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After praising the RSS-BJP ecosystem in his social media post, senior Congress leader and MP Digvijaya Singh had to say a lot in his clarification to soothe the ruffled feathers within his party, and just when the row was settling down, another party leader, Manickam Tagore, has equated the RSS with Al Qaeda, sparking a fresh controversy and drawing a sharp reaction from the BJP. Reacting to Digvijaya’s remark, Tagore said RSS is an organisation that is built on hatred. “The RSS is an organisation built on hatred, and it spreads hatred. There is nothing to learn from hatred. Can you learn anything from Al-Qaeda? Al-Qaeda is an organisation of hatred. It hates others. What is there to learn from that organisation?” Manickam Tagore told ANI.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: On Congress leader Digvijaya Singh praising the organisational strength of the RSS, Congress MP Manickam Tagore says, &quot;...The RSS is an organisation built on hatred, and it spreads hatred. There is nothing to learn from hatred. Can you learn anything from… <a href="https://t.co/yDlTv2Vmqh">pic.twitter.com/yDlTv2Vmqh</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2005176672556122213?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-pm-modi-s-foreign-visits-redefine-india-s-global-outreach-and-influence-1766919586333">Yearender 2025: PM Modi’s foreign visits redefine India’s global outreach and influence</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Interestingly, Tagore, the Congress MP from Tamil Nadu, had earlier in the day, shared a video of the ‘famous self goal’ in an apparent jibe at Digvijaya.&nbsp;<h2>BJP slams Manickam Tagore, warns of defamation suit</h2>&nbsp;BJP National Spokesperson R.P. Singh on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the Congress party and its MP Manickam Tagore over his remarks against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), warning that the leader should introspect or be prepared to face a defamation suit.&nbsp;“Manickam Tagore should think ten times before speaking, otherwise he’ll have to face a defamation case later,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-of-wars-tariff-turmoil-and-climate-disasters-1766568207775">Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters</a>&nbsp;Singh said that, unlike the Congress, the BJP and RSS focus on their grassroots workers. “He is correct. This is possible only in the BJP, where a grassroots worker can become a chief minister and even the country’s prime minister.”&nbsp;BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla also took strong exception to Tagore’s remark and said, “Congress has now gone berserk in its thirst for vote-bank politics. After insulting Hindu, Sanatan, Sena, Bharat, now they are targeting a nationalistic organisation also... In an organisation that has been working for the last 100 years for national dedication and national service, they are saying that these are terrorists, but they have nothing to say about the atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh. They have placed votebank politics above everything else,” Poonawalla said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-dissent-and-angst-triggered-mass-protests-worldwide-1766674340518">Yearender 2025: The year dissent and angst triggered mass protests worldwide</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: On Congress leader Manickam Tagore’s statement, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla says, &quot;Congress has now gone berserk in its thirst for vote-bank politics. After insulting Hindu, Sanatan, Sena, Bharat, now they are targeting a nationalistic organisation also...… <a href="https://t.co/COTSET4EzK">pic.twitter.com/COTSET4EzK</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2005200758116176039?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>Salman Khurshid backs Tagore’s remark</h2>&nbsp;Congress leader Salman Khurshid backed Tagore’s statement, questioning the role of RSS as a social organisation.“If they (RSS) are a social organisation, then why do they try to influence the system in such a way that other people cannot even function in a democracy?” Khurshid asked.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-may-darkness-give-way-to-dawn-sheikh-hasina-slams-yunus-govt-over-attacks-on-minorities-1766685102235">‘Perpetrating unspeakable atrocities’: Sheikh Hasina slams Yunus govt over attacks on minorities</a>&nbsp;On Saturday, Digvijaya shared an undated old photograph of Prime Minister Narendra Modi with BJP veteran Lal Krishna Advani, lauding the BJP and the RSS, for what he claimed, making an ordinary worker “a state’s chief minister and the country’s prime minister.”

Congress leader Salman Khurshid backed Tagore’s statement, questioning the role of RSS as a social organisation. If they (RSS) are a social organisation, then why do they try to influence the system in such a way that other people cannot even function in a democracy? Khurshid asked.

After praising the RSS-BJP ecosystem in his social media post, senior Congress leader and MP Digvijaya Singh had to say a lot in his clarification to soothe the ruffled feathers within his party, and just when the row was settling down, another party leader, Manickam Tagore, has equated the RSS with Al Qaeda, sparking a fresh controversy and drawing a sharp reaction from the BJP. Reacting to Digvijaya’s remark, Tagore said RSS is an organisation that is built on hatred. “The RSS is an organisation built on hatred, and it spreads hatred. There is nothing to learn from hatred. Can you learn anything from Al-Qaeda? Al-Qaeda is an organisation of hatred. It hates others. What is there to learn from that organisation?” Manickam Tagore told ANI.

Congress leader Salman Khurshid backed Tagore’s statement, questioning the role of RSS as a social organisation. If they (RSS) are a social organisation, then why do they try to influence the system in such a way that other people cannot even function in a democracy? Khurshid asked.

After Digvijaya’s praise, Congress MP Manickam Tagore equates RSS with Al Qaeda; BJPs slams remark

Two prime suspects in the murder of Bangladesh student leader Sharif Osman Hadi fled to India via the Haluaghat border in Mymensingh district, which is connected to Meghalaya, after perpetrating the act, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) claimed on Sunday (Dec 28). Additional Commissioner S N Nuzrul Islam, during a media briefing at DMP media centre, said the suspects, Faisal Karim Masud and Alamgir Sheikh, crossed into the Indian state of Meghalaya with the help of local associates, as reported by the Daily Star.&nbsp;“According to our information, the suspects entered India via the Haluaghat border. After crossing, they were initially received by an individual named Purti. Later, a taxi driver named Sami transported them to Tura city in Meghalaya," Nazrul Islam said.&nbsp;Nazrul Islam further claimed that they have received informal reports suggesting that the two individuals who helped the suspects, Purti and Sami, have been detained by Indian authorities. He added that the Bangladesh government is engaged with India through both formal and informal channels to secure the return of the suspects.&nbsp;“We are maintaining communication with Indian authorities through both formal and informal channels to ensure their arrest and extradition," he said.<h2>India rejects claims</h2>The Border Security Force (BSF) and Meghalaya police strongly rejected these claims, describing them as "baseless and misleading", and said that they haven't received any communication from the Bangladesh regarding the said individuals.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-spiralling-debt-crisis-pakistan-to-sell-1bn-fauji-foundation-stake-to-uae-pakistan-economy-pakistan-economic-crisis-pakistan-army-1766918849837">Amid spiralling debt crisis, Pakistan to sell $1bn Fauji Foundation stake to UAE</a>“There is no evidence whatsoever of these individuals crossing the international border from the Haluaghat sector into Meghalaya. No such incident has been detected or reported by the BSF. These claims are baseless and misleading,” BSF Inspector General O P Upadhayay said.&nbsp;The slain activist Osman Hadi was a leading political figure and was known for his sharp criticism of India and the Awami League. He rose to prominence during violent student-led agitation in 2024, known as the July mass uprising, which resulted in the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina-led Bangladesh government.&nbsp;Hadi launched a political outfit named Inqilab Mancha, intended to contest the upcoming national elections in February 2026. He was shot in the head by masked assailants in Dhaka on December 12 and died six years later while receiving treatment in Singapore. Osman Hadi's killing sparked widespread violence across the country, particularly in Dhaka, targeting Awami League supporters and Hindu minorities in the country.&nbsp;Protesters went on a rampage during the unrest, ransacking the offices of leading newspapers such as The Daily Star, Prothom Alo and New Age, setting parts of the buildings on fire and disrupting printing operations. Demonstrators also torched or damaged other sites, including the historic cultural centre Chhayanaut and remnants of key political buildings, while in Rajshahi, crowds used heavy machinery, including a bulldozer, to demolish an Awami League party office.

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police claimed that two prime suspects in the murder of Bangladeshi political activist Sharif Osman Hadi escaped to India via the Meghalaya border following the killing.

Two prime suspects in the murder of Bangladesh student leader Sharif Osman Hadi fled to India via the Haluaghat border in Mymensingh district, which is connected to Meghalaya, after perpetrating the act, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) claimed on Sunday (Dec 28). Additional Commissioner S N Nuzrul Islam, during a media briefing at DMP media centre, said the suspects, Faisal Karim Masud and Alamgir Sheikh, crossed into the Indian state of Meghalaya with the help of local associates, as reported by the Daily Star. “According to our information, the suspects entered India via the Haluaghat border. After crossing, they were initially received by an individual named Purti. Later, a taxi driver named Sami transported them to Tura city in Meghalaya," Nazrul Islam said. Nazrul Islam further claimed that they have received informal reports suggesting that the two individuals who helped the suspects, Purti and Sami, have been detained by Indian authorities. He added that the Bangladesh government is engaged with India through both formal and informal channels to secure the return of the suspects. “We are maintaining communication with Indian authorities through both formal and informal channels to ensure their arrest and extradition," he said. India rejects claims The Border Security Force (BSF) and Meghalaya police strongly rejected these claims, describing them as "baseless and misleading", and said that they haven't received any communication from the Bangladesh regarding the said individuals. Also Read: Amid spiralling debt crisis, Pakistan to sell $1bn Fauji Foundation stake to UAE “There is no evidence whatsoever of these individuals crossing the international border from the Haluaghat sector into Meghalaya. No such incident has been detected or reported by the BSF. These claims are baseless and misleading,” BSF Inspector General O P Upadhayay said. The slain activist Osman Hadi was a leading political figure and was known for his sharp criticism of India and the Awami League. He rose to prominence during violent student-led agitation in 2024, known as the July mass uprising, which resulted in the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina-led Bangladesh government. Hadi launched a political outfit named Inqilab Mancha, intended to contest the upcoming national elections in February 2026. He was shot in the head by masked assailants in Dhaka on December 12 and died six years later while receiving treatment in Singapore. Osman Hadi's killing sparked widespread violence across the country, particularly in Dhaka, targeting Awami League supporters and Hindu minorities in the country. Protesters went on a rampage during the unrest, ransacking the offices of leading newspapers such as The Daily Star, Prothom Alo and New Age, setting parts of the buildings on fire and disrupting printing operations. Demonstrators also torched or damaged other sites, including the historic cultural centre Chhayanaut and remnants of key political buildings, while in Rajshahi, crowds used heavy machinery, including a bulldozer, to demolish an Awami League party office.

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police claimed that two prime suspects in the murder of Bangladeshi political activist Sharif Osman Hadi escaped to India via the Meghalaya border following the killing.

2 suspects in Osman Hadi murder case escaped to Meghalaya, says Bangladesh police; Indian authorities reject claims

In a statement, US Congressman Ro Khanna has "unequivocally" condemned the lynching of a Hindu youth, Dipu Chandra Das, in Bangladesh. In a post on X on Saturday (Dec 27), Khanna, a member of the US House of Representatives from California, reacted to the killing of Das, 27-year-old Hindu garment worker, and stressed the need for a strong and clear response to such incidents. "The killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a 27-year-old Hindu garment worker in Bangladesh is horrific and my thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family. We must unequivocally condemn and speak out against these vile acts of hatred and bigotry," his post read.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bangladesh-home-ministry-official-resigns-tariq-rahman-returns-amid-pressure-on-yunus-what-s-latest-from-bangladesh-1766652351022">Bangladesh Home ministry official resigns, Tariq Rahman returns amid pressure on Yunus — What's latest from Bangladesh</a><h3>Dipu Chandra's killing</h3>Dipu Chandra Das was lynched by an angry mob in Mymensingh in the violence that erupted in Bangladesh after the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent leader of the 2024 student uprising in Bangladesh and spokesperson for the radical political platform Inqilab Mancha (Manch). A day ago, shocking findings into the death of Das emerged. Police and the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) in Bangladesh have said that they have not found any evidence to substantiate claims that Dipu insulted religion. Mymensingh Additional Superintendent of Police (Administration) Abdullah Al Mamun said that the allegations of blasphemy are currently based on word of mouth. Investigators also suggested that the killing might have been due to an internal conflict at the factory where Dipu worked.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bangladesh-on-boil-again-hadi-dipu-chandra-s-murder-mob-on-streets-greater-bangladesh-controversy-and-upcoming-polls-what-s-happening-1766483660223">Bangladesh on boil again: Hadi, Dipu Chandra's murder, mob on streets, Greater B'desh map controversy and upcoming polls - What's happening</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, India on Sunday (Dec 21) expressed concern at the “horrendous killing." Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India is keeping a close watch on the evolving situation in Bangladesh. “Our officials remain in touch with Bangladesh authorities and have conveyed to them our strong concerns at the attacks on minorities. We have also urged that the perpetrators of the barbaric killing of Das be brought to justice.”

US Congressman Ro Khanna strongly condemned the lynching of 27-year-old Hindu worker Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh, calling it a vile act of hatred. India also expressed grave concern, urging Dhaka to protect minorities and ensure justice amid rising unrest.

In a statement, US Congressman Ro Khanna has "unequivocally" condemned the lynching of a Hindu youth, Dipu Chandra Das, in Bangladesh. In a post on X on Saturday (Dec 27), Khanna, a member of the US House of Representatives from California, reacted to the killing of Das, 27-year-old Hindu garment worker, and stressed the need for a strong and clear response to such incidents. "The killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a 27-year-old Hindu garment worker in Bangladesh is horrific and my thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family. We must unequivocally condemn and speak out against these vile acts of hatred and bigotry," his post read. Also Read: Bangladesh Home ministry official resigns, Tariq Rahman returns amid pressure on Yunus — What's latest from Bangladesh Dipu Chandra's killing Dipu Chandra Das was lynched by an angry mob in Mymensingh in the violence that erupted in Bangladesh after the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent leader of the 2024 student uprising in Bangladesh and spokesperson for the radical political platform Inqilab Mancha (Manch). A day ago, shocking findings into the death of Das emerged. Police and the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) in Bangladesh have said that they have not found any evidence to substantiate claims that Dipu insulted religion. Mymensingh Additional Superintendent of Police (Administration) Abdullah Al Mamun said that the allegations of blasphemy are currently based on word of mouth. Investigators also suggested that the killing might have been due to an internal conflict at the factory where Dipu worked. Also Read: Bangladesh on boil again: Hadi, Dipu Chandra's murder, mob on streets, Greater B'desh map controversy and upcoming polls - What's happening Meanwhile, India on Sunday (Dec 21) expressed concern at the “horrendous killing." Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India is keeping a close watch on the evolving situation in Bangladesh. “Our officials remain in touch with Bangladesh authorities and have conveyed to them our strong concerns at the attacks on minorities. We have also urged that the perpetrators of the barbaric killing of Das be brought to justice.”

