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Operations
Defense Policy / Programs
Defense Industry
Other Conflicts
News Reports

Current Operations

• April 13 - 14 Red Sea Update CENTCOM 15 Apr 2024 -- At approximately 7:00 p.m. (Sanaa time) April 13, Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists launched one anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) toward the Gulf of Aden from a Houthi controlled area in Yemen. There were no injuries or damage reported by U.S., coalition, or commercial ships.
• US, UK conduct fresh airstrikes in SW Yemen IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- The United States and Britain have conducted fresh airstrikes on Yemen's southwestern areas.
• Austin Notes Success of Territorial Defeat of ISIS in Iraq DoD News 15 Apr 2024 -- This year marks 10 years of the global coalition to defeat ISIS, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III said today while hosting a meeting and an enhanced honor cordon, to welcome Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to the Pentagon.
• Abbey Gate Supplemental Review Findings CENTCOM 15 Apr 2024 -- In August 2023, the commander of U.S. Central Command directed U.S. Army Central (ARCENT) to conduct supplemental interviews to examine new information made available during public testimony and other public statements in 2023 related to the Aug. 26, 2021, terrorist attack at Abbey Gate outside Hamid Karzai International Airport (HKIA) in Kabul, Afghanistan.
• Kabul Airport Attack Review Reaffirms Initial Findings, Identifies Attacker DoD News 15 Apr 2024 -- A supplemental review of the original investigation into the 2021 suicide bombing attack that killed 13 U.S. service members and roughly 170 Afghan civilians at Hamid Karzai International Airport's Abbey Gate has reaffirmed the military's findings of the initial investigation and identifies the attacker.
• Canadian-Led CTF 150 Conducts Third Drug Interdiction in a Week US Navy 15 Apr 2024 -- The Royal Navy's HMS Lancaster (F229), operating in support of the Canadian-led Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, carried out its second successful drug seizure in as many days, seizing 2,000 kg of hashish from a dhow in the Arabian Sea, April 11.

Defense Policy / Programs

• Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder Holds a Press Briefing DoD 15 Apr 2024
• Pentagon Arctic Policy Official Underscores Critical Role of Alliances in Evolving Region DoD News 15 Apr 2024 -- Partnerships are critical to the United States' strategy for ensuring a stable and secure Arctic region, a senior defense official said today.
• Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call with Bahrain Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa DoD 15 Apr 2024
• Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call With Qatari Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs, His Excellency Dr. Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah DoD 15 Apr 2024
• Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call with Kuwaiti Acting Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Interior, His Excellency Sheikh Fahad Youssef Al-Sabah DoD 15 Apr 2024
• US Army's 12th CAB participates in exercise Saber Strike 24 Army News 15 Apr 2024 -- Seven AH-64 Echo Apache Guardian helicopters, a tactical convoy, and nearly 250 Soldiers assigned to the 1st Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment (Attack Battalion), 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, are participating in Exercise Saber Strike 24, April 8-30, across eastern Europe.
• Building the eye in the sky USMC News 15 Apr 2024 -- Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Training Squadron 2, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, began the assembly of 2nd MAW's first MQ-9A Reaper, April 10, as part of the U.S. Marine Corps' continued transition from the legacy RQ-21A Blackjack in accordance with Force Design initiatives.
• Florida Air Force Reserve group returns to the Tyndall skies US Air Force 15 Apr 2024 -- The 44th Fighter Group, Air Force Reserve, conducted its first flying unit training assembly at Tyndall Air Force Base, April 6, since returning to Tyndall. This training proved valuable for the pilots and maintainers by giving them hands-on experience with F-35A Lightning IIs and their first local sortie since departing Tyndall prior to Hurricane Michael.
• VCNO Interview with Fed Gov Today at Sea Air Space 2024 US Navy 15 Apr 2024
• Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call With German Minister of Defense Boris Pistorius DoD 15 Apr 2024
• Sweden and USEUCOM deepen partnership in cyber defense EUCOM 15 Apr 2024 -- The Swedish Armed Forces and USEUCOM signed a bilateral letter of intent (LOI) outlining a framework for an advanced cyber partnership in Stockholm, Sweden, April 12, 2024.
• Philippines says it will not grant US access to more bases VOA 15 Apr 2024 -- The Philippines says it has no plans to give the United States more access to military bases in the Southeast Asian country, putting a cap on the current total number of nine sites.
• Joint bilateral exercise of Russian and Tajikistan armed forces starts in Tajikistan Russia MoD 15 Apr 2024 -- The opening ceremony of the exercise took place at the Kharb-Maydon mountain-desert training ground in Khatlon region of Tajikistan. The joint bilateral exercise takes place from April 15 to April 18, 2024.
• Zelenskyy calls for same defense from allies as for Israel VOA 15 Apr 2024 -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on Western allies Monday to display the same "unity" toward Ukraine as they did toward Israel when they thwarted an Iranian aerial assault against the Israeli skies over this past weekend.
