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News Reports

Current Operations

• DOD Releases the Annual Report on Civilian Casualties in Connection With U.S. Military Operations in 2023 DoD 19 Dec 2024 -- Today, the Department of Defense released the Annual Report on Civilian Casualties in Connection with United States Military Operations in 2023.
• Clashes reported between Yemeni army, US warships in Red Sea IRNA 19 Dec 2024 -- Some media outlets are reporting fierce clashes between the Yemeni armed forces and American warships in the Red Sea.

Defense Policy / Programs

• Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder Holds Press Briefing DoD 19 Dec 2024
• DOD Announces 2,000 Troops in Syria, Department Prepared for Government Shutdown DoD News 19 Dec 2024 -- The Defense Department today announced that there are approximately 2,000 U.S. troops deployed to Syria, which is roughly 1,100 more than had been reported in the past. "We have been briefing [the media] regularly that there are approximately 900 U.S. troops in Syria," Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder told reporters.
• U.S. Army Civil Affairs soldiers join Lithuanian Armed Forces in Confidence 2024 Exercise Army News 19 Dec 2024 -- U.S. Army Civil Affairs soldiers from Charlie Company, 443rd Civil Affairs Battalion, V Corps, in support of Task Force Pegasus, along with over 200 Lithuanian and NATO troops, participated in Confidence 2024, the largest civil-military non-kinetic exercise held by the Lithuanian Armed Forces in Western Lithuania from Dec. 6 to 13, 2024.
• Special Operations Chief Details Irregular Warfare Place in Defense Strategy DoD News 19 Dec 2024 -- Special operations forces have been crucial in U.S. counterterrorism efforts, but they also have a place in what is also known as a great power competition, said Chris Maier, the assistant secretary of defense for special operations and low-intensity conflict.
• CSAF, CMSAF continue Standing Watch tour in CENTCOM region US Air Force 19 Dec 2024 -- Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force David Flosi continued their Standing Watch trip, visiting numerous locations within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility to speak with Airmen and key partners Dec. 17-19.
• Marine Corps releases Talent Management Update, remains committed to empowering Marines while enhancing lethality USMC News Release 19 Dec 2024 -- The Marine Corps released the latest Talent Management update in support of Force Design, highlighting the continuous efforts to modernize and innovate its talent management systems, enhancing readiness and empowering Marines to thrive in a dynamic operational environment.
• SECNAV Carlos Del Toro visits NSA Bahrain US Navy 19 Dec 2024 -- Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro visits U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and U.S. 5th Fleet onboard Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain, Dec. 18-19.
• The Department of the Navy Releases Inaugural Advanced Manufacturing Strategy US Navy Press Release 19 Dec 2024 -- Today, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development & Acquisition (ASN RD&A), Nickolas Guertin released the inaugural Department of the Navy (DoN) Advanced Manufacturing Strategy.
• Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call With ROK Acting Minister of National Defense Kim Seon-ho DoD 19 Dec 2024
• New York National Guard Members Train with Swedish Partners Army News 19 Dec 2024 -- Nine New York National Guard Airmen and Soldiers learned cold weather survival techniques from Sweden's subarctic warfare experts during a week-long course in Boden, Sweden, 48 miles south of the Arctic Circle.
• Washington Guard, Royal Thai Army Complete Expert Exchange Army News 19 Dec 2024 -- As part of a December tradition, Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 168th General Support Aviation, partnered with the 9th Battalion of the Royal Thai Army for a two-week aviation-focused subject matter expert exchange in Lopburi, Kingdom of Thailand.
• PNSY Delivers Texas as Battle-Ready Asset to the Fleet US Navy 19 Dec 2024 -- USS Texas (SSN 775) completed sea trials off the coast of New England, marking the successful conclusion of its depot modernization period (DMP) at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY).
• NATO delivers Special Operations Forces' equipment to Mauritania NATO 19 Dec 2024 -- From 1 to 6 December 2024, NATO Defence Capacity Building (DCB) experts visited Nouakchott to support the implementation of key initiatives of Mauritania's DCB package, including in support of special operations forces (SOF), maritime security, intelligence, military career transition, military education and addressing challenges related to small arms and light weapons.
• NATO Secretary General hails Bulgaria's contributions to Euro-Atlantic security NATO 19 Dec 2024 -- NATO's Secretary General, Mark Rutte, visited Bulgaria today (19 December 2024), where he met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ivan Kondov, and the Minister of Defence, Atanas Zapryanov, and with personnel from the NATO Multinational Battle Group at the Novo Selo Range Army Base.
• President Holds a Telephone Talk with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte President of the Republic of Bulgaria 19 Dec 2024 -- President Rumen Radev held a telephone conversation with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who is visiting the Novo Selo training ground today to get acquainted with the activities of the Multinational Battle Group with Italy as the host country.
• New donation package to strengthen Ukraine's air defence Danish Ministry of Defence 19 Dec 2024 -- Today the Danish Government informed the Foreign Policy Committee on the 23rd donation package to Ukraine which includes 2.1 billion DKK to strengthen Ukraine's air defence and the capacity for fighter aircrafts. Furthermore, funding will be spent on additional infantry fighting vehicles.
