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A US administration official on Wednesday (February 11) said that Mexican drug cartel drones breached US airspace and were disabled. This comes after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) halted flight operations at El Paso airport for 10 days, citing security-related concerns, which were later lifted.&nbsp;&nbsp;"There was no immediate threat to the El Paso community after federal aviation authorities suddenly closed airspace over the major US city, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar said. "From what my office and I have been able to gather overnight and early this morning, there is no immediate threat to the community or surrounding areas," wrote Escobar, who represents the Texas city on the US-Mexico border, on X (formerly known as Twitter).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-national-defense-airspace-as-flights-suspended-at-el-paso-airport-for-10-days-1770813177312">What is National Defense Airspace as flights suspended at El Paso airport for 10 days</a>&nbsp;United States Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, in a post on X, said, “The FAA and DOW acted swiftly to address a cartel drone incursion. The threat has been neutralized, and there is no danger to commercial travel in the region. The restrictions have been lifted, and normal flights are resuming.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-shoppers-snub-nationalism-for-foreign-brands-1770817851540/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-shoppers-snub-nationalism-for-foreign-brands-1770817851540/embed</a>&nbsp;Earlier, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had mandated a temporary suspension of all arrivals and departures at El Paso International Airport in Texas for 10 days due to security concerns. The shutdown started at 1:30 am ET on February 11 and was scheduled to remain in place until 1:30 am ET on February 21, according to an official Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued. Pilots are barred from flying within the designated airspace under the directive. The FAA labeled the zone as “NTL Defense Airspace,” explaining that the restriction was put in place for “special security reasons.” In a statement posted on Instagram, El Paso International Airport confirmed the temporary shutdown, stressing that the order affects commercial, cargo, and private flights. Passengers were advised to contact their airlines for the most up-to-date information on flight schedules.

US says Mexican drug cartel drones breached airspace, triggered temporary closure at El Paso airport

A US administration official on Wednesday (February 11) said that Mexican drug cartel drones breached US airspace and were disabled. This comes after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) halted flight operations at El Paso airport for 10 days, citing security-related concerns, which were later lifted. "There was no immediate threat to the El Paso community after federal aviation authorities suddenly closed airspace over the major US city, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar said. "From what my office and I have been able to gather overnight and early this morning, there is no immediate threat to the community or surrounding areas," wrote Escobar, who represents the Texas city on the US-Mexico border, on X (formerly known as Twitter). Also Read: What is National Defense Airspace as flights suspended at El Paso airport for 10 days United States Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, in a post on X, said, “The FAA and DOW acted swiftly to address a cartel drone incursion. The threat has been neutralized, and there is no danger to commercial travel in the region. The restrictions have been lifted, and normal flights are resuming.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-shoppers-snub-nationalism-for-foreign-brands-1770817851540/embed Earlier, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had mandated a temporary suspension of all arrivals and departures at El Paso International Airport in Texas for 10 days due to security concerns. The shutdown started at 1:30 am ET on February 11 and was scheduled to remain in place until 1:30 am ET on February 21, according to an official Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued. Pilots are barred from flying within the designated airspace under the directive. The FAA labeled the zone as “NTL Defense Airspace,” explaining that the restriction was put in place for “special security reasons.” In a statement posted on Instagram, El Paso International Airport confirmed the temporary shutdown, stressing that the order affects commercial, cargo, and private flights. Passengers were advised to contact their airlines for the most up-to-date information on flight schedules.

Earlier, the Federal Aviation Administration halted all flights at the El Paso airport for 10 days, citing security-related concerns, which were later lifted by the US aviation regulator&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump, who ordered an additional 9 per cent tariff on Switzerland, said that he did so because he did not like the way a female Swiss official talked to him. During an interview with Fox Business, the American president said he found the tone of Karin Keller-Sutter, a member of the Swiss Federal Council, very "aggressive". He mistakenly called the official the prime minister.&nbsp;“I put on a 30 per cent tariff, which is very low. Then I got an emergency call from, I believe, the Prime Minister of Switzerland, and she was very aggressive but nice but very aggressive. She said, ‘Sir, we are a small country. We can't do this. We can't do this.’ I couldn't get her off the phone,” he said.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Trump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Trump</a>: &quot;So I put on a 30% <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tariff?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tariff</a>, which is very low. I got an emergency call from I believe the prime minister of Switzerland. She was very aggressive ... I didn&#39;t really like the way she talked to us, so instead of giving her a reduction, I raised it to 39%.&quot; (Trump-&gt; I didn’t… <a href="https://t.co/FwbWclIKxd">pic.twitter.com/FwbWclIKxd</a>&mdash; Boris Alexander Beissner (@boris_beissner) <a href="https://twitter.com/boris_beissner/status/2021342315667652674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/our-missiles-are-not-subject-of-negotiation-will-not-be-iran-dismisses-trump-s-desire-to-include-tehran-ballistic-missiles-in-nuclear-weapon-talks-1770814257366">‘Our missiles are not subject of negotiation, will not be’: Iran dismisses Trump’s desire to include Tehran ballistic missiles in nuke talks</a>&nbsp;“‘No, no, we are a small country’. Again and again and again. I couldn't get her off the phone, so it was 30 per cent. And I didn't really like the way she talked to us and so instead of giving her a reduction, I raised it to 39 per cent,” POTUS added.&nbsp;He claimed Switzerland was paying no tariffs while exporting goods to America, “like nobody could believe”. The US President made a similar remark a few weeks back in Davos, where he appeared to have no clue if Switzerland had a prime minister or president.&nbsp;“I guess the Prime Minister, I don’t know, the President, the Prime Minister called, a woman. And she was very repetitive. She said, ‘No, no, no, you can’t do that, 30 per cent. We are a small, small country.’ But I said, ‘You may be small, but you have a big deficit,’” Trump had said.&nbsp;

Donald Trump said he raised Switzerland tariffs to 39 per cent after criticising Swiss official Karin Keller-Sutter’s “aggressive” tone in a phone call, mistakenly calling her prime minister during Fox Business interview.

US President Donald Trump, who ordered an additional 9 per cent tariff on Switzerland, said that he did so because he did not like the way a female Swiss official talked to him. During an interview with Fox Business, the American president said he found the tone of Karin Keller-Sutter, a member of the Swiss Federal Council, very "aggressive". He mistakenly called the official the prime minister. “I put on a 30 per cent tariff, which is very low. Then I got an emergency call from, I believe, the Prime Minister of Switzerland, and she was very aggressive but nice but very aggressive. She said, ‘Sir, we are a small country. We can't do this. We can't do this.’ I couldn't get her off the phone,” he said.

Donald Trump said he raised Switzerland tariffs to 39 per cent after criticising Swiss official Karin Keller-Sutter’s “aggressive” tone in a phone call, mistakenly calling her prime minister during Fox Business interview.

Trump says he hiked Switzerland tariffs because a female official talked ‘aggressively’ to him and he ‘couldn't get her off the phone’

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, speaking in the parliament, expressed disappointment over the lack of honour given to the fallen soldiers. In a poignant address, Asif remarked, “We don’t even attend their funerals.” The country has a history of deflecting, be it internal conflicts in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa or even with neighbouring India.<h2>Anonymous status to Pakistan soldiers killed in action</h2>&nbsp;During the 1999 Kargil war, Islamabad refused to accept that their soilders were killed in action, they remained firm on their stance that those involved in the conflict were Kashmiri “freedom fighters”. Over a decade later, names of 453 personnel were acknowledged and officially listed on the army website.&nbsp; In November 2010, in a silent move, the Pakistan Army updated the "Shuhada" (martyrs) section of its website. This addition included names of troops from the Kargil war from the Northern Light Infantry (NLI).<h3>WATCH VIDEO HERE</h3>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Lol, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif admits <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> does not properly honour soldiers killed in action and that politicians often don’t even attend their funerals. A major embarrassment for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanArmy</a> , long accused of hiding casualties in PoK, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Balochistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Balochistan</a> , and KPK. <a href="https://t.co/9H02LmEqmP">pic.twitter.com/9H02LmEqmP</a>&mdash; Shanaaz Baloch (@ShanaazBaloch) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShanaazBaloch/status/2021529855301677073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-iaf-fighter-jets-supported-indian-army-during-kargil-war-1753522815830">How IAF fighter jets supported Indian Army during Kargil War</a><h2>Selective attendance at funerals</h2>While the defence minister admitted that state officials often skip funerals of their soldiers, a contrasting scene had unfolded in May 2025. Following the launch of Operation Sindoor, in which India targeted terror hubs and eliminated over 100 terrorists, Pakistan claimed civilians were killed. What sketched an obscure picture was a visual from a funeral at Lashkar-e-Taiba's (LeT) headquarters in Pakistan's Muridke, alongside Abdul Rauf, a proscribed terrorist, were Pakistan army personnel.&nbsp;&nbsp;The coffins at the funeral were seen wrapped in Pakistan's national flag, which indicated the deceased were being accorded state honours. As Islamabad claimed, Indian strikes killed civilians. In a briefing, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held a photo and said, "It's also odd that funerals of civilians are being carried out with coffins wrapped in their national flag, and state honours are being accorded. The individuals eliminated at these facilities were terrorists."

While addressing the parliament, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif expressed disappointment over the lack of honour given to fallen soldiers. He even highlighted how state officials do not attend their funerals.

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, speaking in the parliament, expressed disappointment over the lack of honour given to the fallen soldiers. In a poignant address, Asif remarked, “We don’t even attend their funerals.” The country has a history of deflecting, be it internal conflicts in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa or even with neighbouring India. Anonymous status to Pakistan soldiers killed in action During the 1999 Kargil war, Islamabad refused to accept that their soilders were killed in action, they remained firm on their stance that those involved in the conflict were Kashmiri “freedom fighters”. Over a decade later, names of 453 personnel were acknowledged and officially listed on the army website. In November 2010, in a silent move, the Pakistan Army updated the "Shuhada" (martyrs) section of its website. This addition included names of troops from the Kargil war from the Northern Light Infantry (NLI). WATCH VIDEO HERE

While addressing the parliament, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif expressed disappointment over the lack of honour given to fallen soldiers. He even highlighted how state officials do not attend their funerals.

