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Operations
Defense Policy / Programs
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Other Conflicts
News Reports

Current Operations

• Iraqi Security Forces Target, Kill Multiple Senior ISIS Members, with Support from CJTF-OIR Forces CENTCOM 23 Oct 2024 -- During the early morning of Oct. 22, Iraqi Security Forces (ISF), enabled by Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR), conducted strikes and follow on raids on multiple ISIS locations in Central Iraq, targeting several senior ISIS leaders and killing at least seven ISIS operatives.
• US defense system in Syria comes under attack IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- The US defense system in Deir Ezzor province, eastern Syria, has been targeted by a missile attack.

Defense Policy / Programs

• DOD Kicks Off Groundbreaking Applied Research Project in Hypersonic Infrared Targeting Sensing DoD 23 Oct 2024 -- The Department of Defense (DoD) today announced the Hypersonic Infrared Target Sensing (HITS) joint-service proposal as the winner of the fiscal year 2025 Applied Research for the Advancement of S&T Priorities (ARAP) Program award competition.
• Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Meeting With His Holiness Pope Francis at the Vatican DoD 23 Oct 2024
• Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III On-Camera, On-the-Record Remarks to Traveling Press in Rome, Italy DoD 23 Oct 2024
• V Corps, NATO strengthen integration at Territorial Defense Forces Symposium II Army News 23 Oct 2024 -- U.S. Army V Corps and Allies convened for a second Territorial Defense Forces Symposium Oct. 21-22, 2024, in Krakow, Poland. Participants defined the roles and responsibilities among Baltic and other NATO nations during large-scale combat operations in northern Europe.
• 100 percent inventory of 12,000 pieces of equipment underway at APS-2 Powidz Army News 23 Oct 2024 -- Now that operations are underway at the newest, most modern Army Prepositioned Stocks worksite in the world, the next step in the process is inventorying the thousands of equipment pieces, there. This includes Abrams tanks and Bradely fighting vehicles as well as dozens of 20-foot storage and shipping containers full of equipment stock, supplies, shop parts, and tools, and a multitude of other tactical and combat wheeled and tracked vehicles, plus more.
• Truman Strike Group Destroyers Conduct Barents Sea Operations US Navy 23 Oct 2024 -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) and USS Stout (DDG 55), assigned to the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG), conducted routine maritime operations in the Barents Sea in international waters, Oct. 21.
• Navy's Third Operational F-35C Lightning II Squadron Achieves Safe For Flight Certification US Navy 23 Oct 2024 -- The F-35C enhances the carrier strike group's ability to project power, supporting U.S. national security and integrating seamlessly with other carrier air wing assets.
• Navy Warfare Center Drives First Over-the-Horizon Install, Naval Strike Missile Launch Demonstration From Destroyer US Navy 23 Oct 2024 -- USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) conducts the first demonstration firing of a Naval Strike Missile from a U.S. Navy destroyer during RIMPAC.
• Secretary Del Toro As-Written Remarks at Future Nuclear-Powered Attack Submarine USS Atlanta (SSN 813) Naming Ceremony US Navy 23 Oct 2024
• Secretary Del Toro As-Written Remarks at the Georgia Tech Research Institute US Navy 23 Oct 2024
• SECNAV Del Toro Names Future Nuclear-Powered Attack Submarine USS Atlanta (SSN 813) US Navy Press Release 23 Oct 2024 -- Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced that the future Virginia-class Nuclear-Powered Attack Submarine SSN 813 will be named USS Atlanta. Del Toro made the announcement during a ship naming ceremony at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, in Atlanta, on Oct. 23.
• Space Systems Command releases Command Plan outlining organizational priorities United States Space Force 23 Oct 2024 -- Citing the growing criticality of effective, ready and reliable space capabilities in an era of Great Power Competition, Lt. Gen. Philip Garrant, Space Systems Command commander, has authored and released his command plan highlighting the organizational improvements necessary to pave the way forward for excellence.
• 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team Assumes KFOR East Command Army News 23 Oct 2024 -- U.S. Army Col. Jason Baker, the NATO-led Kosovo Force Regional Command East commander, relinquished command to U.S. Army Col. Peter Helzer during a transfer of authority ceremony Oct. 22.
• DIA Releases Nuclear Challenges Intelligence Overview DIA 23 Oct 2024-- The Defense Intelligence Agency has released a new publication describing the current nuclear capabilities of foreign adversaries.
• In Estonia NATO Secretary General visits a multinational battlegroup protecting the Eastern Flank NATO 23 Oct 2024 -- During his first trip to the Eastern Flank of the Alliance since taking office, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte met with Estonian President Alar Karis, Prime Minister Kristen Michal, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, and visited Allied troops at Tapa Army Base.