US Congressman Ro Khanna strongly condemned the lynching of 27-year-old Hindu worker Dipu Chandra Das in Bangladesh, calling it a vile act of hatred. India also expressed grave concern, urging Dhaka to protect minorities and ensure justice amid rising unrest.

'Vile acts of hatred and bigotry...': US Congressman condemns mob lynching of Hindu youth in Bangladesh

Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman returned to his country 17 years after living in self-imposed exile. Expressing his gratitude to the people of Bangladesh, Rahman said that the strength of Bangladesh is in being united. His message came amid unrest in the country over the killing of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi and violence on Hindu minorities.&nbsp;Taking to social media, Rahman wrote, "Dear friends, sisters, and brothers across Bangladesh, Last Thursday was a day I will carry in my heart forever, the day I returned to the soil of my homeland after 17 long years. The warmth of your welcome, the sea of faces along the roads of Dhaka, and the prayers of millions are moments I will never forget. My deepest thanks to all. Words cannot fully express the respect and love my family and I feel for this homecoming. To our supporters who stood by us through every trial and never lost hope, your courage continues to give me strength. He also said, "To members of civil society, youth, professionals, farmers, workers, and citizens from all walks of life, thank you for reminding us that the true power of Bangladesh always lies in its people, when united…I appreciate the thoughtful reflections that emphasised democracy, multiparty coexistence, and the enduring will of the people. I am grateful for the warm welcome and for the hope expressed for a democratic, peaceful political culture, as well as the call to move beyond politics driven by vengeance. I take these words with humility and respect," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bangladesh-home-ministry-official-resigns-tariq-rahman-returns-amid-pressure-on-yunus-what-s-latest-from-bangladesh-1766652351022">Bangladesh Home ministry official resigns, Tariq Rahman returns amid pressure on Yunus — What's latest from Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;Rahman further said that he was in the country with a plan to build an inclusive Bangladesh. "When I spoke yesterday, I spoke of a plan, not just a dream, for Bangladesh's future: a country where peace and dignity thrive, where every community feels secure and valued, and where every child can grow with hope. This is a plan for all Bangladeshis. A united, inclusive Bangladesh. A Bangladesh that moves forward together. Thank you for welcoming me home. May Allah bless Bangladesh and all of you, now and always," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-extremists-are-using-yunus-sheikh-hasina-s-big-statement-amid-violent-unrest-in-bangladesh-killing-of-minorities-1766905009350">'Extremists are using Yunus...': Sheikh Hasina's BIG statement amid violent unrest in Bangladesh, killing of minorities</a>&nbsp;On Dec 25, when he returned, supporters gathered in large numbers to welcome the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader. Addressing his supporters, the aspiring prime minister and son of former PM Khaleda Zia, invoked Martin Luther King Jr and paid his tributes to radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who was killed recently by unidentified gunmen. Speaking about the upcoming elections, Rahman said that whosoever will be chosen after the polls, will uphold the justice system. Attempting to strike a sympathetic chord with the supporters, Rahman recalled his ailing mother Khaleda Zia and said, “As a son, my heart and soul is beside my mother near her hospital bed, but I have a duty. We have a duty. We will work together to build our Bangladesh.” He also recalled the 2024 uprising that forced former PM Sheikh Hasina to flee the country and said, “We liberated Bangladesh in 1971. We liberated it again in 2024.” Referring to Martin Luther's 'I have a dream' speech, Rahman said, "I have a plan, for the people of my country." "We need to safeguard peace in Bangladesh at any cost. Be it men, women, or children, upholding the peace and dignity of Bangladesh should always be the first priority. We will all work together and build our desired Bangladesh," said Rahman. Soon after his speech, he rushed to the hospital to meet his mother at Evercare Hospital in Bashundhara.

BNP leader Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile, thanking citizens for their support and calling for unity and an inclusive future. His homecoming comes amid political unrest

Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman returned to his country 17 years after living in self-imposed exile. Expressing his gratitude to the people of Bangladesh, Rahman said that the strength of Bangladesh is in being united. His message came amid unrest in the country over the killing of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi and violence on Hindu minorities. Taking to social media, Rahman wrote, "Dear friends, sisters, and brothers across Bangladesh, Last Thursday was a day I will carry in my heart forever, the day I returned to the soil of my homeland after 17 long years. The warmth of your welcome, the sea of faces along the roads of Dhaka, and the prayers of millions are moments I will never forget. My deepest thanks to all. Words cannot fully express the respect and love my family and I feel for this homecoming. To our supporters who stood by us through every trial and never lost hope, your courage continues to give me strength. He also said, "To members of civil society, youth, professionals, farmers, workers, and citizens from all walks of life, thank you for reminding us that the true power of Bangladesh always lies in its people, when united…I appreciate the thoughtful reflections that emphasised democracy, multiparty coexistence, and the enduring will of the people. I am grateful for the warm welcome and for the hope expressed for a democratic, peaceful political culture, as well as the call to move beyond politics driven by vengeance. I take these words with humility and respect," he said. Also Read: Bangladesh Home ministry official resigns, Tariq Rahman returns amid pressure on Yunus — What's latest from Bangladesh Rahman further said that he was in the country with a plan to build an inclusive Bangladesh. "When I spoke yesterday, I spoke of a plan, not just a dream, for Bangladesh's future: a country where peace and dignity thrive, where every community feels secure and valued, and where every child can grow with hope. This is a plan for all Bangladeshis. A united, inclusive Bangladesh. A Bangladesh that moves forward together. Thank you for welcoming me home. May Allah bless Bangladesh and all of you, now and always," he said. Also Read: 'Extremists are using Yunus...': Sheikh Hasina's BIG statement amid violent unrest in Bangladesh, killing of minorities On Dec 25, when he returned, supporters gathered in large numbers to welcome the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader. Addressing his supporters, the aspiring prime minister and son of former PM Khaleda Zia, invoked Martin Luther King Jr and paid his tributes to radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who was killed recently by unidentified gunmen. Speaking about the upcoming elections, Rahman said that whosoever will be chosen after the polls, will uphold the justice system. Attempting to strike a sympathetic chord with the supporters, Rahman recalled his ailing mother Khaleda Zia and said, “As a son, my heart and soul is beside my mother near her hospital bed, but I have a duty. We have a duty. We will work together to build our Bangladesh.” He also recalled the 2024 uprising that forced former PM Sheikh Hasina to flee the country and said, “We liberated Bangladesh in 1971. We liberated it again in 2024.” Referring to Martin Luther's 'I have a dream' speech, Rahman said, "I have a plan, for the people of my country." "We need to safeguard peace in Bangladesh at any cost. Be it men, women, or children, upholding the peace and dignity of Bangladesh should always be the first priority. We will all work together and build our desired Bangladesh," said Rahman. Soon after his speech, he rushed to the hospital to meet his mother at Evercare Hospital in Bashundhara.

BNP leader Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile, thanking citizens for their support and calling for unity and an inclusive future. His homecoming comes amid political unrest

'True power of Bangladesh always lies in its people, when united': Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman's 'unity' pitch amid violence on minorities

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to pursue his proactive and expansive foreign policy in 2025 as well and travelled widely, visiting nations in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas. The PM’s foreign policy aims have largely centred on reinforcing bilateral relations and shaping India’s global role. The PM’s foreign visits in 2025 were focussed on fostering economic cooperation, furthering security and defence ties, and positioning India as a leader of the Global South. Let’s take a look at PM Modi’s foreign visits in 2025 and their impacts.&nbsp;<h2>France (February 10–12) and US (February 13)</h2>&nbsp;PM Modi’s first major foreign visit in 2025 was to France, as he aimed at&nbsp;reinforcing strategic ties with Paris, particularly in technology, defence, and artificial intelligence. During this trip, PM Modi co-chaired the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron, signalling a strong bilateral commitment to advance ethical AI research and innovation. They also emphasised on bilateral cooperation in digital infrastructure and defence technology. The two leaders also jointly addressed the India-France CEOs Forum.&nbsp;PM Modi visited the United States at the invitation of President Donald Trump, and it was the first visit after the start of Trump’s second term. The PM met Tulsi Gabbard, Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy. Trump and Modi announced plans to negotiate the first tranche of a mutually beneficial multi-sector bilateral trade agreement by the fall of 2025, as well as plans to finalise a new 10-year framework for the US-India major defence partnership from 2025 to 2035.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-israel-europe-waging-a-total-war-on-our-country-iran-president-masoud-pezeshkian-1766857358756">US, Israel, Europe waging a ‘total war’ on our country: Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian</a><h2>Mauritius (March 11–12, 2025)</h2>&nbsp;PM Modi attended&nbsp;the National Day celebrations of Mauritius as the chief guest during his visit to enhance the special and historical ties between India and the Indian Ocean state. MoUs for strengthening maritime security cooperation and economic collaboration were also inked on the trip.&nbsp;<h2>Thailand and Sri Lanka (April 3–6)</h2>&nbsp;The prime minister visited Thailand and Sri Lanka in April, reinforcing regional frameworks like BIMSTEC and strengthening ties with Sri Lanka in trade, defence, and energy cooperation. The visits emphasised India’s continued focus on “Neighbourhood First” policy.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-of-wars-tariff-turmoil-and-climate-disasters-1766568207775">Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters</a><h2>Saudi Arabia (April 22)</h2>&nbsp;PM Modi went on a state visit to Saudi Arabia, an important partner in energy security and regional geopolitics and held talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman focusing on strategic collaboration across energy, trade, and regional security issues. . Saudi Arabia remains central to India’s energy imports. The PM had to cut short his visit and head home because of the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir where 26 innocent civilians were killed.&nbsp;<h2>Cyprus, Canada, and Croatia (June 15–19)</h2>&nbsp;Cyprus&nbsp;PM Modi’s visit to Cyprus was the first to the country by an Indian PM in over 20 years. India and Cyprus endorsed a five-year Joint Action Plan (2025–29) to deepen cooperation across defence, counterterrorism, regional security, and technology sectors. Agreements were also signed for cooperation in financial services, cross-border UPI payments, and tourism enhancement.&nbsp;&nbsp;Canada&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney

&nbsp;&nbsp;PM Modi visited Canada and participated in the Outreach Session of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis. He also held a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of Canada, Mark Carney. They agreed to take calibrated steps to restore stability in the ties, beginning with the early return of High Commissioners to each other’s capitals, and to rebuild trust and bring momentum to the relations that had strained during former PM Justin Trudeau’s term. Their discussions focused on trade, energy cooperation, and diaspora engagement.&nbsp;Croatia<h2>&nbsp;</h2>This visit was historically significant as it was the first by an Indian PM to Croatia in decades. Agreements were signed to enhance agricultural cooperation, cultural exchanges, and science-technology partnerships.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-dissent-and-angst-triggered-mass-protests-worldwide-1766674340518">Yearender 2025: The year dissent and angst triggered mass protests worldwide</a>&nbsp;<h2>Ghana, Trinidad &amp; Tobago, Argentina, Brazil &amp; Namibia (July 2–9)</h2>&nbsp;In July, PM Modi embarked on a multi-nation tour spanning Africa, the Caribbean, Latin America, and Southern Africa.&nbsp;Ghana&nbsp;Modi’s visit to Ghana focused on expanding cooperation in trade, technology, energy, and education, and highlighting India’s commitment to African engagement.&nbsp;Trinidad &amp; Tobago&nbsp;The visit underscored historical and cultural ties with the Caribbean nation. Several bilateral agreements were signed for infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, and cultural sectors. PM Modi was conferred Trinidad &amp; Tobago’s highest national honour.&nbsp;<h3>Argentina &amp; Brazil</h3>&nbsp;In Argentina, Modi engaged with President Javier Milei, strengthening strategic and economic ties. In Brazil, Modi attended the 17th BRICS Summit, where India and fellow emerging powers discussed multipolar global governance, cooperation in trade, and sustainable development goals.&nbsp;<h3>Namibia</h3>&nbsp;During the Namibia visit, PM Modi met President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and held discussions on digital cooperation, defence, energy, and cooperation in critical minerals, all important areas for India’s strategic interests in Africa.This multi-country tour reinforced India’s leadership within the BRICS framework and its growing engagement with the Global South.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-diplomacy-would-not-work-without-security-zelensky-to-speak-with-allies-before-trump-meeting-1766846371768">‘Diplomacy would not work without security’: Zelensky to speak with allies before Trump meeting</a><h2>United Kingdom (July 23–24)</h2>&nbsp;PM Modi’s visit to the United Kingdom was a milestone in India’s trade diplomacy. The India–United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) was signed, aimed at significantly boosting bilateral trade and investment flows. The pact is being seen as a “historic milestone” in economic ties, addressing tariffs, market access, and investment protections. PM Modi and Prime Minister Keir Starmer also discussed global and regional security issues.&nbsp;<h2>Maldives (July 25–26, 2025)</h2>&nbsp;PM Modi was the Guest of Honour at the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day. The visit was crucial for resetting ties after previous tensions. India and the Maldives agreed on a roadmap towards a Free Trade Agreement and signed multiple MoUs covering digital economy cooperation (including UPI), infrastructure, health, aquaculture, and climate action. India also extended a financial support package, including a line of credit and investment treaties.&nbsp;<h2>Japan (August 29–30)</h2>&nbsp;PM Modi’s visit to Japan was timed with the 15th India–Japan Annual Summit with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Discussions focused on strategic partnership enhancement, defence cooperation, supply chain resilience, and regional security, particularly with respect to Indo-Pacific stability. Japan is one of India’s closest partners in technology collaboration and infrastructure development.&nbsp;<h2>China</h2>&nbsp;The Prime Minister visited China to attend the SCO Summit at Tianjin. He held a bilateral meeting with President Xi Jinping. Both leaders agreed that the two countries were primarily focused on their domestic development goals and were partners rather than rivals. They also shared a consensus that differences should not be allowed to turn into disputes.&nbsp;<h2>Bhutan (November 11–12)</h2>&nbsp;The PM went on a state visit to Bhutan and participated in the 70th birth anniversary celebrations of the Druk Gyalpo. He also inaugurated major hydroelectric projects, underscoring India’s developmental and cultural ties with its Himalayan neighbour.&nbsp;<h2>South Africa (November 21–23)</h2>&nbsp;The PM went to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit in South Africa and held several bilaterals with European and African leaders on the sidelines.&nbsp;<h2>Jordan, Ethiopia, and Oman (December 15–18)</h2>&nbsp;PM Modi went on a three-nation visit to Jordan, Ethiopia, and Oman from December 15 to 18, 2025, to strengthen strategic, economic, and cultural ties with key partners in West Asia and Africa.&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;In Jordan, PM Modi met King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein to review bilateral relations, deepen cooperation across multiple sectors, and discuss regional and global issues. It was India’s first full-fledged trip to Jordan, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Agreements were signed on renewable energy, water management, cultural exchange, and digital solutions, and the leaders agreed to increase bilateral trade to USD 5 billion over the next five years.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-may-darkness-give-way-to-dawn-sheikh-hasina-slams-yunus-govt-over-attacks-on-minorities-1766685102235">‘Perpetrating unspeakable atrocities’: Sheikh Hasina slams Yunus govt over attacks on minorities</a>&nbsp;Ethiopia&nbsp;PM Modi went to Ethiopia for his first state visit to the nation at the invitation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali. The leaders held wide-ranging talks on development cooperation, investment, agriculture, technology, and broader South-South cooperation. PM Modi was conferred Ethiopia’s highest honour, the Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia, underscoring the growing partnership between the two democracies.&nbsp;Oman&nbsp;In the final leg of the tour, PM Modi was welcomed to Oman by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. The visit marked the 70th anniversary of India-Oman diplomatic relations and included high-level consultations on trade, defence, energy, technology, and connectivity. A major milestone was the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to enhance bilateral trade. PM Modi was honoured with Oman’s Order of Oman (First Class) for his contribution to strengthening ties.