• The President in Brussels: The EU needs to step up military assistance to Ukraine President of the Republic of Lithuania 19 Dec 2024 -- President Gitanas Nausėda is attending the European Council meeting in Brussels. On Thursday, the plenary session opened with a discussion with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who joined the EU leaders.
• German Military Supplies to Ukraine Amounted to $8.4Bln in 2024 Sputnik 19 Dec 2024 -- Germany's arms exports to Ukraine reached 8.13 billion euros ($8.4 billion) between January 1 and December 17, which is almost twice as much as in 2023, the German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action said.
• 'Matter for Discussion': Polish President on Possible Deployment of Troops to Ukraine Sputnik 19 Dec 2024 -- The possible deployment of Polish troops to Ukraine is a "matter for discussion," but no such talks are currently underway, Polish President Andrzej Duda said on Thursday.
• White House: NATO membership necessary for Ukraine security guarantees but invitation decision up to next president VOA 19 Dec 2024 -- As President Joe Biden's administration prepares to transfer power to the incoming team of President-elect Donald Trump, VOA Ukrainian Iuliia Iarmolenko spoke with Michael Carpenter, the National Security Council director for Europe. Carpenter discussed the Biden administration's final efforts to strengthen Ukraine and why it would take more time and resources from Washington to start successful negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.
• UK leadership on Ukraine continues as Defence Secretary announced £225m support package during Kyiv visit UK MOD 19 Dec 2024 -- The Defence Secretary outlined his five principles for supporting Ukraine next year during a visit to Kyiv on Wednesday
• ASD Ratner and DASD Chase Discussion on the CMPR at CSIS - "A Discussion on the Defense Department's 2024 China Military Power Report" DoD 19 Dec 2024 -- Ely Ratner, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs, Michael Chase, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia, and Bonny Lin Director, China Power Project and Senior Adviser, CSIS
• FM slams Pentagon report, says 'it lays little emphasis on truth' Global Times 19 Dec 2024 -- Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian on Thursday slammed a report released by the US Department of Defense titled "Military and Security development involving the PRC," saying that "like the ones we've seen before, it lays little emphasis on truth."
• Budget proposal for indigenous submarines clears committee review CNA 19 Dec 2024 -- A tranche of funding to start work building a fleet of indigenous defense submarines (IDS) in 2025 passed committee review 6-5 at the Legislature Thursday.
• Taiwan stages live-fire nighttime exercise in Penghu CNA 19 Dec 2024 -- Taiwan Army troops stationed in the offshore Penghu County conducted a live-fire drill Wednesday night, as part of a monthly exercise, the military said Thursday.
• Navy censured over incident involving loss of 3 submariners at sea CNA 19 Dec 2024 -- The Control Yuan on Thursday censured the Navy Command Headquarters for its handling of an incident that resulted in the loss of three submariners at sea last year.
• U.S. Senate passes defense bill authorizing increased Taiwan support CNA 19 Dec 2024 -- The U.S. Senate on Wednesday passed the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), including military articles and training worth up to US$300 million to support Taiwan.
• Final F-35A aircraft delivered Australia DOD 19 Dec 2024 -- The final nine of Australia's full fleet of 72 F-35A Lightning II aircraft have arrived at RAAF Base Williamtown in New South Wales, marking a significant milestone in Air Force's ability to defend our nation.
• By deploying carrier strike group to Indo-Pacific for 1st time in 40 years, France aggravates tensions in Aisa-Pacific: expert Global Times 19 Dec 2024 -- A French naval official said on Tuesday during his visit in Japan that part of a French carrier strike group - Charles de Gaulle Carrier Strike Group (CSG) - is due to visit Japan sometime between February and March next year.
• RNZAF continues more flights to support Vanuatu response New Zealand Defence Force 19 Dec 2024 -- A Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) C-130J-30 Hercules left at first light today and has arrived in Port Vila, with search and rescue equipment and more.
• German Parliament Approves Purchase of 4 New Type 212CD Submarines Sputnik 19 Dec 2024 -- The budget committee of the German parliament has approved the purchase of four new Type 212CD submarines, the country's defense ministry said on Wednesday.
• DRDO, IIT Delhi & the industry sign 10 tripartite agreements during an event organised by DRDO-Industry-Academia Centre of Excellence India PIB 19 Dec 2024 -- DRDO-Industry-Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoE) organised an event titled 'DRDO-Industry-Academia - Global Approach to Readiness of Indigenous Military Applications' (DIA-GARIMA) at IIT Delhi on December 19, 2024.
• INS TUSHIL COMMENCED HER PASSAGE TO INDIA India PIB 19 Dec 2024 -- INS Tushil, the latest multi-role stealth guided missile frigate of the Indian Navy, set sail from Kaliningrad, Russia for India on 17 Dec 24, marking the beginning of her maiden operational deployment.
