Volt Mobility Enters into $210 Million Contract with Mullen Automotive to Purchase 3,000 Class 1 and Class 3 EV Cargo Vans and Trucks

Volt Mobility is Based in The United Arab Emirates

Current Volt clients include UPS, DHL and FedEx throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council (“GCC”) region, which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Mullen to receive initial $3 million deposit and will begin shipping first vehicles immediately

Volt, a leading UAE-based commercial leasing company with clients including UPS, DHL and FedEx, to purchase 3,000 EV cargo vans and trucks over the next 16 months

BREA, Calif., Aug. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via IBN – Mullen Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ: MULN) (“Mullen” or the “Company”), an electric vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer, announced today that Volt Mobility (“Volt”), based in the United Arab Emirates (“UAE”), has entered into a purchase agreement for approximately $210 million to acquire 3,000 Class 1 and Class 3 EV cargo vans and trucks over a 16-month period. Mullen will receive an initial $3 million deposit within 60 days and additional payments as the vehicles are delivered. The Company will begin shipping the first vehicles immediately.

Mullen expects to recognize approximately $210 million in revenue over the next 16 months of the agreement. Volt intends to lease these vehicles to its corporate customers based in the Middle East and Gulf States. Current Volt clients include UPS, DHL and FedEx throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council (“GCC”) region, which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Volt’s vehicle order will be assembled at Mullen’s Tunica, Mississippi-based Commercial Vehicle Facility, which is capable of producing 20,000 Class 1 and 6,000 Class 3 vehicles annually with two production shifts.

Volt Order Includes 3,000 Mullen ONE’s and THREE’s Over a 16-Month Period

Pictured is the Mullen THREE, Class 3 EV truck with stake body upfit.

Founded in 2020, Volt quickly established itself as one of the largest and most influential commercial EV leasing companies in the region. Volt’s vehicle portfolio includes 17 models with focus on light, medium and heavy-duty electric vehicles. Volt leases vehicles to corporate customers providing first to last-mile delivery for fast moving goods and provides heavy duty trucks for shuttling service across the region, serving clients including large transport businesses under a long-term secured leasing model

The UAE has identified e-mobility as a priority policy area and is now seven years into an ambitious plan to decarbonize its infrastructure and energy production. The Emirate’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050 seek to generate 100% power from clean energy sources by 2050. Furthermore, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (“RTA”) has rolled out a long-term strategy to migrate towards net-zero emission public transport by 2050.

“At Volt, we don’t just follow trends; we set them. Our mission is clear: lead the transformation to sustainable, efficient and cutting-edge transportation,” said Sophia Nau, managing director and CFO for Volt Mobility.

“Volt is reshaping the way people and businesses move across the UAE and GCC,” said David Michery, CEO and chairman of Mullen Automotive. “This landmark agreement provides Mullen with exposure to leading global transportation companies and the opportunity for utilizing Mullen EVs across the UAE and other areas of the Middle East.”

Additional details, including the related agreement, can be found in the Company’s Form 8-K to be filed with the SEC.

Mullen’s commercial EV lineup includes the Mullen ONE Class 1 EV cargo van, the Mullen THREE Class 3 EV cab chassis truck, and the Bollinger B4 Class 4 and Bollinger B5 Class 5 EV cab chassis trucks from its subsidiary, Bollinger Motors. Mullen’s full lineup of commercial EVs is purpose-built to meet the demands of urban last-mile delivery; available for sale and in full compliance with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, the Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board (“CARB”) certifications, denoting strict adherence to clean air emissions standards. The Bollinger B4 begins Start of Production (“SOP”) on Sept. 16, 2024, with deliveries beginning in October 2024.

About Volt Mobility
We are unwavering in our commitment to sustainability, and we firmly believe in the potential of electric mobility to revolutionize industrial transportation. Our steadfast commitment aligns seamlessly with the transformative potential of electric mobility in the industrial sector. By leveraging the latest technologies, we strive to create a cleaner, more efficient and seamlessly connected transportation network tailored for industrial applications. Whether you operate in logistics, manufacturing or any industrial sector, Volt Industrial Mobility is your partner in driving positive change. Join us as we work towards a future where industrial electric vehicles play a pivotal role in creating environmentally conscious, high-performance and cost-effective transportation solutions.

