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News Reports

Current Operations

• CENTCOM Forces Kill Senior ISIS Official in Atimah, Syria CENTCOM 21 Aug 2025 -- U.S. Central Command forces conducted a successful raid in northern Syria on August 19, killing a senior ISIS member and key financier who planned attacks in Syria and Iraq. He had relationships throughout the ISIS network in the region, posing a direct threat to U.S. and Coalition forces and the new Syrian Government.

Defense Policy / Programs

• U.S., South Korea Kick Off Ulchi Freedom Shield 25 DoD News 21 Aug 2025 -- The 7th Air Force and other U.S. forces are partnering with South Korea to conduct Ulchi Freedom Shield 25, which began Aug. 18 and continues through Aug. 28.
• US amphibious warship catches fire off Okinawa; conflicting reports between US and Japan draw attention Global Times 21 Aug 2025 -- The US Navy's San Antonio class amphibious warfare ship USS New Orleans suffered a fire on Wednesday while it was off White Beach in Uruma City on the Japanese island of Okinawa. This seemingly ordinary incident of a ship fire, however, has come put under the spotlight due to the information discrepancy between the US and Japanese sides.
• Building a more agile, integrated force: DAF cements inaugural DLE US Air Force 21 Aug 2025 -- The Department of the Air Force recently concluded its Department-Level Exercise series, a month-long series of exercises conducted across the Indo-Pacific, including Resolute Force Pacific, Resolute Space, Mobility Guardian 2025, Emerald Warrior and Bamboo Eagle 25-3. The exercises enhanced readiness and interoperability with allies and partners, while providing critical lessons learned for future operations.
• Patriot Medic 25 tests Reserve medical readiness in large-scale combat operations US Air Force 21 Aug 2025 -- Patriot Medic 2025 took place August 6 to 12 at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, and Grissom Air Reserve Base, Indiana. The multi-national exercise, led by the Air Force Reserve, included more than 9,000 personnel from all U.S. military services and international partners including Australian, British and Canadian forces.
• EW 25.2: AFSOC heightens warfighting readiness during landmark DLE series US Air Force 21 Aug 2025 -- Air Force Special Operations Command tested its warfighting readiness during Emerald Warrior 25.2, the command's premier operational exercise held across Arizona and California from July 21 - Aug. 11.
• Marines Pilot Artificial Intelligence Fellowship at NPS USMC News Release 21 Aug 2025 -- U.S. Marines gathered at the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) in Monterey, California, August 11-14, to launch a new initiative in military innovation and education: the inaugural U.S. Marine Corps-Naval Postgraduate School Artificial Intelligence (AI) Fellowship.
• US Navy drone fleet faces setbacks amid accidents, leadership shake-ups and growing doubts Global Times 21 Aug 2025 -- The US Navy's ambitious effort to build a fleet of autonomous drone vessels to counter China has been plagued by repeated accidents and management turmoil, Reuters reported Wednesday. Expert questioned the project's "China threat" rhetoric origin, further casting doubt on its viability.
• U.S. Navy Sailor Convicted of Spying for China US Dept. of Justice 21 Aug 2025 -- Yesterday, on Aug. 20, a federal jury convicted Jinchao Wei, also known as Patrick Wei, of espionage and export violations. Wei was an active-duty U.S. Navy sailor stationed at Naval Base San Diego when he agreed to sell Navy secrets to a Chinese intelligence officer for $12,000.
• NATO to establish logistics headquarters in Sweden Government Offices of Sweden 21 Aug 2025 -- The Government has instructed the Swedish Armed Forces to offer NATO the opportunity to open a logistics headquarters in Sweden.
• Thousands Of Central Asians Enlisted To Fight Russia's War In Ukraine Through 'Coercion, Enticements' RFE/RL 21 Aug 2025 -- Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries have repeatedly warned their citizens against taking part in Russia's war in Ukraine, warning them that if they did, they would face mercenary charges at home. But Russia continues to recruit Central Asian nationals to fill the ranks of its depleting forces in Ukraine. Russia hosts millions of migrant workers from the former Soviet region.
• Security Guarantees for Ukraine Were Discussed at the Office of the President with a Representative of the UK Foreign Office President of Ukraine 21 Aug 2025
• Denys Shmyhal: We are creating favorable conditions for Ukrainian arms manufacturers Ukraine MOD 21 Aug 2025
• Defense production and battlefield needs: Denys Shmyhal meets Chair of Bundestag Defence Committee Ukraine MOD 21 Aug 2025
• Denys Shmyhal and the Director of KNDS Deutschland discussed establishing joint ventures in Ukraine Ukraine MOD 21 Aug 2025
• Denys Shmyhal discusses establishing joint ventures in Ukraine with leading arms manufacturer Ukraine Government 21 Aug 2025 -- Minister of Defence of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal held a meeting with a delegation from KNDS Deutschland, led by Executive Director Ralf Ketzel.