PM Modi’s foreign visits in 2025 were focussed on fostering economic cooperation, furthering security and defence ties, and positioning India as a leader of the Global South. The PM’s foreign policy aims have largely centred on reinforcing bilateral relations and shaping India’s global role.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to pursue his proactive and expansive foreign policy in 2025 as well and travelled widely, visiting nations in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas. The PM’s foreign policy aims have largely centred on reinforcing bilateral relations and shaping India’s global role. The PM’s foreign visits in 2025 were focussed on fostering economic cooperation, furthering security and defence ties, and positioning India as a leader of the Global South. Let’s take a look at PM Modi’s foreign visits in 2025 and their impacts. France (February 10–12) and US (February 13) PM Modi’s first major foreign visit in 2025 was to France, as he aimed at reinforcing strategic ties with Paris, particularly in technology, defence, and artificial intelligence. During this trip, PM Modi co-chaired the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron, signalling a strong bilateral commitment to advance ethical AI research and innovation. They also emphasised on bilateral cooperation in digital infrastructure and defence technology. The two leaders also jointly addressed the India-France CEOs Forum. PM Modi visited the United States at the invitation of President Donald Trump, and it was the first visit after the start of Trump’s second term. The PM met Tulsi Gabbard, Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy. Trump and Modi announced plans to negotiate the first tranche of a mutually beneficial multi-sector bilateral trade agreement by the fall of 2025, as well as plans to finalise a new 10-year framework for the US-India major defence partnership from 2025 to 2035. Also Read: US, Israel, Europe waging a ‘total war’ on our country: Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian Mauritius (March 11–12, 2025) PM Modi attended the National Day celebrations of Mauritius as the chief guest during his visit to enhance the special and historical ties between India and the Indian Ocean state. MoUs for strengthening maritime security cooperation and economic collaboration were also inked on the trip. Thailand and Sri Lanka (April 3–6) The prime minister visited Thailand and Sri Lanka in April, reinforcing regional frameworks like BIMSTEC and strengthening ties with Sri Lanka in trade, defence, and energy cooperation. The visits emphasised India’s continued focus on “Neighbourhood First” policy. Also Read: Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters Saudi Arabia (April 22) PM Modi went on a state visit to Saudi Arabia, an important partner in energy security and regional geopolitics and held talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman focusing on strategic collaboration across energy, trade, and regional security issues. . Saudi Arabia remains central to India’s energy imports. The PM had to cut short his visit and head home because of the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir where 26 innocent civilians were killed. Cyprus, Canada, and Croatia (June 15–19) Cyprus PM Modi’s visit to Cyprus was the first to the country by an Indian PM in over 20 years. India and Cyprus endorsed a five-year Joint Action Plan (2025–29) to deepen cooperation across defence, counterterrorism, regional security, and technology sectors. Agreements were also signed for cooperation in financial services, cross-border UPI payments, and tourism enhancement. Canada

PM Modi’s foreign visits in 2025 were focussed on fostering economic cooperation, furthering security and defence ties, and positioning India as a leader of the Global South. The PM’s foreign policy aims have largely centred on reinforcing bilateral relations and shaping India’s global role.

Yearender 2025: PM Modi’s foreign visits redefine India’s global outreach and influence

Amid a raging debt crisis, Pakistan decided to sell a stake worth $1 billion in Fauji Foundation to the United Arab Emirates, along with a rollover possibility of debt worth $2 billion by the Gulf country. The deal is expected to provide much-needed respite to the cash-strapped country, &nbsp;looking to manage its current account deficit to meet conditions set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout package. Fauji Foundation, the multibillion-dollar conglomerate, one of the biggest in the country, was founded and run by the Pakistan Army.&nbsp;Pakistan Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday emphasised that if the deal with the UAE to acquire these stakes goes through, it will settle a liability of around $1 billion on March 31.&nbsp;“We are currently engaged with the UAE…regarding the rollover of $1 billion a few weeks ago. They will be acquiring some shares, and our liability will be eliminated. The shares are of the Fauji Foundation Group. After extensive meetings by the committee, it is taking the lead. We hope that this transaction will be completed by 31 March,” Dar said.&nbsp;According to the official data, Pakistan's total external debt stood at $91.8 billion till June 2025, while its total pubic debt adds up to approximately $286.8 billion. The size of Pakistan's economy is estimated at around $410 billion according to the IMF.&nbsp;Islamabad has raised nearly $12 billion via bilateral loans in recent years to keep the country floating. Dar accused previous governments of inaction on IMF programmes, which allowed Pakistan to arrive in such a situation.&nbsp;“I was right to say that Pakistan would not have taken $12 billion from the begging bowl if it had acted on the IMF programme. We would not have been able to balance our accounts, and the IMF was not willing to come on board. I am grateful that the UAE is also involved. I recognise their co-operation. Saudi Arabia provided $5 billion in support during this period. China supported $4 billion via a state-to-state deposit, and the UAE supported $3 billion,” said Dar. These announcements concerning the stake sale and a potential rollover of the $2 billion loan came after a meeting in Islamabad between Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who was on his second visit to the South Asian country in 2025. Pakistan is currently receiving IMF support under two programmes, a $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and a Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) worth about $1.3 billion, underscoring its continued reliance on international financial assistance.&nbsp;This support is part of a long-standing pattern. Since 1958, Pakistan has entered into 23 IMF programmes, repeatedly turning to the global lender to stabilise its economy. Despite successive bailouts, the South Asian nation has remained trapped in a cycle of balance-of-payments crises and recurring fiscal stress, prompting repeated IMF interventions over the decades.&nbsp;

Pakistan’s total external debt stood at $91.8 billion as of June 2025, while the International Monetary Fund estimates the size of the country’s economy at around $410 billion.

Amid a raging debt crisis, Pakistan decided to sell a stake worth $1 billion in Fauji Foundation to the United Arab Emirates, along with a rollover possibility of debt worth $2 billion by the Gulf country. The deal is expected to provide much-needed respite to the cash-strapped country, looking to manage its current account deficit to meet conditions set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a bailout package. Fauji Foundation, the multibillion-dollar conglomerate, one of the biggest in the country, was founded and run by the Pakistan Army. Pakistan Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday emphasised that if the deal with the UAE to acquire these stakes goes through, it will settle a liability of around $1 billion on March 31. “We are currently engaged with the UAE…regarding the rollover of $1 billion a few weeks ago. They will be acquiring some shares, and our liability will be eliminated. The shares are of the Fauji Foundation Group. After extensive meetings by the committee, it is taking the lead. We hope that this transaction will be completed by 31 March,” Dar said. According to the official data, Pakistan's total external debt stood at $91.8 billion till June 2025, while its total pubic debt adds up to approximately $286.8 billion. The size of Pakistan's economy is estimated at around $410 billion according to the IMF. Islamabad has raised nearly $12 billion via bilateral loans in recent years to keep the country floating. Dar accused previous governments of inaction on IMF programmes, which allowed Pakistan to arrive in such a situation. “I was right to say that Pakistan would not have taken $12 billion from the begging bowl if it had acted on the IMF programme. We would not have been able to balance our accounts, and the IMF was not willing to come on board. I am grateful that the UAE is also involved. I recognise their co-operation. Saudi Arabia provided $5 billion in support during this period. China supported $4 billion via a state-to-state deposit, and the UAE supported $3 billion,” said Dar. These announcements concerning the stake sale and a potential rollover of the $2 billion loan came after a meeting in Islamabad between Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who was on his second visit to the South Asian country in 2025. Pakistan is currently receiving IMF support under two programmes, a $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and a Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) worth about $1.3 billion, underscoring its continued reliance on international financial assistance. This support is part of a long-standing pattern. Since 1958, Pakistan has entered into 23 IMF programmes, repeatedly turning to the global lender to stabilise its economy. Despite successive bailouts, the South Asian nation has remained trapped in a cycle of balance-of-payments crises and recurring fiscal stress, prompting repeated IMF interventions over the decades.

Pakistan’s total external debt stood at $91.8 billion as of June 2025, while the International Monetary Fund estimates the size of the country’s economy at around $410 billion.

Amid spiralling debt crisis, Pakistan to sell $1bn Fauji Foundation stake to UAE

Despite the ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia agreed on Saturday (Dec 27), displaced people at a Thai university-turned-shelter, Kanlaya Somjettana, are reluctant to go home even after a truce halted weeks of border clashes with Cambodia, fearing the violence may not be over.She said some people forced to flee the fighting began returning home on Sunday, a day after the ceasefire was announced, but many evacuees on both sides of the border preferred waiting for an official word that it was safe.<h2>Lack of trust</h2>Some cited a lack of trust that the neighbouring country would respect the truce, after previous ones had been broken."I really hope this ceasefire will last long and we can return home," 21-year-old homemaker Kanlaya told AFP from the university campus in Thailand's Surin city."But I will not go back home as long as authorities do not confirm that it is safe," she said, adding that the evacuation centre was now less crowded, although hundreds remained there.On the Cambodian side, 35-year-old So Choeun said she expected to give birth within days and hoped to then take her baby home, about one kilometre (0.6 miles) from the border.But not yet, said the woman sheltering with family under makeshift tents at a Buddhist pagoda in Banteay Meanchey province."Despite the ceasefire, we dare not return home yet. We are still frightened," she told AFP."We will wait to see the situation for a few days, if it will stay calm."<h2>Day-old ceasefire holds</h2>Officials on both sides said the day-old ceasefire was holding on Sunday, but for most areas, there has been no all-clear notice just yet.The truce follows three weeks of renewed cross-border fighting that killed at least 47 people and displaced more than a million on both sides.A previous round in the decades-old conflict -- five days of fighting in July -- killed dozens before a truce was brokered, and then broken.Many of those displaced by the latest violence had evacuated in July, too.Rice and cassava farmer Saichon Wongpitak said she could not afford to wait any longer, planning to return to her home in Thailand's Sisaket province on Sunday afternoon."I talked to our neighbour who said there was no gunfire since yesterday," Saichon, 38, told AFP, adding that her family would evacuate again if necessary."We have fear... but we have jobs to do at home, we have cattle at home, we have our farm," she said.Saichon said she was glad to hear of the truce, but did not expect it to last long "before Cambodia starts a new round of fighting"."I live on the border and what I have learned is not to trust Cambodia," she said.<h2>‘They can fight again at any time’</h2>Under the truce, the two countries agreed to cease fire, freeze troop movements and allow civilians living in border areas to return home as soon as possible, while Thailand was to return 18 Cambodian soldiers captured in July within 72 hours.Kot Ngik, 43, from another camp for displaced people in Cambodia's Banteay Meanchey, said she was thankful for the truce since it may allow children to soon return to school.But "we don't trust the Thai military yet", she said."At this point, we are not sure about the situation. They can fight again at any time."While many evacuees, including Kot Ngik, were still too fearful to leave shelters, So Choeun said the ceasefire at least offered some hope."Yesterday morning, I could hear loud bangs, but I have not heard it since 12:00 pm yesterday," she said.“This is a good sign.”

The truce follows three weeks of renewed cross-border fighting that killed at least 47 people and displaced more than a million on both sides.

