U.S. President Donald Trump has softened his tone toward China, stating that the United States “wants to help China, not harm it.” His remarks came days after threatening to impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese imports in response to Beijing’s new restrictions on rare mineral exports. The earlier threats and hints of canceling a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping triggered panic on Wall Street, causing a sharp market downturn. Trump’s conciliatory comments, shared on Truth Social, suggested an effort to ease tensions, though analysts believe the underlying issues between the two powers remain unresolved. Beijing criticized Washington’s trade policies, accusing the U.S. of double standards and unfair sanctions. Both sides continue to impose tariffs—30% by the U.S. and 10% by China—while the rare-earth mineral dispute remains a major point of contention.

The interim government of Bangladesh is redirecting its transport strategy from a road-dominated system to a rail-based multi-modal network to ease congestion and improve nationwide connectivity. Sheikh Moin Uddin, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser on Transport Affairs, announced that major highways like Dhaka–Chattogram and Dhaka–Cox’s Bazar have reached saturation, prompting a shift toward rail and waterways. Speaking at a meeting organized by Reporters for Rail and Road (RRR), he said the government aims to create seamless integration between trains, buses, and waterways at key district hubs. Despite current shortages of locomotives and coaches, targeted operations will begin soon, guided by a national master plan. The final plan is expected within six to eight months, encompassing short-, medium-, and long-term goals. The initiative seeks to decentralize traffic from Dhaka, enhance transport safety, and build a cost-effective, sustainable network across the country.

Pakistan closed all major border points with Afghanistan on Sunday following a night-long gunfight with Afghan forces, heightening tensions between the neighboring countries. Pakistani officials reported that Afghan forces opened fire late Saturday night, claiming it was retaliation for a recent Pakistani airstrike targeting Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) leaders in Kabul. Afghanistan stated that 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed, while 20 of its troops were reported killed or injured. Pakistan claimed over 200 Taliban fighters were killed in its counterattack. Both countries accused each other of destroying border posts, with videos released showing shelling at Afghan positions. Sporadic clashes continued in Kurram even after most fighting ceased. Kabul said it halted attacks following requests from Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid confirmed some fighting remains but emphasized no Afghan territory is under threat. The border closures add further strain to regional security and economic pressures in South Asia.

The Bangladeshi government has introduced a comprehensive cyber governance framework through three new ordinances in 2025—the Personal Data Protection Ordinance, National Data Management Ordinance, and Cybersecurity (Amendment) Ordinance. Foyez Ahmed Tayyab, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser overseeing the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, stated that these measures aim to enhance digital security, protect citizens’ personal information, and prevent cybercrime. The new framework ensures platform accountability, government supervision of data storage, and clear ownership rights, keeping citizens’ data under their control while restricting commercial exploitation. Tayyab emphasized that the laws are not only administrative but also technically and knowledge-based, building a modern cyber ecosystem in Bangladesh. The ordinances mark a significant step forward in national digital governance, aligning the country with global standards while addressing long-standing gaps in policy and practice. Journalists are encouraged to verify facts before reporting.

The International Crimes Tribunal in Bangladesh has jurisdiction to try 15 military officers against whom arrest warrants have been issued in three cases, including two enforced disappearance cases, Chief Prosecutor Advocate Tajul Islam said on Sunday. He emphasized that the law requires presenting arrested individuals in court within 24 hours, after which the court will decide on further proceedings. Arrest warrants have been communicated to all relevant departments, including the army, and the tribunal is the proper venue for trying military officers involved in disappearances and killings. On Saturday, Major General Md. Hakimuzzaman briefed that 15 officers listed in the tribunal’s charge sheet have been taken into custody. A total of 25 officers, including former and current personnel, were accused, with 15 ordered to report to army headquarters by October 9; all except Major General Kabir Ahmed complied.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has vowed that the country will take a firm stand on its defence and security after clashes along the Afghanistan border. He praised the Pakistan Army for successfully targeting terrorist hideouts near the border, honoring 23 soldiers who were martyred during the operation. Shahbaz emphasized that Pakistan has repeatedly informed Afghanistan about terrorist groups “Fitna al-Khawariz” and “Fitna al-Hindustan,” which reportedly receive support from some Afghan territories. He urged the Afghan Taliban government to prevent its soil from being used against Pakistan. The Pakistan Army confirmed that unprovoked attacks occurred on October 11 and 12, and in retaliation, over 200 terrorists were eliminated, while 23 soldiers were killed and 29 injured. The army reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the nation and continuing defensive measures along the border.

Chittagong Port’s New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT), Laldiar Char, and Dhaka’s Pangaon terminal are set to be handed over to foreign operators by December, according to Mohammad Yusuf, Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Shipping. The move aims to enhance port capacity, improve efficiency, and attract foreign investment. Yusuf noted that while strategic and geographical concerns exist, similar operations have succeeded in ports across India, Sri Lanka, and other countries. The decision comes despite some opposition from local business communities. Yusuf emphasized that foreign operators will help streamline operations, reduce delays, and lower damages caused by congestion. Experts also highlighted the potential for the country’s shipbuilding industry to expand, leveraging global trade opportunities, and transforming it into a billion-dollar sector, supported by efficient delivery systems and tailored banking solutions.

