• Military Menu                       

• Introduction
• Systems
• Facilities
• Agencies
• Industry
• Operations
• Countries
• Hot Documents
• News
• Reports
• Policy
• Budget
• Congress
• Links

• WMD
• Intelligence
• Homeland Security
• Space

Operations
Defense Policy / Programs
Defense Industry
Other Conflicts
News Reports

Current Operations

• Israel, U.S., Partners Neutralize Iranian Airborne Attacks DoD News 16 Apr 2024 -- Last weekend, Iran and its proxy groups launched more than 300 airborne weapons at targets in Israel, but the U.S., Israeli and partner forces destroyed a significant portion of them before they reached their targets.
• April 16 USCENTCOM Conducts Humanitarian Air Drop into Gaza CENTCOM 16 Apr 2024 -- U.S. Central Command conducted an air drop of humanitarian assistance into Northern Gaza on April 16, 2024, at 11:57 a.m. (Gaza time) to provide essential relief to civilians affected by the ongoing conflict.
• April 16 Red Sea Update CENTCOM 16 Apr 2024 -- Between 10:50 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. (Sanaa time) on April 16, U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) forces successfully engaged two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) in Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist-controlled areas in Yemen.
• U.S. Navy Aircraft Transits the Taiwan Strait US Navy 16 Apr 2024 -- A U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon transited the Taiwan Strait in international airspace on April 17 (local time).

