Iran has officially released the death toll from recent anti-government protests for the first time. According to a report by state television Press TV on Wednesday, citing the Interior Ministry, a total of 3,117 people were killed across the country. The Martyrs Foundation stated that among the dead were 2,427 civilians and members of the security forces. Tehran described the protests as 'foreign-backed terrorist activities.'

Ali Akbar Pourjamshidian, secretary of Iran’s National Security Council, told Press TV that those who engaged in violence, including attacks on government and military facilities, were classified as 'terrorist-rioters.' Meanwhile, the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported a higher death toll of 4,560 since the protests began.

The demonstrations started on December 28 in response to rising living costs and severe inflation, spreading across the country in the following weeks.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former caretaker government adviser and prominent civil society figure M Hafiz Uddin Khan. In a condolence message issued on Wednesday, Yunus recalled Khan’s long career dedicated to the welfare of the state and its people, describing him as an honest, wise, and responsible public servant whose integrity and moral stance remain exemplary.

Professor Yunus also noted his personal connection with Khan, calling him a classmate and close friend whose wisdom, humanity, and candor enriched his life. He said Khan’s honesty, dedication, and competence in public service, along with his later contributions to promoting good governance, would be remembered with respect by the nation.

Hafiz Uddin Khan passed away on Wednesday evening due to old age. He had served as secretary in the ministries of Posts, Telecommunications, and others, and as adviser to the caretaker government in 2001 overseeing finance, planning, and several other ministries.

U.S. President Donald Trump warned that Hamas would be wiped out if it did not disarm within the next few weeks. He made the statement on Wednesday during his address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, according to the Times of Israel. Trump claimed that Hamas had agreed to lay down its weapons, though the Palestinian group has not publicly confirmed any such decision.

Trump said disarming would be difficult for Hamas but insisted the group was willing to do so, adding that the situation would become clear within two to three days or at most three weeks. He also stated that 59 countries had expressed interest in joining an international stabilization force in Gaza aimed at eliminating Hamas. However, many nations were reportedly reluctant to send troops, and Azerbaijan had already declined participation.

According to Trump’s Gaza peace plan, the second phase involves gradual disarmament, technology-based governance, and reconstruction. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed anger over U.S. plans to include Turkey and Qatar in Gaza’s administration, declaring that no forces from those countries would be allowed to enter Gaza.

The Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) has finalized campaign guidelines for candidates in the 13th national parliamentary election, scheduled in 20 days. Returning officers completed symbol allocations on Wednesday, and official campaigning began Thursday, continuing until 10 February at 7:30 a.m. The EC urged all candidates and parties to strictly follow the code of conduct to ensure a free, fair, and neutral election.

Under the new rules, candidates are prohibited from using posters for the first time in the country’s election history. Campaign materials must be black and white, with strict size limits for banners, leaflets, handbills, and festoons. The use of polythene, rexine, or any non-biodegradable material is banned. Candidates may use up to 20 billboards per constituency, and only their own portrait or the party leader’s image may appear on campaign materials. Public rallies require 24-hour prior notice to authorities and must not obstruct public movement.

The EC also restricted the use of vehicles, torches, and aircraft in campaigns and introduced penalties for spreading false or AI-generated misinformation. Violations may result in fines, imprisonment, or even cancellation of candidacy.

The United Kingdom’s House of Lords voted on Wednesday in favor of banning social media use for children under 16. The amendment, introduced by Conservative lawmaker John Nash and supported by members of the Labour and Liberal Democrat parties, passed with 261 votes to 150. The decision increases pressure on the government to adopt stricter measures similar to those implemented in Australia. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said earlier that he would not rule out any options for child protection but prefers to await the outcome of an ongoing consultation process before legislating.

The proposal will now move to the Labour-controlled House of Commons, where over 60 Labour MPs have urged the prime minister to support the ban. Public sentiment appears strongly in favor, with a December YouGov poll showing 74 percent of Britons supporting such restrictions. Actor Hugh Grant and other public figures have also called on the government to back the measure, arguing that parents alone cannot shield children from social media’s harmful effects.

Some child protection groups, however, warned that a blanket ban could create a false sense of security among parents and society. The Online Safety Act already mandates strict age verification for harmful online content.

India has been accused of turning cricket from a tool of soft power into an instrument of regional dominance, particularly against Bangladesh. The controversy began after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly instructed an Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise to drop Bangladeshi cricketer Mustafizur Rahman, citing political concerns over attacks on minority communities in Bangladesh. In response, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) requested to move its upcoming T20 World Cup matches from India to Sri Lanka and the government banned IPL broadcasts, escalating the dispute.

