Security advisor has warned that MPs are at risk of attack
A leading security expert who fears MPs are at heightened risk of attack has shared a roadmap for how safety can be improved. Author Philip Grindell, a former detective who advised Parliament on security for MPs after the killing of…
President Putin placed Russian nuclear bases on full alert prior to the war in Ukraine
A Russian deserter has revealed that President Vladimir Putin placed his nuclear bases on “full combat alert” for more than two years and “were ready to launch” strikes against western capitals. Details of Russia’s nuclear capability were revealed by a…
Sibanye-Stillwater leverages C5 Capital for uranium growth as Putin restricts exports
Sibanye-Stillwater sits on 27 million pounds of uranium at Beatrix mine in the Orange Free State and 32 million pounds on the surface in a tailings facility at its Cooke operations. The miner want to play a bigger role both upstream and downstream in the energy transition in the future.
South Africa at risk of being declared a threat to US security
The pressure to cancel the Agoa trade arrangement is a small matter compared to an initiative in the US Congress to declare South Africa a threat to US security, which will be considered by the Senate early in 2025.
OPINION: What Trump could learn from “Putin’s infiltration of South Africa” – Riva Levinson
Putin’s influence met resistance due to South Africans’ deep respect for their constitutional democracy, “We might not be so lucky the next time,” says Riva Levinson.
Ukraine fires US-supplied long range missiles into Russia
Ukraine has carried out its first strike on Russian territory with US-supplied long-range missiles. Six missiles were used in a strike on an ammunition depot in Karachev, around 75 miles from the Ukrainian border in Russia’s Bryansk region on what…
Poland constructs “Eastern Shield” to fortify NATO’s eastern flank
Poland is constructing a formidable new defence line, dubbed the “Eastern Shield”, to safeguard its borders with Russia’s heavily militarised exclave of Kaliningrad and Belarus. The £1.9 billion fortification, described by Polish officials as an “impassable boundary,” features advanced surveillance…
Trump’s deal-making and Africa critical minerals may benefit continent
The fact that Africans have better access to strategic minerals is going to work in the interest of Africa.
Urgent call for enhanced space rules and US-China-Russia diplomatic reset
Ambassador Holliday called for the re-establishment of robust diplomatic networks to prevent misunderstandings and conflicts in space.
Victory for Trump in the US presidential election
Donald Trump will return to the White House as America’s 47th president after victory in one of the most bitterly contested elections in the history of the United States. Trump was also on track to win the national popular vote,…
Ukraine to get £2.26bn loan from UK to help fight Russian invaders, and won’t have to pay it back
The UK government will give an extra £2.26bn ($2.93bn) to Ukraine to buy weapons, using the profits from seized Russian assets held in Europe. The cash forms Britain’s contribution to a £38bn ($50bn) fund announced in June by members of…
Hamas leader killed in Gaza
Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader who masterminded the murderous October 7th attacks, has been killed in Gaza, according to the Israeli government. The death of Sinwar, 61, the last surviving member of the terrorist organisation’s senior leadership, was confirmed by…
Axiom Space and Prada unveil revolutionary lunar spacesuit for NASA’s Artemis III mission
Axiom Space and Prada have revealed the design for the next-generation spacesuit that will be worn by astronauts during NASA’s Artemis III mission to the Moon. The unveiling took place at the International Astronautical Congress in Milan, Italy, and was…
Former Army chief General Sir Mike Jackson dies aged 80
General Sir Mike Jackson, the former Chief of the General Staff and one of Britain’s most high-profile military leaders, has died aged 80. Gen Jackson was seen as a tough and uncompromising soldier, known affectionately by his troops as “The…
Philippines seeks to deepen US ties amid rising tensions with China
A milestone in US relations was achieved this May, marking the beginning of collaboration to utilise space for maritime domain awareness.
Former Foreign Secretary David Cameron was planning to sanction “extremist” Israeli ministers
The former foreign secretary David Cameron has disclosed in a BBC interview that he had been planning to impose sanctions on two extremist members of the Israeli government over their support for violent settlers and calls to block aid entering…
The Army lawyer who accused British soldiers of committing war crimes in Iraq now faces being jailed for fraud
This story was originally published by The Telegraph. Phil Shiner made a string of high-profile accusations that the British Army abused Iraqi civilians, but now his world has come crashing down. Once upon a time, Phil Shiner was the superstar Left-wing lawyer…
Ukraine boosts military innovation to confront Russian hostilities independently
Ukraine is creating a new military industrial complex to strengthen its defence capability and reduce reliance on Western Allies.
Lebanon ceasefire calls lack clout, says senior military expert
Calls for a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hezbollah conflict are toothless, according to Col. Philip Ingram, a former British Army Intelligence Officer and NATO planner. Ingram added that it will also be very difficult to halt a military operation of…
From genocide to African policeman: Rwanda ventures into space
“We are thinking big because space is playing a key role in many different programmes, whether it’s in our agriculture, whether it’s in weather-related type of incidents, whether it’s in education.
Russian military Unit 29155 cyber saboteurs exposed
Western intelligence agencies have accused a Russian military unit consisting of assassins and saboteurs as being behind a number of cyber attacks related to the war in Ukraine. The Russian Military Intelligence (GRU) Unit 29155 unit was named as responsible…
Time is now for nuclear energy: Large-scale projects to revolutionise power
The huge cost of nuclear power stations will only decrease when nations start building them in large numbers, a leading industrialist has claimed. Seb Henbest, Group Head of Climate Transition at HSBC, highlighted China’s strategic approach to nuclear power and…
Human Cost of AI: New database reveals over 700 risks to society
Scientists at one of the world’s leading universities have created a threat list warning of the risks posed by artificial intelligence. Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have published an AI Risk Repository which lists over 700 different…
NATO condemns Russian drone violations of Latvia and Romania airspace
Two NATO members have said Russian drones violated their airspace, as one reportedly flew into Romania during night-time attacks on neighbouring Ukraine while another crashed in eastern Latvia the previous day. The revelations have led to a severe condemnation of…
Cyber spies target Iranian government critics with fake job sites
Iranian state-sponsored hackers have launched an espionage campaign targeting individuals perceived as threats to the regime. The cyber spies operate fake job websites, luring unsuspecting job seekers into giving up their personal information, which Iran then uses to spy on…
Estimates suggest 16,000 Russian soldiers have been killed fighting in Ukraine since April
Up to 16,000 Russian soldiers have been killed in Ukraine since April, new front line casualty estimates have revealed. The astonishing figures come from a data project carried out by the BBC’s Russia service and independent Russian media outlet Mediazona….
Seoul and Washington to hold high-level talks after North Korea unveils nuclear drone arsenal
Defence chiefs from the US and South Korea are set to hold high level talks about the nuclear missile threat from North Korea, it has been announced. The fifth meeting of the Extended Deterrence Strategy and Consultation Group (EDSCG) is…
Telegram founder Pavel Durov: From tech titan to wanted man
Ten years ago, Pavel Durov had already made a name for himself in tech as the founder of VKontakte (VK). To those who knew him, he was always ambitious, gifted, and academically brilliant, having graduated from St. Petersburg State University…
Telegram’s future uncertain after CEO’s arrest
Senior Russian military commanders fear their war plans could be exposed following the arrest of the founder messaging platform Telegram. Russian-born tech billionaire and Telegram CEO was detained by French authorities on August 24 on charges related to criminal allegations…
NASA seeks industry input to strengthen space station’s robots
NASA is calling on American companies to share their ideas for using and operating a group of free-flying robots on the International Space Station (ISS). The trio of cube-shaped robots, named “Bumble,” “Honey,” and “Queen,” are part of the Astrobee…
Thousands of fake accounts targeting U.S. voters exposed
Thousands of AI-controlled social media accounts designed to disrupt the U.S. election have been linked to China, according to a report by cyber investigators. The network, known as “Green Cicada”, has been uncovered by cyber security firm CyberCX, which found…
US prepares for threat of joint Chinese, Russian and North Korean nuclear strike
The United States is making plans to counter the growing possibility of a joint Chinese, Russian and North Korean nuclear strike, according to a classified Pentagon document. In March, Joe Biden, the US president, secretly approved a significant change to…
Jordan questions citizenship of man accused of anti-Israel U.S. attacks
The Jordanian citizenship of the Florida resident charged with attacking a solar farm is under scrutiny following reports from several Arab-language outlets claiming he is not a Jordanian citizen. National Security News (NSN) has uncovered social media posts from the…
Former astronaut Gen. Charles Bolden warns against kinetic weapons in space
Where you hit an object with a kinetic weapon, debris is generated in that orbit and below for months, if not years to come.