Defense Policy / Programs

• Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call With People's Republic of China (PRC) Minister of National Defense Admiral Dong Jun DoD 16 Apr 2024
• Austin Meets Virtually With Chinese Defense Minister for First Time DoD News 16 Apr 2024 -- Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III held his first engagement with Adm. Dong Jun, defense minister of China, today via video teleconference at the Pentagon.
• Under Biden, US reimagines Asian alliances as 'lattice' fence VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- For decades, U.S. policy in Asia has relied on what was informally known as the "hub and spokes" system of bilateral alliances. But lately, U.S. officials have used another analogy to describe their vision for the region: a lattice fence.
• Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder Holds a Press Briefing DoD 16 Apr 2024
• DOD Supports U.S.-Wide Partner and Ally-Focused Global Health Security Strategy DoD 16 Apr 2024 -- Today, President Joe Biden released the 2024 United States Government Global Health Security Strategy, outlining the nation's whole of government approach to strengthening global health security to protect American lives and livelihoods by improving U.S. and other countries' capacities to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease outbreaks at their source.
• U.S. Air Force conducts Bomber Task Force Mission to Türkiye EUCOM 16 Apr 2024 -- Two U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancers flew from their deployed location at Morón Air Base, Spain, to Incirlik Air Base, Türkiye, April 15, 2024 as part of a long-planned, routine training mission conducted under Bomber Task Force 24-2.
• US Navy Depletes $1Bln Worth of Weapons in Middle East in 6 Months - Secretary Del Toro Sputnik 16 Apr 2024 -- The US Navy needs to replace about $1 billion worth of munitions that it used to combat attacks on Red Sea shipping and defend Israel over the last six months, Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro said in testimony to the Senate Appropriations Committee on Tuesday.
• Michigan National Guard enhances capabilities through alliance with Swedish air force US Air Force 16 Apr 2024 -- The Michigan National Guard hosted members of Headquarters U.S. Air Force and the Swedish air force at the National All Domain Warfighting Center April 3-4, solidifying a significant step towards bolstering transatlantic military collaboration. This visit occurred just a month following Sweden's accession into the North Atlantic Treaty Organization March 7, marking a pivotal moment in the alliance's expansion.
• Indian Navy Carries Out First Drug Interdiction as CMF Member US Navy 16 Apr 2024 -- The Indian Navy Ship INS Talwar, operating in support of the Canadian-led Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, conducted its first interdiction of illicit narcotics as a member of Combined Maritime Forces, seizing 940 kg of drugs in the Arabian Sea, April 13.
• DOD Awards $14.4 Million to Sustain and Enhance the Space-Qualified Solar Cell Supply Chain DoD 16 Apr 2024 -- The Department of Defense today announced an award of $14.4 million via the Defense Production Act Investment (DPAI) Program to 5N+ Semiconductors (5N Semi) to sustain and expand the capability to produce germanium substrates used in solar cells for defense and commercial satellites.
• ASD Space Policy Remarks for the 16th Ronald Reagan Missile Defense Conference "Missile Defense in an Era of Strategic Competition" DoD 16 Apr 2024 -- As prepared for delivery by John Plumb, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space Policy
• Defense Officials Say Continued Investments in Missile Defense Are Critical Amid Evolving Threats DoD News 16 Apr 2024 -- Senior Pentagon officials underscored today the imperative for continued investments in missile defense and deterrence capabilities as U.S. adversaries increasingly seek to extend their offensive reach and threaten to upend global peace and stability.
• Russia Unveils New Ovod-10 FPV-Drone Sputnik 16 Apr 2024 -- The special military operation has served as a catalyst for innovation in the Russian defense industry. Companies have been inspired to develop new ideas and technological solutions that significantly benefit soldiers on the frontline.