• Andriy Yermak Discussed Ukraine's Defense Needs with Lockheed Martin Delegation President of Ukraine 15 Apr 2024
• "Shaheds" in the Skies Above Ukraine Sound Identical to Those Over the Middle East - Address by the President President of Ukraine 15 Apr 2024
• Ukraine Will Become NATO Member, Predicts Former NATO Deputy Secretary-General RFE/RL 15 Apr 2024 -- Rose Gottemoeller is a former U.S. diplomat who served as deputy secretary-general of NATO from October 2016 to October 2019. Before that, Gottemoeller served nearly five years as the undersecretary for arms control and international security at the U.S. State Department. During that time, Gottemoeller, a specialist in Russian defense and nuclear issues, was the chief U.S. negotiator of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) with Russia.
• UK Defence Minister affirms support to Black Sea security UK MOD 15 Apr 2024 -- The UK's commitment to European security was reaffirmed by Defence Minister Minto on a visit to Bulgaria today (15 April).
• UK Defence Minister speech at Black Sea Security Conference 2024 UK MOD 15 Apr 2024 -- Defence Minister, The Earl of Minto, addressed the Black Sea Security Conference in Bulgaria.
• Defence investment creates 50 new jobs for South Australia Australia DOD 15 Apr 2024 -- Dozens of local jobs will be created in South Australia through a new contract to upgrade the Royal Australian Air Force's fleet of P-8A Poseidon aircraft.
• INDIAN ARMY CONTINGENT DEPARTS FOR INDIA- UZBEKISTAN JOINT MILITARY EXERCISE DUSTLIK India PIB 15 Apr 2024 -- The Indian Army contingent departed today for the 5th edition of India- Uzbekistan joint military Exercise DUSTLIK
• Iraq - C-172 and AC/RC-208 Aircraft Contractor Logistics Support DSCA 15 Apr 2024 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Iraq of C-172 and AC/RC-208 Aircraft Contractor Logistics Support and Training and related equipment for an estimated cost of $140 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Remarks Welcoming Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to the Pentagon DoD 15 Apr 2024
• Joint Statement From Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani DoD 15 Apr 2024 -- Today at the Pentagon, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III welcomed Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani during his first visit to Washington, D.C. as Prime Minister.
• Joint Statement on the U.S.-Iraq Higher Coordinating Committee US Dept. of State 15 Apr 2024 -- The following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and the Republic of Iraq.
• Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Muhammad Ali Tamim Co-chair a U.S.-Iraq Higher Coordinating Committee Meeting US Dept. of State 15 Apr 2024
• Joint Statement from the Leaders of the United States and the Republic of Iraq The White House 15 Apr 2024
• Remarks by President Biden and Prime Minister Mohammed Shyaa al-Sudani of the Republic of Iraq Before Bilateral Meeting The White House 15 Apr 2024
• Biden meets Iraqi PM amid escalating Mideast tensions VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- As U.S. President Joe Biden hosted Iraq's prime minister Monday, all eyes were on Iran, which over the weekend made a historic first strike on Israel.
• President Radev: Modernisation of the Armed Forces Requires Not only Acquisition of Equipment, but also Development of Infrastructure President of the Republic of Bulgaria 15 Apr 2024 -- The President and Commander-in-Chief Rumen Radev discussed the development of modern defence capabilities of the Bulgarian Armed Forces in the context of the challenges facing the changed global security environment at a meeting with NATO Assistant Secretary General Angus Lapsley, who is visiting Bulgaria.
• EU Military Committee: General Brieger visits Hungary European External Action Service (EEAS) 15 Apr 2024 -- On 11 and 12 April, the Chairman of the EU Military Committee, General Brieger visited Budapest, Hungary.
• Defence Minister Gram's speech on the new Defence Pledge Government of Norway 15 Apr 2024
• Data on interceptions of aircraft completed near the Baltic States' borders on April 8-15, 2024 Lithuania MND 15 Apr 2024
• Readout of President Biden's Meeting with Prime Minister Petr Fiala of the Czech Republic The White House 15 Apr 2024
• Statement by National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on the House's Bipartisan Vote to Reauthorize of FISA Section 702 The White House 15 Apr 2024

Defense Industry

• Contracts For April 15, 2024

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News



Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood

• Press Briefing by IDF Spokesperson, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, April 15, 2024 Israel Defense Forces 15 Apr 2024
• April 14: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Press TV 15 Apr 2024
• Humanitarian aid increasing in Gaza, but US wants it sustained VOA 15 Apr 2024 -- Humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip has increased substantially in the last few days, White House national security spokesman John Kirby said Monday, but the United States needs to see that aid sustained, he added.