Why Ukraine entered Russia: Shifting the narrative, demonstrating strength, negotiation leverage
The incursion into Russia is “definitely a blow to Putin’s image” according to Prof Haran.
Africa needs more than 10 million doses of vaccines for mpox outbreak
There are only 200,000 doses of mpox vaccines available according to the Africa Centre for Disease Control (Africa CDC) has reported, resulting in a shortfall of 9.8 million.
AUKUS alliance achieves AI breakthrough with autonomous drone trials
Autonomous AI drones capable of independently locating and destroying ground targets have been successfully tested in a “ground breaking” multinational military exercise. The exercise is the first use of autonomy and AI sensing systems in a real-time military environment according…
UK nuclear plant cyber failures expose national security risk
Britain’s largest nuclear plant operator has apologised after admitting to a series of cyber security failings that could have jeopardised national security. Sellafield, a government-owned facility which is home to the largest store of plutonium in the world, left sensitive…
New Israeli intelligence suggests Iran could attack Israel by Thursday
The United States has deployed a nuclear-powered guided missile submarine and a carrier strike group to the Middle East in anticipation of an imminent attack on Israel by Iran. The deployment of USS Georgia follows new intelligence from Israel indicating…
U.S. offers $10m reward for Iranian hackers targeting critical infrastructure
A $10 million reward is being offered for information leading to the capture of a team of Iranian hackers targeting critical infrastructure within the U.S., National Security News has learned. The move comes as the U.S. government intensifies its efforts…
Deepfakes targeting Kamala Harris spread on X as election disinformation escalates
Doctored videos of Vice President Kamala Harris have gone viral on social media platform X gaining millions of views. The surge in deepfake content targeting Harris began less than 24 hours after her first campaign speech and shows no sign…
FSB General behind Gershkovich detention caught in corruption scandal
One of the Kremlin’s most senior intelligence chiefs is facing allegations of corruption amid claims that his family amassed a fortune through illicit dealings linked to a Russian state defence company. Lieutenant General Vladislav Menshchikov, the head of the FSB,…
India, Poland and Hungary to join Axiom Space mission to ISS
Axiom Space announced that its upcoming mission to the International Space Station (ISS) will feature a diverse international crew representing India, Poland, and Hungary. The Ax-4 mission marks a significant expansion of global participation in commercial spaceflight. It is also…
Digital Battlefield: Mobile phone reliance drives new cyber tactics on frontline
The increasing reliance on mobile phones by both Russian and Ukrainian forces has transformed the battlefield, with devices serving as both vital tools and potential liabilities. The disclosure has led to a warning by cyber analysts of a shift in…
North Korean hackers target US healthcare to fund global nuclear espionage
North Korean spy chiefs are hacking into hospital computers to extort ransom payments which are then used to fund more cyber attacks, a new threat report warns. The communist state is using the attacks to fuel its nuclear ambitions, with…
F-16 fighter aircraft arrival in Ukraine is imminent.
F-16 fighters could soon be taking part in combat operations inside Ukraine’s airspace providing a well-timed significant boost to its air defences.Described by experts as the “world’s most agile fighter” – and a much hyped element of this the Nato…
US pressure leads to 95 Libyans arrested in South Africa, Irish link
Confusion surrounds the intelligence which led to the arrest of 95 Libyans at a military training camp in South Africa. Government officials claim that the country’s intelligence officers were responsible for the raid on the camp in White River in the Mpumalanga province,…
Traditional employee background checks cannot be trusted, you might hire a foreign hacker
Traditional background checks for employees are not good enough anymore as sophisticated state actors use stolen identities and artificial intelligence to get around security checks. Even a cyber security training firm discovered their new software engineer was actually a North…
AI could enable terrorists to create cheap and deadly robots from home
Widely available AI programs coupled with easily accessible materials could allow anyone to build a lethal robot in their own homes for as little as $1,000, according to military science experts. This unprecedented ease of access to weaponised autonomous technology…
CrowdStrike’s ‘dystopian global cascade’ exposed vulnerabilities in trusted security systems
Anti-virus systems, like CrowdStrike which brought millions of Windows devices down, pose a potential security threat due to their trusted nature, according to Professor John Walker, a cyber consultant, who spoke to National Security News. Continuous updates, he said, increase…
WHO worries over new DRC MPOX strain, confidence in South African containment
22 cases of MPOX have been identified in South Africa leading to three deaths. 16 patients have recovered and three are considered as ‘active cases.’
“Largest IT Disaster to Date” Raises Concerns About Global Tech Infrastructure
The effect of the outage is so widespread because Crowdstrike is the largest endpoint solution provider globally. Approximately 70% of the world’s desktop computers run on Microsoft Windows.
AI tools and chatbots are rocket fuel for massive increase in cyber crime
Cyber criminals are weaponising advanced chatbots and AI technologies to amplify their attacks, marking a significant escalation in the digital arms race. Experts warn that these powerful AI tools are being deployed at a record scale and speed, creating a…
Suspicious Russian deaths since the Ukraine war
Since the start of the war in Ukraine, up to 18 serving and former members of the Russian high command have died – many in unexplained circumstances. National Security News lists the Russian generals and senior politicians – some of…
Ex-Mandela Guard: Questions on Trump security ‘Dominating the High Ground,’ but too early to judge
A lot of facts are going to emerge over time, and hopefully, we will understand why this seemingly unprotected rooftop was not covered by some form of security.
Western allies’ strategic shift away from Russian uranium
The US is encountering challenges in securing uranium supplies, with some traditional sources becoming increasingly unstable.
Google warn of Russian cyber threats and Chinese espionage at Paris Olympics
The Paris Olympic games are facing an unprecedented threat with security experts warning that state-level hackers are aiming to seriously disrupt the global sporting event with cyber attacks and disinformation campaigns. Dr Jamie Collier, a threat expert at Mandiant, Google’s…
Ukraine’s path to Nato membership is “irreversible”.
Nato members meeting at the 75th anniversary of the alliance have pledged their support for an “irreversible path” to future membership for Ukraine.While a formal timeline for it to join the military organisation was not agreed at a summit in…
U.S. shuts down Russian AI-powered disinformation bot farm
The United States Department of Justice announced that it has disrupted a Russian sponsored AI-powered social media campaign used to spread disinformation across the internet. The Justice Department said it had collaborated with international partners in Canada and the Netherlands…
Israel building “Cyber Dome” to counter increased Iranian cyber attacks
Israel is creating a new defence system called Cyber Dome to protect the country from online attacks being launched by Iran and its proxies in the wake of the Hamas October attack. Inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome missile defence system,…
Less aggressive stance on Israel and improved US relations expected from South Africa
A pullback from South Africa’s close alliances with China and russia militarily is also anticipated with an alignment closer to the United States.
Europe’s most sophisticated rocket Ariane 6 prepares for lift-off
Europe’s new heavy-lift Ariane 6 rocket is set to make its long-delayed debut today (July 9). Providing all goes to plan, the Ariane 6 will launch from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, on Tuesday during a four-hour window that…
Britain’s new Prime Minister will reinforce the UK’s commitment to NATO at Washington summit.
