Chapter 73-74-75

Chapter 73: Special Missions

Still in December, Gustavo's first orders for Brazilian special operations were issued. The president, determined to protect Brazil and support Israel in the war against Hamas and Hezbollah, gathered his military council in a closed meeting at the Planalto Palace. Alongside him were his security advisers, the commanders of the Armed Forces, and representatives of ABIN and the Federal Police.

Gustavo began the meeting firmly:

— "Gentlemen, the time for action has come. Our special forces are ready to show the world that Brazil not only has the capacity to protect its citizens, but also to conduct complex military operations. We are coordinating with our allies, the United States and Israel, who have already sent elite forces such as DEVGRU and Delta Force for joint operations in the Middle East. Our troops will be at the center of this."

General Freitas, commander of the special operations forces, stood up, pointing to a map projected on the screen.

— "GRUMEC, the Amphibious Commandos, the COT and the Special Forces are already mobilized. They have received extensive training in operations in arid, urban and maritime terrain. The first missions include the neutralization of Hamas leaders and the destruction of Hezbollah rocket launch bases, located in highly protected zones. We will have air support from Israeli drones and logistics from the United States."

The meeting was brief but decisive. With orders in hand, Brazil was about to embark on an unprecedented military operation.

At the Tabatinga military base, where the special troops were being prepared, the commander of the Amphibious Commandos, Captain Oliveira, gave his team the final instructions.

— "The mission is clear: eliminate the terrorist infrastructure and neutralize the leaders. We have the support of Delta Force, DEVGRU and MOSSAD on the ground. We will operate side by side with some of the best forces in the world, and all eyes will be on us. We will prove that Brazil is also a powerhouse in the field of special operations."

Outside the briefing room, the atmosphere was tense but also confident. The Brazilian troops had already undergone intensive training and were prepared to face the challenge. The Amphibious Commandos and GRUMEC, accustomed to maritime and river infiltration missions, had one of the most critical tasks: to enter coastal areas discreetly and neutralize enemy positions before the large ground forces could enter.

At the same time, the COT (Tactical Operations Command) of the Federal Police was preparing its operations in urban areas, coordinating attacks against terrorist cells hidden in cities. They would be responsible for dismantling Hamas and Hezbollah financing and supply networks, with the support of intelligence provided by ABIN.

The first operations were a success. In the early hours of a Tuesday, the Brazilian Special Forces, together with the Delta Force, DEVGRU and MOSSAD, conducted a daring operation in an area heavily controlled by Hamas. The mission's objective was to destroy a series of underground tunnels that connected weapons factories to rocket launch sites.

GRUMEC infiltrated from the sea, deactivating sea mines and paving the way for amphibious commandos to conduct a surprise approach. At the same time, UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, with Brazilian and American operators, flew over the area, providing air support.

Captain Oliveira, personally leading the raid, coordinated the troops with precision. Communications between the Brazilian, American and Israeli forces flowed in perfect synchrony.

"All primary targets eliminated, Captain!" — one of the Amphibious Commandos operators announced over the radio.

"Retreat and await evacuation. We're going to get out of here before enemy forces can react."

The missions continued for weeks, with remarkable efficiency. On several occasions, Brazilian troops operated together with Americans and Israelis in coordinated attacks on strategic installations.

CNN and the BBC quickly began to cover the operations intensively, with reporters on the front lines and military analysts praising Brazil's performance. One of the most frequent comments was how astonishing the level of preparation and competence of Brazil's special forces was, since they had not previously been directly involved in large-scale conflicts outside their territory.

In the BBC studio, presenter Susan Higgins was interviewing a British military expert, Colonel Andrew Parker.

— "Colonel, what do you have to say about the performance of the Brazilian forces so far?"

— "It's impressive, Susan. Brazil has always been seen as an emerging power in economic and diplomatic terms, but now the world is seeing its military capabilities at a new level. The operations carried out by its special forces, alongside some of the best in the world, have been impeccable. And for many analysts, this raises a question: how long has Brazil been developing these capabilities without the world noticing?"