The article describes how this sports-related conflict follows a sharp deterioration in diplomatic relations between Dhaka and New Delhi, marked by reciprocal ambassador summons and attacks on diplomatic missions. Analysts suggest that India’s coercive cricket diplomacy risks alienating a key regional partner and undermining its “Neighbourhood First” policy. The move could push Bangladesh closer to China and Pakistan, both of which are expanding their strategic presence in the region.

The report warns that India’s use of cricket as a political weapon contradicts its long-term strategic interests and may deepen regional isolation rather than strengthen influence.

According to the report, multiple diplomatic and political sources claim that India has intensified anti-Bangladesh activities in New Delhi just weeks before Bangladesh’s upcoming parliamentary election. These include press conferences by exiled Awami League leaders, the withdrawal of Indian diplomats from Dhaka, and seminars portraying a supposed rise of Islamic extremism in Bangladesh. A major event is scheduled in Delhi where Sheikh Hasina, described as convicted of crimes against humanity, is expected to appear publicly for the first time since taking refuge in India in August 2024.

Analysts cited in the report argue that Indian policymakers are unwilling to accept an election without the Awami League and are concerned about the growing popularity of Islamic parties. They view Delhi’s actions as attempts to label Bangladesh as fundamentalist and undermine the interim government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus. The Bangladeshi government has reportedly protested these activities, but the Modi administration has ignored the objections.

Experts warn that the situation could escalate as the election nears, urging vigilance against provocations and calling the developments a serious diplomatic concern.

Akhter Hossen, member secretary of the National Citizen Party (NCP), has called for public cooperation in his campaign for the Rangpur-4 (Kaunia–Pirgacha) constituency in the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election. In a Facebook post on Wednesday night, he urged citizens to contribute through prayers, donations, and active participation as formal election campaigning begins.

Hossen emphasized that community involvement is vital for his campaign’s success, inviting supporters to assist with logistics such as leaflets, banners, rallies, and social media promotion. He also shared details for financial contributions through bank and mobile payment channels, encouraging even small donations. Additionally, he invited volunteers to join a WhatsApp group to help with online campaigning, including video editing and content creation.

The NCP candidate expressed optimism about his connection with local voters and called on residents of Kaunia–Pirgacha, well-wishers across the country, and expatriates to stand by him in his electoral efforts.

In Rangpur, political leaders, freedom fighters, and local residents have demanded the arrest of Jatiya Party Chairman GM Quader and a ban on his party after he publicly supported the 'No' vote in the upcoming national referendum. The demand followed Quader’s Tuesday press conference at the party’s central office, where he declared his position against the referendum. On Wednesday, leaders from BNP, Jamaat, NCP, and local groups expressed strong reactions, accusing the Jatiya Party of long-standing support for the Awami League and benefiting from past authoritarian regimes.

Local figures, including business leaders and political activists, criticized the Election Commission for allowing the Jatiya Party to participate in the election, calling it a betrayal of the nation. They alleged that the party opposed the July student and public movement and acted in favor of fascism. Regional coordinators and opposition leaders reiterated that Quader’s stance destabilizes the country and urged the interim government to take legal action against him and his party.

Jatiya Party Co-Chairman Mostafizur Rahman Mostafa confirmed that the party would continue to campaign for the 'No' vote in the referendum.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) formally begins its campaign for the 13th parliamentary election today, Thursday, January 22, 2026. Party chairman Tareq Rahman is leading the launch from Sylhet, where he will address a mass rally at 11 a.m. at the historic Sylhet Government Alia Madrasa ground. Before the rally, he will meet young people at the Grand Sylhet Hotel and Resort. Tareq Rahman arrived in Sylhet on Wednesday night with his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman and senior BNP leaders, marking his first visit to his in-laws’ home in 21 years.

The city of Sylhet has been decorated with banners, festoons, and a large stage for the event, while law enforcement has implemented a six-tier security plan. During his stay, Rahman visited the shrines of Hazrat Shahjalal (R) and Hazrat Shah Paran (R), as well as the grave of Liberation War commander M.A.G. Osmani. BNP sources said the campaign will emphasize positive politics and counter misinformation. Following the Sylhet rally, Rahman will attend several election meetings across Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Brahmanbaria, Kishoreganj, Narsingdi, and Narayanganj before returning to Dhaka tonight.