To learn more about Volt, visit www.VoltMobility.group.

About Mullen
Mullen Automotive (NASDAQ: MULN) is a Southern California-based automotive company building the next generation of commercial electric vehicles (“EVs”) with two United States-based vehicle plants located in Tunica, Mississippi, (120,000 square feet) and Mishawaka, Indiana (650,000 square feet). In August 2023, Mullen began commercial vehicle production in Tunica. In September 2023, Mullen received IRS approval for federal EV tax credits on its commercial vehicles with a Qualified Manufacturer designation that offers eligible customers up to $7,500 per vehicle. As of January 2024, both the Mullen ONE, a Class 1 EV cargo van, and Mullen THREE, a Class 3 EV cab chassis truck, are California Air Resource Board (“CARB”) and EPA certified and available for sale in the U.S. Recently, CARB issued HVIP approval on the Mullen THREE, Class 3 EV truck, providing up to a $45,000 cash voucher at time of vehicle purchase. The Company has also recently expanded its commercial dealer network with the addition of Pritchard EV, National Auto Fleet Group, Ziegler Truck Group, Range Truck Group and Eco Auto, providing sales and service coverage in key Midwest, West Coast and Pacific Northwest and New England markets. The Company also recently announced Foreign Trade Zone (“FTZ”) status approval for its Tunica, Mississippi, commercial vehicle manufacturing center. FTZ approval provides a number of benefits, including deferment of duties owed and elimination of duties on exported vehicles.

To learn more about the Company, visit www.MullenUSA.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Any statements contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed forward-looking statements. Words such as “continue,” “will,” “may,” “could,” “should,” “expect,” “expected,” “plans,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about our plans, expectations and objectives with respect to the purchase agreement with Volt, the anticipated purchase and delivery of vehicles and expected revenue. All forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, many of which are generally outside the control of Mullen and are difficult to predict. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including but are not limited to, uncertainty that Volt will abide by its contractual obligations, including payment of the deposit and order of vehicles as expected, the timing and dates for receipt of payments pursuant to the agreement, successful certification of the vehicles in the GCC region,  delays in production and delivery of vehicles, unanticipated returns of vehicles, delayed commercial product launches and the achievement of operational milestones,  and changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions that may affect incentives and the general market for EVs.. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements can be found in the most recent annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K filed by Mullen with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Mullen anticipates that subsequent events and developments may cause its plans, intentions and expectations to change. Mullen assumes no obligation, and it specifically disclaims any intention or obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by law. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made and should not be relied upon as representing Mullen’s plans and expectations as of any subsequent date.

Contact:
Mullen Automotive, Inc.
+1 (714) 613-1900
www.MullenUSA.com

Corporate Communications:
IBN
Los Angeles, California
www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com
310.299.1717 Office
Editor@InvestorBrandNetwork.com

Attachments

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9220336

Zoom Appoints Mike Fenger to Board of Directors

SAN JOSE, Calif., Aug. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Zoom Video Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZM) announced that it has appointed Mike Fenger, vice president Worldwide Sales, Apple, as an independent director on Zoom’s Board of Directors effective immediately.

“Zoom plays an important role connecting people around the world, and I’m excited to join the Board and contribute to its future success,” said Mike Fenger, vice president Worldwide Sales, Apple. “Eric Yuan has built a great team and the company’s dedication to driving innovative technology is inspiring. I’m really looking forward to working with them.”

“On behalf of Zoom’s Board of Directors, I am thrilled to welcome Mike to the team,” said Zoom founder and CEO Eric S. Yuan. “Mike’s experience at Apple, and companies including GE, and his proven track record of global leadership bring valuable insights that align perfectly with our vision. We’re excited to see the fresh perspective and innovative ideas he’ll contribute as we continue driving our growth and success.”

About Mike Fenger

Mike oversees global product sales for Apple, and his team plays an important part in helping customers discover products they love. Since joining Apple in 2008, he has also had a key role in strengthening telecommunications and consumer electronic reseller partnerships, and deepening connections with customers in enterprise, education, and government. He began his Apple career as vice president of Global iPhone Sales, where he led the expansion of iPhone distribution to customers around the globe.