Britain’s new Prime Minister will make his debut on the world stage next week when he joins other Western leaders at the US-hosted NATO summit in Washington.Sir Keir Starmer, who won a landslide victory as leader of the Labour Party,…
Eight ways to make the British Army more lethal
From drone warfare to weapon upgrades, new Army chief General Sir Roly Walker has ambitious plans to strengthen the country’s military. The new head of the British Army, General Sir Roly Walker, has declared in an opening salvo to whichever…
Russian hacker used U.S. company system to hack Ukraine government
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is offering a $10m USD reward for the capture of a Russian computer hacker responsible for launching a string of damaging cyber attacks in the U.S. and Ukraine. The FBI have placed Amin Timovich Stigal…
Africa leaders want to fortify info space against Russian propaganda
African leaders from every corner of the continent have voiced growing concern about the destabilising effects of this disinformation on their countries, said Gen. Michael Langley, commander of U.S. Africa Command, at an African Chiefs of Defence Conference in Botswana
Offshore wind farms are extremely vulnerable to cyber attacks
Offshore wind farms located in the North Sea are becoming increasing vulnerable to cyber attacks, according to a new report. Wind farms located in remote areas rely heavily on digital connections to communicate with land-based systems. But many are equipped…
Bolivian General Zúñiga arrested after failed coup attempt
Bolivian authorities have arrested General Juan José Zúñiga after armoured vehicles rammed the doors of the government palace in La Paz. The rebellion, led by Zúñiga, aimed to overthrow President Luis Arce’s government under the guise of “restoring democracy.” However,…
AI for Good: Ukraine deploys a new “tool” in its fight against disinformation
Ukraine has launched an internet-based tool to expose propaganda and help counter Russian disinformation, according to Volodymyr Borodiansky, media executive and former Ukrainian Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports. War of Words uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyse over 100,000…
Has World War Three already begun?
Sir Iain Duncan Smith is a long serving Tory MP and a vocal critic of the Chinese state. He has been sanctioned by China for describing the treatment of the Uyghur population and other mostly-Muslim ethnic groups in the north-western…
The West needs a Nato style form of defence against cyber attacks
A NATO-style form of collective defence is the best protection against cyber security attacks by hostile states and organised crime gangs, experts have warned. Governments and corporations of all sizes risk losing hundreds of millions of dollars in cyber attacks…
AI Arms Race: China could have killer robots on the battlefield in two years
China could deploy fully autonomous military weapons onto the battlefield within two years, according to a leading weapons expert. Defence analyst Francis Tusa said China was not hindered by the ethical concerns surrounding so-called killer robots and was developing autonomous…
AI’s Blind Spot: It fails to recognise disinformation it creates
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has a blind spot. It fails to recognise disinformation it creates. This means that it has limitations in the fight against disinformation. Experts have found that AI tools can be tricked when attempting to label machine versus…
China’s Hacking Network: Talent competitions fuel state espionage
China is recruiting talented citizens through local “hacking competitions” and weaponising their talents to attack Western governments, according to a report by ETH Zurich University’s Centre for Security Studies. The revelation, coupled with recent admissions by Dutch officials about the…
Trump Deepfake Video Fuels Antisemitism Despite Being Exposed as Fake
A deepfake video of former President Donald Trump advocating for antisemitism has appeared online, National Security News can reveal. While the signs of manipulation are evident, with some users flagging mismatched lip movements, the video has still managed to fuel…
SAMIM withdrawal from Cabo Delgado: uncomfortable truths
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) military mission in Mozambique (SAMIM), which was deployed on 15 July 2021 to fight the Islamic insurgents terrorising the northern Cabo Delgado province is scheduled to end by mid-July 2024. Mozambican security forces will…
Russia’s disinformation campaigns intensify ahead of Paris Olympics 2024
As the world eagerly anticipates the start of the 2024 Paris Olympics next month, a darker shadow looms over the festivities. The Microsoft Threat Analysis Centre (MTAC) has sounded the alarm on a significant uptick in malign influence campaigns orchestrated…
Iran’s Hardliners Vie for Presidency as the Country Faces Severe Internal and External Challenges
Since the death of Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi, political uncertainty has run riot in Iran. In this article, which we are republishing with The Conversation’s permission, Afshin Shahi, Associate Professor in Middle East Politics & International Relations at Keele University,…
Fighting Fire with Fire: Our Policy of Deterrence Towards Iran Lies in Tatters – Why the West Must Start Fighting Back
With Iran continuing its sabre-rattling in the Middle East, NSN speaks with Henry Jackson Society Senior Research Fellow Barak Seener, at the launch of his new report, Restoring Deterrence: Destabilising the Iranian Regime, where Seener calls for a new Iran…
Chinese mercenaries are fighting for Russia in Ukraine.
Former members of the Chinese Army are fighting for Russia in Ukraine as part of an international force of mercenaries recruited by the Kremlin.Videos on social media have allegedly shown two former members of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) recalling…
SA’s Coalition Challenge: Statesmanship Needed Amid Zuma Violence Threats
South Africa is entering uncharted waters as the ruling African National Congress, following its historic loss of a parliamentary majority, has to decide within the next fortnight on who it will choose as a coalition partner to lead the country….
Coalition Government May Limit South Africa’s Global Influence – Chris Vandome, Chatham House
With counting underway in South Africa’s watershed elections, predictions point to the ANC suffering a 15% collapse in support, plunging the country into uncertainty for the next two weeks. The party still remains the dominant force in South Africa; however, it…
Educating Against Deepfakes: India’s Disinformation Battle Offers Crucial Lessons for Upcoming Elections
In light of the upcoming UK election, the threat of AI-driven disinformation, like deepfakes, is a growing concern. The UK’s Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy emphasised the urgency, stating “It is more important than ever that the UK…
Hong Kong’s Crackdown Continues: 14 Pro-Democracy Activists Arrested for Subversion
In a landmark case under the Beijing-imposed National Security Law (NSL), Hong Kong has convicted 14 pro-democracy activists and former lawmakers on charges of subversion. This mass trial, the most severe application yet of the NSL, highlights the Chinese government’s…
Iran’s Next Supreme Leader
As the world awaits news on who will be Iran’s next president, The Conversation discusses who is likely to become Iran’s next supreme leader after the death of President Ebrahim Raisi, the man many expected to take on the supreme…
Double-Edged Sword: Emerging AI Technologies and the National Security Landscape
A recent panel discussion explored the complex relationship between emerging technologies and national security, with artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous weapons, and cyber warfare at the centre of the conversation. Leading experts examined the potential benefits and the lurking threats these…
South African Elections will reveal SA’s exposure to digital influence as a service
As the South African elections get under way, ISS Africa examines how vulnerable South Africa is to misinformation and disinformation through unverifiable social media posts, designed to influence voters. ISS discusses how information integrity is essential to protect democratic principals…
National Security News identifies six potential Iranian presidential candidates.
The end of official mourning for Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi has kick-started a competition in which as many as 20 potential successors have been proposed.All candidates have to be cleared by the 12-strong elite body known as the Guardian Council,…
South Africa Records One Political Hit Every Two Weeks Ahead of National Elections – Chwayita Thobela, Gi-TOC
In the lead-up to South Africa’s national elections on May 29, an average of at least one politically motivated assassination occurred every two weeks between January and April 2024. This alarming trend is detailed in a new report, The Politics…
Experts Discuss Evolving Strategies in Cyber War: From Destructive Attacks to Digital Espionage
As the digital battlefield rapidly evolves, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has become a critical case study in the effectiveness and strategies of cyber operations during crises. A recent cybersecurity conference in London hosted by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) painted…
US President names Kenya as a major non-Nato ally.
US President Joe Biden has named Kenya as a major non-Nato ally, making it the first sub-Saharan African country to receive that designation. Mr Biden announced the move during a three-day state visit by Kenyan President William Ruto. It is…
‘Bizarre’ Coup by US Nationals Foiled in DRC, Threatening Western Interests – Daniel van Dalen, Signal Risk
A coup attempt against President Félix Tshisekedi’s government in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been foiled, resulting in three deaths.
Global Crackdown on Election Deepfakes: Latvia Proposes New Criminal Law, Australia Calls for Stronger Regulations
Latvia could make the use of deepfakes in political campaigns illegal. President Edgars Rinkēvičs has proposed a law that would make the use of deepfake technology to spread false information about political candidates a criminal offense, punishable by up to…
Powering Africa: The Future of Nuclear Energy
As the world moves away from fossil fuels, ISS Africa examines how Africa can transition to cleaner energies whilst dealing with increases in energy demand as the continent continues to experience rapid population growth. While other regions are transitioning to…
Russia is too scared to deploy its “state-of-the-art” Armata T-14 tank to Ukraine.
