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Defense News ,Ukraine :- China recently conveyed a stern message to Ukraine, cautioning that their diplomatic ties might suffer repercussions following Kyiv's classification of over a dozen Chinese companies as "international sponsors of war," as disclosed by two senior Ukrainian sources familiar with the situation, who spoke to Reuters on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.The warning was reportedly delivered last month during a meeting between China's ambassador to Kyiv and senior Ukrainian government officials. Despite requests for comment, China's foreign ministry, the Chinese embassy in Kyiv, and Ukraine's foreign ministry remained silent on the issue.While maintaining close ties with Moscow and refraining from criticizing Russia's invasion of Ukraine, China has expressed a commitment to respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. Additionally, Beijing has offered mediation assistance in the ongoing conflict.Ukraine, however, has taken a bold stance by identifying 48 global companies, including 14 from China, as "international sponsors of war." The Ukrainian government contends that the business activities of these companies indirectly contribute to Russia's war efforts.According to one source, the Chinese ambassador conveyed concerns about the potential negative impact on bilateral relations due to the blacklist. Notably, China did not impose any specific conditions or temporary frameworks on Ukraine but expressed its viewpoint regarding the contentious list.The second source suggested a potential link between the matter and Chinese purchases of Ukrainian grain, raising questions about the economic ramifications for Ukraine.Prior to Russia's full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, China was Ukraine's largest trade partner, remaining a significant consumer of Ukrainian grain, sunflower oil, and iron ore. The current situation has placed strain on these economic ties.The blacklist, while lacking legal implications for the listed firms, criticizes extensive cooperation between Chinese and Russian companies, particularly in the oil and gas sectors, which constitute the main revenue sources for Moscow.Promoted by Ukraine's National Agency for Corruption Prevention as a "powerful reputational tool," the blacklist aims to influence global supply chains and encourage the withdrawal of international business from Russia.Despite China's alliance with Russia, Ukraine has been cautious not to provoke the world's second-largest economy and has repeatedly called on Beijing to support diplomatic efforts for peace. However, China's absence from certain high-level international meetings has raised questions about its commitment to these diplomatic endeavors.China, previously a vital destination for Ukrainian food exports, has witnessed a decline in trade, especially since the defunct UN-brokered grain corridor established after Russia's invasion. With China having the most companies on the blacklist, Ukraine's Black Sea shipping corridor, established in August, has seen a significant portion of maritime exports directed towards China.In ongoing diplomatic exchanges, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong met with Ukraine's ambassador to Beijing, expressing the importance of mutual respect between the two countries while discussing issues of common concern.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-01 16:12:17

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Defense News ,Romania :- On January 17, the Romanian Armed Forces achieved a milestone by conducting a highly successful live firing exercise featuring the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) in partnership with the U.S. Army's 4th Security Forces Assistance Brigade (SFAB). Spearheaded by the Romanian 8th Field Artillery Brigade, this joint effort marked a significant advancement in bolstering readiness and fostering interoperability among NATO allies.U.S. Army Major Zachary Busenbark, commander of Alpha Battery, 4th Battalion, 4th SFAB, and leader of the SFAB Field Artillery Advisor Team, underscored the crucial importance of interoperability with NATO forces and partner nations. He emphasized the regional emphasis on maximizing interoperability in Europe to ensure effective training and collaboration in potential combined team efforts. The HIMARS launchers employed by the Romanian Land Forces represent cutting-edge U.S. missile and rocket systems, capable of launching both the Guided M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System and the MGM-140 Army Tactical Missile System. These systems boast impressive ranges, with the MLRS rocket reaching approximately 70 kilometers and the ATACMS extending up to 300 kilometers.Major Busenbark highlighted the exercise's comprehensive approach, focusing on human, procedural, and technical interoperability domains. The primary goal was to enhance team efficiency and lethality in potential coalition combat scenarios.This live firing exercise not only elevated mission readiness for both Romanian and U.S. forces but also served as valuable preparation for the upcoming NATO Combat Readiness Evaluation scheduled for the following year.Task Force 82, hailing from the 82nd Airborne Division, played a pivotal role in ensuring the security of allies and partners, deterring adversaries, and reinforcing NATO security force assistance in the Black Sea region. Their involvement underscored the collective commitment to maintaining a strong and unified front in the face of potential challenges.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-01 15:40:00

