July 18, 2023

Seoul, South Korea   For the first time in decades, a nuclear-capable US Navy ballistic missile submarine, by  has made a port call in South Korea. This move comes just days after North Korea test-fired what it claimed was a solid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile. The presence of the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine in the South Korean port city of Busan was announced by the country’s Defense Ministry on Tuesday afternoon. It came as Kurt Campbell, coordinator for the Indo-Pacific at the US National Security Council, was at the inaugural meeting in Seoul of the Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG). The NCG is a joint US and South Korean panel set up by the countries’ leaders at a summit in Washington in April. The arrival of the submarine follows a period of heightened tensions on the peninsula. North Korea has conducted tests of what it claimed to be an advanced long-range missile. Kim Yo Jong’s Warning   Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and a senior official in her own right, said in a statement Monday the deployment of a US ballistic missile submarine to the peninsula would damage already fractured lines of communication between the two sides. Statement warns US’s extended deterrence & alliance may push DPRK away from negotiating table. It views these actions as threatening and counterproductive to dialogue. “The reality before the DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) is not dialogue repeatedly touted by the US,” said Kim. NCG discussed nuclear use against DPRK & US sub’s first entry into Korean Peninsula waters in 40 years, revealed. Additionally, it threatened to shoot down US military reconnaissance aircraft engaged in what it labeled “hostile espionage” activities near its territory.   Sub can carry up 80 warheads   Known colloquially as “boomers,” each of the Ohio-class subs can carry a maximum of 20 Trident II ballistic missiles. According to the Nuclear Threat Initiative, each Trident missile can carry four nuclear warheads. This means each US ballistic missile submarine could potentially have around 80 nuclear warheads onboard. Port call agreed upon by US President Biden & South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol during their April meeting in the US. It highlighted the shared commitment to regional security and cooperation. The “Washington Declaration” encompassed measures aimed at deterring Pyongyang from attacking its southern neighbor. These actions aimed to dissuade any potential aggression. US-ROK Alliance Summary   Biden: Mutual defense treaty ironclad. We’re committed to extend deterrence, including nuclear threat & deterrent. The establishment of the NCG came out of that Biden-Yoon meeting. In a joint statement on Tuesday the two allies said the NCG would enhance “combined deterrence and response posture.” With the support of  US & ROK’s collective strength ensures peace & stability on the Korean Peninsula & Indo-Pacific region. It highlighted the shared commitment to regional security and cooperation. In the inaugural NCG meeting, the US reaffirms and strengthens its commitment to extend deterrence to ROK, backed by the full range of US capabilities, including nuclear options Little military value   “US Navy sub in South Korean port = symbolic, analysts say. In fact, it would reduce the military value of the sub. US & South Korea reduce sub’s stealthiness, says Carl Schuster, former US Pacific Command director. Trident missiles: 4,600-mile range, capable of targeting North Korea from vast Pacific, Indian, or Arctic oceans. “In April, Blake Herzinger said US submarines don’t need to be near Korea to reach potential targets.” One of the keys to nuclear deterrence is uncertainty. US ballistic missile sub lurks deep in ocean, within striking range of Pyongyang, thousands of miles away. However, it would be near impossible for North Korea to spot. One arriving in South Korea on a port visit must arrange it 24 to 48 hours in advance. This visibility gives North Korea an advantage,” Schuster said. “If Kim Jong Un was looking to do a surprise strike, we’ve given him the submarine’s location and time it will be there,” Schuster said. He expressed concern over the potential risks. Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2023/07/18/asia/us-navy-ballistic-missile-submarine-south-korea-intl-hnk-ml/index.html