• Denys Shmyhal: Creating favourable conditions for Ukrainian arms manufacturers Ukraine Government 21 Aug 2025 -- The Parliament has supported key draft laws on Defence City, a special legal regime to support domestic enterprises in the defence-industrial complex.
• Defence production and battlefield needs: Denys Shmyhal holds meeting with Chair of Bundestag Defence Committee Ukraine Government 21 Aug 2025 -- Minister of Defence of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal discussed defence production, military training, and the use of frozen russian assets with Thomas Röwekamp, Chair of the Defence Committee of the German Bundestag.
• Taiwan defense spending to reach 3.32% of GDP in 2026: Premier CNA 21 Aug 2025 -- Taiwan's defense spending will reach 3.32 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) next year, Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) said Thursday, adding that the planned budget increase underscores the nation's commitment to safeguarding national security.
• Cabinet unveils 2026 central government spending plan CNA 21 Aug 2025 -- Taiwan's Executive Yuan on Thursday put forth a NT$3.13 trillion (US$102.9 billion) proposal for government expenditure in 2026, which includes a significant increase in military spending.
• Special defense budgets anticipate more U.S. arms sales: Experts CNA 21 Aug 2025 -- The Cabinet's planned special defense budgets totaling NT$117.6 billion (US$3.85 billion) anticipate the Trump administration approving more arms sale packages to Taiwan next year as a workaround given a limited general budget increase, experts said Thursday.
• DPP boosting Taiwan's military budget to over 3% will 'intensify tensions' across Straits Global Times 21 Aug 2025 -- Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities in the island of Taiwan plan to boost defense spending by a fifth next year, surpassing 3 percent of gross domestic product in the island, Reuters reported on Thursday, which claimed that the DPP seeks to target the Chinese mainland and convince the US it will bolster military spending. A mainland expert said this plan again exposed the DPP's delusion to "solicit US support for independence" and "resist reunification by force," which is doomed to fail.
• Defence industry builds ties with South Korea Australia DOD 21 Aug 2025 -- Building on a strong and enduring partnership, the second Republic of Korea-Australia (ROK-AUS) Defence Industry Conference in Canberra on August 13 included discussions on security strategy, advanced technologies and defence capabilities.
• Skiing and shooting skills showcased in Exercise Coolshot Australia DOD 21 Aug 2025 -- The Australian Army's Nordic Skiing and Biathlon team are competing at the annual inter-service championships, Exercise Coolshot, at Mount Hotham, Victoria from 18-21 August.
• Royal Canadian Navy accepts the sixth Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel Canada 21 Aug 2025 -- Today, the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) accepted the sixth and final Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV), His Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Robert Hampton Gray. This delivery marks the completion of a fleet of vessels that have already had an exemplary deployment history since the commissioning of the first ship in 2021.
• INDIAN NAVAL SHIP TAMAL ARRIVED AT SOUDA BAY, GREECE India PIB 21 Aug 2025 -- INS Tamal, the latest stealth frigate, arrived at Souda Bay, Greece, on 19 Aug 2025 during her return passage to India post commissioning in Russia
• CONCLUSION OF SLINEX-2025 India PIB 21 Aug 2025 -- The 12th edition of the India - Sri Lanka bilateral naval exercise SLINEX-25 successfully concluded at Colombo on 18 Aug 2025, reaffirming shared commitment and maritime security
• General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI, NI (M), Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), while on an official visit to Uzbekistan, called on H.E. Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Major General Shukhrat Kholmukhamedov, Minister of Defence, and Lieutenant General Victor Makhmudov, Secretary National Security Council. ISPR Pakistan 21 Aug 2025
• Iran stages large-scale naval exercise following 12-day war, Arab media reports IRNA 21 Aug 2025 -- Iran's Navy has conducted the "Sustainable Power 1404" missile drill to demonstrate and enhance its military capabilities following a recent 12-day war imposed by the Israeli regime, according to comprehensive coverage by Arab news sources.
• Defense Ministry: Achievements turned Iran into hub of regional deterrence IRNA 21 Aug 2025 -- The Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics says the achievements of the "children of the nation" in missile, weaponry, aerospace, and defense technology have transformed the Islamic Republic of Iran into a hub of defensive power and deterrence in the region.
• Iranian cruise missiles blast their targets during Eqtedar 1404 exercise IRNA 21 Aug 2025 -- Iran's Navy simultaneously launched several cruise missiles from both coastal batteries and surface vessels, successfully destroying a designated surface target during the Eqtedar 1404 missile exercise.
