The United States is transferring a large number of its long-range JASSM-ER cruise missiles to the Middle East as a follow-up to its recent military operations against Iran. According to a source cited by NDTV, the missiles are being moved from reserves originally allocated to other regions, including the Pacific. Orders to withdraw the missiles, each valued at about 1.5 million dollars, were issued in late March. The weapons are being relocated to US Central Command bases and the Fairford base in the United Kingdom. After the redeployment, only about 425 of the pre-war stockpile of 2,300 JASSM-ER missiles will remain available for other regions, with around 75 rendered unusable due to damage or technical faults. The report adds that nearly two-thirds of the US missile reserves, including shorter-range JASSM models with a range of about 250 miles, have been committed to the Iran conflict. Since the joint US-Israel air campaign began on February 28, concerns have grown over missile defense and long-range weapon stockpiles. The source noted that over a thousand JASSM-ER missiles have already been used within four weeks of fighting, and 47 were deployed in an operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The pace of use suggests that replenishing the arsenal could take several years.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that one of its military helicopters accidentally dropped a bomb in an open area of northern Israel. The incident occurred at night, and no casualties or injuries were reported. Following the event, the army dispatched a bomb disposal team to the site, which safely neutralized the explosive device. According to the IDF, the incident resulted from an operational error. A formal investigation has been launched to determine how the mistake occurred and to prevent similar incidents in the future. The report did not specify the type of helicopter or the nature of the mission during which the error took place. The IDF’s statement emphasized that safety measures were promptly enacted after the bomb was dropped, ensuring that no damage or loss of life occurred in the affected area.

Ishaq bin Salim Al-Siyabi, former vice president of Oman’s Shura Council, has called for a ban on all US products, accusing the United States of betrayal. In a post on social media platform X, he alleged that the US had acted treacherously during discussions aimed at resolving disputes and achieving lasting peace for all parties. Al-Siyabi wrote that the United States was carrying out open, hateful, and unjust aggression against innocent people whose only crime was their desire for a dignified and peaceful life. He argued that there were now strong reasons to impose sanctions on all American goods. Oman previously served as a mediator between the United States and Iran during the 2015 nuclear deal negotiations and has since attempted mediation in other regional matters, though with limited success, according to the report.

U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed that a missing American military officer was successfully rescued after his fighter jet was shot down over Iranian airspace. In a statement, Trump said the U.S. military carried out one of the most daring search and rescue operations in American history to recover the officer, who is an arms specialist with the rank of colonel. He added that the rescued officer is now completely safe. According to the report, the officer went missing after an F-15E fighter jet was downed. The U.S. military quickly identified his location and launched a rescue mission. Although detailed information about the operation has not yet been released, it is being described as one of the most notable military rescue missions in recent times. Further details about the circumstances of the crash and the rescue operation remain undisclosed, and no additional official statements have been issued so far.

The government of Bangladesh has initiated steps to establish a new Export Processing Zone (EPZ) in Kasba upazila of Brahmanbaria. Preparations are underway following a letter dated March 29, signed by Tanvir Hossain, Executive Director (Investment Development) of the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA), confirming the plan. The letter stated that necessary measures will be taken in accordance with regulations to set up the EPZ. The initiative is part of the new government’s development agenda aimed at expanding industrial capacity. The proposed site in Tinlakhpir area of Binauti Union was recommended by Kabir Ahmed Bhuiyan, an executive member of the Brahmanbaria district BNP. The location lies beside the Cumilla–Sylhet highway and has close access to Akhaura land port and railway junction. The region benefits from nearby energy and transport infrastructure, including Ashuganj river port and power plant, and Titas gas field. Officials said the EPZ would create employment and transform the local economy. Local authorities view the project as a key step toward regional economic growth, with expectations of new investment and long-term energy security through nearby gas field development.