• Warships of Russian Navy and Myanmar Navy start Marumex 2024 naval exercise in Andaman Sea Russia MoD 23 Oct 2024 -- A detachment of the Pacific Fleet's ships comprising the corvettes Gromky, Rezky, Hero of the Russian Federation Aldar Tsydenzhapov and the medium sea tanker Pechenga left the port of Thilawa (Republic of the Union of Myanmar) for the Andaman Sea.
• Russian Armed Forces Develop New Mine Clearance Method Sputnik 23 Oct 2024 -- The Russian Defence Minister addressed the Joint Collegium of the Defence Ministry of Republic of Belarus and the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation
• Russian Defence Minister addresses on results of meeting of Joint Collegium of defence departments of Republic of Belarus and Russian Federation Russia MoD 23 Oct 2024
• Russian Defence Minister address Joint Collegium of Defence Ministry of Republic of Belarus and Ministry of Defence of Russian Federation Russia MoD 23 Oct 2024 -- The Russian Defence Minister addressed the Joint Collegium of the Defence Ministry of Republic of Belarus and the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation
• Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov arrives in Minsk on working visit to participate in meeting of Joint Collegium of Defence Ministry of Republic of Belarus and Ministry of Defence of Russian Federation Russia MoD 23 Oct 2024 -- Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov arrives in Minsk on working visit to participate in meeting of Joint Collegium of Defence Ministry of Republic of Belarus and Ministry of Defence of Russian Federation
• Russia, Belarus Finalize Military Cooperation Plan Until 2027 - Defense Minister Sputnik 23 Oct 2024 -- A Russia-Belarus ministerial in Minsk on Wednesday adopted the Union State's military security plan for the period from 2025-2027, Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov said.
• Russia pays North Korean soldiers about $2,000 a month: South's spy agency Radio Free Asia 23 Oct 2024 -- Russia will pay North Korean troops about US$2,000 per month each, South Korea's spy agency said on Wednesday, as the United States announced there was evidence that the troops were in Russia.
• Austin Confirms North Korea Has Sent Troops to Russia DoD News 23 Oct 2024 -- Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III confirmed there are North Korean troops in Russia, but it is unclear if they are preparing to become a co-belligerent in Russia's war on Ukraine.
• North Korea Sent Troops To Russia, Says U.S. Defense Chief RFE/RL 23 Oct 2024 -- U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said on October 23 that there is evidence North Korea has sent troops to Russia, calling it a "next step" after Pyongyang provided Moscow with arms.
• US: North Korea has dispatched 3,000 troops to Russia for training VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- The United States said Wednesday that 3,000 North Korean troops were dispatched to Russia earlier this month and are being trained there, possibly to fight alongside Moscow's troops in their 32-month war against Ukraine.
• Ukraine's Prosecutor-General Resigns Amid Draft-Dodging Scandal RFE/RL 23 Oct 2024 -- Ukrainian Prosecutor-General Andriy Kostin has resigned amid investigations that found dozens of government officials had dodged military service by claiming disability benefits.
• PLA Army holds live-fire drills with new air defense weapons Global Times 23 Oct 2024 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Army recently held live-fire shooting exercises with a new type of self-propelled air defense system integrated with a rotary cannon and missile launchers, with experts emphasizing the weapon's potential against drone threats.
• Taiwan unveils plans to cope with potential Chinese military blockade VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- Taiwan is stepping up efforts to strengthen its capabilities to respond to a potential military blockade by China, as Beijing increases military pressure on the democratically ruled island.
• Chinese blockade would trigger military response from Taiwan: Minister CNA 23 Oct 2024 -- A Chinese blockade around Taiwan would constitute an "act of aggression" as defined by the United Nations, and Taiwan's military would respond with anti-blockade measures and wartime deployments, Taiwan's defense minister said Wednesday.
• Navy takes delivery of new rescue and salvage ship: Source CNA 23 Oct 2024 -- Taiwan's Navy took delivery of a rescue and salvage ship Wednesday that is set to be the first vessel of its class, according to a source with knowledge of the matter.
• Readout of Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks' Meeting With Australian Minister of Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy DoD 22 Oct 2024
• US Marines head home after six months down under Australia DOD 23 Oct 2024 -- The 2024 Marine Rotational Force - Darwin (MRF-D) has this week departed Australia, concluding the 13th annual rotation of United States Marine Corps (USMC) to Northern Australia.