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Defense News ,U.S :- Leonardo DRS has marked a significant achievement by delivering the 1,000th Solaris ruggedized laser system, a pivotal component of Northrop Grumman’s cutting-edge Common Infrared Countermeasures (CIRCM) system. Designed to safeguard rotary wing, tilt rotor, and small fixed-wing platforms utilized by the U.S. armed services, CIRCM represents the next generation in aircraft protection against a variety of missile threats.Expressing pride in the collaboration, Dr. Timothy Day, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Leonardo DRS Daylight Solutions business unit, emphasized their commitment to providing technology that keeps aircraft and aircrews out of harm’s way. The Solaris laser, a core element of Northrop Grumman’s 5th generation IRCM technology, serves to 'dazzle' the missile’s infrared guidance system, allowing the aircraft to safely evade the impending threat. The modular and expandable design of the Solaris Line Replaceable Unit ensures adaptability to future threats.In recognition of this milestone, U.S. Army and Northrop Grumman program officials are set to visit Leonardo DRS's production facility in San Diego. The visit aims to celebrate the delivery of the 1,000th Solaris unit for the CIRCM program and commend the dedication of employees who contribute to ensuring the safety of frontline pilots and aircrews.With an extensive installed base of laser technology across the U.S. military, Leonardo DRS remains strategically focused on advanced sensing capabilities. The company continues to provide world-leading sensing and laser technologies, supporting aircraft protection and a range of mounted and unmounted sensors crucial for the men and women of the U.S. armed forces.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-01 14:42:47

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Defense News ,Ukraine & Russia War :- In a recent development, Ukraine asserted its use of sea drones in sinking a Russian corvette in the Black Sea. Simultaneously, Russian investigators countered with allegations that a military transport plane crash last month was caused by two US-made Patriot missiles fired by Kyiv's forces. Ukraine's military intelligence agency, GUR, released a video on social media, claiming it depicted naval drones assaulting the Russian missile-armed cutter Ivanovets. The footage purportedly shows multiple drones crashing into the vessel and exploding. The incident reportedly occurred during the ship's patrol on Lake Donuzlav in western Crimea, with a GUR special unit carrying out the strike.Although the footage and claims have been presented, the ongoing disinformation in the two-year-long conflict makes independent verification challenging. Ambrey, a private security firm, reported that Ukraine employed up to six sea drones, each carrying approximately 300 kg (661 pounds) of explosives in the attack. The footage released by GUR indicates the sinking of the ship, valued between $60-$70 million. Russian officials have not immediately commented on the incident.The conflict's disinformation tactics continue, with the war entering its second anniversary on Feb 24. Ukrainian attacks on Russian aircraft and ships in the Black Sea have reportedly pushed Moscow's naval forces back, allowing Kyiv to increase crucial exports through southern ports. Ambrey raised concerns that any unexploded drones could pose a threat to Black Sea shipping.Meanwhile, the front line in eastern and southern Ukraine remains active, resulting in continued civilian casualties. In the Donetsk region, the Russian army shelled 11 towns and villages, leading to one fatality in the village of Tsukuryne and two injuries in Toretsk during a rocket attack. In the Kherson region, six civilians were wounded, including a husband and wife in Beryslav hit by a drone attack while riding a motorcycle through the city.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-01 14:36:15