• Gaza: rights experts condemn AI role in destruction by Israeli military UN News 15 Apr 2024 -- As UN chief António Guterres on Monday reiterated his appeal for "maximum restraint" in the Middle East following Iran's drone and missile attack on Israel, independent human rights experts said that the alleged use of artificial intelligence on targets in Gaza by the Israeli military had taken an "unprecedented toll" on civilians, housing and services.
• West Bank Violence US Dept. of State 15 Apr 2024 -- "We strongly condemn the murder of 14-year-old Israeli Binyamin Achimair and extend our sympathies to his family and friends."
• Gaza talks to resume soon: US administration official ISNA 15 Apr 2024 -- Captives exchange discussions between Israel and the Palestinian resistance, Hamas are set to begin as soon as this week, despite a small delay caused by Iran's retaliatory strike, a senior US administration official said on Sunday.
• Iran criticizes UK's 'astonishing' support for Israeli crimes in Gaza Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian has criticized Britain's extensive support for Israel even as the regime continues to kill innocent Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
• Israeli warplanes target southern Lebanon IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- The Zionist regime has reportedly conducted fresh attack on areas in southern Lebanon as tensions remain high between the Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement and Israel over the war on Gaza.
• Hezbollah launches missile attacks on 4 Zionist military bases IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- Lebanese Hezbollah fighters has targeted the "Al-Radar" base and three other military bases of the occupying regime, as well as the north of the occupied Palestinian territories.

Other Conflicts

• 'Two Israeli air bases struck by Iranian missiles' IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- At least nine Iranian missiles, which Israeli air defense failed to intercept, struck two of the regime's air bases and caused damage, a senior American official told ABC News.
• Iran launches coordinated retaliatory strikes on Israel, heightening fears of broader regional war People's Daily 15 Apr 2024 -- Iran and allied armed groups launched coordinated drone and missile strikes on Israel late Saturday night in retaliation for a deadly assault on the Iranian consulate in Syria about two weeks ago. The escalation has further heightened fears of a wider regional war as a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip remains elusive.
• At Least 9 Iranian Missiles Hit 2 Targeted Israeli Airbases - Reports Sputnik 15 Apr 2024 -- At least nine Iranian missiles have hit two of Israel's airbases during the recent attack, damaging infrastructure, ABC News reported on Sunday, citing an unnamed senior US official.
• PM Netanyahu Speaks with US House of Representatives Majority Leader Steve Scalise Israel - Prime Minister 15 Apr 2024
• Israel determined to retaliate after Iran's aerial barrage VOA 15 Apr 2024 -- Israel appears determined to exact a measure of revenge against Iran, just days after the Iranian military and some of its allies across the Middle East launched an unprecedented aerial assault on the Jewish state.
• Israel lifts all precautionary restrictions after Iranian attack: army People's Daily 15 Apr 2024 -- The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said early Monday that all restrictions it put in place shortly before Iran's overnight attack on Saturday have been lifted.
• Following Iran's retaliatory strikes, opposition leader blames Netanyahu, calls him 'existential threat to Israel' Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has vehemently rebuked Benjamin Netanyahu over his far-right administration's failure to confront Iran's retaliatory strikes on the occupied territories.
• Gallant Told Austin Israel 'Has No Choice' But to Strike Against Iran - Reports Sputnik 15 Apr 2024 -- Israel Defense Minister Yoav Gallant spoke over the weekend with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and informed him that Israel has no choice but to attack Iran in response to the latter's retaliatory drone and missile strike on Saturday night, Axios reported on Monday, citing a US official and a source in the know.
• Netanyahu Asks IDF to List Target Options in Iran to 'Send Message' - Reports Sputnik 15 Apr 2024 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to list a possible targets in Iran to send a "message" to Tehran without causing casualties, The Washington Post reported on Monday.
• Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call with Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant DoD 15 Apr 2024
• Biden says to oppose any Israeli counterattack against Iran -- media People's Daily 15 Apr 2024 -- U.S. President Joe Biden told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a call on Saturday that the United States will oppose any Israeli counterattack against Iran, U.S. news portal Axios reported, citing a senior White House official.
• Biden reiterates "ironclad" support for Israel after Iran's attack People's Daily 15 Apr 2024 -- U.S. President Joe Biden reiterated Saturday his nation's "ironclad" support for Israel, shortly after a meeting with his national security team to discuss the Iranian attack on Israel.
• US House under pressure to urgently act on 'war-time' aid for Israel Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- US House Speaker Mike Johnson has come under immense pressure to secure "war-time aids" to Israel, in the wake of Iran's weekend retaliatory attacks against the occupied territories.
• UNSC discusses Iran's retaliatory strikes on Israeli targets IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has held an emergency session on Sunday local time at the request of the Zoinist regime after Iran's retaliatory attacks against the regime in the occupied territories.
