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The White House has ordered US military forces to focus almost exclusively on enforcing a "quarantine" of Venezuelan oil for at least the next two months, a US official told Reuters, indicating that Washington is currently more interested in using economic rather ⁠than military means to pressure Caracas."While military options ⁠still exist, the focus is to first use economic pressure by enforcing sanctions to reach the outcome the White House is looking (for)," the official said on Wednesday, speaking on condition of anonymity.While President Donald Trump has been publicly coy about his precise aims regarding Venezuela, he has privately pressured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to flee the nation, Reuters has reported.Trump said on Monday that it would be smart for Maduro to leave power."The efforts so far have put tremendous pressure on Maduro, and the belief is that by late January, Venezuela will be facing an economic calamity unless it agrees to make significant concessions to the US," the official said.Trump has accused the South American country of flooding the US with drugs, and his administration has ⁠for months been bombing boats originating in South America that it alleges were carrying drugs.Many nations have condemned the attacks as extrajudicial killings.Trump has also frequently threatened to start bombing drug infrastructure on land, and has authorised covert Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) activity directed at Caracas.So far this month, the US Coast Guard has intercepted two tankers in the Caribbean Sea, both fully loaded with Venezuelan crude.The comments by the White House official on Wednesday come after Reuters reported that the Coast Guard was waiting for additional forces to carry out a third seizure, first attempted on Sunday, against an empty sanctioned vessel known as the Bella-1.Venezuela's UN ambassador Samuel Moncada said on Tuesday: "The threat is not Venezuela. The threat is the US government."The White House official did not elaborate on precisely what it meant for the military to focus "almost exclusively" on interdicting Venezuelan oil.The ⁠US military's footprint sprawls across the globe, and most missions and capabilities are unrelated to maritime interdiction.The Pentagon has amassed a huge military presence in the Caribbean with more than 15,000 troops.That includes an aircraft carrier, 11 other warships and more than a dozen F-35 aircraft.While many assets can be used to help with enforcing sanctions, many others, like fighter jets, are not well-suited for that task.On Tuesday, the United States told the United Nations that it will impose and enforce sanctions "to the maximum extent" to deprive Maduro of resources.Earlier this month, Trump ordered a "blockade" of all sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela, but the White House official's use instead of the word "quarantine" appears to echo language used during the 1962 Cuban missile crisis, when the administration of US president John F Kennedy wanted to avoid an escalation.Robert McNamara, Kennedy's defence secretary at the time, said in 2002: "We called it a quarantine because blockade is a word of war."On Wednesday UN experts condemned the blockade, ⁠saying that such a use of force is recognised "as illegal armed aggression". 

Ukraine launched British Storm Shadow missiles and its domestically produced long-range drones to hit several Russian oil and gas facilities, Ukrainian military and security officials said Thursday.Ukraine has previously used the British-made missiles ⁠to attack Russian industrial targets ⁠that it says help Moscow's war.The Ukrainian General Staff said that the air force used Storm Shadow cruise missiles to strike the Novoshakhtinsk oil refinery in Russia's Rostov region."Multiple explosions were recorded. The target was hit," the General Staff said on the Telegram app Thursday.It said the refinery was one of the biggest oil product suppliers in southern Russia and was supplying diesel and jet fuel to the Russian troops fighting in Ukraine.Ukraine's SBU security service ⁠said that the locally made long-range drones hit oil product tanks in the Russian port of Temryuk in the Krasnodar region and a gas processing plant in Orenburg in southwestern Russia.The Orenburg gas processing plant, the largest facility of its kind in the world, is located about 1,400km (about 870 miles) from the Ukrainian border.In the Krasnodar region, Russian regional authorities said that two oil product tanks caught fire at the southern port of Temryuk after the drone attack.Flames covered an area of about 2,000sq ⁠m, authorities at the Krasnodar operational headquarters said on the Telegram app.As Russia's war in Ukraine approaches its four-year mark and diplomatic efforts to end it have so far failed to produce any tangible results, both Kyiv and Moscow have stepped up their drone and missile attacks on energy facilities.Kyiv has increased its strikes on Russia's oil refineries and other energy infrastructure since August as it seeks to cut Moscow's oil revenues, a key source of funding for its war effort.The Ukrainian General Staff also said that Ukrainian troops hit a military airfield in the Russian city ⁠of Maikop in the republic of Adygea in the North Caucasus region.