Despite the ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia agreed on Saturday (Dec 27), displaced people at a Thai university-turned-shelter, Kanlaya Somjettana, are reluctant to go home even after a truce halted weeks of border clashes with Cambodia, fearing the violence may not be over. She said some people forced to flee the fighting began returning home on Sunday, a day after the ceasefire was announced, but many evacuees on both sides of the border preferred waiting for an official word that it was safe. Lack of trust Some cited a lack of trust that the neighbouring country would respect the truce, after previous ones had been broken. "I really hope this ceasefire will last long and we can return home," 21-year-old homemaker Kanlaya told AFP from the university campus in Thailand's Surin city. "But I will not go back home as long as authorities do not confirm that it is safe," she said, adding that the evacuation centre was now less crowded, although hundreds remained there. On the Cambodian side, 35-year-old So Choeun said she expected to give birth within days and hoped to then take her baby home, about one kilometre (0.6 miles) from the border. But not yet, said the woman sheltering with family under makeshift tents at a Buddhist pagoda in Banteay Meanchey province. "Despite the ceasefire, we dare not return home yet. We are still frightened," she told AFP. "We will wait to see the situation for a few days, if it will stay calm." Day-old ceasefire holds Officials on both sides said the day-old ceasefire was holding on Sunday, but for most areas, there has been no all-clear notice just yet. The truce follows three weeks of renewed cross-border fighting that killed at least 47 people and displaced more than a million on both sides. A previous round in the decades-old conflict -- five days of fighting in July -- killed dozens before a truce was brokered, and then broken. Many of those displaced by the latest violence had evacuated in July, too. Rice and cassava farmer Saichon Wongpitak said she could not afford to wait any longer, planning to return to her home in Thailand's Sisaket province on Sunday afternoon. "I talked to our neighbour who said there was no gunfire since yesterday," Saichon, 38, told AFP, adding that her family would evacuate again if necessary. "We have fear... but we have jobs to do at home, we have cattle at home, we have our farm," she said. Saichon said she was glad to hear of the truce, but did not expect it to last long "before Cambodia starts a new round of fighting". "I live on the border and what I have learned is not to trust Cambodia," she said. ‘They can fight again at any time’ Under the truce, the two countries agreed to cease fire, freeze troop movements and allow civilians living in border areas to return home as soon as possible, while Thailand was to return 18 Cambodian soldiers captured in July within 72 hours. Kot Ngik, 43, from another camp for displaced people in Cambodia's Banteay Meanchey, said she was thankful for the truce since it may allow children to soon return to school. But "we don't trust the Thai military yet", she said. "At this point, we are not sure about the situation. They can fight again at any time." While many evacuees, including Kot Ngik, were still too fearful to leave shelters, So Choeun said the ceasefire at least offered some hope. "Yesterday morning, I could hear loud bangs, but I have not heard it since 12:00 pm yesterday," she said. “This is a good sign.”

The truce follows three weeks of renewed cross-border fighting that killed at least 47 people and displaced more than a million on both sides.

Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire: Locals fear returning home despite border truce

In an update on the health of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, her personal physician has said that she is in an "extremely critical" condition. Zia, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairman is undergoing treatment at Dhaka's Evercare Hospital since November 23. She has been on ventilator support since December 11. In a statement, Dr AZM Zahid said, "It cannot be said that her condition has improved. She is passing through an extremely critical phase. If, by Allah’s mercy, she can get through this critical period, we may hear something positive." Dr AZM Zahid also said that Zia is on ventilator support “to give rest to her lungs and other vital organs.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-extremists-are-using-yunus-sheikh-hasina-s-big-statement-amid-violent-unrest-in-bangladesh-killing-of-minorities-1766905009350">'Extremists are using Yunus...': Sheikh Hasina's BIG statement amid violent unrest in Bangladesh, killing of minorities</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman has returned to Bangladesh on Dec 25 after 17 years in self-imposed exile. Rahman arrived in Dhaka with his wife Dr Zubaid, daughter Zaima and pet cat Zeebu. The BNP is widely seen as an election frontrunner. Addressing the supporters after he returned to Bangladesh, Tarique pitched for a new Bangladesh that is united. He paid tributes to Osman Hadi and called 2024 July uprising against Hasina and her government as “Liberation of Bangladesh.” Referring to Martin Luther's 'I have a dream' speech, Rahman said, "I have a plan, for the people of my country." "We need to safeguard peace in Bangladesh at any cost. Be it men, women, or children, upholding the peace and dignity of Bangladesh should always be the first priority. We will all work together and build our desired Bangladesh," said Rahman. &nbsp;Soon after the speech, he visited his mother at Evercare Hospital in Bashundhara.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bangladesh-home-ministry-official-resigns-tariq-rahman-returns-amid-pressure-on-yunus-what-s-latest-from-bangladesh-1766652351022">Bangladesh Home ministry official resigns, Tariq Rahman returns amid pressure on Yunus — What's latest from Bangladesh</a><h2>Bangladesh in chaos</h2>Bangladesh is engulfed in renewed clashes after the killing of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Violence erupted in several cities, with his party Inqilab Moncho blaming Yunus-led government for his murder. Two Hindu men, Dipu Chandra Das and Amrit Mondal, have also been killed in the violence. Hadi, the founder of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University, was known for his anti-India views and was reportedly part of 2024 student uprising that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina.

Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia is in an “extremely critical” condition and on ventilator support at Dhaka’s Evercare Hospital, her physician said. Her health update comes amid political turmoil, Tarique Rahman’s return, and renewed violence across Bangladesh.

In an update on the health of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, her personal physician has said that she is in an "extremely critical" condition. Zia, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairman is undergoing treatment at Dhaka's Evercare Hospital since November 23. She has been on ventilator support since December 11. In a statement, Dr AZM Zahid said, "It cannot be said that her condition has improved. She is passing through an extremely critical phase. If, by Allah’s mercy, she can get through this critical period, we may hear something positive." Dr AZM Zahid also said that Zia is on ventilator support “to give rest to her lungs and other vital organs.” Also Read: 'Extremists are using Yunus...': Sheikh Hasina's BIG statement amid violent unrest in Bangladesh, killing of minorities Meanwhile, Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman has returned to Bangladesh on Dec 25 after 17 years in self-imposed exile. Rahman arrived in Dhaka with his wife Dr Zubaid, daughter Zaima and pet cat Zeebu. The BNP is widely seen as an election frontrunner. Addressing the supporters after he returned to Bangladesh, Tarique pitched for a new Bangladesh that is united. He paid tributes to Osman Hadi and called 2024 July uprising against Hasina and her government as “Liberation of Bangladesh.” Referring to Martin Luther's 'I have a dream' speech, Rahman said, "I have a plan, for the people of my country." "We need to safeguard peace in Bangladesh at any cost. Be it men, women, or children, upholding the peace and dignity of Bangladesh should always be the first priority. We will all work together and build our desired Bangladesh," said Rahman. Soon after the speech, he visited his mother at Evercare Hospital in Bashundhara. Also Read: Bangladesh Home ministry official resigns, Tariq Rahman returns amid pressure on Yunus — What's latest from Bangladesh Bangladesh in chaos Bangladesh is engulfed in renewed clashes after the killing of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Violence erupted in several cities, with his party Inqilab Moncho blaming Yunus-led government for his murder. Two Hindu men, Dipu Chandra Das and Amrit Mondal, have also been killed in the violence. Hadi, the founder of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University, was known for his anti-India views and was reportedly part of 2024 student uprising that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina.

Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia is in an “extremely critical” condition and on ventilator support at Dhaka’s Evercare Hospital, her physician said. Her health update comes amid political turmoil, Tarique Rahman’s return, and renewed violence across Bangladesh.

Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia ‘extremely critical’, son Tarique Rahman visits her in hospital

India’s military action after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack set off alarms at the highest levels of the leadership in Pakistan, including President Asif Ali Zardari who has revealed that he was advised to take shelter in a bunker when the strikes started during the escalation in May. Speaking at a public event on Saturday, Zardari said his Military Secretary warned him that war had begun as Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes under Operation Sindoor, launched in retaliation to the killing of 26 civilians in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam. “My Military Secretary came to me and said, ‘Sir, the war has started. Let’s go to the bunkers,’” Zardari said, adding that he refused to follow his secretary’s advice.&nbsp;India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting Pakistani military installations after earlier operations struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Officials described the strikes as precise and limited, aimed at destroying terror infrastructure and deterring further attacks. Irked by the precision strikes, Pakistan also intensified cross-border shelling. The situation raised fears of a wider military confrontation between the two countries.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-extremists-are-using-yunus-sheikh-hasina-s-big-statement-amid-violent-unrest-in-bangladesh-killing-of-minorities-1766905009350">'Extremists are using Yunus...': Sheikh Hasina's BIG statement amid violent unrest in Bangladesh, killing of minorities</a>&nbsp;Zardari’s comment is a rare public acknowledgement of the concern within Pakistan’s top leadership about their own security during the crisis.&nbsp;The hostilities eased after Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations contacted his Indian counterpart to propose a ceasefire. India accepted the proposal.The outreach from the Pakistani side was later confirmed by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who said both countries agreed to stop all military operations on land, at sea and in the air.The May strikes marked one of the most serious military confrontations between India and Pakistan in recent years before the ceasefire took effect.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-op-sindoor-maha-kumbh-to-shubhanshu-shukla-s-space-mission-pm-modi-hails-india-s-achievements-in-2025-1766911218309">From Op Sindoor, Maha Kumbh to Shubhanshu Shukla’s space mission: PM Modi hails India’s achievements in 2025</a><h2>‘Even Asim Munir was inside the bunker when India attacked’</h2>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Chandigarh: Lt Gen (Retd) KJS Dhillon says, &quot;Asif Ali Zardari is Mr 10% of Pakistan. He has a black past and is the most corrupt politician. That&#39;s why they have put him in a corner and made him a President who has no say... Even Asim Munir was inside the bunker when… <a href="https://t.co/ScWfzBgkpz">https://t.co/ScWfzBgkpz</a> <a href="https://t.co/kEpUdIyJ5i">pic.twitter.com/kEpUdIyJ5i</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2005187380882645370?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Reacting to Zardari’s statement, Lt Gen (Retd) KJS Dhillon told ANI, “Asif Ali Zardari is Mr 10% of Pakistan. He has a black past and is the most corrupt politician. That’s why they have put him in a corner and made him a President who has no say... Even Asim Munir was inside the bunker when India attacked. All the political leadership, all the military commanders, were in the bunkers. Only their soldiers were fighting it out, and they got killed. Even this is a lie that he knew it 4 days in advance. If they knew it four days in advance, why couldn’t they stop a single missile from hitting nine targets? If a four-day warning was given to the military and they could do nothing, it only shows their military is useless...”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-israel-europe-waging-a-total-war-on-our-country-iran-president-masoud-pezeshkian-1766857358756">US, Israel, Europe waging a ‘total war’ on our country: Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian</a>

Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari’s comment is a rare public acknowledgement of the concern within Pakistan’s top leadership about their own security during the military escalation after Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes under Operation Sindoor in May.

India’s military action after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack set off alarms at the highest levels of the leadership in Pakistan, including President Asif Ali Zardari who has revealed that he was advised to take shelter in a bunker when the strikes started during the escalation in May. Speaking at a public event on Saturday, Zardari said his Military Secretary warned him that war had begun as Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes under Operation Sindoor, launched in retaliation to the killing of 26 civilians in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam. “My Military Secretary came to me and said, ‘Sir, the war has started. Let’s go to the bunkers,’” Zardari said, adding that he refused to follow his secretary’s advice. India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting Pakistani military installations after earlier operations struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Officials described the strikes as precise and limited, aimed at destroying terror infrastructure and deterring further attacks. Irked by the precision strikes, Pakistan also intensified cross-border shelling. The situation raised fears of a wider military confrontation between the two countries. Also Read: 'Extremists are using Yunus...': Sheikh Hasina's BIG statement amid violent unrest in Bangladesh, killing of minorities Zardari’s comment is a rare public acknowledgement of the concern within Pakistan’s top leadership about their own security during the crisis. The hostilities eased after Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations contacted his Indian counterpart to propose a ceasefire. India accepted the proposal. The outreach from the Pakistani side was later confirmed by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who said both countries agreed to stop all military operations on land, at sea and in the air. The May strikes marked one of the most serious military confrontations between India and Pakistan in recent years before the ceasefire took effect. Also Read: From Op Sindoor, Maha Kumbh to Shubhanshu Shukla’s space mission: PM Modi hails India’s achievements in 2025 ‘Even Asim Munir was inside the bunker when India attacked’

Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari’s comment is a rare public acknowledgement of the concern within Pakistan’s top leadership about their own security during the military escalation after Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes under Operation Sindoor in May.

Pak President Zardari was told to rush inside bunker when Operation Sindoor strikes started

Amid unrest in Bangladesh, members of Hindu communities protested in London on Saturday (Dec 28) demanding justice for minorities. The protesters gathered outside Bangladesh High Commission, played Bangladeshi national anthem 'Amar Shonar Bangla' and demanded end of violence against minorities. They also demanded accountability from Muhammad Yunus-led Bangladesh interim government over killing of two Hindu men in the violence that erupted after the murder of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. The protesters included members from Bengali Hindu Adarsha Sangha (BHAS) UK under the banner 'Justice for Hindus,' who chanted 'Hanuman Chalisa' and raised slogans of 'Hindu Lives Matter' during the protest.&nbsp;Speaking to ANI, "Our enthusiastic and respectful audience included students, professionals, parents with children, elderly activists and interfaith leaders, all united in urging protection of minority rights and accountability for human rights abuses," BHAS UK said in a statement. “The minority communities of Bangladesh are facing long-standing concerns over discrimination, violence, murder and demographic decline,” BHAS UK statement added.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Indian and Bangladeshi Hindu communities in London protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in London against the killings of Hindus in Bangladesh <a href="https://t.co/1mhdiaRi1j">pic.twitter.com/1mhdiaRi1j</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2004934377348964694?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bangladesh-home-ministry-official-resigns-tariq-rahman-returns-amid-pressure-on-yunus-what-s-latest-from-bangladesh-1766652351022">Bangladesh Home ministry official resigns, Tariq Rahman returns amid pressure on Yunus — What's latest from Bangladesh</a><h2>Bangladesh in chaos</h2>Bangladesh is engulfed in renewed clashes after the killing of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Violence erupted in several cities, with his party Inqilab Moncho blaming Yunus-led government for his murder. Two Hindu men, Dipu Chandra Das and Amrit Mondal, have also been killed in the violence. Hadi, the founder of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University, was known for his anti-India views and was reportedly part of 2024 student uprising that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khaleda-zia-s-son-tarique-rahman-returns-to-bangladesh-after-17-years-in-exile-gets-grand-welcome-1766643942201">Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman returns to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile, gets grand welcome</a>&nbsp;Elections are scheduled in February 2026 in Bangladesh. Former PM Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman has returned to the country after 17 years in self-imposed exile. Rahman arrived in Dhaka on Dec 25 with his wife Dr Zubaid, daughter Zaima and pet cat Zeebu. The BNP is widely seen as an election frontrunner. His election pitch for a united Bangladesh comes amid pressure on Yunus government for killing of Hadi. Sheikh Hasina's Awami League has boycotted the polls.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-bangladesh-summon-envoys-as-diplomatic-tensions-escalate-1766502719204">India and Bangladesh summon envoys as diplomatic tensions escalate</a>

Hindu groups protested outside the Bangladesh High Commission in London, demanding protection of minorities and accountability from the Yunus-led interim government as violence spreads across Bangladesh ahead of the 2026 elections.