• IRGC chief: Iran stands 'at the peak of its deterrence power' Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- Commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Major General Mohammad Pakpour has stressed the importance of self-reliance in defense and comprehensive power-building in a message marking Iran's National Defense Industry Day.
• Sustainable Power 1404 drills: Iran's Nasir, Qadir, Qader ant-ship cruise missiles destroy targets Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- The missile systems and naval units of the Iranian Navy have successfully destroyed their surface targets at sea using the Qadir and Nasir cruise missiles, as well as the Qader medium-range anti-ship cruise missile.
• Strengthening defense power Iran's sole shield against threats: Top general Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- The top Iranian military official has underlined the need to keep strengthening defense power and deterrence capability as the only way to protect the country against external threats.
• UK set to sign $2.69bn contract with Israel's Elbit to train British soldiers Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- Britain is reportedly poised to sign a £2 billion ($2.69 billion) contract with Israel's largest arms manufacturer that would enable it to train 60,000 British soldiers annually, according to a report from Private Eye magazine.
• Deputy National Armaments Director receives foreign defence attachés Swiss Government 22 Aug 2025 -- The Deputy National Armaments Director Thomas Rothacher will receive the defence attachés accredited in Switzerland from ten countries on 21 August 2025. The traditional professional exchange will take place in Bern and Spiez.
• Defence helicopter, plane decisions announced New Zealand Government 21 Aug 2025 -- Seahawk helicopters and Airbus planes are set to replace aging New Zealand Defence Force aircraft in the first major investment decisions to be made as part of the Government's Defence Capability Plan (DCP).
• G7: Statement of the G7 Non-Proliferation Directors Group European External Action Service (EEAS) 21 Aug 2025 -- We, the G7 Non-Proliferation Directors Group, seek a safer, more prosperous world, with undiminished security for all. We are convinced that, in an increasingly uncertain security environment, meaningful progress on disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control will require sustained engagement and mutual understanding from all concerned parties. We also recognize the value of incorporating a variety of perspectives in disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control decision-making processes. We pledge to lead by example, fostering dialogue, cooperation, and transparency as we collectively confront these challenges. We invite all States who share our vision to join us in these efforts.
• PH, Aussie troops hold land warfare drills in N. Ecija Philippine News Agency 21 Aug 2025 -- Filipino and Australian troops taking part in this year's Exercise "ALON" are now conducting intensive land warfare drills to ensure greater operability between the two services, the Philippine Army (PA) said Thursday.
• PCG boosts maritime security with UAV modernization program Philippine News Agency 21 Aug 2025 -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is expanding the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to bolster maritime surveillance, coastal monitoring, and emergency response as part of its modernization program.
• Australia deepens defense ties with PH, Malaysia Philippine News Agency 21 Aug 2025 -- Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Richard Marles is set to visit Manila "this week" with the goal of "further strengthening our already close defence ties."
• AFP reaffirms 'unified approach' vs. emerging security threats Philippine News Agency 21 Aug 2025 -- Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. has reaffirmed the military's commitment to address emerging security threats with a "unified and integrated approach."
• PH Army aircraft holds 4-day maritime patrol in northeastern Luzon Philippine News Agency 21 Aug 2025 -- The Philippine Army (PA) on Thursday announced that its Cessna 172L aircraft held a series of maritime air patrol (MARPAT) missions over the coastal areas of Northeastern Luzon from Aug. 16 to 19, as part of its maritime domain awareness efforts.
• EU and US publish Joint Statement on transatlantic trade and investment European Commission 21 Aug 2025 -- The EU and US have issued a Joint Statement establishing a framework for fair, balanced and mutually beneficial transatlantic trade and investment. This Joint Statement confirms and builds on the political agreement reached by President von der Leyen and President Trump on 27 July.
• Questions and answers on the EU-US Joint Statement on Transatlantic Trade and Investment * European Commission 21 Aug 2025
• Remarks by Commissioner Šefčovič on the EU-US trade relations European Commission 21 Aug 2025
• Secretary Rubio's Call with New Zealand Minister for Foreign Affairs Peters US Dept. of State 21 Aug 2025
• Secretary Rubio's Call with Ugandan President Museveni US Dept. of State 21 Aug 2025
• Minister Anand meets with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington, D.C. Canada 21 Aug 2025
• Prime Minister Carney speaks with President of the United States Donald J. Trump Prime Minister of Canada 21 Aug 2025
• Secretary Rubio's Meeting with Canadian Foreign Minister Anand US Dept. of State 21 Aug 2025

Defense Industry

• Contracts For Aug. 21, 2025

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News
• 21 August 2025 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 21 Aug 2025

Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood | Operation Northern Arrows | Giddeon's Chariots

• PM Netanyahu at the Gaza Division Israel - Prime Minister 21 Aug 2025
• PM's Office Announcement on behalf of Coordinator for the Hostages and the Missing Brig.-Gen. (Res.) Gal Hirsch Israel - Prime Minister 21 Aug 2025
• Prime Minister's Office Statement Israel - Prime Minister 21 Aug 2025
• Israel pushes Gaza City assault despite mounting global calls for ceasefire Global Times 21 Aug 2025 -- Israel pressed ahead with the first stages of its planned assault on Gaza City on Wednesday, mobilizing 60,000 reservists in an expanded operation, despite mounting global calls for a ceasefire, NBC News reported. The escalation came as the US announced sanctions on four International Criminal Court (ICC) officials in a move an analyst said underscored Washington's continued backing for Israel.