The Doha International Music and Marching Festival (Doha Tattoo) made its debut Tuesday at Katara Cultural Village, bringing together renowned military bands for a global celebration of music and marching traditions.The event, under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Interior and Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya) Commander Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, and organised by the Ministry of Interior (MoI) in collaboration with Visit Qatar, will run until December 20.The opening ceremony was attended by His Excellency Lieutenant-General (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed al-Mannai, Chief of Staff of the Qatari Armed Forces, alongside senior state officials.**media[394416]**Organisers stressed that the opening marked a notable Qatari evening, as Doha added a new chapter to its cultural and artistic journey, highlighting military music as a shared cultural language that brings nations together.The programme features military band performances in a visually engaging setting that combines military discipline with artistic expression, uniting sound and movement as Eastern and Western cultures converge at Katara.Participating bands include Qatari ensembles from the Ministry of Defence, the MoI, the Amiri Guard and Lekhwiya, alongside bands from Oman, Jordan, the UK, the US, Turkiye, and Kazakhstan.The bands performed pieces inspired by global military music traditions, celebrating rhythm, culture, and unity in a setting that fosters cultural exchange and honours long-standing military customs, reflecting the warmth, peace, and security that characterise events hosted in Doha.The festival opened with a performance by the Lekhwiya Band, presenting a programme of national military compositions delivered through co-ordinated rhythms and structured formations.**media[394417]**It reflected the band’s strong collective cohesion and was met with positive audience engagement for its celebratory character and national significance.The Jordanian Armed Forces Band, joined by the Silent Drill Team of the Royal Jordanian Guard and the Jordanian Circassian Guard, presented a performance rooted in long-standing military tradition.The Omani Royal Guard Military Band delivered a performance that showcased the Sultanate’s military musical identity through a selection of national and military compositions.Representing the UK, the Central Band of the Royal Air Force performed alongside the King’s Colour Squadron and the Royal Air Force Pipes and Drums.The programme included classical military compositions and national pieces, presented through carefully co-ordinated musical arrangements and ceremonial movement, reflecting the United Kingdom’s established military music tradition.The Qatari Armed Forces Band presented a programme of national and military compositions performed through structured formations and co-ordinated brass arrangements.A joint pipes and drums performance brought together ensembles from Qatar, Oman, Jordan and the UK.Featuring 140 pipers performing in a unified formation, the presentation highlighted the collective nature of military music and its ability to convey messages of co-operation and shared purpose.The US Air Force Honour Guard Band presented a performance combining musical elements with silent drill movements.The presentation focused on co-ordinated formations and ceremonial precision, offering a distinctive display that was met with strong audience appreciation.The Turkish Gendarmerie Band and the Mehter Band presented a programme that reflected one of the oldest military music traditions in the world.Featuring traditional and contemporary compositions performed with brass instruments and structured formations, the presentation highlighted the historical depth of Turkiye’s military musical heritage.**media[394418]**The Band of the Irish Guards delivered a performance combining traditional and modern musical selections.The programme featured brass and woodwind arrangements supported by organised marching formations, creating a refined presentation that resonated well with the audience.The Honour Guard of the Ministry of Defence of Kazakhstan and the Central Military Band of the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan presented a programme that blended traditional and modern musical elements.The first day of the festival concluded with a performance by the MoI Band, represented by the Police Academy Drill Team.The festival featured a theatrical Qatari narrative titled *The Tale of Jassim, depicting the evolution of life in Qatar from the desert to the sea and onward to modern Doha. 

