The Trump administration is reportedly preparing to detain around 80,000 undocumented migrants in large warehouse facilities across the United States, according to a draft plan obtained by The Washington Post. The initiative, led by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), includes the establishment of at least 22 detention warehouses nationwide, marking one of the largest expansions of migrant detention infrastructure in U.S. history.

The plan outlines the conversion of industrial warehouses in key states such as Texas, Virginia, Louisiana, Arizona, Georgia, and Missouri into holding centers. Seven major facilities would each accommodate between 5,000 and 10,000 detainees, while 15 smaller centers would hold 500 to 1,500 people each. The move follows a record-high detention rate, with more than 70,000 migrants currently in custody.

Critics have raised concerns over human rights and logistical feasibility, while supporters argue it strengthens border enforcement. The proposal signals a continuation of President Trump’s hardline immigration stance during his second term, with further deportation operations expected in the coming months.

Bangladesh’s interim government has described the anticipated return of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman as a potential turning point in the country’s political landscape. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam told reporters on Thursday that Rahman’s arrival would help fill an existing political vacuum and contribute positively to the national atmosphere. He made the remarks while exchanging Christmas greetings with the Christian community at Tejgaon’s Holy Rosary Church in Dhaka.

Alam emphasized that Bangladesh is currently in a phase of democratic transition, with a major election approaching. He noted that Rahman, as the leader of one of the country’s largest political parties, could play a crucial role in shaping the next phase of political dialogue. The statement has drawn attention from political observers, who see Rahman’s return as a test of both the interim administration’s inclusivity and the opposition’s readiness for electoral engagement.

Analysts suggest that Rahman’s re-entry could influence voter sentiment and party mobilization, though challenges remain regarding legal and political reconciliation before the polls.

The Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE) of Bangladesh has issued a strict warning to all teachers, students, and staff under its jurisdiction regarding the use of Facebook and other social media platforms. In an urgent circular dated December 24, the Ministry of Education emphasized that any violation of existing social media policies or the newly enacted Cyber Security Ordinance 2025 will be treated as a serious offense.

According to officials, the directive aims to maintain discipline in digital spaces and safeguard national security. The notice referenced the 2019 revised guidelines for social media use in government institutions and reiterated the government’s ‘zero tolerance’ stance toward cybercrime. It explicitly prohibits provocative posts, rumor-spreading, or any activity that could harm institutional reputation.

Heads of educational institutions have been tasked with ensuring compliance, while authorities confirmed that teachers’ and students’ online activities will be regularly monitored. Violators may face departmental and legal action, with no leniency in the enforcement of the Cyber Security Ordinance 2025.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has sharply criticized India’s opposition parties, accusing them of practicing selective outrage and appeasement politics. Speaking at a public event, Adityanath alleged that opposition leaders protest Israeli actions in Gaza but remain silent when minorities, particularly Hindus or Dalits, face violence in neighboring countries such as Bangladesh or Pakistan. He urged opposition leaders to introduce a condemnation motion in the state assembly regarding a recent killing of a Dalit youth in Bangladesh.

Adityanath further accused opposition parties of supporting illegal immigration, claiming they defend Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingya refugees for electoral gains. He alleged that some have even helped illegal migrants obtain voter identification cards. His remarks, reported by NDTV, come amid heightened political rhetoric over religious and regional issues in India.

The comments are expected to intensify political polarization ahead of upcoming elections, as opposition parties may respond to the accusations while maintaining focus on domestic governance and communal harmony.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has clarified that its acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, selected December 25 for his return to Bangladesh to minimize public inconvenience and prioritize citizens’ welfare. BNP Media Cell convener and reception committee member Professor Mowdud Hossain Alamgir Pavel stated at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport that the date was chosen because it coincides with a public holiday and an extended weekend, reducing traffic congestion and disruption to daily life.

Pavel explained that most educational institutions have completed exams by this time of year, and many people are on vacation, making it easier to manage large gatherings. To ensure smooth movement, BNP volunteers set up help desks at Mahakhali, Abdullahpur, and near the airport to assist travelers and ambulances. He emphasized that Rahman wanted a peaceful, citizen-friendly event that would not disturb normal life.