'We don't attend their funeral': Pak Defence Minister Khawaja Asif slams country's apathy towards fallen soldiers

US Representative Ro Khanna has publicly identified six men whose names were previously blacked out in documents connected to Jeffrey Epstein. Among those named is billionaire businessman Leslie Wexner, whom an FBI document reportedly described as a co-conspirator of the late convicted sex offender. Khanna, a Democrat from California, reviewed unredacted records at the Department of Justice alongside Republican Congressman Thomas Massie of Kentucky. After spending roughly two hours examining the files, Khanna revealed the names during remarks on the House floor. Massie later posted images online indicating that a 2019 Justice Department record had removed redactions from Wexner’s name and photograph in a document referencing Epstein.<h2>Who is Leslie Wexner?</h2>Leslie “Les” Wexner, 88, is a prominent American retail executive and founder of L Brands, the company behind well-known chains such as Victoria’s Secret, Abercrombie &amp; Fitch, and Bath &amp; Body Works. He led the business for more than five decades, transforming it into one of the country’s largest specialty retail groups.&nbsp;Born on September 9, 1937, in Dayton, Ohio, Wexner is the son of Henry Wexner, a Russian immigrant. He built his fortune from modest beginnings and is widely regarded as Ohio’s wealthiest individual. Forbes estimates his net worth at approximately $9 billion.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-i-met-him-only-on-a-few-occasions-hardeep-singh-puri-admits-meeting-jeffrey-epstein-1770810599999">'I met him only on a few occasions': Hardeep Singh Puri admits meeting Jeffrey Epstein</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Those screeching “name names on the floor of the House now” have lost the plot. We passed a bill and it’s the DOJ’s job to show the files. Yesterday, Ro &amp; I pressured DOJ to unredact several people who the FBI labeled as coconspirators in 2019. Here’s before-and-after yesterday. <a href="https://t.co/b1EIo63zES">pic.twitter.com/b1EIo63zES</a>&mdash; Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepThomasMassie/status/2021232930618519714?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Wexner’s entrepreneurial journey started in 1963 with a $5,000 loan from his aunt, which he used to launch a clothing store called The Limited. The concept focused on fast-selling women’s apparel, and its early success led to rapid expansion. The company went public in 1969 under the ticker symbol LTD on the New York Stock Exchange. Throughout the 1970s, Wexner grew the brand aggressively.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-shoppers-snub-nationalism-for-foreign-brands-1770817851540/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-shoppers-snub-nationalism-for-foreign-brands-1770817851540/embed</a>&nbsp;In 1982, he acquired Victoria’s Secret for $1 million, at a time when the lingerie retailer was struggling. Under his leadership, it evolved into a globally recognized brand. Wexner maintained a professional relationship with Jeffrey Epstein for roughly two decades, from 1987 to 2007, during which Epstein managed his financial affairs. In 2019, Wexner stated that Epstein had misappropriated funds from him.

Epstein Files: Who is Leslie Wexner, billionaire founder of Victoria's Secret named in unredacted DOJ documents?

US Representative Ro Khanna has publicly identified six men whose names were previously blacked out in documents connected to Jeffrey Epstein. Among those named is billionaire businessman Leslie Wexner, whom an FBI document reportedly described as a co-conspirator of the late convicted sex offender. Khanna, a Democrat from California, reviewed unredacted records at the Department of Justice alongside Republican Congressman Thomas Massie of Kentucky. After spending roughly two hours examining the files, Khanna revealed the names during remarks on the House floor. Massie later posted images online indicating that a 2019 Justice Department record had removed redactions from Wexner’s name and photograph in a document referencing Epstein. Who is Leslie Wexner? Leslie “Les” Wexner, 88, is a prominent American retail executive and founder of L Brands, the company behind well-known chains such as Victoria’s Secret, Abercrombie & Fitch, and Bath & Body Works. He led the business for more than five decades, transforming it into one of the country’s largest specialty retail groups. Born on September 9, 1937, in Dayton, Ohio, Wexner is the son of Henry Wexner, a Russian immigrant. He built his fortune from modest beginnings and is widely regarded as Ohio’s wealthiest individual. Forbes estimates his net worth at approximately $9 billion. Also Read: 'I met him only on a few occasions': Hardeep Singh Puri admits meeting Jeffrey Epstein

Democrat Ro Khanna revealed six previously redacted names in Jeffrey Epstein files, including retail billionaire Leslie Wexner, founder of L Brands

The parliamentary polls in Bangladesh scheduled on Thursday, February 12, will have a huge implication for the safety and rights of the country’s Hindu minority that comprises about 8% of the total population in the Muslim majority nation. The government, which is formed after election results, will shape the political environment in the country that witnessed targeted violence against the minority Hindus over the last few months even as the interim government remained in a mode of denial.&nbsp;<h2>Hindus target of surge in violence and intimidation</h2>&nbsp;Hindu communities have reported a surge in violence, intimidation, and fear of attacks. A Hindu trader was killed just days before polling, further igniting anxieties about the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh.Civil society groups representing Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians say minorities are living in fear, with violent acts, including killings, attacks on property, and threats to business owners, across the country likely to discourage them from voting freely.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/day-before-bangladesh-polls-jamaat-leader-arrested-at-saidpur-airport-with-tk50-lakh-in-cash-1770813630948">Day before Bangladesh polls, Jamaat leader arrested at Saidpur Airport with Tk50 lakh in cash</a><h2>Analysts fear Islamist political forces could become influential</h2>&nbsp;The political realignment after the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2024 has resulted in major parties forming new alliances, and some election analysts fear that Islamist political forces could become influential after the polls.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bangladesh’s elections are being watched internationally, and concerns have been raised abroad about the persecution of Hindus and other minorities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-used-pakistan-like-toilet-paper-says-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-1770808649575">‘US used Pakistan like toilet paper,’ says Defence Minister Khawaja Asif</a><h2>Consolidation of hardline elements could further alienate minorities</h2>&nbsp;Some activists argue that the consolidation of hardline elements after the election could deepen alienation among minorities, erode trust in democratic institutions, and even encourage emigration.&nbsp;All eyes will be on polling and whether the Hindus and other minorities feel safe enough to go out and cast their votes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-offer-bangladesh-defence-systems-to-counter-chinese-influence-ambassador-in-dhaka-1770804612423">‘US to offer Bangladesh defence systems to counter Chinese influence’: Washington's envoy in Dhaka</a>&nbsp;The election outcome could either embolden hardline forces with adverse effects on minorities or strengthen protections for the minorities.The election is a litmus test for secular democracy and inclusiveness and will carve the future of Bangladesh, and hence it is much more than a routine political event.

The elections in Bangladesh are being watched internationally, and concerns have been raised abroad about the persecution of Hindus and other minorities in the country. Killings, attacks on property, and threats are likely to discourage the minorities from voting freely.

The parliamentary polls in Bangladesh scheduled on Thursday, February 12, will have a huge implication for the safety and rights of the country’s Hindu minority that comprises about 8% of the total population in the Muslim majority nation. The government, which is formed after election results, will shape the political environment in the country that witnessed targeted violence against the minority Hindus over the last few months even as the interim government remained in a mode of denial. Hindus target of surge in violence and intimidation Hindu communities have reported a surge in violence, intimidation, and fear of attacks. A Hindu trader was killed just days before polling, further igniting anxieties about the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh. Civil society groups representing Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians say minorities are living in fear, with violent acts, including killings, attacks on property, and threats to business owners, across the country likely to discourage them from voting freely. Also Read: Day before Bangladesh polls, Jamaat leader arrested at Saidpur Airport with Tk50 lakh in cash Analysts fear Islamist political forces could become influential The political realignment after the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2024 has resulted in major parties forming new alliances, and some election analysts fear that Islamist political forces could become influential after the polls. Bangladesh’s elections are being watched internationally, and concerns have been raised abroad about the persecution of Hindus and other minorities. Also Read: ‘US used Pakistan like toilet paper,’ says Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Consolidation of hardline elements could further alienate minorities Some activists argue that the consolidation of hardline elements after the election could deepen alienation among minorities, erode trust in democratic institutions, and even encourage emigration. All eyes will be on polling and whether the Hindus and other minorities feel safe enough to go out and cast their votes. Also Read: ‘US to offer Bangladesh defence systems to counter Chinese influence’: Washington's envoy in Dhaka The election outcome could either embolden hardline forces with adverse effects on minorities or strengthen protections for the minorities. The election is a litmus test for secular democracy and inclusiveness and will carve the future of Bangladesh, and hence it is much more than a routine political event.

The elections in Bangladesh are being watched internationally, and concerns have been raised abroad about the persecution of Hindus and other minorities in the country. Killings, attacks on property, and threats are likely to discourage the minorities from voting freely.

Bangladesh General Election 2026: Why Bangladesh polls matter for Hindu minority’s safety

The general election of Bangladesh is scheduled to take place on Thursday (February 12, 2026), with around 12.77 crore eligible voters voting for the 13th national parliamentary election and a national referendum on constitutional reforms. Final preparations for the smooth conduct of the elections are underway nationwide as officials and security agencies have set the stage for peaceful voting, with results anticipated on February 13.<h3>What are key dates and schedule of Bangladesh election 2026?</h3>Polling will take place nationwide from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm without interruption across the country at more than 42,000 polling stations. Voters will elect their local members of parliament using transparent ballot boxes and will also participate in a referendum aimed at deciding the future course of national reforms.<h3>What are the total registered Voters?</h3>According to the latest electoral rolls, Bangladesh has 12.77 crore registered voters. Of these, around 6.48 crore are men, nearly 6.28 crore are women, and about 1,220 voters are registered under the third-gender category. The figures highlight ongoing efforts to ensure an inclusive and representative electoral process.&nbsp;Vote counting will begin immediately after polling ends at 4:30 pm, with results for both the parliamentary elections and the referendum expected to be declared on February 13. The results will shape the formation of the next government and determine the fate of the proposed constitutional reforms.&nbsp;Bangladesh consist of a “unicameral” legislature, the only legislative chamber which makes laws, the Jatiyo Shangsad or the House of the Nation, with 350 constituencies. Each constituency contains a single-member seat.&nbsp;Bangladesh follows a first-past-the-post electoral system, where voters select a single candidate from those contesting, and the candidate who secures the highest number of votes wins the seat. As a result, a party can secure a disproportionate number of seats even with narrow victories, leading to a mismatch between its total vote share and the number of seats it holds.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-locked-and-loaded-after-uss-abraham-lincoln-us-mobilises-missile-launchers-in-qatar-1770747308527/1770747308528"> 'Locked and loaded': After USS Abraham Lincoln, US mobilises missile launchers in Qatar</a>

Vote counting of the Bangladesh general election 2026 will begin immediately after polling ends at 4:30 pm, with results for both the parliamentary elections and the referendum expected to be declared on February 13. 

