Egypt’s Grand Mufti Sheikh Nazir Ayad has denounced a fatwa issued by the Qatar-based International Union of Muslim Scholars (IUMS) calling for jihad against Israel, labeling it “irresponsible” and a violation of Sharia principles. The fatwa urged all able Muslims to take up arms and demanded immediate military, political, and economic action from Muslim countries. Ayad stressed that only legitimate state authorities have the mandate to declare war.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a three-month suspension of retaliatory tariffs on most countries while increasing tariffs on Chinese imports to 125%.

On Truth Social, Trump wrote: “Due to China’s disrespect for global markets, we are imposing a 125% tariff on their goods, effective immediately.” U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent praised Trump’s bold move, stating that countries willing to negotiate will be rewarded.

Following the announcement, U.S. stock indices surged. Notably, Trump made this decision shortly after receiving a letter from Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, requesting a temporary suspension of the tariffs.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that Bangladesh’s transshipment facility, granted in 2020 for exporting goods to third countries, has caused significant congestion at Indian airports. This has led to delays, increased costs, and shipment hold-ups for Indian exporters.

As a result, India has decided to withdraw the transshipment facility for Bangladesh. However, trade with Nepal and Bhutan via Bangladesh will remain unaffected.

On Wednesday, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Syed Ahmed Maroof, paid a courtesy call on Information Adviser Md Mahfuz Alam. During the meeting, the High Commissioner expressed interest in signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Bangladesh Television (BTV) and Pakistan Television (PTV), as well as between Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) and the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP). The adviser also discussed the possibility of broadcasting Bangladeshi TV channels in Pakistan with government support.

Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur led a delegation to London from March 17 to 21 as part of a high-profile diplomatic initiative to recover laundered assets and participate in global workshops on financial inclusion and interconnectivity.

As head of the asset recovery task force, Governor Mansur was the keynote guest at a meeting held at Portcullis House, UK Parliament. The event was attended by UK MPs Jo Powell, Rupa Huq, Baroness Uddin, and former Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk.

During the meeting, Dr. Mansur called for stronger cooperation in recovering stolen wealth and urged the UK government to impose sanctions on those involved in money laundering. He also met with Catherine West, Minister for Asia at the UK Foreign Office, expressing gratitude for the UK’s support. The visit included engagements with legal professionals and media representatives to build momentum around the issue.

In a sharp escalation of trade tensions, China has announced an 84% tariff on all American goods, effective from Thursday. This move comes in retaliation to the United States imposing a 104% tariff on Chinese imports, which Beijing has described as “oppressive.”

The Chinese Ministry of Finance stated that the new tariffs are a necessary response to the U.S.‘s aggressive trade policies. Analysts believe this development marks the beginning of another round of trade war between the world’s two largest economies—raising concerns about potential negative impacts on the global economy.

Despite the escalation, China has expressed its willingness to engage in dialogue with the U.S. government to resolve the conflict. In a white paper released on Wednesday, Beijing emphasized its consistent efforts to maintain mutually beneficial trade relations with Washington. The document acknowledges that trade disputes are “normal” but stresses the importance of safeguarding China’s national interests.

During a meeting with UK Trade Envoy to Bangladesh, Baroness Rosie Winterton, Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus called for enhanced cooperation with the UK to strengthen Bangladesh’s healthcare system. Regarding the upcoming national election, Dr. Yunus stated, “If political parties can agree on a short-term reform process, elections could be held in December. However, if a broader reform agenda is adopted, elections may be pushed to June.” Baroness Winterton expressed satisfaction with the reform roadmap, noting the strong historical ties between the two nations. Dr. Yunus emphasized Bangladesh’s transition period, highlighting a shortage of nurses. “Nursing is not only a national issue—it’s a global need. We aim to train more nurses for both Bangladesh and the world,” he added, seeking comprehensive UK support across sectors.

In a recent interview, Press Secretary Shafiqur Alam emphasized that a surge in foreign direct investment (FDI) could lead to an employment boom in Bangladesh. Citing Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, he noted the country’s urgent need for large-scale FDI to create massive employment opportunities.

“We need to knock on every door and say, ‘We are ready—come and invest,’” he said. Shafiqur added that wherever he travels—be it China, the US, New York, or Dublin—he presents Bangladesh as an attractive investment destination.

“If this happens, there will be a flood of jobs in the country,” he said, stressing that these jobs must be quality positions, not ineffective or low-grade ones. He also pointed out the need for stronger infrastructure and logistical support to accommodate such growth and mentioned that establishing Bangladesh as a global manufacturing hub is a dream of the Chief Adviser.