• 'On The Brink': Leaders Call For Restraint As World Awaits Israeli Response To Iran Attack RFE/RL 15 Apr 2024 -- Leading diplomats and politicians across the globe, fearing another major escalation of fighting in the Middle East, urged restraint as the world waited for Israel's response after it endured an unprecedented air attack by Iran over the weekend.
• Israel's response may trigger dangerous cycle of retaliatory strikes with Iran Global Times 15 Apr 2024 -- The eyes of the world are fixed on Israel as it contemplates its response to Iran's retaliatory attacks following Israel's bombing of the Iranian embassy buildings. Chinese experts warn that Israel's response could trigger a dangerous cycle of retaliatory strikes between the two countries, destabilizing the Gulf region and worsening the overall security situation in the Middle East. However, a full-scale war between Israel and Iran is not imminent, they predicted.
• China calls for restraint after Iran's retaliatory attack on Israel People's Daily 15 Apr 2024 -- A Chinese envoy on Sunday called for calm and restraint after Iran's retaliatory attack on Israel over the latter's deadly assault on the Iranian consulate in Syria.
• EU Statement on the Iranian drone and missile attacks against Israel Government Offices of Sweden 15 Apr 2024
• EU, G7 leaders urge preventing escalation in Mideast People's Daily 15 Apr 2024 -- European Union (EU) and Group of Seven (G7) leaders on Sunday called for preventing a further escalation of the situation in the Middle East following Iran's retaliatory strikes on Israel.
• The UK condemns unequivocally Iran's reckless attack against Israel: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 15 Apr 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council briefing on Iran's attack against Israel, 14 April 2024.
• PM statement to the House of Commons on Iran's attack on Israel: 15 April 2024 Gov.UK 15 Apr 2024 -- Prime Minister Rishi Sunak made a statement to the House of Commons on Iran's attack on Israel.
• Former U.S. National-Security Adviser Says Strong Israeli Response To Iran Attack Would Be Justified RFE/RL 15 Apr 2024 -- Former U.S. national-security adviser John Bolton says Israel is entitled to retaliate against Iran for its weekend attack, including destroying its nuclear weapons program, and stands by his comment that President Joe Biden is "an embarrassment" for urging Israel not to respond.
• Iranian UN mission: Time has come to hold Israel accountable ISNA 15 Apr 2024 -- Iran's representative to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, confirmed that the Iranian operation came within the framework of self-defense and as permitted by international law, and only targeted military sites to avoid civilian targets, in contrast to what Israel did in Syria.
• Iran's retaliatory attack against Israel 'necessary, appropriate': FM spokesman Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- Iran's retaliatory operation against Israel was a "necessary and proportionate" action taken in defense of the country's national security, says Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan'ani.
• Army chief vows 'stormy' response to any aggression against Iran IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- Iranian Army Chief Commander Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi has warned that Iran is prepared to deliver a "stormy and united" response to any form of aggression against the nation.
• Armed Forces warn Israel, Western supporters against crossing Iran's red lines Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- Iran's Armed Forces have warned the Israeli regime and its Western backers against crossing the Islamic Republic's red lines.
• Iran will exact 'devastating, unified' revenge on enemy for any act of aggression: Army chief Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- The Iranian Army Chief Commander Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi says the country will not hesitate to give a "stormy and unified" response to any act of aggression against it.
• Amirabdollahian says Iran has never been seeking regional escalation IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- Noting that Iran has never been seeking to escalate tensions in the region, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian has said that the Zionist regime has seemingly misinterpreted Iran's restraint.
• Iran's attack against Zionist regime warning not to cross red lines: Amirabdollahian IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian in a phone call with his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock has termed the purpose of the Islamic Republic of Iran in conducting the attack against Israel as a warning to the Israeli regime to understand the consequences of crossing Iran's red lines.
• Iran tells Russia it will react decisively to any Israeli provocation IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian has said that Iran's limited operation was aimed at deterring, punishing, and warning the Zionist regime, and if this regime makes another move against Iran, it will face a very strong response.
• 'Iran had no choice but to punish Zionist regime' IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- In a telephone conversation with the European Union foreign policy chief, the top Iranian diplomat made it clear on Sunday that his country had no other option but to punish the Zionist regime for its aggression within the framework of Iran's legitimate defense.
• Iranian, Syrian FMs discuss regional developments IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- Foreign ministers of Iran and Syria have held a phone conversation, discussing bilateral ties and the latest developments in the region following Iran's attack on the Zionist regime in response to its strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus earlier in April.
• Iran to respond to any fresh Israeli mistake 'within seconds': Deputy FM Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- Iran's deputy foreign minister has warned that the Islamic Republic would respond to any fresh Israeli "mistake" against the country "within seconds."
• Iran: White House warned about consequences of repeated Israeli adventurism Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian says Iran has warned the United States about potential consequences of repeated Israeli military adventurism against the Islamic Republic.