The colonel continued, pointing to drone footage showing Brazilian operations:

— "Brazilian special forces have shown a level of professionalism and operational discipline that few expected. And with direct intelligence and logistics support from the US and Israel, they are carrying out missions that were previously the preserve of traditional military powers."

On the streets of Brazil, popular support was growing. In front of the Planalto Palace, protesters held banners supporting the military operations and Gustavo's decision to confront terrorism so directly. At the same time, on social media, people shared messages of pride in the performance of the Brazilian armed forces.

In the palace's situation room, Gustavo watched with satisfaction the updates on the missions. Alongside Paola and his advisors, he read reports sent directly from the battlefield.

— "Our troops are performing incredibly well," said Defense Minister. "The collaboration with the Americans and Israelis is working in an exemplary manner. The world is seeing a new Brazil."

Gustavo nodded confidently:

— "This is just the beginning. We will continue our operations until Hamas and Hezbollah are completely neutralized. Brazil will no longer accept threats. And the world will know that we are ready to defend our interests wherever necessary."

Paola, standing next to Gustavo, took his hand, offering a supportive smile. She knew how much this decision affected him, but she was also proud of his leadership. Brazil was entering a new chapter in its history, and they were both at the center of this transformation.

The operations would continue in the following days, with more successful missions and Brazil showing the world that its special forces were as capable as the greatest powers. The war on terror was just beginning, and Brazil was ready to lead.

Chapter 74: January Operations Success

The beginning of January brought significant results on both fronts in which Gustavo's government was involved: operations against Hamas and Hezbollah abroad and the war against criminal factions within Brazil. Brazilian special forces continued to demonstrate their excellence in international operations, while domestic security made great strides.

In Rio de Janeiro, the decrease in daily gun battles was notable. Neighborhoods previously dominated by drug trafficking, such as Vila Cruzeiro and Complexo do Alemão, began to experience unprecedented calm. The security forces, including specialized battalions such as BOPE and federal troops, were relentless in their operations. Leaders of the PCC (Primeiro Comando da Capital) and Comando Vermelho factions were hunted down and captured or eliminated in confrontations. Those who tried to resist or fight back were killed in carefully planned operations.

At the BOPE operations base, Commander Moura was reviewing the details of that morning's mission with his officers.

— "Gentlemen, we have precise information that one of the PCC leaders is hiding in a house in the Penha Complex. Our team will enter with the support of the National Force. There is no room for error. If there is resistance, try to neutralize the threat. We cannot leave any gaps for these criminals to escape."

The officers' eyes were full of determination. After months of intense pressure, they felt they were turning the tables. The order was given, and the operation began. Helicopters flew over the designated areas, and armored vehicles entered the favelas with surgical precision.

Over the course of the morning, a series of raids in critical areas led to the arrest of one of the most wanted leaders of the Comando Vermelho, known as Carioca. He was responsible for a large part of the drug trafficking operations in the state and was hiding in an improvised bunker in one of the houses.

When he was detained, the reaction of the local population was mixed. Some residents, who were coerced by the criminals, quietly applauded the operation. Others, fearful of future retaliation, remained silent, but the mood on the streets was one of change.

Meanwhile, abroad, joint operations between Brazil, the United States and Israel continued to achieve successes against Hamas and Hezbollah. Brazilian special forces stood out for their precision and collaboration with international troops. The missions to infiltrate and neutralize terrorist cells were carried out without significant failures, which earned praise from the international community.

At the central command in Tel Aviv, US General James Donavan praised the Brazilian forces alongside their Israeli colleagues.

— "The Brazilians have been exceptional partners. Not only have they adapted quickly to the war environment here, but they have also excelled in their own missions. GRUMEC and the Amphibious Commandos have shown competence and courage worthy of the best special forces in the world."

The positive feedback reached Gustavo directly, who closely followed every move both in Brazil and in the Middle East. He was proud of the Brazilian armed forces and security forces, which were fulfilling their mission with discipline and success.