Amid unrest in Bangladesh, members of Hindu communities protested in London on Saturday (Dec 28) demanding justice for minorities. The protesters gathered outside Bangladesh High Commission, played Bangladeshi national anthem 'Amar Shonar Bangla' and demanded end of violence against minorities. They also demanded accountability from Muhammad Yunus-led Bangladesh interim government over killing of two Hindu men in the violence that erupted after the murder of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. The protesters included members from Bengali Hindu Adarsha Sangha (BHAS) UK under the banner 'Justice for Hindus,' who chanted 'Hanuman Chalisa' and raised slogans of 'Hindu Lives Matter' during the protest. Speaking to ANI, "Our enthusiastic and respectful audience included students, professionals, parents with children, elderly activists and interfaith leaders, all united in urging protection of minority rights and accountability for human rights abuses," BHAS UK said in a statement. “The minority communities of Bangladesh are facing long-standing concerns over discrimination, violence, murder and demographic decline,” BHAS UK statement added.

Hindu groups protested outside the Bangladesh High Commission in London, demanding protection of minorities and accountability from the Yunus-led interim government as violence spreads across Bangladesh ahead of the 2026 elections.

'Hindu lives matter' slogans and Hanuman Chalisa: Massive protest in London against violence on minorities in Bangladesh - WATCH

The Pakistan government has once again validated the destruction caused to its military infrastructure during Operation Sindoor carried out by India in May this year in retaliation of the Terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists in April. Pakistan's Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, during the year-end press briefing on Saturday, confirmed that India had targeted its Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi's Chakala,&nbsp;He also spoke about the damage caused to its military installation and injuries caused to personnel during the strike.&nbsp;He stated that India had sent several drones to attack the air base of which all were struck down except for one that hit the base and caused damage.&nbsp;"They (India) send drones towards Pakistan. In 36 hours, at least 80 drones were sent... We were able to intercept 79 drones out of 80, and only one drone damaged a military installation and personnel were also injured in the attack," said Foreign Minister Dar.<h2>What India claimed</h2>The Indian Defence Forces had disclosed after Operation Sindoor that the Nur Khan Airbase, located in Rawalpindi, was one of the key military installations targeted during their retaliatory strikes against Pakistan. These strikes were launched in response to a series of drone and missile attacks carried out by Pakistan on several Indian bordering states, after India hit terror infrastructure inside Pakistan.&nbsp;India had struck terror sites of Pakistan-based terror group The Resistance Front (TRF) that claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir. In its strike, India also conducted coordinated airstrikes on multiple other Pakistani military bases to weaken Pakistan’s operational capabilities and send a strong message of deterrence. These targeted bases included Rafiqui, Murid, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur, and Chunian — all strategically important military sites housing critical infrastructure and personnel. The airbases at Skardu, Bholari, Jacobabad, and Sargodha were reported to have suffered extensive damage from the strikes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, during the year-end press briefing on Saturday, confirmed that India had targeted its Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi

The Pakistan government has once again validated the destruction caused to its military infrastructure during Operation Sindoor carried out by India in May this year in retaliation of the Terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists in April. Pakistan's Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, during the year-end press briefing on Saturday, confirmed that India had targeted its Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi's Chakala, He also spoke about the damage caused to its military installation and injuries caused to personnel during the strike. He stated that India had sent several drones to attack the air base of which all were struck down except for one that hit the base and caused damage. "They (India) send drones towards Pakistan. In 36 hours, at least 80 drones were sent... We were able to intercept 79 drones out of 80, and only one drone damaged a military installation and personnel were also injured in the attack," said Foreign Minister Dar. What India claimed The Indian Defence Forces had disclosed after Operation Sindoor that the Nur Khan Airbase, located in Rawalpindi, was one of the key military installations targeted during their retaliatory strikes against Pakistan. These strikes were launched in response to a series of drone and missile attacks carried out by Pakistan on several Indian bordering states, after India hit terror infrastructure inside Pakistan. India had struck terror sites of Pakistan-based terror group The Resistance Front (TRF) that claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir. In its strike, India also conducted coordinated airstrikes on multiple other Pakistani military bases to weaken Pakistan’s operational capabilities and send a strong message of deterrence. These targeted bases included Rafiqui, Murid, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur, and Chunian — all strategically important military sites housing critical infrastructure and personnel. The airbases at Skardu, Bholari, Jacobabad, and Sargodha were reported to have suffered extensive damage from the strikes.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, during the year-end press briefing on Saturday, confirmed that India had targeted its Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi.

India sent 80 drones to strike Nur Khan Air Base during Operation Sindoor, says Pakistan Foreign Minister

Amid massive chaos and unrest in Bangladesh, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that the student uprising that led to her ouster was orchestrated insurrection by radicals. Hasina slammed Bangladesh interim leader Muhammad Yunus and said that he is glorifying “terrorists” who led bloodshed in 2024. She also blamed Yunus of radicalising institutions domestically. Her statement comes amid unrest in Bangladesh and attack on minority Hindus.&nbsp; Speaking to News 18, Hasina said that the 2014 student uprising was "an orchestrated insurrection by radicals rather than a peaceful student movement,” adding that it turned into “a violent mob” that burned police stations and destroyed state infrastructure. She also added, "In the initial days, we allowed students to protest freely and accepted their demands.” She said that leaving Bangladesh was to prevent bloodshed, “It was not an easy decision to leave… but it was a decision I took to minimise any further loss of life.” Hasina insisted that Bangladesh must restore democracy, ”For me to return, Bangladesh must restore constitutional governance and the rule of law,” including lifting “the unlawful ban on the Awami League” and holding “genuinely free elections.” Doubling down his attack on Yunus, Hasina said that Yunus is not taking accountability, “Yunus immediately dissolved this inquiry, released convicted terrorists, and granted blanket immunity to those he now glorifies as ‘July warriors.' He has placed extremists in cabinet positions. You cannot claim democratic legitimacy while banning the party elected nine times by the people." Hasina also warned that extremists are using Yunus “to project an acceptable international face while they radicalise our institutions domestically.” She also criticised closer ties with Islamabad, saying Yunus’s approach shows “a desperate search for any international validation.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/bangladesh-home-ministry-official-resigns-tariq-rahman-returns-amid-pressure-on-yunus-what-s-latest-from-bangladesh-1766652351022">Bangladesh Home ministry official resigns, Tariq Rahman returns amid pressure on Yunus — What's latest from Bangladesh</a><h2>Bangladesh in chaos</h2>Bangladesh is engulfed in renewed clashes after the killing of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Violence erupted in several cities, with his party Inqilab Moncho blaming Yunus-led government for his murder. Two Hindu men, Dipu Chandra Das and Amrit Mondal, have also been killed in the violence. Hadi, the founder of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University, was known for his anti-India views and was reportedly part of 2024 student uprising that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khaleda-zia-s-son-tarique-rahman-returns-to-bangladesh-after-17-years-in-exile-gets-grand-welcome-1766643942201">Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman returns to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile, gets grand welcome</a>&nbsp;Elections are scheduled in February 2026 in Bangladesh. Former PM Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman has returned to the country &nbsp;after 17 years in self-imposed exile. Rahman arrived in Dhaka on Dec 25 with his wife Dr Zubaid, daughter Zaima and pet cat Zeebu. The BNP is widely seen as an election frontrunner. His election pitch for a united Bangladesh comes amid pressure on Yunus government for killing of Hadi. Sheikh Hasina's Awami League has boycotted the polls.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-bangladesh-summon-envoys-as-diplomatic-tensions-escalate-1766502719204">India and Bangladesh summon envoys as diplomatic tensions escalate</a>

Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina has said that the 2024 unrest was a radical-led insurrection, not a student movement. She has once again accused the Yunus-led interim regime of lacking legitimacy, empowering extremists, dismantling probes, banning Awami League, and endangering democracy.

Amid massive chaos and unrest in Bangladesh, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that the student uprising that led to her ouster was orchestrated insurrection by radicals. Hasina slammed Bangladesh interim leader Muhammad Yunus and said that he is glorifying “terrorists” who led bloodshed in 2024. She also blamed Yunus of radicalising institutions domestically. Her statement comes amid unrest in Bangladesh and attack on minority Hindus. Speaking to News 18, Hasina said that the 2014 student uprising was "an orchestrated insurrection by radicals rather than a peaceful student movement,” adding that it turned into “a violent mob” that burned police stations and destroyed state infrastructure. She also added, "In the initial days, we allowed students to protest freely and accepted their demands.” She said that leaving Bangladesh was to prevent bloodshed, “It was not an easy decision to leave… but it was a decision I took to minimise any further loss of life.” Hasina insisted that Bangladesh must restore democracy, ”For me to return, Bangladesh must restore constitutional governance and the rule of law,” including lifting “the unlawful ban on the Awami League” and holding “genuinely free elections.” Doubling down his attack on Yunus, Hasina said that Yunus is not taking accountability, “Yunus immediately dissolved this inquiry, released convicted terrorists, and granted blanket immunity to those he now glorifies as ‘July warriors.' He has placed extremists in cabinet positions. You cannot claim democratic legitimacy while banning the party elected nine times by the people." Hasina also warned that extremists are using Yunus “to project an acceptable international face while they radicalise our institutions domestically.” She also criticised closer ties with Islamabad, saying Yunus’s approach shows “a desperate search for any international validation.” Also Read: Bangladesh Home ministry official resigns, Tariq Rahman returns amid pressure on Yunus — What's latest from Bangladesh Bangladesh in chaos Bangladesh is engulfed in renewed clashes after the killing of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Violence erupted in several cities, with his party Inqilab Moncho blaming Yunus-led government for his murder. Two Hindu men, Dipu Chandra Das and Amrit Mondal, have also been killed in the violence. Hadi, the founder of Inqilab Mancha, a radical student group of Dhaka University, was known for his anti-India views and was reportedly part of 2024 student uprising that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. Also Read: Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman returns to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile, gets grand welcome Elections are scheduled in February 2026 in Bangladesh. Former PM Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman has returned to the country after 17 years in self-imposed exile. Rahman arrived in Dhaka on Dec 25 with his wife Dr Zubaid, daughter Zaima and pet cat Zeebu. The BNP is widely seen as an election frontrunner. His election pitch for a united Bangladesh comes amid pressure on Yunus government for killing of Hadi. Sheikh Hasina's Awami League has boycotted the polls. Also Read: India and Bangladesh summon envoys as diplomatic tensions escalate

Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina has said that the 2024 unrest was a radical-led insurrection, not a student movement. She has once again accused the Yunus-led interim regime of lacking legitimacy, empowering extremists, dismantling probes, banning Awami League, and endangering democracy.

'Extremists are using Yunus...': Sheikh Hasina's BIG statement amid violent unrest in Bangladesh, killing of minorities

India has delivered a consignment of ambulances to Afghanistan, fulfilling an earlier commitment made during high-level talks in New Delhi. The delivery follows an announcement in October, when India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in the Indian capital Delhi. During the meeting, Mr Jaishankar described the gift as a "gesture of goodwill". "A gift of 20 ambulances is a gesture of goodwill, and I would like to handover 5 of them to you personally as a symbolic step," Mr Jaishankar said at the time. "India will also provide MRI and CT scan machines to Afghan hospitals and deliver vaccines for immunisation and cancer medicines. We have also supplied drug rehabilitation materials through UNODC and are open to doing more."The delivery of the ambulances is part of broader India-Afghanistan healthcare cooperation. Projects include establishing a Thalassemia Centre, a Modern Diagnostic Centre, and replacing the heating system at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health (IGICH) in Kabul. India has also pledged to build a 30-bed hospital in Kabul's Bagrami district, an Oncology Centre, a Trauma Centre in the capital, and five Maternity Health Clinics in the provinces of Paktika, Khost, and Paktia.Around 75 prosthetic limbs have been fitted to Afghan nationals, a programme that has received appreciation from Afghan authorities. Earlier this month, Afghan Public Health Minister Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali visited India, where he held talks with his Indian counterpart. Discussions focused on long-term medicine supplies, capacity-building, and infrastructure support. A symbolic handover of cancer medicines and vaccines occurred, with larger consignments, including a 128-slice CT scanner, set to follow.India continues to provide medical visas for Afghans for treatment in Indian hospitals. Speaking to WION, the health minister said, "Afghans have been regularly travelling to India for medical treatment for a long time. Medical visas have been a vital humanitarian channel." The Islamic Emirates of Afghanistan administration has been focusing on tertiary healthcare projects, including specialised hospitals, diagnostic centres, and cancer treatment facilities. Both countries discussed forming a Joint Working Group on Health, establishing cancer treatment facilities in Afghanistan, and sending Indian medical teams for capacity-building programmes for Afghan doctors.<h2>Reducing reliance on Pakistan</h2>The latest delivery reinforces New Delhi's commitment to Afghanistan's welfare. Development comes as Afghanistan is trying to reduce reliance on neighbouring Pakistan, after the country attacked Kabul, border areas killing civilians, including children, women and cricketers. In November 2025, the Afghan government announced a complete ban on importing pharmaceutical products from Pakistan, citing poor quality. A three-month transition period was given for importers to settle debts with Pakistani suppliers and shift to alternative sources.

The delivery of the ambulances is part of broader India-Afghanistan healthcare cooperation. Projects include establishing a Thalassemia Centre, a Modern Diagnostic Centre, and replacing the heating system at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health (IGICH) in Kabul.