The general election of Bangladesh is scheduled to take place on Thursday (February 12, 2026), with around 12.77 crore eligible voters voting for the 13th national parliamentary election and a national referendum on constitutional reforms. Final preparations for the smooth conduct of the elections are underway nationwide as officials and security agencies have set the stage for peaceful voting, with results anticipated on February 13. What are key dates and schedule of Bangladesh election 2026? Polling will take place nationwide from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm without interruption across the country at more than 42,000 polling stations. Voters will elect their local members of parliament using transparent ballot boxes and will also participate in a referendum aimed at deciding the future course of national reforms. What are the total registered Voters? According to the latest electoral rolls, Bangladesh has 12.77 crore registered voters. Of these, around 6.48 crore are men, nearly 6.28 crore are women, and about 1,220 voters are registered under the third-gender category. The figures highlight ongoing efforts to ensure an inclusive and representative electoral process. Vote counting will begin immediately after polling ends at 4:30 pm, with results for both the parliamentary elections and the referendum expected to be declared on February 13. The results will shape the formation of the next government and determine the fate of the proposed constitutional reforms. Bangladesh consist of a “unicameral” legislature, the only legislative chamber which makes laws, the Jatiyo Shangsad or the House of the Nation, with 350 constituencies. Each constituency contains a single-member seat. Bangladesh follows a first-past-the-post electoral system, where voters select a single candidate from those contesting, and the candidate who secures the highest number of votes wins the seat. As a result, a party can secure a disproportionate number of seats even with narrow victories, leading to a mismatch between its total vote share and the number of seats it holds. Also read: 'Locked and loaded': After USS Abraham Lincoln, US mobilises missile launchers in Qatar

Vote counting of the Bangladesh general election 2026 will begin immediately after polling ends at 4:30 pm, with results for both the parliamentary elections and the referendum expected to be declared on February 13.&nbsp;

Bangladesh Election 2026: Key dates, voting timings, registered voters & results - All you need to know

Airspace above El Paso, Texas, has been shut down for 10 days after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposed an emergency restriction citing unspecified “special security reasons.” The order has brought all activity at El Paso International Airport to a halt, grounding commercial airlines, cargo carriers, and private aircraft alike. The flight restriction also extends into a broad section of southern New Mexico, including areas west of Santa Teresa. According to the FAA, the temporary flight restriction (TFR) started at 11:30 pm MST on February 10 and will remain in place until 11:30 pm MST on February 20.<h2>What should the passengers do to check their flights at El Paso airport?</h2>In a statement given to KFOX14, El Paso International Airport confirmed that the FAA enacted the TFR with little advance notice, suspending all arriving and departing flights in both El Paso and neighboring Santa Teresa, New Mexico. Airport officials said they have contacted the Federal Aviation Administration for further clarification and are awaiting more details. Meanwhile, airlines serving the airport have been notified, and passengers are advised to check directly with their carriers for updates on flight schedules. Airport representatives suggested the restriction appears to be tied to security concerns.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/faa-suspends-all-flights-at-el-paso-airport-for-10-days-here-s-why-1770809796593">FAA suspends all flights at El Paso airport for 10 days. Here's why</a><h2>What is National Defense Airspace?</h2>The FAA has labeled the affected region as ‘national defense airspace’, a designation reserved for locations considered sensitive to US national security. In such areas, flight activity can be limited, tightly managed, or completely banned to safeguard strategic sites, personnel, or territorial integrity.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rohini-32-year-old-labourer-dies-in-open-drain-1770807985078/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/rohini-32-year-old-labourer-dies-in-open-drain-1770807985078/embed</a>&nbsp;An FAA notice referenced by El Paso Matters explains that pilots entering this designated airspace must strictly comply with established procedures. Failure to do so could result in interception, detention, and questioning by law enforcement or security authorities. The notice further warns that the US government retains the authority to use lethal force against an aircraft if it is judged to pose an immediate security threat.

What is National Defense Airspace as flights suspended at El Paso airport for 10 days

Airspace above El Paso, Texas, has been shut down for 10 days after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposed an emergency restriction citing unspecified “special security reasons.” The order has brought all activity at El Paso International Airport to a halt, grounding commercial airlines, cargo carriers, and private aircraft alike. The flight restriction also extends into a broad section of southern New Mexico, including areas west of Santa Teresa. According to the FAA, the temporary flight restriction (TFR) started at 11:30 pm MST on February 10 and will remain in place until 11:30 pm MST on February 20. What should the passengers do to check their flights at El Paso airport? In a statement given to KFOX14, El Paso International Airport confirmed that the FAA enacted the TFR with little advance notice, suspending all arriving and departing flights in both El Paso and neighboring Santa Teresa, New Mexico. Airport officials said they have contacted the Federal Aviation Administration for further clarification and are awaiting more details. Meanwhile, airlines serving the airport have been notified, and passengers are advised to check directly with their carriers for updates on flight schedules. Airport representatives suggested the restriction appears to be tied to security concerns. Also Read: FAA suspends all flights at El Paso airport for 10 days. Here's why What is National Defense Airspace? The FAA has labeled the affected region as ‘national defense airspace’, a designation reserved for locations considered sensitive to US national security. In such areas, flight activity can be limited, tightly managed, or completely banned to safeguard strategic sites, personnel, or territorial integrity. https://www.wionews.com/videos/rohini-32-year-old-labourer-dies-in-open-drain-1770807985078/embed An FAA notice referenced by El Paso Matters explains that pilots entering this designated airspace must strictly comply with established procedures. Failure to do so could result in interception, detention, and questioning by law enforcement or security authorities. The notice further warns that the US government retains the authority to use lethal force against an aircraft if it is judged to pose an immediate security threat.

The Federal Aviation Administration has grounded all flights in El Paso for the next 10 days, designating the area as national defense airspace over security concerns

Iran rejected US demands to include ballistic missiles in nuclear talks, with officials saying missile capability is non-negotiable. Donald Trump insists any deal should address missiles, warning Tehran wants agreement badly.

‘Our missiles are not subject of negotiation, will not be’: Iran dismisses Trump’s desire to include Tehran ballistic missiles in nuke talks

A day ahead of the national elections in Bangladesh, police arrested Belal Uddin, Ameer of Thakurgaon district Jamaat-e-Islami, at Saidpur Airport in Nilphamari on Wednesday after he arrived from Dhaka by air, and Tk50 lakh in cash was recovered from his possession. Officials said the arrest was made during a special operation conducted on the basis of confidential information.&nbsp;Belal Uddin arrived on a Novoair flight, and law enforcers recovered the large sum of money after searching his bag.Officer-in-Charge of Saidpur Police Station Abdus Sattar confirmed the arrest and said a case is being processed in connection with the cash recovery.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-used-pakistan-like-toilet-paper-says-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-1770808649575">‘US used Pakistan like toilet paper,’ says Defence Minister Khawaja Asif</a>&nbsp;After his arrest, Belal Uddin fell ill and was admitted to a hospital. He was taken to Saidpur 100-bed Hospital in Nilphamari district by an ambulance at 1:47pm after he complained of illness.Nazmul Huda, Resident Medical Officer of the hospital, said, “No sign of a heart attack was found in the Jamaat leader after conducting medical tests. An ECG was performed, but no indication of a heart attack was detected. He has been referred to Rangpur Medical College Hospital for further evaluation.”Additional law enforcers were deployed in and around the hospital to avoid any untoward incident.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-offer-bangladesh-defence-systems-to-counter-chinese-influence-ambassador-in-dhaka-1770804612423">‘US to offer Bangladesh defence systems to counter Chinese influence’: Washington's envoy in Dhaka</a><h2>CEC to address nation on election eve&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin will address the nation on Wednesday evening ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and Referendum scheduled for Thursday.The Election Commission (EC) said the speech was recorded on Tuesday evening and will be broadcast simultaneously on Bangladesh Television (BTV), Bangladesh Betar and all private television and radio channels across the country.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hindu-businessman-candidacy-draws-attention-ahead-of-bangladesh-elections-who-is-krishna-nandi-1770797746642">Hindu businessman candidacy draws attention ahead of Bangladesh elections. Who is Krishna Nandi?</a>&nbsp;Earlier, on December 11 last year, the CEC addressed the nation while announcing the election schedule. Wednesday’s speech will be his second address regarding the upcoming polls.The CEC will brief the nation on the preparations for the election and urge voters to go to polling stations without fear to exercise their franchise.&nbsp;

Jamaat-e-Islami leader Belal Uddin complained of illness after his arrest at Saidpur Airport in Nilphamari and was taken to Saidpur 100-bed Hospital in Nilphamari district by an ambulance at 1:47 pm. 

A day ahead of the national elections in Bangladesh, police arrested Belal Uddin, Ameer of Thakurgaon district Jamaat-e-Islami, at Saidpur Airport in Nilphamari on Wednesday after he arrived from Dhaka by air, and Tk50 lakh in cash was recovered from his possession. Officials said the arrest was made during a special operation conducted on the basis of confidential information. Belal Uddin arrived on a Novoair flight, and law enforcers recovered the large sum of money after searching his bag. Officer-in-Charge of Saidpur Police Station Abdus Sattar confirmed the arrest and said a case is being processed in connection with the cash recovery. Also Read: ‘US used Pakistan like toilet paper,’ says Defence Minister Khawaja Asif After his arrest, Belal Uddin fell ill and was admitted to a hospital. He was taken to Saidpur 100-bed Hospital in Nilphamari district by an ambulance at 1:47pm after he complained of illness. Nazmul Huda, Resident Medical Officer of the hospital, said, “No sign of a heart attack was found in the Jamaat leader after conducting medical tests. An ECG was performed, but no indication of a heart attack was detected. He has been referred to Rangpur Medical College Hospital for further evaluation.” Additional law enforcers were deployed in and around the hospital to avoid any untoward incident. Also Read: ‘US to offer Bangladesh defence systems to counter Chinese influence’: Washington's envoy in Dhaka CEC to address nation on election eve Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin will address the nation on Wednesday evening ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and Referendum scheduled for Thursday. The Election Commission (EC) said the speech was recorded on Tuesday evening and will be broadcast simultaneously on Bangladesh Television (BTV), Bangladesh Betar and all private television and radio channels across the country. Also read | Hindu businessman candidacy draws attention ahead of Bangladesh elections. Who is Krishna Nandi? Earlier, on December 11 last year, the CEC addressed the nation while announcing the election schedule. Wednesday’s speech will be his second address regarding the upcoming polls. The CEC will brief the nation on the preparations for the election and urge voters to go to polling stations without fear to exercise their franchise.

Jamaat-e-Islami leader Belal Uddin complained of illness after his arrest at Saidpur Airport in Nilphamari and was taken to Saidpur 100-bed Hospital in Nilphamari district by an ambulance at 1:47 pm.&nbsp;

Day before Bangladesh polls, Jamaat leader arrested at Saidpur Airport with Tk50 lakh in cash

Nine people were killed and 27 injured in two connected shootings at a British Columbia school and nearby home. Police identified a female suspect, while Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed national grief.

