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The year 2025 witnessed a powerful resurgence of mass protests and popular movements across the globe as millions of people hit the streets to vent their anger over economic hardships, political instability, governance failures, social injustice, and breakdown of democratic rights. The protests marked a global pattern of civic unrest shaped by inflation, unemployment, and inequality.&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>Why did protests intensify globally in 2025?&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Several common factors fuelled protests worldwide, including economic pressure amid rising prices of food, fuel, and housing. Besides, political discontent amid declining trust in political institutions and leaders and mobilisation of youth also sparked demonstrations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-yunus-govt-destroyed-bangladesh-giving-security-to-goons-terrorists-former-mp-1766665361993">‘Yunus govt destroyed Bangladesh, giving security to goons, terrorists’: Former MP</a>&nbsp;<h2>Gen Z-led protests in Nepal brought 1st female PM in power</h2>&nbsp;The protests in Nepal turned out to be the most significant, as tens of thousands of citizens, mostly Gen Z youths, fed up by political instability since the 2008 abolition of the monarchy, staged mass demonstrations demanding political reform, accountability, and economic justice. The simmering anger and public frustration reached a tipping point after a ban on social media, and protests erupted in Kathmandu and other major cities. The protests by students, workers, professionals, and civil society groups&nbsp;were largely peaceful but massive, demanding an end to corruption, electoral reforms, better employment opportunities, and accountability from political leaders.&nbsp;In less than 48 hours, protesters forced the overthrow of the government.&nbsp;Prime Minister KP Oli resigned on Sept. 9. Nepal got its first female prime minister in Sushila Karki, who was also the country’s first female chief justice. Her appointment came after online polls on the chat portal Discord saw thousands supporting her, citing her record of taking on the corrupt and elite.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-targeted-for-criticising-asim-munir-imran-khan-s-aide-assaulted-in-uk-nose-and-jaw-broken-1766661743804">‘Targeted for criticising Asim Munir’: Imran Khan’s aide assaulted in UK; nose and jaw broken</a>&nbsp;<h2>Mass anti-corruption protests forced Bulgaria PM to resign</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Bulgaria’s Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov resigned after mass street protests over the government’s economic policies and failure to tackle corruption. Tens of thousands of Bulgarians had rallied in the capital, Sofia, and dozens of other towns and cities across the country in the latest in a series of rolling demonstrations giving vent to the public’s growing frustration.Protesters chanted “Resign” and held up “I’m fed up!” signs featuring caricatures of politicians.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Millions join mass ‘No Kings’ anti-Trump protests</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

A person dressed in a Statue of Liberty costume participates in a “No Kings” national day of protest in New York

&nbsp;&nbsp;‘No Kings’ protests took place across the US opposing President Donald Trump’s alleged one-man rule and accusations that the president is behaving more like a monarch than an elected official. Millions joined more than 2,500 demonstrations calling for limits to presidential power as protesters accused the Trump administration of authoritarian policies like immigration crackdowns and mass firings of federal workers, besides attacks on the media and judicial independence. Protesters carried signs that read, “No crowns, No kings.”&nbsp;The protesters decried immigration detentions carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and the Trump administration’s aggressive slashing of federal education resources and environmental protections, among other concerns.&nbsp;Republicans dismissed the protests as ‘Hate America’ rallies.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-pm-s-adviser-rejects-claims-of-pia-being-sold-at-less-value-says-new-owners-to-run-airline-from-april-1766588987477">Pakistan PM‘s adviser rejects claims of PIA being sold at less value, says new owners to run airline from April</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Unite the Kingdom’ protesters flood London streets</h2>&nbsp;UK’s far-right activist Tommy Robinson drew a massive crowd, said to be in six figures, in his anti-immigrant ‘Unite the Kingdom’ rally, marking the discontent against the government on the immigrants and asylum issues in the country. Tens of thousands of people marched, leading to sporadic clashes with police. The marchers came for what was called a “festival of free speech”, but the speeches at the event were largely racist conspiracy theories and anti-Muslim comments. Robinson told the crowd that migrants had more rights in court than the “British public, the people that built this nation.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-unveils-massive-statues-at-rashtra-prerna-sthal-in-lucknow-watch-1766669648209">PM Modi unveils 65-feet-high statues at Rashtra Prerna Sthal in Lucknow | Watch</a>&nbsp;Some speakers, including far-right politicians from Europe, also addressed the rally. French politician Eric Zemmour said, “We are both subject to the same process of the great replacement of our European people by peoples coming from the south and of Muslim culture, you and we are being colonised by our former colonies.”&nbsp;Elon Musk also joined by video and criticised the UK government. “What I see happening here is a destruction of Britain, initially a slow erosion, but rapidly increasing erosion of Britain with massive uncontrolled migration,” he said.&nbsp;Participants in the march carried St George’s flags and the union jack and chanted, “We want our country back.” Some protesters held placards saying “stop the boats,” “send them home,” and “enough is enough, save our children.”Counter-protesters carried signs that read “Refugees welcome” and “Smash the far right,” while chanting “Stand up, fight back.”&nbsp;<h2>Peeved locals hit the streets against ‘overtourism’</h2>&nbsp;Thousands of citizens took to the streets of cities in southern Europe to demonstrate against ‘overtourism’, firing water pistols at shop windows and setting off smoke in Barcelona, where the main protest took place.“Your holidays, my misery,” protesters chanted in the streets of Barcelona while holding up banners emblazoned with slogans such as “mass tourism kills the city” and “their greed brings us ruin”.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Locals hold a banner reading, ‘Enough saturation, the city for those who live in it’ during protest against overtourism

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Protesters in Portugal and Italy also argued that uncontrolled tourism was sending housing prices soaring and forcing people out of their neighbourhoods.Barcelona, a city of 1.6 million, drew 26 million tourists last year.Around 600 people joined the demonstration, firing water pistols or setting off coloured smoke and putting stickers saying ‘Neighbourhood self-defence, tourist go home’ on shop windows and hotels.&nbsp;<h2>Farmers’ protests in India</h2>&nbsp;India, the world’s largest democracy, also witnessed some waves of protests, reflecting the diversity of its society.Farmers continued their protests demanding Minimum Support Price (MSP) guarantees and turned up in large numbers near Delhi borders and in agricultural states of Punjab and Haryana.Protests in India highlighted strong democratic participation and a vibrant society.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Protests over Gaza conflict</h2>&nbsp;Mass protests were held across the world against the Gaza War and the hardships faced by Palestinians amid a shortage of food, essentials and medicines, but ended after the ceasefire came into effect.&nbsp;<h2>How social media and technology changed protests</h2>&nbsp;Technology and social media played a major role in most mass protests across the globe. They helped in online mobilisation, livestreaming of demonstrations and citizen journalism as digital platforms reduced reliance on traditional leadership.

The protests in Nepal turned out to be the most significant, as tens of thousands of citizens, mostly Gen Z youths, fed up by political instability since the 2008 abolition of the monarchy, staged mass demonstrations demanding political reform, accountability, and economic justice.

The year 2025 witnessed a powerful resurgence of mass protests and popular movements across the globe as millions of people hit the streets to vent their anger over economic hardships, political instability, governance failures, social injustice, and breakdown of democratic rights. The protests marked a global pattern of civic unrest shaped by inflation, unemployment, and inequality. Also Read: Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters Why did protests intensify globally in 2025? Several common factors fuelled protests worldwide, including economic pressure amid rising prices of food, fuel, and housing. Besides, political discontent amid declining trust in political institutions and leaders and mobilisation of youth also sparked demonstrations. Also Read: ‘Yunus govt destroyed Bangladesh, giving security to goons, terrorists’: Former MP Gen Z-led protests in Nepal brought 1st female PM in power The protests in Nepal turned out to be the most significant, as tens of thousands of citizens, mostly Gen Z youths, fed up by political instability since the 2008 abolition of the monarchy, staged mass demonstrations demanding political reform, accountability, and economic justice. The simmering anger and public frustration reached a tipping point after a ban on social media, and protests erupted in Kathmandu and other major cities. The protests by students, workers, professionals, and civil society groups were largely peaceful but massive, demanding an end to corruption, electoral reforms, better employment opportunities, and accountability from political leaders. In less than 48 hours, protesters forced the overthrow of the government. Prime Minister KP Oli resigned on Sept. 9. Nepal got its first female prime minister in Sushila Karki, who was also the country’s first female chief justice. Her appointment came after online polls on the chat portal Discord saw thousands supporting her, citing her record of taking on the corrupt and elite. Also Read: ‘Targeted for criticising Asim Munir’: Imran Khan’s aide assaulted in UK; nose and jaw broken Mass anti-corruption protests forced Bulgaria PM to resign Bulgaria’s Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov resigned after mass street protests over the government’s economic policies and failure to tackle corruption. Tens of thousands of Bulgarians had rallied in the capital, Sofia, and dozens of other towns and cities across the country in the latest in a series of rolling demonstrations giving vent to the public’s growing frustration. Protesters chanted “Resign” and held up “I’m fed up!” signs featuring caricatures of politicians. Millions join mass ‘No Kings’ anti-Trump protests

The protests in Nepal turned out to be the most significant, as tens of thousands of citizens, mostly Gen Z youths, fed up by political instability since the 2008 abolition of the monarchy, staged mass demonstrations demanding political reform, accountability, and economic justice.

Yearender 2025: The year dissent and angst triggered mass protests worldwide

Newly released verbatim transcripts of conversations between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former US President George W. Bush, made public this week by the "National Security Archive" following a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit, showed deep early concerns about Pakistan's&nbsp;nuclear weapons and the risks of proliferation to states such as Iran&nbsp;and North Korea.&nbsp;The documents, covering meetings and calls from 2001 to 2008, highlight how both leaders viewed Pakistan,&nbsp;under military ruler Pervez Musharraf, as a major non-proliferation headache, even as they built a close post-9/11 partnership focused on counter-terrorism. In their first personal encounter on 16 June 2001 at Brdo Castle in Slovenia, Putin voiced stark worries about the country's stability. "I am concerned about Pakistan," he told Bush. "It is just a junta with nuclear weapons. It is no democracy, yet the West does not criticize it. Should talk about it."&nbsp;The exchange came amid discussions on strategic stability, missile defence, Iran, North Korea, and NATO expansion. Bush described Russia as "part of the West and not an enemy", while the two leaders expressed mutual respect-Bush later famously said he had looked into Putin's soul and found him trustworthy. By September 2005, during a meeting in the Oval Office focused on non-proliferation and cooperation on Iran and North Korea, the conversation turned explicitly to traces of Pakistani involvement in Iran's nuclear activities.<h2>2005 Transcript:</h2>Putin: But it's not clear what the labs (Iran) have, where they are... Cooperation with Pakistan still exists.Bush: I talked to Musharraf about that. I told him we're worried about transfers to Iran and North Korea. They put A.Q. Khan in jail, and some of his buddies. Under house arrest. We want to know what they said. I keep reminding Musharraf of that. Either he's getting nothing, or he's not being forthcoming."Putin: As far as I understand, they found uranium of Pakistani origin in the centrifuges.Bush: Yes, the stuff the Iranians forgot to tell the IAEA about. That's a violation.Putin: It was of Pakistani origin. That makes me nervous.Bush: It makes us nervous, tooPutin: Think about us.Bush: We don't need a lot of religious nuts with nuclear weapons. That's what Iran has running the country.&nbsp;The candid dialogue shows the shared anxiety over the A.Q. Khan proliferation network, the Pakistani scientist who admitted selling nuclear technology to multiple countries, and the fragility of Pakistan's command and control over its arsenal amid political instability. The transcripts portray an early "foxhole" camaraderie between the two presidents, with Bush calling Putin "the type of guy I like to have in the foxhole with me" after the 9/11 attacks.&nbsp;Released earlier this week, after processing by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), the documents provide rare insight into high-level discussions that shaped US-Russian cooperation on proliferation before relations deteriorated over issues including Iraq, NATO enlargement, and missile defence. The National Security Archive, a nonprofit research institute at George Washington University, filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit against the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) that accelerated declassification of the Bush-Putin transcripts.<h2>India's own concerns over Pakistan's non-proliferation</h2>India has long expressed concerns over Pakistan's nuclear proliferation record. Earlier this year, in response of US President Trump saying that Pakistan is conducting secret nuclear test, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal (November 2025) pointed that, "Clandestine and illegal nuclear activities are in keeping with Pakistan’s history, that is centered around decades of smuggling, export control violations, secret partnerships, AQ Khan network and further proliferation". He emphasized that India has consistently drawn international attention to Pakistan's record of nuclear non-transparency and proliferation, framing it as a major regional security concern.&nbsp;&nbsp;After the May conflict, India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh strongly questioned the safety of Pakistan's nuclear arsenal, labelling it an "irresponsible and rogue nation" and calling for its weapons to be placed under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Putin and Bush shared 'nervous' fears over Pakistan's nuclear proliferation, declassified transcripts show