• HMAS Sydney charts course for Australia Australia DOD 23 Oct 2024 -- HMAS Sydney will return home on October 24 after a busy four months at sea during a regional presence deployment.
• Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Inspects Strategic Missile Bases KCNA 23 Oct 2024 -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, inspected strategic missile bases.
• UK-Germany Trinity House Agreement on Defence - Joint Communique UK MOD 23 Oct 2024 -- A commitment to improve and enhance bilateral defence co-operation between the Ministry of Defence of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
• Defence Secretary John Healey opening remarks from Trinity House agreement press conference 23 October 2024 UK MOD 23 Oct 2024 -- Defence Secretary John Healey delivered opening remarks alongside German defence minister, Boris Pistorius, after signing the Trinity House Agreement
• HMCS Regina conducts Joint Littoral Targeting Exercise Canada 23 Oct 2024 -- Today, His Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Regina successfully completed Joint Littoral Targeting Exercise 2024 (JoLTEX 24) at the United States Navy's Point Mugu Sea Range off the coast of Southern California.
• Iranian military delegation oversees international drills in Pakistan IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- A top-ranking Iranian military delegation headed by the country's Navy commander Brigadier General Hamid Vahedi has attended an international military exercise in Pakistan.
• Pakistan's weapons programs face scrutiny after US curbs VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- The latest U.S.-imposed restrictions on entities supporting Pakistan's defense programs may hinder Islamabad's future efforts to acquire sensitive defense technologies and its collaboration with China but are unlikely to affect Pakistan's weapons development for now, experts say.
• Poland - F-16 Viper Midlife Upgrade DSCA 23 Oct 2024 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Poland of F-16 Viper Midlife Upgrade and related elements of logistics and program support for an estimated cost of $7.30 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• Foreign Minister Tsahkna meeting with NATO secretary general: increased defence spending is necessary for NATO to remain the strongest alliance Estonia MFA 23 Oct 2024 -- Today 23 October, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna met with visiting NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, with discussions covering the reinforcement of the Alliance's deterrence and defence posture, and helping Ukraine achieve victory.
• A look at the Defence news, 14 - 20 October Netherlands Ministry of Defence 23 Oct 2024
• HMNZS Manawanui in Samoa New Zealand Defence Force 23 Oct 2024
• PH, Italy agree to fast-track talks on new defense deal Philippine News Agency 23 Oct 2024 -- The Philippines and Italy are working to conclude a defense agreement "at the soonest possible time," with hopes to sign it as early as 2025, the Philippine Embassy in Italy has said.
• Opening remarks by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, Dr Constantinos Kombos, at the First Strategic Dialogue between the Republic of Cyprus and the United States of America Press and Information Office, Ministry of Interior, Republic of Cyprus 23 Oct 2024
• Remarks by APNSA Jake Sullivan at the Brookings Institution The White House 23 Oct 2024
• Press Briefing by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby The White House 23 Oct 2024
• Secretary Blinken's Meeting with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud US Dept. of State 23 Oct 2024
• Secretary Blinken's Meeting with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud US Dept. of State 23 Oct 2024
• United States Welcomes the Republic of Cyprus' Signing of the Artemis Accords US Dept. of State 23 Oct 2024 -- The Republic of Cyprus became the 46th signatory of the Artemis Accords at a ceremony in Nicosia today.

Defense Industry

• Contracts For Oct. 23, 2024

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News
• 23 October 2024 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 23 Oct 2024

Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood

• Israeli Gov't May Hire Private Security Firm to Deliver Aid to Gaza - Reports Sputnik 23 Oct 2024 -- The Israeli government is discussing the possibility of hiring private security companies, including from the United Kingdom, to send aid to the Gaza Strip amid a possible ban on the activities of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), The Guardian newspaper reported.
• Oct. 22: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Press TV 23 Oct 2024/li>
• Zionist bombing campaign kills dozens more in Gaza IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- 70 more Palestinian civilians have been killed in Israeli regime's relentless bombardment and shelling of the Gaza Strip since Tuesday morning.
• Israel has killed 770 Palestinians in 19 days of Jabalia siege: Gaza media office Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- Israel has massacred more than 770 Palestinians in over two weeks of military attacks on the Jabalia refugee camp in the northern part of the besieged Gaza Strip.
• Over 470,000 Gazans 'perishing en masse' in north amid siege: Palestinian UN envoy Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- The Palestinian ambassador to the United Nations has warned that thousands of people in northern Gaza are facing an imminent massacre as the Israeli military continues its weeks-long siege and heavy bombardment of the region, blocking humanitarian aid to civilians and targeting shelters and hospitals.
