Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced on Friday that his Bhumjaithai Party will form a coalition government with the Thaksin-backed Pheu Thai Party, which finished third in the February 8 general election. According to the Election Commission, Bhumjaithai won 193 of the 500 seats in the House of Representatives, followed by the reformist People’s Party with 118 seats and Pheu Thai with 74 seats. The alliance would give Anutin’s party a parliamentary majority, paving the way for a stable coalition after a period of political turbulence. Anutin said after discussions with Pheu Thai leaders that they would work together to govern the country effectively. Pheu Thai, once Thailand’s most successful party, suffered its worst electoral performance this time, raising concerns about its future. Bhumjaithai previously belonged to a Pheu Thai-led coalition formed after the 2023 election but withdrew in June following a leaked phone call between then-Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and former Cambodian leader Hun Sen. Paetongtarn was later dismissed by court order, and Anutin replaced her before dissolving parliament in December, triggering the snap election.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a sweeping victory in Chattogram during the 13th parliamentary election, winning 14 out of 16 constituencies. Despite generating enthusiasm among voters, Jamaat-e-Islami managed to win only two seats. Analysts in the city have begun assessing why BNP’s grassroots-oriented approach succeeded while Jamaat, though active in both offline and online campaigns, failed to convert its momentum into votes. Jamaat-aligned professional leader Engineer Manjeri Khorshed Alam attributed the party’s poor performance to several factors, including backlash over job dismissals following the recovery of five banks previously under S. Alam Group’s control. He noted that Jamaat’s candidates, though educated and clean in image, lacked mass appeal and electoral experience. BNP, on the other hand, benefited from its populist politics, long-standing opposition to Awami League repression, and the renewed leadership image of Tarique Rahman. Civic leader Akhtar Kabir Chowdhury observed that BNP’s superior coalition management and moderate image helped attract floating voters who were reluctant to support Jamaat. Analysts suggested that BNP must now carefully manage public expectations to sustain its winning momentum.

The United States has withdrawn its remaining military units from the strategically important Al-Tanf base in Syria, located near the Iraq and Jordan borders. Following the withdrawal, the Syrian Arab Army took control of the base in coordination with the American side, according to a statement from Syria’s defense ministry. The ministry said the area has been secured and that military units have begun deployment along the Syria-Iraq-Jordan border, with border guards to follow. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the withdrawal, describing it as orderly and part of agreed conditions. CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper stated that US forces remain ready to respond to any emerging ISIL threats while supporting partner-led efforts to prevent the resurgence of terrorist networks. The Pentagon had announced in April 2025 that troops deployed in Syria since 2019 would be withdrawn, fulfilling that plan now. The Al-Tanf base was established in 2014 as a key hub for the global coalition against ISIL during Syria’s civil war. The withdrawal comes months after Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara, formerly a rebel leader, joined the anti-ISIL coalition, with the Trump administration expressing support for his government.

In the 13th parliamentary election, the lone National Citizen Party (NCP) candidate in Chattogram, Zobairul Hasan Arif, lost his deposit after securing only 2,906 votes, equivalent to 0.52 percent of total voters in the Chattogram-8 constituency, which includes Boalkhali, Chandgaon, and Panchlaish. According to the returning officer’s office, the constituency had 554,729 registered voters, with 256,134 votes cast. BNP candidate Ershad Ullah received 150,737 votes and was unofficially declared elected, while Jamaat-e-Islami’s Abu Naser came second with 52,033 votes. Under the Election Commission’s circular, a candidate forfeits their deposit if they fail to secure one-eighth of the total votes cast in the constituency. As Arif did not meet this threshold, his deposit was forfeited. Two other candidates in the same constituency also lost their deposits: Nurul Alam of Islami Andolan Bangladesh, who received 1,188 votes, and Emdadul Haque of Insoniyat Biplob Bangladesh, who received 870 votes. Across Chattogram’s 16 constituencies, BNP candidates won 14 seats, while Jamaat-e-Islami secured the remaining two.

Anwarul Islam Raju, the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami–nominated candidate supported by an 11-party alliance, has alleged widespread irregularities in vote counting for the Lalmonirhat-1 (Hatibandha-Patgram) constituency during the 13th National Parliamentary Election. At a press conference held at his residence on Friday, February 13, he claimed that serious discrepancies occurred in several centers across Jagatber, Jongra, Sreerampur unions, and Patgram municipality, particularly after 5:30 p.m. on February 12. He alleged manipulation and delays in result announcements and inconsistencies between the declared results and presiding officers’ count sheets. Raju further stated that some centers reported no invalid ballots, which he described as unusual and possibly deliberate manipulation. He accused certain presiding officers of biased behavior and said delays in publishing results raised public suspicion. He has submitted a written petition to the Election Commission, attaching photocopies of count sheets from 137 centers as evidence, and formally requested a recount of votes cast in Hatibandha and Patgram upazilas. According to Raju, a recount would reveal the true outcome of the election. Local journalists, political activists, and supporters attended the press conference.

