US President Donald Trump said Washington has not shared its plans on the Iran issue with Gulf allies. Speaking to Fox News on Saturday, he stated that the United States cannot disclose its strategy. Trump added that Iran is in communication with the US, and the outcome of those talks remains uncertain. His remarks were later posted on the social media platform X, where he revealed that Washington is sending a “massive naval fleet” toward the region. According to Trump, this deployment is larger than the force sent before a previous US military operation in Venezuela, during which President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were detained. Trump acknowledged that discussions with Tehran are ongoing but said it is unclear what results they will yield. He recalled that during earlier talks, Iran’s nuclear program had to be halted by the US, but that effort was unsuccessful, prompting alternative measures.

As the national election approaches, candidates in Bagerhat’s four parliamentary constituencies are intensifying their campaigns. A total of 21 candidates from various parties are contesting, with the main competition expected between the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami. However, BNP nominees are facing internal challenges due to rebel candidates in every seat, while Jamaat appears relatively more stable. Among the independents, former MP M.A.H. Selim is contesting in three constituencies. Voters across Bagerhat have voiced concerns about persistent local issues such as agricultural losses from salinity, poor healthcare, inadequate infrastructure, and gender inequality. Many residents expressed frustration that elected representatives often disappear after elections, emphasizing the need for consistent engagement and credible leadership. Candidates from both major parties have pledged development, employment, and governance reforms. With 1.36 million registered voters and 547 polling centers, the election in Bagerhat is shaping up as a test of trust and accountability rather than promises alone. The outcome may hinge on which candidates voters perceive as most reliable and responsive to local needs.

Advocate Saifur Rahman, the Jamaat-e-Islami candidate for Chattogram-1 (Mirsharai) in the 13th national election, said the party would ensure justice and equal rights for every citizen if it forms the government. He made the remarks on Saturday while campaigning across several unions and key areas of Mirsharai, pledging to build a fair and ideal society based on justice and integrity. Rahman emphasized that Jamaat seeks to serve rather than rule the people, promising to perform duties with sincerity and honesty if given the opportunity. He stated that the party’s goal is not power but public welfare, guided by accountability before God. He urged voters to support the “Dhalapalla” symbol in the upcoming February 12 election, vowing to create a society free from terrorism, drugs, and extortion. Several local leaders, including NCP leader Ashraf, former UP chairman Mejbah Uddin, and representatives from Jamaat and its affiliated organizations, were present during the campaign event.

The interim government led by Dr. Muhammad Yunus is nearing the end of its tenure, set to hand over power to the newly elected administration following the 13th parliamentary election. Over its one and a half years in office, the government faced persistent friction with the bureaucracy, marked by non-cooperation, factional conflicts, and administrative standoffs. Several incidents, including the besieging of advisers by officials and the paralysis of the Secretariat, underscored the depth of the crisis. Interviews with advisers, current and former secretaries, and public administration experts revealed conflicting accounts of responsibility. Experts blamed the bureaucracy’s entrenched ambitions and the government’s submissive stance, while some advisers cited political parties’ lack of cooperation. Retired officials argued that the Yunus administration’s decision to retain officials from the previous Awami League government undermined reform efforts and led to administrative stagnation. Others described the bureaucracy as resistant to accountability measures, including asset disclosures and reform proposals. As the interim government prepares to depart, analysts suggest its inability to assert control over the bureaucracy has eroded public trust and limited its capacity to deliver expected governance reforms.

In Jhenaidah-4 constituency, known as a BNP stronghold, election fever is rising ahead of the upcoming parliamentary polls. Rashed Khan, who recently joined the BNP from Gana Odhikar Parishad, secured the party nomination and is campaigning intensively across Kaliganj. Meanwhile, long-time BNP leader Saiful Islam Firoz, denied the nomination, is contesting as an independent candidate after being expelled from the party. Alongside them, Jamaat-e-Islami’s candidate Maulana Abu Talib is also actively campaigning, presenting his political stance to voters. Initially, Rashed’s nomination sparked discontent among local BNP activists who felt loyal grassroots leaders were overlooked. However, many have since aligned with him following party directives. Rashed is focusing his campaign on issues such as extortion, drugs, transportation, waterlogging, education, and healthcare. Firoz, popular for his grassroots involvement, continues his campaign with a section of local supporters despite expulsion. Political observers note that the Rashed-Firoz rivalry has intensified the contest, potentially benefiting Jamaat’s candidate Abu Talib, who believes growing voter support could lead him to victory. The final outcome will be decided in the election scheduled for the 12th, with all three candidates expressing strong confidence in their prospects.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has expressed serious concern over India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games following Bangladesh’s decision to withdraw from the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. According to a report by The Guardian, the IOC views the growing political tension between India and Bangladesh over cricket as a potential threat to the Olympic movement’s principle of political neutrality. The controversy began after Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman was allegedly unfairly excluded from the IPL, prompting the Bangladesh Cricket Board to request venue changes for its World Cup matches, which the ICC rejected. The ICC’s decision and its perceived alignment with Indian interests have drawn scrutiny, especially given the close ties between ICC leadership and Indian cricket authorities. The IOC, which maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward political interference in sports, has reportedly warned that continued boycotts or political disputes could jeopardize India’s Olympic hosting ambitions. India’s confirmed hosting of the 2030 Commonwealth Games contrasts with the uncertainty surrounding its 2036 Olympic bid, where Qatar remains a strong competitor. The IOC has also reminded India that visible efforts to improve relations with Bangladesh and Pakistan will be essential to sustain its Olympic aspirations.