UN Warning: Extreme Heat – A Growing Health Risk   Amidst the dangerous and rapidly growing health risk of extreme heat worldwide, the United Nations’ World Meteorological Organization emphasizes the importance of “Heat waves are amongst the deadliest natural hazards, with hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths each year,” John Nairn, the organization’s senior extreme heat adviser, said Tuesday in a news conference. Furthermore, extreme heat impacts economies and livelihoods. Heatwaves can disrupt industries, such as agriculture and tourism, causing economic losses and job displacements. In the agricultural sector, crop failures and livestock losses due to extreme heat can result in food shortages and price spikes. Tourism-dependent regions may suffer decreased visitor numbers and revenue as extreme heat makes outdoor activities less appealing. collaborate with local businesses and industries to develop heat-adaptation strategies and emergency response plans, safeguarding economic interests and livelihoods during heatwaves. Extreme Heat and Climate Challenges In addition to immediate health risks, extreme heat exacerbates climate change-related challenges, including wildfires, droughts, and food and water scarcity. It can lead to reduced agricultural productivity, impacting food security and economic stability. Addressing these complex issues requires a comprehensive approach, with security services playing a crucial part in disaster preparedness and response. As the global climate continues to change, proactive and adaptive measures become increasingly essential in safeguarding our communities from the escalating risks of extreme heat. “Heat is a rapidly growing health risk due to increased rapid urbanization, the increasing extreme temperatures and an aging population,” he said while speaking to reporters in Geneva.” Security Service Combat Heat & Climate Health Risks   Nairn emphasized the implications of extreme heat on health, including the fact that repeated high nighttime temperatures are “particularly dangerous” and could lead to “increased cases of heart attacks and death,” because the body is unable to recover from sustained heat throughout the day. Nairn also talked about the reasons why this extreme weather is happening. According to John Nairn, extreme weather patterns are no longer the norm, and they are consequences of climate change. Play a crucial role in addressing these ongoing challenges. “It is global warming and is going to continue for some time,” Nairn added. John Nairn highlighted extreme heat’s health implications, especially high nighttime temperatures leading to increased heart attacks and death. Therefore, he linked these extreme weather patterns to climate change, stating global warming’s continuous impact that  are crucial in addressing these ongoing challenges. These services can play a critical role in monitoring and responding to heatwaves, ensuring public safety during heat emergencies, and providing timely support to those in need. Source: https://edition.cnn.com/world/live-news/global-heat-wave-weather-temperatures-07-18-23/index.html

Security Challenges – Corps Commanders Conference Rawalpindi Corps Commanders address the impact of TTP sanctuaries & access to advanced weapons on Pakistan’s security. Strategic responses needed to counter cross-border terrorism effectively. Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir chaired the 258th Corps Commanders Conference at the GHQ on Monday. The forum expressed rich tribute to the valiant soldiers who persistently offer supreme sacrifices in the defense of their motherland against the threat of terrorism. The Corps Commanders’ Conference remains a vital platform for strategic planning and decision-making, fostering synergy among various stakeholders to address multi-dimensional challenges effectively. The unified dedication of military leadership, and government agencies ensures the safeguarding of the nation’s interests. Therefore, as the country continues to face evolving threats, the forum’s in-depth discussions and policy initiatives play a crucial role in shaping a resilient and secure future for the nation. Internal Security & Operational Preparedness Additionally, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) provided detailed briefings to the participants about the prevailing internal security environment. The discussions highlighted the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens amidst evolving security threats. The forum also underscored the role of  beyond in implementing disaster preparedness and response plans, emphasizing the importance of their swift and efficient actions during emergencies. During the forum’s detailed deliberation on the operational preparedness and training aspects of the Army, the COAS emphasized the significance of objective training in maintaining professionalism. Played a vital role in ensuring readiness and proficiency.  The forum also received an update on the government’s economic revival plan and the Army’s role in uplifting the agriculture, IT, mining, mineral, and defense production sectors under the Special Investment Facilitation Council. Economic Revival & Sustainable Growth The participants pledged full support to the Government of Pakistan’s strategic initiatives for economic revival. They commit to providing technical and management assistance for the overall welfare of the people. The forum discussed the importance of incorporating green practices and promoting renewable energy solutions to reduce the carbon footprint and combat climate change. Therefore, they underscored the need for inclusive policies that empower marginalized communities and promote social equity. Moreover, the participants highlighted the role of security services in facilitating economic growth by ensuring a safe and secure environment for investment and business operations. They emphasized the importance of law enforcement in maintaining law and order, protecting property rights, and fostering a conducive atmosphere for economic activities. Source: https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1091506-army-airs-dismay-at-sanctuaries-of-terrorists-in-neighbouring-country