The postponed 13th parliamentary election for Sherpur-3 (Sreebardi-Jhenaigati) constituency is set for April 9, 2026, and candidates are in the final stretch of campaigning. BNP’s Mahmudul Haque Rubel, Jamaat-e-Islami’s Masudur Rahman Masud, and BSD (Marxist)’s Mohammad Mizanur Rahman are contesting. Candidates are holding rallies, small meetings, and door-to-door visits, promising local development and outlining their future plans. BNP’s Rubel, a three-time former MP, is leading a family-driven campaign to reclaim what was once a BNP stronghold, with his wife, daughter, and son engaging different voter groups. Jamaat’s Masud, a retired army officer and brother of late leader Nuruzzaman Badol, is leveraging his family’s legacy and organized party base. Voters report that the race is highly competitive, with both BNP and Jamaat maintaining strong support networks. The election was rescheduled after Jamaat’s previous nominee died in February. Observers note that the outcome could reshape local political dynamics in Sherpur’s Sreebardi and Jhenaigati upazilas.

In Mongla upazila of Bagerhat, the historic Mamar Ghat area is gradually disappearing into the Pashur River due to severe erosion. Large portions of the riverbank have already collapsed, submerging significant land areas. The situation has caused serious concern and hardship among local traders, workers of the Export Processing Zone (EPZ), and boatmen who rely on the river route for transport and trade. On-site observations revealed that a major section of the riverbank near Mamar Ghat has broken away, leaving several nearby shops at risk, with some already partially damaged. Although there are no residential houses along the bank, business owners fear losing this vital commercial hub. Delwar Hossain, president of the Mongla Port Engine Boatmen’s Association, said that the erosion is disrupting docking and cargo operations, reducing income for boat operators. Mongla Upazila Executive Officer and Port Municipality Administrator Sharmin Akter Sumi stated that the issue is being treated with urgency. Relevant departments have been informed, and immediate protective measures are being initiated to safeguard the town and its residents.

Sunamganj-1 Member of Parliament Kamruzzaman Kamrul said he aims to change the neglected haor region’s condition through development in education, health, and communication. Speaking at a meeting with local print and electronic media workers in Sunamganj city on Saturday night, he described the area as underdeveloped and said people elected him to bring change. He added that he had spoken to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, who he said is sincere about improving the lives of haor residents. Kamrul noted that waterlogging often destroys crops in the haor, causing suffering for farmers. He said he has been visiting the area frequently and trying to support farmers. Responding to criticism from some farmers, he said their expectations are high and that constructive criticism helps him stay on the right path. He emphasized that he prefers to remain close to ordinary people and will work to establish industries to create employment in the haor. The MP also expressed concern over the environmental degradation of Tanguar Haor and pledged to develop it in an eco-friendly manner with advice from local stakeholders.

Bangladesh has introduced a new schedule for government and private offices effective from Sunday, April 5, 2026, as part of efforts to save energy and electricity. According to a circular from the Ministry of Public Administration, offices will now operate from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, with Friday and Saturday designated as weekly holidays. Emergency services are exempt from this schedule, and the Supreme Court will issue separate guidance for court hours. All markets, office buildings, and commercial establishments, except essential services, must close by 6 p.m. The Bangladesh Bank announced that all scheduled banks will follow the revised hours until further notice. Banking transactions will be conducted from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., while office hours will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Branches located in port and customs areas will continue operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week, under existing directives. The government decided to shorten office hours by one hour in response to the global energy crisis triggered by the war situation in the Middle East. The decision was approved during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday night.

Pakistan has announced a one-month period of free travel on government-run public transport across the country, including the capital and the most populous province. The decision was made after widespread protests erupted following a sharp rise in fuel prices driven by the ongoing Iran-related war situation. The announcement came on Friday, shortly after the government raised petrol prices by 42.7 percent to 485 rupees per liter, triggering public anger and long queues at petrol stations. According to The Guardian, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif later partially reversed the decision the same night, reducing petrol prices to 378 rupees per liter by cutting fuel taxes. In a televised address, he said the new price would remain in effect for at least one month and pledged to continue efforts to stabilize daily life. However, diesel prices were not reduced and now stand at 520 rupees per liter, a 54.9 percent increase from previous levels. The temporary free transport measure aims to ease public hardship while the government works to manage the economic fallout from the fuel crisis.