Venezuela has announced a general amnesty for all political prisoners detained since 1999 and decided to close a notorious detention center, sparking hope that the country’s long era of state repression may be ending. The move came less than a month after President Nicolás Maduro was ousted in a U.S.-led operation on January 3. Former vice president Delcy Rodríguez initiated several measures aimed at restoring the rule of law, seen as reflecting Washington’s longstanding demands. Families gathered outside the Rodeo-1 prison near Caracas celebrated the announcement with chants of freedom. Opposition figures and citizens described the moment as the beginning of a new chapter for Venezuela. Former lawmaker Delsa Solórzano reappeared publicly after 17 months in hiding, saying the nation could feel the change. However, student leader Miguelángel Suárez and opposition leader María Corina Machado criticized Rodríguez for the slow pace of prisoner releases and questioned the government’s sincerity. Analysts noted that U.S. pressure has made political repression increasingly costly for the authorities. While many Venezuelans expressed relief, some remained cautious, recalling the fear and trauma of the past 25 years under Maduro’s rule. Observers warned that it may be too early to call this a full political transformation.

Tensions between the United States and Iran have reached a new peak, with Iranian authorities confirming preparations for thousands of graves near Tehran. According to the semi-official Mehr News Agency, the graves are being dug at Behesht-e Zahra, the capital’s largest cemetery, as a precautionary measure in anticipation of a potential military conflict. Iranian officials described the move as part of readiness efforts should U.S. attacks result in casualties. U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of possible military action against Iran if it fails to halt its nuclear program and continues suppressing anti-government protests. A U.S. strike group led by the USS Abraham Lincoln is reportedly moving toward Iranian waters. Trump stated that while the United States does not seek war, it will act if compelled by circumstances. Iran maintains that its nuclear program is entirely peaceful and civilian in nature, while keeping the door open for fair and balanced dialogue. The country has also added around one thousand new tactical drones to its forces, and reports of mysterious explosions in Tehran have heightened public anxiety. Analysts warn that the mutual threats and military buildup could destabilize the Middle East further.

Bangladesh’s Ninth Pay Commission has recommended increasing government employees’ salaries by 100 to 150 percent, roughly two to two-and-a-half times the current levels. The proposal, submitted on January 21 to the chief adviser, suggests raising the minimum basic salary from Tk 8,250 to Tk 20,000 and the maximum from Tk 78,000 to Tk 160,000. Implementing the plan would require an additional Tk 106,000 crore in government spending. In comparison, India, Pakistan, and Nepal have recently proposed or implemented salary increases ranging from 10 to 35 percent. Economists and analysts have questioned the timing and feasibility of the recommendation, citing Bangladesh’s sluggish economy, revenue shortfalls, and rising government borrowing. The interim government’s economic and energy advisers have stated that the proposal will not be implemented under their administration, leaving the decision to the next elected government. Critics, including former officials, warned that the recommendation could create fiscal pressure and political complications for the incoming administration. Experts further cautioned that implementing such a large pay hike could force cuts in the annual development program, affecting key sectors like education, health, and infrastructure.