Canada shootings: 9 killed, 2 crime spots, and a ‘woman’ suspect - here's everything we know

A gunman launched an open firing at a southern Thailand school and injured at least three people. The Thai police said the gunman was shot and arrested. "Police shot the suspect in the Hat Yai shooting," Thailand's Central Investigation Bureau said in a statement, after earlier saying he had been shot. Police said the 18-year-old alleged shooter fired multiple shots at the students.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-new-improved-nuclear-treaty-with-russia-says-us-to-introduce-battleships-100x-better-than-those-during-ww-2-1770322884405">Trump wants ‘new, improved’ nuclear treaty with Russia; says US to introduce battleships '100X better than those during WW 2'</a>&nbsp;A woman and a teenage girl were hospitalised with gunshot wounds, and both underwent surgery, the Ministry of Public Health said in a statement. A second child suffered an ankle injury after they "fell from a height", it added. The Songkhla provincial government said in a statement that the suspect entered the Phatong Prathan Khiriwat School in "an agitated state while carrying a gun".&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-did-you-torture-her-emails-of-jeffrey-epstein-and-martin-nowak-reveal-shocking-details-all-about-6-5-million-to-harvard-and-private-travels-1770656438037">‘Did you torture her?’: Emails of Jeffrey Epstein and Martin Nowak reveal shocking details. All about ‘$6.5 million to Harvard’ and private travels</a>&nbsp;Several students and teachers were trapped in the school as police units surrounded the building. Authorities confirmed that the suspect surrendered after a two-hour standoff. The motive of the shooting remains unclear, although local media reports suggest the suspect may have had a grievance with a teacher at the school.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disgusting-behaviour-by-president-most-openly-racist-trump-shares-video-depicting-obamas-as-monkeys-sparks-outrage-1770392209346">‘Disgusting behaviour by President’: ‘Most openly racist’ Trump shares video depicting Obamas as monkeys, sparks outrage</a>&nbsp;In a similar incident in 2023, a 14-year-old boy killed two people and injured five others in a shooting at a luxury shopping mall in the centre of Bangkok.

A gunman launched an open firing at a southern Thailand school and injured at least three people. The Thai police said the gunman was shot dead.

A gunman launched an open firing at a southern Thailand school and injured at least three people. The Thai police said the gunman was shot and arrested. "Police shot the suspect in the Hat Yai shooting," Thailand's Central Investigation Bureau said in a statement, after earlier saying he had been shot. Police said the 18-year-old alleged shooter fired multiple shots at the students. Also read: Trump wants ‘new, improved’ nuclear treaty with Russia; says US to introduce battleships '100X better than those during WW 2' A woman and a teenage girl were hospitalised with gunshot wounds, and both underwent surgery, the Ministry of Public Health said in a statement. A second child suffered an ankle injury after they "fell from a height", it added. The Songkhla provincial government said in a statement that the suspect entered the Phatong Prathan Khiriwat School in "an agitated state while carrying a gun". Also read: ‘Did you torture her?’: Emails of Jeffrey Epstein and Martin Nowak reveal shocking details. All about ‘$6.5 million to Harvard’ and private travels Several students and teachers were trapped in the school as police units surrounded the building. Authorities confirmed that the suspect surrendered after a two-hour standoff. The motive of the shooting remains unclear, although local media reports suggest the suspect may have had a grievance with a teacher at the school. Also read: ‘Disgusting behaviour by President’: ‘Most openly racist’ Trump shares video depicting Obamas as monkeys, sparks outrage In a similar incident in 2023, a 14-year-old boy killed two people and injured five others in a shooting at a luxury shopping mall in the centre of Bangkok.

A gunman launched an open firing at a southern Thailand school and injured at least three people. The Thai police said the gunman was shot dead.

Thailand: Police arrests gunman, 18, after he injured 3 people at school

Colombian President Gustavo Petro said on Tuesday that he had narrowly escaped an assassination attempt earlier in the day, following months of warnings about a suspected plot by drug traffickers to kill him. Petro said on Monday night that the helicopter was compelled to abort its landing on Colombia’s Caribbean coast after intelligence indicated that unspecified people “were going to shoot” at it.&nbsp;“We headed out to open sea for four hours, and I arrived somewhere we weren’t supposed to go, escaping from being killed,” Petro said in a cabinet meeting that was broadcast live.<h3>Plot to kill Gustavo Petro</h3>The president’s remarks come amid a spike in violence ahead of the country’s presidential elections, in a nation long affected by armed conflict involving guerrilla groups and other militias. Petro, who is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election, has repeatedly alleged that a drug-trafficking network has been plotting against him since he took office in August 2022.&nbsp;He said the alleged conspiracy involves powerful narcotics traffickers and armed leaders, including Ivan Mordisco, who heads the largest faction of Farc dissidents that rejected the 2016 peace accord.&nbsp;Including presidential candidates, Colombia has a long list of leftist leaders who have been assassinated over the years. Petro, the first-ever leftist president of South American had reported another alleged attempt on his life in 2024.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-will-do-something-tough-iranians-chant-anti-khamenei-slogans-as-trump-keeps-attack-options-open-1770795315866">‘Will do something tough’: Trump keeps attack options open as Iranians chant anti-Khamenei slo</a>gans

Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election, has repeatedly alleged that a drug-trafficking network has been plotting against him since he took office in August 2022.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro said on Tuesday that he had narrowly escaped an assassination attempt earlier in the day, following months of warnings about a suspected plot by drug traffickers to kill him. Petro said on Monday night that the helicopter was compelled to abort its landing on Colombia’s Caribbean coast after intelligence indicated that unspecified people “were going to shoot” at it. “We headed out to open sea for four hours, and I arrived somewhere we weren’t supposed to go, escaping from being killed,” Petro said in a cabinet meeting that was broadcast live. Plot to kill Gustavo Petro The president’s remarks come amid a spike in violence ahead of the country’s presidential elections, in a nation long affected by armed conflict involving guerrilla groups and other militias. Petro, who is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election, has repeatedly alleged that a drug-trafficking network has been plotting against him since he took office in August 2022. He said the alleged conspiracy involves powerful narcotics traffickers and armed leaders, including Ivan Mordisco, who heads the largest faction of Farc dissidents that rejected the 2016 peace accord. Including presidential candidates, Colombia has a long list of leftist leaders who have been assassinated over the years. Petro, the first-ever leftist president of South American had reported another alleged attempt on his life in 2024. Also read: ‘Will do something tough’: Trump keeps attack options open as Iranians chant anti-Khamenei slogans

Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election, has repeatedly alleged that a drug-trafficking network has been plotting against him since he took office in August 2022.

'We escaped being killed': Colombian President Gustavo Petro claims over an assassination attempt

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Wednesday (February 11) dismissed allegations made by Rahul Gandhi that linked him to the controversial Epstein Files, saying that his meeting with Jeffrey Epstein took place in an official capacity as part of an International Peace Institute (IPI) delegation. Puri offered the clarification during a press conference following Rahul Gandhi’s sharp remarks in the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;&nbsp;He stressed that his interaction with Epstein was strictly professional and unrelated to the allegations surrounding the disgraced American financier. He explained that the meeting took place while he was serving on a commission associated with the IPI. "My boss at IPI Terje Rod-Larsen, knew Epstein, and I met him only on a few occasions, 3 or at max 4 times to be precise, as part of a delegation. Our interactions had nothing to do (with the crimes he is accused of)," Hardeep Puri was quoted as saying.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-food-safety-crisis-how-contaminated-and-ultra-processed-foods-threaten-public-health-1770805799519">India's food safety crisis: How contaminated and ultra-processed foods threaten public health</a>&nbsp;The minister said that all relevant details are already publicly available, noting that the US Department of Justice has released more than three million documents related to the case.&nbsp;"Three million emails have been released, covering the period from May 2009, when I joined as India’s Ambassador to the UN in New York, until I became a minister in 2017. During this period, there are references to only three or four meetings, and my interactions were entirely professional, related to the Independent Commission on Multilateralism and other international work,” Hardeep Puri was quoted as saying. "In eight years, there are just two references and one email exchange (with Epstein) because these people introduced me to him," he added.&nbsp;Referring to the Epstein files, he said Rahul Gandhi should understand that they concern allegations of serious criminal misconduct. He explained that the files relate to accusations that Epstein owned an island where individuals were allegedly taken to engage in illicit activities, including charges of paedophilia. He added that victims have filed cases against those in positions of authority and emphasised that his own interaction was unrelated to any of these matters.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-teacher-turned-predator-40-victims-identified-in-french-teacher-abuse-case-1770802577030/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-teacher-turned-predator-40-victims-identified-in-french-teacher-abuse-case-1770802577030/embed</a>&nbsp;Addressing an email exchange that also included Jeffrey Epstein, the minister said he had written to Reid Hoffman, the former LinkedIn CEO, expressing strong confidence in India’s potential for internet-driven economic growth. Quoting from the message, he highlighted that India, with 200 million users at the time, was the fastest-growing market for internet users globally.

'I met him only on a few occasions': Hardeep Singh Puri admits meeting Jeffrey Epstein

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Wednesday (February 11) dismissed allegations made by Rahul Gandhi that linked him to the controversial Epstein Files, saying that his meeting with Jeffrey Epstein took place in an official capacity as part of an International Peace Institute (IPI) delegation. Puri offered the clarification during a press conference following Rahul Gandhi’s sharp remarks in the Lok Sabha. He stressed that his interaction with Epstein was strictly professional and unrelated to the allegations surrounding the disgraced American financier. He explained that the meeting took place while he was serving on a commission associated with the IPI. "My boss at IPI Terje Rod-Larsen, knew Epstein, and I met him only on a few occasions, 3 or at max 4 times to be precise, as part of a delegation. Our interactions had nothing to do (with the crimes he is accused of)," Hardeep Puri was quoted as saying. Also Read: India's food safety crisis: How contaminated and ultra-processed foods threaten public health The minister said that all relevant details are already publicly available, noting that the US Department of Justice has released more than three million documents related to the case. "Three million emails have been released, covering the period from May 2009, when I joined as India’s Ambassador to the UN in New York, until I became a minister in 2017. During this period, there are references to only three or four meetings, and my interactions were entirely professional, related to the Independent Commission on Multilateralism and other international work,” Hardeep Puri was quoted as saying. "In eight years, there are just two references and one email exchange (with Epstein) because these people introduced me to him," he added. Referring to the Epstein files, he said Rahul Gandhi should understand that they concern allegations of serious criminal misconduct. He explained that the files relate to accusations that Epstein owned an island where individuals were allegedly taken to engage in illicit activities, including charges of paedophilia. He added that victims have filed cases against those in positions of authority and emphasised that his own interaction was unrelated to any of these matters. https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-teacher-turned-predator-40-victims-identified-in-french-teacher-abuse-case-1770802577030/embed Addressing an email exchange that also included Jeffrey Epstein, the minister said he had written to Reid Hoffman, the former LinkedIn CEO, expressing strong confidence in India’s potential for internet-driven economic growth. Quoting from the message, he highlighted that India, with 200 million users at the time, was the fastest-growing market for internet users globally.