Newly released verbatim transcripts of conversations between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former US President George W. Bush, made public this week by the "National Security Archive" following a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit, showed deep early concerns about Pakistan's nuclear weapons and the risks of proliferation to states such as Iran and North Korea. The documents, covering meetings and calls from 2001 to 2008, highlight how both leaders viewed Pakistan, under military ruler Pervez Musharraf, as a major non-proliferation headache, even as they built a close post-9/11 partnership focused on counter-terrorism. In their first personal encounter on 16 June 2001 at Brdo Castle in Slovenia, Putin voiced stark worries about the country's stability. "I am concerned about Pakistan," he told Bush. "It is just a junta with nuclear weapons. It is no democracy, yet the West does not criticize it. Should talk about it." The exchange came amid discussions on strategic stability, missile defence, Iran, North Korea, and NATO expansion. Bush described Russia as "part of the West and not an enemy", while the two leaders expressed mutual respect-Bush later famously said he had looked into Putin's soul and found him trustworthy. By September 2005, during a meeting in the Oval Office focused on non-proliferation and cooperation on Iran and North Korea, the conversation turned explicitly to traces of Pakistani involvement in Iran's nuclear activities. 2005 Transcript: Putin: But it's not clear what the labs (Iran) have, where they are... Cooperation with Pakistan still exists. Bush: I talked to Musharraf about that. I told him we're worried about transfers to Iran and North Korea. They put A.Q. Khan in jail, and some of his buddies. Under house arrest. We want to know what they said. I keep reminding Musharraf of that. Either he's getting nothing, or he's not being forthcoming." Putin: As far as I understand, they found uranium of Pakistani origin in the centrifuges. Bush: Yes, the stuff the Iranians forgot to tell the IAEA about. That's a violation. Putin: It was of Pakistani origin. That makes me nervous. Bush: It makes us nervous, too Putin: Think about us. Bush: We don't need a lot of religious nuts with nuclear weapons. That's what Iran has running the country. The candid dialogue shows the shared anxiety over the A.Q. Khan proliferation network, the Pakistani scientist who admitted selling nuclear technology to multiple countries, and the fragility of Pakistan's command and control over its arsenal amid political instability. The transcripts portray an early "foxhole" camaraderie between the two presidents, with Bush calling Putin "the type of guy I like to have in the foxhole with me" after the 9/11 attacks. Released earlier this week, after processing by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), the documents provide rare insight into high-level discussions that shaped US-Russian cooperation on proliferation before relations deteriorated over issues including Iraq, NATO enlargement, and missile defence. The National Security Archive, a nonprofit research institute at George Washington University, filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit against the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) that accelerated declassification of the Bush-Putin transcripts. India's own concerns over Pakistan's non-proliferation India has long expressed concerns over Pakistan's nuclear proliferation record. Earlier this year, in response of US President Trump saying that Pakistan is conducting secret nuclear test, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal (November 2025) pointed that, "Clandestine and illegal nuclear activities are in keeping with Pakistan’s history, that is centered around decades of smuggling, export control violations, secret partnerships, AQ Khan network and further proliferation". He emphasized that India has consistently drawn international attention to Pakistan's record of nuclear non-transparency and proliferation, framing it as a major regional security concern. After the May conflict, India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh strongly questioned the safety of Pakistan's nuclear arsenal, labelling it an "irresponsible and rogue nation" and calling for its weapons to be placed under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The documents, covering meetings and calls from 2001 to 2008, highlight how both leaders viewed Pakistan,&nbsp;under military ruler Pervez Musharraf, as a major non-proliferation headache, even as they built a close post-9/11 partnership focused on counter-terrorism

Even as political friction and diplomatic tensions linger between India and Bangladesh, Dhaka has opted for economic logic over political posturing by turning to India for cheaper rice imports. Bangladesh’s interim administration has openly conceded that overlooking more affordable Indian rice in favour of higher-priced alternatives would strain the economy, particularly at a time of growing domestic pressure, according to a News18 Hindi report. Bangladesh has finalised the import of 50,000 tonnes of rice from India at a rate of about $355 per tonne. At the same time, it is sourcing an identical quantity from Pakistan at a steeper price of $395 per tonne, as reported by Bangladeshi daily The Daily Star.&nbsp;The difference of roughly $40 per tonne means tangible savings for Dhaka. On the Indian shipment alone, this amounts to nearly $2 million, or approximately ₹17.9 crore at current exchange rates, the News18 Hindi report said. Officials in Bangladesh also acknowledged that procuring rice from other global suppliers, such as Vietnam, would have driven costs even higher, underlining India’s advantage as the most cost-effective source.<h2>Economics over geopolitics</h2>The decision stands out against the backdrop of a downturn in bilateral relations. Despite strained ties, India has neither curtailed exports nor revised prices, reflecting New Delhi’s stance that food security should not be entangled with political disputes. This pragmatic approach appears to have influenced Dhaka’s calculations. Bangladesh’s Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed said interim chief adviser Muhammad Yunus was making efforts to defuse tensions with India. He stressed that trade and economic decisions would not be dictated by political rhetoric.<h2>‘Strained, but far from broken’</h2>Relations between the two countries have witnessed protests, diplomatic exchanges, and public criticism in recent months, prompting some observers to call it the most difficult phase since 1971. Ahmed, however, offered a more measured view. While conceding that relations appear tense, he said the situation is not as dire as it may seem from the outside, according to News18 Hindi. He also suggested that external forces could be stoking anti-India narratives that do not align with Bangladesh’s long-term interests.&nbsp;Ultimately, the rice import deal sends a clear signal: political narratives may shift, but economic compulsions prevail. For Bangladesh, India remains the most dependable and affordable partner for essential food supplies, ensuring trade links continue even amid diplomatic strain.

Despite political tensions, Indian rice remains Bangladesh’s best bet

Even as political friction and diplomatic tensions linger between India and Bangladesh, Dhaka has opted for economic logic over political posturing by turning to India for cheaper rice imports. Bangladesh’s interim administration has openly conceded that overlooking more affordable Indian rice in favour of higher-priced alternatives would strain the economy, particularly at a time of growing domestic pressure, according to a News18 Hindi report. Bangladesh has finalised the import of 50,000 tonnes of rice from India at a rate of about $355 per tonne. At the same time, it is sourcing an identical quantity from Pakistan at a steeper price of $395 per tonne, as reported by Bangladeshi daily The Daily Star. The difference of roughly $40 per tonne means tangible savings for Dhaka. On the Indian shipment alone, this amounts to nearly $2 million, or approximately ₹17.9 crore at current exchange rates, the News18 Hindi report said. Officials in Bangladesh also acknowledged that procuring rice from other global suppliers, such as Vietnam, would have driven costs even higher, underlining India’s advantage as the most cost-effective source. Economics over geopolitics The decision stands out against the backdrop of a downturn in bilateral relations. Despite strained ties, India has neither curtailed exports nor revised prices, reflecting New Delhi’s stance that food security should not be entangled with political disputes. This pragmatic approach appears to have influenced Dhaka’s calculations. Bangladesh’s Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed said interim chief adviser Muhammad Yunus was making efforts to defuse tensions with India. He stressed that trade and economic decisions would not be dictated by political rhetoric. ‘Strained, but far from broken’ Relations between the two countries have witnessed protests, diplomatic exchanges, and public criticism in recent months, prompting some observers to call it the most difficult phase since 1971. Ahmed, however, offered a more measured view. While conceding that relations appear tense, he said the situation is not as dire as it may seem from the outside, according to News18 Hindi. He also suggested that external forces could be stoking anti-India narratives that do not align with Bangladesh’s long-term interests. Ultimately, the rice import deal sends a clear signal: political narratives may shift, but economic compulsions prevail. For Bangladesh, India remains the most dependable and affordable partner for essential food supplies, ensuring trade links continue even amid diplomatic strain.

Despite rising diplomatic tensions, Bangladesh imports cheaper rice from India, saving nearly $2 million, showing economic necessity outweighs political differences

Pope Leo, in his first Christmas sermon as pontiff, lashed out at the conditions faced by Palestinians in Gaza, making an unusually forthright appeal during a service that is typically solemn and spiritual as Christians worldwide mark the birth of Jesus Christ.&nbsp;The first American pope said the story of Jesus being born in a stable symbolised God having “pitched his fragile tent” among humanity. “How, then, ‍can we not think of the tents in Gaza, exposed for weeks to rain, wind and cold?” he quested, ALJAZZERA reported.<h3>Leo frequently lamented the conditions for Palestinians</h3>Leo is celebrating his first Christmas after he was elected as pope in May by the ‍world’s cardinals to ⁠succeed the late Pope Francis. He has a quieter, more diplomatic style than his predecessor and usually avoids making any political references during his sermons.&nbsp;After becoming the new pope, he frequently lamented the conditions for Palestinians in Gaza multiple times and said that the only solution to the decades-long war between Israel and Palestine must consider a Palestinian state.&nbsp;Israel and Hamas reached a ceasefire in October following two years of heavy bombardment and military action in Gaza. However, humanitarian agencies warn that aid reaching the devastated enclave remains insufficient, with nearly the entire population rendered homeless after repeated displacement caused by Israeli strikes.&nbsp;Leo in Thursday’s service with thousands in ‌St Peter’s Basilica also highlighted the conditions for the homeless globally and the destruction caused by the war. “Fragile is the flesh of defenceless ⁠populations, tried by so many wars, ongoing or concluded, leaving behind rubble and open wounds,” said the pope.&nbsp;“Fragile are the minds and lives of young people forced to take up arms, who on the ‌front lines feel the senselessness of what is asked of them and the falsehoods that fill the pompous speeches of those who send them to their deaths,” he ‍added.

After becoming the new pope, he frequently lamented the conditions for Palestinians in Gaza multiple times and said that the only solution to the decades-long war between Israel and Palestine must consider a Palestinian state.

Pope Leo, in his first Christmas sermon as pontiff, lashed out at the conditions faced by Palestinians in Gaza, making an unusually forthright appeal during a service that is typically solemn and spiritual as Christians worldwide mark the birth of Jesus Christ. The first American pope said the story of Jesus being born in a stable symbolised God having “pitched his fragile tent” among humanity. “How, then, ‍can we not think of the tents in Gaza, exposed for weeks to rain, wind and cold?” he quested, ALJAZZERA reported. Leo frequently lamented the conditions for Palestinians Leo is celebrating his first Christmas after he was elected as pope in May by the ‍world’s cardinals to ⁠succeed the late Pope Francis. He has a quieter, more diplomatic style than his predecessor and usually avoids making any political references during his sermons. After becoming the new pope, he frequently lamented the conditions for Palestinians in Gaza multiple times and said that the only solution to the decades-long war between Israel and Palestine must consider a Palestinian state. Israel and Hamas reached a ceasefire in October following two years of heavy bombardment and military action in Gaza. However, humanitarian agencies warn that aid reaching the devastated enclave remains insufficient, with nearly the entire population rendered homeless after repeated displacement caused by Israeli strikes. Leo in Thursday’s service with thousands in ‌St Peter’s Basilica also highlighted the conditions for the homeless globally and the destruction caused by the war. “Fragile is the flesh of defenceless ⁠populations, tried by so many wars, ongoing or concluded, leaving behind rubble and open wounds,” said the pope. “Fragile are the minds and lives of young people forced to take up arms, who on the ‌front lines feel the senselessness of what is asked of them and the falsehoods that fill the pompous speeches of those who send them to their deaths,” he ‍added.

After becoming the new pope, he frequently lamented the conditions for Palestinians in Gaza multiple times and said that the only solution to the decades-long war between Israel and Palestine must consider a Palestinian state.

'How can we not think of Gaza?': Pope Leo calls out Palestinian suffering in Gaza in his first Christmas sermon

The Turkish authorities have disrupted attacks that were planned to take place during Christmas and New Year's events. The security forces have arrested over 100 suspected members of the so-called Islamic State group. This was achieved after mass raids on members of the so-called Islamic State group. The officials said that the IS supporters were actively planning attacks across Turkey this week. The attacks were particularly against non-Muslims.&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;Police detained 115 suspects, but efforts are ongoing to trace a further 22, an official statement read. The announcement comes two days after Turkish intelligence agents carried out a raid against the group on the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. A Turkish national who is alleged to have held a senior role with the IS wing operating in the region was detained and accused of planning attacks against civilians.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-this-is-not-your-home-racist-nick-fuentes-launches-another-hate-speech-against-indians-asks-vivek-ramaswamy-to-go-back-to-india-1766595636877">‘This is not your home’: ‘Racist’ Nick Fuentes launches another hate-speech against Indians, asks Vivek Ramaswamy to ‘go back to India’</a> Turkey shares around 900km of border with Syria. The IS operates in parts of Syria. Syria's president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, who has close ties to the Turkish government, has vowed to work with the US and Europe to root out surviving elements of IS. Security sources said the IS members were tasked with carrying out suicide attacks targeting civilians in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Türkiye and Europe.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-something-that-would-shake-bangladesh-what-did-sharif-osman-hadi-s-shooter-say-to-his-girlfriend-before-the-attack-1766146632136">‘Something that would shake Bangladesh’: What did Sharif Osman Hadi's ‘shooter’ say to his girlfriend before the attack</a> &nbsp;

The officials said that the IS supporters were actively planning attacks across Turkey this week. The attacks were particularly against non-Muslims.