Mike has over 20 years of experience building and leading sales teams for global companies. Before joining Apple, he held senior positions at General Electric and Motorola, where he helped develop and execute strategy for sales, operations, marketing, and supply chain management in the Americas, Europe, and Greater China. Mike is a graduate of Miami University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics.

About Zoom
Zoom’s mission is to provide one platform that delivers limitless human connection. Reimagine teamwork with Zoom Workplace — Zoom’s open collaboration platform with AI Companion empowers teams to be more productive. Together with Zoom Workplace, Zoom’s Business Services for sales, marketing, and customer care teams, including Zoom Contact Center, strengthen customer relationships throughout the customer lifecycle. Founded in 2011, Zoom is publicly traded (NASDAQ:ZM) and headquartered in San Jose, California. Get more information at zoom.com.

Zoom PR
Colleen Rodriguez
Head of Global PR
press@zoom.us

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9220130

KEENON Robotics Showcases Innovative Smart Service Solutions with Embodied Intelligence at 2024 World Robot Conference

BEIJING, Aug. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — KEENON Robotics presented its latest smart service solutions with embodied intelligence at the 2024 World Robot Conference, held at the Beijing Etrong International Exhibition and Convention Center, from 21-25 August 2024. This year’s conference, themed “Foster New Quality Productive Forces, Innovations for an Intelligent Future,” brought together leading experts, industry pioneers, and innovators to explore the latest advancements in robotics technology.

KEENON Robotics’ Booth at World Robot Conference 2024 in Beijing, China
KEENON Robotics' Booth at World Robot Conference 2024 in Beijing, China

KEENON Robotics’ Booth at World Robot Conference 2024 in Beijing, China

At the event, KEENON Robotics introduced its cutting-edge “Smart Hub” experience, providing an immersive showcase of the transformative potential of robotics across various industries, including hospitality, restaurant services, and healthcare.

The exhibit featured an impressive lineup of service robots, including the DINERBOT T10, T9, T8, BUTLERBOT W3, KLEENBOT C30, KEENON S100, Disinfection Robot M2, KEENON Healthcare X101 medical delivery robot, and more. This highlighted KEENON’s commitment to translating advanced robotics into practical applications that enhance operational efficiency and elevate customer experiences.

As KEENON’s Founder & CEO Tony Li remarked, “Robots open the door for AI to enter the physical world.” This vision came to life at the booth, where service robots were seamlessly integrated into meticulously crafted scenarios. Visitors experienced a glimpse into a world where, after entering the gateway tunnel, intelligence is seamlessly woven into everyday life.

In addition to showcasing the innovative robot solutions, KEENON Robotics was honored with the “Top 20 Most Investable Robotics Companies in China” award at the Inaugural China Robotics Venture Capital Summit Forum during the same period. This recognition underscores the company’s role in driving technological innovation and highlights its promising market potential.

KEENON Robotics is at the forefront of integrating advanced AI models into service scenarios. The company’s general-purpose robots have seen significant improvements in environmental sensing, decision-making, and execution through multi-modal AI. By leveraging deep expertise in service environments, these robots are enhanced for greater intelligence and adaptability, enabling effective service across diverse sectors. This showcases the broad applicability and dedication to addressing a wide range of real-world needs.

At the conference, KEENON Robotics demonstrated its pivotal role in advancing the service robotics sector. By pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, KEENON is crafting intelligent solutions that enhance efficiency, convenience, and human-centered design. These innovations are set to transform commercial environments, deliver significant value to global clients, and introduce unparalleled convenience to everyday life, ensuring the widespread benefits of technology.

About KEENON Robotics
A global leader in commercial service robots and solutions, KEENON Robotics has been at the forefront of the advanced service robot market since 2010. Harnessing cutting-edge technologies in robotics and cloud computing, the company is trusted by businesses worldwide. KEENON Robotics is dedicated to creating value, fostering innovation, and contributing to industry growth across various sectors.