• Ukraine running out of missiles to fight Russia: Zelensky Press TV 16 Apr 2024 -- Ukraine says the Western camp is not giving Kiev enough of its missiles to defeat Russia.
• Ukraine Will Request a Meeting of the Ukraine - NATO Council - Address of the President of Ukraine President of Ukraine 16 Apr 2024
• Security Agreement with Spain: Ukraine Held a New Round of Negotiations President of Ukraine 16 Apr 2024
• US Army Secretary Says Ukraine Running 'Very Low' on Patriot Interceptors Sputnik 16 Apr 2024 -- Ukraine is in dire need of ammunition and running "very low" on Patriot interceptors amid a stalemate in Congress regarding the supplemental bill with additional aid for Kiev, US Army Secretary Christine Wormuth said on Tuesday.
• Submarine program chief reportedly offers resignation CNA 16 Apr 2024 -- Huang Shu-kuang (黃曙光), a retired admiral who heads Taiwan's Indigenous Defense Submarine (IDS) program and serves as an adviser to the National Security Council (NSC), has recently submitted his resignation, according to local media reports.
• Albanese Government investing in crucial estate works in Enoggera Australia DOD 16 Apr 2024 -- The Albanese Government is investing in critical infrastructure upgrades to support accommodation and facilities at Brisbane's Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera.
• Millions in grants to help industry deliver priority capabilities for Defence Australia DOD 16 Apr 2024 -- Eight cutting-edge small to medium-sized businesses delivering priority capabilities for Defence will be boosted by grants totalling $3.47 million from the Albanese Government.
• Australia supports the 2024 Solomon Islands Joint Elections Australia DOD 16 Apr 2024 -- Australia is supporting Solomon Islands in the conduct of its upcoming Joint Elections on 17 April 2024, including through investment in logistics, operations and training, Australian election observers and the deployment of additional police and defence personnel.
• HMCS Max Bernays arrives in its new homeport Esquimalt, British Columbia Canada 15 Apr 2024 -- Today, His Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Max Bernays arrived in its new homeport in Esquimalt, British Columbia.
• South Korea cautiously optimistic about US-Japan military upgrades VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- South Korea is cautiously optimistic about alliance upgrades that the U.S. and Japan have planned to bolster security in East Asia and the Indo-Pacific region.
• Landsbergis: "The deployment of the German brigade to Lithuania will mark a qualitative leap in relations between our countries" Lithuania MFA 16 Apr 2024 -- On April 16, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, Gabrielius Landsbergis, met with the first arrivers from the German brigade, who came to Lithuania last week. Lithuania's Foreign Minister emphasised that deploying the German brigade to Lithuania was the Government's priority.
• Lithuanian public institutions and Germany's Rheinmetall sign a Memorandum of Understanding on an ammunition production site in Lithuania Lithuania MND 16 Apr 2024 -- On April 16 Lithuanian institutions and German company Rheinmetall signed a Memorandum of Understanding concerning constructions of an ammunition factor in Lithuania.
• International Arms Dealers Charged with Conspiring to Unlawfully Export Weapons and Ammunition from the United States to Sudan and Iraq US Dept. of Justice 16 Apr 2024 -- An indictment was unsealed yesterday charging Syria national Mohamad Deiry and Lebanese national Samer Rayya, both principals of an Iraq-based arms company, Black Shield Ltd., with conspiring to export munitions from the United States to Sudan and Iraq without the necessary licenses and approvals, in violation of the Arms Export Control Act. Additionally, Deiry and Rayya were charged with conspiring to commit money laundering in furtherance of their illicit procurement activities.
• Secretary Blinken's Meeting with Maltese Foreign Minister Borg US Dept. of State 16 Apr 2024
• Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg Before Their Meeting US Dept. of State 16 Apr 2024
• Secretary Blinken's Call with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani US Dept. of State 16 Apr 2024
• Press Gaggle by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby En Route Avoca, PA The White House 16 Apr 2024