On April 3, during the 35th day of the US-Israeli aggression, an American F-15 fighter jet was destroyed in Iran. The aircraft carried two pilots; the United States claimed to have rescued one but did not disclose any details. The other pilot remains missing, and US forces are reportedly searching for him. According to Tasnim News Agency, citing military sources, the United States has attempted to bomb locations in Iran where it believes the missing pilot might be, effectively trying to kill him. The report said the bombings targeted areas in Kohgiluyeh city of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province, based on suspicions that the pilot was hiding there. The source did not confirm whether the pilot is currently in Iranian custody but suggested that the United States may not have been truthful about the first pilot it claimed to have rescued. The situation underscores rising tensions in the ongoing US-Israeli military operations and uncertainty surrounding the fate of the missing pilot.

The BSCIC industrial estate in Srimangal, Moulvibazar, built at a cost of about Tk 50 crore, has remained unused for six years since its completion in 2019. Despite having 122 plots and full infrastructure including administrative and residential buildings, pump house, dumping yard, and pond, no industrial plant has started operations. The site has turned into a jungle, with key installations and equipment stolen due to neglect and lack of maintenance. The project began in 2012 on 20 acres of land in Uttarsur area to promote industrialization. However, electricity, gas, and water connections are now largely nonfunctional. Local sources report theft of gas substation parts, transformers, and metal fittings. Entrepreneurs cite high plot prices, poor services, and administrative complications as major deterrents. One investor, Shamim Akter Hossain of Do Impex Ltd, said he suffered financial losses after returning a plot without full refund. BSCIC officials claim new plots are being allocated under conditions requiring factories within two years, and inactive owners have been notified. The Upazila Nirbahi Officer stated that higher authorities have been informed and some work has already resumed.

A recent Reuters-Ipsos poll found that 56 percent of Americans believe the ongoing war with Iran will negatively affect the U.S. economy. The survey, conducted from March 27 to 29 across the United States, included responses from 1,021 participants. Only 7 percent thought the war would have a positive impact, while 12 percent expected no effect. About 25 percent did not answer the question. The poll also revealed widespread concern for U.S. military personnel, with 86 percent of respondents expressing worry about the safety of service members involved in the conflict. In addition, 52 percent said they believe the U.S. military operation will worsen stability in the Middle East, while 21 percent expect conditions to improve. The findings highlight growing public anxiety over both economic and security consequences of the U.S. military campaign in Iran, reflecting skepticism about its potential to bring regional stability.

Bangladesh Bank has provided Tk 2,721 crore in short-term liquidity support to the newly formed Sammilit Islami Bank, created through the merger of five struggling Islamic banks. The three-month loan was issued after deposit withdrawals surged during merger discussions, forcing the central bank to inject funds. The merged institutions include First Security Islami Bank, Social Islami Bank, EXIM Bank, Union Bank, and Global Islami Bank. According to official data, EXIM Bank received the largest share of Tk 1,564 crore, followed by Social Islami Bank with Tk 482 crore, First Security Islami Bank with Tk 416 crore, Union Bank with Tk 161 crore, and Global Islami Bank with Tk 98 crore. The merged bank has an authorized capital of Tk 40,000 crore and paid-up capital of Tk 35,000 crore, with the government contributing Tk 20,000 crore. Around 7.8 million depositors are being compensated through an insurance fund totaling Tk 12,000 crore. Bangladesh Bank Governor Md. Mostakur Rahman recently directed administrators to recover embezzled funds by April through foreign legal assistance. As of December, the merged banks held Tk 196,827 crore in total loans, with 84.23 percent classified as non-performing.

Bangladesh’s apparel exports to the United States declined by 8.53 percent in January and February 2026 compared with the same period in 2025, according to data from the US Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA). Both the average unit price and export volume dropped, by 2.47 percent and 6.21 percent respectively, leading to an overall contraction in export earnings. Analysts attribute the decline to a broader downturn in US apparel imports, which fell 13.47 percent due to high inflation and interest rates reducing consumer purchasing power. While Bangladesh’s exports shrank, Vietnam and Cambodia recorded growth of 2.86 percent and 18.43 percent respectively, intensifying competition in the US market. Industry observers noted that these countries benefited from faster production capacity expansion, product diversification, and favorable labor and trade policies. Despite the challenges, China’s apparel exports to the US plunged 57.65 percent during the same period, creating potential opportunities for Bangladesh. Exporters and the BGMEA emphasized the need to enhance competitiveness through cost control, efficiency, infrastructure improvement, and policy support to sustain market share and capitalize on emerging prospects.