• As Israeli forces creep up on Gaza City, Hamas warns: 'Occupation won't achieve its objectives' Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- The Israeli regime has begun deploying its forces on the outskirts of Gaza City in preparation for implementing its scheme to occupy the Gaza Strip's largest urban area, but Hamas has warned that Tel Aviv would fall short of realizing its ambitions.
• War Is Netanyahu's Political Lifeline - Palestinian Presidential Aide Sputnik 21 Aug 2025 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is deliberately prolonging the war in Gaza to avert the collapse of his political career, according to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' advisor Mahmoud al-Habbash.
• West Bank settler expansion scheme threatens Palestinian life: UN People's Daily 21 Aug 2025 -- Israel's West Bank settlement expansion plan negatively affects Palestinians and increases the risk of displacement, UN humanitarians said on Wednesday.
• Amid massive destruction of Gaza City, UN chief renews ceasefire call UN News 21 Aug 2025 -- With intensifying Israeli activity in and around Gaza City reportedly continuing on Thursday, UN chief António Guterres renewed his urgent call for a ceasefire, as Palestinians fled intense airstrikes, artillery shelling and gunfire.
• UN chief repeats call for immediate ceasefire as Israel launches Gaza City assault IRNA 21 Aug 2025 -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has repeated his call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza as the Israeli regime launches a new large-scale offensive to occupy Gaza City and forcibly displace its residents.
• US seeking billions to replenish arms sent to support Israel: Report Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- The Pentagon is seeking $3.5 billion in emergency funds to replace weapons and military systems used to back Israel, according to reports citing budget documents.
• Iran, Egypt censure Israel's plan to take over Gaza, relocate residents Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- Iran and Egypt have strongly condemned Israel's "illegal and criminal" plans for the military occupation of Gaza City and the forced displacement of its residents.
• Statement on Israel's West Bank settlements Poland - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 21 Aug 2025
• Aboul Gheit denounces occupation's approval of settlement plan undermining two-state solution League of Arab States 21 Aug 2025 -- Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, strongly condemned the plan approved by the Israeli government in the E1 area east of Jerusalem, stressing that it poses a serious threat to the prospects of realising the two-state solution and establishing a contiguous Palestinian state.
• Emergency Ministerial Meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to Discuss the Ongoing Israeli Aggression against the Palestinian People Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) 21 Aug 2025 -- Preparations are underway to hold an extraordinary meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states to discuss the ongoing Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people, on Monday, 25 August 2025.
• On the 56th Anniversary of the Heinous Arson that Struck the Blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) 21 Aug 2025 -- These days mark the painful 56th anniversary of the heinous attempt to set fire to the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque, the first Qibla (direction of prayer) and the third holiest site in Islam.
• International condemnation of Israel's E1 settlement plan in occupied West Bank Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- Israel's recent approval of the E1 colonial settlement plan in the occupied West Bank has drawn widespread international condemnation from over 20 countries, including several European Union members.
• Saudi Arabia Strongly Condemns Israeli Crimes Against Palestinians SPA 21 Aug 2025 -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia condemns in the strongest possible terms the Israeli occupation authorities' persistence in their crimes against the Palestinian people and their occupied land, and their ongoing attempts to displace them and prevent the establishment of their independent state. This includes their ongoing expansion of settlement construction around occupied Jerusalem and the expansion of their operations and aggression, amounting to crimes of genocide against defenseless civilians in the Gaza Strip
• Spain deeply regrets announcement of new US sanctions against International Criminal Court Spain MFA 21 Aug 2025
• Statement by Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on Israel's attack on Gaza City Government of Norway 21 Aug 2025
• Occupied Palestinian Territories: joint statement, 21 August 2025 UK FCDO 21 Aug 2025 -- The UK and 22 international partners gave a joint statement on the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
• Media Freedom Coalition statement on foreign media access to Gaza UK FCDO 21 Aug 2025 -- Joint statement on behalf of 27 countries on foreign media access to Gaza
• UK summons Israeli Ambassador following approval of E1 settlement plan UK FCDO 21 Aug 2025 -- The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has summoned the Israeli Ambassador today following the Israeli Higher Planning Commission's decision to approve the E1 settlement plan
• Houthi: Israeli atrocities part of 'Greater Israel' expansion scheme Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- The leader of Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement has vehemently denounced the Israeli atrocities in the occupied West Bank and across the war-torn Gaza Strip, stating they fall within the framework of the so-called "Greater Israel" plan.