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General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. has been granted a $17 million contract to deliver sustainment support services for the MQ-9 Reaper drones of the Italian Air Force. The contract, recently announced by the US State Department, encompasses engineering services, depot repair, spare parts delivery, and software maintenance services specifically for Italy's MQ-9 Block 1 and 5 aircraft.The contractual obligations will span across locations in California, Italy, and Kuwait, with completion anticipated by January 2025.Italy initially acquired four MQ-9 Reaper drones, also known as Predator B, from the US in 2008 for 90 million euros ($97 million).About the MQ-9 DroneThe MQ-9 Reaper is a remotely piloted turboprop aircraft designed for military intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. Boasting cutting-edge sensors, a multi-mode communications suite, and a fault-tolerant flight control system, it delivers enhanced overall performance. With a capacity for precision strike weapons, the drone is also capable of supporting combat operations.General Atomics reports that the MQ-9 exhibits a flight endurance of over 27 hours, a speed of 240 knots (444 kilometers/276 miles per hour), and a payload capacity of 3,850 pounds (1,746 kilograms).In December 2023, the Italian Air Force successfully conducted the maiden flight of its new MQ-9A drone in the Block 5 configuration. The upgraded unmanned platform features a substantial increase in electrical power generation, automatic takeoff and landing capabilities, as well as improved landing gear and datalink systems.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-01 14:27:44

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Defense News ,Israel :- In a recent incident reported by Ynet, a Shoval-type UAV experienced a technical malfunction during a routine mission in the Shephelah area after returning from the Gaza Strip. Following the crash landing, fire and rescue teams swiftly responded to extinguish a resulting fire.The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson stated, "A Shoval-type UAV fell this week during a routine activity in the Shephelah area. There were no casualties, and the incident will be investigated. The commander of the Air Force, Major General Tomer Bar, instructed that the Shoval formation will be grounded until the end of the investigation of the incident."This marks the second incident involving a Heron (Shoval) medium-sized UAV since the outbreak of conflict, with the first occurring during the intense ground maneuver in Gaza amid the Hamas-led October 7 massacres and hostage abductions.The IDF's decision to ground Squadron 200 for the investigation, as reported by Ynet, will not impact overall IDF drone operations. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) play a crucial role in intelligence gathering, supporting ground troops in the Gaza Strip, and executing attacks on enemy targets.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-01 05:48:05

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Defense News ,India:- The Biden administration has not yet informed the US Congress about its intention to supply 31 MQ-9B Predator long-endurance armed drones to India under a $3 billion government-to-government framework, according to sources familiar with the matter. Negotiations between India and the US are ongoing, with discussions focusing on various aspects of the proposed deal, including the pricing component. However, the pace of the negotiations has slowed down following allegations by US federal prosecutors linking an Indian individual to a failed plot to assassinate Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.US embassy spokesperson Chris Elms stated, "We continue to discuss with the US Congress the potential sale consistent with standard processes and policies guiding such arm sales decisions." Elms responded to a media report suggesting that Washington had blocked the drone sale to India until New Delhi conducts a thorough investigation into the failed assassination plot.As part of the standard process, the State Department routinely engages Congressional foreign affairs committees before formal notification to address questions from committee staff, Elms explained.Sources within the Indian defense establishment confirmed that talks on the multi-billion dollar deal are ongoing, but no clarity has been provided on when the procurement will be finalized. In November of the previous year, US federal prosecutors accused Indian national Nikhil Gupta of involvement in the foiled plot to kill Pannun, who holds dual citizenship of the US and Canada. India has established a probe committee to investigate the allegations against Gupta.The proposed deal involves India procuring 31 MQ-9B Predator long-endurance armed drones from the US under a government-to-government framework. While the cost of the drones will be determined during the negotiation process, it is estimated to be around USD 3 billion. The drones are intended to enhance the surveillance capabilities of the armed forces, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.The deal was discussed during talks between US Defense Secretary Lloyd J Austin and his Indian counterpart Rajnath Singh in Delhi in November. The Defence Acquisition Council approved the acquisition of 31 MQ-9B drones from the US under the foreign military sale route in June of the previous year. The Sea Guardian drones, which can carry out various roles, including maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and over-the-horizon targeting, will be distributed among the three services. The Indian Navy will receive 15 Sea Guardian drones, while the Indian Air Force and the Army will each receive eight Sky Guardian drones. These high-altitude long-endurance drones have the capability to remain airborne for over 35 hours and can carry four Hellfire missiles and approximately 450 kgs of bombs.In 2020, the Indian Navy leased two MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones from General Atomics for surveillance in the Indian Ocean, and the lease period has since been extended.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-01 05:45:26