Campaigning for the 13th National Parliamentary Election has gained momentum across the Laksam-Manoharganj area of Comilla-9 constituency. As the election draws nearer, discussions and speculation about potential candidates have increased, creating a festive atmosphere. The contest is expected to be three-way, with candidates from BNP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Islamic Front, and Islami Andolan (Charmonai Pir) actively engaging with voters. Independent candidate Samira Azim Dola has withdrawn from the race, extending her support to the BNP candidate. BNP’s sole candidate Abul Kalam expressed optimism about his victory, while Jamaat’s candidate Dr. Syed A.K.M. Sarwar Uddin Siddiqui said he is fully prepared and believes the people of Laksam-Manoharganj want change. Islamic Front’s Alhaj Mir Abu Bakar and Islami Andolan’s Alhaj Selim Mahmud also continue their campaigns, each hopeful of voter support. A recent rally at Laksam Stadium featured Jamaat Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman as chief guest. Local BNP leaders claim the constituency is a BNP stronghold, suggesting their candidate has a strong chance of winning.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman addressed several election rallies in Comilla, Daudkandi, and Dhaka on Saturday, calling for an end to corruption, fascism, and dominance-based politics. Speaking as chief guest at the 11-party alliance’s gatherings, he said the people of Bangladesh desire change and that transformation will begin on the 13th. He emphasized building a youthful and humane Bangladesh, free from division and injustice, and said the alliance aims to govern based on the aspirations of 180 million citizens. Rahman pledged that if his party comes to power, it will form a unity government ensuring justice, eradicating corruption, and implementing July reform proposals. He also promised to improve education, health, and civic services, including transforming Keraniganj into a model township. Other alliance leaders, including Nahid Islam of NCP and Maulana Mamunul Haque of Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis, echoed calls for national unity and resistance to foreign interference in elections. The rallies drew large crowds, with Rahman urging voters to support the 11-party alliance in the upcoming polls to strengthen sovereignty and establish accountable governance.

BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman said that after toppling autocracy through movement, it is now time to rebuild the country collectively. He made the remarks on Saturday afternoon at an election rally in Sirajganj’s BSCIC Industrial Park, marking the final day of his northern region tour. Rahman called on supporters to stand by farmers and remain alert against any attempts to deprive citizens of their voting rights. He introduced party candidates from Sirajganj and Pabna and urged voters to support them. Rahman emphasized BNP’s experience in state governance and pledged to establish new industrial parks, revive the handloom industry, and create vocational institutes to address unemployment. He also promised family and agriculture cards to assist women and farmers if the party wins. Earlier in Bogura, he met local leaders and described the district as a BNP stronghold. At a later rally in Tangail, Rahman alleged that some groups were conspiring to obstruct the election by misleading voters. He outlined plans for regional development, including a barrage on the Jamuna River, new factories, and pineapple processing plants.

Educational institutions across Bangladesh have begun announcing extended holidays as the national election approaches. In Keraniganj, the Girls’ School and College declared holidays until February 15 after Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) established a camp on its premises to maintain law and order during the election period. Similar closures have been reported in other schools in and around Dhaka. Parents confirmed that students were informed of the extended break due to the BGB deployment. According to BGB’s Dhaka Sector Commander Colonel S.M. Abul Ehsan, more than 37,000 BGB members will be deployed nationwide to ensure security during the upcoming parliamentary election. The government has also announced general holidays on February 11 and 12 for the election, with additional days off linked to religious observances and weekends, creating extended breaks for both students and government employees. The overlapping of election-related and religious holidays has resulted in unusually long school closures across the country, affecting academic schedules and daily routines in many institutions.

Severe disruption has hit public services in the 3 No. Angarpara Union Parishad of Khansama upazila, Dinajpur, after its chairman went into hiding and the panel chairman was jailed. For nearly three weeks, administrative operations have been paralyzed, leaving residents unable to obtain birth registrations, certificates, inheritance documents, social safety allowances, and land-related services. Local sources said elected chairman Mostafa Ahmed Shah, a former acting president of the upazila Awami League, went into hiding after being accused in an arson case filed by a local Jubo Dal leader following the fall of the Awami League government in July. Allegations suggest he is attempting to manage office affairs remotely through seals and signatures. The situation worsened when the panel chairman was recently arrested in an unidentified case, leaving the council without leadership. Union officials said documents cannot be issued without the chairman’s signature, forcing citizens to wait days. The Upazila Nirbahi Officer stated that uninterrupted public service is essential and that directives have been issued to ensure timely service delivery under administrative monitoring.

At least 37 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes across several areas of the Gaza Strip within the past 24 hours, despite a ceasefire being in effect. Anadolu Agency reported on Saturday that the dead included women, children, and seven members of a single family. Gaza’s Civil Defense said the attacks began early Saturday, killing at least 32 people and injuring many others. Medical sources confirmed that five people, including three children and two women, were killed when an apartment building was hit in Gaza City’s Rimal area. In Khan Younis, seven members of one family died when a tent sheltering displaced people was struck. Witnesses also reported injuries from a strike on a residential building in Gaza City’s Al-Tuffah area. Additional airstrikes were carried out in Al-Jalla Street and the Bureij refugee camp, though casualties there were not immediately known. According to Anadolu’s correspondent, Israeli forces had issued evacuation warnings before striking an administrative building at the Gaith camp near Al-Ribat College in Khan Younis, which housed hundreds of displaced people.