• Plate Cutting Ceremony for the first of 14 FPV and first of six NGOPV being constructed by MDL for ICG held in Mumbai India PIB 19 Dec 2024 -- Plate Cutting Ceremony for the first of the 14 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPV) and first of the six Next-Gen Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPV) being constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd
• Pakistan defends ballistic missile development amid new US sanctions VOA 19 Dec 2024 -- Pakistan sharply criticized the United States Thursday for imposing new sanctions against the nuclear-armed country's long-range ballistic missile program, labeling the move as "double standards and discriminatory practices."
• Pakistan's reaction to the imposition of US sanctions on National Development Complex and three commercial entities Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Dec 2024 -- Pakistan considers the US decision to impose sanctions on NDC and three commercial entities as unfortunate and biased. Pakistan's strategic capabilities are meant to defend its sovereignty and preserve peace and stability in South Asia. The latest installment of sanctions defies the objective of peace and security by aiming to accentuate military asymmetries. Such policies have dangerous implications for strategic stability of our region and beyond.
• Government Defence Report outlines development of Finland's defence as part of NATO Finnish MoD 19 Dec 2024 -- At its session on 19 December 2024, the Finnish Government approved the Government Defence Report based on Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen's presentation.
• G7: European Union participates to Defense Policy Directors' Working Group on support to the Lebanese Armed Forces European External Action Service (EEAS) 19 Dec 2024 -- On 18 December 2024, the G7 gathered in a virtual G7 Defense Policy Directors' Working Group on coordinating and increasing support to the Lebanese Armed Forces.
• New PAF chief vows to implement 'integrated air defense system' Philippine News Agency 19 Dec 2024 -- Newly appointed Philippine Air Force (PAF) commander Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura on Thursday pledged to successfully implement an "integrated air defense system" under his term.
• PBBM to new PAF chief: No room for complacency, rise to the challenge Philippine News Agency 19 Dec 2024 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday urged newly-installed Philippine Air Force (PAF) commanding general Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura to guide the air force to make it "more agile, credible, and responsible to the demands of an ever-evolving security landscape."
• Vietnam showcases domestic weaponry at arms fair Radio Free Asia 19 Dec 2024 -- Vietnamese firms are showcasing about 100 types of domestically produced weapons at an arms-trade fair that opened on Thursday in the capital, Hanoi, in the hope of gaining a foothold in the global market.
• Romania to Pour Over $85Mln Into Modernizing Ammo Plant Sputnik 19 Dec 2024 -- The Romanian government has approved a project to invest 410 million lei ($85.4 million) into upgrading a plant in Cugir, which produces ammunition, spokesperson Mihai Constantin said.
• Slovak Troops to Monitor Security on Oil, Gas Pipelines - Reports Sputnik 19 Dec 2024 -- Slovak troops will participate in maintaining the security of oil and gas pipelines in the country, Slovak newspaper reported.
• Polish defense chief: Poland ready to face Russia's threats VOA 19 Dec 2024 -- Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz laid out his country's plans to deal with feared Russian aggression, such as possible missile infiltrations and conflict on its borders, in an interview with VOA Eastern Europe Bureau Chief Myroslava Gongadze.
• Secretary Antony J. Blinken at a UN Security Council Meeting on AI US Dept. of State 19 Dec 2024
• AI presents significant opportunities to support international peace and security: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 19 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on artificial intelligence.
  
• Secretary-General's remarks to the Security Council - on Artificial Intelligence [bilingual, as delivered] UN Secretary-General 19 Dec 2024
• Humanity's fate can't be left to algorithms, UN chief tells Security Council UN News 19 Dec 2024 -- The UN Secretary-General on Thursday urged the Security Council to act decisively to establish international guardrails for artificial intelligence (AI), warning that delays could heighten risks to global peace and security.
• Security Council Debates Use of Artificial Intelligence in Conflicts, Hears Calls for UN Framework to Avoid Fragmented Governance UN Security Council 19 Dec 2024 -- Rapidly evolving artificial intelligence (AI) is outpacing human ability to govern it, even threatening human control over weapons systems, the United Nations chief warned during a Security Council briefing today, urging Member States to swiftly establish "international guard-rails" to ensure a safe, secure and inclusive AI future for all.
• Secretary-General Tells Security Council That 'AI' Must Never Equal 'Advancing Inequality', Urging Safe, Secure, Inclusive Future for Technology UN Security Council 19 Dec 2024 -- Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres' remarks to the Security Council meeting on artificial intelligence and the maintenance of international peace and security, in New York today:
• Secretary Antony J. Blinken with David Gura of Bloomberg Surveillance US Dept. of State 19 Dec 2024
• Secretary Antony J. Blinken on MSNBC Morning Joe with Willie Geist, Jonathan Lemire, Andrea Mitchell, and Mike Barnicle US Dept. of State 19 Dec 2024

Defense Industry

• Contracts For Dec. 19, 2024

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News
• 19 December 2024 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 19 Dec 2024

Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood

• PM Netanyahu: "The Houthis are finding out, and will find out, the hard way that whoever harms Israel - will pay a very heavy price." Israel - Prime Minister 19 Dec 2024
• Israeli airstrikes hit Yemen VOA 19 Dec 2024 -- Israel's military said Thursday it carried out airstrikes against Houthi militant targets in Yemen.