• Hezbollah confirms martyrdom of head of Executive Council Hashem Safieddine Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- The Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah has confirmed the martyrdom of the head of its Executive Council, Sayyed Hashem Safieddine.
• Lebanon's Hezbollah confirms martyrdom of Sayyed Hashem Saffiedine in Beirut IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- Lebanon's Hezbollah in a statement confirmef the martyrdom of its head of the executive council in the Zionist regime's attack on the southern suburbs of Beirut.
• Hezbollah targets Israeli military positions in northern parts of occupied territories Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- The Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement has launched fresh attacks on Israeli military positions in the northern occupied Palestinian territories in response to the Tel Aviv regime's airstrikes on Lebanese towns and villages.
• Large number of Israeli armored vehicles damaged: Report IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- Israeli media outlets have acknowledged that the tanks and armored vehicles of the occupying regime have been damaged by Hezbollah and the Palestinian resistance groups.
• Missiles fired Israeli regime's civilian, military airports IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- Some media outlets have reported the launch of missiles from Lebanese soil at the Israeli regime's civilian and military airports in the occupied territories.
• Five hospitals completely out of service due to Israeli strikes: Lebanese doctor IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- The head of the Doctors Syndicate of Lebanon has declared that five hospitals have been completely knocked out of service as a result of the Israeli regime's attacks on the Arab country.
• Hezbollah retaliates against Zionist bombing campaign IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement has conducted fresh retaliatory operation by firing dozens of rockets on Zionist targets in the occupied territories.
• Israel attacks al-Mayadeen's office in Beirut Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- The Israeli regime has carried out an airstrike against the office of Lebanon's al-Mayadeen television network in the country's capital Beirut.
• Hezbollah hits six Israeli Merkava tanks in southern Lebanon Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- Lebanon's resistance movement Hezbollah continues to repel Israeli aggression on Lebanese soil while hitting the regime's targets deep inside the occupied territories.
• Intense bombardments, mass displacements and lack of access in northern Gaza force the postponement of polio vaccination campaign WHO 23 Oct 2024
• Civilians and peacekeepers at risk, amid escalating Lebanon conflict UN News 23 Oct 2024 -- A displacement crisis in unfolding in Lebanon, as Israel's escalating military offensive in the south and the bombing of Beirut continues to drive both Lebanese civilians as well as third country refugees from their homes and shelters, UN agencies warned on Wednesday.
• Gaza: Israeli strikes delay polio vaccine campaign in the north UN News 23 Oct 2024 -- Intense bombardments, mass displacements and lack of access in northern Gaza have forced the postponement of a polio vaccination campaign, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned on Wednesday.
• WHO: Intense Israeli bombardment halts polio vaccination in northern Gaza Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- The World Health Organization (WHO) says Israel's intense bombardment has prevented children across northern Gaza from receiving their third and final dose of the polio vaccine.
• UN calls for probe into deadly Israeli attack near Beirut hospital IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has called for an immediate investigation into the Israeli regime's deadly attack near a hospital in Beirut.
• Blinken: There is 'real opportunity' for deal to free hostages after killing of Hamas leader VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Wednesday that Israel's killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar presents a "real opportunity" to achieve an agreement to free the remaining hostages still being held by the militant group in the Gaza Strip.
• Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call With Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant DoD 23 Oct 2024
• Blinken Says 'Now Is The Time' To End War In Gaza RFE/RL 23 Oct 2024 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called on Israel and the Iran-backed groups it is fighting in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon to call a truce after the Israeli military said it had killed a top official for Hezbollah, a militant group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon, who had been widely expected to be the group's next leader.
• Secretary Blinken's Call with Jordanian Foreign Minister Safadi US Dept. of State 23 Oct 2024
• Secretary Antony J. Blinken Remarks to the Press US Dept. of State 23 Oct 2024
• Hashem Safieddine left behind 'inspiring' legacy of resistance: Iran president Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- President Masoud Pezeshkian of Iran has extended his condolences on the assassination of senior Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hashem Safieddine in an Israeli strike in Lebanon.
• Iran's Foreign Ministry strongly condemns Israel over Saffiedine's martyrdom IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- The Iranian Foreign Ministry has issued a statement, strongly condemning the Zionist regime for the martyrdom of head of Hezbollah's Executive Council, Seyyed Hashem Saffiedine in an airstrike on the Lebanese capital, Beirut.
• Iran, Egypt presidents say Israeli aggression must stop IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and his Egyptian counterpart, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, have said the Israeli aggression in Gaza and Lebanon must stop, calling for efforts to prevent the spread of conflict to other parts of the region.
