative to the United States Alexander Yui (俞大㵢), House Speaker Mike Johnson said the U.S. stands with Taiwan.
• China warns US will 'never compromise' on Taiwan Press TV 10 Jan 2024 -- China has reiterated Beijing's steadfastness regarding Taiwan, telling the United States to stop providing military aid ahead of a key election on the self-ruled island.
• Ma's 'trust' comment about Xi draws rebuke from DPP CNA 10 Jan 2024 -- The ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) on Wednesday described former President Ma Ying-jeou's (馬英九) comment that Taiwan has no choice but to trust Chinese leader Xi Jinping (習近平) on cross-strait relations as a "departure from reality."
• Former KMT lawmaker released on bail in alleged Chinese interference case CNA 10 Jan 2024 -- Former Kuomintang (KMT) lawmaker Chang Hsien-yao (張顯耀) was released on NT$1 million (US$32,129) bail Wednesday after being questioned on suspicion of being involved in cases of Chinese interference in the Jan. 13 elections, according to the Ciaotou District Prosecutors Office.
• Security priorities in Taiwan's presidential election Radio Free Asia 10 Jan 2024 -- On Tuesday, Jan. 9 at around 3 p.m., everybody in Taiwan received a presidential alert via text message, warning them about an imminent satellite launch by China. The text in English, however, reads "Missile flyover Taiwan airspace, be aware."
• China targets Taiwan's temples, Matsu worshippers in influence ops Radio Free Asia 10 Jan 2024 -- All three candidates in Taiwan's forthcoming presidential election have made a point of showing their devotion to the sea goddess Matsu, who is hugely popular on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, amid warnings that the deity is being used as a vehicle for the Chinese Communist Party's United Front operation to influence and persuade the democratic island's 23 million people to accept "peaceful unification."
• Chinese mainland mulls halting tariff cuts on more Taiwan imports People's Daily 10 Jan 2024 -- The Chinese mainland is contemplating suspending tariff concessions for more products imported from Taiwan, in response to the island's trade restrictions and political maneuvering, the mainland's Ministry of Commerce said Tuesday.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Jan. 10, 2023 ROC MND 10 Jan 2024
• N Korea erases 'one people' notion with South, opens door for nuclear use Radio Free Asia 10 Jan 2024 -- North Korea has eliminated the idea of "one people" shared with South Korea from its media outlets, defining the South as a separate entity rather than the "same Koreans," a shift experts said could rationalize the use of nuclear weapons in future conflicts with Seoul.
• Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Inspects Major Munitions Factories KCNA 10 Jan 2024 -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, inspected major munitions factories on January 8 and 9 to learn about the production of weapons and equipment.
• Transcript of Special Briefing by Foreign Secretary on the 10th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit (January 10, 2024) India MEA 10 Jan 2024
• "We see the Century of Türkiye as the greatest legacy we will leave our children" Presidency of The Republic of Turkey 10 Jan 2024 -- Addressing a meeting with governors, President Erdoğan said: "The projects and services we have introduced as well as the progress we have made in terms of development and democracy in the past 21 years are the foundation of the Century of Türkiye. We see the Century of Türkiye, which we will raise upon this strong foundation built by compensating for the century-old neglects, as the greatest legacy that we will leave our children."
• "Türkiye is making a name for itself with its economic, military, diplomatic and intelligence achievements" Presidency of The Republic of Turkey 10 Jan 2024 -- Speaking on the National Intelligence Organization's 97th foundation anniversary, President Erdoğan said: "While we are surrounded by a circle of fire, we are endeavoring both to develop our country and to ensure the security of our state. Amid increasing uncertainty, our country is making a distinguished name for itself with its economic, military, diplomatic and intelligence achievements."
• US Seeks to Build Up Enriched Uranium Supply to End Reliance on Russia Sputnik 10 Jan 2024 -- Russia remains the global leader in the atomic energy industry, despite unprecedented pressure under global sanctions that ended up backfiring at their most ardent proponents.
• Press conference - Cairns Prime Minister of Australia 10 Jan 2024
• World News in Brief: UN helicopter captured in Somalia, Ecuador violence condemned, new Human Rights Council president UN News 10 Jan 2024 -- The UN remains concerned about the fate of personnel travelling on one of its helicopters in Somalia that reportedly was seized on Wednesday by al-Shabaab militants, though no details were provided.
• Why India Welcomes Sheikh Hasina's Return to Power in Bangladesh VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- For India, the return of Sheikh Hasina's Awami League party to the helm in Bangladesh for a fourth consecutive term is a welcome development, according to analysts.
• Demonstrations in Gabon as Regional Blocs Bloc Maintain Sanctions Against Junta VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- Opposition and civil society groups are rallying in support of Gabon's coup leader, after a bloc of Central African states refused to lift the sanctions on Gabon they imposed after the military ousted President Ali Ben Bongo at the end of August.
• Malawi's Maize Import Ban Forces WFP to Mill Grain From Tanzania VOA 10 Jan 2024 -- Despite ongoing food shortages, the government of Malawi last month banned the import of unmilled maize from Kenya and Tanzania, citing concerns about the spread of maize lethal necrosis disease, or MLN. To help keep Malawians fed, the World Food Program has started milling 30,000 metric tons of relief maize. Authorities say the first consignment of the milled grain is expected next week.