• Israel continues striking Gaza as ceasefire talks continue VOA 19 Dec 2024 -- Israel continued to strike Gaza on Thursday as U.S. and Arab mediators worked to broker a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, according to reports.
• Dec. 19: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Press TV 19 Dec 2024
• Dec. 18: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Press TV 19 Dec 2024
• Gaza death toll rises to 45,129 IRNA 19 Dec 2024 -- The Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza has announced that since the onset of the Israeli regime's aggression against the besieged strip, 45,129 people have been martyred.
• Qassam Brigades: Four Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza stabbing operation Press TV 19 Dec 2024 -- The Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the Hamas resistance movement, says four Israeli troops were killed in an operation in the northern sector of the Gaza Strip.
• Lebanese PM: Israel breaching ceasefire agreement 'several times a day, every day' Press TV 19 Dec 2024 -- Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati has censured Israel for daily violations of the 60-day ceasefire agreement, asserting that the regime is not meeting its obligations.
• 'Dying hungry and in pain': An increasingly likely outcome in Gaza UN News 19 Dec 2024 -- The head of the UN aid coordination office in Gaza, Georgios Petropoulos, issued a harrowing update on the dire situation in the enclave on Thursday, describing it as "the most dangerous place on earth right now."
• Iran condemns Israeli attacks on Yemen's civilian infrastructure IRNA 19 Dec 2024 -- The spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry, Esmaeil Baghaei, has strongly condemned the Israeli regime's strikes on Yemen's infrastructure, describing them as a blatant violation of international law.
• Iran slams Israeli attacks on Yemen's civilian infrastructure, calls US 'partner in crime' Press TV 19 Dec 2024 -- Iran has strongly condemned Israel's deadly airstrikes that destroyed Yemen's civilian facilities, saying the Tel Aviv regime committed the crime while enjoying the United States' "unconditional" backing.
• Iranian, Turkish FMs urge end to Israeli war on Gaza to ensure regional security Press TV 19 Dec 2024 -- The top diplomats of Iran and Turkey call for an end to the Israeli regime's acts of aggression against the people of Palestine to ensure sustainable stability and security in the region.
• Iran, Egypt FMs call for regional cooperation, urgent support for Palestine Press TV 19 Dec 2024 -- The top diplomats of Iran and Egypt have stressed the need to boost regional cooperation to prevent further escalation of tensions and to support the war-stricken people of Palestine.
• Strong UN support for Norwegian-led resolution on humanitarian access in Palestine Government of Norway 19 Dec 2024 -- '137 countries in the UN General Assembly have sent a powerful message. It is unacceptable for Israel to block the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Palestinians living under occupation,' said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
• Norway's statement in the UN General Assembly on the draft resolution on humanitarian access in Palestine Government of Norway 19 Dec 2024
• Ireland says Israel closed embassy to divert public attention from Gaza IRNA 19 Dec 2024 -- Prime Minister of Ireland Simon Harris has described the Israeli regime's decision to close its embassy in Dublin as a step to divert public attention from its crimes in the Gaza Strip.
• "D-8 countries should work harder for the establishment of a just and permanent peace in our region" Presidency of The Republic of Turkey 19 Dec 2024 -- Addressing the special session on Palestine and Lebanon held within the 11th D-8 Summit, President Erdoğan said: "We should spearhead the development of new dynamics for the establishment of internal peace in Palestine, Lebanon and Syria. That regional countries display a strong solidarity among themselves without interfering in each other's domestic affairs is undoubtedly of great importance. In this sense, we, as the D-8 countries, should work harder for the establishment of a just and permanent peace in our region."
• The UK voted in favour of this resolution in line with our strong commitment to the international rule of law: UK statement in the UN General Assembly UK FCDO 19 Dec 2024 -- Explanation of vote by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, in the UN General Assembly meeting requesting an advisory opinion from the ICJ on Israel's legal obligations to ensure the UN and international partners can provide Palestinian civilians can get basic, life-saving supplies.
• Two vital Israeli targets hit using Palestine-2 missiles: Yemeni military IRNA 19 Dec 2024 -- The Yemeni military says its anti-Israeli military operation early on Thursday was carried out using two Palestine-2 hypersonic ballistic missiles and targeted two vital Israeli military targets.
• Sirens activated in Tel Aviv as Yemen launches missiles: Report IRNA 19 Dec 2024 -- Israeli authorities activated sirens in Tel Aviv and its surrounding areas amid reports of new Yemeni missile strikes on the occupied territories
• Yemeni Armed Forces ready for long war with Israel: Spokesman Press TV 19 Dec 2024 -- The Yemeni armed forces have conducted a fresh operation against the Israeli regime and in support of the Palestinian people in the besieged Gaza Strip.