The Turkish authorities have disrupted attacks that were planned to take place during Christmas and New Year's events. The security forces have arrested over 100 suspected members of the so-called Islamic State group. This was achieved after mass raids on members of the so-called Islamic State group. The officials said that the IS supporters were actively planning attacks across Turkey this week. The attacks were particularly against non-Muslims. Also read: ‘Best gift an illegal alien can give themselves’: Trump admin offers $3,000 cash, paid travel for self deportation Police detained 115 suspects, but efforts are ongoing to trace a further 22, an official statement read. The announcement comes two days after Turkish intelligence agents carried out a raid against the group on the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. A Turkish national who is alleged to have held a senior role with the IS wing operating in the region was detained and accused of planning attacks against civilians. Also read: ‘This is not your home’: ‘Racist’ Nick Fuentes launches another hate-speech against Indians, asks Vivek Ramaswamy to ‘go back to India’ Turkey shares around 900km of border with Syria. The IS operates in parts of Syria. Syria's president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, who has close ties to the Turkish government, has vowed to work with the US and Europe to root out surviving elements of IS. Security sources said the IS members were tasked with carrying out suicide attacks targeting civilians in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Türkiye and Europe. Also read: ‘Something that would shake Bangladesh’: What did Sharif Osman Hadi's ‘shooter’ say to his girlfriend before the attack

The officials said that the IS supporters were actively planning attacks across Turkey this week. The attacks were particularly against non-Muslims.

Turkey thwarts planned attacks on Christmas, arrests over 100 Islamic State group suspects. Details inside

A 29-year-old man identified as Amrit Mondal, also known as Samrat, was beaten to death by locals in Pangsha Upazila of Rajbari on Wednesday (December 24) night over allegations of extortion. The incident occurred around 11 pm at the Hossaindanga Old Market area. Confirming the incident on Thursday (December 24) morning, Pangsha Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Sheikh Moinul Islam said Amrit was the leader of a listed criminal group known as “Samrat Bahini.” He was the son of Akshay Mondal from Hossaindanga village.&nbsp;Police officials said one of Amrit’s associates, Salim Sheikh, was captured by locals along with two firearms and later handed over to the police. Salim is a resident of Bosa-Kushtia village in Pangsha and the son of Islam Sheikh. According to police and local sources, Amrit had allegedly established an armed gang bearing his name and was involved in extortion and other criminal activities in the region. During the Awami League government, he reportedly fled to India but continued to run operations remotely. He had returned to the area only recently.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-issues-new-social-media-guidelines-for-personnel-here-are-details-1766669673919">Indian Army issues new social media guidelines for personnel. Here are details</a>&nbsp;On Wednesday night, Amrit allegedly went to a house in the old market area demanding ransom. When the homeowner refused, members of his gang reportedly returned later. Failing to find the house owner, they allegedly assaulted his son. The family then raised an alarm, shouting “robber,” prompting nearby residents to gather and attack Amrit, resulting in his death at the scene. His accomplices managed to escape, while Salim was detained by locals. OC Sheikh Moinul Islam told Prothom Alo that Amrit Mondal had several cases against him, including murder charges. “His associate Selim has been arrested with a pistol and a one-shot gun. The body has been recovered and sent for autopsy, and multiple cases are being prepared in connection with the incident,” he said.

Another Hindu man lynched in Bangladesh, days after Dipu Das burnt alive by mob

A 29-year-old man identified as Amrit Mondal, also known as Samrat, was beaten to death by locals in Pangsha Upazila of Rajbari on Wednesday (December 24) night over allegations of extortion. The incident occurred around 11 pm at the Hossaindanga Old Market area. Confirming the incident on Thursday (December 24) morning, Pangsha Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Sheikh Moinul Islam said Amrit was the leader of a listed criminal group known as “Samrat Bahini.” He was the son of Akshay Mondal from Hossaindanga village. Police officials said one of Amrit’s associates, Salim Sheikh, was captured by locals along with two firearms and later handed over to the police. Salim is a resident of Bosa-Kushtia village in Pangsha and the son of Islam Sheikh. According to police and local sources, Amrit had allegedly established an armed gang bearing his name and was involved in extortion and other criminal activities in the region. During the Awami League government, he reportedly fled to India but continued to run operations remotely. He had returned to the area only recently. Also Read: Indian Army issues new social media guidelines for personnel. Here are details On Wednesday night, Amrit allegedly went to a house in the old market area demanding ransom. When the homeowner refused, members of his gang reportedly returned later. Failing to find the house owner, they allegedly assaulted his son. The family then raised an alarm, shouting “robber,” prompting nearby residents to gather and attack Amrit, resulting in his death at the scene. His accomplices managed to escape, while Salim was detained by locals. OC Sheikh Moinul Islam told Prothom Alo that Amrit Mondal had several cases against him, including murder charges. “His associate Selim has been arrested with a pistol and a one-shot gun. The body has been recovered and sent for autopsy, and multiple cases are being prepared in connection with the incident,” he said.

Confirming the incident on Thursday (December 24) morning, Pangsha Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Sheikh Moinul Islam said Amrit was the leader of a listed criminal group known as “Samrat Bahini.” He was the son of Akshay Mondal from Hossaindanga village

From Midnight mass, street parades, Christmas day swims to prayers, this is how the world is celebrating Christmas 2025 

Christmas 2025: How the world celebrated the festival across continents

&nbsp;After the Donald Trump administration announced to replace its longstanding H-1B visa random lottery that has a wage-based selection mechanism, the Indian IT industry has flagged serious concerns. It stated that such a decision will impact smaller and mid-sized companies working in the US, which depend on academic calendars, product release cycles to recruit their employees, and client delivery schedules.&nbsp;“A sudden shift to a wage-weighted model would introduce uncertainty, increase compliance complexity, and disrupt long-established workforce planning, particularly for smaller and mid-sized firms that align recruitment with academic calendars, client delivery schedules, and product release cycles,” Nasscom said in a statement, the Mint reported. It added that the process will prioritise employees with higher wages and better skills.<h3>Replacement of the H-1B visa lottery would impact the US</h3>Under its wage-weighted system, the change could lead to an aversion in international students from pursuing higher education in the US, as the new system will restrict entry-level job opportunities, which will weaken the talent base. The step will become a negative situation for the US, which will weaken the country's goals of strengthening competitiveness, driving innovation, and supporting higher education.&nbsp;Nasscom added that the change would have a disproportionate impact on Indian IT professionals, given that a large share of technology workers in the US are Indian nationals. It also added that the proposed H-1B visa selection method raises key legal, economic and operational issues, marking a major shift from the existing lottery-based system.&nbsp;The industry body called for a phased rollout of the wage-weighted model with adequate transition time, recommending that implementation be deferred until the FY28 lottery cycle. It also stated that it would allow employers sufficient time to adjust processes, meet compliance requirements and sustain confidence in the US talent and investment ecosystem.

Nasscom has also warned that the step will become a negative situation for the US, which will weaken the country's goals of strengthening competitiveness, driving innovation, and supporting higher education.

After the Donald Trump administration announced to replace its longstanding H-1B visa random lottery that has a wage-based selection mechanism, the Indian IT industry has flagged serious concerns. It stated that such a decision will impact smaller and mid-sized companies working in the US, which depend on academic calendars, product release cycles to recruit their employees, and client delivery schedules. “A sudden shift to a wage-weighted model would introduce uncertainty, increase compliance complexity, and disrupt long-established workforce planning, particularly for smaller and mid-sized firms that align recruitment with academic calendars, client delivery schedules, and product release cycles,” Nasscom said in a statement, the Mint reported. It added that the process will prioritise employees with higher wages and better skills. Replacement of the H-1B visa lottery would impact the US Under its wage-weighted system, the change could lead to an aversion in international students from pursuing higher education in the US, as the new system will restrict entry-level job opportunities, which will weaken the talent base. The step will become a negative situation for the US, which will weaken the country's goals of strengthening competitiveness, driving innovation, and supporting higher education. Nasscom added that the change would have a disproportionate impact on Indian IT professionals, given that a large share of technology workers in the US are Indian nationals. It also added that the proposed H-1B visa selection method raises key legal, economic and operational issues, marking a major shift from the existing lottery-based system. The industry body called for a phased rollout of the wage-weighted model with adequate transition time, recommending that implementation be deferred until the FY28 lottery cycle. It also stated that it would allow employers sufficient time to adjust processes, meet compliance requirements and sustain confidence in the US talent and investment ecosystem.

Nasscom has also warned that the step will become a negative situation for the US, which will weaken the country's goals of strengthening competitiveness, driving innovation, and supporting higher education.

How will scrapping the H-1B visa lottery affect India’s IT industry? Nasscom raises alarm

A lottery ticket bought in Arkansas has turned its owner into an overnight billionaire after clinching a staggering $1.87 billion Powerball jackpot on Christmas Eve, one of the largest wins in US lottery history. Powerball confirmed the prize is the second-largest jackpot ever awarded in the country, instantly placing the unnamed winner among America’s ultra-wealthy. While the winner’s identity has not been disclosed, officials revealed the winning combination: 4, 25, 31, 52 and 59, with the red Powerball number 19 and a Power Play of 2.&nbsp;The Christmas Eve draw produced several other big winners as well. Eight tickets matched all five white balls, sold across California, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Two New York tickets earned $1 million prizes. In addition, 114 tickets won $50,000 each, while 31 others secured payouts of $100,000. Calling the win “truly life-altering,” Powerball Product Group Chair and Iowa Lottery CEO Matt Strawn congratulated the winner and thanked participants nationwide, noting that lottery ticket sales contribute to public programs and services.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/christmas-apocalypse-has-been-cancelled-says-ghana-prophet-buys-mercedes-with-donations-1766665974354">Christmas apocalypse has been cancelled, says Ghana 'prophet', buys Mercedes with donations</a>&nbsp;Powerball says players have a 1-in-24.9 chance of winning any prize, but the odds of hitting the jackpot remain astronomically slim at 1 in 292.2 million. The Arkansas winner must now decide how to receive the money, either through annual payments spread over 30 years or by opting for an immediate lump sum. The cash option would total $834.9 million before taxes, while the annuity would deliver the full advertised amount over time.&nbsp;If the annuity route is chosen, the winner’s wealth would surpass that of several global celebrities. Forbes estimates Bruce Springsteen’s net worth at $1.2 billion, Rihanna’s at $1.4 billion, and Taylor Swift’s fortune at around $1.6 billion. The jackpot would also edge past Kim Kardashian’s estimated $1.7 billion net worth, though it would still fall short of Oprah Winfrey and Michael Jordan, whose fortunes exceed $3 billion.&nbsp;The new billionaire could easily indulge in luxury real estate. Private island listings off Florida’s coast start as low as $2 million, with expansive islands priced around $75 million — still a fraction of the jackpot. High-end mansions in Beverly Hills range from just over $1 million to $175 million, while lavish Hamptons estates, including 12-bedroom homes spanning 15,000 square feet, are listed near $50 million. The record for the biggest Powerball jackpot remains $2.04 billion, won by Edwin Castro in California in November 2022. Castro chose the lump-sum payout and walked away with nearly $998 million, according to the California Lottery.

A billion-dollar Christmas: Arkansas player wins $1.87bn Powerball prize

A lottery ticket bought in Arkansas has turned its owner into an overnight billionaire after clinching a staggering $1.87 billion Powerball jackpot on Christmas Eve, one of the largest wins in US lottery history. Powerball confirmed the prize is the second-largest jackpot ever awarded in the country, instantly placing the unnamed winner among America’s ultra-wealthy. While the winner’s identity has not been disclosed, officials revealed the winning combination: 4, 25, 31, 52 and 59, with the red Powerball number 19 and a Power Play of 2. The Christmas Eve draw produced several other big winners as well. Eight tickets matched all five white balls, sold across California, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Two New York tickets earned $1 million prizes. In addition, 114 tickets won $50,000 each, while 31 others secured payouts of $100,000. Calling the win “truly life-altering,” Powerball Product Group Chair and Iowa Lottery CEO Matt Strawn congratulated the winner and thanked participants nationwide, noting that lottery ticket sales contribute to public programs and services. Also Read: Christmas apocalypse has been cancelled, says Ghana 'prophet', buys Mercedes with donations Powerball says players have a 1-in-24.9 chance of winning any prize, but the odds of hitting the jackpot remain astronomically slim at 1 in 292.2 million. The Arkansas winner must now decide how to receive the money, either through annual payments spread over 30 years or by opting for an immediate lump sum. The cash option would total $834.9 million before taxes, while the annuity would deliver the full advertised amount over time. If the annuity route is chosen, the winner’s wealth would surpass that of several global celebrities. Forbes estimates Bruce Springsteen’s net worth at $1.2 billion, Rihanna’s at $1.4 billion, and Taylor Swift’s fortune at around $1.6 billion. The jackpot would also edge past Kim Kardashian’s estimated $1.7 billion net worth, though it would still fall short of Oprah Winfrey and Michael Jordan, whose fortunes exceed $3 billion. The new billionaire could easily indulge in luxury real estate. Private island listings off Florida’s coast start as low as $2 million, with expansive islands priced around $75 million — still a fraction of the jackpot. High-end mansions in Beverly Hills range from just over $1 million to $175 million, while lavish Hamptons estates, including 12-bedroom homes spanning 15,000 square feet, are listed near $50 million. The record for the biggest Powerball jackpot remains $2.04 billion, won by Edwin Castro in California in November 2022. Castro chose the lump-sum payout and walked away with nearly $998 million, according to the California Lottery.