• Iran's anti-Israel operation redefined regional balance of power: FM Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian says drone and missile attacks carried out by the Iranian Armed Forces last week against the Israeli regime "redefined the balance of power in the West Asia region."
• Tel Aviv knows Tehran's next retaliation will be more 'decisive': Iran UN envoy IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- The ambassador and permanent representative of the Islamic Republic to the United Nations (UN) has announced that Iran's second retaliation against Israeli attack will be "most decisive."
• Iran reaffirms commitment to int'l law, opposition to regional tensions IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- The Islamic Republic does not seek tensions in the region and is committed to international law and regulations, says Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani.
• 'Iran has legitimate right to self-defense against Israeli regime' IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- Iran's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani has defended his country military actions against the Zionist regime, saying the operation was completely in line with the Islamic Republic's inherent right to self-defense.
• 'Ten times stronger': Iran warns Israel of much harsher response if evil actions continue Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) has warned of a "much harsher response" against any further action by Israel in the aftermath of the Islamic Republic's retaliatory operation into the occupied territories.
• Israel will receive 'reciprocal, extensive' response if continues adventurism: Iran foreign minister Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian says Israel will receive an immediate and extensive response if it continues its adventurous acts against the Islamic Republic.
• Any Israeli response will be met with a harsher, stronger one: Raisi ISNA 15 Apr 2024 -- Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi emphasized that through Operation Truthful Promise, the Iranian armed forces taught the Zionist enemy a lesson, stressing that a new reckless response from the enemy would be met with a harsher and stronger response.
• Israel 'main source of insecurity' in West Asia: Iran's foreign minister Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian has denounced Israel as the root cause of insecurity gripping West Asia.
• Drones and missiles used in Iran's operation against Israel IRNA 15 Apr 2024 -- The Iranian anti-Israel unprecedented airstrike, dubbed Operation True Promise, has hit specific targets in the occupied territories with suicide drones and ballistic plus cruise missiles.
• Russia slams UNSC for ignoring attack on Iranian consulate ISNA 15 Apr 2024 -- During an emergency United Nations Security Council meeting on Sunday, Russia's Permanent Representative, Vassily Nebenzia, condemned the Council's inaction regarding the Israeli attack on the Iranian consulate in Syria, while also calling for an end to bloodshed in the Middle East.
• Statement on Tensions in the Middle East Region Philippines DFA 15 Apr 2024 -- The Philippines expresses its serious concern over the increasing tensions between Israel and Iran.
• Marcos says Duterte struck 'secret' deal with Beijing on South China Sea Radio Free Asia 15 Apr 2024 -- Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said Monday he was convinced that his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, had entered into a questionable "secret agreement" with Beijing on the South China Sea, while maintaining there was no record of its existence.
• Yemen's plight echoes broader Middle East crisis, says UN Envoy UN News 15 Apr 2024 -- As tensions worsen across the Middle East region, Yemen's plight has become increasingly intertwined with wider geopolitical dynamics, the UN Special Envoy for the country said on Monday.
• Reckless Houthi actions continue to undermine efforts to bring peace to the Yemeni people: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 15 Apr 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen.
• Red Sea Crisis, Gaza Conflict Pose Threat to Progress, Stability in Yemen, Speakers Tell Security Council UN Security Council 15 Apr 2024 -- While April 2024 marks two years since the United Nations-brokered truce — providing relief for the humanitarian situation long past its expiry — the crisis in and near the Red Sea continues to threaten progress and stability in Yemen, senior United Nations officials warned the Security Council today, as some delegates noted Iran's role in supporting the Houthis and destabilizing the region.
• Vietnam mulls own territorial line in Tonkin Gulf Radio Free Asia 15 Apr 2024 -- Hanoi authorities are considering a baseline marking Vietnam's territory in the Gulf of Tonkin, Radio Free Asia has learned.
• Junta shelling, airstrikes kill 25 Rohingyas in Myanmar's Rakhine state Radio Free Asia 15 Apr 2024 -- At least 25 ethnic Rohingya civilians were killed and thousands forced to flee their homes amid junta airstrikes and heavy artillery over the weekend in western Myanmar's Rakhine state, according to residents.
• Water festival attacks kill 3 during Myanmar coup leader's holiday Radio Free Asia 15 Apr 2024 -- Missile attacks on two universities in a holiday town in Myanmar killed three and injured eight, residents told Radio Free Asia on Monday.
• 'Concerted global push' for Sudan ceasefire is essential: Guterres UN News 15 Apr 2024 -- "The world is forgetting about the people of Sudan" the UN chief warned on Monday, calling for a boost in humanitarian funding and a global push for peace to end a year of brutal fighting between rival militaries.