• Yemen hails successful military operation against two 'strategic' Israeli military sites in Tel Aviv Press TV 19 Dec 2024 -- Yemen says it has conducted a successful military operation against two "strategic" military sites in Tel Aviv using Palestine-2 hypersonic ballistic missiles.
• Israeli warplanes conduct deadly strikes on 'civilian facilities' across Yemen Press TV 19 Dec 2024 -- Israeli warplanes have conducted fresh aerial assaults on the Yemeni capital of Sana'a and the strategic western province of Hudaydah, killing and injuring several people.
• 1 million-plus settlers flee after Yemeni missile strikes Tel Aviv metropolitan area: Media Press TV 19 Dec 2024 -- More than one million illegal settlers have rushed into shelters after a missile fired from the direction of Yemen struck the largest metropolitan area in the occupied Palestinian territories, reports say.

Other Conflicts

• Syria's new 'flame of hope' must not be extinguished: Guterres UN News 19 Dec 2024 -- A flame of hope burns bright today in Syria - but if it's not carefully managed by both Syrians themselves and the international community, it risks being extinguished.
• Reconstruction and vital repairs underway in Syria, as 'security conditions' permit UN News 19 Dec 2024 -- Around 1.3 million Syrians have received food aid in the past three weeks across Syria from the UN and partners, as the restoration of key services begins in some of the relatively stable areas of the country.
• UN chief tells Israel to stop bombing Syria VOA 19 Dec 2024 -- U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called on Israel to halt its airstrikes on Syria, calling them violations of the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
• Putin says Assad ouster not a defeat for Russia VOA 19 Dec 2024 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin Thursday rejected the notion that the ouster of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad represented a defeat for Russia.
• Turkiye Won't Intervene If Syria Able to Tackle Terrorism Effectively, Says Top Diplomat Sputnik 19 Dec 2024 -- Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Ankara would have no reason to interfere in anti-terrorism efforts in Syria if the new administration handles the problem "properly."
• "Our sincerest expectation is the reconstruction of a terror-free Syria where all ethnic groups live in peace" Presidency of The Republic of Turkey 19 Dec 2024 -- Addressing the 11th D-8 Summit, President Erdoğan said: "We work to contribute to the establishment of stability in Syria. We emphasize at every opportunity the importance we attach to the restoration of Syria's territorial integrity and unity. Our sincerest expectation is the reconstruction of a terror-free Syria where all ethnic groups live side by side in peace."
• Statement attributable to the Spokesperson of the Secretary-General - on Yemen UN Secretary-General 19 Dec 2024
• Treasury Maintains Pressure on Houthi Procurement and Financing Schemes US Treasury 19 Dec 2024 -- Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned a dozen individuals and entities based in multiple jurisdictions, including the head of the Houthi-aligned Central Bank of Yemen branch in Sana'a, for their roles in trafficking arms, laundering money, and shipping illicit Iranian petroleum for the benefit of the Houthis. Among the persons designated today are key smuggling operatives, arms traffickers, and shipping and financial facilitators who have enabled the Houthis to acquire and transport an array of dual-use and weapons components, as well as generate revenue to support their destabilizing regional activities. Additionally, OFAC identified five cryptocurrency wallets associated with Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force (IRGC-QF)-backed Houthi financial official Sa'id al-Jamal (al-Jamal), who operates under the aliases "Khrpi," "Ahmad Sa'idi," and "Hisham," among others.
• Junta forces are mobilizing in central Myanmar amid Shan state ceasefire, rebel say Radio Free Asia 19 Dec 2024 -- Myanmar's junta has been mobilized forces for offensives in the Mandalay, Sagaing and Magway regions at the same that it has significantly reduced attacks in northern Shan state following a recent ceasefire there, members of the rebel People's Defense Forces told Radio Free Asia.
• Myanmar's junta reinforcing troops in 3 Rakhine towns ahead of expected rebel attacks Radio Free Asia 19 Dec 2024 -- Myanmar's junta is desperately reinforcing its troops in three of the five remaining townships it still controls in the western state of Rakhine while rebel forces intensify an offensive to seize the other two, residents said Thursday.
• Myanmar appoints new defense minister as army struggles Radio Free Asia 19 Dec 2024 -- Myanmar's junta appointed a new minister of defense, state-controlled media reported, in the wake of significant insurgent advances across the county that have put the military under unprecedented pressure.
• Over one-third of Myanmar's population to need aid by 2025: UNOCHA Radio Free Asia 19 Dec 2024 -- More than one-third of Myanmar's population will be in need of humanitarian assistance by 2025, driven largely by displacement from conflict and natural disasters this year, according to a United Nations report.
• Senior UN Official Tells Security Council That 'Unbearable' Numbers of Civilians Killed, Injured in Sudan, Urging End to Violence, Funding for Aid UN Security Council 19 Dec 2024 -- As indiscriminate killings, sexual violence and famine deepen the crisis in Sudan, the Security Council must rise to the challenge of delivering lasting peace in that country, that body heard today from both humanitarian officials and Member States.