An Arkansas Powerball ticket won a whopping $1.87 billion jackpot on Christmas Eve, the second-largest lottery prize ever in the United States

China has planned to deploy humanoid robots at its border with Vietnam for patrolling and logistics purposes. UBTECH Robotics Corp, a Shenzhen-based company, has won a $37 million contract to deploy its Walker S2 robot starting this month. This will mark the first large-scale deployment of the robots. These robots are industrial-grade humanoid machines designed for works like lifting, patrolling, guiding travellers, managing crowd flow, etc. They will reportedly be placed in Fangchenggang in a coastal city in Guangxi near Vietnam, where cargoes, trucks, coaches and traffic move abundantly.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>UB Tech's Walker S2 robots&nbsp;</h2>These robots are adult-sized human robots with legs, arms and torso, a replica of human anatomy. It uses BrainNet 2.0, a dual-loop AI architecture developed by UB Tech that supports multimodal reasoning, allowing autonomous control and decision making. They can move wherever a human can go. These robots are capable of autonomous battery swapping, without any human assistance. It has a dual battery switching design, which helps it monitor its own battery while in a swapping station. These can bend like125° angle and handle 15kg of weight within a 0-1.8 m workspace. It has an RGB binocular stereo vision, which allows it to achieve "human-eye" like precision. To maintain course and avoid collision, it also has depth sensors and force feedback in its joints to monitor nearby movements.&nbsp;<h2>China's push for Humanoid Robots&nbsp;</h2>UB Tech wants to build 5,000 units of humanoid robots by the end of 2026 and 10,000 units by 2027. These units are planned to be deployed in automotive manufacturing, smart factories, logistics hubs and data collection centres. China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology opened a consultation in 2024 to make industry rules for humanoid robots. China is treating them like a strategic business sector. In Shijingshan District, it has opened a robot training centre has been opened to gather data on their performance efficiency.&nbsp;However, China's economic planners have warned against over-promising and over-building, as the technology is in its infancy and white hat hackers have warned about the vulnerability in building and deploying AI systems. One word command could turn them into a Trojan horse.&nbsp;<h2>&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

China plans a large-scale deployment of UBTech’s Walker S2 humanoid robots at the Vietnam border for patrol, logistics, crowd control and guidance tasks.

China has planned to deploy humanoid robots at its border with Vietnam for patrolling and logistics purposes. UBTECH Robotics Corp, a Shenzhen-based company, has won a $37 million contract to deploy its Walker S2 robot starting this month. This will mark the first large-scale deployment of the robots. These robots are industrial-grade humanoid machines designed for works like lifting, patrolling, guiding travellers, managing crowd flow, etc. They will reportedly be placed in Fangchenggang in a coastal city in Guangxi near Vietnam, where cargoes, trucks, coaches and traffic move abundantly. UB Tech's Walker S2 robots These robots are adult-sized human robots with legs, arms and torso, a replica of human anatomy. It uses BrainNet 2.0, a dual-loop AI architecture developed by UB Tech that supports multimodal reasoning, allowing autonomous control and decision making. They can move wherever a human can go. These robots are capable of autonomous battery swapping, without any human assistance. It has a dual battery switching design, which helps it monitor its own battery while in a swapping station. These can bend like125° angle and handle 15kg of weight within a 0-1.8 m workspace. It has an RGB binocular stereo vision, which allows it to achieve "human-eye" like precision. To maintain course and avoid collision, it also has depth sensors and force feedback in its joints to monitor nearby movements. China's push for Humanoid Robots UB Tech wants to build 5,000 units of humanoid robots by the end of 2026 and 10,000 units by 2027. These units are planned to be deployed in automotive manufacturing, smart factories, logistics hubs and data collection centres. China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology opened a consultation in 2024 to make industry rules for humanoid robots. China is treating them like a strategic business sector. In Shijingshan District, it has opened a robot training centre has been opened to gather data on their performance efficiency. However, China's economic planners have warned against over-promising and over-building, as the technology is in its infancy and white hat hackers have warned about the vulnerability in building and deploying AI systems. One word command could turn them into a Trojan horse.

China plans a large-scale deployment of UBTech’s Walker S2 humanoid robots at the Vietnam border for patrol, logistics, crowd control and guidance tasks.

China to deploy humanoid robot for patrolling at the Vietnam border

Awami League Joint General Secretary and former MP, Bahauddin Nasim, has said that the Mohd Yunus government is destroying Bangladesh as there has been no import or export and the factories are closing down. He also targeted Yunus for letting hate and communal hatred spread among the people and giving security to goons and criminals. Targeting the interim government led by Yunus, Nasim said, “They forcefully hijacked the elected government. During the Hasina government, the GDP exceeded 8. Now, there is no import or export. Factories are closing. They totally destroyed Bangladesh by spreading hate and communal hatred among the common people and the police. Many police officers have also been murdered, like Dipu Das.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Kolkata, West Bengal | On the Bangladesh unrest, Joint General Secretary and former MP of Bangladesh Awami League, Bahauddin Nasim, says, &quot;They forcefully hijacked the elected government. During the Hasina government, the GDP exceeded 8. Now, there is no import or export.… <a href="https://t.co/uHCCbKnsTL">pic.twitter.com/uHCCbKnsTL</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2003860458445635682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 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/world/-targeted-for-criticising-asim-munir-imran-khan-s-aide-assaulted-in-uk-nose-and-jaw-broken-1766661743804">‘Targeted for criticising Asim Munir’: Imran Khan’s aide assaulted in UK; nose and jaw broken</a>&nbsp;“This government is giving security to the goons, criminals. The government said no case will be registered against these criminals. They are threatening judges and advocates. The Md Yunus government are giving security to terrorists,” Nasim alleged while speaking to news agency ANI.Meanwhile, Saddam Hussain, President of the Bangladesh Students League, the student wing of the now-banned Bangladesh Awami League, accused the Yunus government of blaming India for whatever is happening in Bangladesh.&nbsp;“Whatever happens in Bangladesh, the current illegal government is trying to blame the Indian government... He (Muhammad Yunus) is chanting the anti-India rhetoric so that he can appease the fundamental, extremist groups, and cover up his domestic failure.”Referring to the lynching of Dipu Chandra Das, Hussain said, “The case of Dipu Chandra Das, who was attacked and burned alive, has become the new normal in Bangladesh... The government played a role in those cases of minority persecution. A sort of Talibanisation is going on in Bangladesh right now.”&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;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On the Bangladesh crisis, Saddam Hussain, President of the Bangladesh Students League, the student wing of the now-banned Bangladesh Awami League, says, &quot;There is a situation of total lawlessness in Bangladesh... The mob is actually ruling Bangladesh... The government is… <a href="https://t.co/h81laMhXdj">pic.twitter.com/h81laMhXdj</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2004120985109500233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;“There is a situation of total lawlessness in Bangladesh... The mob is actually ruling Bangladesh... The government is facilitating this in every way possible. Extremists were openly meeting with international terrorist organisations, Pakistan-backed organisations, and those who were previously convicted of heinous attacks,” he added.“What Osman Hadi’s brother said paints a sad but accurate picture of the current situation... The government is responsible for all the things that happened inside Bangladesh.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-pm-s-adviser-rejects-claims-of-pia-being-sold-at-less-value-says-new-owners-to-run-airline-from-april-1766588987477">Pakistan PM‘s adviser rejects claims of PIA being sold at less value, says new owners to run airline from April</a>&nbsp;“Bangladesh is in a constitutional and security crisis right now. What is needed most in Bangladesh is to establish a neutral government and hold a free, fair, and inclusive election. There is also rising extremism. So the return of the BNP acting chairman will not solve the problem of Bangladesh. It will facilitate the one-sided elections... It is actually a backdoor deal between the illegal government and the BNP-Jamaat alliance to facilitate one-sided elections; the question of democracy will be out of the syllabus again,” he told ANI.

During the Hasina government, the GDP exceeded 8. Now, there is no import or export. Factories are closing. They totally destroyed Bangladesh by spreading hate and communal hatred among the common people. Many police officers have also been murdered, like Dipu Das, said Bahauddin Nasim.

Awami League Joint General Secretary and former MP, Bahauddin Nasim, has said that the Mohd Yunus government is destroying Bangladesh as there has been no import or export and the factories are closing down. He also targeted Yunus for letting hate and communal hatred spread among the people and giving security to goons and criminals. Targeting the interim government led by Yunus, Nasim said, “They forcefully hijacked the elected government. During the Hasina government, the GDP exceeded 8. Now, there is no import or export. Factories are closing. They totally destroyed Bangladesh by spreading hate and communal hatred among the common people and the police. Many police officers have also been murdered, like Dipu Das.”

During the Hasina government, the GDP exceeded 8. Now, there is no import or export. Factories are closing. They totally destroyed Bangladesh by spreading hate and communal hatred among the common people. Many police officers have also been murdered, like Dipu Das, said &nbsp;.

‘Yunus govt destroyed Bangladesh, giving security to goons, terrorists’: Former MP

Thailand on Thursday (Dec 25) defended the demolition of Lord Vishnu statue at the Thailand-Cambodia border amid intense clashes between the two nation. It said that t the removal was carried out to assert control in a disputed frontier area and the structure was “not connected to any religion.” The Thai government said that the statue's removal was "related to security considerations and area administration and not intended to disrespect any religion or beliefs". "The said structure was not connected to any religion, but was merely a decorative piece at a location along the Thailand-Cambodia border," the statement added. In a separate statement, Bangkok said that the statue was "not installed as a registered or officially recognised religious site". "More importantly, its removal was undertaken with the objective of affirming effective control of the area," according to the Thai government. It expressed "sincere regret for any discomfort that may have arisen from misunderstandings" due to the circulating images. Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul went on to tell reporters that&nbsp;“a destroyed statue cannot compare to soldiers' lives or limbs.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Cambodia has condemned the Thai army for demolishing a Hindu Vishnu statue in a disputed border area after more than two weeks of fighting between Cambodia and Thailand. According to Cambodian officials in Preah Vihear, the statue was built in 2014 and stood several hundred… <a href="https://t.co/Epqzy6vzBk">pic.twitter.com/Epqzy6vzBk</a>&mdash; Jacob in Cambodia 🇺🇸 🇰🇭 (@jacobincambodia) <a href="https://twitter.com/jacobincambodia/status/2003761495067488395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What Cambodia said?</h2>Kim Chanpanha, Cambodian government spokesman in the border province of Preah Vihear, said that the statue, built in 2014, "was inside our territory in the An Ses area". "We condemn the destruction of ancient temples and statues that are worshipped by Buddhist and Hindu followers," Chanpanha added.<h2>What was the incident?</h2>On December 22, Lord Vishnu's statue in a Cambodian temple complex was allegedly demolished by Thailand military. Videos of the incident circulated on social media causing widespread anger. The Vishnu statue was built in 2014.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/temple-demolition-truce-talks-snap-polls-and-india-china-s-appeal-what-s-happening-now-in-thailand-cambodia-conflict-1766636339779">Thailand, Cambodia clashes continue even as truce talks begin; China, India back dialouge, snap polls ahead</a><h2>What India said on demolition?</h2>India has issued a statement on the demolition of a statue of Lord Vishnu at the Thailand-Cambodia border amid intens clashes between the two nation. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday (Dec 24) reacted to the demolition, saying "such disrespectful acts hurt the sentiments of followers around the world and should not take place." The statement also mentioned, “Hindu and Buddhist deities are deeply revered and worshipped by people across the region, as part of our shared civilizational heritage.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-such-disrespectful-acts-india-reacts-to-demolition-of-hindu-deity-statue-at-thailand-cambodia-border-1766631856293">'Such disrespectful acts': India reacts to demolition of Hindu deity statue at Thailand-Cambodia border</a><h2>Thailand-Cambodia truce talks begin amid clashes</h2>Thailand and Cambodia began truce talks at a border checkpoint in Thailand's Chanthaburi province on Dec 24. This comes after Cambodia raised issues about the venue and pressed on a “neutral venue” for talks. After talks began, the Cambodian government posted a picture of the two defence delegations and said the talks had begun, seeking to "ensure the cessation of hostilities", restore stability and "facilitate a swift return to normalcy"

Thailand defended the demolition of a Lord Vishnu statue at the Thailand-Cambodia border, citing security and territorial control, denying religious intent. Cambodia condemned the act, saying the statue lay within its territory. India said such actions hurt religious sentiments

Thailand on Thursday (Dec 25) defended the demolition of Lord Vishnu statue at the Thailand-Cambodia border amid intense clashes between the two nation. It said that t the removal was carried out to assert control in a disputed frontier area and the structure was “not connected to any religion.” The Thai government said that the statue's removal was "related to security considerations and area administration and not intended to disrespect any religion or beliefs". "The said structure was not connected to any religion, but was merely a decorative piece at a location along the Thailand-Cambodia border," the statement added. In a separate statement, Bangkok said that the statue was "not installed as a registered or officially recognised religious site". "More importantly, its removal was undertaken with the objective of affirming effective control of the area," according to the Thai government. It expressed "sincere regret for any discomfort that may have arisen from misunderstandings" due to the circulating images. Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul went on to tell reporters that “a destroyed statue cannot compare to soldiers' lives or limbs.”