A military court sentenced the former head of Pakistan's powerful Inter-Services Intelligence spy agency to 14 years in prison for violating state secrets and abusing his authority, the army said Thursday.Faiz Hameed, who served during the tenure of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, was also convicted of "engaging in political activities" and causing "wrongful loss to persons", the army's publicity wing said in a statement.Faiz Hameed, a lieutenant general who stepped down in December 2022, was detained in August 2024 after claims he raided the businesses of a real estate developer, according to Supreme Court documents published in 2023.The intelligence chief is considered the second most-powerful position in the Pakistani military."After lengthy and laborious legal proceedings, (the) accused has been found guilty on all charges and sentenced to 14 years rigorous imprisonment by the court," the statement said.It added that an accusation of "fomenting vested political agitation and instability in cohorts with political elements... is separately being dealt with".The statement did not give specific details of Faiz Hameed's purported crimes.Faiz Hameed was a staunch supporter of Khan, who was ousted in a no-confidence vote in 2022 after losing the backing of some top brass, experts say.Khan had openly challenged the military, the most powerful institution in Pakistan, which analysts say is behind the rise and fall of every civilian government.His arrest on corruption charges in May 2023 triggered nationwide protests that fuelled deep public resentment against the army.Once seen as a contender for the prestigious post of army chief, Faiz Hameed took early retirement a few months after Khan lost power.Faiz Hameed was later accused of "multiple instances" of violating the Pakistan Army Act and stripped of all rank."Violations of the Official Secrets Act, the illegitimate use of authority, misusing one's office to harm people, and getting involved in politics to spread chaos — these things were all proven," information minister Attaullah Tarar posted on X after the verdict.He said Faiz Hameed had also been illicitly "interfering with politics" by advising Khan's opposition Tehreek-e-Insaf, or PTI, party after his retirement.Khan has long accused the military of orchestrating his downfall, in particular Field Marshal Asim Munir, the army leader once dismissed by Khan who now is considered the most powerful man in the country."My wife and I have been imprisoned on fabricated charges at his command," Khan charged in social media post this month.That prompted a rare public rebuke by the army's spokesman, who called Khan a "delusional person" who had become a "national security threat". 

France will introduce a voluntary military service of 10 months beginning next year, President Emmanuel Macron said Thursday, in the face of what it views as a growing threat posed by Russia.Almost three decades after France scrapped conscription, the head of state said young adults who wished to could sign up for a 10-month military service."A new national service will be introduced, gradually starting next summer," he said during a speech to troops in Varces-Allieres-et-Risset in southeastern France.But he said volunteers, mostly aged 18 to 19, would be deployed "only on national soil".The announcement comes more than three and a half years into Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with Macron and other French officials warning that Moscow risks not stopping at Ukraine's borders."In the event of a major crisis, parliament may authorise calling upon individuals beyond just volunteers," Macron added, and military "service would become mandatory"."But aside from this exceptional case, this national service is a service of volunteers then selected to meet the needs of our armed forces."France's top general, armed forces chief of staff Fabien Mandon, sparked uproar at home last week by warning that France must be ready "to lose its children", adding that Russia is "preparing for a confrontation by 2030 with our countries".He said it was inspired by fellow European countries."At a time when all our European allies are making progress in the face of a threat that affects us all, France cannot remain idle," he said.The new scheme would include 3,000 volunteers from the summer next year, then increase gradually so as to incorporate 10,000 young people into the army by 2030 and 50,000 by 2035, Macron said.The large majority would be men and women aged 18 and 19, while the rest would be aged up to 25 and would have specific qualifications.While around a dozen states have some form of conscription, the use of military service is uneven across Europe.But France joins European countries such as Baltic states Latvia and Lithuania which have brought it back in recent years, while others such as Denmark have toughened its terms.There is so far no suggestion that the military service in France would be compulsory, as it was before then-president Jacques Chirac abolished conscription in 1997 as part of the reform of the army.Military service is seen as a way of bolstering armies with recruits, but also of providing a large pool of potential reservists, who could be called up in the case of a future war.The French armed forces have approximately 200,000 active military personnel and 47,000 reservists, numbers expected to increase to 210,000 and 80,000 respectively by 2030.Accused of warmongering by the left, General Mandon has expressed no regret over his comments last week, saying the aim was to "alert and prepare" in a "rapidly deteriorating" context.Mandon argued on Saturday that the reactions to his comments "show that this is something that was perhaps not sufficiently perceived in our population".Macron and other officials have been at pains to douse the outcry caused by the general's forthright comments and fears that French youth were heading for the front lines.The president on Tuesday said he needed to dispel any notion that "we are going to send our young people to Ukraine". 