Other Conflicts

• UN rights chief decries 'relentless intensification' of US sanctions against International Criminal Court staff UN News 21 Aug 2025 -- The United States must stop ramping up sanctions against officials with the International Criminal Court (ICC), UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk said on Thursday.
• US sanctions on ICC judges 'blatant complicity in Israeli war crimes, genocide': Iran FM spox Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- The spokesman for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has censured the United States' announcement of a new round of sanctions targeting members of the International Criminal Court (ICC), stating that the measure attests to Washington's complicity with the Israeli regime in the bloody military campaign against Palestinians.
• Presidency of the Assembly of States Parties expresses deep concern and objects to additional U.S. sanctions targeting ICC elected officials ICC 21 Aug 2025 -- The Presidency of the Assembly of States Parties notes with deep concern the additional sanctions announced by the Government of the United States against two Judges and the Deputy Prosecutors of the International Criminal Court.
• Türk denounces intensification of US reprisals against International Criminal Court personnel OHCHR 21 Aug 2025 -- UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk on Thursday said the imposition by the United States of America of further sanctions on judges and deputy prosecutors of the International Criminal Court should prompt the international community to take measures to protect them.
• Today's top news: Occupied Palestinian Territory, Syria, Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ukraine UNOCHA 21 Aug 2025
• Lithuania emphasizes the importance of legal responsibility amid a significant increase in cases of sexual violence in conflicts Lithuania MFA 21 Aug 2025 -- Lithuania's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Rytis Paulauskas, participating in the UN Security Council's open debate on sexual violence in conflict, highlighted the rapidly growing number of cases of conflict-related sexual violence, which has increased by as much as 25 percent in recent years.
• Report series on South China Sea reveals external forces' interference in regional affairs Global Times 21 Aug 2025 -- External forces' use of the South China Sea issue as a lever to contain China is the root cause of persistent tensions in the region, according to a report series on the truth on the South China Sea globally released on Thursday.
• China's sovereignty over Nanhai Zhudao rests on solid legal foundations: report People's Daily 21 Aug 2025 -- China's sovereignty over Nanhai Zhudao, known in English as the South China Sea islands, rests on solid legal foundations, including the principles of discovery and occupation, effective jurisdiction, estoppel, and other relevant international law principles governing territorial acquisition, according to a think tank report issued Thursday.
• China pursues friendly policy toward all Afghan people: FM spokesperson Global Times 21 Aug 2025 -- Regarding Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to Afghanistan, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated on Thursday that Wang said China has always advocated equality among countries, regardless of size, and that all countries should treat each other as equals and pursue win-win cooperation.
• China hopes for new era in Afghanistan with FM Wang's Kabul visit Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- China says it hopes to work closely with Afghanistan to promote the development of bilateral ties after its Foreign Minister Wang Yi paid a landmark visit to Kabul.
• Foreign Ministers of China, Afghanistan and Pakistan Hold the Sixth Dialogue PRC MofA 21 Aug 2025 -- On August 20, 2025 local time, the Sixth China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Trilateral Foreign Ministers' Dialogue was held in Kabul, Afghanistan. Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, and Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar attended the dialogue.
• Chinese, Afghan, Pakistani foreign ministers convene in Kabul, vowing to deepen cooperation and combat terrorism Global Times 21 Aug 2025 -- Top diplomats from China, Afghanistan and Pakistan attended the sixth China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Dialogue in in Kabul, Afghanistan on Wednesday. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the three parties should improve the security dialogue mechanism, deepen law enforcement and security cooperation and step up efforts to combat cross-border terrorist activities.
• Israeli forces keep raiding southern Syria amid HTS inaction Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- Israeli forces have escalated their offensives by launching fresh raids and arresting a number of activists in southern Syria.
• Statement by Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria, Adam Abdelmoula, on the United Nations Scale-Up of Humanitarian Response in As-Sweida Amid Escalating Needs (21 August 2025) UNOCHA 21 Aug 2025
• Syria: UN experts alarmed by attacks on Druze communities, including sexual violence against women and girls OHCHR 21 Aug 2025 -- UN experts* today sounded the alarm over a wave of armed attacks on Syrian Druze communities in and around Sweida Governorate since 13 July 2025, with reports of killings, enforced disappearances, abductions, looting, destruction of property, and sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls.