Thailand defended the demolition of a Lord Vishnu statue at the Thailand-Cambodia border, citing security and territorial control, denying religious intent. Cambodia condemned the act, saying the statue lay within its territory. India said such actions hurt religious sentiments

'Cannot compare soldiers' lives or limbs...': Thailand defends demolition of Hindu deity statue at Cambodia border, dismisses religious sentiments

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party said on Thursday that former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s adviser Shahzad Akbar was brutally attacked in United Kingdom’s Cambridge. The party said that a man in the age group of 25-30 years attacked and punched Shahzad in the face, breaking his nose and jaw. The party said in a social media post that Shahzad was attacked a day after he had delivered a factual speech against Pakistan’s martial law regime and was critical of Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir. Former special assistant to the prime minister (SAPM) Mirza Shahzad Akbar was attacked in the United Kingdom, where he has been living in self-imposed exile since April 2022,&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A few days ago, the DG ISPR, Major General Ahmed Sharif said in a press conference about Barrister Shehzad Akbar that &quot;I don&#39;t even want to see his face”! Yesterday Barrister Shahzad delivered a bold and factual speech against Pakistan’s martial law regime, in front of Pakistan… <a href="https://t.co/lxzgHZdQR8">pic.twitter.com/lxzgHZdQR8</a>&mdash; PTI UK (@UKPTIOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKPTIOfficial/status/2003874813220184379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 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/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;In his viral speech, Akbar had allegedly criticised Munir, accusing him of attacking homes, kidnapping loved ones and leaders like Imran Khan, while asserting that his attempts to instil fear would not work on the public.&nbsp;“A few days ago, the DG ISPR, Major General Ahmed Sharif said in a press conference about Barrister Shehzad Akbar that “I don’t even want to see his face”! Yesterday Barrister Shahzad delivered a bold and factual speech against Pakistan’s martial law regime, in front of Pakistan High Commission London during a peaceful protest,” it said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-pm-s-adviser-rejects-claims-of-pia-being-sold-at-less-value-says-new-owners-to-run-airline-from-april-1766588987477">Pakistan PM‘s adviser rejects claims of PIA being sold at less value, says new owners to run airline from April</a>&nbsp;“This morning in Cambridge, Barrister Shahzad Akbar was brutally attacked near his home. The 25-30 year old attacker continuously punched him in the face, as a result of which his nose and jaw have been fractured and he is in the hospital,” it added.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Closing comments at London, UK Dharna - <a href="https://twitter.com/ShazadAkbar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShazadAkbar</a> speaking<a href="https://twitter.com/ISFPakistan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ISFPakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%DA%86%D9%84%D9%88_%DA%86%D9%84%D9%88_%D8%A7%DA%88%DB%8C%D8%A7%D9%84%DB%81_%DA%86%D9%84%D9%88?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#چلو_چلو_اڈیالہ_چلو</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%B3%D9%B9%D8%B1%DB%8C%D9%B9_%D9%85%D9%88%D9%88%D9%85%D9%86%D9%B9_%DA%A9%DB%8C_%D8%AA%DB%8C%D8%A7%D8%B1%DB%8C_%D9%BE%DA%A9%DA%91%DB%8C%DA%BA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#سٹریٹ_موومنٹ_کی_تیاری_پکڑیں</a> <a href="https://t.co/pQD7B0zb58">pic.twitter.com/pQD7B0zb58</a>&mdash; PTI UK (@UKPTIOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKPTIOfficial/status/2003537339134382230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fadnavis-mocks-uddhav-raj-thackeray-reunion-says-as-if-russia-and-ukraine-came-together-1766575337248">Fadnavis mocks Uddhav-Raj Thackeray reunion, says, ‘As if Russia and Ukraine came together’</a>&nbsp;Shahzad Akbar is in the hospital, while the local police have obtained all the details, and the investigation is ongoing.&nbsp;&nbsp;Akbar, who was the accountability adviser in the PTI government, was previously also attacked in November 2023 at his home in Hertfordshire.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/top-maoist-commander-ganesh-uike-carrying-rs-1-1-crore-bounty-killed-in-odisha-1766659028023">Top Maoist commander Ganesh Uike, carrying Rs 1.1 crore bounty, killed in Odisha</a>&nbsp;The Pakistan government has submitted extradition documents for Shahzad Akbar to the British High Commissioner, requesting his immediate return. Shahzad Akbar, a member of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, served as an adviser to the now-incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan.&nbsp;Imran Khan and his wife, Bushra Bibi, were both sentenced to 17 years in prison in the Toshakhana-II corruption case. A separate case over the alleged submission of fake receipts related to Toshakhana gifts has also been registered against Bushra Bibi. Khan, who has been in jail since August 2023, is facing multiple cases filed after his removal from power in April 2022.&nbsp;Even the United Nations has called for the release of Imran Khan from solitary confinement.

Shahzad Akbar is in the hospital, while the local police have obtained all the details, and the investigation is ongoing. The Pakistan government has submitted extradition documents for Shahzad Akbar to the British High Commissioner, requesting his immediate return.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party said on Thursday that former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s adviser Shahzad Akbar was brutally attacked in United Kingdom’s Cambridge. The party said that a man in the age group of 25-30 years attacked and punched Shahzad in the face, breaking his nose and jaw. The party said in a social media post that Shahzad was attacked a day after he had delivered a factual speech against Pakistan’s martial law regime and was critical of Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir. Former special assistant to the prime minister (SAPM) Mirza Shahzad Akbar was attacked in the United Kingdom, where he has been living in self-imposed exile since April 2022,

Shahzad Akbar is in the hospital, while the local police have obtained all the details, and the investigation is ongoing. The Pakistan government has submitted extradition documents for Shahzad Akbar to the British High Commissioner, requesting his immediate return.

‘Targeted for criticising Asim Munir’: Imran Khan’s aide assaulted in UK; nose and jaw broken

Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman returned to his country 17 years after living in self-imposed exile. Supporters gathered in large numbers to welcome the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader. Soon after his arrival in Dhaka, his wife Zubaida and daughter Zaima headed to House No. 196 on Gulshan Avenue, while the BNP leader, who stepped into the Bangladeshi soil barefoot, headed to the venue of his rally in a red and green bulletproof bus. 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.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">তারেক রহমানকে বরণ করে নিতে সকাল থেকেই জনসমূদ্র ঢাকা মহানগরী | 25 Dec 2025 <a href="https://t.co/sTFVj8pnj4">https://t.co/sTFVj8pnj4</a>&mdash; Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP (@bdbnp78) <a href="https://twitter.com/bdbnp78/status/2004012912864800931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Tarique Rahman pays tribute to Osman Hadi</h2>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.&nbsp;Upon his arrival, Rahman wrote on Facebook: “Finally in Sylhet, on the soil of Bangladesh!” Chief Adviser of the interim government, Shafiqul Alam, said that Muhammad Yunus-led Bangladeshi government is making "every effort" to ensure adequate security for Tarique Rahman.&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 has returned to Bangladesh amid renewed chaos in the country after the killing of Hadi and a Hindu man Dipu Chandra Das. He is seen as a frontrunner for the Prime Minister's post ahead of keenly watched elections scheduled for February 2026. Meanwhile, interim leader Muhammad Yunus is facing massive pressure over the killing of Hadi. Amid the unrest special assistant to the Chief Adviser of the interim government on Home Affairs, Khuda Baksh Chowdhury, resigned from his position. Hadi's brother has accused the current dispensation of killing his brother and has warned that they too will be forced to flee the country, similar to Hasina, if his brither's perpetrators are not brought to justice.&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>

After returning to Bangladesh after 17 years, BNP acting chief Tarique Rahman addressed a rally in Dhaka, repeatedly calling for peace and stability. He is set to visit his ailing mother Khaleda Zia at Evercare Hospital, as party supporters gathered in large numbers.

Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman returned to his country 17 years after living in self-imposed exile. Supporters gathered in large numbers to welcome the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader. Soon after his arrival in Dhaka, his wife Zubaida and daughter Zaima headed to House No. 196 on Gulshan Avenue, while the BNP leader, who stepped into the Bangladeshi soil barefoot, headed to the venue of his rally in a red and green bulletproof bus. 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.

After returning to Bangladesh after 17 years, BNP acting chief Tarique Rahman addressed a rally in Dhaka, repeatedly calling for peace and stability. He is set to visit his ailing mother Khaleda Zia at Evercare Hospital, as party supporters gathered in large numbers.

'Liberation of 2024, sacrifice by Hadi, and hope for unity': Tarique Rahman pitches 'new Bangladesh' plan in first speech after arrival

The North Korean state media released pictures of the progress of an 8,700-tonne nuclear-powered submarine and condemned the US and South Korea nuclear submarine deal as an “offensive act” which violates the North’s security and maritime sovereignty.

North Korea condemns US-South Korea nuclear submarine deal, shows off progress on its 8,700-tonne nuclear submarine

China on Thursday (December 25) accused the United States of misrepresenting Beijing’s defence stance, saying Washington was attempting to interfere in improving ties between China and India. Responding to a question at a regular press briefing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian dismissed suggestions that Beijing could use the recent easing of border tensions with India to block closer India–US relations. Lin said China approaches its relationship with India from a long-term strategic standpoint and stressed that the boundary dispute is a bilateral matter. “We oppose any third party making judgments on this issue,” he added.&nbsp;The statement came after the Pentagon, in a report released earlier this week, claimed that China may try to leverage reduced tensions along the disputed border to stabilise relations with India and prevent a further strengthening of India–US ties. The US Department of Defense’s annual report to Congress, titled Military and Security Developments Involving the People’s Republic of China and released on December 23, described India–China relations as fragile despite recent diplomatic engagement. The report said Beijing “probably seeks to capitalise on decreased tension along the Line of Actual Control (LAC)” to manage ties with New Delhi, while noting that India remains wary of China’s intentions due to long-standing mistrust.&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, Tarique Rahman returns amid pressure on Yunus — What's latest from Bangladesh</a> The report referred to an important development in October 2024, when India and China agreed to disengage from several standoff points along the LAC. This understanding was announced shortly before President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi met on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Kazan.&nbsp;According to the Pentagon, the Xi–Modi interaction triggered a phase of regular high-level dialogue, including talks on border management, resumption of direct flights, visa facilitation, and exchanges involving scholars and journalists. However, the report cautioned that major irritants continue to constrain the relationship, pointing out that China considers Taiwan, the South China Sea, the Senkaku Islands, and Arunachal Pradesh as “core interests” linked to sovereignty.&nbsp;The assessment also highlighted China’s expanding military cooperation with Pakistan. Beijing has supplied Islamabad with advanced military hardware over the past decade, including naval frigates and combat aircraft. China currently offers three fighter jets for export, the fifth-generation FC-31, the fourth-generation J-10C multirole fighter, and the jointly developed JF-17 lightweight fighter produced with Pakistan.

China slams US report suggesting border easing aimed at India-US ties

China on Thursday (December 25) accused the United States of misrepresenting Beijing’s defence stance, saying Washington was attempting to interfere in improving ties between China and India. Responding to a question at a regular press briefing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian dismissed suggestions that Beijing could use the recent easing of border tensions with India to block closer India–US relations. Lin said China approaches its relationship with India from a long-term strategic standpoint and stressed that the boundary dispute is a bilateral matter. “We oppose any third party making judgments on this issue,” he added. The statement came after the Pentagon, in a report released earlier this week, claimed that China may try to leverage reduced tensions along the disputed border to stabilise relations with India and prevent a further strengthening of India–US ties. The US Department of Defense’s annual report to Congress, titled Military and Security Developments Involving the People’s Republic of China and released on December 23, described India–China relations as fragile despite recent diplomatic engagement. The report said Beijing “probably seeks to capitalise on decreased tension along the Line of Actual Control (LAC)” to manage ties with New Delhi, while noting that India remains wary of China’s intentions due to long-standing mistrust. Also Read: Bangladesh Home ministry official resigns, Tarique Rahman returns amid pressure on Yunus — What's latest from Bangladesh The report referred to an important development in October 2024, when India and China agreed to disengage from several standoff points along the LAC. This understanding was announced shortly before President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi met on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Kazan. According to the Pentagon, the Xi–Modi interaction triggered a phase of regular high-level dialogue, including talks on border management, resumption of direct flights, visa facilitation, and exchanges involving scholars and journalists. However, the report cautioned that major irritants continue to constrain the relationship, pointing out that China considers Taiwan, the South China Sea, the Senkaku Islands, and Arunachal Pradesh as “core interests” linked to sovereignty. The assessment also highlighted China’s expanding military cooperation with Pakistan. Beijing has supplied Islamabad with advanced military hardware over the past decade, including naval frigates and combat aircraft. China currently offers three fighter jets for export, the fifth-generation FC-31, the fourth-generation J-10C multirole fighter, and the jointly developed JF-17 lightweight fighter produced with Pakistan.

China has accused the US of misreading its defence policy, rejecting claims it seeks to use border calm with India to curb growing India-US ties

A recent United Nations study finds that Asia and the Pacific is the world’s “ultimate testing ground” for artificial intelligence. The region spans a 200-fold gap between its richest and poorest nations, with strong digital ecosystems in some countries and limited connectivity, skills and infrastructure in others. These divides shape who will benefit from AI - and who will bear its risks.&nbsp;Artificial intelligence is advancing at a historic pace, but countries are starting from very different points. The report warns that without deliberate action, AI could widen gaps in income, opportunity and governance, reversing years of progress in reducing global inequality.&nbsp;<h2>AI’s promise and risk across Asia and the Pacific</h2>&nbsp;The region already accounts for more than half of global AI users and nearly 70 percent of AI patents. AI could raise GDP growth by about two percentage points and increase productivity by up to five percent in key sectors. But these gains may be uneven. Countries with limited connectivity, data, and institutional capacity risk being locked out early, creating what the report calls “unequal abundance”, where a few surge ahead while many could be left behind.&nbsp;At the same time, women and young people face particular vulnerabilities. Jobs held by women are nearly twice as exposed to automation, and youth employment is already declining in high-AI-exposure roles, especially for those aged 22–25, threatening early-career pathways. In South Asia, women are up to 40% less likely than men to own a smartphone. Rural and indigenous communities often remain invisible in the datasets that train AI systems, increasing the risk of algorithmic bias and exclusion from essential services.&nbsp;“AI is racing ahead, and many countries are still at the starting line,” said Kanni Wignaraja, UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific. “The Asia and Pacific experience highlights how quickly gaps can emerge between those shaping AI and those being shaped by it.”&nbsp;<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

The report warns that without deliberate action, AI could widen gaps in income, opportunity and governance, reversing years of progress in reducing global inequality. 