• Iran president urges BRICS to leverage its influence to stop war in Gaza and Lebanon IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called on BRICS nations to utilize their capacity to end the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, warning that the continuation of violence could escalate global insecurity and war.
• Pezeshkian says seeking to prevent conflict expansion as Modi blasts Israel's genocide Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- President Masoud Pezeshkian lays emphasis on Iran's endeavor towards preventing the expansion of regional tensions, calling for an end to Israel's genocide and crimes.
• Lebanon: Statement by the High Representative Josep Borrell on EU's support to the country European External Action Service (EEAS) 23 Oct 2024 -- The military confrontation between Hezbollah and Israel is the cause of an unacceptable number of civilian casualties and unbearable level of destruction across the country, making the situation of Lebanon - a country already affected by a multitude of crises - even more fragile.
• Palestine/Israel: Statement by the High Representative on the grave situation in Northern Gaza European External Action Service (EEAS) 23 Oct 2024 -- The European Union is gravely concerned about the situation in Northern Gaza. The large-scale Israeli air and ground operation against Hamas since early October has reportedly killed hundreds of civilians, including women and children, destroyed UN shelters and severely damaged hospitals, such as the Indonesian Al Awda Hospital, according to the WHO.
• Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on her arrival in Beirut Germany Federal Foreign Office 23 Oct 2024
• Nordic statement on the draft legal bills in the Knesset related to UNRWA Government of Norway 23 Oct 2024 -- The Nordic countries are deeply concerned by the recent introduction of draft legal bills in the Knesset that, if adopted, would prevent the UNRWA from continuing its operations in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza.
• Iraqi resistance conducts two drone strikes on Eilat IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- The Islamic Resistance in Iraq says it has carried out two consecutive strikes on critical targets in the occupied port city of Um al-Rashrash (Eilat).
• Iraqi resistance launches retaliatory drone strikes on Israeli targets in Eilat, Golan Heights Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- Fighters from Iraqi anti-terror groups have carried out a series of attacks on strategic Israeli positions in the occupied territories, in retaliation for the Tel Aviv regime's unrelenting atrocities against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and devastating strikes across Lebanon.
• Highlighting "Alarming" Effects of Israel's Regional Incursions on Syria, Security Council Underscores Need to Protect Thousands of Refugees Pouring into Country UN Security Council 23 Oct 2024 -- "Syrians need today the urgent protection provided by de-escalation and the support needed to face crises upon crisis," the UN's senior mediator told the Security Council today, underscoring the need for a restoration of the country's sovereignty and a resumption of the long-stalled UN-facilitated political process, amid a spiralling of regional tensions and conflicts.

Other Conflicts

• Humanitarian aid workers face 'increasingly difficult' conditions VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- The president of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has announced the establishment of the Red Family Fund to honor humanitarian aid workers who have died in the line of duty.
• Percentage of women killed in war doubled in 2023: UN report UN News 23 Oct 2024 -- The proportion of women killed in armed conflicts doubled last year compared to 2022, accounting for 40 per cent of all deaths in war, while UN-verified cases of conflict-related sexual violence increased by 50 per cent.
• South China Sea conference 2024: speech by UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific UK FCDO 23 Oct 2024 -- Minister Catherine West gave a keynote speech to the South China Sea conference in Ha Long, Vietnam.
• Explosion In Kabul Kills 2, Injures Several Others, Says Taliban Source RFE/RL 23 Oct 2024 -- At least two people were killed and several wounded on October 23 in Kabul in a blast near a government office where ID cards are issued, a Taliban source told RFE/RL.
• Syria facing alarming regional spillover, UN envoy warns UN News 23 Oct 2024 -- The conflict in Gaza and Lebanon is spilling over into Syria, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation, the UN Special Envoy for the country warned on Wednesday.
• Aid organisations must be able to provide assistance in Syria without interference: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 23 Oct 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Syria.
• Myanmar junta forces kill, mutilate villagers, insurgents say Radio Free Asia 23 Oct 2024 -- Myanmar junta soldiers massacred and mutilated at least 25 villagers in revenge for an insurgent attack and impaled some of the victims on stakes as a warning, anti-junta forces in the strife-torn central region of Sagaing told Radio Free Asia on Wednesday.
• "I condemn this nefarious terrorist attack" Presidency of The Republic of Turkey 23 Oct 2024 -- President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who is in Tatarstan's capital Kazan for the 16th BRICS Summit, made remarks regarding the terror attack on the Turkish Aerospace Industries' facility in Ankara, and said: "We have four martyrs and 14 wounded. I condemn this nefarious terrorist attack and wish Allah's mercy upon our martyrs."