Following the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, Turkey’s Ministry of Defense has stated that the Turkish Armed Forces are ready to participate in peacekeeping operations in Gaza if required. The ministry highlighted the TAF’s extensive experience in international missions, emphasizing fairness, professionalism, and trust earned in previous operations. Ministry spokesperson Zeki AkTürk praised the ceasefire as an opportunity to end two years of devastating conflict and urged rapid delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Turkey also reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable peace and facilitating a “two-state solution.” On Syria, Ankara described recent elections as a positive step for unity and stability but criticized the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) for violating agreements with the government. Turkey stressed close monitoring of ongoing talks and reiterated support for a “one state, one army” principle in Syria.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said Tehran has no confidence that Israel will honor the terms of the newly agreed Gaza ceasefire. Speaking a day after the truce began, he accused Israel of a history of deception and ceasefire violations, referencing past incidents in Lebanon. Araghchi reiterated Iran’s support for any initiative aimed at stopping the violence, ensuring humanitarian aid, releasing Palestinian prisoners, and protecting Palestinian rights. The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated that Tehran backs all efforts to end what it described as a genocidal war. Araghchi also disclosed that Russia conveyed a message from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, assuring that Israel has no intention of starting a new war with Iran. The message followed a recent 12-day conflict between the two nations triggered by Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear and military sites.

During the live broadcast of prosecution arguments in the crimes against humanity case against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and another accused, the Facebook page of Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal Chief Prosecutor’s Office came under a cyberattack. Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam revealed the incident during a press briefing on Sunday, October 12, stating that the attackers temporarily disabled the page but it was later restored. Tajul alleged that the perpetrators and their allies aimed to prevent the world from seeing the transparency and strength of the evidence presented in court. Emphasizing the government’s resolve, Tajul said no criminal will escape justice and no attempt to shield offenders will succeed in Bangladesh. He added that the prosecution’s efforts are not driven by revenge but by a commitment to justice and fairness.

Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus departed for Rome today, Sunday, October 12, to attend the flagship event of the World Food Forum. The Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight carrying Professor Yunus and his delegation left Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:30 a.m. During the forum, he is scheduled to deliver a keynote speech as an invited guest at the main session. He will also hold meetings with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and leaders of various international organizations to discuss pressing global issues such as food security, poverty alleviation, and sustainable development. Organized by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Food Forum serves as a platform for policymakers, researchers, and entrepreneurs worldwide to exchange ideas on the future of global food systems. This visit highlights Bangladesh’s proactive diplomatic engagement on the international stage.

Intense fighting erupted along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border after Taliban fighters in southern Afghanistan attacked several Pakistani military posts, claiming to have captured two of them. Pakistani security forces reported clashes at at least five border points and responded with heavy artillery, tanks, and light weapons. The fighting follows Taliban accusations that Pakistan carried out airstrikes in Kabul and Paktika province, which Islamabad has neither confirmed nor denied. Afghan officials said the Taliban engaged in retaliatory attacks against Pakistani forces. Clashes were reported from Kunar, Nangarhar, Paktika, Khost, and Helmand provinces. Pakistani forces also shot down three Afghan drones suspected of carrying explosives. No casualties have been reported yet. Tensions between the two countries remain high, with Pakistan accusing Afghanistan of sheltering the Pakistan-based militant group Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

World leaders are set to meet on Monday (October 13) in Egypt’s resort city of Sharm el-Sheikh for a landmark peace summit aimed at ending the two-year Gaza conflict and restoring stability in the Middle East. The conference, co-chaired by U.S. President Donald Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, will host leaders from over 20 nations, including the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, and French President Emmanuel Macron. The summit seeks to consolidate efforts for a permanent ceasefire, regional peace, and a new era of cooperation. While Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas representatives are yet to confirm attendance, the meeting comes amid a fragile ceasefire that has prompted displaced Gazans to return home after massive destruction. The initiative follows Trump’s recent 20-point peace plan unveiled in Washington.

BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has pledged six major commitments for women and girls, promising to make the state a true partner in fulfilling their dreams if given the chance to govern. In a message marking International Day of the Girl Child, he vowed to introduce “Family Cards” under women’s names to ensure direct financial aid, expand SME loans and training for female entrepreneurs, and strengthen girls’ access to academic and technical education. He also emphasized greater participation of women in policymaking, safeguarding their dignity and independence, and prioritizing women’s welfare in health, employment, and rural development. Rahman recalled the legacy of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia in empowering women through education, employment, and governance, noting that true national progress requires the empowerment of every girl to dream, learn, and lead with freedom and safety.

In a move highlighting political pragmatism over principle, India’s Hindu nationalist government has faced severe criticism after Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit to New Delhi. Once condemning the Taliban for its brutal record on women’s rights, India now appears to have softened its stance to counter Pakistan’s influence in the region. The controversy erupted when female journalists were denied entry to a press conference hosted by the Afghan Embassy, despite following dress codes. India’s Foreign Ministry quickly distanced itself, claiming no involvement in the event’s organization. Opposition leaders, including Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of hypocrisy and failing to defend women’s dignity in a democratic country. The incident comes amid Taliban-imposed restrictions on Afghan women’s education and employment, deepening outrage over India’s silence. Analysts view this episode as a troubling reflection of India’s shifting foreign policy priorities.