A recent United Nations study finds that Asia and the Pacific is the world’s “ultimate testing ground” for artificial intelligence. The region spans a 200-fold gap between its richest and poorest nations, with strong digital ecosystems in some countries and limited connectivity, skills and infrastructure in others. These divides shape who will benefit from AI - and who will bear its risks. Artificial intelligence is advancing at a historic pace, but countries are starting from very different points. The report warns that without deliberate action, AI could widen gaps in income, opportunity and governance, reversing years of progress in reducing global inequality. AI’s promise and risk across Asia and the Pacific The region already accounts for more than half of global AI users and nearly 70 percent of AI patents. AI could raise GDP growth by about two percentage points and increase productivity by up to five percent in key sectors. But these gains may be uneven. Countries with limited connectivity, data, and institutional capacity risk being locked out early, creating what the report calls “unequal abundance”, where a few surge ahead while many could be left behind. At the same time, women and young people face particular vulnerabilities. Jobs held by women are nearly twice as exposed to automation, and youth employment is already declining in high-AI-exposure roles, especially for those aged 22–25, threatening early-career pathways. In South Asia, women are up to 40% less likely than men to own a smartphone. Rural and indigenous communities often remain invisible in the datasets that train AI systems, increasing the risk of algorithmic bias and exclusion from essential services. “AI is racing ahead, and many countries are still at the starting line,” said Kanni Wignaraja, UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific. “The Asia and Pacific experience highlights how quickly gaps can emerge between those shaping AI and those being shaped by it.”

The report warns that without deliberate action, AI could widen gaps in income, opportunity and governance, reversing years of progress in reducing global inequality.&nbsp;

AI threatens jobs held by women nearly twice in comparison to men: Study

Bangladesh faces mounting political turmoil as a home ministry official resigned amid unrest over activist Sharif Osman Hadi’s killing. Violence claimed another life, while Muhammad Yunus faces pressure to reshuffle his interim government. BNP leader Tarique Rahman’s return adds to election tension.

Bangladesh Home ministry official resigns, Tarique Rahman returns amid pressure on Yunus — What's latest from Bangladesh

Nvidia has reportedly reached its largest-ever deal, a $20 billion licensing and talent acquisition agreement with AI chip startup Groq (not to be confused with the AI bot Grok from Elon Musk’s xAI). The deal smells like an attempt to gobble up a potential competitor, part of the “catch and kill” moves Silicon Valley’s big tech industry is notorious for. What is the deal, and why does it matter for one of the world’s top AI chipmaking giants? Here is what you should know.<h2>What is in the Groq deal with Nvidia?</h2>Started by former Google engineers in 2016, Groq makes LPU (Language Processing Unit) chips for ultra-fast, low-cost AI inference. The reported $20 billion all-cash deal includes asset purchases and non-exclusive technology licensing. These assets include Groq’s AI inference technology and intellectual property.Groq’s founder and CEO Jonathan Ross, president Sunny Madra, and other senior leaders will now be part of Nvidia talent force. This deal, if confirmed, surpasses Nvidia’s $7 billion acquisition of Mellanox in 2019. As of its September 2025 funding round, Groq was valued at $6.9 billion. GroqCloud, the cloud operations arm of the startup, is not part of the deal and will continue independently under new leadership, with CFO Simon Edwards likely to be its CEO, as per reports.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nvidia-scripts-history-becomes-first-firm-to-reach-5-trillion-market-value-following-ai-boom-1761748694795">Riding on AI boom, Nvidia scripts history, becomes first firm to reach $5 trillion market value</a><h2>Why Groq matters for Nvidia</h2>AI inference is the process of running trained AI models, such as chatbots and other real-time applications, to generate instant responses. Currently, AI inference is becoming a larger share of total AI computing demand as models move from training to deployment at scale.&nbsp;This possibly explains Nvidia’s growing emphasis on inference optimisation alongside its dominance in AI training.Therefore, the Groq deal could bolster AI inference leadership for Nvidia, and eventually help integrate low-latency technology into its AI chips.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nvidia-hits-5tn-market-cap-world-business-watch-wion-1761801804595/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nvidia-hits-5tn-market-cap-world-business-watch-wion-1761801804595/embed</a><h2>Why Groq’s tech is a coveted asset for Nvidia: The case for LPU chips</h2>Groq is led by ex-Googlers like Jonathan Ross, who had helped design Google’s Tensor Processing Unit (TPU). TPUs are specialised AI chips that accelerate complex AI and Machine Learning tasks behind Google's Search, Photos, Translate, and Gemini AI interface. It is also used in Google data centres, Google Cloud, devices and recommendation engines. &nbsp;Groq builds specialised AI accelerator chips called Language Processing Units (LPUs), designed specifically for fast, low-latency, and energy-efficient AI inference.While traditional graphics processing units (GPUs) are good at training AI models, Groq’s LPUs focus on deterministic, high-speed inference with lower power consumption.This makes them well-suited to heavier workloads that need quick token generation.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-would-happen-to-nvidia-if-china-attacked-taiwan-today-a-factual-breakdown-of-the-worst-case-scenario-1764335291497">What would happen to NVIDIA if China attacked Taiwan today? A factual breakdown of the worst case scenario</a><h2>Catch and kill? What Nvidia is saying about Groq deal</h2>Reports citing Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said the deal’s goal is to integrate Groq’s low-latency processors into Nvidia’s AI architecture to enhance inference capabilities. He insisted that Nvidia is not acquiring Groq as a company.So, the deal is perhaps an “acqui-hire” or “reverse acqui-hire”, similar to, but not exactly the same as, Microsoft’s arrangement with Inflection AI or Meta’s deal with Scale AI.Such deals allow access to talent, IPs, and technology while avoiding the regulatory scrutiny that would have occurred in the case of a full acquisition. Note that regulators are scrutinising partial acquisitions, asset purchases, and talent transfers in AI, as firms use these structures to avoid reviews of full mergers.At least for now, the Groq deal looks different from a catch-and-kill, or the ‘killer acquisition’ policy in which promising startups are acquired mainly to eliminate competition and shelve their technology rather than developing them further.Even then, one must note that Groq was indeed a direct competitor to Nvidia in AI inference, where the latter faced more rivals than in AI training.Nvidia, for now, says it is actively planning to integrate and scale Groq’s LPU technology into its own products, including future AI factories and real-time workloads. Huang’s comments highlight an expansion of capabilities, not suppression of talent or technology, even as the deal would end Groq as an independent rival and consolidate Nvidia’s dominance in inference.

Nvidia’s reported $20bn Groq deal targets the chip startup's AI inference chip technology. By licensing its LPU tech and hiring talent, Nvidia would strengthens low-latency AI computing. But is it a catch and kill approach?

Nvidia has reportedly reached its largest-ever deal, a $20 billion licensing and talent acquisition agreement with AI chip startup Groq (not to be confused with the AI bot Grok from Elon Musk’s xAI). The deal smells like an attempt to gobble up a potential competitor, part of the “catch and kill” moves Silicon Valley’s big tech industry is notorious for. What is the deal, and why does it matter for one of the world’s top AI chipmaking giants? Here is what you should know. What is in the Groq deal with Nvidia? Started by former Google engineers in 2016, Groq makes LPU (Language Processing Unit) chips for ultra-fast, low-cost AI inference. The reported $20 billion all-cash deal includes asset purchases and non-exclusive technology licensing. These assets include Groq’s AI inference technology and intellectual property. Groq’s founder and CEO Jonathan Ross, president Sunny Madra, and other senior leaders will now be part of Nvidia talent force. This deal, if confirmed, surpasses Nvidia’s $7 billion acquisition of Mellanox in 2019. As of its September 2025 funding round, Groq was valued at $6.9 billion. GroqCloud, the cloud operations arm of the startup, is not part of the deal and will continue independently under new leadership, with CFO Simon Edwards likely to be its CEO, as per reports. Also read: Riding on AI boom, Nvidia scripts history, becomes first firm to reach $5 trillion market value Why Groq matters for Nvidia AI inference is the process of running trained AI models, such as chatbots and other real-time applications, to generate instant responses. Currently, AI inference is becoming a larger share of total AI computing demand as models move from training to deployment at scale. This possibly explains Nvidia’s growing emphasis on inference optimisation alongside its dominance in AI training. Therefore, the Groq deal could bolster AI inference leadership for Nvidia, and eventually help integrate low-latency technology into its AI chips. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nvidia-hits-5tn-market-cap-world-business-watch-wion-1761801804595/embed Why Groq’s tech is a coveted asset for Nvidia: The case for LPU chips Groq is led by ex-Googlers like Jonathan Ross, who had helped design Google’s Tensor Processing Unit (TPU). TPUs are specialised AI chips that accelerate complex AI and Machine Learning tasks behind Google's Search, Photos, Translate, and Gemini AI interface. It is also used in Google data centres, Google Cloud, devices and recommendation engines. Groq builds specialised AI accelerator chips called Language Processing Units (LPUs), designed specifically for fast, low-latency, and energy-efficient AI inference. While traditional graphics processing units (GPUs) are good at training AI models, Groq’s LPUs focus on deterministic, high-speed inference with lower power consumption. This makes them well-suited to heavier workloads that need quick token generation. Also read: What would happen to NVIDIA if China attacked Taiwan today? A factual breakdown of the worst case scenario Catch and kill? What Nvidia is saying about Groq deal Reports citing Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said the deal’s goal is to integrate Groq’s low-latency processors into Nvidia’s AI architecture to enhance inference capabilities. He insisted that Nvidia is not acquiring Groq as a company. So, the deal is perhaps an “acqui-hire” or “reverse acqui-hire”, similar to, but not exactly the same as, Microsoft’s arrangement with Inflection AI or Meta’s deal with Scale AI. Such deals allow access to talent, IPs, and technology while avoiding the regulatory scrutiny that would have occurred in the case of a full acquisition. Note that regulators are scrutinising partial acquisitions, asset purchases, and talent transfers in AI, as firms use these structures to avoid reviews of full mergers. At least for now, the Groq deal looks different from a catch-and-kill, or the ‘killer acquisition’ policy in which promising startups are acquired mainly to eliminate competition and shelve their technology rather than developing them further. Even then, one must note that Groq was indeed a direct competitor to Nvidia in AI inference, where the latter faced more rivals than in AI training. Nvidia, for now, says it is actively planning to integrate and scale Groq’s LPU technology into its own products, including future AI factories and real-time workloads. Huang’s comments highlight an expansion of capabilities, not suppression of talent or technology, even as the deal would end Groq as an independent rival and consolidate Nvidia’s dominance in inference.

Nvidia’s reported $20bn Groq deal targets the chip startup's AI inference chip technology. By licensing its LPU tech and hiring talent, Nvidia would strengthens low-latency AI computing. But is it a catch and kill approach?

Catch and kill? Why Nvidia’s record $20 billion deal with AI chip startup Groq matters

In Nigeria's Maiduguri, an explosion at a packed mosque on Wednesday (Dec 24) killed at least seven worshippers. While the anti-jihadist militia leader Babakura Kolo has said that it was a suspected bombing, no armed group has claimed responsibility for the tragic explosion.<h2>What happened?</h2>On Wednesday evening, as the Muslim faithful gathered for evening prayers, around 6:00 pm (1700 GMT), a bomb went off inside the crowded mosque in the city's Gamboru market.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-doj-receives-one-million-new-documents-when-can-we-expect-a-new-epstein-files-drop-1766634140302">Trump DOJ 'finds' million new Epstein files after deadline. When's the release?</a>Malam Abuna Yusuf, one of the mosque's leaders, told AFP that at least eight people have died, though officials have yet to release a death toll."We can confirm there has been an explosion," police spokesman Nahum Daso. He said that they suspected that a bomb had been placed inside the mosque and exploded in the middle of the prayers. Some people have also described it as a suicide attack.International NGO asks staff to stay awayAs per AFP, following the attack, an international NGO in a security alert has asked its employees to avoid the Gamboru market area.Videos of the explosion aftermath show the tragic scenes. One video shows a person covered in blood writhing in pain on the ground and bodies covered by sheets.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-doj-receives-one-million-new-documents-when-can-we-expect-a-new-epstein-files-drop-1766634140302">Trump DOJ 'finds' million new Epstein files after deadline. When's the release?</a><h2>Deadly insurgency</h2>A jihadist insurgency has plagued Nigeria since 2009; the UN reports that this conflict has resulted in at least 40,000 fatalities and the displacement of roughly two million individuals from their northeastern homes. Even though the violence has declined since its height a decade ago, it has reached Niger, Chad, and Cameroon. Moreover, there is rising anxiety about a potential return to violence in the northeastern region, where insurgent groups, despite continuous military actions over many years, are still able to launch fatal attacks.

An explosion ripped through a crowded mosque in Maiduguri, Nigeria, during evening prayers, killing at least seven worshippers. Police suspect a bomb planted inside the mosque. No group has claimed responsibility.