Defense Industry

• Contracts For April 16, 2024

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News


• 16 April 2024 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 16 Apr 2024

Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood

• April 15: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Press TV 16 Apr 2024
• UN says Israel unlawfully restricting Gaza aid VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- Israel is placing "unlawful restrictions" on humanitarian aid going into and being distributed in the Gaza Strip, the United Nations human rights office said Tuesday.
• Humanitarians locked in aid delivery 'dance' to avert famine in Gaza UN News 16 Apr 2024 -- Scaling up assistance in Gaza remains a challenge in the face of continued access denials, delays and other impediments, the head of the UN humanitarian affairs office (OCHA) in the occupied Palestinian territories said on Tuesday.
• Gaza: No let up in deadly toll as rights chief demands end to suffering UN News 16 Apr 2024 -- Nearly 10,000 women have been killed in Gaza since war erupted six months ago and one child is injured or dies every 10 minutes, UN agencies warned on Tuesday, amid spiralling violence in the West Bank and concerns over a regional escalation of the conflict following Iran's missile and drone strike on Israel.
• UNRWA Situation Report #101 on the situation in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem - All information from 8 - 14 April 2024, is valid as of 14 April 2024 at 22:30 UNRWA 16 Apr 2024
• Armed conflict incidents impacting UNRWA facilities and displaced persons seeking shelter in the Gaza Strip UNRWA 16 Apr 2024-Since the start of the war on 7 October 2023, people forced to flee their homes across the Gaza Strip have sought safety and protection under the United Nations (UN) flag, primarily in UNRWA premises
• Statement by Catherine Russell, UNICEF Executive Director, following her two-day visit to the Middle-East UNICEF 16 Apr 2024
• Children disproportionately wearing the scars of the war in Gaza - Geneva Palais briefing note UNICEF 16 Apr 2024
• UN demands end to Israel's support for settler attacks on Palestinians Press TV 16 Apr 2024 -- The United Nations has voiced grave concern over escalating violence in the occupied West Bank.
• Israel keeps 'unlawful' restrictions on Gaza aid in place, UN warns Press TV 16 Apr 2024 -- Israel keeps in place the restrictions on a trickle of humanitarian aid entering the besieged Gaza Strip, the United Nations has warned.
• Saudi Arabia, Pakistan call for cease-fire in Gaza VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- Saudi Arabia and Pakistan jointly called for a cease-fire in Gaza on Tuesday, with Saudis urging de-escalation in the region without mentioning Iran's recent strike on Israel.
• Israel/Palestine: Statement by the Spokesperson on increased settler violence and recent killings in the West Bank European External Action Service (EEAS) 16 Apr 2024 -- The European Union is gravely concerned about the worsening situation in the occupied West Bank where settler violence, intimidation, and destruction of homes and property have continued to steeply rise over the past few days after the murder on 12 April, of an Israeli teenager. We condemn all attacks against civilians, including the reported killings of four Palestinians.
• Solidarity and political talks: Foreign Minister Baerbock travels to Israel once again Germany Federal Foreign Office 16 Apr 2024 -- With its major attack on Israel last Saturday, Iran has brought the Middle East to the brink. Following Israel's successful defensive measures, the aim now is to prevent a conflagration from taking hold in the region.
• Two Palestinians killed in West Bank amid drastic rise in settler attacks Press TV 16 Apr 2024 -- Israeli settlers have killed two Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, according to Palestinian officials and witnesses, after a weekend of escalating violence across the territory.
• UK statement on violence in the Occupied West Bank UK FCDO 16 Apr 2024 -- Statement from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) on escalating violence in the Occupied West Bank.
• Hamas Rejects All Clauses of Gaza Ceasefire Agreement Sputnik 16 Apr 2024 -- Palestinian movement Hamas has rejected all clauses of the latest hostage deal proposal, increasing the number of Palestinian prisoners, who have to be released by Israel as part of the agreement, Israeli newspaper reported on Tuesday, citing a senior Israeli official.
• Israeli Air Force Kills Hezbollah Coastal Sector Commander in Lebanon Attack - IDF Sputnik 16 Apr 2024 -- An Israeli Air Force (IAF) strike killed a commander of the Hezbollah movement's coastal sector in southern Lebanon on Tuesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said.
• 150 rockets fire from southern Lebanon to occupied territories IRNA 16 Apr 2024 -- The Zionist regime's sources announced on Tuesday night that a total of 150 rockets were fired from southern Lebanon at the bases of the Israeli army in northern occupied Palestine.
• Hezbollah hits Israeli missile defense system with drone IRNA 16 Apr 2024 -- Lebanon's Hezbollah has conducted drone attacks against Israeli positions and hit the regime's missile defense system in Beit Hillel military base in northern occupied territories.
• Zionists not returning to northern occupied territories for fear of Hezbollah IRNA 16 Apr 2024 -- The Zionist Channel 12 reported that the Zionists are not thinking of returning to northern occupied territories due to the fear of Lebanon's Hezbollah.