For more information, please contact global@keenon.com or visit http://www.keenon.com/en/.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/090e8e6a-0583-4e08-b359-57d6c01fb166

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9220192

Apparel Group continues its Strategic Expansion in the region with 100 New Stores in the First Half of 2024

The new expansion includes globally recognized brands like Hackett London, Levi’s, New Yorker, Ardene, Birkenstock, Dune London, Steve Madden, Athlete’s Co., Beverly Hills Polo Club, Skechers, Tim Hortons, Asics and Allo Beirut

Apparel Group continues its Strategic Expansion in the region with 100 New Stores in the First Half of 2024

Apparel Group continues its Strategic Expansion in the region with 100 New Stores in the First Half of 2024

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Aug. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Apparel Group, the global leader in the fashion and lifestyle retail sector, has hit another record in its successful growth journey by opening 100+ new stores across the Middle East and Asia in the first half of 2024. Representing globally recognised brands like Steve Madden, Dune London, Athlete’s Co., Beverly Hills Polo Club, Aldo, Skechers, Tim Hortons, Asics, Hackett London, Levi’s, New Yorker, Ardene, and Allo Beirut, Apparel Group has imprinted a stronger footprint in key markets including India, Bahrain, the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.

The launch of these new stores clearly highlights Apparel Group’s unwavering commitment to offering customers an exceptional and unparalleled shopping experience. Through these new locations, Apparel Group continues to showcase its dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction, ensuring that every visit is marked by a superior level of service and a wide range of high-quality products.

Neeraj Teckchandani, the CEO of Apparel Group, said, “We are immensely proud to announce the opening of over 100 new stores in the first half of 2024. This milestone reflects our relentless commitment to expanding our footprint and enhancing the shopping experience for our customers in different communities all over the world. Each new store represents not just growth, but our dedication to innovation and excellence in the retail sector. We look forward to continuing this journey of success and delivering unparalleled value to our valued customers.”

These openings highlight Apparel Group’s strategic move towards consolidating its market presence while enhancing its commitment to bringing world-class fashion to the doorsteps of customers in these markets.

About Apparel Group LLC

Apparel Group is a global fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate residing at the crossroads of the modern economy – Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Today, Apparel Group caters to thousands of eager shoppers through its 2,200+ retail stores and 85+ brands on all platforms while employing over 22,000+ multicultural staff.

Apparel Group has not only established a strong presence in the GCC – Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia & Kuwait but also strategically expanded its reach to thriving markets in India, South Africa, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Egypt. Moreover, the company has set clear strategies to venture into promising emerging markets such as Hungary and the Philippines, showcasing its forward-thinking approach.

Apparel Group has curated a diverse portfolio of brands, offering an omni-channel experience. These brands, originating from the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Asia, include leading names in fashion, footwear, and lifestyles such as Tommy Hilfiger, Charles & Keith, Skechers, ALDO, Crocs, Nine West, Calvin Klein, Aéropostale, Jamie’s Italian, Tim Hortons, Cold Stone Creamery, Inglot, and Rituals. This diverse range reflects the company’s versatility and adaptability.

Apparel Group owes its impressive growth to the vision and guidance of its dynamic Founder and Chairwoman, Mrs. Sima Ganwani Ved, who has taken the company from strength to strength since its inception in the last two decades.

https://www.apparelgroup.com/en/
PR@apparelglobal.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/55c3546a-a4fe-4573-b4ed-a45b8fd334ce

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9219558

‫مجموعة أباريل تواصل توسعها الاستراتيجي في المنطقة بافتتاح 100 متجر جديد في النصف الأول من 2024

شهد هذا التوسع مجموعة من أبرز العلامات المشهورة عالمياً مثل هاكيت لندن، ليفايز، نيويوركر، أردين، بيركنستوك، ديون لندن، ستيف مادن، وأثليتسكو، بفرلي هيلس بولو كلوب، سكتشرز، تيم هورتنز، اسيكس، ألو بيروت

مجموعة أباريل تواصل توسعها الاستراتيجي في المنطقة بافتتاح 100 متجر جديد في النصف الأول من 2024
مجموعة أباريل تواصل توسعها الاستراتيجي في المنطقة بافتتاح 100 متجر جديد في النصف الأول من 2024