The results did not go unnoticed in the media. The headlines of the main media outlets highlighted the success of the operations both domestically and internationally.

Globo published a special report entitled: "Security and Peace: How the Government is Winning the War Against Factions". The text included testimonies from public security experts and community leaders, who commented on the visible change on the streets of Rio de Janeiro and other capitals in the country.

In the report, sociologist Carlos Albuquerque was interviewed and stated:

— "The numbers don't lie. The reduction in gunfire and the visible presence of factions in peripheral areas is a victory for the government and for Brazil. We still have a long way to go, but it is undeniable that there has been significant progress."

On CNN Brasil, anchor William Waack conducted an analysis of the impact of the operations.

— "We have never seen such a coordinated and effective attack on organized crime in Brazil. The question remains: will we be able to maintain this pressure and prevent these factions from reorganizing? But, at the moment, there is no denying the good results."

The international channel Al Jazeera, in turn, focused on Brazilian military operations in the Middle East. In an interview with a military expert, the broadcaster highlighted how Brazil was consolidating itself as an emerging military power, with high-level special forces, prepared for missions in complex terrain.

— "What we see now is a Brazil that not only protects its internal interests, but also positions itself as a relevant actor in geopolitics," commented analyst David Goldstein.

At the Planalto Palace, Gustavo and Paola watched the media reactions with satisfaction.

— "What impresses me most," said Paola, "is to see how Brazil is transforming so quickly. People are beginning to believe that security and peace are possible."

Gustavo smiled and took Paola's hand.

— "That has always been our goal, hasn't it? To show the world and Brazil that we can be a strong, secure and respected nation. But this is just the beginning. There is still much work to be done."

The Minister of Defense entered the room with updated reports.

— "President, the operations in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo continue at full steam. We are surrounding the last stronghold of resistance of the Comando Vermelho in the state of Rio. By the end of the month, we will have neutralized all the main leaders."

Gustavo nodded, thanking the minister.

— "Excellent work, general. Keep it up. I want Brazil to be free of these criminal factions."

The operations continued throughout the month, with the country seeing a drastic decrease in violence rates. The factions, which had previously dominated large urban areas, were weakened, and their leaders were arrested or killed. The coordinated strategy between federal and state forces was yielding results, and Brazil was beginning to breathe a sigh of relief.

By the end of January, the mood on the streets was one of optimism. The news was dominated by military successes and the feeling that, for the first time in decades, organized crime in Brazil was on the decline. The country watched closely as Gustavo's government advanced its crusade for national security, both domestically and abroad.

Chapter 75: A New Brazil Shining to the World

February 2025 brought a reality that many Brazilians dreamed of, but few believed was possible: a safer and more peaceful country. Since the beginning of Gustavo's term, operations to suppress organized crime were producing clear results. Factions such as the PCC and the Comando Vermelho, which once dominated entire parts of major cities, were weakened. The government's forceful response, with the support of federal, state and special forces security forces, had made Brazil a much safer place for its citizens and visitors.

With the sharp decline in crime, the country was experiencing a moment of rebirth. The calm on the streets brought a positive side effect: tourism was on the rise, and foreigners from all corners of the world were rediscovering Brazil as a vacation and leisure destination. The country's natural beauty, vibrant cities and warm culture made it shine internationally.

In Rio de Janeiro, the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana were packed with tourists, not only from neighboring countries, but from Europe, Asia, North America and even Oceania. Júlio, a tour guide with more than 20 years of experience, noticed the difference compared to previous years.

— "I've never seen Rio like this. I've been through ups and downs in this city, but now... tourists are no longer afraid to walk the streets. The police are strong, and muggings have almost disappeared."

He was accompanying a group of American tourists as they passed Sugarloaf Mountain, one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

— "It's amazing how safe we ​​feel here," commented Lisa, a tourist from California. "My friends warned me about Brazil before I came, telling me to be careful. But honestly, I didn't feel unsafe at all."