Hardeep Singh Puri, during a press conference, admitted that he met Jeffrey Epstein only in an official IPI delegation role at a UN event in 2013

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered a temporary shutdown of all incoming and outgoing flights at El Paso International Airport in Texas for a period of 10 days, citing security-related concerns. The flight suspension started at 1:30 am ET on February 11 and will remain in effect until 1:30 am ET on February 21, according to an official Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued early on Wednesday (February 11). The restriction covers airspace over El Paso, Texas, and extends into parts of Santa Teresa, New Mexico.&nbsp;Under the directive, pilots are prohibited from operating aircraft within the designated airspace. The FAA classified the area as “NTL Defense Airspace” and stated that the restriction was implemented for “special security reasons.” El Paso International Airport confirmed the temporary closure in a statement shared on Instagram, noting that the order applies to commercial, cargo, and private aviation operations alike. Travelers have been urged to check directly with their airlines for the latest updates on flight status.<h2>Which airlines are impacted?</h2>Every carrier serving El Paso is affected by the order. Based on FlightConnections data, approximately 1,299 flights were scheduled to arrive at the airport in February, averaging about 46 flights per day.Major airlines operating routes to and from El Paso include:<ul><li>Delta Air Lines</li><li>American Airlines</li><li>Southwest Airlines</li><li>United Airlines</li></ul><h2>Warning of potential use of force</h2>In its NOTAM, the FAA cautioned that aircraft violating the restricted airspace could face interception and possible enforcement actions. The notice further warned that deadly force could be authorized if an aircraft is deemed to pose an immediate security threat. Pilots who fail to comply with the outlined procedures may be intercepted, detained, and questioned by law enforcement or security officials, the agency said.<h2>How did the markets react?</h2>Texas State Representative Vincent Perez expressed surprise at the decision, telling The New York Times he had not previously been informed of the airspace shutdown. He noted that he could not recall a 10-day closure of US airspace outside of a significant emergency. In financial markets, the US Global Jets ETF (JETS) slipped 0.08% in pre-market trading on Wednesday. The broader SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF (SPY) declined 0.02%. Despite the dip, retail investor sentiment surrounding JETS remained in bullish territory on Stocktwits at the time of reporting.

FAA suspends all flights at El Paso airport for 10 days. Here's why

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has ordered a temporary shutdown of all incoming and outgoing flights at El Paso International Airport in Texas for a period of 10 days, citing security-related concerns. The flight suspension started at 1:30 am ET on February 11 and will remain in effect until 1:30 am ET on February 21, according to an official Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued early on Wednesday (February 11). The restriction covers airspace over El Paso, Texas, and extends into parts of Santa Teresa, New Mexico. Under the directive, pilots are prohibited from operating aircraft within the designated airspace. The FAA classified the area as “NTL Defense Airspace” and stated that the restriction was implemented for “special security reasons.” El Paso International Airport confirmed the temporary closure in a statement shared on Instagram, noting that the order applies to commercial, cargo, and private aviation operations alike. Travelers have been urged to check directly with their airlines for the latest updates on flight status. Which airlines are impacted? Every carrier serving El Paso is affected by the order. Based on FlightConnections data, approximately 1,299 flights were scheduled to arrive at the airport in February, averaging about 46 flights per day. Major airlines operating routes to and from El Paso include: Delta Air Lines American Airlines Southwest Airlines United Airlines Warning of potential use of force In its NOTAM, the FAA cautioned that aircraft violating the restricted airspace could face interception and possible enforcement actions. The notice further warned that deadly force could be authorized if an aircraft is deemed to pose an immediate security threat. Pilots who fail to comply with the outlined procedures may be intercepted, detained, and questioned by law enforcement or security officials, the agency said. How did the markets react? Texas State Representative Vincent Perez expressed surprise at the decision, telling The New York Times he had not previously been informed of the airspace shutdown. He noted that he could not recall a 10-day closure of US airspace outside of a significant emergency. In financial markets, the US Global Jets ETF (JETS) slipped 0.08% in pre-market trading on Wednesday. The broader SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY) declined 0.02%. Despite the dip, retail investor sentiment surrounding JETS remained in bullish territory on Stocktwits at the time of reporting.

FAA has halted all flights at El Paso International Airport for 10 days, citing security concerns and warning of possible use of force

Bangladesh general election 2026: The country goes to the polls on February 12. There are some main agendas that all parties have focused on and promised to deliver. The July Charter is the central focus of a nationwide referendum.

Bangladesh general election 2026: July National Charter and other key agendas

Even as Pakistan’s leadership has been wooing the United States and President Donald Trump, the country’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has accused Washington of ‘exploiting’ the Southeast Asian nation for its strategic interests and then discarding it “like a piece of toilet paper” after its objectives were met. Asif made the stark admission while speaking in Pakistan’s National Assembly. He admitted that Pakistan often denies its terror history, calling it a “mistake committed by dictators in the past.”&nbsp;He also termed Islamabad’s involvement in two Afghan wars ‘a mistake’, saying terrorism in Pakistan today was the blowback of past mistakes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Khwaja Asif admits in Parliament that Pakistan rented itself out to the U.S. for war and was later discarded “like toilet paper”. Afghanistan was destroyed by policies now openly acknowledged in parliament. Millions suffered. Generations were lost. The world cannot look away now… <a href="https://t.co/aEQjrm16ME">pic.twitter.com/aEQjrm16ME</a>&mdash; Mariam Solaimankhil (@Mariamistan) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mariamistan/status/2021264302884388928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-offer-bangladesh-defence-systems-to-counter-chinese-influence-ambassador-in-dhaka-1770804612423">‘US to offer Bangladesh defence systems to counter Chinese influence’: Washington's envoy in Dhaka</a><h2>‘US withdrew from Afghanistan, we are grappling with violence’</h2>&nbsp;Asif said that Pakistan’s post-1999 realignment with Washington, particularly in relation to Afghanistan, left lasting damage on the country. He said the costs of realigning with the US after 1999, particularly following the September 11, 2001, attacks, were devastating. “Pakistan was treated worse than a piece of toilet paper and was used for a purpose and then thrown away,” he said.&nbsp;Asif pointed out that by aligning itself with Washington in the US-led Afghan war in the post-2001 period, Pakistan turned against the Taliban, and while the US eventually withdrew from the region, it is grappling with prolonged violence, radicalisation and economic strain.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hindu-businessman-candidacy-draws-attention-ahead-of-bangladesh-elections-who-is-krishna-nandi-1770797746642">Hindu businessman candidacy draws attention ahead of Bangladesh elections. Who is Krishna Nandi?</a><h2>‘Former military dictators joined war in Afghanistan to appease a superpower’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Asif also challenged the official narratives that Pakistan’s involvement in the Afghan conflicts was driven by religious obligation or commitment.“Two former military dictators (Zia-ul-Haq and Pervez Musharraf) had joined the war in Afghanistan, not for the sake of Islam, but to appease a superpower,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unredacted-epstein-files-have-trump-s-name-everywhere-potus-mentioned-more-than-a-million-times-1770794778216">REVEALED! Here's how many times Trump is mentioned in unredacted Epstein Files</a>&nbsp;“We deny our history and do not accept our mistakes. Terrorism is a blowback of the mistakes committed by dictators in the past,” the minister said, adding, “The losses we suffered can never be compensated.”&nbsp;He also said that Pakistan’s education system was restructured to justify these wars and the effects of those ideological changes are still visible today.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-defence-minister-says-balochistan-is-too-big-to-control-1770259873794/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-defence-minister-says-balochistan-is-too-big-to-control-1770259873794/embed</a>&nbsp;

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that by aligning itself with Washington in the US-led Afghan war in the post-2001 period, Pakistan turned against the Taliban, and while the US eventually withdrew from the region, it is grappling with prolonged violence and radicalisation.

Even as Pakistan’s leadership has been wooing the United States and President Donald Trump, the country’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has accused Washington of ‘exploiting’ the Southeast Asian nation for its strategic interests and then discarding it “like a piece of toilet paper” after its objectives were met. Asif made the stark admission while speaking in Pakistan’s National Assembly. He admitted that Pakistan often denies its terror history, calling it a “mistake committed by dictators in the past.” He also termed Islamabad’s involvement in two Afghan wars ‘a mistake’, saying terrorism in Pakistan today was the blowback of past mistakes.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that by aligning itself with Washington in the US-led Afghan war in the post-2001 period, Pakistan turned against the Taliban, and while the US eventually withdrew from the region, it is grappling with prolonged violence and radicalisation.

‘US used Pakistan like toilet paper,’ says Defence Minister Khawaja Asif

Founded in 1949, the Awami League led Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War under Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. After coups and political turmoil, Sheikh Hasina revived the party and ruled from 2009–2024. Following her 2024 ouster, the party was banned and is not contesting elections.