The party of Pakistan's jailed former prime minister Imran Khan demanded a meeting with him Thursday, saying it was worried about his health as he has been barred from seeing his family and lawyers for over three weeks.Khan has been in jail since August 2023, serving a 14-year sentence on corruption charges, one of dozens of cases he says were made up in order for the army to keep him out of politics, a charge the military denies.Zulfikar Bukhari, spokesperson of Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, said no-one has seen Khan since November 4, and no reason had been given for not granting a meeting. Khan is being denied visits and medical support despite his status of a former prime minister."His health is our concern. We are worried about his illegal isolation," Bukhari told Reuters, demanding the government give Khan's family immediate access to him.Khan's family and party members have protested outside the jail in the garrison city of Rawalpindi in recent days demanding a meeting.A delegation from the party visited the prison to see Khan Thursday, but authorities again denied access, Bukhari said.Prison rules allow Khan to meet outsiders at least once a week, although prison authorities can suspend such access. There have been long gaps spanning weeks when Khan was not allowed to meet outsiders, the party said.Local media reported that the 73-year-old former international cricketer might be moved to a high-security prison to make meeting him more challenging.Khan's status has become a talking point on social media and #WHEREISIMRANKHAN was trending on X Thursday.Pakistan's interior ministry did not respond to a request for comment.A jail official told Reuters that the former premier was in good health, and that he was not aware of any plans to move him to any other facility. He spoke on the condition of anonymity as he is not authorised to speak to the media.Khan, elected as prime minister in 2018, was ousted in 2022 through a controversial vote in parliament after he fell out with military generals, who play a significant role in making or breaking governments.His arrest in May 2023 sparked protests against the military nationwide, leading to a crackdown on the party.The party emerged as the single biggest in the 2024 election, but says that rigging robbed it of more seats to help other parties form a coalition government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.Sharif and his allies deny the charges. 

President Emmanuel Macron is set this week to announce that France is restoring military service on a voluntary basis in the face of the growing threat posed by Russia, just under three decades after conscription was abolished in the country.The head of state is due to lay out the change on a visit to an infantry brigade in southeastern France Thursday, according to multiple sources familiar with the decision who spoke to AFP.The announcement will come more than three-and-a-half years into Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with Macron and other French officials warning that Moscow risks not stopping at Ukraine's borders.France's top general, armed forces chief of staff Fabien Mandon, sparked uproar at home last week by warning that France must be ready "to lose its children", adding that Russia is "preparing for a confrontation by 2030 with our countries".Macron told the RTL broadcaster he would be announcing a "transformation of national service into a new form" Thursday, but did not provide further details.A source with knowledge of the matter, who asked not to be named, told AFP that the plan is for 2,000 to 3,000 people to be trained up in the first year, aiming to increase those signing up over time to 50,000 per year.Macron warned that France should not show "weakness" in the face of the threat posed by Russia."If we want to protect ourselves, we French — which is my sole concern — we must demonstrate that we are not weak against the power that threatens us the most," he said.The use of military service is uneven across Europe.But France would join European countries like Baltic states Latvia and Lithuania which have brought it back in recent years, while others such as Denmark have toughened its terms.Military service is seen as bolstering armies with recruits, but also providing a large pool of potential reservists who could be called up in the case of a future war.The French armed forces have approximately 200,000 active military personnel and 47,000 reservists, numbers expected to increase to 210,000 and 80,000 respectively by 2030.The mobilisation on a voluntary basis could serve to meet the needs of "acquiring the mass" necessary for the armed forces to survive in the event of conflict, French land army chief of staff General Pierre Schill said earlier this year.There is so far no suggestion that the military service in France would be compulsory, as it was before then president Jacques Chirac abolished conscription in 1997 as part of army reforms.Germany's coalition government this week agreed on a new voluntary military service model, after weeks of wrangling over whether there should be a compulsory element like in Denmark, where both young men and women are called up in a lottery.Accused of war-mongering by the left, General Mandon has expressed no regret over his comments last week, saying the aim was to "alert and prepare" amid a "rapidly deteriorating" context.According to France's National Strategic Review for 2025, a document that is a cornerstone of official policy, France must "prepare for the possibility of a major, high-intensity engagement in Europe's neighbourhood by 2027-2030, coinciding with a massive increase in hybrid attacks on its territory".The reactions to his comments "show that this is something that was perhaps not sufficiently perceived in our population", Mandon said on Saturday.But ahead of Thursday's announcement, Macron and other officials have been at pains to emphasise that the comments by Mandon focused on the sacrifices made by the armed forces and there was no plan to send France's young to the front line."It is absolutely necessary, at least immediately, to dispel any confused idea suggesting that we are going to send our young people to Ukraine," Macron said Tuesday, adding that Mandon's original remarks had been "taken out of context".