Advocate Abdus Salam Azad, the BNP-nominated candidate, reclaimed the Munshiganj-2 constituency with more than double the votes of his nearest rival. The results were announced on Thursday night by District Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner Nurmahal Ashrafi. Following the announcement, BNP leaders and activists celebrated the victory, while the winning candidate expressed gratitude to Allah. According to the official results, Abdus Salam Azad received 121,154 votes under the paddy sheaf symbol, while his closest competitor, Majedul Islam of the National Citizens Party (NCP), secured 58,573 votes. K.M. Billal of Islami Andolan Bangladesh obtained 13,387 votes, Md. Noman Mia of Jatiya Party received 2,857, and Ashiq Mahmud of Islamic Front Bangladesh got 651 votes. Three candidates—Billal, Noman Mia, and Ashiq Mahmud—lost their deposits for failing to secure the minimum required votes. The constituency has 372,833 registered voters, including 190,239 men and 182,594 women. Analysts noted that the newly formed NCP performed notably well, though the BNP candidate’s victory margin remained more than double.

Following the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s (BNP) sweeping victory in the 13th national parliamentary election, prayers and thanksgiving gatherings were held across the country on Friday after Jumu’ah prayers. Events took place in mosques and BNP offices in districts including Barishal, Rajbari, Bhola, Mymensingh, and Bogura. In Gournadi, Barishal, local BNP leaders organized a special prayer at the central Eidgah field, while similar gatherings were reported in Rajbari’s Anjumane Qaderia Mosque and Bhola’s Uttar Bazar Markaz Jame Mosque. In Rajbari, newly elected MP Ali Nawaz Mahmud Shahid sought prayers for late leaders Ziaur Rahman, Khaleda Zia, and Arafat Rahman Koko. In Bhola, former MP Hafiz Ibrahim addressed worshippers, stating that no victory rallies would be held and that Tarique Rahman requested prayers for national development. In Mymensingh’s Gauripur, BNP postponed planned celebrations and instead held prayers in accordance with central directives. The events reflected BNP’s call for gratitude and unity following its nationwide electoral success, with prayers offered for the country’s welfare, the party’s leadership, and the souls of deceased leaders.

On Saturday, February 14, 2026, flower growers in Gadkhali, known as the flower capital of Jashore’s Jhikargacha, reported a sharp fall in flower prices due to the national election. Despite high demand for Valentine’s Day, sales dropped drastically. Last year, flowers worth about Tk 15 crore were sold during the same period, but this year the figure is expected to fall to around Tk 5 crore. Farmers said wholesale buyers could not reach the market because of transport disruptions linked to the election. Growers described steep price declines across all varieties: roses sold for Tk 7–8 per piece, gladiolus for Tk 6–12, tuberose for Tk 3–5, gerbera for Tk 6–8, marigold for Tk 200–300 per thousand, gypsy for Tk 40–50 per bunch, and chrysanthemum for Tk 150–250 per hundred. Many farmers expressed frustration over losses and limited access to mobile banking services that hindered local deliveries. Officials from local flower associations confirmed that the election and the upcoming Ramadan season reduced market activity, leaving growers without fair prices for their produce.

In the 13th parliamentary election, Kurigram-4 constituency witnessed a rare contest between two brothers. Azizur Rahman contested with the paddy sheaf symbol, while his younger brother Mostafizur Rahman ran with the scales symbol. The election drew widespread attention among voters due to the family rivalry. Mostafizur Rahman won by a margin of 23,787 votes, securing 108,210 votes against Azizur Rahman’s 84,423. Supporters of the younger brother celebrated the victory after the results were announced. Local voter Chayon Patowary expressed satisfaction that the election concluded peacefully and hoped both brothers would work together for the area’s development. Mostafizur Rahman said he began his political journey under his elder brother’s guidance and now intends to work with him and all supporters for the progress of Kurigram-4. He added that the people voted for development and principles, and he aims to serve everyone regardless of political affiliation. The peaceful conclusion of this family contest was seen as a positive example of democratic competition in the region.

Former Attorney General and BNP-backed candidate Advocate Md. Asaduzzaman won the Jhenaidah–1 (Shailkupa) constituency by a large margin, securing 173,381 votes. Following his victory, he visited the home of his rival, Jamaat-e-Islami-nominated candidate ASM Matiur Rahman, on Friday morning, February 13, in Nadpara village of Sarutia Union, Shailkupa. During the courtesy visit, Asaduzzaman presented a bouquet and placed his victory garland around Rahman’s neck in a gesture of goodwill. Both BNP and Jamaat leaders and activists were present at the meeting, exchanging greetings in a cordial atmosphere. Matiur Rahman described the election as fair and peaceful, expressing hope that Asaduzzaman would prioritize the aspirations of the people of Shailkupa and Jhenaidah. In his remarks, Asaduzzaman emphasized unity over division, urging all to work together for nation-building and to honor the sacrifices of the July movement and youth. The election results created a festive mood in the area, as Asaduzzaman’s decisive win over Rahman, who received 57,055 votes, was celebrated by supporters and locals.