Why is Awami League not contesting Bangladesh elections? A look at rise and fall of Sheikh Hasina's party

The United States is planning to counter China’s rapidly increasing presence in South Asia by offering defence systems to Bangladesh as alternatives to Chinese hardware, Washington's ambassador to Dhaka told Reuters in an exclusive chat. The US will present the offer to the next government that comes to power after the national elections in Bangladesh on Thursday, the ambassador added.&nbsp;Notably, China had recently signed a defence agreement with Bangladesh to set up a drone factory near the India border. Besides, Bangladesh is also in talks with Pakistan to buy JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, multi-role combat aircraft jointly developed with China.“The United States is concerned about growing Chinese influence in South Asia and is committed to working closely with the Bangladeshi government to clearly communicate the risks of certain types of engagement with China,” US Ambassador Brent T. Christensen told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-goes-to-polls-with-12-77-crore-voters-who-is-eligible-to-vote-explained-1770798145736">Bangladesh goes to polls with 12.77 crore voters. Who is eligible to vote? Explained</a>&nbsp;“The US offers a range of options to help Bangladesh meet its military capability needs, including US systems and those from allied partners, to provide alternatives to Chinese systems,” he said without offering further details.The Chinese foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.&nbsp;<h2>‘Trump admin wants good Delhi-Dhaka ties’</h2>&nbsp;Ambassador Christensen further said that President Donald Trump’s administration would “like to see a good relationship between Bangladesh and India to support stability in the region”.New Delhi-Dhaka relations have nosedived under the interim government led by Mohd Yunus, badly affecting visa services and cricket ties between the two neighbours.Bangladesh votes in a general election on Thursday after a Gen Z-led uprising toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. She has since taken refuge in New Delhi. As Dhaka’s ties with India took a hit, Bangladesh has shown a tilt towards Pakistan. China has also deepened its influence in Bangladesh.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hindu-businessman-candidacy-draws-attention-ahead-of-bangladesh-elections-who-is-krishna-nandi-1770797746642">Hindu businessman candidacy draws attention ahead of Bangladesh elections. Who is Krishna Nandi?</a><h2>‘Commercial diplomacy our top priority’</h2>&nbsp;Christensen said many US businesses were looking at potentially investing in Bangladesh but would want the next government to show early and clear signs that it is ‘open for business’.“Commercial diplomacy is one of our top priorities, and we look forward to working with the new government to build on progress made with the interim government, particularly in strengthening commercial, economic, and security ties,” he said.Energy producer Chevron has been in Bangladesh for decades, but not many other US companies are visible in the densely populated country of 175 million people, as high taxes and difficulties in repatriating profits have created hurdles.There are no Starbucks or McDonald's outlets in Bangladesh.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unredacted-epstein-files-have-trump-s-name-everywhere-potus-mentioned-more-than-a-million-times-1770794778216">REVEALED! Here's how many times Trump is mentioned in unredacted Epstein Files</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘US largest contributor of aid for Rohingya refugees’</h2>&nbsp;The ambassador said the United States is the largest contributor to humanitarian operations for the 1.2 million Rohingya refugees sheltered in Bangladesh.“The US remains the largest contributor to the Rohingya refugee response and continues robust health programming in Bangladesh,” he said, while urging other international donors to take on a greater share of the burden.“The US cannot sustain the bulk of the effort alone. International partners need to increase their support for the Rohingya response,” he said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-elections-2026-security-tightened-yunus-promises-smooth-transfer-1770796286911/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-elections-2026-security-tightened-yunus-promises-smooth-transfer-1770796286911/embed</a>&nbsp;

China has deepened its influence in Bangladesh since the ouster of Sheikh Haseena and recently signed a defence agreement to set up a drone factory near the India border. Dhaka is also in talks with Pakistan to buy JF-17 Thunder fighter jets jointly developed with China.

The United States is planning to counter China’s rapidly increasing presence in South Asia by offering defence systems to Bangladesh as alternatives to Chinese hardware, Washington's ambassador to Dhaka told Reuters in an exclusive chat. The US will present the offer to the next government that comes to power after the national elections in Bangladesh on Thursday, the ambassador added. Notably, China had recently signed a defence agreement with Bangladesh to set up a drone factory near the India border. Besides, Bangladesh is also in talks with Pakistan to buy JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, multi-role combat aircraft jointly developed with China. “The United States is concerned about growing Chinese influence in South Asia and is committed to working closely with the Bangladeshi government to clearly communicate the risks of certain types of engagement with China,” US Ambassador Brent T. Christensen told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday. Also Read: Bangladesh goes to polls with 12.77 crore voters. Who is eligible to vote? Explained “The US offers a range of options to help Bangladesh meet its military capability needs, including US systems and those from allied partners, to provide alternatives to Chinese systems,” he said without offering further details. The Chinese foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. ‘Trump admin wants good Delhi-Dhaka ties’ Ambassador Christensen further said that President Donald Trump’s administration would “like to see a good relationship between Bangladesh and India to support stability in the region”. New Delhi-Dhaka relations have nosedived under the interim government led by Mohd Yunus, badly affecting visa services and cricket ties between the two neighbours. Bangladesh votes in a general election on Thursday after a Gen Z-led uprising toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. She has since taken refuge in New Delhi. As Dhaka’s ties with India took a hit, Bangladesh has shown a tilt towards Pakistan. China has also deepened its influence in Bangladesh. Also read | Hindu businessman candidacy draws attention ahead of Bangladesh elections. Who is Krishna Nandi? ‘Commercial diplomacy our top priority’ Christensen said many US businesses were looking at potentially investing in Bangladesh but would want the next government to show early and clear signs that it is ‘open for business’. “Commercial diplomacy is one of our top priorities, and we look forward to working with the new government to build on progress made with the interim government, particularly in strengthening commercial, economic, and security ties,” he said. Energy producer Chevron has been in Bangladesh for decades, but not many other US companies are visible in the densely populated country of 175 million people, as high taxes and difficulties in repatriating profits have created hurdles. There are no Starbucks or McDonald's outlets in Bangladesh. Also read | REVEALED! Here's how many times Trump is mentioned in unredacted Epstein Files ‘US largest contributor of aid for Rohingya refugees’ The ambassador said the United States is the largest contributor to humanitarian operations for the 1.2 million Rohingya refugees sheltered in Bangladesh. “The US remains the largest contributor to the Rohingya refugee response and continues robust health programming in Bangladesh,” he said, while urging other international donors to take on a greater share of the burden. “The US cannot sustain the bulk of the effort alone. International partners need to increase their support for the Rohingya response,” he said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-elections-2026-security-tightened-yunus-promises-smooth-transfer-1770796286911/embed

China has deepened its influence in Bangladesh since the ouster of Sheikh Haseena and recently signed a defence agreement to set up a drone factory near the India border. Dhaka is also in talks with Pakistan to buy JF-17 Thunder fighter jets jointly developed with China.

‘US to offer Bangladesh defence systems to counter Chinese influence’: Washington’s envoy in Dhaka

Bangladesh elections 2026:&nbsp;Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 12) will vote in one of its most consequential elections in decades, as authorities complete final preparations to ensure a smooth and peaceful polling process. Reports suggest that the Election Commission, along with security forces, has deployed extensive arrangements across the country, with results expected to be confirmed the following day (February 13). According to reports, over 12.77 crore voters will take part in the Bangladesh 2026 elections. But who is eligible to vote? Voter eligibility rules explained.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hindu-businessman-candidacy-draws-attention-ahead-of-bangladesh-elections-who-is-krishna-nandi-1770797746642">Hindu businessman candidacy draws attention ahead of Bangladesh elections. Who is Krishna Nandi?</a><h2>Vital elections after GenZ protests</h2>The vote comes about 18 months after a student-led uprising in 2024 forced the resignation of long-time prime minister Sheikh Hasina, ending the Awami League’s rule and ushering in a period of political transition. The upcoming election is widely seen as a test of whether Bangladesh can move toward greater accountability and institutional reform after months of unrest.More than 12.77 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots, choosing representatives for 299 parliamentary seats. Voting in one constituency has been postponed following the death of a candidate. Alongside the parliamentary vote, citizens will also participate in a national referendum on the July National Charter, a proposed framework for constitutional and governance reforms.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unredacted-epstein-files-have-trump-s-name-everywhere-potus-mentioned-more-than-a-million-times-1770794778216">REVEALED! Here's how many times Trump is mentioned in unredacted Epstein Files</a><h2>Who can vote?</h2>Under Bangladesh’s electoral laws, only citizens aged 18 or older whose names appear on the final voter list compiled by the Election Commission are eligible to vote.According to Article 122 of the Constitution and the Electoral Rolls Act of 2009, a voter must be a Bangladeshi citizen, at least 18 years old, not declared of unsound mind by a court, and a resident of an electoral area. For the first time, expatriate Bangladeshis will also be able to vote through postal ballots. The country’s diaspora is estimated at around 15 million people.&nbsp;Massive polling exercise underwayA total of 42,779 polling stations have been set up nationwide, with voting scheduled from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm without interruption. Of the eligible voters, approximately 6.48 crore are men and 6.28 crore are women.The election features 1,755 candidates from 50 registered political parties, along with 273 independent candidates. Of these, 63 are female candidates contesting under party banners and 20 running as independents.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Bangladesh elections 2026:  Over 12.77 crore voters will take part in the Bangladesh 2026 elections. But who is eligible to vote? Voter eligibility rules explained.

Bangladesh elections 2026: Bangladesh on Thursday (Feb 12) will vote in one of its most consequential elections in decades, as authorities complete final preparations to ensure a smooth and peaceful polling process. Reports suggest that the Election Commission, along with security forces, has deployed extensive arrangements across the country, with results expected to be confirmed the following day (February 13). According to reports, over 12.77 crore voters will take part in the Bangladesh 2026 elections. But who is eligible to vote? Voter eligibility rules explained. Also read | Hindu businessman candidacy draws attention ahead of Bangladesh elections. Who is Krishna Nandi? Vital elections after GenZ protests The vote comes about 18 months after a student-led uprising in 2024 forced the resignation of long-time prime minister Sheikh Hasina, ending the Awami League’s rule and ushering in a period of political transition. The upcoming election is widely seen as a test of whether Bangladesh can move toward greater accountability and institutional reform after months of unrest. More than 12.77 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots, choosing representatives for 299 parliamentary seats. Voting in one constituency has been postponed following the death of a candidate. Alongside the parliamentary vote, citizens will also participate in a national referendum on the July National Charter, a proposed framework for constitutional and governance reforms. Also read | REVEALED! Here's how many times Trump is mentioned in unredacted Epstein Files Who can vote? Under Bangladesh’s electoral laws, only citizens aged 18 or older whose names appear on the final voter list compiled by the Election Commission are eligible to vote. According to Article 122 of the Constitution and the Electoral Rolls Act of 2009, a voter must be a Bangladeshi citizen, at least 18 years old, not declared of unsound mind by a court, and a resident of an electoral area. For the first time, expatriate Bangladeshis will also be able to vote through postal ballots. The country’s diaspora is estimated at around 15 million people. Massive polling exercise underway A total of 42,779 polling stations have been set up nationwide, with voting scheduled from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm without interruption. Of the eligible voters, approximately 6.48 crore are men and 6.28 crore are women. The election features 1,755 candidates from 50 registered political parties, along with 273 independent candidates. Of these, 63 are female candidates contesting under party banners and 20 running as independents.

Bangladesh elections 2026:&nbsp; Over 12.77 crore voters will take part in the Bangladesh 2026 elections. But who is eligible to vote? Voter eligibility rules explained.