James, an engineer from Texas who was traveling with his family, also expressed surprise.

— "I heard about the security improvements here, but I really didn't expect it to be so different. We came for the beaches and Carnival, but we're even thinking about extending our trip and exploring other parts of Brazil."

In the hotel sector, the increase in tourism was boosting the economy. Ana, the manager of one of São Paulo's five-star hotels, reported that the occupancy rate was almost at its limit.

— "We're at 95% occupancy this month. We've never had as many international guests as we do now. People want to explore Brazil in ways they were afraid to before. Guests are loving the cultural options, the restaurants, the museums, and of course, the security."

At the same time, Gustavo's government, aware of the positive impact of tourism, continued to invest in infrastructure to keep the country prepared for this new influx of visitors. New air routes were being created, and airports in both capitals and popular tourist destinations were being modernized.

In the capital Brasília, Gustavo met with the Minister of Tourism, Camila Albuquerque, to discuss ongoing initiatives and new projects that could help the country continue to grow in the sector.

— "President, the numbers are impressive. We are breaking visitor records and receiving many compliments for the country's safety and hospitality. We need to keep up this pace," said Camila enthusiastically.

— "That's what we want, Camila. Brazil is a wonderful country, with a cultural and natural wealth that few countries can compete with. Our role is to ensure that those who come here feel safe and welcome. The success of tourism depends on our ability to continue to guarantee this tranquility."

Paola, always by Gustavo's side in important decisions, added:

— "In addition, we have a golden opportunity to show the world that Brazil is much more than carnival and soccer. We have a diversity of experiences that can attract people all year round. The Pantanal, the Amazon, the South with its wineries... Brazil can be a destination for all tastes."

Camila smiled, pleased with the support she was receiving from the presidency.

— "Absolutely, Paola. And we are ready to promote the country at international fairs, expand our publicity and show that the Brazil of 2025 is very different from what people imagined years ago."

The impact of public safety was also being felt in local tourism. Brazilians who were previously afraid to travel to certain regions of their own country were now exploring their lands more. André and Cláudia, a couple from São Paulo, decided to spend their February vacation in the Northeast, in Fernando de Noronha.

— "We always wanted to visit Noronha, but before we were a little unsafe with the violence in some big cities. Now everything seems calmer. We were able to enjoy every day of the trip without that constant worry," said Cláudia as she enjoyed the view of one of the archipelago's most famous beaches.

Meanwhile, the national and international media continued to highlight the government's success in security operations and the impact this had on tourism. Folha de S.Paulo published a series of reports on the "Renaissance of Tourism in Brazil", praising security policies and tourism infrastructure. One of the articles, entitled "From Fear to Protagonism: The Brazil the World Wants to Know", featured testimonials from tourists and economic experts.

In the international media, newspapers such as The New York Times and The Guardian also reported on the positive changes in Brazil. The New York Times ran a cover story on the "New Brazil", highlighting not only the success in combating crime, but also the increase in the number of tourists visiting the historic cities of Salvador, Recife and Ouro Preto.

At the end of February, Gustavo held a press conference to comment on the record tourism numbers and the continued improvement in public safety in Brazil.

— "We are seeing a safer, more prosperous Brazil, more open to the world. The operations we have carried out over the past year were not only to protect our citizens, but to build a country where everyone, Brazilians and foreigners alike, can enjoy everything we have to offer. This is the Brazil we are rebuilding, and it will be a world power in every sense."

The response from the press was immediate, with praise for the achievements of Gustavo's administration and for Brazil's transformation into a tourism and economic powerhouse.

As the end of the month approached, the streets of tourist cities, from the metropolises to the most exotic destinations, were full of life. Brazil, now safe and welcoming, had once again become the dream destination for tourists from all over the world. The future seemed brighter than ever, and the nation was preparing to continue growing, with public safety as a solid foundation for success in many areas.

Confidence in the country was restored, and Brazil, in full development, was making great strides, with a scenario of peace and prosperity that had not been seen for decades.

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