• Staggering scale of Sudan crisis 'demands sustained and urgent attention' UN News 19 Dec 2024 -- A senior UN humanitarian official on Thursday issued an urgent plea for international support to alleviate the devastating toll of the ongoing war in Sudan, as millions remain in desperate need of aid and protection.
• Secretary Antony J. Blinken at a UN Security Council Meeting on Sudan US Dept. of State 19 Dec 2024
• The warring parties must end Sudan's suffering in 2025: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 19 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Sudan.
• Civilians fleeing war in Sudan to Uganda give harrowing testimony to United Nations Fact-Finding Mission OHCHR 19 Dec 2024 -- Dozens of men, women and children who fled Sudan have offered vital testimony about the country's deadly conflict to human rights experts visiting a settlement camp in neighbouring Uganda.
• Lawmaker Shot Dead In De Facto Parliament Of Georgia's Breakaway Abkhazia Region RFE/RL 19 Dec 2024 -- One lawmaker was killed and another injured in a shooting at the de facto parliament in Georgia's Abkhazia, a breakaway region supported by Russia.
• Somalia 'open' to Ethiopian troop role VOA 19 Dec 2024 -- The Somali government is "open" to a potential role for Ethiopian troops in an African Union mission scheduled to take over peacekeeping operations in the country next month.

News Reports

• California Man Sentenced for Acting as an Illegal Agent of the People's Republic of China Government and Bribery US Dept. of Justice 19 Nov 2024 -- John Chen, 71, of the People's Republic of China (PRC) and Los Angeles, was sentenced today to 20 months in prison for acting as unregistered agents of the PRC and bribing an IRS agent in connection with a plot to target U.S.-based practitioners of Falun Gong — a spiritual practice banned in the PRC.
• California Political Operative Arrested on Complaint Alleging He Acted as Illegal Agent of People's Republic of China US Dept. of Justice 19 Dec 2024 -- A criminal complaint filed Dec. 17 and unsealed this morning charges Yaoning "Mike" Sun, 64, for allegedly acting as an illegal agent of the People's Republic of China (PRC) while serving as the campaign manager for a political candidate who was elected in 2022 to the city council of a California city. Sun was arrested today is expected to make his initial appearance this afternoon in the Central District of California.
• Combating terrorism: Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland brings charges against two suspected IS members Federal Council - Swiss Government 19 Dec 2024 -- The Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland (OAG) has brought charges before the Federal Criminal Court against two Swiss nationals aged 22 and 28. The OAG alleges that the two residents of Canton Zurich, who have prior convictions, initially supported the banned terrorist group 'Islamic State' (IS) and then subsequently became members.
• U.S. California declares state of emergency over bird flu People's Daily 19 Dec 2024 -- California Governor Gavin Newsom on Wednesday declared a state of emergency in response to the outbreak of Avian influenza A (H5N1), commonly known as bird flu, which has infected 34 people in the Golden State.
• U.S. confirms first human bird flu severe case People's Daily 19 Dec 2024 -- The United States has confirmed a severe human case of avian influenza A (H5N1) virus (H5N1 bird flu) infection.
• Government introduces a sanction to defend against hostile influence activities by Russia and Belarus Estonia MFA 19 Dec 2024 -- The Foreign Minister today submitted a proposal to the government on imposing a sanction to defend Estonia against hostile influence activities by Russia and Belarus.
• Results of the Year with Vladimir Putin President of Russia 19 Dec 2024 -- Vladimir Putin summed up the results of the year and answered questions from journalists and the people of Russia in a live broadcast.
• Putin, In Annual Televised Show Of Control, Says Russia Nearing 'Primary Goal' In Ukraine War RFE/RL 19 Dec 2024 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow is nearing its primary goal in the war against Ukraine and challenged the United States to a missile "duel" involving Russia's new Oreshnik hypersonic ballistic missile.
• Russia-China ties at 'unprecedented level,' says Putin, predicting trade volume set to reach between $220 billion to $240 billion Global Times 19 Dec 2024 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday at the annual press conference that relations between Russia and China have reached "an unprecedented level" as a result of the high level of mutual trust between both countries, Xinhua News Agency reported.
• Telephone conversation with President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev President of Russia 19 Dec 2024 -- Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the initiative of the Uzbekistani side.
• Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's telephone conversation with Head of the Federal Department (Minister) of Foreign Affairs of the Swiss Confederation Ignazio Cassis Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Dec 2024
• Uzbek Man Charged With Terrorism In High-Profile Assassination Of Russian General RFE/RL 19 Dec 2024 -- A court in Moscow charged Uzbek citizen Ahmat Qurbanov on December 19 with terrorism and other charges in the high-profile killing of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, who headed Russia's Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Defense Forces.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian's Regular Press Conference on December 19, 2024 PRC MofA 19 Dec 2024
• China remains a coveted place for foreign investors: FM Global Times 19 Dec 2024 -- China welcomes more foreign friends to come to invest in the country, share China's growth opportunities and development dividends, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Thursday.