• Sudan catastrophe must not be allowed to continue: UN rights chief Türk UN News 15 Apr 2024 -- A full year of conflict in Sudan has already caused immense suffering and death but the situation could easily worsen with the news that the warring parties are arming civilians, UN rights chief Volker Türk said on Monday.
• Canada provides funding for Sudan and neighbouring countries at international conference in Paris to address humanitarian crisis Canada 15 Apr 2024 -- The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan has reached the one-year mark with no end in sight, resulting in a grave breach of international peace and security and gross and systematic violations of human rights.
• Canada provides funding for Sudan and neighbouring countries at international conference in Paris to address humanitarian crisis Canada 15 Apr 2024 -- Canada is deeply concerned by the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan, which was exacerbated by the outbreak of conflict in April 2023 and has displaced more than 6.5 million people within the country and has forced another 1.8 million to flee to neighbouring countries.
• Humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa: Switzerland increases aid for people in Sudan Federal Council - Swiss Government 15 Apr 2024 -- At the international donors' conference on 15 April 2024 in Paris, Switzerland pledged CHF 19 million to mitigate the humanitarian consequences of the conflict in Sudan. As a result of the ongoing hostilities over the past year, the country is experiencing one of the worst humanitarian disasters of our time. To date, 8.6 million people have been displaced, and the country is on the brink of a devastating famine. From the beginning of the crisis, Switzerland has been actively engaged at multiple levels to help end the conflict and improve the situation on the ground.
• EU commits €896 million in total humanitarian and development funding for Sudan European Commission 15 Apr 2024 -- One year since the outbreak of conflict in Sudan, the EU co-hosted today with France and Germany the International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and neighbouring countries.
• Speech by Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock at the Paris Sudan conference Germany Federal Foreign Office 15 Apr 2024
• Joint statement on one year of war in Sudan Government of Norway 15 Apr 2024 -- Statement from the Minister of International Development, Anne Beathe Tvinnereim and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Espen Barth Eide.
• ICRC President: "The obstacles that block humanitarian access must be immediately overcome" ICRC 15 Apr 2024 -- Speech given by Mirjana Spoljaric, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, at the Humanitarian Conference on Sudan and neighboring countries, in Paris.
• WHO Director-General's remarks at the International humanitarian conference for Sudan and its neighbours WHO 15 Apr 2024
• El-Fasher clashes raise concerns of expanding conflict in Sudan's Darfur Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- Fierce clashes have erupted in and around Darfur's El-Fasher which had been relatively calm since the war erupted in Sudan last year between the army and a rival paramilitary force, raising fears of a further expansion of the conflict.
• Statement by the High Commissioner on Sudan, Paris UNHCR 15 Apr 2024 -- The war in Sudan has caused one of the largest humanitarian and displacement crises in the world. Yet, it remains tragically invisible.
• Sweden and UNHCR spotlight impact on South Sudan after a year of Sudan conflict UNHCR 15 Apr 2024 -- UNHCR's Deputy High Commissioner, Kelly T. Clements, and Sweden's State Secretary for International Development Cooperation, Diana Janse, have concluded a joint visit to South Sudan, where they witnessed the impact of one of the world's most complex and challenging humanitarian crises a year since the start of the conflict in neighbouring Sudan.
• UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Ted Chaiban remarks at the International Conference for Sudan and the Neighbouring Countries UNICEF 15 Apr 2024
• Statement by the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, to mark one year of conflict UNOCHA 15 Apr 2024 -- Today marks one year since brutal fighting erupted in Sudan. Over the last year, Sudan has become one of the world's worst humanitarian tragedies in recent memory and one of the largest internal displacement crises globally. Famine now looms.
• Secretary-General's remarks at press encounter on Sudan UN Secretary-General 15 Apr 2024
• Macron says donors pledge $2.1 billion in aid for Sudan VOA 15 Apr 2024 -- French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday that world donors have pledged $2.1 billion to help relieve the humanitarian crisis in war-ravaged Sudan.
• The Netherlands makes an additional €10 million available for humanitarian aid to Sudan Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 Apr 2024 -- The Netherlands is making an additional €10 million available for emergency aid to Sudan.
• Deputy Minister Anna Radwan-Röhrenschef takes part in International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan Poland - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 Apr 2024 -- Organised at the initiative of France, Germany and the European Commission, the event was held in Paris on 15 April and followed up on the debates in Geneva in June 2023, in New York in September 2023, and in Cairo in November 2023.
• Sudanese farmers strive for food sufficiency as conflict rages VOA 15 Apr 2024 -- Today marks one year since the war between Sudan's army and its paramilitary wing, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), began. The war has created widespread hunger, as fields lay uncultivated and aid agencies struggle to reach millions of Sudanese displaced from their homes. Despite the challenges, some farmers are getting support from a British aid organization.