Russia is too scared to deploy its “cutting edge” Armata tank to Ukraine because President Vladimir Putin fears they will all be destroyed, the British Ministry of Defence has claimed. Intelligence chiefs have revealed that the Kremlin fears that its…
International Backlash Over ICC’s Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant
The decision by International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor Karim Khan to seek arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and three leaders of the Hamas organisation has ignited significant international backlash. On Monday, several of…
The death of the Iranian president is unlikely to end Iran’s shadow war with Israel.
Even before Tehran had formally announced the death of President Ebrahim Raisi, conspiracy theories as to whether foul play was to blame began coming in rapidly. Was Israel’s Mossad, the go-to organisation Iran likes to blame for almost any catastrophe…
Call for Greater China-West Collaboration against Russian Threat – Maximilian Hess, FPRI
While Putin’s main aim of the visit to Xi was to convince Xi, “Look at what the West is doing to you in tariffs and they are trying to cut off your market – it is time to accelerate economic warfare and join in with us in this full-blown economic war with the West,” Hess’s impression is that President Xi is “certainly not ready to do so and hasn’t been.”
AI Allies: UK and Canada Sign New AI Safety Partnership
The United Kingdom and Canada have pledged to strengthen collaboration on Artificial Intelligence (AI) safety, building upon their shared commitment to responsible AI development. The announcement, confirmed by UK Technology Minister Michelle Donelan and Canadian Science and Innovation Minister François-Philippe…
A Changing Political Order: Xi-Putin Declaration Serves as a Wake-up Call
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping held a pivotal meeting in Beijing last week. Xi welcomed Putin with a grand reception, marking the start of what was celebrated as a ‘new era’ of cooperation in an increasingly ‘multipolar…
Despite Surge in Violence in Mozambique, $50B LNG Projects Likely to Proceed with Rwandan Troop Protection – Dr Joseph Hanlon
In recent months, violence by insurgents in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province has escalated, highlighted by an ambush on Southern African Development Community (SADC) forces near Macomia, which damaged vehicles but caused no casualties. As the SADC prepares to withdraw in July amid criticisms of its effectiveness, Rwandan and Tanzanian troops have been praised for securing certain areas. Mozambique specialist Dr. Joseph Hanlon believes the $20 billion LNG project by TotalEnergies and the $30 billion project by ExxonMobil will proceed, as these companies trust the Rwandan forces to protect the crucial offshore gas fields and infrastructure. Hanlon noted the effectiveness of the Rwandan and Tanzanian troops compared to the SADC forces, suggesting that the LNG investments will continue despite the insurgency.
Juraj Cintula Charged in Slovakia PM Assassination Attempt: Probing Motives Amidst Allegations of Russian Involvement
A major investigation was underway last night to try and establish the motive behind the attempted assassination of the controversial Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico. The gunman has been named as Juraj Cintula, a 71-year-old poet, author and vocal critic…
US Must Collaborate, Not Compete, with China in Africa
As the world moves towards a multipolar system, Africa’s future holds weight. Jakkie Cilliers, Head of African Futures and Innovation at ISS Pretoria, analyses this shift in a recent ISS Today article. He argues that the US needs to adapt…
Sons of Russian Oligarchs are serving in a special drone unit in Ukraine “out of harm’s way”.
A Russian drone regiment is recruiting members of the Kremlin elite so they can ‘sidestep’ military service on the front, according to the British government.The unit called “Bars Kaskad” is recruiting Russian elites, the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) said…
“Inspect” – UK Releases Free AI Safety Testing Platform to Secure the Future
The UK continues to cement its position as a global leader in AI safety with the launch of Inspect, the world’s first state-backed AI safety testing platform made available for free public use. Developed by the UK AI Safety Institute,…
A Sanctioned Airline and it’s Shadowy Founder: Savelyev’s Aviation Empire Raises Red Flags for the West
In the midst of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) conflict, the spotlight falls on Aviacon Zitotrans, a Russian cargo airline entangled in controversy. Steering this entity is Valery Savelyev, a figure with a complex past intertwining business, politics,…
Putin’s Cabinet Reshuffle: Strategy to Intensify Ukraine Conflict
President Vladimir Putin has replaced his defence minister in what is seen as a strategy to intensify his war on Ukraine.
Russia is recruiting far-Right extremists to carry out attacks in the UK and Nato countries
Russia is recruiting far-Right extremists to carry out attacks in the UK and Nato countries, National Security News has learned.Intelligence sources have said that terrorists recruited by Russian GRU agents have been responsible for a series of attacks in Western…
Russian spy expelled from the UK.
The Russian agent expelled from Britain for spying is Maxim Elovik, an intelligence officer working under the cover of the defence attaché to the UK.Elovik – who has been in Britain for around a decade – is believed to be…
Ukraine Strengthens Ties with Africa: Increased Grain Exports & New Embassies
Ukraine is intensifying its engagement with Africa through the expansion of its grain exports and the establishment of new embassies across the continent. A crucial aspect of this outreach involves inviting journalists from Africa to visit Kyiv.
Report Warns: Over 16 Billion Political Robocalls Target Americans as Deepfake Threat Looms Over 2024 Elections
Americans have already received over 16 billion political robocalls this year, and scammers are poised to plague the 2024 elections with the latest AI deceptions and deepfake tricks, according to a report released by Transaction Network Services (TNS). As the…
Does the UK need an Israeli-style Air Defence Dome?
British defence chiefs are considering plans to develop an Israeli-style air defence dome amid fears that the UK could be targeted by long range missiles and attack drones. Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the Chief of the Defence Staff and the…
“I don’t buy the idea of the militarization of the Moon” – Dr John Plumb, US Assistant Secretary for Space Diplomacy
mid concerns that China’s Change’e 6 mission to the moon, launched on May 3, could be a part of a strategy to militarise the moon, Dr John Plumb, the Assistant Secretary of Defence for Space Policy at the U.S Department of Defence, said, “I do not buy the idea of the militarisation of the moon.” He expressed his belief that space could instead serve as a significant platform for diplomacy with China. On the threat of nuclear weapons in space, Dr Plumb said the Defence Department (DOD) was taking the threat of Russia sending a nuclear head into space very seriously,” and added that no space-faring nation should entertain such a capability due to its catastrophic implications. Regarding the threat of cyber-attacks in space, Dr Plumb suggested that constellations of low-orbit satellites could provide a solution to ensuring satellite safety and said that the DOD is exploring other potential applications of low-orbit satellites
China Woos the West as Xi Meets with Western Leaders
As China’s foreign policy becomes more aggressive and centralised, the world is seeing a new international order. In this article, published originally by The Conversation, Professor of International Security Stefan Wolff explores how Xi’s meetings with foreign leaders shows China’s…
Experts: Low Short-Term Escalation Risk in Ukraine, But Long-Term Worries Persist
While the war in Ukraine rages on, a webinar hosted by the Warwick Ukraine-Belarus Society highlighted the lingering anxieties surrounding a wider European war. Despite ongoing efforts to support Ukraine’s defence, the risk of escalation remains a major concern among…
Russian losses in Ukraine reach 450,000
The Russian Army has lost 450,000 soldiers and 3,000 tanks during the two year war in Ukraine, according to figures released by the British government.The staggering casualty figures mean that President Vladimir Putin has lost an average of 560 troops…
The Russian Military Provides an Air Bridge for the ANC’s offensive Against M23 in the DRC
While the west has been focussed on the crisis in the Middle East and the war in Ukraine, Russia is becoming increasingly involved in the seemingly endless conflict between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and various rebel militias…
Amandla.site123: Spreading Disinformation, Manipulating Media Content Ahead of South Africa’s Election
Amandla.site123 is a pro-Russian website dedicated to disseminating disinformation within South Africa. Our investigation has revealed that not only does it churn out extensive content disparaging President Cyril Ramaphosa, but it also manipulates material from reputable publications in the country….