Faiz Ahmad Tayyab, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, has requested that the ‘March for Gaza’ rally scheduled for April 12 be postponed by a week. He cited the Bangladesh Investment Summit taking place from April 9, with over 600 investors from 50 countries visiting various companies, EPZs, high-tech parks, and startups. He urged organizers to consider the international presence and adjust the program accordingly. He also reiterated the Chief Adviser’s condemnation of Israeli aggression.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Bangladesh Investment Summit 2025, Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus stated that Bangladesh possesses groundbreaking ideas capable of transforming the world. “There are immense business opportunities here,” he said. “These ventures are not just beneficial for Bangladesh but can create global impact.” He cited microcredit as an example, which started in a small Bangladeshi village and eventually became a major financial industry in the United States. Dr. Yunus became emotional while recalling the Liberation War. Awards were presented to Walton (domestic investor), bKash (foreign investor), Square Pharmaceuticals, and Square Fabrics for their contributions. Korean Export Processing Zone Chairman Ki-Hak Sung received honorary citizenship under a special category.

Starting Wednesday, the United States is enforcing a 104% tariff on a range of Chinese goods, following an announcement by former President Donald Trump. Earlier, on April 2, a 34% tariff was imposed, adding to a previous 20% duty. In retaliation, China announced a 34% tariff on U.S. goods last Friday. Trump warned of an additional 50% tariff if China does not retract its decision. China’s response measures take effect from Thursday.

According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), the country’s GDP growth rate rose to 4.48% in the October–December quarter, up from 1.81% in the previous quarter (July–September). In compliance with IMF guidelines, Bangladesh now releases quarterly GDP figures. The report notes modest growth in agriculture and services sectors, while industrial growth also saw improvement, albeit at a slower pace.

India’s stock market suffered a significant crash on Monday, sparing almost no major corporation—including the likes of Tata, Adani, and Ambani.

Fearing losses, investors dumped shares en masse, leading to a steep decline across the board. The National Stock Exchange’s Nifty index fell by over 3.25%, while the Sensex dropped nearly 3% the same day.

Analysts link the crash to recent tariff-related announcements by U.S. President Donald Trump. The U.S. Federal Reserve has since issued a warning to the Trump administration, stating that imposing new tariffs could hinder the country’s economic growth.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus told Chinese investors that Bangladesh is experiencing its most favorable investment climate in history. He encouraged increased foreign investment and the relocation of Chinese and South Korean manufacturing units to Bangladesh. The BIDA Chairman will host monthly breakfast meetings with Korean and Chinese investors, some of which the Chief Adviser himself will attend. A hotline and call center for rapid problem resolution have also been proposed. “Our market is ready. You can also export to landlocked countries like Nepal and Bhutan,” Yunus added.

Seventeen individuals have been arrested in Sylhet in connection with vandalism, looting, and attacks that occurred during an anti-Israel protest. The arrests were made after police discovered an online advertisement offering looted shoes for sale. Acting as buyers, police detained the seller and recovered some of the stolen items. Subsequent raids—guided by CCTV footage and viral social media videos—led to the arrest of the following individuals:
1. Md. Rajon (19), son of Md. Raja Mia, Kazitula
2. Imon (19), son of Arab Ali, Kazitula
3. Md. Rakib (19), son of Din Islam
4. Mizan Ahmed (30), son of Sad Ahmed
5. Md. Abdul Motaleb (35), son of the late Abul Bashar Mia, Saudagartula
6. Sabbir Ahmed (19), son of Liakat Ali, Goyatula
7. Junaid Ahmed (19), son of Farid Mia, Companiganj
8. Md. Robin Mia (20), son of the late Mostafa Mia, Mirer Moydan
9. Mostakin Ahmed Tuhin (19), son of Mohsun Ahmed, Shahi Eidgah
10. Md. Delwar Hossain (30), son of Abdul Sattar, Dargah Gate
11. Riyad (24), son of Shamim Ahmed, Shekghat
12. Md. Tuhin (24), son of Dulal Mia, Baluchar Natun Bazar
13. Al Nafiu (19), son of Selim Reza, Bateshwar Bazar
14. Syed Al Amin Tushar (29), son of Syed Altaf Manik, Noakhali
15. Md. Sohel Khan (42), son of the late Yusuf Ali, Gobindrashri, Beanibazar
16. Suman Mia Rupom (35), son of Shah Noor Mia, Siddorpasha, Jagannathpur, Sunamganj
17. Arun Malakar (35), son of the late Nondon Malakar, Janaiya, Bishwanath

The operation began on Monday night and continued into Tuesday. Authorities confirm that a case has been filed regarding the incident, and further operations are ongoing to identify and arrest others involved. Surveillance efforts have also extended to online platforms to prevent the resale of looted goods and to track digital evidence of the violence.