BNP lawmaker Lutfullahel Majed from Mymensingh-8 (Ishwarganj) has called for building social resistance against teenage gangs. On Thursday morning, through a verified Facebook post, he urged residents to raise their voices in every area, prepare lists of gang members with names, fathers’ names, and photos, and take a united stand against them. He warned that any political leader providing shelter to such groups would face action. Majed also emphasized ensuring the safety of school-going girls and encouraged community unity to drive out offenders. Local residents responded in the comment section, reporting gang activities across various unions. Hashim Uddin, head teacher of Sakhua Adarsha High School, noted a rise in teenage gang crimes nationwide, including harassment of schoolgirls and recording videos on mobile phones, and suggested increased police patrols during school hours. Another commenter, Russell Pathan, alleged that teenage gangs in Uchakhila Bazar were involved in theft, robbery, and drug dealing, urging swift legal action. Earlier, Majed had posted separately about forming market monitoring teams to prevent price manipulation during Ramadan.

Qatar has announced a one billion dollar donation to the Peace Council formed by U.S. President Donald Trump to support Gaza’s reconstruction. The announcement was made by Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani during the council’s first meeting at the United States Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C. He reaffirmed Qatar’s long-standing commitment to peace and mediation, emphasizing that the council will work to fully implement a 20-point plan under President Trump’s leadership. According to Sheikh Mohammed, the council’s implementation of the plan aims to ensure justice and equality for both Palestinians and Israelis. He stated that Qatar’s contribution is intended to help achieve a final resolution that fulfills Palestinians’ aspirations for statehood and international recognition, while addressing Israel’s security and regional integration goals. The Peace Council was announced on January 10 as part of efforts to end the Gaza conflict. The UN Security Council later approved post-war management structures under Resolution 2803, assigning the council responsibilities for reconstruction, aid coordination, transitional security, and advancing regional peace processes.

Iran has warned that it will launch retaliatory attacks on US bases and related facilities in the Middle East if it faces military aggression. The warning came after US President Donald Trump gave Iran 10 to 15 days to reach an agreement, threatening military action otherwise. Iran’s permanent representative to the United Nations conveyed the message in a letter to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, stating that Tehran does not seek war but will respond if attacked, and that the United States would bear full responsibility for any escalation. The exchange of threats followed the second round of talks between the United States and Iran, mediated by Oman. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the Geneva discussions had made “good progress,” but noted that the US had strengthened its military presence in the Gulf region by deploying two aircraft carriers and several warplanes. The developments highlight rising tensions between Washington and Tehran despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, with both sides signaling readiness for confrontation if negotiations fail.

Bangladesh’s political landscape has shifted dramatically as Tarique Rahman, son of former president Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, has been elected the country’s new prime minister. After more than a decade in exile in the United Kingdom, he returned to contest and win the 13th national election. His rise follows a turbulent history, including severe injuries during detention under the 2008 military-backed government. The article describes his journey from a grassroots BNP activist to the nation’s top leadership, emphasizing his decision to seek votes based on reform plans rather than family legacy. The commentary highlights the challenges Rahman faces, including widespread corruption, weakened law enforcement morale, and politicization of state institutions. It urges him to prioritize anti-corruption measures, national unity, and transformation of Bangladesh’s economy from labor-based to knowledge-based through investment in education, research, and skilled workforce development. The author stresses that success will depend on equitable wealth distribution and avoiding the concentration of power and wealth that led to the previous government’s downfall. If Rahman can unite the nation, eliminate corruption, and build a globally competitive economy, the article concludes, he may truly become a “people’s prime minister.”

North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party has begun its key congress in the capital, Pyongyang, held once every five years. The gathering has drawn attention for possible announcements on the country’s next steps in its nuclear program. In his opening speech, Kim Jong Un called for accelerating economic development, improving living standards, and driving rapid change across all sectors. He also criticized defeatism and poor leadership within the party, which observers interpret as a warning of potential disciplinary actions against some officials. State media reported that despite hardships since the 2021 congress, the country is entering a new phase of hope and confidence. The congress will set directions on housing construction, economic planning, and military strategy, and it traditionally concludes with a military parade showcasing new weapons. Kim has previously stated that the congress will outline plans to strengthen the nation’s nuclear arsenal, while scientists are believed to be developing smaller warheads for long-range missiles. Western sanctions continue to pressure North Korea’s economy, aimed at cutting funding for its nuclear program. Analysts suggest Kim may emphasize nuclear progress and closer ties with China and Russia during the event.