Turing Institute: AI Supercharges Intelligence Analysis, But Mitigating Bias is Key
In a bid to bolster national security decision-making processes, the United Kingdom has embarked on a comprehensive assessment of the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in strategic intelligence analysis. A report authored by the independent Centre for Emerging Technology and…
Further Israel-Iran Escalation Averted… For Now: Israel Reeled Back, Iran realised It Can’t Win – Col Phil Ingram
“It wouldn’t surprise me at all if Putin got on the phone to the Grand Ayatollah and said, ‘Hey, look, stop. I don’t want you starting a war where you’re going to have to make sure your arms industry is doing nothing but feeding the Iranian military. I need you to keep supplying me stuff so I can continue my fight in Ukraine.”
Oman serves as a crucial back channel between Iran and the US as tensions flare in the Middle East
For years, Oman has worked hard to avoid the escalation of Middle Eastern crises. As conflict rages between Israel and Gaza and Iran, Oman is reprising its role as peacemaker, enabling back-channel talks in an attempt to avoid any further…
INDIA: AI Dominates the World’s Biggest Election as Bollywood Deepfakes Target Voters
As India’s general election unfolds, the proliferation of deepfake videos endorsing political parties and candidates has ramped up, particularly with the recent spotlight on manipulated videos featuring Bollywood celebrities. This surge in deepfake manipulation coincides with reports from McAfee, indicating…
Kyiv Defence Analyst: Crucial US Aid to Ukraine Promises Immediate Battlefield Impact, Hoping for Cluster Munitions Advantage
Ukraine’s tireless efforts have finally borne fruit as the U.S. Congress approved nearly $61 billion in crucial military and economic aid, putting an end to months of uncertainty and frustration. With Ukrainian soldiers facing dwindling ammunition and weapons, this aid package arrives as a…
Election Disinformation and the AI Threat – How can you protect yourselves?
As several major elections draw near, the threat from malicious AI bots, created and run by hostile actors intent on manipulating peaceful and democratic elections, grows. New AI tech has hijacked social media platforms to spread disinformation, swaying opinion and…
Russia’s New Crimea Railway Fuels Tensions as Ukraine Targets Rail Officials
Tensions are spiking as a strategic railway project snakes its way through occupied Ukrainian territory, nearing completion by year’s end. This land route bypasses the vulnerable Crimean Bridge and delivers crucial supplies directly to Russia’s doorstep. But Ukraine is pushing…
Russian Election Disinformation Escalates: Microsoft Flags US Campaign, Belgium and Czech Leaders Advocate Sanctions
After a slow start, Microsoft’s Threat Analysis Center (MTAC) reports that Russian influence operations “have picked up steam in the past two months.” Microsoft’s analysis comes as two EU-leader, Belgium and the Czech Republic are seeking European sanctions for Russian…
Africa Must Prepare for Potential Economic Shock Amid Escalating Israel-Iran Conflict
The escalating geopolitical tension between Israel and Iran could potentially trigger a ripple effect, impacting African nations that are bracing for another significant economic shock through contagion. This perspective is derived from an article in ISS Today, which we are…
Two suspected Russian spies arrested in Germany after sabotage plot uncovered.
Two alleged Russian spies suspected of plotting to sabotage German military aid for Ukraine have been arrested in the southern German state of Bavaria.The two men, described as dual German-Russian nationals, were detained in Bayreuth on suspicion of spying for…
The threat Iran poses to British society requires urgent action – Policy Exchange.
Iran poses a “multidimensional threat to British society” requiring “urgent action”, an influential think tank has stated.The report by the Policy Exchange also said that the Islamic Centre of England Ltd (ICEL) located in Maida Vale in West London, was…
Recent Conflict a Red Alert for Global Military AI Safety
Imagine a battlefield where lightning-fast algorithms decide who lives and dies. That’s the chilling vision some experts held as artificial intelligence (AI) began infiltrating warfare. But recent reports like Israel’s alleged use of AI in targeting operations within Gaza, and…
Jacob Zuma’s MK is not a South African democratic political party, it is a Russian “hybrid warfare” platform
OP-ED by Andre Pienaar, Co-founder of the Directorate of Special Operations (the Scorpions). Up to a million Russian controlled social media accounts are active daily in supporting the election campaign of Jacob Zuma’s MK party, the new service Bloomberg has…
Space economy is set to soar to $1.8 trillion by 2035
The Space Economy is on a trajectory to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, marking a substantial leap from $630 billion in 2023. This growth, averaging 9% annually, outpaces the global GDP. This projection is the result of extensive research by…
Taming the Battlefield Machine: US Partner with Austria, Bahrain, Canada, and Portugal for Safer Military AI
As the battlefield is becoming increasingly dominated by lines of code and algorithms, with artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly transforming modern warfare, a recent international conference, with delegates from 60 countries, takes on a critical challenge. The United States, joining forces…
Kremlin Battleship Burns: Ukraine Intelligence Announce Kaliningrad Sabotage
A cryptic post from Ukraine’s military intelligence (GUR) detailed a fire aboard a Russian missile ship, the “Serpukhov,” docked in Kaliningrad’s Baltic Sea enclave. The incident, which reportedly took place on 7th April 2024, targeted a Project 21631 Buyan-M class…
Election Looms: US States Race to Contain AI Manipulation
As the countdown to the next presidential election is well and truly on, states across the US are gearing up for an epic battle against the rising tide of AI manipulation, particularly deepfakes. Recently, Indiana and New Mexico made headlines…
Iran Has Vowed to Retaliate in The Wake of an Israeli Air Strike Which Killed a Senior Revolutionary Guards Force Commander
Tehran has vowed to retaliate after accusing Israel of carrying out an airstrike on the Iranian consulate building in Syria in which seven members of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards were killed. Brig-Gen Mohammad Reza Zahedi, a senior commander of the elite Quds…
Cyberattacks Could Derail UN Peacekeeping Efforts
The ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats is putting a new strain on UN peacekeeping missions, according to a recent report by the International Peace Institute (IPI). The report, titled “Cybersecurity and UN Peace Operations: Evolving Risks and Opportunities,” paints a…
Havana Syndrome: Americans can’t pinpoint cause, but report points finger at Russian 29155 unit
“What is clear is that something is happening to make diplomats ill and I am very surprised given the increasing profile of Havana Syndrome and the length of time it has been suspected that the Americans have not been able…
Shadow Defence Minister Kobus Marais Advocates for South Africa’s Continued Presence in Mozambique to Combat Cabo Del Gado Insurgents
In June 2024, the forces from the Southern African Development Community (SADC), including South Africa, are set to withdraw from Mozambique. This country has been under the terror of Islamic insurgents, particularly in the northern Cabo Delgado province. The withdrawal…
“Nobody said two” – NSN Stands By Report on SANDF Soldiers in DRC
NSN notes the SANDF press statement of 3 April in response to NSN’s 2 April reporting on SANDF personnel being held in M23’s custody in the DRC. NSN is an independent publication that fact checks its reporting rigorously. NSN’s reporting…
South African soldiers surrender to M23 in the DRC and are taken as prisoners
Senior East-African government sources have told NSN that several South African soldiers, deployed by the ANC Government into the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as part of an ill equipped and ill prepared force, surrendered to M23 rebels this…
China’s UK election hack – how and why the Electoral Commission was targeted
Soraya Harding, University of Portsmouth via The Conversation The UK government has accused China of hacking the UK Electoral Commission, gaining access to information about millions of voters. In the aftermath of the incident, the UK and US governments have…
NSN Exclusive: Perfect storm created for Somali pirates to return but strong resurgence unlikely – Denys Reva ISS
Somalian pirates are exploiting the crisis in the Red Sea, seeing it as an opportunity to target ships off Somalia’s coast. The World Bank has estimated that pirates operating off the Horn of Africa amassed between $18 billion annually during…
German Security at Stake as French-Russian Nuclear Partnership Expands
Nestled in the tranquil landscapes of Lower Saxony lies a Lingen factory, now entangled in controversy: 40 uranium shipments approved for transit from Russia’s nuclear giant, Rosatom. The collaboration between Rosatom and France’s state-run Framatome to fuel reactors serving over…