Bangladesh goes to polls with 12.77 crore voters. Who is eligible to vote? Explained

Bangladesh elections 2026: As Bangladesh heads toward parliamentary elections on February 12, an unusual candidacy has begun drawing attention across the country. Krishna Nandi, a veteran Hindu businessman from Khulna, is contesting from the Khulna-1 constituency on a Jamaat-e-Islami ticket, a political pairing that has sparked debate in a deeply polarised electoral season. His entry into the race stands out not only because he belongs to a religious minority in a Muslim-majority country, but also because of his long association with Jamaat-e-Islami, an Islamist political party often viewed as having limited minority representation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-hindu-man-killed-in-bangladesh-trader-hacked-to-death-at-workplace-1770742916457">Another Hindu man killed in Bangladesh, trader hacked to death at workplace</a><h2>Who is Krishna Nandi? Businessman enters politics</h2>Krishna Nandi, as per reports, hails from Dumuria in Khulna district and has spent more than four decades building a business network across multiple sectors. His commercial interests span construction materials like rods and cement, as well as motorcycles, fertiliser, tin, oil, and sugar.<h2>Krishna Nandi's political connect</h2>However, as per reports, despite his business background, Nandi’s connection to politics is not new. He has been associated with Jamaat-e-Islami since 2003, when the party’s Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar introduced him to the organisation. Nandi currently serves as president of Jamaat’s Hindu wing.Originally from the Khulna-5 constituency, Nandi is contesting from Khulna-1 after Parwar entered the race from Nandi’s home constituency. The Khulna-1 seat is considered politically significant, with minority voters expected to play a decisive role.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-india-and-bangladesh-are-indispensable-jamaat-softens-stance-ahead-of-polls-admits-violence-against-hindus-1770775541788">Is Jamaat softening anti-India stance ahead of Bangladesh polls?</a>"I will go to Parliament and speak for Hindus. That's why I'm running for office," Nandi told Prothom Alo in a recent interview, arguing that Jamaat-e-Islami can represent citizens beyond religious lines.Writing for Al Jazeera, he insisted that while for many his candidacy might be "unusual," for him it "reflects a deeper truth" about Bangladeshi politics. "My name is Krishna Nandi. I am a Hindu. I am a businessman. I am also a parliamentary candidate of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami. For many readers, this combination appears unusual. For me, it reflects a deeper truth about politics in Bangladesh that has long been obscured by fear, misinformation and political convenience."The elections are Bangladesh’s first since former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was removed from office in 2024 following months of protests and political upheaval. Since then, the country has been governed by a caretaker administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.

A Hindu businessman running on an Islamist party ticket. That is the unexpected twist shaping Bangladesh’s February 12 parliamentary elections. Here's all you need to know about Krishna Nandi and his candidacy from Khulna-1.

Bangladesh elections 2026: As Bangladesh heads toward parliamentary elections on February 12, an unusual candidacy has begun drawing attention across the country. Krishna Nandi, a veteran Hindu businessman from Khulna, is contesting from the Khulna-1 constituency on a Jamaat-e-Islami ticket, a political pairing that has sparked debate in a deeply polarised electoral season. His entry into the race stands out not only because he belongs to a religious minority in a Muslim-majority country, but also because of his long association with Jamaat-e-Islami, an Islamist political party often viewed as having limited minority representation. Also read | Another Hindu man killed in Bangladesh, trader hacked to death at workplace Who is Krishna Nandi? Businessman enters politics Krishna Nandi, as per reports, hails from Dumuria in Khulna district and has spent more than four decades building a business network across multiple sectors. His commercial interests span construction materials like rods and cement, as well as motorcycles, fertiliser, tin, oil, and sugar. Krishna Nandi's political connect However, as per reports, despite his business background, Nandi’s connection to politics is not new. He has been associated with Jamaat-e-Islami since 2003, when the party’s Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar introduced him to the organisation. Nandi currently serves as president of Jamaat’s Hindu wing. Originally from the Khulna-5 constituency, Nandi is contesting from Khulna-1 after Parwar entered the race from Nandi’s home constituency. The Khulna-1 seat is considered politically significant, with minority voters expected to play a decisive role. Also read | Is Jamaat softening anti-India stance ahead of Bangladesh polls? "I will go to Parliament and speak for Hindus. That's why I'm running for office," Nandi told Prothom Alo in a recent interview, arguing that Jamaat-e-Islami can represent citizens beyond religious lines. Writing for Al Jazeera, he insisted that while for many his candidacy might be "unusual," for him it "reflects a deeper truth" about Bangladeshi politics. "My name is Krishna Nandi. I am a Hindu. I am a businessman. I am also a parliamentary candidate of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami. For many readers, this combination appears unusual. For me, it reflects a deeper truth about politics in Bangladesh that has long been obscured by fear, misinformation and political convenience." The elections are Bangladesh’s first since former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was removed from office in 2024 following months of protests and political upheaval. Since then, the country has been governed by a caretaker administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.

Bangladesh elections 2026:&nbsp;A Hindu businessman running on an Islamist party ticket. That is the unexpected twist shaping Bangladesh’s February 12 parliamentary elections. Here's all you need to know about Krishna Nandi and his candidacy from Khulna-1.

Hindu businessman candidacy draws attention ahead of Bangladesh elections. Who is Krishna Nandi?

Iranians chanted anti-Khamenei slogans in Tehran as US-Iran tensions escalated. Trump warned he could “do something very tough” despite ongoing nuclear talks, keeping strike options open. Protests that began over Iran’s economic crisis have eased

‘Will do something tough’: Trump keeps attack options open as Iranians chant anti-Khamenei slogans

Instagram chief Adam Mosseri is to be called to testify Wednesday in a Los Angeles courtroom by lawyers out to prove social media is dangerously addictive by design to young, vulnerable minds.YouTube and Meta -- the parent company of Instagram and Facebook -- are defendants in a blockbuster trial that could set a legal precedent regarding whether social media giants deliberately designed their platforms to be addictive to children.Rival lawyers made opening remarks to jurors this week, with an attorney for YouTube insisting that the Google-owned video platform was neither intentionally addictive nor technically social media."It's not social media addiction when it's not social media, and it's not addiction," YouTube lawyer Luis Li told the 12 jurors during his opening remarks.The civil trial in California state court centres on allegations that a 20-year-old woman, identified as Kaley G.M., suffered severe mental harm after becoming addicted to social media as a child.She started using YouTube at six and joined Instagram at 11, before moving on to Snapchat and TikTok two or three years later.The plaintiff "is not addicted to YouTube. You can listen to her own words -- she said so, her doctor said so, her father said so," Li said, citing evidence he said would be detailed at trial.Li's opening arguments followed remarks on Monday from lawyers for the plaintiffs and co-defendant Meta.On Monday, the plaintiffs' attorney Mark Lanier told the jury that YouTube and Meta both engineer addiction in young people's brains to gain users and profits."This case is about two of the richest corporations in history who have engineered addiction in children's brains," Lanier said."They don't only build apps; they build traps."But Li told the six men and six women on the jury that he did not recognise the description of YouTube put forth by the other side and tried to draw a clear line between YouTube's widely popular video app and social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok.YouTube is selling "the ability to watch something essentially for free on your computer, on your phone, on your iPad," Li insisted, comparing the service to Netflix or traditional TV.Li said it was the quality of content that kept users coming back, citing internal company emails that he said showed executives rejecting a pursuit of internet virality in favour of educational and more socially useful content.<h2>‘Gateway drug’</h2>Stanford University School of Medicine professor Anna Lembke, the first witness called by the plaintiffs, testified that she views social media, broadly speaking, as a drug.The part of the brain that acts as a brake when it comes to having another hit is not typically developed before a person is 25 years old, Lembke, the author of the book "Dopamine Nation," told jurors."Which is why teenagers will often take risks that they shouldn't and not appreciate future consequences," Lembke testified."And typically, the gateway drug is the most easily accessible drug," she said, describing Kaley's first use of YouTube at the age of six.The case is being treated as a bellwether proceeding whose outcome could set the tone for a wave of similar litigation across the United States.Social media firms face hundreds of lawsuits accusing them of leading young users to become addicted to content and suffer from depression, eating disorders, psychiatric hospitalisation, and even suicide.Lawyers for the plaintiffs are borrowing strategies used in the 1990s and 2000s against the tobacco industry, which faced a similar onslaught of lawsuits arguing that companies knowingly sold a harmful product.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.&nbsp;

The civil trial in California state court centres on allegations that a 20-year-old woman, identified as Kaley G.M., suffered severe mental harm after becoming addicted to social media as a child.

Instagram chief Adam Mosseri is to be called to testify Wednesday in a Los Angeles courtroom by lawyers out to prove social media is dangerously addictive by design to young, vulnerable minds. YouTube and Meta -- the parent company of Instagram and Facebook -- are defendants in a blockbuster trial that could set a legal precedent regarding whether social media giants deliberately designed their platforms to be addictive to children. Rival lawyers made opening remarks to jurors this week, with an attorney for YouTube insisting that the Google-owned video platform was neither intentionally addictive nor technically social media. "It's not social media addiction when it's not social media, and it's not addiction," YouTube lawyer Luis Li told the 12 jurors during his opening remarks. The civil trial in California state court centres on allegations that a 20-year-old woman, identified as Kaley G.M., suffered severe mental harm after becoming addicted to social media as a child. She started using YouTube at six and joined Instagram at 11, before moving on to Snapchat and TikTok two or three years later. The plaintiff "is not addicted to YouTube. You can listen to her own words -- she said so, her doctor said so, her father said so," Li said, citing evidence he said would be detailed at trial. Li's opening arguments followed remarks on Monday from lawyers for the plaintiffs and co-defendant Meta. On Monday, the plaintiffs' attorney Mark Lanier told the jury that YouTube and Meta both engineer addiction in young people's brains to gain users and profits. "This case is about two of the richest corporations in history who have engineered addiction in children's brains," Lanier said. "They don't only build apps; they build traps." But Li told the six men and six women on the jury that he did not recognise the description of YouTube put forth by the other side and tried to draw a clear line between YouTube's widely popular video app and social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok. YouTube is selling "the ability to watch something essentially for free on your computer, on your phone, on your iPad," Li insisted, comparing the service to Netflix or traditional TV. Li said it was the quality of content that kept users coming back, citing internal company emails that he said showed executives rejecting a pursuit of internet virality in favour of educational and more socially useful content. ‘Gateway drug’ Stanford University School of Medicine professor Anna Lembke, the first witness called by the plaintiffs, testified that she views social media, broadly speaking, as a drug. The part of the brain that acts as a brake when it comes to having another hit is not typically developed before a person is 25 years old, Lembke, the author of the book "Dopamine Nation," told jurors. "Which is why teenagers will often take risks that they shouldn't and not appreciate future consequences," Lembke testified. "And typically, the gateway drug is the most easily accessible drug," she said, describing Kaley's first use of YouTube at the age of six. The case is being treated as a bellwether proceeding whose outcome could set the tone for a wave of similar litigation across the United States. Social media firms face hundreds of lawsuits accusing them of leading young users to become addicted to content and suffer from depression, eating disorders, psychiatric hospitalisation, and even suicide. Lawyers for the plaintiffs are borrowing strategies used in the 1990s and 2000s against the tobacco industry, which faced a similar onslaught of lawsuits arguing that companies knowingly sold a harmful product. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The civil trial in California state court centres on allegations that a 20-year-old woman, identified as Kaley G.M., suffered severe mental harm after becoming addicted to social media as a child.