• Haiti: Statement by the Spokesperson on the establishment of a Transitional Presidential Council European External Action Service (EEAS) 15 Apr 2024 -- Following the publication of the official decree setting out the procedure for the establishment of a Transitional Presidential Council (TPC) in Haiti, it is now crucial that the TPC is formally appointed without further delay by the outgoing government of Prime Minister Ariel Henry. This will also allow the appointment of a new Prime Minister by the TPC.
• Srebrenica To Rename Its Streets...Without Any Mention Of The Genocide RFE/RL 15 Apr 2024 -- Ethnic Serb members of the municipal council in Srebrenica have voted to rename many of the city's streets to commemorate Serb war victims while ignoring the 1995 massacre of 8,000 Bosniak men and boys.
• Press Statement on Colombia following United Nations Security Council Colombia Session April 2024 UN Security Council 15 Apr 2024 -- The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Vanessa Frazier (Malta):

News Reports

• Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to Prison for Torture and Illegally Exporting Weapons Parts and Related Services to Iraq US Dept. of Justice 15 Apr 2024 -- A Pennsylvania man was sentenced today to 70 years in prison for torturing an Estonian citizen in 2015 in the Kurdistan region of Iraq and for the illegal export of weapons parts and related services.
• Meeting of India-France Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism India MEA 15 Apr 2024 -- The 16th Meeting of India-France Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism was held in New Delhi on 15 April 2024.
• Pro-Russian hacking group paralyzes website of North Korea's airline Radio Free Asia 15 Apr 2024 -- A pro-Russian hacking group said it attacked and paralyzed the website of North Korea's state-owned Air Koryo and later posted a mocking message on the Telegram messaging app about the airline's inadequate cybersecurity standards.
• 'The Best' For Putin: How The Kremlin Stands To Gain From Iran's Attack On Israel RFE/RL 15 Apr 2024 -- After several hours of silence following Iran's unprecedented missile-and-drone attack on Israel, Russia issued its first formal reaction: The Foreign Ministry voiced what it said was Moscow's "extreme concern" over "the latest dangerous escalation in the region."
• Nearly 125,000 Evacuated Due To Floods In Kazakhstan, Russia RFE/RL 15 Apr 2024 -- Almost 125,000 people have been evacuated from areas hit by massive floods in parts of Russia and Kazakhstan where water levels continue to rise in several regions.
• Tens of thousands displaced as floods engulf Kazakhstan, Russia Press TV 15 Apr 2024 -- More than 125,000 people have been displaced as floods engulfed swathes of northern Kazakhstan and Russia's Urals region.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian's Regular Press Conference on April 15, 2024 PRC MofA 15 Apr 2024
• Assistant Secretary Kritenbrink's Meetings in Beijing, the People's Republic of China (PRC) US Dept. of State 15 Apr 2024 -- Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Kritenbrink and National Security Council Senior Director for China and Taiwan Affairs Sarah Beran held meetings with PRC officials in Beijing April 14-16.
• Chinese FM expresses solemn position regarding US' actions to advance 'Indo-Pacific Strategy' targeting China, urging the US to stop bloc confrontation Global Times 15 Apr 2024 -- The Chinese Foreign Ministry blasted the US' recent actions to advance the "Indo-Pacific Strategy" targeting China, as well as the country's wrongful statements and actions in China's surrounding areas, especially its attempts to form a small clique with Japan and the Philippines and disrupt the situation in the South China Sea. China again urged the US not to engage in bloc confrontation or disrupt peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.
• German chancellor promotes fair competition, warns against overproduction during China visit VOA 15 Apr 2024 -- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is calling for fair competition in trade with China while urging the European Union to not adopt protectionist policies against Beijing. The bloc has been considering tariffs amid concerns about Chinese goods being dumped on European markets and overproduction.
• Hong Kong's prosperity 'can't be talked down by a few articles or some noises,' senior Chinese official says Global Times 15 Apr 2024 -- Hong Kong has bid farewell to its turbulent recent past and completely ended the history of being unguarded in safeguarding national security. With the protection of national security laws, it is the best time for Hong Kong to fully focus on the economy and seek development, a senior Chinese official on Hong Kong affairs said on Monday.
• HK celebrates first National Security Education Day after legislation of Article 23 Global Times 15 Apr 2024 -- China's Central government official Xia Baolong kicked off a high-profile opening ceremony of an event in Hong Kong Special Administration Region (HKSAR) marking the 10th anniversary of a holistic approach to national security on Monday when the city celebrated the first National Security Education Day after legislation of Article 23.
• Hong Kong loses 10,000 civil servants amid political crackdown Radio Free Asia 15 Apr 2024 -- Hong Kong's civil service has hemorrhaged more than 10,000 employees in recent years, in the wake of a city-wide crackdown on public dissent that has forced them to censor what they say on social media and take an oath of loyalty to Beijing.