Other Conflicts

• 'Nightmare Scenario': The Risks Of Escalation As Israel Mulls Iran Response RFE/RL 16 Apr 2024 -- Iran's unprecedented attack on Israel has put the Middle East in uncharted territory.
• Israeli defense minister: Iran's threats will not deter response to Iranian aerial assault VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- Israel's defense minister said Tuesday Iran's threats will not deter his nation from responding to Sunday's unprecedented aerial attack on the Jewish state.
• Netanyahu steps up Iran rhetoric amid waning support IRNA 16 Apr 2024 -- Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of the Zionist regime has stepped up his anti-Iran rhetoric and calls for the international unity to confront Tehran despite facing denunciations worldwide over the Gaza genocide and the recent attack on the Iranian embassy in Syria.
• Israeli intelligence community failed to predict Iran's retaliation: Zionist newspaper IRNA 16 Apr 2024 -- The Israeli regime's newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth reported that the regime's intelligence community did not expect a direct response from Iran when they were deciding on an attack on the Iranian consulate in Syria.
• How Iranian missiles and drones evaded Israel's much-hyped air defenses Press TV 16 Apr 2024 -- Iran's retaliation against the Israeli attack on its consulate in Syria was not totally unexpected. However, the meticulous planning and massive scale of the attack marked a watershed moment and the beginning of the end of the occupying regime.
• PM call with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel: 16 April 2024 Gov.UK 16 Apr 2024
• China's top diplomat talks with Iranian, Saudi counterparts, highlighting 'Beijing's commitment in de-escalating Iran-Israel tension' Global Times 16 Apr 2024 -- China's top diplomat Wang Yi held phone talks with his Iranian and Saudi counterparts Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud separately on Monday regarding the tensions between Israel and Iran, and the wider situation in the Middle East. Chinese experts emphasized that Beijing's recent actions demonstrate its commitment to playing a constructive role in de-escalating tensions in the Middle East and maintaining stability in the Gulf region.
• Israel's top general vows response to Iran's "unprecedented" attack People's Daily 16 Apr 2024 -- Herzi Halevi, chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces, stated on Monday that a response is imminent following Iran's "unprecedented" missile and drone attack on Israel.
• Blinken seemingly urges restraint from Israel in first public remarks after Iran attack People's Daily 16 Apr 2024 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken sent a veiled message Monday to Israel, urging the country to act with restraint in a potential response to the attack launched by Iran over the weekend.
• Crushing response awaits any aggression on Iran: Armed Forces spox IRNA 16 Apr 2024 -- The Senior Spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi has advised the US, the UK, France, and Germany to halt advocating the Zionist regime in advancing its criminal acts.
• Operation True Promise manifested interoperability of Iran's Army, IRGC: Top general Press TV 16 Apr 2024 -- Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Baqeri says the Islamic Republic's retaliatory strikes on the Israeli-occupied territories manifested a high level of cooperation and interoperability between Iran's Army and the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC).
• Iran 'Operation True Promise' further debunks Israel's invincibility myth: Commander Press TV 16 Apr 2024 -- Commander of the Iranian Army's Ground Force Brigadier General Kioumars Haydari says Iran's retaliatory operation against Israel has further dispelled the threadbare myth that the wicked and child-killing Tel Aviv regime is unbeatable.
• Zionists will come to know Iran's real response if they make a mistake: Raeisi Press TV 16 Apr 2024 -- Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi says the Zionists controlling the regime of Israel will only come to know the true scale and intensity of Iran's military response if they decide for a new attack on Iran.
• Slightest act against Iran's interests will be met with 'painful response': President Raeisi Press TV 16 Apr 2024 -- President Ebrahim Raeisi has warned that any slightest action against Iran's interests will be met with an "extensive and painful response."
• FM: Iran targeted origin of attack on Iran's diplomatic mission in Syria IRNA 16 Apr 2024 -- In a phone call with his Japanese counterpart, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said that Iran's very precise and calculated military action against military and intelligence bases was the source of the attack on Iran's diplomatic mission in Damascus.
• FM reviews legitimate response to Israeli attack on Iran's consulate with counterparts IRNA 16 Apr 2024 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian in separate calls with his regional counterparts as well as the chiefs of the United Nations and the European Union discussed Iran's recent legitimate response to the Israeli regime.
• Iran FM says legitimate self-defense, punishing Israel was only option IRNA 16 Apr 2024 -- Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian has said that carrying out the defensive operation and punishing the Zionist regime was the only option left for Iran.
• Iran hit Israeli military, intelligence bases linked to Syria attack: FM Press TV 16 Apr 2024 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian has highlighted the "precise and calculated" nature of Operation True Promise, during which Israeli military and intelligence bases linked to the attack on Iran's diplomatic premises in Syria were targeted.
• Telephone conversation with President of Iran Ebrahim Raisi President of Russia 16 Apr 2024 -- Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Ebrahim Raisi at the Iranian side's initiative.