Instagram chief to testify as YouTube, Meta face landmark social media addiction trial

US President Donald Trump's name appears in the Epstein Files over one million times, revealed a top democrat who reviewed the unredacted version of the notorious documents. The jaw-dropping revelation was made by Congressman Jamie Raskin, the senior Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee. Notably, a heavily redacted version of the files, with over three million documents, was released to the public in January of this year. The massive release included emails, photos, and videos, among other things.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-i-loved-the-torture-video-recipient-of-horrifying-epstein-email-finally-identified-doj-epstein-files-release-1770782784202">‘I loved the torture video’: Recipient of horrifying Epstein email FINALLY identified</a><h2>Tons of redacted stuff, millions of Trump mentions</h2>Speaking to Axios, Raskin acknowledged that "there's ton of redacted stuff," and that when he ran a search for the POTUS's name in the unredacted files, "it appears more than a million times. So it's all over the place".He later clarified that he "'Trump,' 'Donald or Don' and it came up with more than a million results." The Democrat added that he "obviously didn't have the time to review each one, and I obviously cannot guarantee that every mention of a Donald is Donald Trump as opposed to some other Donald."He revealed that the Mar-a-Lago exchange was "one of the first documents I came across." He was referring to an exchange where Epstein’s legal team reportedly quoted Trump as saying Epstein "was not a member" of his Mar-a-Lago club but remained a "guest" who had never been asked to leave.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-latest-doj-reveals-new-names-after-pressure-from-lawmakers-who-are-the-newly-named-individuals-1770772043819">Epstein files: DoJ reveals names of paedophile's co-conspirators after pressure from lawmakers. Who are the newly named individuals?</a><h2>3 million Epstein files still unreleased?</h2>On January 30, the Department of Justice released a trove of over 3.5 million Epstein files under the Epstein Files Transparency Act.While a huge chunk of these files is redacted from the public, government representatives have been given a database tool to review the files. However, Raskin said that the "DOJ database review tool given to Members is confusing, unreliable, and clunky". He also revealed that the members have been given four computers and can use them for review between nine and five."To me, this whole rollout of saying that members can come from nine to five to sit at those four computers is just part of the cover-up," asserted the Democrat. He added that the 3 million documents that the DoJ hasn't publicly released "are the ones I'd like to see". &nbsp;

A Democrat reviewing the unredacted Epstein files says Donald Trump’s name appears over a million times in the database, though not every mention may refer to the president. What exactly do those references contain, and why are millions of documents still hidden? Scroll down.

US President Donald Trump's name appears in the Epstein Files over one million times, revealed a top democrat who reviewed the unredacted version of the notorious documents. The jaw-dropping revelation was made by Congressman Jamie Raskin, the senior Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee. Notably, a heavily redacted version of the files, with over three million documents, was released to the public in January of this year. The massive release included emails, photos, and videos, among other things. Also read | ‘I loved the torture video’: Recipient of horrifying Epstein email FINALLY identified Tons of redacted stuff, millions of Trump mentions Speaking to Axios, Raskin acknowledged that "there's ton of redacted stuff," and that when he ran a search for the POTUS's name in the unredacted files, "it appears more than a million times. So it's all over the place". He later clarified that he "'Trump,' 'Donald or Don' and it came up with more than a million results." The Democrat added that he "obviously didn't have the time to review each one, and I obviously cannot guarantee that every mention of a Donald is Donald Trump as opposed to some other Donald." He revealed that the Mar-a-Lago exchange was "one of the first documents I came across." He was referring to an exchange where Epstein’s legal team reportedly quoted Trump as saying Epstein "was not a member" of his Mar-a-Lago club but remained a "guest" who had never been asked to leave. Also read | Epstein files: DoJ reveals names of paedophile's co-conspirators after pressure from lawmakers. Who are the newly named individuals? 3 million Epstein files still unreleased? On January 30, the Department of Justice released a trove of over 3.5 million Epstein files under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. While a huge chunk of these files is redacted from the public, government representatives have been given a database tool to review the files. However, Raskin said that the "DOJ database review tool given to Members is confusing, unreliable, and clunky". He also revealed that the members have been given four computers and can use them for review between nine and five. "To me, this whole rollout of saying that members can come from nine to five to sit at those four computers is just part of the cover-up," asserted the Democrat. He added that the 3 million documents that the DoJ hasn't publicly released "are the ones I'd like to see".

A Democrat reviewing the unredacted Epstein files says Donald Trump’s name appears over a million times in the database, though not every mention may refer to the president. What exactly do those references contain, and why are millions of documents still hidden? Scroll down.

Unredacted Epstein files have Trump’s name 'everywhere,' POTUS mentioned 'more than a million' times

Ahead of Netanyahu’s US visit, Iran warned Washington against Israel’s “destructive” influence on nuclear talks. Tehran said the US must act independently. While both sides signal cautious optimism, Trump reiterated that Iran must forgo nuclear weapons, warning of “tough” action if talks fail.

'Both Israel and Iran want a deal': Trump's BIG statement after Tehran warns US against Netanyahu's 'destructive' influence on nuclear talks

In Brent, London, a 13-year-old boy was arrested on Tuesday (Feb 10) for launching a stabbing rampage on his classmates. The attack left two children, aged 12 and 13, fighting for their lives. The stabbing spree, a suspected terror attack, saw the teenage attacker pull out a knife and stab other children while shouting 'Allahu Akbar,' according to reports. The horrifying attack happened at Kingsbury High School in Brent, north-west London.<h2>What happened?</h2>On Tuesday afternoon, a 13-year-old student of the Kingsbury High School pulled out a knife and stabbed another 13-year-old in the neck and back. Seconds later, he attacked a 12-year-old boy, as other screaming children watched in horror. Citing witnesses, the Daily Mail reports that the attacker was shouting 'Allahu Akbar' ('God is greatest' in Arabic) while carrying out the attack.The knife-wielding teenager fled after the attack, but an hour later was found hiding nearby. He has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-i-loved-the-torture-video-recipient-of-horrifying-epstein-email-finally-identified-doj-epstein-files-release-1770782784202">‘I loved the torture video’: Recipient of horrifying Epstein email FINALLY identified</a><h2>What we know about the attacker</h2>Reports put the attacker's age at 13 years old and suggest that he was not a pupil at Kingsbury High School, where he carried out the shocking knife attack. It remains unclear how he managed to enter the school with a concealed weapon.The identity of the attacker has not been released as he's a minor. Counter Terrorism police have taken over the investigation amid suspicion that the attack was ideologically motivated. Nevertheless, the authorities have not yet officially classified the stabbing incident as a terrorist attack. Officers continue to carry out searches related to the suspect. Many of the witnesses, mostly young children, were held in school for hours after as part of the inquiry, reports The Daily Mail.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-operation-dildo-blitz-goes-viral-anti-ice-protest-takes-shocking-turn-as-sex-toys-rain-down-on-federal-agents-in-minneapolis-in-pics-1770704251399">‘Operation Dildo Blitz’ goes viral: Anti-ICE protest takes shocking turn as sex toys rain down on federal agents | In Pics</a><h2>What we know about the victims</h2>The victims of the senseless attack have not yet been identified. According to reports, the two injured boys were in a life-threatening condition in the hospital.Talking to the press, Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams said that the police were "keeping an open mind as to any motivation behind the attack". He added that the attacker fled the scene after the stabbing but "After urgent inquiries, our officers arrested him and also recovered a weapon which we believe to have been used in the stabbing." He was "arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in custody for questioning by our officers".&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

A stabbing inside a London school has left two children fighting for their lives after a 13-year-old suspect allegedly attacked them with a knife. Police are probing possible extremist motives, but key questions remain about how it unfolded. Scroll down for more.

In Brent, London, a 13-year-old boy was arrested on Tuesday (Feb 10) for launching a stabbing rampage on his classmates. The attack left two children, aged 12 and 13, fighting for their lives. The stabbing spree, a suspected terror attack, saw the teenage attacker pull out a knife and stab other children while shouting 'Allahu Akbar,' according to reports. The horrifying attack happened at Kingsbury High School in Brent, north-west London. What happened? On Tuesday afternoon, a 13-year-old student of the Kingsbury High School pulled out a knife and stabbed another 13-year-old in the neck and back. Seconds later, he attacked a 12-year-old boy, as other screaming children watched in horror. Citing witnesses, the Daily Mail reports that the attacker was shouting 'Allahu Akbar' ('God is greatest' in Arabic) while carrying out the attack. The knife-wielding teenager fled after the attack, but an hour later was found hiding nearby. He has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. Also read | ‘I loved the torture video’: Recipient of horrifying Epstein email FINALLY identified What we know about the attacker Reports put the attacker's age at 13 years old and suggest that he was not a pupil at Kingsbury High School, where he carried out the shocking knife attack. It remains unclear how he managed to enter the school with a concealed weapon. The identity of the attacker has not been released as he's a minor. Counter Terrorism police have taken over the investigation amid suspicion that the attack was ideologically motivated. Nevertheless, the authorities have not yet officially classified the stabbing incident as a terrorist attack. Officers continue to carry out searches related to the suspect. Many of the witnesses, mostly young children, were held in school for hours after as part of the inquiry, reports The Daily Mail. Also read | ‘Operation Dildo Blitz’ goes viral: Anti-ICE protest takes shocking turn as sex toys rain down on federal agents | In Pics What we know about the victims The victims of the senseless attack have not yet been identified. According to reports, the two injured boys were in a life-threatening condition in the hospital. Talking to the press, Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams said that the police were "keeping an open mind as to any motivation behind the attack". He added that the attacker fled the scene after the stabbing but "After urgent inquiries, our officers arrested him and also recovered a weapon which we believe to have been used in the stabbing." He was "arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in custody for questioning by our officers".

A stabbing inside a London school has left two children fighting for their lives after a 13-year-old suspect allegedly attacked them with a knife. Police are probing possible extremist motives, but key questions remain about how it unfolded. Scroll down for more.

London school knife attack: 13-year-old shouting ‘Allahu Akbar’ stabs classmates, two fighting for life

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London school knife attack: 13YO shouting ‘Allahu Akbar’ stabs classmates