Regional Explosive Ordnance Disposal Operations in the Near East

The Bureau of Counterterrorism (CT) of the U.S. Department of State announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to provide specialized explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), counter improvised explosive device (C-IED), and post-blast investigation training and equipment to security forces in Iraq, Lebanon, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states. The program aims to strengthen the capabilities of foreign governments to identify, render safe, disarm, and properly dispose of unexploded ordnance (UXO) and other explosive materials. The program will also enhance post-blast investigation capabilities to support attribution efforts and prosecution of perpetrators who attempt to weaponize these materials. Key aspects of the program include: * Training activities, such as specialized EOD courses and post-blast investigation and forensic analysis training * Equipment provision, including limited procurement of necessary equipment * Regional coordination, including information-sharing platforms and joint training exercises * Country-specific considerations, such as coordination with Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Service and Lebanese Armed Forces * Compliance and vetting requirements, including human rights vetting and equipment transfer regulations * Performance monitoring and evaluation, including the use of SMART indicators and a performance monitoring plan (PMP)