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Defense News ,Russia :- Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed on Wednesday that a plane, carrying Ukrainian prisoners of war, was shot down using a US-made Patriot missile. The incident involved a Russian Il-76 cargo plane that crashed on January 24, prompting Putin to assert that forensics had confirmed the missile's involvement.In a televised appearance, Putin stated, "The plane was shot down, it has already been established for certain, by an American Patriot system." As of now, there has been no immediate response from Kyiv or Washington to Putin's remarks.While Ukrainian officials have not explicitly refuted Russia's version of events, they have raised questions about the true nature of the plane's cargo. Putin emphasized Russia's insistence on an international investigation into the incident, but noted a lack of willingness from international organizations to participate.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also called for an international inquiry. However, he expressed concerns that Russia's control over access to the crash site might impede a thorough investigation.Patriots are guided surface-to-air missiles with the capability to target aircraft or defensively intercept incoming missiles. The United States had agreed to send Patriot missile systems to Ukraine in late 2022, fulfilling months of requests from Kyiv.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-31 15:41:25

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Defense News ,Ukraine :- In the face of escalating Russian artillery fire, Ukrainian forces find themselves in need of more than just US-made HIMARS rockets, assert three prominent war experts. Michael Kofman and Dara Massicot from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, along with Rob Lee from the Foreign Policy Research Institute, emphasized in a recent commentary that Kyiv must diversify its defense tactics as Moscow has effectively countered US-supplied weaponry.The experts note that the invaders have strategically relocated high-value assets, such as ammunition depots, beyond the range of HIMARS rockets, diminishing the weapon's once-high efficacy. In response to these adjustments, the experts advocate for the extensive utilization of drones and other precision strike capabilities to effectively counter the increasing volume of Russian artillery fire.Highlighting the urgency of the situation, the experts call on Ukraine's Western military supporters to collaboratively brainstorm and implement alternative strategies to thwart Russia's intensifying attacks. Reflecting on past challenges, they stress that Ukraine's inability to overcome Russia's defenses with a quantitative advantage in artillery ammunition during the previous summer necessitates the development of new advantages for future offensives.A recent development in Ukraine's defense strategy includes the use of kamikaze drones striking deep into Russian territory, as reported by The Guardian. This innovative approach, known as "smart warfare," has targeted critical assets, such as oil and gas supply lines, including the Tuapse oil refinery in southern Russia.According to insights from Illia Ponomarenko, a former defense reporter for the Kyiv Independent, targeting assets crucial to Russia's economy holds the potential to cripple its financial system and impact the military's budget. This proactive use of drones to strike deep into Russian territory signifies Ukraine's acknowledgment of Moscow's superior military strength and its determination to discover strategic advantages in the ongoing conflict.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-31 15:35:40