• China's farm sector more tainted by forced labor than previously known, report says Radio Free Asia 19 Dec 2024 -- Chinese exports of tomatoes, chili peppers, marigolds and other farm products grown in the far-western region of Xinjiang are tainted by forced labor as well as the coercive transfer of land from Uyghur peasants to Chinese businesses, new research shows.
• China counting on cyber-psychological cocktail to expand dominance VOA 19 Dec 2024 -- China's push to develop the world's premier fighting force extends beyond conventional and nuclear capabilities, with U.S. officials warning that Beijing is pouring resources into a mix of psychological warfare and cyber operations.
• US slow to react to pervasive Chinese hacking, experts say VOA 19 Dec 2024 -- As new potential threats from Chinese hackers were identified this week, the federal government issued one of its strongest warnings to date about the need for Americans — and in particular government officials and other "highly targeted" individuals — to secure their communications against eavesdropping and interception.
• Chinese FM responds to White House director of drug-control policy on progress made between two countries Global Times 19 Dec 2024 -- In response to remarks made by White House director of drug-control policy that progress had been made with China on fentanyl since China-US summit in San Francisco in November 2023 and progress cannot be allowed to slow down, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated the cooperation in drug control is one of the important consensuses reached during the meeting between the two heads of state in San Francisco, and China is willing to continue drug control cooperation with the US on the basis of equality, mutual benefit, and mutual respect.
• China's Supreme People's Procuratorate decides to arrest former senior political advisor Gou Zhongwen in accordance with law Global Times 19 Dec 2024 -- China's Supreme People's Procuratorate (SPP) announced on Thursday that it has made the decision to arrest Gou Zhongwen, a former member of the Standing Committee of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, over allegations of bribery and abuse of power.
• China's top procuratorate orders arrest of former senior political advisor Gou Zhongwen People's Daily 19 Dec 2024 -- China's top procuratorate has ordered the arrest of Gou Zhongwen, a former member of the Standing Committee of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), over allegations of bribery and abuse of power.
• Chinese commerce ministry slams EU's inclusion of Chinese companies and individuals in 'fully-fledged listings'; vows 'necessary measures' Global Times 19 Dec 2024 -- China deplores and firmly opposes the EU's move, the Chinese Commerce Ministry said on Thursday in response to a question regarding the EU's decision to include Chinese companies and individuals in this sanctions list for the first time.
• Xi lauds Macao's success ahead of silver jubilee People's Daily 19 Dec 2024 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Macao on Wednesday afternoon, describing Macao as "a pearl on the palm" of the motherland and expressing confidence in its promising future.
• Xi acknowledges work of outgoing Macao SAR chief executive People's Daily 19 Dec 2024 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday met with Ho Iat Seng, the outgoing chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), expressing the central authorities' full acknowledgment of the work of Ho and the fifth-term Macao SAR government.
• Leading Macao to greater success of "one country, two systems" People's Daily 19 Dec 2024 -- In 2012, shortly after becoming general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, Xi Jinping visited Guangdong Province in southern China. One stop on this trip was Hengqin, a place that was not so well-known back then but has since gained much spotlight.
• Chinese private rocket firm Galactic Energy completes 4th launch from sea Global Times 19 Dec 2024 -- A sea-launched version of Ceres I (Remote 4) solid propellent rocket blasted off in East China's Shandong Province at 6:18 pm on Tuesday, sending four satellites into low-Earth orbit (LEO) at an altitude of 850 kilometers.
• China's pressure on Taiwan intensified in 2023: U.S. defense report CNA 19 Dec 2024 -- China increased its military pressure on Taiwan in 2023 and took other steps in preparation for a potential invasion, according to an annual report published by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) on Wednesday (U.S. time).
• Chinese FM rebukes Blinken's claim, emphasizing that the Taiwan question is purely China's internal affair. Global Times 19 Dec 2024 -- In response to the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's claim that the Taiwan question is not just China's domestic affair, as a crisis in the Taiwan region would affect the world, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that Taiwan is China's Taiwan, and Taiwan question is purely an internal affair of China, not subject to any external interference.
• China to launch rocket Friday; will fly over Taiwan's ADIZ: MND CNA 19 Dec 2024 -- China will launch a rocket carrying a satellite that will likely fly over Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Friday, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) said Thursday.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 19 Dec 2024
• Spokesman for DPRK Foreign Ministry Issues Press Statement KCNA 19 Dec 2024 -- A spokesman for the Foreign Ministry of the DPRK released the following press statement titled "We will not impose any restrictions on defending and exercising the legitimate right granted to our sovereign state" on Dec. 19:
• Cold Snap Exposes Extent Of Iran's Energy Crisis RFE/RL 19 Dec 2024 -- Despite sitting atop the world's second-largest natural gas reserves, energy shortages have become a feature of winters in Iran.