• Turkey's aerospace company targeted in 'terror attack,' 4 killed Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- Turkey says a huge explosion outside the headquarters of its Aerospace Industries (TAI) has left a number of people "dead and injured."
• Turkish Minister Says 5 Dead In 'Terrorist Attack' Near Ankara RFE/RL 23 Oct 2024 -- Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said suspected Kurdish militants set off explosives and opened fire on October 23 in a deadly "terrorist attack" on the facilities of the Turkish state-run aerospace and defense company TUSAS near Ankara.
• China's Xi meets India's Modi after signing border dispute agreement Radio Free Asia 23 Oct 2024 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit for leaders of developing nations shortly after their governments reached an agreement over a disputed area along their shared border.
• West using Iranian trio islands as excuse to justify regional presence: IRGC Navy chief Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- The commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy says the West is using the three Iranian islands of Abu Musa, the Greater Tunb, and the Lesser Tunb in the Persian Gulf as an excuse to justify their presence in the region, amid the Israel regime's wars on Lebanon and the Gaza Strip.
• Collaboration between MINUSCA and the government of the Central African Republic is vital: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 23 Oct 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on MINUSCA.
• The UK welcomes the unanimous mandate renewal of the Multinational Security Support mission to Haiti: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 23 Oct 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Haiti.
• Statement by the Humanitarian Coordination Forum on the Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan, 23 October 2024 UNOCHA 23 Oct 2024
• Inclusive Economic Development Crucial for Long-term Stability in Central African Republic, Chairperson Tells Security Council UN Security Council 23 Oct 2024 -- While there has been some recent momentum stemming from the dialogue between the Government and armed groups, the Central African Republic needs a recommitment to positive energy ahead of its elections set for 2025, several United Nations officials told the Security Council today.
• For Tibetan political leader, 'Middle Way' to autonomy is still core focus VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- In the lobby of an upscale hotel in Prague, Sikyong Penpa Tsering talked about death — specifically, the eventuality that China's Xi Jinping will one day die.
• Human Rights Watch criticizes Burkina Faso for omitting abuses in state report VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- Human Rights Watch is calling out the government of Burkina Faso for failing to include human rights violations taking place in the country in a report to the African Commission on Human and People's Rights.

News Reports

• Former Federal Employee Pleads Guilty to Mishandling Classified Materials US Dept. of Justice 23 Oct 2024 -- Margaret Anne Ashby, 26, of Henderson, Nevada, pleaded guilty today for mishandling sensitive documents as a former employee of a Department of Defense component agency.
• California Man Charged with Weapon of Mass Destruction Offense in Connection with Bomb Attack in Lobby of County Courthouse US Dept. of Justice 23 Oct 2024 -- Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov arrives in Minsk on working visit to participate in meeting of Joint Collegium of Defence Ministry of Republic of Belarus and Ministry of Defence of Russian Federation
• EU Cyber Rapid Response Team (CRRT) concludes deployment in support of Moldova's cybersecurity Lithuania MND 23 Oct 2024 -- The multinational EU Member States' Cyber Rapid Response Team (CRRT) has finished its second mission in support of Moldova (and third since 2022) during the first round of presidential election and the referendum on anchoring EU accession in the constitution.
• Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, October 23, 2024 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 23 Oct 2024
• Second day of 16th BRICS Summit President of Russia 23 Oct 2024 -- The 16th BRICS Summit continued in Kazan.
• Meeting with President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan President of Russia 23 Oct 2024 -- Vladimir Putin met with President of the Republic of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan.
• Meeting with President of Venezuela Nicolas Maduro President of Russia 23 Oct 2024 -- The President of Russia held a meeting with President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela Nicolas Maduro Moros on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan.
• Meeting with President of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian President of Russia 23 Oct 2024 -- Vladimir Putin held a meeting with President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan.
• Meeting with Prime Minister of Ethiopia Abiy Ahmed President of Russia 23 Oct 2024 -- Vladimir Putin had a meeting with Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Abiy Ahmed.
• Statement by the Representative of the Delegation of the Russian Federation at the Thematic Debate on "Other WMDs" in the First Committee of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly, New York, 22 October 2024 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 23 Oct 2024
• China space plan highlights commitment to space exploration, analysts say VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- Chinese officials recently released a 25-year space exploration plan that details five major scientific themes and 17 priority areas for scientific breakthroughs with one goal: to make China a world leader in space by 2050 and a key competitor with the U.S. in space, for decades to come.