India has delivered a consignment of ambulances to Afghanistan, fulfilling an earlier commitment made during high-level talks in New Delhi. The delivery follows an announcement in October, when India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Afghan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in the Indian capital Delhi. During the meeting, Mr Jaishankar described the gift as a "gesture of goodwill". "A gift of 20 ambulances is a gesture of goodwill, and I would like to handover 5 of them to you personally as a symbolic step," Mr Jaishankar said at the time. "India will also provide MRI and CT scan machines to Afghan hospitals and deliver vaccines for immunisation and cancer medicines. We have also supplied drug rehabilitation materials through UNODC and are open to doing more." The delivery of the ambulances is part of broader India-Afghanistan healthcare cooperation. Projects include establishing a Thalassemia Centre, a Modern Diagnostic Centre, and replacing the heating system at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health (IGICH) in Kabul. India has also pledged to build a 30-bed hospital in Kabul's Bagrami district, an Oncology Centre, a Trauma Centre in the capital, and five Maternity Health Clinics in the provinces of Paktika, Khost, and Paktia. Around 75 prosthetic limbs have been fitted to Afghan nationals, a programme that has received appreciation from Afghan authorities. Earlier this month, Afghan Public Health Minister Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali visited India, where he held talks with his Indian counterpart. Discussions focused on long-term medicine supplies, capacity-building, and infrastructure support. A symbolic handover of cancer medicines and vaccines occurred, with larger consignments, including a 128-slice CT scanner, set to follow. India continues to provide medical visas for Afghans for treatment in Indian hospitals. Speaking to WION, the health minister said, "Afghans have been regularly travelling to India for medical treatment for a long time. Medical visas have been a vital humanitarian channel." The Islamic Emirates of Afghanistan administration has been focusing on tertiary healthcare projects, including specialised hospitals, diagnostic centres, and cancer treatment facilities. Both countries discussed forming a Joint Working Group on Health, establishing cancer treatment facilities in Afghanistan, and sending Indian medical teams for capacity-building programmes for Afghan doctors. Reducing reliance on Pakistan The latest delivery reinforces New Delhi's commitment to Afghanistan's welfare. Development comes as Afghanistan is trying to reduce reliance on neighbouring Pakistan, after the country attacked Kabul, border areas killing civilians, including children, women and cricketers. In November 2025, the Afghan government announced a complete ban on importing pharmaceutical products from Pakistan, citing poor quality. A three-month transition period was given for importers to settle debts with Pakistani suppliers and shift to alternative sources.

The delivery of the ambulances is part of broader India-Afghanistan healthcare cooperation. Projects include establishing a Thalassemia Centre, a Modern Diagnostic Centre, and replacing the heating system at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health (IGICH) in Kabul.

India delivers ambulances to Afghanistan as health care cooperation grows

The Government of India, in a statement, said that Saudi Arabia recorded the highest number of deportations of Indian nationals in 2025 due to strict enforcement of immigration and labour laws, including action against visa overstays, illegal employment and absconding workers. This comes amid US President Donald Trump’s renewed push against illegal immigration, including a crackdown on undocumented Indian nationals and stricter deportation measures. According to the Ministry of External Affairs data, tabled in the Rajya Sabha during the Winter Session, over 24,600 Indians were deported from 81 countries in 2025, &nbsp;with Saudi Arabia recording the highest number of deportation, while the US only coming second. Other countries that saw a significant number of deportations of Indians include Myanmar (1,591), United Arab Emirates (1,469), Bahrain (764), Malaysia (1,485), Thailand (481), and Cambodia (305). The statement also said that deportation of Indian students was the highest from the UK (170), followed by Australia (114), Russia (82) and the US (45).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-deport-every-indian-american-journalist-calls-for-mass-deportation-and-threatens-violent-attack-against-indians-1766778013685">‘Deport Every Indian’: American journalist calls for mass deportation and threatens violent attack against Indians</a>&nbsp;In a written reply to a question on December 18, Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, said that according to the Indian Mission in Riyadh, approximately 7,019 deportations from Saudi Arabia, was recorded in 2025. In 2024, 9,206 deportations were recorded from Saudi Arabia. Between 2021 to 2023, 30,650 Indians were deported from Saudi Arabia. Kirti Vardhan Singh also quoted data from the US, and said that between 2021 to 2023, as many as 2,284 deportations were recorded. However, in 2024, 1,368 deportations were recorded from the US in 2024 and 3,414 Indians were deported this year so far.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-best-gift-an-illegal-alien-can-give-themselves-trump-admin-offers-3-000-cash-paid-travel-for-self-deportation-1766506962183">‘Best gift an illegal alien can give themselves’: Trump admin offers $3,000 cash, paid travel for self deportation</a>&nbsp;From overstaying beyond visa validity to working without valid work permits, the MEA outlined several reasons behind the high deportation figures. It also said that other reasons for deportation are absconding from employers to violations of local labour laws. The government, further added that it accords “utmost priority to the safety, security and well-being of Indian nationals abroad.” &nbsp;It said that the government, in order curb illegal migration and fraud has issued advisories against fake job rackets, strengthened the e-Migrate portal, activated 247 Mission helplines, set up the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), among other things

Over 24,600 Indians were deported from 81 countries in 2025, MEA told Rajya Sabha. Saudi Arabia led with over 11,000 deportations, ahead of the US. Reasons include visa overstays, illegal work and labour law violations.


The Government of India, in a statement, said that Saudi Arabia recorded the highest number of deportations of Indian nationals in 2025 due to strict enforcement of immigration and labour laws, including action against visa overstays, illegal employment and absconding workers. This comes amid US President Donald Trump’s renewed push against illegal immigration, including a crackdown on undocumented Indian nationals and stricter deportation measures. According to the Ministry of External Affairs data, tabled in the Rajya Sabha during the Winter Session, over 24,600 Indians were deported from 81 countries in 2025, with Saudi Arabia recording the highest number of deportation, while the US only coming second. Other countries that saw a significant number of deportations of Indians include Myanmar (1,591), United Arab Emirates (1,469), Bahrain (764), Malaysia (1,485), Thailand (481), and Cambodia (305). The statement also said that deportation of Indian students was the highest from the UK (170), followed by Australia (114), Russia (82) and the US (45). Also Read: ‘Deport Every Indian’: American journalist calls for mass deportation and threatens violent attack against Indians In a written reply to a question on December 18, Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, said that according to the Indian Mission in Riyadh, approximately 7,019 deportations from Saudi Arabia, was recorded in 2025. In 2024, 9,206 deportations were recorded from Saudi Arabia. Between 2021 to 2023, 30,650 Indians were deported from Saudi Arabia. Kirti Vardhan Singh also quoted data from the US, and said that between 2021 to 2023, as many as 2,284 deportations were recorded. However, in 2024, 1,368 deportations were recorded from the US in 2024 and 3,414 Indians were deported this year so far. Also Read: ‘Best gift an illegal alien can give themselves’: Trump admin offers $3,000 cash, paid travel for self deportation From overstaying beyond visa validity to working without valid work permits, the MEA outlined several reasons behind the high deportation figures. It also said that other reasons for deportation are absconding from employers to violations of local labour laws. The government, further added that it accords “utmost priority to the safety, security and well-being of Indian nationals abroad.” It said that the government, in order curb illegal migration and fraud has issued advisories against fake job rackets, strengthened the e-Migrate portal, activated 247 Mission helplines, set up the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), among other things

Over 24,600 Indians were deported from 81 countries in 2025, MEA told Rajya Sabha. Saudi Arabia led with over 11,000 deportations, ahead of the US. Reasons include visa overstays, illegal work and labour law violations.

Which country deported most Indians this year? Despite Trump's push, it's not US

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (Dec 27) warned that if Ukraine does not accept the peace talks, Moscwo achieve its goals by force if Kyiv. He added that Ukraine was in no hurry to end the ongoing conflict by peaceful means. The Russian leader’s remarks come a day earlier than talks are scheduled between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump.“If the Kyiv authorities do not want to resolve the matter peacefully, we will accomplish all the tasks before us in the course of the special military operation by military means,” Putin was quoted as saying by the TASS News Agency.

The Russian leader’s remarks come a day earlier than talks are scheduled between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday (Dec 27) warned that if Ukraine does not accept the peace talks, Moscwo achieve its goals by force if Kyiv. He added that Ukraine was in no hurry to end the ongoing conflict by peaceful means. The Russian leader’s remarks come a day earlier than talks are scheduled between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump. “If the Kyiv authorities do not want to resolve the matter peacefully, we will accomplish all the tasks before us in the course of the special military operation by military means,” Putin was quoted as saying by the TASS News Agency.

The Russian leader’s remarks come a day earlier than talks are scheduled between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump.

‘If Ukraine does not resolve…’: Putin’s BIG warning to Zelensky ahead of talks with Trump

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has accused the United States, Israel, and Europe of waging a ‘total war’ against his country. In an interview published on Saturday, Pezeshkian said, “In my opinion, we are at total war with the United States, Israel and Europe. They want to bring our country to its knees.” Pezeshkian was speaking to the official site of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, six months after Israel and the US launched strikes on Iran. Later, in late September, France, Britain, and Germany reimposed UN sanctions on Iran connected to its nuclear programme.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-diplomacy-would-not-work-without-security-zelensky-to-speak-with-allies-before-trump-meeting-1766846371768">‘Diplomacy would not work without security’: Zelensky to speak with allies before Trump meeting</a><h2>‘Current war is worse than the Iraq war in the 1980s’</h2>&nbsp;Pezeshkian further said that the current war is worse than the Iraq war in the 1980s. “If one understands it properly, this war is far more complex and more difficult than that war.”&nbsp;“In the war with Iraq, the situation was clear; they fired missiles, and it was clear where we would strike back. But here, they are now besieging us in every respect, putting us under pressure and in tight corners, creating problems—economically, culturally, politically, and in terms of security,” the president said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-of-wars-tariff-turmoil-and-climate-disasters-1766568207775">Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters</a>&nbsp;Pezeshkian made the comments on the eve of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s trip to the United States, where he plans to brief President Donald Trump on options for potential future strikes against Iran, amid concerns that Tehran is rebuilding ballistic missile production facilities and repairing air defences damaged during the June conflict, as per an NBC News report.&nbsp;<h2>Western intelligence agencies spotted unusual activity in the Iranian airspace</h2>&nbsp;Israel has told the US that the recent Iranian missile drills may be concealed preparations for a potential strike, Axios reported last Sunday, a day after Western intelligence agencies spotted unusual activity in the Iranian airspace.Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir raised the issue directly with Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, warning that the recent missile movements could be a cover for a surprise operation against the Jewish state.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-dissent-and-angst-triggered-mass-protests-worldwide-1766674340518">Yearender 2025: The year dissent and angst triggered mass protests worldwide</a>&nbsp;In June, Israel carried out airstrikes and covert operations against Iranian military and nuclear sites, killing more than 1,000 people, including nuclear scientists and senior officials.Iran retaliated by launching hundreds of missiles and drones at Israel. The US helped Israel intercept Iranian attacks and later joined the campaign, bombing three Iranian nuclear facilities on June 22.

Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian said that the current war is worse than the Iraq war in the 1980s. Here, they are besieging us in every respect, putting us under pressure and in tight corners, creating problems—economically, culturally, politically, and in terms of security,” he said.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has accused the United States, Israel, and Europe of waging a ‘total war’ against his country. In an interview published on Saturday, Pezeshkian said, “In my opinion, we are at total war with the United States, Israel and Europe. They want to bring our country to its knees.” Pezeshkian was speaking to the official site of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, six months after Israel and the US launched strikes on Iran. Later, in late September, France, Britain, and Germany reimposed UN sanctions on Iran connected to its nuclear programme. Also Read: ‘Diplomacy would not work without security’: Zelensky to speak with allies before Trump meeting ‘Current war is worse than the Iraq war in the 1980s’ Pezeshkian further said that the current war is worse than the Iraq war in the 1980s. “If one understands it properly, this war is far more complex and more difficult than that war.” “In the war with Iraq, the situation was clear; they fired missiles, and it was clear where we would strike back. But here, they are now besieging us in every respect, putting us under pressure and in tight corners, creating problems—economically, culturally, politically, and in terms of security,” the president said. Also Read: Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters Pezeshkian made the comments on the eve of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s trip to the United States, where he plans to brief President Donald Trump on options for potential future strikes against Iran, amid concerns that Tehran is rebuilding ballistic missile production facilities and repairing air defences damaged during the June conflict, as per an NBC News report. Western intelligence agencies spotted unusual activity in the Iranian airspace Israel has told the US that the recent Iranian missile drills may be concealed preparations for a potential strike, Axios reported last Sunday, a day after Western intelligence agencies spotted unusual activity in the Iranian airspace. Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir raised the issue directly with Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, warning that the recent missile movements could be a cover for a surprise operation against the Jewish state. Also Read: Yearender 2025: The year dissent and angst triggered mass protests worldwide In June, Israel carried out airstrikes and covert operations against Iranian military and nuclear sites, killing more than 1,000 people, including nuclear scientists and senior officials. Iran retaliated by launching hundreds of missiles and drones at Israel. The US helped Israel intercept Iranian attacks and later joined the campaign, bombing three Iranian nuclear facilities on June 22.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said that the current war is worse than the Iraq war in the 1980s. Here, they are besieging us in every respect, putting us under pressure and in tight corners, and creating problems—economically, culturally, politically, and in terms of security,” he said.