• Nuclear capability is not only not a threat, but also an opportunity for development and self-sufficiency: AEOI chief IRNA 19 Dec 2024 -- Heead of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Mohammad Eslami said that nuclear capability is not only not a threat, but also a strategic opportunity for the country's development and self-sufficiency.
• US adds more individuals, entities to anti-Iran sanctions list IRNA 19 Dec 2024 -- The United States keeps pressing ahead with its so-called maximum pressure policy against Iran, as the State Department has announced sanctions on individuals and entities involved in Iran's drone and missile programs.
• Sanctioning Iran's Oil Trade, Support for Proxies and Partners, and Violations of Human Rights US Dept. of State 19 Dec 2024 -- The Department of State is today imposing sanctions on four entities that have transported Iranian oil and identifying six vessels as their blocked property.
• Sanctioning Entities Engaged in Transporting Iranian Oil and Violations of Human Rights US Dept. of State 19 Dec 2024 -- Fact Sheet
• Treasury Maintains Pressure on Iranian Shadow Fleet US Treasury 19 Dec 2024 -- Today, the United States Department of the Treasury is imposing sanctions on four entities and three vessels involved in the trade of Iranian petroleum and petrochemicals, which generate billions of dollars' worth of revenue for the Iranian regime. This revenue supports Iran's nuclear program, its development and proliferation of provocative ballistic missiles, and financing of terrorist proxy groups such as Hizballah, Hamas, and the Houthis. Vessels transporting Iranian petroleum and petrochemicals frequently use methods of obfuscation and deception to mask this trade, posing a significant danger to the maritime industry.
• Pakistan's Push For Digital Control Adds To 'Climate Of Fear' RFE/RL 19 Dec 2024 -- Pakistan is cracking down on the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) that allow Internet users to circumvent government controls.
• MFA statement on summoning Belarusian chargé d'affaires Poland - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 19 Dec 2024 -- Due to the aggressive actions of the Belarusian KGB towards diplomats of the Republic of Poland accredited on the territory of the Republic of Belarus and of third countries, and further to the note of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus of 11 December 2024, the Polish MFA summoned Belarusian Chargé d'Affaires Aleksei Ponkratenko on 18 December 2024.
• European Council: press remarks by High Representative Kaja Kallas upon arrival European External Action Service (EEAS) 19 Dec 2024
• Exclusive: Allies Of Tajikistan's Ruling Family Cash In On Connections RFE/RL 19 Dec 2024 -- If you bring a mobile phone or tablet into Tajikistan, the law requires you to register the device with the government.
• U.S., Britain Impose Sanctions On Georgian Interior Ministry Officials RFE/RL 19 Dec 2024 -- The United States and the United Kingdom have announced sanctions on Georgian Interior Minister Vakhtang Gomelauri and other senior officials in the ministry in response to their alleged role in a violent crackdown on journalists, opposition figures, and anti-government protesters.
• UK sanctions Georgian officials responsible for brutal crackdown on media and protestors UK FCDO 19 Dec 2024 -- The UK has designated five Georgian officials for serious human rights violations.
• Sanctioning Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs Officials Involved in Serious Human Rights Abuses against Protesters US Dept. of State 19 Dec 2024 -- The United States is imposing sanctions today on Georgian Minister of Internal Affairs Vakhtang Gomelauri and the Deputy Head of the Ministry's Special Task's Department Mirza Kezevadze under the Global Magnitsky sanctions program.
• Treasury Sanctions Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs Officials for Brutality Against Protesters, Journalists, and Politicians US Treasury 19 Dec 2024 -- Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is sanctioning two Georgian officials from Georgia's Ministry of Internal Affairs which has engaged in brutal crackdowns on media members, opposition figures, and protesters — including during demonstrations throughout 2024. These officials are being sanctioned under Executive Order (E.O.) 13818 (Global Magnitsky), following the September 16, 2024 sanctions of two other Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs officials. This action was coordinated with the United Kingdom, which today designated five individuals responsible for human rights violations in Georgia.
• World News in Brief: Deaths and injuries mount in Ukraine, refugees from Sudan, Vanuatu quake response UN News 19 Dec 2024 -- In Ukraine, the UN continues to provide aid and support to communities impacted by Russia's full-scale invasion.
• Mogadishu development project brings hope to Somalia VOA 19 Dec 2024 -- In a landmark event for Somalia, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Thursday officially launched the "New Mogadishu" development initiative, a transformative project that aims to reshape the capital's economic landscape.
• Prime Minister Golob: Weapons must be replaced by diplomacy Republic of Slovenia 19 Dec 2024 -- Prime Minister Robert Golob is attending a special European Council meeting in Brussels today. Yesterday, the EU-Western Balkans Summit was held, during which EU and Western Balkan leaders discussed the implementation of the Growth Facility, the region's progress towards the EU and common geopolitical challenges in a rapidly changing world.
• Nicaragua's proposed media reform echoes that of other authoritarian regimes VOA 19 Dec 2024 -- Nicaragua is expected to rubber stamp a change to its constitution in January that alters presidential power and increases state control over media.