Holes in the ground, clods of earth next to headstones, dislocated concrete outlines: the Thiaroye military cemetery near Dakar bears the marks of recent excavations meant to unearth the truth behind a WWII-era massacre by French colonial forces. In November 1944, around 1,600 soldiers from several west African countries were sent to the Thiaroye camp after being captured by Germany while fighting for France. Discontent soon mounted over unpaid back pay and unmet demands that they be treated on a par with white soldiers. On December 1, French forces opened fire on them. The circumstances surrounding the massacre, the number ofIsl riflemen killed and their place of burial all remain unclear. An AFP team recently visited the camp's cemetery, where archaeologists are conducting landmark excavations to find and examine the remains of those interred there. **media[382436]** Rows of 202 graves, marked with white headstones and cement demarcations, are covered with shells. It is not known who exactly is in all the graves, or if there are even bodies at each marker. The researchers have so far only been able to excavate a very small percentage of them. The cemetery was created in 1926 by colonial France to bury African soldiers. Some researchers believe that riflemen killed in the Thiaroye massacre were buried there. Unearthed burial containers, since covered in blue plastic, bear testament to the archaeologists' work. Senegal alleges it was difficult to access the French colonial archives to study the massacre in full. This is why Colonel Saliou Ngom, the director of the Senegalese army's archives and historical heritage, believes it was necessary to "make the underground" speak. The archaeologists have so far carried out their initial excavations under one of two large baobabs, enormous trees that can indicate the site of buried bodies. The baobab is "a calcareous tree, that is one that likes limestone", history and geography professor Mamadou Kone, technical adviser to the Armed Forces Museum, told AFP. "Where there are bones, there are often baobabs", he said. The researchers submitted an official report on October 16 to Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye describing the massacre as "premeditated" and covered up, with a death toll that had been grossly underestimated. The French colonial authorities at the time of the massacre said up to 70 World War II riflemen were killed. But the researchers said the most credible estimates put the figure closer to 300 to 400, with some of the men buried in the Thiaroye cemetery. One of the archaeologists who led the dig, Moustapha Sall, explained that seven graves were excavated out of a first group of 34. "Archaeologists found seven skeletons. This is a very important step in the search for historical truth," Colonel Ngom said. According to Sall, "one skeleton contains a bullet in its left side in the location of the heart." "Others lack a spine, ribs or skull. Some individuals are buried with iron chains on their shins," he added. "This means they suffered violence." The graves where the bodies are located are more recent than the remains themselves, Sall added. "One hypothesis is that the graves were made after the (initial) burials or that it was staged to make it appear they had been properly buried," Sall said. The next key step, Sall explained, will be taking DNA samples to help determine the individuals' origins. "The preliminary results do not allow us to answer all the questions," he said. Ballistics experts will additionally provide information on the military equipment, he added. Meanwhile, the Senegalese government has ordered ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to better explore the depths of the cemetery's subsoil. "We have been searching for the historical truth for 81 years," Colonel Ngom said. "If the subsoil provides us with (this truth) there is nothing more significant." President Faye, who has committed to preserving the soldiers' memory, has announced he has approved "the continuation of archaeological excavations at all sites likely to contain mass graves". In November 2024, as the atrocity's 80th anniversary approached, French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged that French colonial forces had committed a "massacre" in Thiaroye.