Disinformation, governance and the South African election
By Phumzile van Damme – republished from ISS African Futures How can we safeguard South Africa’s hard-won free and fair elections in the age of disinformation online? Phumzile Van Damme weighs in. On 9 March 2024, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, the daughter…
Deepfakin’ Democracy – Identifying Deepfakes
In the wild world of digital content, we’re facing a serious reality check – turns out, we’re pretty terrible at spotting deepfake videos and dodgy audio. Recent research shows that we can only identify deepfakes in videos about half the…
Wagner’s Facebook Scheme: Exploiting Global Desperation for Ukraine’s Warfront
Wagner Group, the infamous Russian private military company, has reignited its recruitment campaign on Facebook, preying on unsuspecting individuals worldwide, to lure them into joining the conflict in Ukraine. The targeted nature of this recruitment drive is clear as the…
US Intelligence Rings Alarm Bells Over Alleged Russian Space Nuke
While the war in Ukraine continues to dominate headlines, a new battleground is emerging – one far above the clouds. General Stephen Whiting, head of the US Space Command, issued a stark warning: don’t underestimate Russia’s growing space capabilities. Despite…
NSN Launches ‘Deepfakin’ Democracy’
In 2024, the global political stage is buzzing with anticipation as national elections are either concluded, scheduled or expected in a staggering 64 countries, including the European Union. This collective represents nearly half of the world’s population, making it the…
Fingerprints Exposed: PrintListener Shakes Biometric Security
In a technological revelation, researchers from the University of Colorado and esteemed counterparts in China uncovered a novel method to compromise biometric security measures. Dubbed PrintListener, this cutting-edge technique cleverly reconstructs a person’s fingerprints by analysing the sounds produced during…
Security Concerns Raised Following German Military Leak at Singapore Airshow
Last week, a Russian media source disclosed an audio recording revealing a classified conversation among a group of senior German military officials. The conversation took place while one of the officials, reportedly a brigadier general, was staying at a Singapore…
Celebrating Women Leaders in Security: Linda Zecher, CEO of IronNet
On International Women’s Day, we recognise the incredible contributions of women who are shaping the future of national security. This year, we shine a spotlight on Linda Zecher, the CEO of IronNet, a leader who is revolutionising the fight against…
Ukraine Claims Hack: A Glimpse Inside Russia’s Military Operations
The ongoing war in Ukraine has taken a dramatic turn in the digital realm, with Ukrainian intelligence claiming a major cyberattack on the servers of Russia’s Defence Ministry. This bold move, if confirmed, could be a game-changer, potentially offering Ukraine…
The Rise of Deepfakes in Political Campaigns: Ethics, Manipulation, and AI Uprising
The political arena has become ground zero for an AI (Artificial Intelligence) uprising, with deepfake technology rewriting the rules of the game. From resurrecting dead politicians to shaping the narratives of imprisoned leaders, these digital manipulations are not just unsettling;…
Andrey Klimov: Unmasking the Paradox – Corrupt Politician Hosts Neo-Colonialism Conference
In a twist of irony, Andrey Klimov, a seasoned Russian politician with a shadowy reputation, recently assumed a prominent role in organising the “For the Freedom of Nations” forum in Moscow. The spectacle, hosted by the United Russia party under…
A Mosaic of Disinformation: The Manipulation of Narratives Surrounding Navalny’s Death
Alexei Navalny, hailed as the Kremlin’s most formidable critic, fearlessly exposed corruption entrenched within President Vladimir Putin’s political party, enduring substantial personal sacrifices. From surviving a near-fatal poisoning attempt to imprisonment since 2021, Navalny’s unwavering commitment to exposing political corruption…
Congressional Chaos: The Battle Over $60 Billion for Ukraine Instigated by the ‘Hateful Eight’
Months of Congressional chaos have left U.S. aid to Ukraine paralysed, creating a four-month deadlock in providing essential assistance that it needs to prevent a Russian victory. Now, the U.S. Senate proposed a comprehensive $95 billion aid package, earmarking $60…
Decisive Action on Spyware: Unprecedented Cybersecurity Pact Unveiled at London Conference
In the clandestine realm of cyberspace, where espionage meets the digital frontier, a chilling truth is unveiled. Spyware, touted as a guardian of national security, reveals its sinister side, orchestrating hacking-for-hire campaigns that target civil society, political dissidents, and journalists….
Hostage Family Reveals How They Have Been Unable to Grieve for the Loss of Their Loved One Killed in the Hamas Attacks.
The family of a hostage held by Hamas have told of how they have been unable to grieve for three relatives murdered by the terrorist group. Steve Brisley, who is campaigning to free his brother-in-law Eli Sharabi, also said he…
Exclusive: Senior Research Fellow Martin Plaut on China, Russia and keeping the Red Sea open
The United States and Britain have carried out strikes against targets linked to Houthis in Yemen. It’s the first time strikes have been launched against the Iran-backed group since it started targeting international shipping in the Red Sea late last year. An international…
Profile on Brigadier General Esmail Qaani, the commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps Quds Force.
The CIA assassination of Major General Qasem Soleimani, the commander of Iran’s notorious Quds Force, in a drone attack in 2020 was designed to send a message to Iran’s most powerful leaders. Washington wanted Tehran’s ruling elite – those religious…
The Two Sides of the Coin: AI in the Wars of the Middle East
The past year’s wars in the Middle East have long been complex and devastating, shaped by a multitude of factors. In recent years, a new player has emerged on the battlefield: artificial intelligence (AI). AI’s role in these conflicts is…
Exclusive: Sir Graeme Lamb Writes on Russia and Iran: An Unwelcome Alliance
The past will not tell you what is about to happen but it can point you in the right direction of what you might expect to unfold, and yet we in the West are so wrapped up in the day-to-day…
Collective Defence is the Best Protection Against Cyber Attacks, says IronNet CEO.
State-sponsored computer hackers are weaponising artificial intelligence to launch cyberattacks against western militaries, governments, and private companies, according to a leading industry chief. Potential targets will need to adopt a form of collective cyber defence to protect themselves from sophisticated…
Google’s AI Platform Goes Quiet: Why Bard won’t answer political questions in 2024
In late 2023, Google announced that its AI large language model, named Bard, will be restricted from answering election-related and many other politically-focussed questions in the run up to the 2024 US elections. Google’s announcement coincided with the UK’s National…
Britain’s Nuclear Revolution: Roadmap Unveiled for Unprecedented Expansion
In an exciting move towards energy independence and a cleaner future, the UK government has published a landmark announcement. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, alongside Great British Nuclear, detailed the UK’s most extensive nuclear power expansion plan…
EXCLUSIVE: NSN speaks with Eric Patterson on the Just War Tradition & Quest for Peace
Today, NSN had the privilege of discussing ‘just war’ with Eric Patterson, President of the Religious Freedom Institute in Washington, DC. Patterson is an expert in two areas: the ethics of war and peace, and religious freedom policy. He has…
UK Government Criticised for Being Unprepared Against Catastrophic Ransomware Attacks
In a scathing report released in December 2023, the Joint Committee on National Security Strategy (JCNSS) issued a stark warning that the United Kingdom is alarmingly unprepared for the looming threat of a catastrophic ransomware attack. Highlighting the nation’s vulnerability…
Iran Spends $16bn Funding Terror Across the Middle East
Ali Khamenei – source Iranian government.
Neighbour’s house is on fire and we are watching it burn
TIMOTHY SNYDER, professor of history at Yale University, writes for VRYE Weekblad, saying the US should not decrease its support for Ukraine. YOU have a good neighbour. He does a lot for you. He keeps the street clean around your…
KSE Sounds Alarm: Loopholes in Export Controls Fuelling Russia’s War Machine
The Kyiv School of Economics’ (KSE) Institute, a Ukrainian think tank, and the Yermak-McFaul Expert Group on Russian Sanctions, an international group of independent experts working on the implementation of sanctions against Russia, have released a new report raising critical…
Navigating France’s National Security Landscape: Who is Gabriel Attal, France’s New Prime Minister?