• Putin Discusses Middle East Escalation With Iranian President Raisi in Phone Call - Kremlin Sputnik 16 Apr 2024 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and discussed the situation in the Middle East after the Israeli strike on the Iranian diplomatic mission in Damascus, the Kremlin said on Tuesday.
• Putin: Iran's retaliatory attack on Israel best way to punish aggressor Press TV 16 Apr 2024 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says Iran's "tactful and wise" response to Israeli aggression on its consulate in Syria was the best way to punish the aggressor.
• Russian president hails Iran's response to Zionist aggression IRNA 16 Apr 2024 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has appreciated Iran's response to a last week Zionist attack against Iran's consular building in Damascus, describing the measure as the best way for punishing the aggressor and indicative of the tact and rationality of Iranian leaders.
• Attack on Iranian embassy violated int'l rules: Chinese FM IRNA 16 Apr 2024 -- China has reiterated its stance on the latest developments in the West Asia region and once again condemned the Israeli attack on the Iranian embassy in Damascus, calling it the violation of international principles and rules.
• Statement by National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Holding Iran Accountable for Unprecedented Attack on Israel The White House 16 Apr 2024
• Yellen warns of new sanctions against Iran following attack on Israel VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- Iran's weekend attack on Israel and monetary support for militant groups in Gaza, Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq could have far-reaching economic impacts in the region and beyond, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said Tuesday.
• EU To Begin Work On Expanding Sanctions Against Iran As Israeli War Cabinet Meets Again RFE/RL 16 Apr 2024 -- EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell says he will request that the EU's diplomatic service start work on an expansion of sanctions in response to Tehran's weekend attack on Israel.
• China engages with Iran, Israel and Saudi Arabia on Iran-Israel tensions Global Times 16 Apr 2024 -- Following Iran's retaliatory attacks against Israel for bombing Iranian embassy buildings, the Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi initiated intensive communications with regional parties to prevent further escalation in the Middle East, calling to avoid the situation from further escalating.
• Libyan leaders must put national interests above their own, top envoy tells Security Council UN News 16 Apr 2024 -- Efforts to foster dialogue and address the concerns of Libyan politicians are being met with "stubborn resistance, unreasonable expectations and indifference" on their part, contrary to the national interest, the UN envoy to the North African nation said on Tuesday.
• Security Council Hears Briefings on Situation in Libya UN Security Council 16 Apr 2024 -- The Security Council met this morning on the situation in Libya. Briefing the Council was Abdoulaye Bathily, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya and Head of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya. The Council also heard from the representative of Japan as Chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011).
• The political impasse in Libya is unsustainable: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 16 Apr 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Libya.
• Myanmar junta attacks garrison in bid to rescue stranded soldiers Radio Free Asia 16 Apr 2024 -- Myanmar's junta launched an airstrike Tuesday on a military garrison in Kayin state that rebel forces captured last week and attempted to rescue dozens of its former occupants who had been sheltering near the country's border with Thailand, according to Thai soldiers and residents.
• Myanmar junta soldiers surrender in ethnic army's first Tanintharyi win Radio Free Asia 16 Apr 2024 -- Nearly 50 junta soldiers surrendered to an ethnic armed group in southern Myanmar, its political wing announced on Tuesday
• UN chief says attacks against civilians in Sudan could amount to 'war crimes, crimes against humanity' Press TV 16 Apr 2024 -- UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres says indiscriminate attacks against civilians in Sudan could amount to "war crimes and crimes against humanity," as the conflict between the Sudanese army and a rival paramilitary force has entered its second year.
• UN Secretary-General Guterres' April 8 Negative Assessment of Preconditions for Elections in South Sudan US Dept. of State 16 Apr 2024 -- UN Secretary-General Guterres' April 8 letter, in which he enumerated over a dozen critical preconditions necessary to hold genuine and peaceful elections that the South Sudan transitional government has yet to meet, is a clear message to the Security Council.
• Nigeria's Tinubu says country will no longer pay ransom to armed gangs VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- Nigeria will no longer pay ransom to armed gangs that have plagued the country with kidnapping and extortion, President Bola Tinubu said in an opinion piece published Monday.
• Ethiopia High-level Pledging Event: Joint Communiqué by the Co-Hosts (16 April 2024) UNOCHA 16 Apr 2024
• Geneva conference raises nearly $630 million for Ethiopia's humanitarian needs VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- A high-level pledging conference in Geneva co-sponsored by Ethiopia, Britain and the United Nations received $628.9 million in pledges to provide lifesaving humanitarian assistance for millions of Ethiopians suffering from the ill effects of conflict and climate change. It was seeking $1 billion.
• Geneva conference pledges $630 million in life-saving help for Ethiopia UN News 16 Apr 2024 -- Ethiopia's international partners convened in Geneva on Tuesday to address the urgent need for increased humanitarian funding for the crisis-hit country, pledging a total of almost $630 million.