US, Israel, Europe waging a ‘total war’ on our country: Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian

The United Kingdom is set to launch a military "gap year" scheme, as part of efforts to boost recruitment and reconnect young people with defence, the government said Saturday (Dec 27). The initial pilot scheme, which will launch in March 2026, will offer around 150 under-25s a year of paid experience and training in the armed forces "without a commitment beyond the course". The government hopes to "eventually" expand this to offer over 1,000 places, "subject to interest".&nbsp;The announcement comes after the new head of Britain's armed forces, Richard Knighton, earlier this month issued a call for the country's "sons and daughters" to be "ready to fight" in the face of growing threats, including from Russia.&nbsp;It comes as British defence chiefs attempt to boost recruitment.&nbsp;Figures released by Britain's defence ministry in November show that its army trained around 38 per cent fewer recruits in 2022-2023 than in 2019-2020, with a growing share leaving during training compared with pre-pandemic levels.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-diplomacy-would-not-work-without-security-zelensky-to-speak-with-allies-before-trump-meeting-1766846371768">‘Diplomacy would not work without security’: Zelensky to speak with allies before Trump meeting</a>&nbsp;"This gap-year scheme will give Britain’s young people a taste of the incredible skills and training on offer across the Army, Royal Navy and RAF (air force)," said John Healey, the UK's defence secretary.&nbsp;"It’s part of our determination to reconnect society with our forces, and drive a whole of society approach to our nation’s defence."&nbsp;The scheme is inspired by a similar scheme in Australia, which the government described as an "exciting model from which to learn".&nbsp;Other European countries have looked to national service in response to the threat from Russia, with France, Germany and Belgium introducing schemes this year.&nbsp;The British government statement outlining the scheme did not mention the salary offered to recruits or how funding will be found to pay for this.&nbsp;Further details about the scheme will follow "in due course", a government spokesperson told AFP.

Figures released by Britain's defence ministry in November show that its army trained around 38 per cent fewer recruits in 2022-2023 than in 2019-2020, with a growing share leaving during training compared with pre-pandemic levels.

The United Kingdom is set to launch a military "gap year" scheme, as part of efforts to boost recruitment and reconnect young people with defence, the government said Saturday (Dec 27). The initial pilot scheme, which will launch in March 2026, will offer around 150 under-25s a year of paid experience and training in the armed forces "without a commitment beyond the course". The government hopes to "eventually" expand this to offer over 1,000 places, "subject to interest". The announcement comes after the new head of Britain's armed forces, Richard Knighton, earlier this month issued a call for the country's "sons and daughters" to be "ready to fight" in the face of growing threats, including from Russia. It comes as British defence chiefs attempt to boost recruitment. Figures released by Britain's defence ministry in November show that its army trained around 38 per cent fewer recruits in 2022-2023 than in 2019-2020, with a growing share leaving during training compared with pre-pandemic levels. Also Read: ‘Diplomacy would not work without security’: Zelensky to speak with allies before Trump meeting "This gap-year scheme will give Britain’s young people a taste of the incredible skills and training on offer across the Army, Royal Navy and RAF (air force)," said John Healey, the UK's defence secretary. "It’s part of our determination to reconnect society with our forces, and drive a whole of society approach to our nation’s defence." The scheme is inspired by a similar scheme in Australia, which the government described as an "exciting model from which to learn". Other European countries have looked to national service in response to the threat from Russia, with France, Germany and Belgium introducing schemes this year. The British government statement outlining the scheme did not mention the salary offered to recruits or how funding will be found to pay for this. Further details about the scheme will follow "in due course", a government spokesperson told AFP.

Figures released by Britain's defence ministry in November show that its army trained around 38 per cent fewer recruits in 2022-2023 than in 2019-2020, with a growing share leaving during training compared with pre-pandemic levels.

UK rolls out paid military gap year as armed forces face recruitment shortfall

Amid the ongoing persecution of minorities in Bangladesh, especially Hindus, the community seeks political representation and protection through contesting the upcoming national elections in February 2026. A political organisation registered in April prepares to fight its maiden elections, hoping to get Hindu and other minority support. &nbsp;Bangladesh Minority Janta Party (BMJP) is gearing up to contest 91 of 300 seats in Bangladesh's Parliament (Jatiya Parishad), aiming to secure 40 to 45 seats, the party president Sukriti Kumar Mandal said, as reported by The Times of India.&nbsp;The BMJP decided the number of seats to contest based on constituencies with a significant minority electorate, particularly Hindus, ranging from 20 per cent to 60 per cent.&nbsp;Ahead of the Nomination deadline on Monday, Mandal thinks Hindus are required to feel safe to come out and vote in the national election. An alliance with any of Bangladesh's mainstream political outfits, the BNP led by Tarique Rahman or Jammat-e-Islam, can be an advantage.&nbsp;"With an alliance with these parties, minorities can step out of their homes without fear of retaliation. The Awami League is off the radar, and the BMJP remains the only voice speaking for persecuted Hindus,” Mandal told The Times of India.&nbsp;<h2>Report flags sharp rise in attacks on Hindus</h2> The Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM) has raised serious concerns in its latest report, warning that unfounded blasphemy accusations are increasingly being used to harass minorities, seize their property and, in some cases, kill them.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistanis-mock-asim-munir-s-brain-gain-claim-as-5-000-doctors-11-000-engineers-exits-country-1766846758621">Pakistanis mock Asim Munir’s ‘brain gain’ claim as 5,000 doctors, 11,000 engineers exit country</a>&nbsp;According to the report, 73 false blasphemy-related cases were recorded across 32 districts between June and December 2025, with Hindu minorities emerging as the primary targets. The incidents involved beatings, lynchings and illegal occupation of property.&nbsp;The organisation said such allegations are often deployed as a pretext to settle personal vendettas or conceal disputes over land and other assets. The report documents each case in detail, listing the victims’ names, locations and dates, and also includes the killing of Dipu Das.

BJMP outlines secular agenda amid the Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM), flagging a rise in attacks on Hindu minorities.

Amid the ongoing persecution of minorities in Bangladesh, especially Hindus, the community seeks political representation and protection through contesting the upcoming national elections in February 2026. A political organisation registered in April prepares to fight its maiden elections, hoping to get Hindu and other minority support. Bangladesh Minority Janta Party (BMJP) is gearing up to contest 91 of 300 seats in Bangladesh's Parliament (Jatiya Parishad), aiming to secure 40 to 45 seats, the party president Sukriti Kumar Mandal said, as reported by The Times of India. The BMJP decided the number of seats to contest based on constituencies with a significant minority electorate, particularly Hindus, ranging from 20 per cent to 60 per cent. Ahead of the Nomination deadline on Monday, Mandal thinks Hindus are required to feel safe to come out and vote in the national election. An alliance with any of Bangladesh's mainstream political outfits, the BNP led by Tarique Rahman or Jammat-e-Islam, can be an advantage. "With an alliance with these parties, minorities can step out of their homes without fear of retaliation. The Awami League is off the radar, and the BMJP remains the only voice speaking for persecuted Hindus,” Mandal told The Times of India. Report flags sharp rise in attacks on Hindus The Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM) has raised serious concerns in its latest report, warning that unfounded blasphemy accusations are increasingly being used to harass minorities, seize their property and, in some cases, kill them. Also Read: Pakistanis mock Asim Munir’s ‘brain gain’ claim as 5,000 doctors, 11,000 engineers exit country According to the report, 73 false blasphemy-related cases were recorded across 32 districts between June and December 2025, with Hindu minorities emerging as the primary targets. The incidents involved beatings, lynchings and illegal occupation of property. The organisation said such allegations are often deployed as a pretext to settle personal vendettas or conceal disputes over land and other assets. The report documents each case in detail, listing the victims’ names, locations and dates, and also includes the killing of Dipu Das.

BJMP outlines secular agenda amid the Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM), flagging a rise in attacks on Hindu minorities.

Amid rising attacks on Hindus, Bangladesh Minority Janta Party formed ahead of upcoming elections

A powerful 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan on Saturday (Dec 27), according to the island’s weather agency. The tremor was felt across several regions, prompting authorities to monitor the situation closely. No immediate reports of major damage or casualties were available as emergency teams assessed the impact.&nbsp;The quake hit at 23:05 pm (1505 GMT) at a depth of 73 kilometres (45 miles) in the sea off Yilan county, according to Taiwan's Central Weather Administration, AFP reported.&nbsp;Taiwan is highly prone to earthquakes due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic plates collide.&nbsp;On Wednesday, the country was hit by a 6.1 magnitude earthquake in southeastern Taitung County. The tremor shook buildings in the capital, Taipei, and had a depth of 11.9 km (7.39 miles). Located near the meeting point of two tectonic plates. In 2016, a quake in southern Taiwan claimed over 100 lives, while a powerful 7.3 magnitude quake in 1999 caused more than 2,000 deaths.&nbsp;Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) reported that the recent earthquake did not meet the threshold necessary to trigger factory evacuations across the island. Taiwan, located at the meeting point of two tectonic plates, is frequently affected by seismic activity. The Central Weather Administration issued alerts for several regions, including Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung, and Tainan. The quake's intensity was recorded at a level four on Taiwan's seven-level scale in the counties of Hualien and Pingtung.&nbsp;(This is a developing story; Further details are awaited)

A powerful 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan on Saturday, according to the island’s weather agency.

A powerful 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan on Saturday (Dec 27), according to the island’s weather agency. The tremor was felt across several regions, prompting authorities to monitor the situation closely. No immediate reports of major damage or casualties were available as emergency teams assessed the impact. The quake hit at 23:05 pm (1505 GMT) at a depth of 73 kilometres (45 miles) in the sea off Yilan county, according to Taiwan's Central Weather Administration, AFP reported. Taiwan is highly prone to earthquakes due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic plates collide. On Wednesday, the country was hit by a 6.1 magnitude earthquake in southeastern Taitung County. The tremor shook buildings in the capital, Taipei, and had a depth of 11.9 km (7.39 miles). Located near the meeting point of two tectonic plates. In 2016, a quake in southern Taiwan claimed over 100 lives, while a powerful 7.3 magnitude quake in 1999 caused more than 2,000 deaths. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) reported that the recent earthquake did not meet the threshold necessary to trigger factory evacuations across the island. Taiwan, located at the meeting point of two tectonic plates, is frequently affected by seismic activity. The Central Weather Administration issued alerts for several regions, including Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung, and Tainan. The quake's intensity was recorded at a level four on Taiwan's seven-level scale in the counties of Hualien and Pingtung. (This is a developing story; Further details are awaited)

A powerful 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan on Saturday, according to the island’s weather agency.

7.0-magnitude earthquake strikes Taiwan, weather agency confirms

Pakistan is witnessing one of the biggest exoduses of skilled professionals in its history as thousands of doctors, engineers and accountants are leaving the country in recent years, adding to the economic woes of an already cash-strapped nation. The talent exodus is attributed to the reigning economic crisis and political instability marked by periods of sporadic violence.&nbsp;The concerns highlighted in a recent report published by the government revealed that as many as 5,000 doctors, 11,000 engineers and 13,000 accountants have left the country in the past two years.&nbsp;Data released by Pakistan’s Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment points to a troubling trend. In 2024 alone, more than 7.27 lakh Pakistanis registered for overseas employment, while in 2025, up to November, nearly 6.87 lakh people have already done so. The numbers contrast Pakistan's Army Chief Asim Munir's claims tried to give a positive spin to the disturbing trend by describing the mass migration as "brain gain" Former Pakistani senator Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar put the data in perspective and called out Munir's lofty rhetoric in a social media post, "Fix politics to fix the economy! Pakistan is also the 4th largest freelancing hub and with internet shutdowns causing losses of $1.62 billion, has put 2.37 million freelancing jobs at risk," Khokhar posted on X.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/700-kmph-in-two-seconds-chinese-train-smashes-world-speed-record-high-speed-rail-network-trains-maglev-trains-bullet-train-1766842697186">Watch | 700 kmph in two seconds: Chinese train smashes world speed record</a>&nbsp;The latest immigration data triggered a wave of sharp reaction and sarcasm over Munir's rhetoric. Many users pointed to remarks made by the army chief during a speech to expatriates in the United States.&nbsp;Pakistanis underline the irony, saying how losing skilled professionals could ever be called a gain, with several users questioning renewed censorship and lack of freedom and an atmosphere of fear that gripped the country after Asim Munir took over as de facto leader of the country.&nbsp;

Pakistan has lost thousands of doctors, engineers and accountants over the past two years, according to official data, undermining Munir's claims that overseas migration represents a ‘brain gain’.

Pakistan is witnessing one of the biggest exoduses of skilled professionals in its history as thousands of doctors, engineers and accountants are leaving the country in recent years, adding to the economic woes of an already cash-strapped nation. The talent exodus is attributed to the reigning economic crisis and political instability marked by periods of sporadic violence. The concerns highlighted in a recent report published by the government revealed that as many as 5,000 doctors, 11,000 engineers and 13,000 accountants have left the country in the past two years. Data released by Pakistan’s Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment points to a troubling trend. In 2024 alone, more than 7.27 lakh Pakistanis registered for overseas employment, while in 2025, up to November, nearly 6.87 lakh people have already done so. The numbers contrast Pakistan's Army Chief Asim Munir's claims tried to give a positive spin to the disturbing trend by describing the mass migration as "brain gain" Former Pakistani senator Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar put the data in perspective and called out Munir's lofty rhetoric in a social media post, "Fix politics to fix the economy! Pakistan is also the 4th largest freelancing hub and with internet shutdowns causing losses of $1.62 billion, has put 2.37 million freelancing jobs at risk," Khokhar posted on X. Also Read: Watch | 700 kmph in two seconds: Chinese train smashes world speed record The latest immigration data triggered a wave of sharp reaction and sarcasm over Munir's rhetoric. Many users pointed to remarks made by the army chief during a speech to expatriates in the United States. Pakistanis underline the irony, saying how losing skilled professionals could ever be called a gain, with several users questioning renewed censorship and lack of freedom and an atmosphere of fear that gripped the country after Asim Munir took over as de facto leader of the country.

Pakistan has lost thousands of doctors, engineers and accountants over the past two years, according to official data, undermining Munir's claims that overseas migration represents a ‘brain gain’.