• Syria Needs International Support on 'Epic Scale', Special Envoy Tells Security Council, Stressing Threat of Renewed Conflict 'Ever Present' UN Security Council 21 Aug 2025 -- Syria needs tangible international support on an "epic scale", a senior United Nations official told the Security Council today, as he warned that — while violence in Sweida has largely subsided following a ceasefire — the threat of renewed conflict is ever present.
• The UK welcomes the ceasefire in Southern Syria but is concerned by the continued difficulty of aid access: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 21 Aug 2025 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Syria.
• Syria: Political transition on 'a knife-edge' amid military skirmishes UN News 21 Aug 2025 -- The UN Special Envoy for Syria briefed the Security Council on Thursday, saying that amid a strained ceasefire and military skirmishes in Syria, the political transition "remains on a knife's edge".
• At Security Council, UN Relief Chief warns funding gaps threaten lifesaving aid in Syria UNOCHA 21 Aug 2025 -- Briefing to the Security Council on the humanitarian situation in Syria by Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator
• Xi stresses building modern socialist new Xizang PRC MND 21 Aug 2025 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday urged Xizang Autonomous Region to build a modern socialist new Xizang that is united, prosperous, civilized, harmonious and beautiful.
• Xi urges concerted efforts for modernization when meeting representatives from across Xizang People's Daily 21 Aug 2025 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday urged concerted efforts to write a splendid chapter of Chinese modernization in Xizang Autonomous Region when he met with representatives from all ethnic groups and all walks of life in the plateau region.
• Xi stresses building modern socialist new Xizang People's Daily 21 Aug 2025 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday urged Xizang Autonomous Region to build a modern socialist new Xizang that is united, prosperous, civilized, harmonious and beautiful.
• Xi: Build a united, prosperous new Xizang People's Daily 21 Aug 2025 -- President Xi Jinping has emphasized prioritizing efforts to maintain political stability, social harmony, ethnic solidarity and amity among religions in the Xizang autonomous region, ahead of a grand gathering in celebration of the region's 60th founding anniversary to be held on Thursday.
• Free, fair, transparent and inclusive national elections would be a major step in Libya's political transition: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 21 Aug 2025 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Libya.
• Libya: Security Council urged to back popular 'yearning' for national elections UN News 21 Aug 2025 -- Recent elections in Libya are a sure sign of the people's desire to choose their own representatives, the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative for the country said in the Security Council on Thursday.
• Libya Still Mired in Political Deadlock, Fragile Security, Special Representative Tells Security Council, Outlining Road Map towards Successful National Elections UN Security Council 21 Aug 2025 -- While the Libyan people have shown remarkable determination to exercise their democratic rights in recent municipal elections, the country remains mired in political deadlock, fragile security, economic hardship and human rights concerns, a senior UN official told the Security Council this afternoon.
• Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide and Minister of International development Åsmund Aukrust on the attack on a WFP aid convoy in Darfur, Sudan Government of Norway 21 Aug 2025

News Reports

• 2025 NZSIS Security Threat Environment report New Zealand Security Intelligence Service 21 Aug 2025 -- The New Zealand Security Intelligence Service has warned the country is facing one of the most challenging national security environments in recent times. The NZSIS has just released its third annual Security Threat Environment report which outlines its assessment of violent extremism, foreign interference and espionage in New Zealand.
• Ohio Siblings Sentenced for Laundering $784,045 in Drug Proceeds US Dept. of Justice 21 Aug 2025 -- An Ohio brother and sister were sentenced to federal prison for their roles in collecting drug proceeds in the United States and laundering those funds, or their equivalent value, back to Mexico on behalf of a cartel.
• Chinese National Who Deployed "Kill Switch" Code on Employer's Network Sentenced to Four Years in Prison US Dept. of Justice 21 Aug 2025 -- A Chinese national was sentenced today to four years in prison and three years of supervised release for writing and deploying malicious code on his then-employer's network.
• Survivors' voices 'integral' to preventing terrorism UN News 21 Aug 2025 -- Terror attack survivors came together to bear witness at UN Headquarters on Thursday, emphasising that their voices must not be sidelined in shaping policy and driving efforts to prevent future atrocities.
• Ukrainian Arrested In Connection To 2022 Nord Stream Explosions RFE/RL 21 Aug 2025 -- A Ukrainian national has been arrested in Italy in connection with explosions, carried out in 2022, that damaged the Nord Stream gas pipelines.
• Ukrainian Suspect in Nord Stream Sabotage Arrested in Italy - German Prosecutors Sputnik 21 Aug 2025 -- German prosecutors have announced the arrest of Ukrainian citizen Sergei K. in Italy, suspected of coordinating the sabotage of the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines in 2022.