• MSS unveils spy activities intended to steal national secrets from space Global Times 23 Oct 2024 -- Foreign intelligence agencies have been conducting remote sensing detection on China through high-precision satellites, with the intention of observing and stealing secrets from space in recent years, China's Ministry of State Security (MSS) revealed on Wednesday.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian's Regular Press Conference on October 23, 2024 PRC MofA 23 Oct 2024
• Embracing a Broader View and Cutting Through the Fog of Challenges to Advance High-Quality Development of Greater BRICS Cooperation PRC MofA 23 Oct 2024
• Xi arrives in Kazan for BRICS Summit, meets Putin Global Times 23 Oct 2024 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said China and Russia have found the right way for neighboring major countries to get along with each other which features non-alliance, non-confrontation and not targeting any third party, during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazan, Russia on Tuesday.
• Xi underscores BRICS' role in building multipolar world, driving globalization People's Daily 23 Oct 2024 -- The BRICS mechanism is a pillar in promoting a multipolar world and fostering an inclusive economic globalization, said Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday as leaders gathered in Kazan for the 16th BRICS Summit.
• China backs Russia-proposed BRICS payment system VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- Gathered Wednesday at a summit in the Russian city of Kazan, the members of BRICS adopted a joint declaration calling for the creation of an independent payment system based on their national currencies, a move in response to what they regard as illegal sanctions that are damaging the global economy.
• China In Eurasia Briefing: A Brief Guide To The High-Profile BRICS Summit RFE/RL 23 Oct 2024 -- akhstan caught observers off-guard when it said that it will "most likely" refrain from joining the group of countries.
• Xi says China, Russia find right way for neighboring major countries to get along with each other People's Daily 23 Oct 2024 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said Tuesday that China and Russia have found the right way for neighboring major countries to get along with each other, which features non-alliance, non-confrontation and not targeting any third party.
• Xi meets Modi at BRICS summit, urges China, India to facilitate each other's pursuit of development aspirations Global Times 23 Oct 2024 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met Wednesday with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit. Chinese analysts said the meeting has strategic significance as the recovery of China-India relations serves not only the interests of both countries, but also the multi-polarization of the world order.
• Chinese envoy criticizes Australia, US for 'double standards' on human rights, downplaying Gaza situation Global Times 23 Oct 2024 -- While Australia, the US and a handful of other Western countries turn a blind eye to their severe human rights issues at home, in the meantime they point their fingers at other countries, which says a lot about their hypocrisy on human rights, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Wednesday, in response to over 100 countries who have voiced support for China in various ways and opposition to interference in China's internal affairs under the pretext of human rights at the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly.
• 15 countries call on China to release Uyghur and Tibetan prisoners Radio Free Asia 23 Oct 2024 -- Fifteen Western countries have signed a public statement calling for China to release all "arbitrarily detained" Tibetans and Uyghurs and allow human rights observers to visit the regions in which they live.
• Uyghur advocacy group to hold elections despite threats by China Radio Free Asia 23 Oct 2024 -- The World Uyghur Congress will elect a new president and 34 other officials during its general assembly starting Thursday in Sarajevo, despite unprecedented harassment and threats from the Chinese government to disrupt the meeting.
• China, Vatican extend controversial deal on appointment of bishops Radio Free Asia 23 Oct 2024 -- China and the Vatican have extended an agreement on the appointment of Catholic bishops in China for a third time, despite widespread concern over the treatment of Catholics under the ruling Chinese Communist Party.
• Xi arrives in Kazan for BRICS Summit, meets Putin Global Times 23 Oct 2024 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said China and Russia have found the right way for neighboring major countries to get along with each other which features non-alliance, non-confrontation and not targeting any third party, during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazan, Russia on Tuesday.
• China: Speech by High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell at the EP plenary on the misinterpretation of the UN resolution 2758 and its continuous military provocations around Taiwan European External Action Service (EEAS) 22 Oct 2024 -- Speech delivered by Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, Nicolas Schmit, on behalf of High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell.
• Foreign Minister embarks on 10-day Latin American, Caribbean trip CNA 23 Oct 2024 -- Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) embarked on a trip to countries in Latin America and the Caribbean on Wednesday, his first visit to Taiwan's diplomatic allies since assuming the post on May 20.
• Ex-lawmaker acquitted in China espionage case CNA 23 Oct 2024 -- Former Taiwan Solidarity Union lawmaker Lo Chih-ming (羅志明) was acquitted recently on charges of developing a Chinese spy network in Taiwan and inviting military retirees to meet Chinese government officials, according to the Supreme Court.
• Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning sails through Taiwan Strait: MND CNA 23 Oct 2024 -- A Chinese fleet led by the Liaoning aircraft carrier transited through the Taiwan Strait Tuesday night, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said Wednesday.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 23 Oct 2024
• Iran fully prepared to protect nuclear sites: AEOI chief IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- The head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) says the armed forces are fully prepared to protect the country's nuclear facilities and will deliver a "crushing response" to any attack by the enemy.
• Iranian FM says neighboring countries won't allow use of territory for attacks on Iran People's Daily 23 Oct 2024 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that neighboring countries have assured Iran they will not allow the use of their territories in any potential attacks against the country.
• Iranian president makes 5 proposals at BRICS summit in Russia IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has outlined the potential for cooperation between BRICS and Iran, offering five key suggestions to help achieve the goals of this international organization, stating that BRICS serves as a significant example of successful collaboration within the Global South, especially in the context of multilateralism.
• Russia says it won't abandon Iran, seeks to deepen bilateral ties IRNA 23 Oct 2024 -- Russia says it has no intention of abandoning Iran and seeks to deepen its relations with the Islamic Republic.
• Pezeshkian: Iran-Russia ties strategic, highly beneficial Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- President Masoud Pezeshkian says Iran's relations with Russia are "strategic and highly beneficial."
• Prime Minister participates in the 16th BRICS Summit India MEA 23 Oct 2024 -- Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in the 16th BRICS Summit held under Russia's Chairship, in Kazan today.
• Transcript of Special Briefing on Prime Minister's Visit to Russia (October 23, 2024) India MEA 23 Oct 2024
• Meeting of Prime Minister with Mr. Xi Jinping, President of the People's Republic of China on the margins of the 16th BRICS Summit India MEA 23 Oct 2024
• Modi, Xi meeting signals thaw in frosty India-China ties VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the need to boost cooperation between the two countries on Wednesday during the first bilateral meeting held between the two leaders in five years.
• US lawmakers label Pakistan's governance 'military rule with civilian facade' VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- More than 60 members of Congress wrote to President Joe Biden on Wednesday, urging his intervention "to secure the release of political prisoners" in Pakistan, including former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
• Pakistani court grants bail, orders release of ex-leader's wife VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- A federal high court in Pakistan on Wednesday approved the bail application of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's wife, ordering her release after months of imprisonment related to corruption allegations.
• Kazakhstan In Dubai: Will Ex-Officials Face Greater Scrutiny Over U.A.E. Holdings? RFE/RL 23 Oct 2024 -- It's no exaggeration to say that if you took all the former and current Kazakh officials whose relatives are known to have owned property in Dubai, you could form a new government with plenty of well-known names.
• Analysis: China, Russia, North Korea and Iran described as new 'Axis of Evil' by some VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- U.S. officials are becoming increasingly concerned about the emerging partnership among China, Russia, Iran and North Korea - a bloc being talked about by some in Washington as a new "axis of evil."
• BRICS becoming 'new global pole' to upend West's monopoly: Iran FM Press TV 23 Oct 2024 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says the BRICS group of emerging economies is turning into a new pole across the globe as its members aim to counter Western monopoly and unilateralism.
• Orban Tells Hungarians To 'Resist' Brussels RFE/RL 23 Oct 2024 -- Nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban warned Hungarians on October 23 that they must "resist" the European Union, saying Brussels is trying to topple his government.
• Moldovan President, Opponent Agree On Debate Ahead Of Runoff RFE/RL 23 Oct 2024 -- Incumbent Moldovan President Maia Sandu and Russian-backed candidate Alexandr Stoianoglo have agreed to hold a public election debate on October 27 ahead of a tense November 3 presidential runoff amid warnings of continued Russian interference.
• World News in Brief: UNRWA staffer killed in Gaza, Central African Republic update, terror in Türkiye, journalists face financial reprisals UN News 23 Oct 2024 -- A strike in Deir Al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip has led to death of at least one staff member of the UN agency for Palestine refugees, UNRWA, on Wednesday.
• Gabon to vote on constitution that would let military leader run for president VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- Reactions were mixed in Gabon after military rulers this week announced that a referendum on a new constitution will be held November 16.
• Tunisia's president inaugurated for second term VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- Tunisian President Kais Saied was inaugurated for a second term following a tumultuous first term in which he suspended parliament, jailed his critics and rewrote the country's constitution.
• Namibia opposition demonstrates against ballots contract VOA 23 Oct 2024 -- As Namibia prepares to hold a general election next month, the country's main opposition party has objected to the South African company hired to print the ballots.