Pakistanis mock Asim Munir’s ‘brain gain’ claim as 5,000 doctors, 11,000 engineers exit country

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has embarked on his journey to the US for a meeting with his counterpart Donald Trump in Florida to discuss the latest proposal to end the war in Ukraine. Ahead of meeting Trump on Sunday, Zelensky will speak with EU leaders and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on the phone. Zelensky told reporters aboard the flight to Florida that he will be stopping over in Canada on the way and meeting Prime Minister Mark Carney. Zelensky said he and PM Carney would speak by video call with European allies later on Saturday. The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, will take part in the call with Zelensky, said a commission spokesperson.&nbsp;In a post on social media, Zelensky thanked his allies for providing air defence supplies, adding that diplomacy would “not work without security”. “We will be discussing this in particular today and tomorrow with European leaders, with the Prime Minister of Canada, and with the President of the United States,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Another Russian attack is still ongoing: since last night, there have been almost 500 drones – a large number of “shaheds” – as well as 40 missiles, including Kinzhals. The primary target is Kyiv – energy facilities and civilian infrastructure. Regrettably, there have been hits,… <a href="https://t.co/OxBntAUgla">pic.twitter.com/OxBntAUgla</a>&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/2004835962069676324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinks-in-congress-exposed-digvijaya-singh-shares-old-photo-of-pm-modi-stirs-row-with-bjp-rss-praise-1766839574664">Chinks in Congress exposed?: Digvijaya Singh shares old photo of PM Modi, stirs row with BJP, RSS praise</a><h2>Trump, Zelensky to discuss 20-point draft peace plan</h2>&nbsp;When they meet in Florida on Sunday, Trump and Zelensky will discuss a 20-point proposal to end the war. It’s an updated version of the earlier 28-point plan drawn up by US envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian negotiators.Trump has kept his cards close to his chest, but told Politico earlier this week, “I think it’s going to go good with [Zelensky]. I think it’s going to go good with Putin.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-to-launch-mgnrega-bachao-campaign-on-jan-5-demand-repeal-of-vb-g-ram-g-act-kharge-1766830777227">Congress to launch ‘MGNREGA Bachao’ campaign on Jan 5, demand repeal of VB-G RAM G Act: Kharge</a>&nbsp;<h2>Kyiv strikes reveal Putin’s true mindset: Zelensky</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, a third of Kyiv’s population is without heating and hundreds of thousands of people were battling freezing temperatures after a Russian drone and missile barrage on the Ukrainian capital cut off power supplies.Zelensky said Moscow had used nearly 500 drones and 40 missiles, including ballistic missiles, in the overnight attack. “The primary target is Kyiv – energy facilities and civilian infrastructure,” he said in a post on X.The intense overnight strikes lasted 10 hours and came as Zelensky headed to Florida for a meeting with Donald Trump on Sunday to discuss a plan for ending nearly four years of fighting.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-of-wars-tariff-turmoil-and-climate-disasters-1766568207775">Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Russia trying to use every opportunity to inflict more pain’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;In a post about the overnight attacks, Zelensky said that while world leaders were focused on the bigger picture of ending the war, Ukraine needs help right now.“Supplies for air defence must be sufficient and timely, especially now, when we need them most. There must be no delays in protecting lives”, he warned. “Diplomacy will not work without security.”Zelensky repeated his claim that Russia does “not want to end the war and is trying to use every opportunity to inflict more pain on Ukraine.”&nbsp;Kyiv authorities said that at least two people were killed and dozens injured following overnight Russian strikes on the Ukrainian capital.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney would speak by video call with European allies later on Saturday. The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, will take part in the call with Zelensky, confirmed a spokesperson.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has embarked on his journey to the US for a meeting with his counterpart Donald Trump in Florida to discuss the latest proposal to end the war in Ukraine. Ahead of meeting Trump on Sunday, Zelensky will speak with EU leaders and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on the phone. Zelensky told reporters aboard the flight to Florida that he will be stopping over in Canada on the way and meeting Prime Minister Mark Carney. Zelensky said he and PM Carney would speak by video call with European allies later on Saturday. The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, will take part in the call with Zelensky, said a commission spokesperson. In a post on social media, Zelensky thanked his allies for providing air defence supplies, adding that diplomacy would “not work without security”. “We will be discussing this in particular today and tomorrow with European leaders, with the Prime Minister of Canada, and with the President of the United States,” he said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney would speak by video call with European allies later on Saturday. The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, will take part in the call with Zelensky, confirmed a spokesperson.

‘Diplomacy would not work without security’: Zelensky to speak with allies before Trump meeting

China set a new world record by accelerating a maglev train to reach a speed of 700 km/h in just two seconds, becoming the first country to achieve the feat using superconducting electric maglev systems. Scientists at China's National University of Defence Technology conducted a test on a magnetic levitation train and were able to accelerate a vehicle weighing around 1,000 kg to reach such a fast speed.&nbsp;The test was conducted on a 400-metre track, and it successfully demonstrated the acceleration and deceleration of such a fast-moving maglev train safely, making it the quickest superconducting electric maglev train in the world.&nbsp;The footage of the experimental run became viral across social media and Chinese news outlets, in which a chassis-like vehicle can be seen zooming across the track, leaving a misty trail.&nbsp;The experiment also showcased the future of travel using maglev technology in hyperloop, where trains move through vacuum-sealed tubes at incredible speed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bnp-chairman-tarique-rahman-enters-voter-rolls-pays-tribute-to-osman-hadi-signals-daughter-zaima-s-political-debut-1766836644142">BNP chairman Tarique Rahman enrolls as voter, pays tribute to Osman Hadi, signals daughter Zaima’s political debut</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a> sets a world record with superconducting maglev train hitting 700 km/h in just 2 seconds！<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/technology?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#technology</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/railway?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#railway</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/train?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#train</a> <a href="https://t.co/kMVSAAwD36">pic.twitter.com/kMVSAAwD36</a>&mdash; Shanghai Daily (@shanghaidaily) <a href="https://twitter.com/shanghaidaily/status/2004073003550974408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Maglev trains do not use conventional steel rails. Instead, they levitate above a specially built guideway using powerful magnetic forces. Because the train does not touch the track, friction is almost completely eliminated. This enables much higher speeds while reducing noise, vibration and mechanical wear.&nbsp;Electromagnets fitted to both the train and the guideway either repel or attract each other, lifting the train a few centimetres above the surface and removing all wheel-to-rail contact. Additional magnets ensure stability by keeping the train centred on the guideway and preventing side-to-side movement, even at very high speeds.&nbsp;Propulsion is provided by a linear motor rather than a traditional rotating engine. Electric currents are switched on and off in the guideway magnets, creating a travelling magnetic field that pulls the train forward and pushes it from behind.&nbsp;China operates the Shanghai maglev, which links the city to Pudong International Airport and reaches speeds of around 430 kmph, making it among the fastest commercial trains in service. The country has also tested next-generation high-speed maglev prototypes designed to achieve speeds of up to 600 kmph.

The test was carried out by researchers from China’s National University of Defence Technology, who accelerated a magnetic levitation vehicle weighing around 1,000 kg to the record-breaking speed.

China set a new world record by accelerating a maglev train to reach a speed of 700 km/h in just two seconds, becoming the first country to achieve the feat using superconducting electric maglev systems. Scientists at China's National University of Defence Technology conducted a test on a magnetic levitation train and were able to accelerate a vehicle weighing around 1,000 kg to reach such a fast speed. The test was conducted on a 400-metre track, and it successfully demonstrated the acceleration and deceleration of such a fast-moving maglev train safely, making it the quickest superconducting electric maglev train in the world. The footage of the experimental run became viral across social media and Chinese news outlets, in which a chassis-like vehicle can be seen zooming across the track, leaving a misty trail. The experiment also showcased the future of travel using maglev technology in hyperloop, where trains move through vacuum-sealed tubes at incredible speed. Also Read: BNP chairman Tarique Rahman enrolls as voter, pays tribute to Osman Hadi, signals daughter Zaima’s political debut

The test was carried out by researchers from China’s National University of Defence Technology, who accelerated a magnetic levitation vehicle weighing around 1,000 kg to the record-breaking speed.

Watch | 700 kmph in two seconds: Chinese train smashes world speed record

PM Narendra Modi tops the list of the world’s most popular political leaders, while Donald Trump slips in the December rankings. Find out the top 10 leaders with the highest approval rating at the end of 2025. 

Yearender: Top 10 most popular global political leaders in 2025, Modi tops list, Trump slips

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday (Dec 27) completed formalities to enlist himself on the national voters list in Dhaka and obtain a national identity (NID) card after ending his over 17 years of self-exile in London. The 60-year-old was accompanied by his wife, Dr Zubaida Rahman, and barrister daughter Zaima Rahman, who is expected to have a greater role in Bangladesh's politics in future as she also completed her registration formalities.&nbsp;Rahman visited the Dhaka University on Saturday and offered respects at the grave of slain student leader Osman Hadi amid tight security. He also paid his respects at the grave of Bangladesh's national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.&nbsp;Hadi, a spokesperson for Inqilab Moncho, was shot dead earlier this month. A key figure in the July 2024 uprising that brought down the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government, his killing has sparked a new wave of violence and deepened political unrest in the country.&nbsp;The son of late president Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, Tarique Rahman's visit marked a significant moment in Bangladesh's ongoing political crisis as he is expected to take over full leadership of the BNP from his ailing mother.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-500-arrested-arms-and-drugs-seized-in-national-capital-as-delhi-police-launch-pre-new-year-drive-1766832666986">Over 500 arrested, arms and drugs seized in national capital as Delhi Police launch pre-New Year drive</a>&nbsp;The public appearances of Rehman's only daughter, Zaima Rahman, who is trained as a barrister in the United Kingdom, also sparked speculation of her being the new youth symbol of renewal for the party. With Tarique attempting to establish a new connection with Bangladeshis ahead of national polls in February 2026, Zaima could play a crucial role.&nbsp;Rahman was arrested during the 2007 caretaker government and spent about 18 months in prison before travelling to the UK in 2008 for medical treatment. After the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, he has emerged as a leading contender for the prime minister’s post in the February general elections.

After completing his registration, Rahman visited Dhaka University, where he offered prayers at the grave of slain student leader Sharif Osman Hadi under tight security.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday (Dec 27) completed formalities to enlist himself on the national voters list in Dhaka and obtain a national identity (NID) card after ending his over 17 years of self-exile in London. The 60-year-old was accompanied by his wife, Dr Zubaida Rahman, and barrister daughter Zaima Rahman, who is expected to have a greater role in Bangladesh's politics in future as she also completed her registration formalities. Rahman visited the Dhaka University on Saturday and offered respects at the grave of slain student leader Osman Hadi amid tight security. He also paid his respects at the grave of Bangladesh's national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. Hadi, a spokesperson for Inqilab Moncho, was shot dead earlier this month. A key figure in the July 2024 uprising that brought down the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government, his killing has sparked a new wave of violence and deepened political unrest in the country. The son of late president Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, Tarique Rahman's visit marked a significant moment in Bangladesh's ongoing political crisis as he is expected to take over full leadership of the BNP from his ailing mother. Also Read: Over 500 arrested, arms and drugs seized in national capital as Delhi Police launch pre-New Year drive The public appearances of Rehman's only daughter, Zaima Rahman, who is trained as a barrister in the United Kingdom, also sparked speculation of her being the new youth symbol of renewal for the party. With Tarique attempting to establish a new connection with Bangladeshis ahead of national polls in February 2026, Zaima could play a crucial role. Rahman was arrested during the 2007 caretaker government and spent about 18 months in prison before travelling to the UK in 2008 for medical treatment. After the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, he has emerged as a leading contender for the prime minister’s post in the February general elections.

After completing his registration, Rahman visited Dhaka University, where he offered prayers at the grave of slain student leader Sharif Osman Hadi under tight security.

BNP chairman Tarique Rahman enrolls as voter, pays tribute to Osman Hadi, signals daughter Zaima’s political debut

Zelensky accused Russia of prolonging the war after a massive drone and missile barrage on Kyiv killed one person, injured dozens, and cut power and heating to hundreds of thousands amid freezing temperatures, triggering nationwide air alerts.

In Pics | Zelensky accuses Russia of prolonging war as Kyiv reels from massive attack

A disturbing video was circulating on Social Media in which an Israeli man was seen ramming a Palestinian offering Namaz at the roadside, in Ramallah, the occupied West Bank. After hitting him with the four-wheeler ATV, he was hurling abuses at him. A moment later, the Israeli settler was seen again shouting at him and gesturing towards him to leave the area.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Shocking footage shows an armed Israeli settler driving a four-wheel-drive vehicle and deliberately running over a Palestinian worshipper for no apparent reason, then continuing to try to push him off the road. The incident occurred near Ramallah. <a href="https://t.co/4RQuY3jdLv">pic.twitter.com/4RQuY3jdLv</a>&mdash; ✌️🇵🇸✌️ Mohammed Najjar (@hamada_pal2020) <a href="https://twitter.com/hamada_pal2020/status/2004268794278277496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The incident has triggered a response from the Israeli military. It said in a statement that the reservist has “acted in severe violation of his authority”. The man was confirmed to be an Israeli reservist soldier, whose service has since been terminated. The incident was captured on camera and widely circulated. Israeli media reported that his weapon had been confiscated and the man was under house arrest for 5 days. Israeli police did not respond to Reuters' request for comment.&nbsp;The Palestinian man had not sustained any physical injury. His father, Majdi Abu Mokho, said that the assailant, along with other settlers, has set up an outpost in the village and comes in occasionally to graze the livestock and block the roads and provoke the residents, as reported by AFP.&nbsp;This year has been the most violent for settler attacks in the West Bank, Palestine. According to the United Nations, over 1680 attacks in 2025, averaging 5 per day, specifically in Jenin and Tubas governorate, were recorded, and 227 Palestinians were killed by Israeli forces or settlers between January 1 and December 1.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A shocking video shows an Israeli settler ramming a Palestinian man offering Namaz in Ramallah. The reservist soldier has been dismissed after the incident.

A disturbing video was circulating on Social Media in which an Israeli man was seen ramming a Palestinian offering Namaz at the roadside, in Ramallah, the occupied West Bank. After hitting him with the four-wheeler ATV, he was hurling abuses at him. A moment later, the Israeli settler was seen again shouting at him and gesturing towards him to leave the area.

A shocking video shows an Israeli settler ramming a Palestinian man offering Namaz in Ramallah. The reservist soldier has been dismissed after the incident.

Watch| Israeli settler rams Palestinian man offering Namaz in West Bank

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In Pics | Zelensky accuses Russia as Kyiv reels from massive attack

Watch| Israeli settler rams Palestinian man offering Namaz in West Bank