In Nigeria's Maiduguri, an explosion at a packed mosque on Wednesday (Dec 24) killed at least seven worshippers. While the anti-jihadist militia leader Babakura Kolo has said that it was a suspected bombing, no armed group has claimed responsibility for the tragic explosion. What happened? On Wednesday evening, as the Muslim faithful gathered for evening prayers, around 6:00 pm (1700 GMT), a bomb went off inside the crowded mosque in the city's Gamboru market. Also read | Trump DOJ 'finds' million new Epstein files after deadline. When's the release? Malam Abuna Yusuf, one of the mosque's leaders, told AFP that at least eight people have died, though officials have yet to release a death toll. "We can confirm there has been an explosion," police spokesman Nahum Daso. He said that they suspected that a bomb had been placed inside the mosque and exploded in the middle of the prayers. Some people have also described it as a suicide attack. International NGO asks staff to stay away As per AFP, following the attack, an international NGO in a security alert has asked its employees to avoid the Gamboru market area. Videos of the explosion aftermath show the tragic scenes. One video shows a person covered in blood writhing in pain on the ground and bodies covered by sheets. Also read | Trump DOJ 'finds' million new Epstein files after deadline. When's the release? Deadly insurgency A jihadist insurgency has plagued Nigeria since 2009; the UN reports that this conflict has resulted in at least 40,000 fatalities and the displacement of roughly two million individuals from their northeastern homes. Even though the violence has declined since its height a decade ago, it has reached Niger, Chad, and Cameroon. Moreover, there is rising anxiety about a potential return to violence in the northeastern region, where insurgent groups, despite continuous military actions over many years, are still able to launch fatal attacks.

An explosion ripped through a crowded mosque in Maiduguri, Nigeria, during evening prayers, killing at least seven worshippers. Police suspect a bomb planted inside the mosque. No group has claimed responsibility.

Suspected suicide attack at Mosque in Nigeria's Maiduguri kills at least 7

The newly released tranche of Epstein files by the Department of Justice (DOJ) mentions a woman saying that Donald Trump once watched her uncle kill her newborn and dump the body into the river. Her claim appears in an FBI document. The woman, who has not been named, says she was 13 at the time. As per the document, the woman said, "[Trump] participated regularly in paying money to force me to [redacted] with him and he was present when my uncle murdered my newborn child and disposed of the body in Lake Michigan." She claims that she reached out to the FBI on 8 March 2020, and told them that she was sex trafficked by her uncle and Jeffrey Epstein in 1984 at the age of 13. She was pregnant, and her newborn baby girl was killed and disposed of “because I gave birth to her while in the middle of this sex trafficking ordeal", she told the FBI.&nbsp;“I told [the FBI agent] some other important information about other high-profile individuals involved in my sex trafficking and the murder and disposal of my newborn daughter because I gave birth to her while in the middle of this ordeal,” the woman told the FBI, as per the documents. According to her, she contacted the FBI to get details of an NYPD detective whom she claimed had called her a few days before the murder.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/epstein-files-unverified-fbi-tip-trump-mar-a-lago-party-1766568516877">Epstein files allege Trump held 'party for prostitutes' in Mar-a-lago</a><h2>Epstein sex trafficked the woman, FBI documents state</h2>She said that she talked to the detective for "about 20 or 30 minutes" about being "sex trafficked" by her "uncle and Jeffrey Epstein in 1984." The woman said the incident happened “mostly from a yacht in Lake Michigan originating from Mona Lake, MI." She stated that Donald Trump was a witness to the incident and was present at the time her baby was killed.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-s-secret-science-plan-to-create-genetically-superior-humans-1766648025499/embed&nbsp;Epstein Files continue to tumble out, and on Wednesday, the DOJ announced it had discovered over 1 million documents. It is currently working on redacting the data of victims and said it will later release the files. In a social media post on Wednesday, the department said that the US Attorney for the Southern District of New York and the FBI told them “that they have uncovered over a million more documents potentially related to the Jeffrey Epstein case.” It added, “We have lawyers working around the clock to review and make the legally required redactions to protect victims, and we will release the documents as soon as possible,” the statement said. It said it would take a few more weeks to release them because of the sheer volume.&nbsp;

Epstein files released by the Department of Justice (DOJ) carry an account of a woman who claims she was sex trafficked by Epstein when she was pregnant. She claims her newborn baby was killed in front of her and thrown into the river, with Trump being a witness to it.

The newly released tranche of Epstein files by the Department of Justice (DOJ) mentions a woman saying that Donald Trump once watched her uncle kill her newborn and dump the body into the river. Her claim appears in an FBI document. The woman, who has not been named, says she was 13 at the time. As per the document, the woman said, "[Trump] participated regularly in paying money to force me to [redacted] with him and he was present when my uncle murdered my newborn child and disposed of the body in Lake Michigan." She claims that she reached out to the FBI on 8 March 2020, and told them that she was sex trafficked by her uncle and Jeffrey Epstein in 1984 at the age of 13. She was pregnant, and her newborn baby girl was killed and disposed of “because I gave birth to her while in the middle of this sex trafficking ordeal", she told the FBI. “I told [the FBI agent] some other important information about other high-profile individuals involved in my sex trafficking and the murder and disposal of my newborn daughter because I gave birth to her while in the middle of this ordeal,” the woman told the FBI, as per the documents. According to her, she contacted the FBI to get details of an NYPD detective whom she claimed had called her a few days before the murder. Also Read: Epstein files allege Trump held 'party for prostitutes' in Mar-a-lago Epstein sex trafficked the woman, FBI documents state She said that she talked to the detective for "about 20 or 30 minutes" about being "sex trafficked" by her "uncle and Jeffrey Epstein in 1984." The woman said the incident happened “mostly from a yacht in Lake Michigan originating from Mona Lake, MI." She stated that Donald Trump was a witness to the incident and was present at the time her baby was killed. https://www.wionews.com/videos/epstein-s-secret-science-plan-to-create-genetically-superior-humans-1766648025499/embed Epstein Files continue to tumble out, and on Wednesday, the DOJ announced it had discovered over 1 million documents. It is currently working on redacting the data of victims and said it will later release the files. In a social media post on Wednesday, the department said that the US Attorney for the Southern District of New York and the FBI told them “that they have uncovered over a million more documents potentially related to the Jeffrey Epstein case.” It added, “We have lawyers working around the clock to review and make the legally required redactions to protect victims, and we will release the documents as soon as possible,” the statement said. It said it would take a few more weeks to release them because of the sheer volume.

Epstein files released by the Department of Justice (DOJ) carry an account of a woman who claims she was sex trafficked by Epstein when she was pregnant. She claims her newborn baby was killed in front of her and thrown into the river, with Trump being a witness to it.

Epstein Files: Trump witnessed the killing of my newborn baby, 13-year-old girl claimed

A US defence department report has said that China is possibly seeking military bases in friendly countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar, which, if it happens, would add to its strategic encircling of India, known as the ‘string of pearls’ policy. The Pentagon report was mainly to assess Chinese national strategy, military modernisation, its nuclear arsenal of over 600 warheads as of late 2024, its goal for nine aircraft carriers by 2035, and threats to US interests. It noted that China’s defence spending nearly doubled since President Xi Jinping’s early terms. The defence department assesses that China’s historic military buildup has made the US homeland increasingly vulnerable, including through activities in the South Asian region.<h2>What does the Pentagon report say?</h2>The report titled Military and Security Developments Involving the People’s Republic of China discusses at length China's ambitions with regards to the Indo-Pacific and Taiwan.&nbsp;The report, released on December 23, is focused on China’s strategies, capabilities, leadership, forces, and activities.&nbsp;It talks about China’s activities in the Indo-Pacific, especially with regards to Taiwan and the South China Sea, its nuclear and conventional force modernisation, and global power projection.&nbsp;But what should get the eyes of Indian strategists is the report's mentions about Chinese arms exports to countries like Pakistan, its all-weather ally, and ‘potential basing considerations’ for other nations in South and Southeast Asian regions.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-take-taiwan-by-brute-force-by-2027-pentagon-drafts-report-claims-beijing-loaded-more-than-100-icbms-in-silo-fields-1766472651526">China to take Taiwan by brute force by 2027? Pentagon draft report claims Beijing loaded more than 100 ICBMs in silo fields</a><h2>Military bases for China in South Asia? What the Pentagon report said</h2>While discussing Chinese overseas military facilities, the report said that Beijing has likely considered potential People's Liberation Army logistics or basing locations in several countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in South Asia as well as Myanmar, Thailand, and Indonesia in South East Asia.The PLA’s primary interest, the report said, appears to be military access along key sea lines of communication, particularly the Malacca Strait, a crucial gateway to the Indo-Pacific."China has likely also considered basing in Angola, Bangladesh, Burma, Cuba, Equatorial Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Tanzania, United Arab Emirates, and Vanuatu."The PLA is probably most interested in military access along the sea lines of communication in the Malacca Strait, the Strait of Hormuz, and other areas in Africa and the Middle East," it said. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-s-military-shake-up-top-pla-generals-missing-xi-led-event-amid-anti-graft-purge-1766630933729/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-s-military-shake-up-top-pla-generals-missing-xi-led-event-amid-anti-graft-purge-1766630933729/embed</a><h2>China entered rapprochement with India to ensure it doesn't get closer to US?</h2>The report said that after the tensions around the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the two nations disengaged from remaining standoff sites, followed by a meeting between President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. That meeting set off monthly high-level engagements, discussing border management, direct flights, visa facilitation, and exchanges of academics and journalists.But here, the Pentagon sees the possibility that China may be capitalising on the decrease in LAC tensions to not only stabilise ties with India, but also prevent the deepening of ties between New Delhi and the US.It adds that India “probably remains sceptical of China’s actions and motives”, with continued mutual distrust limiting the relationship. The report notes that China extends the term “core interest” to cover territorial disputes, including the north-eastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-report-highlights-china-s-military-ties-with-pakistan-and-cautious-thaw-with-india-1766558928586">Pentagon report highlights China's military ties with Pakistan and cautious thaw with India</a><h2>China’s arming of South Asian nations</h2>The report highlighted significant Chinese arms sales and exports to South Asian countries, with Pakistan being a major recipient. Chinese military equipment with Pakistan includes 20 J-10C multirole combat aircraft delivered in 2025 as part of a total of 36 since 2020. There are also strike-capable Caihong and Wing Loong UAVs, four frigates sold in 2018, as well as the co-production of the JF-17 light combat aircraft.Bangladesh, meanwhile, has received two Ming-class submarines delivered in 2016, two frigates sold in 2017, and the first exports of VT-5 light tanks in 2024, the report notes.<h2>Why India should take note of Pentagon report on China</h2>What the Pentagon report mentioned as China’s ‘military basing’ ambitions in South Asia is one more step towards the already known ‘string of pearls’ strategy. This, in effect, is the strategic encirclement of India with commercial and military ports and bases around both its eastern and western coastlines. China's activities have been aimed at accessing and monitoring maritime routes along the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Its quest for military/commercial facilities or logistics hubs in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, or Myanmar would allow the PLA a consistent presence close to India’s eastern and western seaboards. This would require India to bolster its naval planning and improve its surveillance and response capabilities.&nbsp;The ‘string of pearls’ strategy, recently presented as part of projects like the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, has been focused on ports and infrastructure across the Indian Ocean.Now, it appears to be evolving into a more overt military access and potential basing.&nbsp;China's near-term ambition appears to be to use its economic leverage, arms supplies, and dual-use infrastructure for regular PLA deployments or PLA Navy's port calls.&nbsp;In the long-term, it would want to strengthens positions all across the Indo-Pacific while indirectly containing India.&nbsp;

A Pentagon report warns China may seek military bases in South Asia, including Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. This should make Indian strategic community sit up and take note, as China's well-known ‘string of pearls’ strategy to contain India may be expending.