Tarique Rahman, who had been living in London since 2008 following his release on bail, is returning after the High Court annulled his previous convictions in 2024, clearing legal barriers to his homecoming.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman expressed gratitude to the people of Bangladesh after returning to Dhaka on Thursday. His flight landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:40 a.m., accompanied by his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman, daughter Barrister Zaima Rahman, and their pet cat. Supporters lined the streets to welcome him as his motorcade made its way slowly toward a reception venue in Bashundhara.

Following the reception, Tarique Rahman was scheduled to visit his mother, BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, who is receiving treatment at Evercare Hospital in the capital. Security was tightened around the hospital area, with Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) personnel deployed to maintain order. Party activists who had gathered near the hospital were asked to clear the area for safety reasons. Rahman’s return marks a significant moment for the BNP leadership amid ongoing political developments and public anticipation over his next steps.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman expressed gratitude to Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus upon arriving at Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Thursday. Rahman, who returned with his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman, spoke to Dr. Yunus over the phone, inquiring about his health and thanking him for the government’s security measures.

A video posted on Rahman’s verified Facebook page showed him acknowledging the arrangements made for his safety and comfort, stating that he and his family were thankful for the support extended by the interim government. His remarks come amid heightened political attention surrounding his return to Bangladesh after a long absence.

The exchange between Rahman and Yunus is being viewed as a gesture of goodwill between the BNP leadership and the interim administration. Political observers suggest the communication may signal a cautious attempt to maintain stability and cooperation during the transitional period.

Security measures have been significantly increased around Dhaka’s Evercare Hospital ahead of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman’s visit to see his mother, party chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) personnel have been deployed in the surrounding area, and BNP activists who had gathered near the hospital were dispersed by law enforcement to ensure public order and safety.

Rahman returned to Bangladesh earlier on Thursday after 17 years in self-exile, arriving at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight. His return marks a major political moment for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which has been largely led from abroad in recent years. Party supporters had gathered in large numbers to welcome him, waving national flags and chanting slogans.

Authorities have maintained a heightened state of alert around the hospital and key city points, citing crowd control and security concerns. Political analysts suggest Rahman’s return could reshape BNP’s internal dynamics and influence the country’s political landscape ahead of future elections.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman received a grand public reception in Dhaka’s 300 Feet area on Thursday as thousands of party leaders and supporters gathered to greet him. His motorcade advanced slowly through dense crowds waving national flags, marking his long-awaited return to the country. Security forces, including the army, Border Guard Bangladesh, police, RAB, and the Special Security Force, maintained tight protection along the route.

Rahman waved to supporters from his vehicle, acknowledging their greetings amid an atmosphere of celebration. The event drew large numbers of BNP activists from across the capital, reflecting renewed enthusiasm within the party’s ranks. Officials reported that the area took on a festive mood, with banners, chants, and national colors dominating the scene.

The return of Tarique Rahman, a key opposition figure, is expected to influence Bangladesh’s political landscape ahead of future elections. Analysts suggest his reappearance could energize BNP’s organizational activities and reshape opposition strategies in the coming months.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman spoke by phone with Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus shortly after arriving at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on Thursday. The conversation took place soon after his arrival, marking his first direct contact with the interim government leadership since returning to the country.

Rahman, accompanied by his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman, was greeted by senior BNP leaders including Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Standing Committee members Mirza Abbas, Goyeshwar Chandra Roy, and others. Before boarding his vehicle, Rahman symbolically removed his shoes, touched the ground, and took a handful of soil, a gesture interpreted by supporters as an emotional reconnection with his homeland.

The return of Rahman and his immediate communication with Dr. Yunus are seen as politically significant amid Bangladesh’s evolving transitional governance. Analysts suggest the interaction could signal BNP’s readiness to engage with the caretaker administration on upcoming political processes.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s Amir, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, publicly welcomed BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman and his family upon their return to Bangladesh after 17 years abroad. The message, posted on Dr. Rahman’s verified Facebook page on Thursday, simply read, “Mr. Tarique Rahman, welcome home with your family.” Tarique Rahman landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka at 11:40 a.m. under tight security and later proceeded toward his residence in the 300 Feet area.