BNP candidate Mohammad Aslam Chowdhury, newly elected from Chattogram-4 (Sitakunda) in the 13th National Parliamentary Election, paid a courtesy visit to his rival Jamaat candidate Anwar Siddiqui on Friday, February 13. After the Jumma prayers, Aslam visited Siddiqui’s residence, exchanged greetings, offered sweets, inquired about his health, and wished him well. He called for joint efforts for the overall development of the area, emphasizing unity beyond political rivalry. During the meeting, Aslam Chowdhury stated that electoral competition is part of democracy but that collective work is essential for local progress and prosperity. He urged all to work shoulder to shoulder to fulfill public expectations and sought Siddiqui’s cooperation in this regard. In response, Anwar Siddiqui assured full cooperation and expressed hope that Aslam would play a stronger role in regional development if he assumes ministerial responsibility in the future. Local BNP and Jamaat leaders were present at the meeting. Observers described the initiative as a positive example of political courtesy and mutual respect in local politics.

National Youth Power central committee organizer and former convener of the Sunamganj Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, Imonddoja Ahmed, known as 'July Warrior', was attacked late Friday night in the Kazi Point area of Sunamganj town. According to local and eyewitness sources, he was on his way to attend a meeting at Wasim Akbar’s house ahead of a cricket match scheduled for Saturday at Sunamganj Stadium when a group of assailants armed with sticks and rods launched a sudden attack. The attackers beat him severely, breaking his left arm and leaving injuries on his back, head, and legs. Police arrived quickly after receiving reports, but the attackers fled the scene. Locals rescued the injured leader and admitted him to Sunamganj Sadar Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. District student leader Nihal confirmed that Imonddoja sustained multiple injuries and is under medical care. NCP district coordinator Dewan Sazaur Raja Chowdhury Suman said the reason behind the attack remains unknown and called for those responsible to be brought to justice after investigation.

A district-wide referendum was held across four parliamentary constituencies in Kushtia, with results released by the district election office on February 14, 2026. Kushtia-2 (Mirpur-Veramara) recorded the highest number of yes votes, while Kushtia-4 (Kumarkhali-Khoksa) saw the most no votes. In Kushtia-1 (Daulatpur), 282,585 people voted, with 178,914 yes votes and 64,064 no votes. Kushtia-2 had 348,547 voters, including 238,134 yes votes and 76,161 no votes. Kushtia-3 (Sadar) saw 320,969 voters, with 234,879 yes votes and 65,289 no votes. Kushtia-4 recorded 307,806 votes, with 197,013 yes votes and 85,696 no votes. According to the election office, voter turnout ranged between 69.86 and 72.92 percent across the four constituencies. Kushtia-2 led in total yes votes, while Kushtia-4 had the highest number of no votes. Kushtia-1 recorded the lowest counts in both categories. The results highlight varying levels of support across constituencies, with overall participation exceeding two-thirds of registered voters in each area.

BNP Vice Chairman Md. Shahjahan, who won the Noakhali-4 (Sadar-Subarnachar) constituency in the 13th National Parliamentary Election, visited the home of his defeated rival, Jamaat-e-Islami district chief Ishaq Khandaker, on Friday, February 13. The meeting took place at Khandaker’s residence in Alipur, Ward 4 of Noakhali Municipality, where the two exchanged greetings, shared sweets, and pledged to cooperate in building a modern Noakhali. According to the official results, Shahjahan secured 219,182 votes, while Ishaq Khandaker received 148,989. Shahjahan described the election as competitive but peaceful, emphasizing BNP’s commitment to democratic values, mutual respect, and development beyond political differences. He said the people were happy to vote freely on February 12 after years of restricted political expression. Ishaq Khandaker accepted the results and congratulated Shahjahan, pledging constructive participation for local peace and development. Photos of their meeting circulated widely on social media, drawing praise from users for promoting political harmony. Local BNP leader Harunur Rashid Azad said the gesture reflected tolerance and mutual respect following a fair election.

Rashed Khan, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) candidate for the Jhenaidah-4 (Kaliganj) constituency, lost the parliamentary election to Jamaat-e-Islami’s candidate Abu Talib, who ran under the scale symbol and secured 105,999 votes including postal ballots. Following the result, Rashed Khan posted on Facebook on Friday afternoon, expressing gratitude to the citizens of Jhenaidah-4 for their support and acknowledging the challenges he faced as a newcomer in politics. In his post, Khan thanked local BNP leaders, including former senior joint convener Hamidul Islam Hamid, for their encouragement. He stated that despite conspiracies, he gave his best effort in a short time and was moved by the affection he received. Khan urged supporters to remain patient and united, assuring that development in Jhenaidah-4 would continue under the BNP government. The report noted that internal divisions within the BNP weakened his campaign, as many party members did not accept him and some were expelled. The election outcome reflected a split among BNP voters, with Rashed Khan and independent candidate Saiful Islam Firoz jointly receiving 133,328 votes, while Abu Talib of Jamaat emerged as the winner.