China has advised its citizens to avoid travelling to Japan, following a diplomatic feud sparked by remarks from Tokyo’s new premier about a hypothetical attack on Taiwan. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told parliament on November 7 that use of force against the self-ruled island claimed by China could warrant a military response from Tokyo. On Friday, Beijing said that it had summoned Japan’s ambassador, while Tokyo said it had summoned China’s ambassador after an “inappropriate” and now-removed online post. Tokyo has since said its position on Taiwan, just 100km from the nearest Japanese island, is unchanged. In an online post late Friday, China’s embassy in Japan warned its citizens against travelling to the country. “Recently, Japanese leaders have made blatantly provocative remarks regarding Taiwan, severely damaging the atmosphere for people-to-people exchanges,” the WeChat post said. The situation presents “significant risks to the personal safety and lives of Chinese citizens in Japan”, it added. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese embassy and consulates in Japan solemnly remind Chinese citizens to avoid travelling to Japan in the near future.” **media[382304]** Reacting to the statement, Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara told reporters Saturday that Beijing’s call was “inconsistent with the promotion of a strategic and mutually beneficial relationship”, Jiji Press reported. The Japanese government has requested the Chinese side to take “appropriate measures”, Jiji reported. In a further development Saturday, China’s largest airlines offered full refunds for flights on Japan routes before the end of the year. Air China, China Southern and China Eastern all published separate statements on the policies, which will allow ticket holders to refund or change Japan itineraries free of charge for flights from Saturday through December 31. Beijing insists Taiwan, which Japan occupied for decades until 1945, is part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to seize control. China and Japan are key trading partners, but historical mistrust and friction over territorial rivalries and military spending often test those ties. Takaichi, a conservative and China hawk, has toned down her rhetoric since assuming office last month. But just weeks into her administration, the neighbours are at odds. Addressing parliament on November 7, Takaichi said that an armed attack on Taiwan could warrant sending troops to the island under “collective self-defence”. If an emergency in Taiwan entails “battleships and the use of force, then that could constitute a situation threatening the survival (of Japan), any way you slice it”, she said. Security legislation passed in 2015 allows Japan to exercise the right to “collective self-defence” under certain conditions including if there was a clear danger to the country’s survival. **media[382305]** Despite the escalating diplomatic spat, Takaichi has indicated she has no intention of retracting her statement and insisted it was consistent with Tokyo’s long-standing policy. But she said she would refrain from referring to specific scenarios in the future. Previous Japanese prime ministers have avoided commenting directly on Taiwan’s defence, choosing instead to maintain so-called strategic ambiguity. The United States has also long been deliberately ambiguous on whether it would deploy its military to defend Taiwan. The most recent row escalated last weekend when the Chinese consul general in Osaka, Xue Jian, posted about “(cutting) off that dirty neck”, apparently referring to Takaichi. Japan lodged a protest over the since-removed social media post, and Takaichi’s ruling party passed a resolution calling for the envoy to be declared persona non grata. Before taking power, Takaichi, an acolyte of ex-premier Shinzo Abe, was a vocal critic of China and its military build-up in the Asia-Pacific. Takaichi has visited Taiwan in the past and met Taipei’s representative at a recent Apec summit, where she also held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The 47th CISM World Military Parachuting Championships Qatar 2025 got off to a spectacular start on Saturday. His Excellency Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs inaugurated the championship. The opening ceremony was also attended by His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, and Lieutenant General (Pilot) Jassim bin Mohammed bin Ahmed bin Mohammed al-Mannai, The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, along with several senior officials and guests. Organized by the Air Sports Committee at Umm Shakhout Airport, the championships will run from November 15 to 23, with the participation of 320 male and female athletes from 30 countries, representing the elite of military parachuting champions. **media[382266]** The Qatar Air Sports Committee (QASC) presented stunning displays by the world record-holding paramotor team and the 2025 record-holding aerobatics team. In his speech at the opening ceremony, His Excellency Brigadier General Mohammed bin Zayed al-Otaibi, Commander of the Joint Special Forces and Chairman of the QASC, said the gathering of the world's nations under the umbrella of this prestigious championship represents a profound sporting and humanitarian message, confirming that military sports has been and remains a bridge for acquaintance, a platform for cultural exchange, and a means to promote the values of friendship and peace among the armies of different continents. His Excellency Brigadier al-Otaibi added: “Organizing this major global sporting event would not have been possible with such distinction were it not for Qatar’s extensive experience, high capabilities, and advanced potential in hosting major championships." **media[382265]** "Doha has proven time and again that it is a world-class destination capable of innovative organization and providing a comprehensive, safe, and seamless experience for all participants. We extend our sincere gratitude and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar for his unwavering support of sports activities across all disciplines and for his wise vision that has made sports a cornerstone of human connection among the peoples of the world. We also express our deep thanks to His Excellency Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan al-Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs, for his generous support and commitment to providing all necessary facilities for the armed forces and guests of the tournament, which greatly contributed to the success of this edition. We would also like to express our profound appreciation to His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, and to all the organizing bodies that dedicated their resources to ensuring the success of this global event."