Mahmudur Rahman Manna, president of Nagorik Oikya, has announced his candidacy from both Bogura-2 and Dhaka-18 constituencies in the upcoming parliamentary election. Although BNP had earlier pledged to leave Bogura-2 for Manna as part of an electoral understanding, the party ultimately nominated its own candidate there. The deadline for withdrawal of nominations has passed, yet no final decision has been made on whether BNP will vacate any seat for Manna, leaving the alliance’s seat-sharing deal unresolved.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir had declared on December 24 that Bogura-2 would be left for Manna, but the returning officer initially rejected his nomination, which was later reinstated by the Election Commission. BNP has nominated Mir Shah Alam for Bogura-2 and SM Jahangir Hossain for Dhaka-18, while Manna’s nominations for both seats remain valid. BNP’s election committee chairman Nazrul Islam Khan said discussions are ongoing to settle the issue.

Nagorik Oikya leaders stated that no recent formal talks have been held with BNP. They expressed frustration that despite earlier assurances, BNP fielded its own candidate in Bogura-2, creating confusion within the opposition alliance.

Ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election, joint patrol operations by the Bangladesh Navy and police have been strengthened in Charfassion upazila of Bhola to maintain law and order. On Wednesday, the forces conducted daylong and evening patrols across Dakshin Aicha Thana Bazar, Notun Bazar, and Baburhat Bazar areas. During the patrols, officers interacted with traders, residents, and pedestrians, urging public cooperation to preserve a peaceful electoral environment.

Law enforcement officials warned that any attempt to incite violence, intimidation, or unrest related to the election would face strict legal action. The patrol teams also carried out searches of suspicious individuals and vehicles at key market points and advised locals to immediately report any unusual activities to nearby police stations.

Lieutenant Commander Rafayet Bin Ferdous stated that the joint patrols would continue regularly in major markets, crowded zones, and vulnerable areas of Charfassion until the election concludes, emphasizing that any attempt to spread rumors or provoke disorder would be firmly suppressed.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has added nine new members, including four women, to its National Election Steering Committee. The decision was made on Wednesday night at a meeting held at the party’s central office in Moghbazar, Dhaka. The new members are former secretary Dr. Khondaker Kh M Kabirul Islam, Dr. Khalilur Rahman Madani, Oli Ullah Noman, Shahidul Islam, Dr. Anwarul Azim, Nurunnisa Siddika, Saeeda Rumman, Dr. Habiba Chowdhury Sweet, and Ayesha Siddika Parveen.

The meeting was chaired by Assistant Secretary General and Committee President ATM Masum, with Member Secretary and Assistant Secretary General Maulana Abdul Halim conducting the session. Other committee members were also present. Discussions covered the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election and a planned referendum, as well as the activities of various committees and subcommittees. The meeting finalized the election campaign schedule starting from January 22.

According to a press release from Jamaat’s central publicity department, the decisions and new appointments were part of preparations for the upcoming national polls.

BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman has called for policy-driven politics instead of mutual mudslinging among political parties. Speaking at a meeting with the newly elected executive committee of the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) at his Gulshan office on Wednesday, he emphasized constructive debate on development policies and solutions as the path forward for the country.

Rahman presented BNP’s vision for building a modern Bangladesh, highlighting plans to make Dhaka a livable city by addressing traffic congestion and urban challenges with input from local and foreign experts. He mentioned initiatives such as family and agriculture cards, satellite cities connected to Dhaka by train, and restoring the Buriganga River. He also pledged improvements in agriculture, education, and health, and reaffirmed BNP’s commitment to food self-sufficiency and a humane state.

He further stated that under a BNP government, the media would enjoy full freedom and journalists’ safety would be ensured. Rahman praised DRU’s neutrality and consistent elections, and accepted an invitation to attend its upcoming family gathering on January 30.

Police in Indian-administered Kashmir have begun distributing a four-page form titled “profiling of mosques,” requesting extensive details about mosques and their staff. The form seeks information on sect affiliation, funding sources, land ownership, and personal data such as mobile numbers, bank accounts, and relatives abroad. Similar forms have been sent to religious schools, prompting fears among residents that the exercise represents increased surveillance and state control over Muslim institutions.

The Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema, Kashmir’s largest Islamic religious body, condemned the move as an intrusion into sacred spaces and a violation of religious freedom. Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and the National Conference party also criticized the profiling as discriminatory and fear-inducing. Police actions come amid heightened central control following the 2019 revocation of Article 370, which stripped the region of its autonomy. The BJP defended the initiative, citing the need for transparency and security, arguing that mosques had previously been used for political mobilization.

Analysts and local clerics warned that the profiling could erode trust and deepen community tensions, with some fearing further restrictions on religious practices in the region.