A US defence department report has said that China is possibly seeking military bases in friendly countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar, which, if it happens, would add to its strategic encircling of India, known as the ‘string of pearls’ policy. The Pentagon report was mainly to assess Chinese national strategy, military modernisation, its nuclear arsenal of over 600 warheads as of late 2024, its goal for nine aircraft carriers by 2035, and threats to US interests. It noted that China’s defence spending nearly doubled since President Xi Jinping’s early terms. The defence department assesses that China’s historic military buildup has made the US homeland increasingly vulnerable, including through activities in the South Asian region. What does the Pentagon report say? The report titled Military and Security Developments Involving the People’s Republic of China discusses at length China's ambitions with regards to the Indo-Pacific and Taiwan. The report, released on December 23, is focused on China’s strategies, capabilities, leadership, forces, and activities. It talks about China’s activities in the Indo-Pacific, especially with regards to Taiwan and the South China Sea, its nuclear and conventional force modernisation, and global power projection. But what should get the eyes of Indian strategists is the report's mentions about Chinese arms exports to countries like Pakistan, its all-weather ally, and ‘potential basing considerations’ for other nations in South and Southeast Asian regions. Also read: China to take Taiwan by brute force by 2027? Pentagon draft report claims Beijing loaded more than 100 ICBMs in silo fields Military bases for China in South Asia? What the Pentagon report said While discussing Chinese overseas military facilities, the report said that Beijing has likely considered potential People's Liberation Army logistics or basing locations in several countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in South Asia as well as Myanmar, Thailand, and Indonesia in South East Asia. The PLA’s primary interest, the report said, appears to be military access along key sea lines of communication, particularly the Malacca Strait, a crucial gateway to the Indo-Pacific. "China has likely also considered basing in Angola, Bangladesh, Burma, Cuba, Equatorial Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Tanzania, United Arab Emirates, and Vanuatu. "The PLA is probably most interested in military access along the sea lines of communication in the Malacca Strait, the Strait of Hormuz, and other areas in Africa and the Middle East," it said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-s-military-shake-up-top-pla-generals-missing-xi-led-event-amid-anti-graft-purge-1766630933729/embed China entered rapprochement with India to ensure it doesn't get closer to US? The report said that after the tensions around the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the two nations disengaged from remaining standoff sites, followed by a meeting between President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. That meeting set off monthly high-level engagements, discussing border management, direct flights, visa facilitation, and exchanges of academics and journalists. But here, the Pentagon sees the possibility that China may be capitalising on the decrease in LAC tensions to not only stabilise ties with India, but also prevent the deepening of ties between New Delhi and the US. It adds that India “probably remains sceptical of China’s actions and motives”, with continued mutual distrust limiting the relationship. The report notes that China extends the term “core interest” to cover territorial disputes, including the north-eastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. Also read: Pentagon report highlights China's military ties with Pakistan and cautious thaw with India China’s arming of South Asian nations The report highlighted significant Chinese arms sales and exports to South Asian countries, with Pakistan being a major recipient. Chinese military equipment with Pakistan includes 20 J-10C multirole combat aircraft delivered in 2025 as part of a total of 36 since 2020. There are also strike-capable Caihong and Wing Loong UAVs, four frigates sold in 2018, as well as the co-production of the JF-17 light combat aircraft. Bangladesh, meanwhile, has received two Ming-class submarines delivered in 2016, two frigates sold in 2017, and the first exports of VT-5 light tanks in 2024, the report notes. Why India should take note of Pentagon report on China What the Pentagon report mentioned as China’s ‘military basing’ ambitions in South Asia is one more step towards the already known ‘string of pearls’ strategy. This, in effect, is the strategic encirclement of India with commercial and military ports and bases around both its eastern and western coastlines. China's activities have been aimed at accessing and monitoring maritime routes along the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Its quest for military/commercial facilities or logistics hubs in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, or Myanmar would allow the PLA a consistent presence close to India’s eastern and western seaboards. This would require India to bolster its naval planning and improve its surveillance and response capabilities. The ‘string of pearls’ strategy, recently presented as part of projects like the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, has been focused on ports and infrastructure across the Indian Ocean. Now, it appears to be evolving into a more overt military access and potential basing. China's near-term ambition appears to be to use its economic leverage, arms supplies, and dual-use infrastructure for regular PLA deployments or PLA Navy's port calls. In the long-term, it would want to strengthens positions all across the Indo-Pacific while indirectly containing India.

A Pentagon report warns China may seek military bases in South Asia, including Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. This should make Indian strategic community sit up and take note, as China's well-known ‘string of pearls’ strategy to contain India may be expending.

China wants military bases in friendly countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar? Why India should take note of Pentagon report

US President Donald Trump, on Christmas Eve, answered calls from children while vacationing in his home, asking what they were expecting for Christmas. First lady Melania Trump also joined in the calls. This was part of the 70-year-old tradition of NORAD Santa-tracking, a community outreach programme that relies on volunteers to simulate the tracking of a Santa sleigh and delivering presents.&nbsp;During one call with a 10-year-old asked about tracking the movements of Santa. Trump responded that they track Santa all over the world. They want to make sure that Santa is a good person.&nbsp;"We want to make sure that he's not infiltrated, that we're not infiltrating into our country a bad Santa. But we found out that Santa is good, Santa loves you, Santa loves Oklahoma, as I do. You know, Oklahoma was very good to me in the election, so I love Oklahoma. Don't ever leave Oklahoma, OK?" said Trump.In another call with an 8-year-old from Kansas told her she doesn't want Santa to get her coal as a present. The US President Donald Trump, who is a climate change denier, pushed a lot of mining projects, and cancelled leases for offshore wind projects, said, “You mean clean, beautiful coal.” But soon he backtracked, apologised and said &nbsp;“had to do that.”"Coal is clean and beautiful, please remember that at all costs. But you don't want clean, beautiful coal, right?" said Trump&nbsp;The child replied no.&nbsp;However, Trump was in a cheerful and jubilant mood; he expressed that he could do this whole day, but he had more pressing matters to attend to, like stopping the Russia-Ukraine war. He later posted on Truth Social, wishing a “Merry Christmas to all, including the Radical Left Scum.”

US President Donald Trump fielded NORAD Santa-tracking calls on Christmas Eve, joking about a “bad Santa,” coal, and later attacking critics on Truth Social.

US President Donald Trump, on Christmas Eve, answered calls from children while vacationing in his home, asking what they were expecting for Christmas. First lady Melania Trump also joined in the calls. This was part of the 70-year-old tradition of NORAD Santa-tracking, a community outreach programme that relies on volunteers to simulate the tracking of a Santa sleigh and delivering presents. During one call with a 10-year-old asked about tracking the movements of Santa. Trump responded that they track Santa all over the world. They want to make sure that Santa is a good person. "We want to make sure that he's not infiltrated, that we're not infiltrating into our country a bad Santa. But we found out that Santa is good, Santa loves you, Santa loves Oklahoma, as I do. You know, Oklahoma was very good to me in the election, so I love Oklahoma. Don't ever leave Oklahoma, OK?" said Trump. In another call with an 8-year-old from Kansas told her she doesn't want Santa to get her coal as a present. The US President Donald Trump, who is a climate change denier, pushed a lot of mining projects, and cancelled leases for offshore wind projects, said, “You mean clean, beautiful coal.” But soon he backtracked, apologised and said “had to do that.” "Coal is clean and beautiful, please remember that at all costs. But you don't want clean, beautiful coal, right?" said Trump The child replied no. However, Trump was in a cheerful and jubilant mood; he expressed that he could do this whole day, but he had more pressing matters to attend to, like stopping the Russia-Ukraine war. He later posted on Truth Social, wishing a “Merry Christmas to all, including the Radical Left Scum.”

US President Donald Trump fielded NORAD Santa-tracking calls on Christmas Eve, joking about a “bad Santa,” coal, and later attacking critics on Truth Social.

Trump's Christmas eve call with children: 'Bad Santa' infiltration and pro-coal talk

Aspiring prime minister and son of former PM Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman has returned to Bangladesh on Thursday (Dec 25) after 17 years in self-imposed exile. Rahman, 60, hugged his supporters as he touched down at the Dhaka airport, accompanied by his wife Dr Zubaid, daughter Zaima and pet cat Zeebu, according to a video released by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Upon his arrival, BNP leader Tarique Rahman made a post on Facebook: “Finally in Sylhet, on the soil of Bangladesh!” Chief Adviser of the interim government, Shafiqul Alam, said that Muhammad Yunus-led Bangladeshi government is making "every effort" to ensure adequate security for Tarique Rahman. Tha airports authority imposed a 24-hour ban on visitors at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to manage the crowd. Videos from outside the airport shows supporters gathering in large numbers to welcome the leader.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">VIDEO | Dhaka: BNP Acting chairperson Tarique Rahman arrives in the Bangladeshi capital to a rousing welcome, weeks before the country goes to parliamentary elections. Son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, Tarique Rahman had been living in exile in London since 2008 in… <a href="https://t.co/cJz4XGzfYb">pic.twitter.com/cJz4XGzfYb</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2004089090577518782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BNP&#39;s Tarique Rahman en route to Dhaka after over 15 years in exile <a href="https://t.co/bllE3Qcrce">pic.twitter.com/bllE3Qcrce</a>&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/2004020739176124516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Rahman, the son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia and heir apparent of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), shook hands with party leaders after touching down at the Dhaka airport. Rahman left Bangladesh for London in 2008 after what he has described as political persecution. As acting chairman of the BNP, Rahman will lead the party through the February 12 general election, the first polls since ex-premier Sheikh Hasina's exit following a student-led uprising last year. The BNP is widely seen as an election frontrunner. BNP chief Khaleda Zia, is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Dhaka.

Tarique Rahman, son of ex-PM Khaleda Zia, returned to Bangladesh after 17 years in self-imposed exile. The 60-year-old BNP leader arrived in Dhaka with his family, greeted supporters at the airport, marking a major moment in national politics.

Aspiring prime minister and son of former PM Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman has returned to Bangladesh on Thursday (Dec 25) after 17 years in self-imposed exile. Rahman, 60, hugged his supporters as he touched down at the Dhaka airport, accompanied by his wife Dr Zubaid, daughter Zaima and pet cat Zeebu, according to a video released by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Upon his arrival, BNP leader Tarique Rahman made a post on Facebook: “Finally in Sylhet, on the soil of Bangladesh!” Chief Adviser of the interim government, Shafiqul Alam, said that Muhammad Yunus-led Bangladeshi government is making "every effort" to ensure adequate security for Tarique Rahman. Tha airports authority imposed a 24-hour ban on visitors at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to manage the crowd. Videos from outside the airport shows supporters gathering in large numbers to welcome the leader.

Tarique Rahman, son of ex-PM Khaleda Zia, returned to Bangladesh after 17 years in self-imposed exile. The 60-year-old BNP leader arrived in Dhaka with his family, greeted supporters at the airport, marking a major moment in national politics.

Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman returns to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile, gets grand welcome - FIRST pic here

A major outage has hit ad Amazon Web Services (AWS), severely impacting several popular online gaming platforms, according to outage-tracking website Downdetector. Thousands of users were affected worldwide, including the US. Over 4,000 users were impacted by the outage in the US, while nearly 35,000 players across the world reported being unable to connect to its servers.&nbsp;The AWS is yet to respond on the outage that began on Wednesday. The disruption is not only limited to individual games, but related platforms like Epic Games Store and PlayStation Network have also been impacted, claim users on various social media platforms.&nbsp;This has come at a time when when online gaming activity typically surges, thus adding to the frustration of gamers.<h2>Frequent outages becoming norm?</h2>Such incidents have become a frequent occurrenc. In October , a large AWS outage affected platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Perplexity AI and Snapchat. Thousands of users had reported problems then, according to Downdetector. Roblox, McDonald’s, Coinbase, Canva and Goodreads were among other platforms to be affected.&nbsp;While in November, Cloudflare, which protects millions of websites from cyberattacks, suffered faced a short outage due to which platforms like Zerodha, Groww, Canva and Downdetector had to face problems.&nbsp;

The Amazon Web Services (AWS) disruption is not only limited to individual games, but many related platforms have also been impacted by the outage.

A major outage has hit ad Amazon Web Services (AWS), severely impacting several popular online gaming platforms, according to outage-tracking website Downdetector. Thousands of users were affected worldwide, including the US. Over 4,000 users were impacted by the outage in the US, while nearly 35,000 players across the world reported being unable to connect to its servers. The AWS is yet to respond on the outage that began on Wednesday. The disruption is not only limited to individual games, but related platforms like Epic Games Store and PlayStation Network have also been impacted, claim users on various social media platforms. This has come at a time when when online gaming activity typically surges, thus adding to the frustration of gamers. Frequent outages becoming norm? Such incidents have become a frequent occurrenc. In October , a large AWS outage affected platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Perplexity AI and Snapchat. Thousands of users had reported problems then, according to Downdetector. Roblox, McDonald’s, Coinbase, Canva and Goodreads were among other platforms to be affected. While in November, Cloudflare, which protects millions of websites from cyberattacks, suffered faced a short outage due to which platforms like Zerodha, Groww, Canva and Downdetector had to face problems.

The Amazon Web Services (AWS) disruption is not only limited to individual games, but many related platforms have also been impacted by the outage.

AWS faces disruption, several online gaming platforms affected. Here's what to know

Tourism in Cambodia and Thailand has slumped as month-long border clashes trigger travel cancellations and closures. The crisis coincides with Thailand’s snap February election after PM Anutin dissolved parliament. Despite truce talks, fighting continues

Thailand, Cambodia clashes continue even as truce talks begin; China, India back dialouge, snap polls ahead

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Pope Leo calls out Palestinian suffering in Gaza in his first Christmas sermon

Turkey thwarts planned attacks on Christmas, arrests over 100

Another Hindu man lynched in Bangladesh, days after Dipu Das burnt alive by mob

Christmas 2025: How the world celebrated the festival across continents

How will scrapping H-1B lottery affect India’s IT industry? Nasscom raises alarm

A billion-dollar Christmas: Arkansas player wins $1.87bn Powerball prize

China to deploy humanoid robot for patrolling at the Vietnam border

Yunus govt destroyed Bangladesh, giving security to goons, terrorists: Former MP

Thailand justifies Vishnu statue demolition, cites soldiers’ lives

‘Targeted for criticising Asim Munir’: Imran Khan’s aide assaulted in UK

'Liberation of 2024, sacrifice by Hadi, and hope for unity': Tarique Rahman pitches 'new Bangladesh' plan in first speech after arrival

North Korea slams US-Seoul deal, shows progress on 8,700-tonne nuclear submarine

China slams US report suggesting border easing aimed at India-US ties

AI threatens jobs held by women nearly twice in comparison to men: Study

Bangladesh chaos worsens: Home ministry official resigns, Tarique Rahman returns

Why Nvidia’s record $20 billion deal with AI chip startup Groq matters

Suspected suicide attack at Mosque in Nigeria's Maiduguri kills at least 7

Epstein Files: Trump witnessed the killing of my newborn baby, girl told FBI

China wants military bases in Bangladesh, Myanmar? What India should note...

Trump's Christmas eve chat: 'Bad Santa' infiltration and pro-coal talk

Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman returns to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile

AWS faces disruption, several online gaming platforms affected

Temple tension and truce talks: What's happening now in Thailand-Cambodia border