Qatar is set to welcome the world's elite military parachutists from November 13 to 23 for the 47th CISM World Military Parachuting Championships.This was announced at a press conference on Wednesday at Umm Al-Shokhot Airfield.The 10-day event will be a gathering of skill and spirit, featuring 320 parachutists hailing from some 30 countries. The event, to be organized by the Qatar Air Sports Committee (QASC), promises spectacular displays of aerial precision.This championship marks a proud return for Qatar, which previously hosted the 44th edition in 2021—an event that earned widespread praise from the International Military Sports Council (CISM) for its impeccable organization and high caliber of competition.Lieutenant Colonel Abdullah Saeed Al Mansouri, Vice Chairman of QASC, on Wednesday said Qatar is ready to stage what will be a global event."This championship represents a vital opportunity for exchanging expertise and actively strengthening human and cultural ties between nations," Al Mansouri said.He noted that preparations for the massive undertaking had been extensive, with the QASC putting "considerable efforts" into ensuring Umm Shakhout Airport was perfectly ready. Every technical and organizational detail has been finalized to the highest standards.The focus then turned to the home team. Lieutenant Colonel Al Mansouri confirmed that the country would be represented by the Qatari Target Team, expressing his deep confidence in their ability to deliver a performance "befitting the reputation of Qatari sports.""We promise you an exceptional championship," he said.He attributed the foundation for this success to the nation's leadership, the gracious patronage of His Excellency the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs, and the dedicated efforts of everyone involved, from the Chief of Staff to the organizing committees and supporting entities."Everyone's cooperation is the guarantee for the tournament's success and its presentation in a manner befitting Qatar's global reputation," he said.The countdown has officially begun for a spectacular showcase of military precision and global camaraderie in the skies over Qatar.Captain Hazza Al-Attiyah, Secretary General of the QASC, said that a Local Organizing Committee chaired by the Commander of the Joint Special Forces was overseeing all stages to meet the highest international standards.The 320 parachutists will test their mettle across three thrilling disciplines: the aerial ballet of Formation Skydive (FS-4Way), the rapid, focused maneuvers of the Style Competition, and the ultimate test of canopy control in the Accuracy Competition.These events, open to men, women, and juniors, will strictly follow CISM and international rules, with full adherence to WADA regulations, ensuring absolute integrity in the skies.Captain Al-Attiyah emphasized that hosting this global gathering represents a significant addition to Qatar's military and sporting journey, embodying the national vision to become a premier destination for international championships.The event wasn't solely about the competition, however; it also celebrated legacy. A cultural cornerstone of the opening ceremony will be the inauguration of the Air Sports Museum, a first for the State of Qatar. This museum is intended to document the rich history and achievements of national air sports, preserving the legacy for generations to come.Salem Al-Fahida, Head of Media Affairs and Chairman of the Tournament's Media Committee, described the CISM World Military Games as a "global sporting epic that combines skill, courage, and a spirit of challenge." Al-Fahida stressed that the professional Qatari media would be an active partner in conveying the honorable image of the global event.Meanwhile, Lieutenant Abdulaziz Al-Hajjaji, captain of Qatari Target Team, confirmed the squad's "complete readiness" to take part in the the world's most prominent military sporting event.

Russia and Ukraine traded claims on Wednesday over the downing of military drones, as the conflict between the two countries continues unabated since Feb. 24, 2022. Ukrainian authorities said their air defense systems had shot down 61 Russian drones across northern, southern, and eastern regions of the country.Meanwhile, Russia's Ministry of Defense announced in a statement that its air defense forces had destroyed 40 Ukrainian drones over several areas during the previous night.Reports from both sides regarding the ongoing Russian military operation in Ukraine have frequently contradicted each other, particularly in terms of battlefield developments.