دبي، الإمارات العربية, Aug. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

حققت مجموعة أباريل، الشركة الرائدة عالمياً في مجالات الأزياء وأساليب الحياة، نجاحاً ملحوظاً في رحلة نموها عبر افتتاح 100 متجر جديد في الشرق الأوسط وآسيا في النصف الأول من 2024. فمن خلال تقديم علامات تجارية بارزة عالمياً مثل ستيف مادن، وديون لندن، وأثليتسكو، وبفرلي هيلس بولو كلوب، وألدو، وسكتشرز، وتيم هورتنز، واسيكس، وهاكيت لندن، وليفايز، ونيويوركر، وأردين، وألو بيروت، نجحت مجموعة أباريل بترسيخ بصمتها في أهم الأسواق العالمية مثل الهند، والبحرين، والإمارات، وعُمان، والسعودية.

افتتاح هذه المتاجر الجديدة يسلط الضوء على الالتزام الراسخ لدى مجموعة أباريل بتقديم تجربة تسوّق استثنائية لعملائها. ومن خلال هذه الفروع الجديدة، فإن مجموعة أباريل تستمر في جهودها نحو تحقيق الإبتكار ورضا العملاء من أجل تقديم أفضل الخدمات والمنتجات لكل ما يزور هذه المتاجر.

وقال السيد نيراج تيكشينداني، الرئيس التنفيذي لدى مجموعة أباريل ” نحن في غاية الفخر لافتتاح أكثر من 100 متجر جديد في النصف الأول من 2024. هذه الانجاز يعكس التزامنا ومثابرتنا لتوسيع حضورنا وتطوير تجربة التسوّق لدى عملائنا في مختلف المجتمعات حول العالم. كل متجر يدل على أكثر من مجرد النمو، بل يدل على الابتكار والالتزام بالتميز في قطاع التجزئة. كما نهدف لمواصلة رحلة نجاحنا وتقديم القيمة الاستثنائية لعملائنا الأعزاء.”

وتسلط سلسلة الافتتاحات التوجه الاستراتيجي لمجموعة أباريل نحو تعزيز حضورها في السوق بالتزامن مع التزامها بجلب الأزياء العالمية الفاخرة للمتسوقين في هذه الأسواق.

لمحة عن مجموعة أباريل

تقف مجموعة أباريل، أكبر مشغل في مجالات الأزياء وأسلوب الحياة، على مفترق طرق الاقتصاد الحديث في مدينة دبي، بدولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة. واليوم، أضحت المجموعة قادرة على تلبية احتياجات ملايين المتسوقين عبر أكثر من 2,200 متجراً وأكثر من 85 علامة تجارية وبتعيين 22,000 موظف من مختلف الثقافات.

حققت المجموعة حضوراً قوياً وراسخاً في دول مجلس التعاون الخليجي في البحرين وقطر وعُمان والمملكة العربية السعودية والكويت كما أنها نجحت في التوسيع استراتيجياً لمجالات تسويقها في الهند وجنوب أفريقيا وسنغافورة وإندونيسيا وتايلند وماليزيا ومصر. وإضافة إلى ذلك، وضعت المجموعة استراتيجيات واضحة للدخول إلى العديد من الأسواق الناشئة مثل هنغاريا والفلبين.

تدير مجموعة أباريل العديد من العلامات التجارية العالمية الشهيرة، التي انطلقت من الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية وكندا وأوروبا وأستراليا وآسيا، وتضم الكثير من الأسماء الرائدة في عالم الأزياء، الأحذية ونمط الحياة على غرار تومي هيلفيغر، تشارلز آند كيث، سكتشرز، ألدو، كروكس، ناين وست،كلفن كلاين، إروبوستال، وغيرها من الأسماء بالإضافة لعلامات تجارية رئيسية مثل تيم هورتنز، جيميز إتاليان، كولدستون كريمري، إنجلوت، ريتوالز وذلك على سبيل المثال لا الحصر.

يذكر بأن الفضل في نجاحات مجموعة أباريل ونموها المذهل يعود لرؤية وتوجيهات مؤسستها ورئيسة مجلس الإدارة سيما جنواني فيد، التي انطلقت بالشركة من القوة إلى الأقوى منذ نشأتها وعلى امتداد عقدين من الزمن.

https://www.apparelgroup.com/ar/
PR@apparelglobal.com

الصورة المصاحبة لهذا الإعلان متاحة على

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GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9219558

Jordan to Complete Second Phase of Electrical Connection with Iraq by Q1 2025


Amman: Jordan is set to complete the second phase of its electrical connection project with Iraq by the first quarter of 2025, according to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources’ 2023 Annual Report.