News Reports

• China urges U.S. to immediately stop cyberattacks against China People's Daily 16 Apr 2024 -- China urges the United States to immediately stop its cyberattacks against China and stop smearing China, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday.
• Select Committee Unveils Findings into CCP's Role in American Fentanyl Epidemic House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party 16 Apr 2024 -- Following a months-long investigation, Chairman Mike Gallagher (R-WI) and Ranking Member Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party revealed their findings of the Chinese Communist Party's role in the deadly fentanyl epidemic that has killed hundreds of thousands of Americans.
• China facilitating, subsidizing US fentanyl crisis, says House committee VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- The U.S House committee on China said Tuesday that the Chinese government is seeking to fuel the fentanyl epidemic in the United States by subsidizing precursors, or substances necessary to make the drug and other synthetic opioids.
• Statement from President Joe Biden on the Release of the Global Health Security Strategy The White House 16 Apr 2024
• FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠Harris Administration Releases Strategy to Strengthen Global Health Security The White House 16 Apr 2024
• Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks during a meeting of the United Russia General Council's Commission on International Cooperation and Support for Compatriots Abroad, Moscow, April 16, 2024 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Apr 2024
• Press Release: Notice on the Continuation of the National Emergency and of the Emergency Authority Relating to the Regulation of the Anchorage and Movement of Russian-Affiliated Vessels to United States Ports The White House 16 Apr 2024
• Message to the Congress on the Continuation of the National Emergency and of the Emergency Authority Relating to the Regulation of the Anchorage and Movement of Russian-Affiliated Vessels to United States Ports The White House 16 Apr 2024
• More Evacuations Ordered in Russia Amid 'Colossal' Flooding RFE/RL 16 Apr 2024 -- Russian officials continued to order the evacuation of areas in Siberia and parts of the south as massive floods sparked by heavy rains and a rapid snowmelt show few signs of letting up.
• China's spy agency encourages people to see spies everywhere Radio Free Asia 16 Apr 2024 -- China's top spy agency is cranking up its propaganda campaign warning of foreign "spies" to mark National Security Education Day, in a bid to get more people to inform on each other and steer clear of anything linked to the West, analysts said this week.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian's Regular Press Conference on April 16, 2024 PRC MofA 16 Apr 2024
• READOUT: Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen's Bilateral Meeting with the Leadership of the U.S.-People's Republic of China Economic and Financial Working Groups US Treasury 16 Apr 2024 -- U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen met with the Economic Working Group (EWG) and Financial Working Group (FWG) on April 16.
• Blinken to target China's support for Russia during G7, China visit VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken left for Capri, Italy, on Tuesday night for a Group of Seven foreign ministers meeting, where he will discuss Washington's concerns about China's support for Russia's defense industrial base, the State Department said.
• The Federal Chancellor's visit to China - "Joint sustainable action" Germany - Federal Government 16 Apr 2024 -- Federal Chancellor Scholz visited China for the second time during his time in office. In addition to business relations, the visit focussed on geopolitical challenges and sustainability strategies. On the last day of his trip, Scholz met with the President of State Xi Jinping.
• China-Germany cooperation not 'risk' but opportunity: Xi Global Times 16 Apr 2024 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday called on both China and Germany to view and develop bilateral relations from a long-term and strategic perspective, and work together to inject greater stability and certainty into the world. Xi made the remarks during a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who concluded his three-day China visit in Beijing after leading a grand delegation to Chongqing and Shanghai.
• At 12, China-central and eastern Europe group faces growing pains VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- Next week, China will mark the 12th anniversary of a group for central and eastern European countries it established to grow its influence in the EU. But when it does, there will be no high-level activities or celebrations to mark the group's creation.
• Chinese security presence in the Pacific comes into focus ahead of major political events VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- China's growing security presence in the Pacific will be scrutinized this week as the Solomon Islands holds its national election on Wednesday. While the Pacific island nation has been plagued by a slew of domestic issues such as youth unemployment and weakening health and education systems, some analysts say the election is a "de-facto referendum" on its relationship with China.
• Chinese FM, embassy, HKSAR govt slam UK's 'six-monthly report' Global Times 16 Apr 2024 -- The Chinese Foreign Ministry, the Chinese Embassy in the UK and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government have firmly refuted the UK's recent so-called six-monthly report on Hong Kong, which disregarded the facts and grossly interfered in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs.