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Defense News ,Balochistan :- In a prolonged gun battle with Balochistan Army in the southwest region of Pakistan, 15 individuals lost their lives, including four Pakistan servicemen and two civilians, according to the military's statement. Although provincial officials initially reported six militant casualties, the military later confirmed the death of "nine terrorists, including three suicide bombers," emphasizing the bravery of the fallen law enforcement members.The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), an armed separatist group, claimed responsibility for the coordinated attacks that targeted at least three state facilities overnight, including a paramilitary headquarters and a police station. Bolan Colony, an arid district with fortified hills, witnessed intense fighting, leaving behind charred remains of several trucks.Balochistan, Pakistan's largest and economically disadvantaged province, has been a historical battleground for ethnic separatist factions. The region, rich in natural resources, often experiences discontent among locals who feel deprived of their fair share of wealth from oil and gas reserves. Human rights groups highlight allegations of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings in the military crackdown on ethnic Baloch citizens.Tensions escalated in the region when Islamabad targeted BLA fighters in Iran, reciprocating Tehran's actions against anti-Iran militants sheltering in Pakistan. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges and complexities in the strife-torn Balochistan region.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-31 14:47:10

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Defense News ,New Zealand :- EPE New Zealand Limited (EPE), in partnership with Bertin Exensor, has successfully secured a contract from the New Zealand Ministry of Defence to equip the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) with cutting-edge Reconnaissance and Surveillance (R & S) capabilities under the Networked Enabled Army (NEA) Programme.The collaboration involves the delivery of the Flexnet Unattended Ground Sensor UGS system, a state-of-the-art technology designed by Bertin Exensor, aimed at elevating situational awareness and facilitating informed command decision-making across various command levels. As part of the agreement, EPE will provide specialist training and continuous through-life support locally in New Zealand through a Master Supply Agreement.This contract marks a significant milestone in providing New Zealand Army personnel with a versatile and scalable sensing platform, offering real-time situational awareness, early threat detection, and identification capabilities. The goal is to empower commanders to make swift, evidence-based decisions and respond effectively to potential threats.Bertin Exensor's proven capability is evident in the deployment or trial of Flexnet UGS technology in various countries, including the UK, Australia, USA, and multiple NATO nations.Marcus Rosenqvist, VP Sales & Marketing of Bertin Exensor AB, expressed pride in being selected alongside EPE to supply the latest generation of Flexnet UGS. This underscores the increasing global recognition and demand for this advanced technology in recent years.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-31 14:36:41

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Defense News ,Russia :- A recent intelligence report from the UK Ministry of Defence reveals that Russia maintains the capability to replace battlefield losses in Ukraine by producing a staggering 100 main battle tanks (MBTs) per month. Despite a noticeable increase in tank losses since October 2023, when Russia shifted back to an offensive stance in eastern Ukraine, Moscow's industrial capacity ensures it can sustain a high level of offensive activity against Ukraine in the foreseeable future.According to the report, Russian Ground Forces have lost 365 MBTs and 700 armored combat vehicles since October 2023, resulting in only minor territorial gains. The UK MoD did not provide details on how Russia managed to boost production amid international sanctions.A previous intelligence report indicated that Russia had lost 2,475 MBTs from February 2022 to mid-November 2023, constituting around 15 percent of its pre-war inventory. However, the latest figures released by the UK MoD on January 25, 2024, show a modest increase in Moscow's MBT losses to 2,600. This translates to a current attrition rate of 12 tanks per week, with Ukraine neutralizing only 125 Russian MBTs over the past 10 weeks.Highlighting Russia's ability to rapidly replenish battlefield losses, the defense ministry announced the induction of 1,500 tanks in 2023. The country boasts a tank sufficiency level exceeding 84 percent. Notably, the ministry did not specify the types of newly-inducted tanks or whether they are new models, leaving questions about the composition of Russia's formidable tank arsenal. Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine – 29 January 2024.Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: https://t.co/J67zk0ezE3 #StandWithUkraine 🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/RF9DtQco9r— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) January 29, 2024