Gabriel Attal, France’s new Prime Minister and the youngest person to ever hold this position, is not a name typically associated with France’s national security strategy. However, in his current and previous roles (Attal has moved to the premiership from…
Opposing Forces: Corrupt Person of the Year and Prisoner of Conscience in Guatemala’s Narrative
In the heart of Guatemala’s battle against corruption lies a narrative of conflicting forces—where justice and impunity collide. Maria Consuelo Porras, Guatemala’s Attorney General, emerged as an unexpected yet controversial recipient of the 2023 Person of the Year award for…
Europol’s Report Unveils Escalating Online Fraud Threat
Europol’s latest report, dubbed “Online Fraud Schemes: A Web of Deceit,” has sounded an alarm on the intensifying threat of online fraud. This eye-opening report unveils the multifaceted evolution of fraud and the far-reaching impact on both the European Union…
Beijing’s Latest Military Purge and Missing Defence Minister Li Shangfu
In the latest restructuring under a new Defence Minister, China has removed nine senior military officials from its Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress. This includes the expulsion of four army generals from the army’s strategic missile unit, marking…
Fears emerge that the assassination of the Hamas leader Salah al Arouri could widen the conflict in the Middle East
The assassination of Hamas’s deputy political leader is a major strategic coup for Israel but his death could be the spark which ignites a wider regional conflict. Saleh al-Arouri was killed in an apparent drone strike on Tuesday in the…
What we know about the Iranian-backed UAV Assault on US Forces in Iraq on Christmas Day
The Pentagon says it successfully carried out retaliatory airstrikes against Iranian-backed terror group Kata’ib Hezbollah in Iraq on Christmas Day. The precision strikes came just hours after a self-detonating drone hit the US Erbil Air Base in northern Iraq wounding…
UK’s Quest for Underwater Defence
In a bid to fortify the nation’s security, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has issued a Request for Information (RFI), aiming to bolster the United Kingdom’s security measures by acquiring cutting-edge underwater defence capabilities. The RFI outlines a critical need…
EXCLUSIVE: NSN speaks with former CIA expert Nicholas Eftimiades on Beijing’s sights on the Moon and NASA’s race back
NSN discusses China’s intelligence operations and motives in space exploration with author and educator Nicholas Eftimiades, an American government official who served in the CIA, DIA, and US Department of State, best known for his work on China and national…
The Decade-Long Tale: UK’s Role in Russian Trade-Based Money Laundering
The UK’s recurring implication as a facilitator of financial crime is highlighted yet again, as Transparency International Russia delved into Russian criminal cases, uncovering a troubling statistic: approximately one in ten money laundering cases implicated British firms. In their report,…
EXCLUSIVE: NSN speaks with Andrew Yeh on the Dangers of China’s Dominance of Critical Supply Chains
In an exclusive interview, NSN speaks with Andrew Yeh, Deputy Director of the China Strategic Risks Institute (CSRI), about the critical challenges Europe faces in its reliance on Chinese supply chains for its solar energy projects. CSRI researches the strategic…
Deepfakes: A Looming Threat to the Fabric of Democracy
In the ever-evolving landscape of technological advancements, deepfakes have emerged as a powerful tool with the potential to disrupt the very foundations of democracy. These manipulated videos, images, and audio files, created using artificial intelligence (AI), can seamlessly stitch together…
State-Sponsored Cyber Attacks: A 20-Year Evolution and National Security Realities
The past two decades have witnessed an unprecedented evolution in the domain of cybersecurity, with state-sponsored cyber attacks emerging as a critical threat to national security. A milestone incident in 2003, where a state targeted the UK Government in a…
Evolving Strategies: Russia’s Continued Sanctions Evasion Triggers Red Alert and New Sanctions Unit Unveiling
In the cat-and-mouse game of international sanctions, Russia’s persistent and adaptable tactics to evade restrictions have triggered heightened concern, prompting the National Economic Crime Centre (NECC) to issue a red alert. In the wake of sanctions imposed on Russia, the…
China’s Uranium Quest and Russian Nuclear Dependency: A Growing Concern for Western National Security
The global race for Uranium concentrate, commonly referred to as U308 has skyrocketed to an unprecedented 15-year high catapulting governments into a desperate bid to secure sources of fuel for power stations. According to André Liebenberg, the CEO of Yellow…
NSN Podcast: Andrew King addresses the existential, generation-defining threat to democracy
This week at National Security News, we launched our weekly podcast, discussing critical national security issues affecting business worldwide, with experts and thought leaders. In our first interview, we spoke with Andrew King, founder of Future Union, about his Intrepid…
“Technology will win the war” – The Strategic Role of Technology in Ukraine’s Defence
In a pivotal meeting held in Kyiv under the leadership of Rustem Umerov, the Minister of Defense of Ukraine, the significance of technology in modern warfare took centre stage. Attended by military representatives from over 30 nations within the IT…
ChatGPT Turns 1: A Year of Disruption and Innovation in the Realm of AI and National Security
The debut of ChatGPT on 30 November 2022, marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI). Developed by OpenAI, ChatGPT quickly captured the world’s attention with its ability to generate human-quality text, translate languages, write different kinds…
EXCLUSIVE: General Petraeus on “Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine”
NSN speaks with General Petraeus about his new book, “Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine” and the critical mistakes we must learn from in order to navigate an increasingly perilous world.
Caught in the Act: Unravelling Tech Espionage – Chinese National Trespassing Raises National Security Concerns
Caught trespassing on SpaceX’s premises on 16 November 2023, Zhaoning Jiang, a Chinese national, claimed innocence, citing casual photo-taking as his motive. However, his intrusion into the grounds has sparked alarm bells about potential tech espionage. SpaceX, renowned for pioneering…
UK’s Cyber Security Agency Publishes First AI Security Guidelines
Lindy Cameron, the Head of the United Kingdom’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), recently made a groundbreaking announcement in the tech realm. Unveiling the world’s inaugural set of security guidelines tailor-made for Artificial Intelligence (AI), this move signifies a significant…
MI5 Chief warns of increased Iranian terrorist activity in Britain
Ken McCallum Chief of MI5, at a security summit in the U.S. on Tuesday, 17 October sounded the alarm on the potential for Iranian-backed terror attacks in Britain amid the Israel-Hamas war. His remarks marked the first time Mr. McCallum…
Israel, Hamas Strike Hostage Deal, 200 Individuals Set for Release in Ceasefire Agreement
Israel and Hamas have struck a deal to release hostages, bringing a momentary pause to the ongoing conflict that has plagued the region for 47 days. During a four-day ceasefire, Israel is set to release 150 Palestinian women and teenagers…
Hostage Deal ‘Close’ but Tensions Persist Amid Progress in Talks and Gal Hirsch’s Troubled Stint
In the midst of escalating tensions and a prolonged hostage crisis, recent developments in negotiations have brought both hope and dismay. Reports from the U.S. and Qatar hint at a potential breakthrough in releasing hostages, saying that a deal is…
U.S. General Kurilla to arrive in Israel as fears of an Expanding Regional War Mount
General Michael “Erik” Kurilla, commander of the U.S. Central Command, is due to fly to Israel on Friday and meet with senior-ranking Israeli defence and military officials to discuss the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and the increasingly tense situation along the…
Britain’s Cyber Security Agency warns of AI Risks to Critical Infrastructure and Elections
“The new front line is online,” a statement by Rt Hon Oliver Dowden resonating louder than ever in the wake of global conflicts such as those in Ukraine, and Israel and Palestine. The evidence of evolving threats is overwhelming—from bots…
Setting the Stage for Ukraine’s Renaissance: The CDAIC and Ongoing Recovery Efforts
National Security News speaks with retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Michael Hewitt, CEO of IP3 International, in an exclusive interview into the pivotal role of a new multifaceted campaign – the Collective Defence AI Fusion Center (CDAIC) – for the…
Hamas under spotlight as Israel agrees to four-hour daily pauses
THE UNITED STATES SAID ON THURSDAY that Israel will enforce brief four-hour humanitarian pauses with three-hour’s advance warning in certain parts of northern Gaza so that civilians know when it is safe to relocate. No ceasefire: Israel’s military has stressed…
Caught in the Crossfire: Hostages, Ceasefires, and the Humanitarian Crisis in Israel-Palestine
In the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, tensions and emotions remain high as it surpasses the one-month mark. The situation is complex, with both sides experiencing hardships and difficulties. Hostages held by Hamas: The fate of the hostages captured…
Ukraine adds Nestle to ‘International Sponsors of War’ List
In a striking move on Friday 2nd November, Ukraine’s National Agency on Corruption Prevention (NACP) added Nestle to its list of “international sponsors of war,” for its continued business in Russia. In a press release announcing the decision, they emphasised…
The Ori Megidish Rescue: Disinformation and Denying Truths in Conflict
In the midst of the heated conflict between Israel and Hamas, misinformation and disinformation are playing a pivotal role in shaping the narrative surrounding a daring rescue operation. On Monday, the world was captivated by a seemingly positive news story…
Russia abandons the ISS to launch its own space station
RUSSIA’S PRESIDENT VLADIMIR PUTIN announced on 26 October, plans to launch a Russian orbital station in 2027, which Moscow sees as the next development in space exploration and a challenger to the 25-year old International Space Station.