• MFA statement on note of protest sent to Russian Federation Poland - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 21 Aug 2025
• India, Russia aim for $100bn trade despite US pushback Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- India has disclosed plans to increase its annual trade with Russia to $100 billion by 2030, despite US opposition to the growing cooperation between Moscow and New Delhi.
• Prosecutors Fine Top Official At Yeltsin Presidential Library For Anti-War Post RFE/RL 21 Aug 2025 -- Russian prosecutors fined a top official at the Yeltsin Center, the library and cultural center dedicated to the late Russian president, after she re-posted an anti-war message on social media.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on August 21, 2025 PRC MofA 21 Aug 2025
• Wang Yi: 21st Century Should Be An Era of Accelerated Development and Revitalization for Asia, Especially South Asia PRC MofA 21 Aug 2025 -- On August 21, 2025 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar jointly met the press after the Sixth Round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue in Islamabad.
• China deplores and opposes NZ's groundless accusation of 'foreign interference' Global Times 21 Aug 2025 -- In response to a media inquiry on New Zealand's security service accusing China of being the most active country engaged in foreign interference in New Zealand, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said on Thursday that China deplores and opposes it.
• Chinese embassy in New Zealand voices opposition to newly released report claiming 'threats from China' Global Times 21 Aug 2025 -- The Chinese Embassy in New Zealand on Thursday firmly rejected and strongly opposed the newly released report by the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service that claimed there are threats from China. The report, full of groundless speculation and baseless accusations, once again smears China, the embassy said, noting that the report is nothing less than a "textbook of disinformation" and may itself be the product of an upgraded version of foreign interference.
• India's so-called 'clarification' came as a surprise: Chinese FM spokesperson Global Times 21 Aug 2025 -- Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Thursday that the Indian side's so-called "clarification" on Taiwan question came as a surprise, and expressed hope that India will earnestly abide by the one-China principle.
• Forming communist parties, student groups not illegal in Taiwan: MAC CNA 21 Aug 2025 -- Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) on Thursday said that forming political parties or student groups that advocate communism is not against the law, following media reports about a "communist party" being established at one of the country's top senior high schools.
• Taiwan, U.S. sign MOU on combating cross-border drug trafficking CNA 21 Aug 2025 -- Taiwan and the United States earlier this week signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to enhance two-way intelligence sharing and jointly combat transnational drug trafficking, the de facto U.S. embassy in Taiwan announced on Thursday.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 21 Aug 2025
• 26-month sentence given to former Air Force major who spied for China upheld CNA 21 Aug 2025 -- The Supreme Court on Thursday upheld a 26-month prison term for a former Air Force major convicted of spying for Chinese intelligence, while remanding another 10-month sentence to a lower court.
• US commerce secretary reiterates US 'cannot rely on Taiwan' chips, drawing criticism from island netizens Global Times 21 Aug 2025 -- The US must manufacture its own chips domestically while cannot rely on the island of Taiwan, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick warned in a latest interview with CNBC. The US official's remarks have drawn criticism among netizens of the island of Taiwan on Facebook.
• Hydroelectric Power Sector of DPRK Increases Electricity Production KCNA 21 Aug 2025 -- The hydroelectric power sector of the DPRK produces more electricity every day than planned in August.
• War "Outing" of Old "British Empire" Will Not End in Pleasant Journey: KCNA Commentary KCNA 21 Aug 2025 -- An escort ship belonging to the carrier task force Prince of Wales of the British Navy, which was involved in the U.S.-led multi-national military drills in the west Pacific region, recently entered the Pusan operation base in the ROK.
• Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Meets Leading Commanding Officers of Overseas Operation Unit of KPA KCNA 21 Aug 2025 -- 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, met with the leading commanding officers of the overseas operation unit of the Korean People's Army who returned home to participate in the ceremony of awarding the state commendations of the DPRK at the headquarters building of the Central Committee of the WPK on August 20.
• UK sanctions networks enabling Iran's destabilising activity UK FCDO 21 Aug 2025 -- The UK has announced sanctions against those whose revenue supports Iran's destabilising activities.
• Iran denounces 'unacceptable' UK sanctions on 'baseless pretexts' Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- Iran has condemned fresh sanctions imposed by the United Kingdom against the Islamic Republic, slamming them as "fundamentally unacceptable."
• Iran condemns illegal sanctions by British government IRNA 21 Aug 2025 -- The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in London issued a strongly worded statement condemning the British government's illegal and unilateral sanctions against some Iranian institutions and individuals.
• Sanctioning Facilitators of Iran's Illicit Oil Sales US Dept. of State 21 Aug 2025 -- Today, the United States is stemming the flow of revenue the Iranian regime uses to fund its destabilizing activities, including its support for terrorism abroad and the oppression of its own people.