At the first meeting of the Peace Board held in Washington, D.C., and chaired by U.S. President Donald Trump, nine member countries pledged a total of $7 billion for the reconstruction of the war-torn Gaza Strip. The session also saw five countries agree to deploy troops as part of an international stability force for Palestinian territories. According to the report, the United States will contribute $10 billion to the Peace Board, though Trump did not specify how the funds would be used. Trump named Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, and Kuwait as the nations contributing the initial down payment for Gaza’s rebuilding. He stated that every dollar would be spent to establish stability and that the Peace Board demonstrates how a better future can be built. The estimated total cost for Gaza’s reconstruction is around $70 billion, making the pledged amount only a fraction of what is needed. Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania have pledged to send troops to the international force, while Egypt and Jordan have agreed to train police officers as part of Trump’s 20-point plan to end the war in Gaza.

Political discussions have intensified over who will receive nominations for the reserved women’s seats in Bangladesh’s 13th Parliament. More than fifty women leaders from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) are being considered as potential candidates. Party sources said that the BNP, which secured an absolute majority in the recent parliamentary election, is giving high importance to the distribution of these seats. The party’s central offices in Naya Paltan and Gulshan have seen increased activity as aspirants seek to attract the attention of the leadership. According to the Election Commission, the BNP-led alliance may receive 35 reserved women’s seats, while the Jamaat-led alliance could get 13. The Parliament Secretariat is expected to prepare the voter list after the first session in early March, followed by the announcement of the election schedule. The Election Commission plans to complete the process before Eid. BNP insiders said that priority may be given to women who have been active in movements, faced imprisonment, or contributed to strengthening grassroots organizations, along with professionals, academics, and former student leaders. A preliminary list will be shortened before final approval by the party’s parliamentary board, with no list finalized without the endorsement of BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman.

Bangladesh’s newly appointed Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury faces a major challenge as repayment periods for several foreign-funded mega infrastructure projects begin. Over the past decade, projects such as the Padma Rail Link, Metro Rail, Karnaphuli Tunnel, Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, and Cox’s Bazar Rail have driven infrastructure growth but also created heavy debt burdens. With grace periods ending, large installments and interest payments in foreign currency are now due, straining the national budget. According to official documents from the Asian Development Bank and the Planning Commission, project costs have risen 30–70 percent beyond initial estimates. The Padma Rail project’s cost rose from Tk 26,000 crore to Tk 39,000 crore, while Metro Rail’s cost increased from Tk 21,000 crore to over Tk 33,000 crore. Repayments for some projects, including Cox’s Bazar Rail and Karnaphuli Tunnel, have already started, while others like Rooppur will begin in 2028. Experts warn that without improved revenue collection, subsidy reduction, and better project management, Bangladesh could face severe fiscal pressure within five years, potentially forcing budget cuts and new taxes to meet repayment obligations.

A new report by the United Nations Human Rights Office accuses Israel of actions that may amount to ethnic cleansing in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. Released on Thursday, the report says Israel’s military campaign and blockade have made life in Gaza “increasingly incompatible with Palestinians’ continued existence as a group.” It cites intensified attacks, destruction of neighborhoods, and denial of humanitarian aid as evidence of an apparent effort to cause a permanent demographic shift. Covering the period from November 1, 2024, to October 31, 2025, the report documents systematic unlawful force, arbitrary detention, and home demolitions in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The report highlights widespread famine and the killing of unprecedented numbers of civilians in Gaza, noting that at least 463 Palestinians, including 157 children, starved to death during the 12-month period. It attributes these deaths to Israeli government actions that blocked food access. Meanwhile, Israeli forces continue air strikes and demolitions across Gaza, violating a ceasefire that began on October 10, 2025. Violence has also surged in the West Bank, with settlers attacking Palestinian communities under military protection. The report warns that these policies are altering the demographic composition of Palestinian territories and deepening humanitarian collapse.

Pakistan and New Zealand will open the Super Eights stage of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on Saturday, February 21, at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Both teams, considered dark horses for the title, are looking to make a strong start in this crucial phase of the tournament. Pakistan enter the match after a commanding 102-run victory over Namibia that secured their Super Eights berth, while New Zealand finished their group stage with an eight-wicket win against Canada. Pakistan’s Shadab Khan expressed confidence that his side could go on to win the World Cup, calling their recent performance a sign of progress after earlier setbacks, including a heavy defeat to India. He cautioned, however, that the Super Eights will be tougher, with England and co-hosts Sri Lanka also awaiting Pakistan. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner is expected to return after illness, with spin likely to play a key role in Colombo’s conditions. This will be the 50th T20 meeting between the two nations, with Pakistan narrowly leading the head-to-head record 24–23. Both sides hope to establish early momentum in their pursuit of the title.