The project is progressing on schedule, marking a significant milestone in enhancing regional energy cooperation.

The report, released on Sunday, detailed the ongoing civil and engineering work, including the supply of essential materials, circuit breakers, transformers, and related equipment. The implementation of the 400 kV electrical transmission line is also underway.

The project’s second phase focuses on supplying electricity to the Al-Qa’im region in Iraq. The connection, once complete, will deliver between 150 and 200 megawatts (MW) at 400 kV.

This will be facilitated through constructing a 330 kV transmission line and completing the 132/400 kV Al-Qa’im substation on the Iraqi side and the 33/132/400 kV Al-Risha substation on the Jordanian side.

The first phase of the Jordan-Iraq electrical conn
ection, which became operational in the first quarter of 2024, involved supplying the Al-Rutbah region in Iraq with 40 MW at 132 kV, following the construction of a 150-kilometer transmission line on the Iraqi side.

The report also highlighted progress in Jordan’s electrical connection initiatives with other neighboring countries. All technical and economic studies, as well as agreements related to the Jordan-Saudi electrical connection project, have been completed.

An initial agreement has been signed with the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development to secure a loan and guarantee worth 22 million Kuwaiti dinars (approximately $71.6 million) for the project. Final agreements are expected to be signed soon, paving the way for implementation.

Jordan’s electrical grid has been synchronized with Egypt’s since 1999 through a 400 kV submarine cable extending 13 kilometers across the Gulf of Aqaba, with a capacity of 550 MW. The electricity exchange agreement between the two countries is renewed annually, a
nd efforts are underway to increase the connection’s capacity by adding a new submarine cable with dual circuits, each capable of carrying 1,000 MW.

In 2022, Jordan and Palestine strengthened their electrical connection with the construction of the Al-Rama substation, which became operational in July.

The expansion increased the export capacity to the Palestinian territories to 80 MW. Technical studies are currently in progress to further enhance the connection with a high-voltage 132 kV line.

Regarding the Jordan-Lebanon electrical connection, an agreement was signed in 2021 to transit electricity from Jordan to Lebanon via the Syrian grid. However, the project has yet to be implemented, pending the completion of necessary procedural steps.

Source: Jordan News Agency

Japan scrambles jets as China warplane violates airspace

Japan’s Defense Ministry confirmed that a Chinese military aircraft violated Japanese airspace for the first time ever on Monday.

The Y-9 intelligence-gathering plane entered Japanese airspace over waters off the Danjo islands in Nagasaki Prefecture in the East China Sea between 11:29 a.m. (0209 GMT) and 11:31 a.m., prompting the Air Self-Defense Force to scramble fighter jets, the ministry said in a statement.

The Japanese fighters did not use any weapons, according to the ministry.

The Chinese warplane began to circle over waters southeast of the islands, southwestern Japan, at around 10:40 a.m.

The aircraft circled the area again after breaching Japanese airspace, and eventually headed for China at about 1:15 p.m. (0415 GMT).

Following the incident, Vice Foreign Minister Masataka Okano summoned acting Chinese ambassador Shi Yong and lodged a solemn protest over the incursion and strongly urged China to prevent a recurrence, according to the Foreign Ministry.

Source: Kuwait News Agency

Israel: An officer and a soldier killed, and the death toll rise to 702

The Israeli army announced the killing of an officer and a soldier, and said that their families were informed of their deaths, bringing the total number of Israeli officers and soldiers killed whose names were allowed to be published within 4 days to 8.

The Israeli army said that the families of Reserve Major Shlomo Yonatan Hazot and Sergeant David Moshe Ben Shitrit were informed, indicating that they were killed yesterday, Sunday.

It said that Hazot was killed in a battle in the central Gaza Strip at the age of 36, while Ben Shitrit, 21, was killed in the north, according to the Israeli army website.

Thus, the number of Israeli army deaths since October 7th has risen to 702, including officers and soldiers.

Source: National Iraqi News Agency