• Sanctions on Iran's Oil Network to Further Impose Maximum Pressure on Iran US Dept. of State 21 Aug 2025 -- Fact Sheet
• Treasury Targets Iranian Oil Exports and Shadow Fleet US Treasury 21 Aug 2025 -- Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is further disrupting Iran's oil exports by imposing sanctions on Greek national Antonios Margaritis, his network of companies, and nearly a dozen vessels involved in Iran's shadow fleet. Margaritis has leveraged his decades of experience in the shipping industry to illicitly facilitate the transportation and sale of Iranian petroleum. Several other vessels and operators are also being designated today for their role facilitating Iranian oil exports, which generates revenue that contributes to Iran's advanced weapons programs.
• Iran: UN experts alarmed by escalating threats against Iran International media workers and their families OHCHR 21 Aug 2025 -- UN experts* today condemned Iran's intensifying repression of Iran International journalists worldwide, as well as the growing intimidation of their family members living in Iran - particularly since hostilities with Israel in June 2025.
• Iran's breakthrough in power generation amid critical supply imbalance Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- Iran's unveiling of the MGT-75 gas turbine marks a significant milestone not only in its energy sector but also in the broader economic landscape, signaling a pivotal shift toward technological self-reliance and enhanced energy security.
• Russia: European states 'snapback' activation push fundamentally illegal Press TV 21 Aug 2025 -- A senior Russian diplomat has roundly rejected the UK, France, and Germany's push to invoke the so-called "snapback" mechanism inside the UN Security Council Resolution 2231 that has endorsed a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world countries, including the trio.
• PM Narendra Modi receives a telephone call from President Macron India MEA 21 Aug 2025 -- Today, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi received a phone call from the President of the French Republic H.E. Emmanuel Macron.
• Meeting with Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar President of Russia 21 Aug 2025 -- Vladimir Putin met in the Kremlin with Minister of External Affairs of the Republic of India, co-chair of the Intergovernmental Russian-Indian Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical and Cultural Cooperation Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.
• Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's statement and answers to media questions at a joint news conference following talks with Minister of External Affairs of India Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Moscow, August 21, 2025 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 21 Aug 2025
• Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's talks with India's Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 21 Aug 2025
• Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks during talks with India's Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Moscow, August 21, 2025 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 21 Aug 2025
• "Shubhanshu's Space voyage vindicates the vision of an Atmanirbhar and Vishwabandhu Bharat": Dr Jitendra Singh India PIB 21 Aug 2025 -- Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr
• PARLIAMENT QUESTION: STARTUPS IN THE SPACE SECTOR India PIB 21 Aug 2025
• PARLIAMENT QUESTION: SUPPORT TO STATES FOR THEIR INITIATIVES IN THE SPACE SECTOR India PIB 21 Aug 2025 -- Government of India through IN-SPACe, Department of Space, has sought willingness from state governments to establish spacemanufacturing clusters in their respective states. IN-SPACe will establish Common Technical Facilities within the space manufacturingclusters which will have capital intensive infrastructure required for realising the space systems.
• PARLIAMENT QUESTION: SATELLITE DATA FOR AGRICULTURE, WATER RESOURCES AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT India PIB 21 Aug 2025 -- Paddy crop mapping, Kharif sown area, weekly sowing & harvesting progress, drought monitoring; groundwater prospects, recharge plan and quality mapping at 1:50,000 scale; monitoring of water spread of waterbodies of size greater than 1 ha (8,368 no
• Prime Minister of Pakistan meets Foreign Minister of China Pakistan - Prime Miinister's Office 21 Aug 2025
• Wang Yi Holds China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue with Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar PRC MofA 21 Aug 2025 -- On August 21, 2025 local time, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi co-chaired the Sixth Round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue with Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar in Islamabad.
• Chinese FM holds strategic dialogue with Pakistani counterpart Global Times 21 Aug 2025 -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, co-chaired the Sixth Round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue with Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar here on Thursday.
• Monsoon floods kill more than 700 in Pakistan, with heavy rains set to continue UN News 21 Aug 2025 -- Heavy monsoon rains and flash floods have killed at least 739 people across Pakistan since late June, displacing thousands and destroying homes and crops, with more severe weather expected in the weeks ahead, according to UN agencies and national authorities.
• What's Behind The Eruption Of Violence At Protests In Serbia? RFE/RL 21 Aug 2025 -- A wave of protests that began in Serbia in November 2024 have entered a new phase, with daily clashes between demonstrators and police since August 12, when violence broke out in the northern cities of Vrbas and Backa Palanka.
• FM Sa'ar meets with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema in Lusaka Israel MFA 21 Aug 2025 -- FM Sa'ar to Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema: "This is an alliance of believers in ancient traditions, based on the Bible."