Yemen’s Houthi Army | Iran’s Proxy Terror Group on standby to join forces with Hamas and Hezbollah
As the three-week-old Hamas- Israel war wages, there is growing concern that the conflict will consume the entire region, drawing in more actors that are hostile to Israel. Death toll and Casualties To date, attacks have killed around 1,400 Israelis,…
Hostage Crisis Update: IDF Reports 233 Kidnapped, Families Plead for Action
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have raised the alarming count of people kidnapped on 7th October to at least 233. As of now, only four hostages have managed to secure their freedom, including an American mother and her daughter, along…
UK to free trapped British Nationals from Gaza Strip
As the rescue mission to free trapped UK nationals from Gaza escalates, the Cabinet Office has reassured citizens that it is working intensively with international counterparts to establish a safe route out of the strip; however, according to government officials,…
Trump Ally Johnson Takes the Speaker Reins: A New Era for Congress and Allies, with Ukraine in the Balance
In the heart of the United States House of Representatives, a remarkable political chapter unfolds. Mike Johnson has been sworn in as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, putting an end to the unprecedented 22-day vacancy since Kevin McCarthy…
Torture and Massacre in Kibbutz Bari – ZAKA Emergency Response and Rescue Chief, Yossi Landau describes Hamas’ brutal attacks
Warning: This article contains details that some readers may find disturbing The Israeli-is NGO conference, which took place on Tuesday 17 October at the Jerusalem Press Club / Mishkenot Sha’ananim Cultural Center, saw live testimonials from ZAKA volunteers who were…
Hamas claims two hostages rejected by Israel: The Unresolved Fate of Nurit Yitzhak and Yocheved Lifshitz
After the release of two American hostages, Judith and Natalie Raanan, from Gaza, Hamas made an announcement regarding the possible release of two more captives, Nurit Yitzhak and Yocheved Lifshitz. Hamas cited “compelling humanitarian reasons” as the basis for their…
Hope Shines as Americans Judith and Natalie are Freed from Gaza Captivity
On Friday, October 20, 2023, Israel released two American citizens, Judith Tai Raanan and Natalie Raanan, who had been held in Gaza for two weeks. Their release was secured for “humanitarian reasons” through Qatari mediation efforts, as announced by Hamas….
The AI Revolution amidst the Israel-Hamas War
As the onslaught of rockets continued to tear across Israel and Gaza this week, a keynote speech delivered by the US military’s top officer, Admiral Mike Mullen on Tuesday 03 October, days before the Israel-Hamas war broke out could not…
Ukraine Strengthens Infrastructure in Anticipation of Winter Threat from Russia
As of 1 September 2023, data from the Kyiv School of Economics reveals that direct damage to Ukraine’s infrastructure industry caused by Russia has surged to $36.6 billion. In a significant move to safeguard its critical infrastructure and energy facilities…
From Pyongyang to the Frontlines: The Secret Routes of North Korean Munitions
In a startling revelation that spans land and sea, it appears that Russia may have kickstarted a clandestine munitions supply route with North Korea.
What the events of 7 October in Israel demonstrated and what consequences it will have for Ukraine
Ukrainska Pravda writes about the consequences to Ukraine of Hamas’ failed attempt to invade Israel.
Putin Capitalises on Israel-Hamas War
Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy has said that Russia stands to gain from the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, and the attack on Israel could distract allies from the ongoing devastation continuing to unfold in Ukraine.
Gaza Conflict and Pipeline Sabotage – Russia’s Perfect Storm
NSN speaks with Lieutenant General Sir Graeme Lamb about the ties between the Balticconnector shutdown and the Israeli-Hamas conflict.
Qatar Funding Hamas Terror Group
Oil rich Qatar widely condemned for sponsoring extremist groups with the intent of destabilising the Middle East, has been identified as having strong ties to Hamas and being one of its key financial backers, having allegedly donated over $1.8 billion so far.
EXCLUSIVE: Revenge, Retribution and Retaliation – Lt Gen Sir Graeme Lamb calls for Israel to “Take a Knee”
In an exclusive interview, NSN delves into the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict with former Director of Special Forces, Lieutenant General Sir Graeme Lamb.
Israel and Gaza Cyber Warfare Intensifies
Against the backdrop of the ongoing war between Hamas and Israel, virtual soldiers have emerged, as the battle extends into the digital world. Digital warriors, aligned with various cyber groups, are now actively engaged in supporting their chosen sides in…
Tehran’s Role in Fueling Hamas’ Assault on Israel: What We Know So Far
In a shocking and unprecedented move, the Palestinian Islamist Hamas unleashed a massive, multi-fronted onslaught on Israel, hurling thousands of rockets and launching an invasion of gunmen by land, sea, and air. The audacious attack, which occurred on Saturday, saw…
Russia is selling uranium mines to China
Russia has reportedly sold its stakes in certain Kazakh uranium deposits to Chinese-owned companies, marking a significant shift in the global uranium market. The development involves Kazakhstan’s nuclear resources company, Kazatomprom, and Russia’s Rosatom transferring interests to Chinese entities. Kazatomprom,…
Internal turmoil, Zuma’s ‘big boss’ grip, and Zulu focus cap MK party’s vote share at 10-15 per cent
The MK Party continues to allege irregularities in the May elections. Having exhausted legal avenues in South Africa, they are now threatening to escalate their claims to an international court.
Syrian mass graves reminiscent of the Nazis, says war crimes investigator
An international war crimes prosecutor has claimed that evidence emerging from mass grave sites in Syria has exposed a state-run “machinery of death” in which he estimated more than 100,000 people were tortured and murdered since 2013. Former US war…
Cape Town Jewish community terror attack: Urgent GNU action needed to deter further terror
Given the available intelligence on this latest attack, I assess the threat level in South Africa as CRITICAL—meaning an attack is highly likely in the near future.
Ukraine prepares for a Russian air onslaught after the assassination of a Russian general
Moscow is set to launch a series of “devastating” air attacks against Ukraine in response to the assassination of one of its most senior generals, defence sources have revealed. President Vladimir Putin will order his forces to carry out one of Russia’s…
Resurgence of military coups in Africa: “Soldier’s Paradise” promises doomed to fail
History has proven repeatedly that the “soldiers paradise” that military regime in Africa promise will fade quickly.
Ukraine: Resentment against non-combatants and the women who love them – Jerome Starkey
There is still a steely resolve,but it is now mixed with a sense of fatigue and weariness,
McKinsey $122 million US fine: South Africa’s win but corruption continues
State capture, as a form of institutional corruption, continues through extractive politics of the ANC.
Biden Lobito Corridor: US challenges China’s infrastructure dominance in Africa
Africa wasn’t a priority for the United States. “It is only a priority in terms of competition with China,” says Dr Jakkie Cilliers.
Namibia elects first female President, but opposition cries foul
President-elect Nandi-Ndaitwa’s reputation, notably her lack of links to corruption unlike other SWAPO leaders, along with the tendency of voters to prefer “the devil you know,” has, according to Dr. Piet Croukamp of North West University in South Africa, given her an advantage.