Thousands of BNP supporters and activists gathered at the airport and along the route, waving flags and banners to greet their leader. The return marks the end of Tarique Rahman’s long exile following his conviction in several corruption cases and political turmoil in the mid-2000s. Political analysts note that Jamaat’s public gesture could signal renewed alignment or cooperation between the two opposition parties.

Observers say Tarique Rahman’s return may reshape Bangladesh’s opposition landscape ahead of future elections, though legal and political challenges remain significant.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has offered to hold talks with the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in an effort to ease the country’s ongoing political tensions. Chairing a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad, Sharif said the government is ready for dialogue if PTI shows sincerity, emphasizing that discussions should focus on legitimate national issues and political harmony is vital for Pakistan’s progress.

The proposal follows a statement from a PTI faction, Tehreek Tahafuz Aain-e-Pakistan (TTAP), which said the ‘door to dialogue remains open.’ However, no concrete steps have been taken by either side to initiate formal talks. The situation remains uncertain as PTI founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan continues to serve a 17-year prison sentence in the Toshakhana-2 corruption case alongside his wife, Bushra Bibi. Multiple other cases, including attempted murder and forgery, are also pending against him.

Observers note that the government’s ban on visits to Khan until February 8 has deepened mistrust, while his party and family express concern over restricted access. Political analysts warn that without confidence-building measures, dialogue efforts may falter ahead of the next hearing on January 27.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi approaches the midpoint of his third term in 2026, discussions are intensifying over who might lead India after him. Modi, who has held power since 2014, remains highly popular with a 71% approval rating according to Morning Consult. Yet, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) faces declining parliamentary dominance and growing opposition, raising questions about succession and continuity.

Analysts suggest potential successors could emerge from within the BJP, such as Home Minister Amit Shah or Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Alternatively, regional allies like Andhra Pradesh’s N. Chandrababu Naidu or his son Nara Lokesh could gain prominence, especially amid large-scale investment projects. The opposition Congress Party, led by Rahul Gandhi or his sister Priyanka Gandhi, also remains a possible challenger.

Experts warn that any post-Modi leader may struggle to match his popularity or political control. A less popular administration could resort to populist spending to maintain support, potentially straining fiscal stability and increasing corruption risks in India’s governance landscape.

Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, declared that any attempt to undermine national unity, security, or stability will not be tolerated. Speaking at the 273rd Corps Commanders Conference in Rawalpindi, he emphasized the armed forces’ determination to counter terrorism and reject links between militancy, crime, and political interests, according to an Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) statement.

Munir commended the military’s professionalism and sacrifices in recent intelligence-based counterterrorism operations across the country. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination and reiterated Islamabad’s principled stance on the Palestinian issue, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and unhindered humanitarian access.

The conference underscored the army’s commitment to national stability amid ongoing regional tensions. Analysts view Munir’s remarks as a signal of the military’s intent to maintain internal cohesion and assert its role in Pakistan’s evolving security and political landscape.

Heavy traffic congestion paralyzed Chittagong Road from Wednesday night as BNP’s acting chairman Tareque Rahman returned to Bangladesh for a three-day visit. The gridlock intensified Thursday morning, with vehicles remaining stationary for over ninety minutes. Commuters leaving Dhaka for other districts faced major delays, particularly between Signboard and Kanchpur, though inbound traffic toward Dhaka remained normal.

Transport staff and local witnesses reported intermittent relief in traffic flow overnight but said conditions worsened again in the morning. The congestion coincided with the start of a national holiday period, amplifying the number of outbound travelers. Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on traffic management measures.

The situation underscores Dhaka’s chronic traffic challenges, especially during political or holiday events. Officials may deploy additional traffic police and coordinate with highway authorities to ease movement ahead of the weekend rush.