• Report: Chinese authorities impose collective punishments on families of detained dissidents VOA 15 Apr 2024 -- A U.S.-based human rights organization says Chinese authorities have been "collectively punishing" families of human rights defenders in recent years, warning that the persecution appears to be part of a "state policy."
• Tabletop exercise highlights financial security during war CNA 15 Apr 2024 -- Taiwan's government should take precautions to prevent a financial blockade by international banks and ensure that it has enough capital to purchase wartime necessities, according to the results of a tabletop exercise released Monday.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Apr. 15, 2024 ROC MND 15 Apr 2024
• 11 Chinese aircraft cross Taiwan Strait median line or extension: Ministry CNA 15 Apr 2024 -- A total of 11 People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait or its extension in the 24-hour period starting at 6 a.m. Sunday, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense said Monday.
• Former North Korean Official Indicted on Sanctions Evasion, Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud, and Money Laundering Charges US Dept. of Justice 15 Apr 2024 -- An indictment was unsealed today charging a former North Korean official serving in Thailand, Myong Ho Ri, with conspiracy to violate U.S. economic sanctions bank fraud, and international money laundering.
• Iran Takes Legal Action Against Analyst, Newspaper Over Criticism Of Israel Attack RFE/RL 15 Apr 2024 -- Iran's judiciary has initiated legal proceedings against the Tehran-based Etemad newspaper and political analyst Abbas Abdi over comments related to the Islamic republic's interactions with Israel, according to the Mizan News Agency.
• IAEA chief: Inspectors briefly halted work in Iran amid regional tensions VOA 15 Apr 2024 -- The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency said Monday that his teams briefly halted inspections of Iranian nuclear facilities this week amid regional tensions between Israel and Iran.
• Iraqis fear Israeli retaliation after Iran attack VOA 15 Apr 2024 -- Iraq, perhaps unsurprisingly, is a hotbed of gallows humor.
• Minister Joly meets with Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya Canada 15 Apr 2024
• Sanctions in response to ongoing human rights violations in Belarus Canada 15 Apr 2024 -- Effective immediately, Canada is imposing sanctions on 21 individuals who are involved or complicit in ongoing human rights violations in Belarus since the fraudulent presidential election of 2020.
• Minister Joly announces sanctions in response to ongoing human rights violations in Belarus Canada 15 Apr 2024 -- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada is imposing sanctions on 21 individuals under the Special Economic Measures (Belarus) Regulations. These sanctions are in response to the ongoing human rights violations in Belarus since the fraudulent presidential election of 2020.
• Designating Belarusian Networks US Dept. of State 15 Apr 2024 -- The United States is today designating one entity and five individuals for facilitating sanctions evasion for a major Belarusian defense enterprise; six revenue generating state-owned enterprises; and five entities and five individuals involved in a global arms network connected to a U.S.-designated Belarusian defense firm.
• Treasury Targets Belarusian Sanctions Evasion Networks and Cogs in Russia's War Machine US Treasury 15 Apr 2024 -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is designating 12 entities and 10 individuals pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 14038. This action builds on U.S. sanctions imposed in response to Belarus's fraudulent August 2020 election, as well as President Alyaksandr Lukashenka's (Lukashenka) support for Russia's illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Today's action sustains U.S. financial pressure on the Lukashenka regime for its continuing support for Russia's war against Ukraine and the financial benefit it derives from this activity.
• Lee Hsien Loong to relinquish office People's Daily 15 Apr 2024 -- Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said he will relinquish the office on May 15, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office Monday.
• Crumbling roads, rising prices: Solomon Islands election highlights frustrations, flashpoints Radio Free Asia 15 Apr 2024 -- John Palmer says he got a wheelbarrow, a small solar panel and a sheet of corrugated roofing after voting for his member of parliament two elections ago in 2014.
• Solomon Islands election to test pro-China leader's hold on power Radio Free Asia 15 Apr 2024 -- The upcoming Solomon Islands election will decide if Manasseh Sogavare, its combative, pro-Beijing prime minister can secure a consecutive term and entrench the Pacific island country's recent shift into China's orbit.
• Wider Europe Briefing: Kosovo Could Finally Get In The Council Of Europe RFE/RL 15 Apr 2024
• World News in Brief: 'Reckless attacks' on Ukraine nuclear plant must cease, Chibok abductions 10 years on, action against plant pests UN News 15 Apr 2024 -- A recent spate of "reckless attacks" on the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in Ukraine must end immediately, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) told the UN Security Council on Monday.
• Landsbergis meets with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands: "Europe's future is decided in Ukraine today" Lithuania MFA 15 Apr 2024 -- On April 15, Lithuania's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gabrielius Landsbergis, met with the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hanke Bruins Slot. The Foreign Ministers discussed defence and security, the strengthening of NATO's eastern flank, support for Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East, topical issues of the EU, and bilateral relations.