BNP leader Barkatullah Bulu has warned that if religious fundamentalists come to power in Bangladesh, the country could descend into a state similar to Afghanistan or Syria, leaving its future deeply uncertain.

Speaking at an event in Begumganj Upazila and Chaumuhani Municipality, where financial aid and food were distributed to 26 Durga Puja pavilions, Bulu urged citizens to safeguard the spirit of secularism and honor the sacrifices of freedom fighters.

“The upcoming national election is a crucial moment,” he said. “To protect our future and build a non-communal Bangladesh, people must cast their votes wisely.”

Jamaat-e-Islami chief Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has extended greetings to the Hindu community on the occasion of Durga Puja and called on authorities to ensure adequate security. He highlighted Bangladesh’s reputation as a global model for communal harmony, recalling international recognition, including praise from the Australian High Commissioner. “Durga Puja should further strengthen our bonds of tolerance and harmony,” he said, wishing peace and prosperity for all communities.

Amid escalating global tensions, Iran has unveiled plans for a new nuclear power plant in Hormozgan province. The “Iran Hormoz” facility, with a projected capacity of 5,000 megawatts, will soon enter its design and equipment phase, according to Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization. Officials say the project is a significant step toward fulfilling strategic objectives outlined in Iran’s nuclear industry roadmap, reinforcing the country’s long-term energy and technological ambitions.

U.S. President Donald Trump met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the White House to discuss four key issues: the Gaza conflict, the Ukraine war, Syria, and F-35 fighter jet sales. Trump indicated a potential “big announcement” on Syria and hinted at lifting sanctions on Turkey if it stops buying Russian oil. Both leaders agreed on supporting the Syrian central government, reflecting improved relations compared to past tensions. The talks also focused on hostages and bilateral defense cooperation.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan stated that the Israel-Palestine conflict is resolvable through dialogue if there is genuine political will. Speaking at the UN General Assembly, he expressed hope for the near-term implementation of a two-state solution. He emphasized that a sustainable Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, coupled with reconstruction in Gaza, is essential for lasting peace. Arab and Muslim nations have consistently highlighted the risks of West Bank occupation, and constructive negotiations remain key to regional stability.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flew an unusual route to New York for the UN General Assembly, bypassing common European airways. His official plane, Wings of Zion, traveled over the Mediterranean, Greece, and Italy, entering the Atlantic via Gibraltar, adding nearly 600 km to the journey. Analysts say this detour helps him avoid the ICC arrest warrant issued last year for alleged war crimes in Gaza. France permitted his airspace use, but Netanyahu opted for a different path. He will address the UN and meet U.S. President Trump next week.

Syria recently announced the dismantling of a cell linked to Lebanon’s Iran-backed Hezbollah, seizing rockets, missiles, and arresting five suspects. Hezbollah denied any presence in Syria, but analysts note Iran continues to use the group as part of its regional strategy. Recent Israeli strikes and internal pressures in Lebanon have weakened Hezbollah’s military capabilities, limiting its influence in Syria. While still part of Iran’s plans, the group struggles to project the same strength, signaling a new reality for regional dynamics.

The United States has announced a 100% tariff on all branded and patented pharmaceutical imports from October 1, 2025, unless companies establish production facilities in the country. President Trump stated this move aims to boost domestic manufacturing and reduce the budget deficit. India, whose pharmaceutical exports to the U.S. reached $8.7 billion in 2023–24, could face significant costs and negative impacts on its drug exports. Analysts warn the policy may severely strain India’s pharmaceutical industry.

BNP senior leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has strongly criticized the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) election process, calling it “neither fair nor legitimate.” He alleged widespread irregularities, including ballot papers being printed in Nilkhet, and accused the administration of ignoring complaints. Rizvi said the election was orchestrated to serve vested interests, warning that if such manipulation continues, the upcoming national polls will also be at risk. Selima Rahman added that although Sheikh Hasina was ousted, conspiracies are still ongoing.

Turkey and the United States signed a memorandum of understanding on September 25 to enhance cooperation in the nuclear fuel sector. The agreement, part of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s White House visit, aims to deepen the longstanding multifaceted relationship between the two nations. Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar emphasized that the strategic civilian nuclear cooperation will bring mutual benefits in the future. Top leaders from both countries attended the signing ceremony, highlighting the importance of this partnership.

U.S. President Donald Trump said he will not allow Israel to annex the occupied West Bank, stressing that such a move is unacceptable. Speaking ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s UN address, Trump noted that a deal on Gaza is “very close.” Global pressure is mounting on Israel to end the Gaza war and halt West Bank annexation, with the UK, Germany, and the UN warning of severe consequences. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas urged support for the French peace plan.

China has imposed sanctions on six American companies, accusing them of undermining its national security through military cooperation with Taiwan. Three firms—Sarinc Technologies, Aerocom, and Oceaneering International—were added to Beijing’s “unreliable entities list,” barring them from trade with China. Separately, Huntington Ingalls Industries, Planet Management Group, and Global Dimensions were placed on the export control list, preventing them from receiving dual-use goods. The move comes as U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping prepare for a high-level meeting.

National Citizens’ Party (NCP) South Region Coordinator Hasnat Abdullah responded to Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin’s statement on the Shapla symbol with a cryptic Facebook post, saying there was “no permission from above” and “no signal from the north.” The CEC earlier clarified that the Election Commission would not explain why parties were denied the Shapla symbol, stressing the decision was final and independent. He emphasized the EC works neutrally and not under external influence.

GOP leader Rashed Khan praised Dr. Muhammad Yunus for his rare simplicity, suggesting it could earn him a second Nobel Prize. He said Yunus openly shows affection for leaders he admires rather than hiding it, unlike others. Khan recalled how advisers sometimes remind Yunus to balance his affections, but Yunus responds with childlike sincerity. “His simplicity is unique in the world. If he wins another Nobel, it will be for this very quality,” Khan said.

BNP leader Rumeen Farhana has accused Jamaat-e-Islami of repeatedly making historic mistakes, recalling its participation alongside Sheikh Hasina in the controversial 1986 election that legitimized military dictatorship. She noted that until 1996, Jamaat also joined hands with Awami League in anti-BNP movements. Farhana further alleged that Jamaat activists, while banned from campuses, had successfully merged into Chhatra League to pursue politics, reaping benefits in Dhaka University and Jahangirnagar University student elections.