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-31 14:20:52

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Defense News ,U.S :- In a recent incident, an American F-16 Fighting Falcon from the 8th Fighter Wing encountered an "in-flight emergency" over the West Sea off South Korea, leading to its crash early Wednesday, as confirmed by the US military. Fortunately, the pilot successfully ejected and was rescued promptly.The official statement from the military highlighted the effective collaboration with South Korean rescue forces during the operation. Colonel Matthew C. Gaetke, the commander of the 8th Fighter Wing, expressed gratitude for the quick recovery of the pilot and emphasized the shift in focus towards the search and recovery of the aircraft.The cause of the in-flight emergency remains undisclosed, pending thorough safety and accident investigations. This incident marks the third crash involving an American F-16 fighter jet in South Korea since May 2023.The most recent crash occurred during a routine training exercise, mirroring a similar event in December. In both instances, the pilots managed to eject safely, and the quick response of rescue teams contributed to their successful recovery.South Korea, a key security ally of the United States, has experienced these incidents as Washington maintains a significant military presence with approximately 28,500 troops stationed in the country. This presence is aimed at safeguarding South Korea from potential threats, particularly from North Korea.Meanwhile, in neighboring Japan, the US military took precautionary measures by grounding its fleet of V-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft following a fatal crash that claimed the lives of eight US airmen late last year.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-31 07:14:35

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Defense News ,Russia :- In a released video on Tuesday, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu announced Russia's intensified efforts to increase the production of air defense missiles. Shoigu highlighted crucial challenges that need immediate attention in the wake of drone attacks from Ukraine on Russian cities and energy infrastructure, occurring simultaneously with Moscow's ongoing military campaign against Kyiv.The footage, unveiled by the defense ministry, showcased Shoigu inspecting defense industry facilities in Yekaterinburg, a key industrial city in the Urals. The tour included visits to factories engaged in the manufacturing of sea- and ground-launched cruise missiles, as well as air defense systems.At one of the factories, Shoigu remarked, "There has been a significant increase in the volume of production. We have more than doubled production of the missiles needed for air defense." However, he emphasized the existence of pivotal issues requiring prompt attention, particularly concerning engines and the establishment of launcher production.The defense ministry shared the comprehensive footage on its Telegram messenger channel, reflecting Russia's commitment to transparency in its military developments. Recent months have seen Russian officials highlighting substantial advancements in the nation's military industrial capacity, aimed at fortifying its forces amid the ongoing deadlock in the campaign against Ukraine.The surge in attacks in recent weeks, some attributed to Ukrainian officials and others accused by the Kremlin of originating from Kyiv, has targeted Russian cities and vital oil and gas facilities. As tensions continue to escalate, Russia's strategic focus on enhancing its air defense capabilities becomes increasingly evident.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-31 07:10:37

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Defense News ,Middle East :- Kataib Hezbollah, an Iraqi Resistance faction, has declared a temporary suspension of its military operations against U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria. The decision aims to avoid embarrassing the Iraqi government and follows extensive discussions with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. The move toward "passive defense" is in response to perceived hostile actions by the United States.According to Farhad Alaadin, the Advisor for Foreign Affairs to the Iraqi Prime Minister, all sides are urged to support efforts to prevent any potential escalation. Pentagon spokesperson Major General Pat Ryder emphasized the significance of actions over words, citing recent attacks since January 28.Secretary-General Abu Hussein al-Hamidawi stated that Kataib Hezbollah will support the people of Gaza without foreign intervention, continuing defense through non-armed means. The faction's decision to adopt passive defense in the face of hostile U.S. actions was announced, with an acknowledgment that the specifics of their activities are not known to allied groups in the Axis of Resistance.Previously, Kataib Resistance had transitioned to the second phase of operations, focusing on blockading Mediterranean maritime routes to Israeli-occupied ports. This development came amid U.S. President Joe Biden's response to a drone strike that killed three American troops, blaming Iran for supplying weapons.Despite Biden's commitment to avoiding a wider conflict in the region, concerns were raised over multiple potential actions. The president acknowledged the need for a measured approach and expressed reluctance to escalate tensions, particularly with Iran. The White House issued a warning of forthcoming actions without divulging specifics, emphasizing a desire to prevent a broader war in the Middle East.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-31 07:07:39