• Hong Kong marks key education day on safeguarding national security People's Daily 16 Apr 2024 -- The Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) on Monday kicked off the opening ceremony of the 2024 National Security Education Day at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center.
• US lawmakers relaunch Uyghur caucus Radio Free Asia 16 Apr 2024 -- The Congressional Uyghur Caucus is back.
• China's economy off to good start in Q1, up by 5.3%, defying 'Peak China' rhetoric Global Times 16 Apr 2024 -- China's GDP growth rate beat market expectations to reach 5.3 percent year-on-year in the first quarter, kicking off a good start to the year and laying a strong foundation for achieving the annual development targets.
• Chinese localities urged to ensure timely completion, delivery of real estate projects Global Times 16 Apr 2024 -- Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng emphasized the importance of timely completion and delivery of real estate projects to buyers to protect their legitimate rights and interests during his property sector inspection tour in Zhengzhou, Central China's Henan Province from Saturday to Sunday, a signal that the country aims to facilitate the stable and sound development of the real estate market.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Apr. 16, 2024 ROC MND 16 Apr 2024
• No evidence Iran is building nuclear weapons: IAEA chief IRNA 16 Apr 2024 -- The Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) says there is no proof Iran has built nuclear weapons, acknowledging that even the recent tensions in the region have not disrupted the agency's monitoring of Iran's nuclear sites.
• Iran's oil output up 630,000 bpd y/y in Jan-March: Report IRNA 16 Apr 2024 -- The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) has announced in its latest report that Iranian oil production has surpassed 3,250 million barrels per day (bpd), indicating that Iran's oil production increased by 630,000 bpd year-on-year from January to March.
• Wave Of Complaints Follows Police Hijab Crackdown In Tehran RFE/RL 16 Apr 2024 -- The stricter enforcement of the mandatory hijab law by Tehran police has prompted a wave of complaints from Iranians who say police are using aggressive and sometimes violent tactics in their treatment of alleged violators.
• Denmark closes embassy in Iraq Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark 16 Apr 2024 -- After the withdrawal of the Danish force protection personnel and the national support element from NATO Mission Iraq (NMI), the Danish government has decided to close the Danish embassy in Baghdad, Iraq.
• Myanmar's junta moves Aung San Suu Kyi to house arrest, report says Radio Free Asia 16 Apr 2024 -- Myanmar's military junta moved Aung San Suu Kyi, the country's former de facto leader, from Naypyidaw Prison to house arrest on Tuesday, Yangon-based Eleven Media reported.
• Minister Joly meets with Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya Canada 15 Apr 2024
• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Opposition Leader of Belarus Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya Prime Minister of Canada 15 Apr 2024 -- Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Opposition Leader of Belarus, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya.
• Visit of Saudi Foreign Minister to Pakistan Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Apr 2024 -- Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud led a ministerial delegation on an official visit to Pakistan from 15-16 April 2024.
• Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Investment Conference held in Islamabad Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Apr 2024 -- The high-level Saudi delegation led by His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, attended the 'Saudi Arabia-Pakistan Investment Conference' held in Islamabad today.
• Foreign Affairs Council: Press remarks by High Representative Josep Borrell after the meeting European External Action Service (EEAS) 16 Apr 2024
• Solomon Islands observes campaign blackout ahead of election Radio Free Asia 16 Apr 2024 -- Noisy, colorful parades brought traffic to a standstill in the Solomon Islands capital Honiara on the last day of election campaigning as thousands also left the city on ships and ferries to vote in hometowns and villages across the archipelago.
• Solomon Islands heads into consequential elections VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- The Solomon Islands is heading into a consequential election on Wednesday as the people vote for their next government, the outcome of which could impact the region thanks to the country's relationship with China.
• Police In Tbilisi Begin Clearing Away Protesters Against 'Foreign Agents' Bill RFE/RL 16 Apr 2024 -- Riot police in the capital of Georgia began clearing protesters from an entrance to the parliament building as they moved to break up a demonstration against a bill aimed at designating certain groups as foreign agents.
• Zimbabwe's new gold-backed currency sliding on black market VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- Zimbabwe's recently introduced gold-backed currency is sliding on the local black market but officials insist the currency is getting stronger and has a bright future. Columbus Mavhunga reports from Harare.
• Venezuelan embassies, consulates closed in Ecuador following Mexican embassy raid VOA 16 Apr 2024 -- Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Tuesday he ordered the closure of his country's embassy and consulates in Ecuador. The move follows a raid ordered by Ecuador's president earlier this month on the Mexican embassy in Quito.