Sanctioned states like Russia and Iran are increasingly using military-designed civilian aircraft for rapid, covert air transport of sensitive cargo, challenging traditional logistics and regulatory frameworks, and signaling a shift towards strategic airlift as a tool under political constraints.
Israel has launched an airlift operation to repatriate over 50,000 citizens stranded abroad due to Iran's missile attacks and airspace closures, with rescue flights from Cyprus and other European cities, while efforts are underway to evacuate foreign nationals and manage the ongoing crisis.
A zebra named Ed escaped in Rutherford County, Tennessee, and was pursued for nearly a week before being recaptured and returned to its owner, with the animal being airlifted from a pasture near Interstate 24.
The U.S. government has not yet attempted to airlift stranded Americans out of Israel, despite the escalating attacks by Hamas. While some Israeli airlines are still operating flights, U.S. carriers have canceled hundreds of flights until the end of the month. Other countries, such as Poland and Spain, have already evacuated some of their citizens, leading some lawmakers to call for the U.S. administration to do the same. The U.S. State Department is in touch with American citizens in Israel and exploring various options to assist those who want to leave, including contract options by air, land, and sea to nearby countries. However, military evacuation options are typically a last resort due to cost considerations.
Exercise Mobility Guardian 23 (MG23), the largest iteration of Air Mobility Command's premier training exercise, has begun in Guam with major international participation from seven countries. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability and test cargo aircraft capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region, as the U.S. and its allies prepare to challenge China. MG23 involves various mission types, including airlift, aerial refueling, and humanitarian assistance, and serves as a cohesive glue for other exercises in the Indo-Pacific. The event aligns with the Air Force's Agile Combat Employment concepts and addresses integration gaps between allied and partner nations. The exercise highlights the importance of airlift in potential conflicts in the Pacific.
The Coast Guard rescued a German shepherd that fell over a 300-foot cliff onto a remote stretch of Cannon Beach in Oregon. The dog was walking with her owner when she fell and was left stranded on a rocky shore. The Coast Guard airlifted the injured dog to safety within 90 minutes of her fall and reunited her with her owner. Despite the fall, the dog is in great shape and is expected to recover from her injuries.