New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez announced on Thursday that the state has reopened its investigation into possible illegal activity at Jeffrey Epstein’s former Zorro Ranch near Stanley. The decision follows the release of more than three and a half million government files by the U.S. Department of Justice on January 30, which included previously sealed FBI documents. Torrez’s office said the new revelations warranted further examination of the earlier state probe, which was halted in 2019 at the request of federal prosecutors in New York, the same year Epstein was arrested on sex trafficking charges. The renewed investigation coincides with the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, a former UK royal, on suspicion of misconduct in public office linked to allegations of sharing confidential documents with Epstein. The Epstein scandal has triggered political fallout in the UK but not in the U.S., where critics have accused the Justice Department of lacking transparency. In New Mexico, lawmakers have formed a truth commission to investigate Epstein’s ties to the state and why he was not registered as a sex offender there after his 2008 conviction. Torrez’s office said it will cooperate with the commission and seek full access to unredacted federal case files to determine whether further legal action is warranted.

Emails released in newly published United States Department of Justice files reveal that Jeffrey Epstein, the late convicted sex offender, was offered the chance in 2016 to buy into a large building complex tied to the Department of Defense. The 84,710-square-metre site, located about one mile from the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, was described as a mission-critical property capable of meeting the Defense Department’s infrastructure needs. The proposed $116 million deal would have made Epstein a co-owner and landlord to the U.S. government, though there is no evidence the transaction occurred. The documents also show Epstein’s extensive ties to Israel, including a decade-long relationship with former Prime Minister Ehud Barak and financial support for Israeli organizations such as Friends of the Israeli Army and the Jewish National Fund. An FBI informant memo described Epstein as a “Mossad agent.” The Pentagon-linked offer was forwarded by businessman David Stern, who also proposed a separate 2015 investment in FBI field offices and courthouses. Both property proposals were originated by real estate investor Jonathan D Fascitelli.

The United States trade deficit widened sharply in December, reaching a five-month high of $70.3 billion, according to the Commerce Department. The goods trade shortfall for 2025 hit a record $1.24 trillion, despite tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump on foreign-manufactured products. Imports rose 3.6 percent in December to $357.6 billion, driven by higher purchases of industrial supplies, copper, crude oil, and capital goods such as computer accessories and telecommunications equipment. Exports fell 1.7 percent to $287.3 billion, though semiconductor and pharmaceutical shipments increased. The report showed that trade made little or no contribution to fourth-quarter GDP growth. American companies boosted imports of computer chips and other technology goods from Taiwan to support large-scale investments in artificial intelligence. While the goods trade deficit with China dropped nearly 32 percent to $202 billion amid ongoing tensions, trade shifted toward Taiwan and Vietnam, where deficits rose sharply. Factory employment declined by 83,000 jobs between January 2025 and January 2026, underscoring limited benefits from tariffs. Economists noted that strong imports may reflect robust business investment, particularly in AI-related infrastructure such as data centers, suggesting continued demand for technology equipment.

The United Nations announced that the United States has paid about $160 million toward its nearly $4 billion in outstanding dues. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said the payment will go to the organisation’s regular operating budget. The move comes as President Donald Trump’s administration has questioned its commitment to the UN and cut funding for international programmes. However, during the inaugural meeting of his Board of Peace in Washington, DC, Trump said he intended to help ensure the UN remains viable. According to the UN, the US owes about $2.196 billion to its regular budget, including $767 million for the current year, and another $1.8 billion for peacekeeping operations. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recently warned that the UN faces an “imminent financial collapse” unless member states pay their dues, noting that the regular budget could be depleted as early as July. The US, as the largest donor, accounts for roughly 95 percent of the arrears. Trump’s creation of the Board of Peace, officially tasked with overseeing the Gaza ceasefire, has drawn criticism from those who see it as a rival to the UN Security Council. Critics argue it could undermine the UN’s authority and global operations.

US President Donald Trump has warned that Iran has about 10 to 15 days to reach an agreement with Washington or risk further military strikes. Speaking at the inaugural Board of Peace meeting in Washington, DC, Trump linked last year’s joint Israeli-US strikes on Iran to the Gaza ceasefire and said those attacks paved the way for regional peace. He added that his aides Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner had held productive meetings with Iranian representatives, emphasizing the need for a “meaningful deal.” The warning follows a second round of indirect US-Iran talks in Geneva, where Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said both sides made good progress and reached broad agreement on guiding principles. Despite this, the US continues to build up military assets in the Gulf, while Iran insists its missile program is non-negotiable and denies seeking nuclear weapons. Washington opposes any uranium enrichment by Tehran. Tensions have remained high since late 2025, when Trump vowed to strike Iran again if it rebuilt its nuclear or missile programs. Although negotiations resumed in Oman in February, both sides continue to exchange threats amid fragile diplomacy.