Iran’s national currency, the rial, fell to a record low against the US dollar on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. In the free market, one dollar traded for 1,620,500 rials, marking the steepest decline in the country’s currency history. According to currency tracking website Bonbast, the previous day’s rate was around 1.5 million rials per dollar, meaning the rial lost about 150,000 in value within a single day.

The sharp depreciation comes amid ongoing anti-government protests that began late last month. In response to the unrest, Iran’s government shut down internet access on January 7, making it difficult to obtain reliable exchange rate data from regional markets in Istanbul, Baghdad, and along the Afghan border. Bonbast noted that the blackout has obscured the rial’s true market value.

Market instability intensified after US President Donald Trump announced that a large American naval fleet was moving toward Iran. Analysts fear possible naval blockades or attacks on Iran’s oil and gas facilities. Economists believe continued political tension, economic crisis, and international pressure could further weaken the rial.

After successful negotiations with Syria’s new government, President Donald Trump reversed long-standing US policy toward the country by lifting several sanctions and ending Washington’s cooperation with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The move left the SDF without protection and effectively ended hopes for Kurdish autonomy in northeastern Syria under American backing. Following the shift, Syrian government forces captured large territories from SDF control on January 20, prompting the group to renew a ceasefire with Damascus that includes integrating SDF fighters into the national army.

The policy change marks a major geopolitical turn in Syria’s prolonged civil conflict, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Saudi Arabia reportedly playing key roles. The SDF, once a key US partner in the fight against the Islamic State, now faces isolation as Washington aligns with Damascus in the anti-IS coalition. US envoy Tom Barrack stated that the SDF’s original mission had effectively ended, angering Kurdish leaders who had relied on earlier US assurances.

Analysts suggest the withdrawal of US support signals the end of over a decade of Kurdish self-rule in Syria’s northeast, consolidating President Ahmed al-Sharar’s control over the country’s largest territory since the war began in 2012.

Bangladesh’s liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sector has plunged into severe instability over the past month, with widespread shortages, closed filling stations, and prices soaring beyond consumers’ reach. Despite steady demand growth, supply has sharply declined as several major private companies reduced or halted imports. Officials and industry insiders attribute the crisis to long-term planned decisions and the dominance of a powerful business syndicate, rather than solely to international sanctions or Middle East unrest.

According to official data, LPG demand has increased 25-fold in 15 years, but imports fell from 1.61 million tons in 2024 to 1.47 million tons in 2025. Eight large companies, many linked to the former ruling party, have cut imports over the past 18 months, creating a severe supply gap. U.S. sanctions on Iranian-linked vessels further disrupted shipping, leaving many LPG pumps closed nationwide.

Experts and industry leaders have urged the government to intervene directly in LPG trading to stabilize the market. They argue that with proper monitoring and infrastructure development, the state could regain control within six months and restore order to the energy sector.

Turkey has stated that Iran’s stability is essential for regional security, according to a statement made during a National Security Council meeting chaired by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The meeting, held in Ankara, also reviewed developments in Gaza, Syria, and Ukraine, as reported by TRT World.

The council discussed recent events in Iran in detail and reaffirmed Turkey’s readiness to help rebuild Gaza and establish lasting peace in cooperation with its partners. Ankara reiterated its commitment to continue providing extensive humanitarian assistance to Gaza. The council also reaffirmed strong support for Syria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political unity, pledging to continue efforts for the safety, stability, and prosperity of the Syrian people.

Support for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity was also expressed. On Ukraine, Turkey said it would maintain efforts to end the war and achieve lasting peace as soon as possible.

Most rural voters across several upazilas remain unaware of the upcoming constitutional referendum scheduled for February 12, to be held alongside the 13th National Parliamentary Election. Despite government publicity efforts, many villagers do not understand what the ‘yes’ or ‘no’ vote means or why it is being held. Reports from Sunamganj and Dinajpur show that while voters are familiar with the parliamentary election, they are largely uninformed about the additional referendum ballot.

Local officials claim that awareness activities are underway, including banners, festoons, loudspeaker announcements, and leaflet distribution. However, residents say these campaigns are mostly limited to upazila centers and marketplaces, leaving remote villages uninformed. Some voters expressed confusion, saying they had only heard about the MP election, not the referendum.

District and upazila administrators have emphasized that the referendum vote is voluntary and that the government’s goal is to ensure voters understand the process before election day. Concerns remain that lack of awareness could cause confusion at polling centers.

In Rajshahi-5 (Puthia-Durgapur), election politics has intensified after two influential BNP leaders decided to contest as independent candidates despite being expelled for violating party discipline. The official BNP nominee, former Puthia Upazila chairman Professor Nazrul Islam, faces challenges from Barrister Rezaul Karim and industrialist Isfa Khairul Haque Shimul, both long-time local BNP figures. Their refusal to withdraw has deepened divisions within the party and created new calculations among grassroots activists.

Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami, fielding its Puthia Upazila chief Munzur Rahman as a single candidate, is campaigning vigorously to exploit BNP’s internal conflict. Political analysts suggest Jamaat is determined to strengthen its position amid BNP’s disunity. Other contenders include candidates from the Bangladesh Supreme Party, Islami Andolan Bangladesh, and another independent.

Local voters have expressed mixed reactions, emphasizing performance over promises. With 349,138 registered voters in the constituency, observers note that the final outcome may hinge on how the rebel candidates influence BNP’s traditional vote base.

In Rangpur-3 constituency, comprising the city corporation and sadar upazila, BNP’s official candidate Shamsuzzaman Samu faces internal conflict as rebel candidate Rita Rahman enters the race. Both are accusing each other of wrongdoing to win voter support, creating an opening for other contenders including Jamaat’s Professor Mahbubur Rahman Belal, Jatiya Party chairman GM Quader, Islami Andolon’s Amiruzzaman Pial, BSD’s Abdul Kuddus, and independent candidate Anowara Islam Rani. Observers say these parties are working intensively to exploit BNP’s division.

The dispute began after BNP’s high command nominated Samu, prompting Rita Rahman to announce her independent candidacy, alleging corruption and demanding Samu’s nomination be revoked. Samu’s supporters claim Rahman lives abroad and lacks local commitment, while Rahman’s camp accuses Samu of extortion and being an outsider. District BNP leader and former MP Professor Paritosh Chakraborty warned that rebel candidates weaken the party and urged unity behind the official nominee.

Local analysts suggest the internal rift could shift votes toward Jamaat and other smaller parties, potentially altering the constituency’s electoral outcome.

The army arrested Sohel Jahan Chowdhury, a member of the Eidgaon Upazila unit of the Awami League in Cox’s Bazar, early Thursday morning from his home. The operation was led by Major Intisar Salim, in charge of the Islamabadh army camp, and Chowdhury was handed over to Cox’s Bazar Sadar Model Police Station. The local officer-in-charge confirmed the arrest, noting that Chowdhury had previously faced several serious cases, including murder and the July Revolution case, but had continued serving as a union chairman after the fall of the previous government.

Earlier, Chowdhury had been removed from his chairman post for absenteeism but recently reappeared in public, openly seeking votes for BNP candidate Lutfur Rahman Kajol in Cox’s Bazar-3 constituency. His sudden shift in political allegiance and campaign activities stirred widespread discussion and anger among Awami League supporters and anti-fascist student groups.

Local observers believe Chowdhury’s move to support the BNP was an attempt to avoid arrest and reestablish his political standing, though it reportedly caused unease within sections of the BNP itself.

At an election rally in Comilla’s Debidwar New Market area on Wednesday, NCP spokesperson Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan urged voters to support the 11-party alliance in the upcoming February 12 polls. He pledged that if the alliance comes to power, Comilla would be declared a division and those responsible for the killing of Hadi would be arrested within a month. Bhuiyan said voters should demand justice for Hadi’s murder from anyone seeking their votes.

Bhuiyan, who also chairs the NCP election steering committee, said Bangladesh stands at a historical crossroads and called on citizens to end 17 years of oppression by electing the alliance. He emphasized empowering youth through dignified employment and criticized nominations of “bank looters and foreign citizens.” He accused BNP leaders of attacking alliance candidates and women and of running conflicting campaigns regarding the referendum.

Other speakers, including NCP member-secretary Monira Sharmin and Jamaat-e-Islami leaders, echoed calls to vote for the alliance’s candidates and resist vote center takeovers. They urged voters to reject extortionists, loan defaulters, and foreign nationals in the election.

Professor Dr. Md. Fakhrul Islam described a recent visit to Cox’s Bazar, where he observed a large plastic sculpture at Sugandha Point built to raise awareness about plastic pollution. He highlighted how plastic waste has become a growing environmental threat to the world’s longest natural sea beach, with single-use plastics from tourists and businesses accumulating in the sand and sea. The professor warned that plastic waste is breaking down into microplastics, entering the marine food chain, and ultimately affecting humans.

He noted that despite a legal ban on polythene in Bangladesh, enforcement in Cox’s Bazar remains weak. Hotels, restaurants, and beach vendors continue to use plastic due to its low cost and availability. The article calls for strict monitoring, fines, and promotion of affordable eco-friendly alternatives. It also emphasizes community-based waste management, recycling initiatives, and environmental education for children and tourists.

The professor further pointed out the problem of stray dogs and animal waste on the beach, urging authorities to take immediate measures. He concluded that protecting Cox’s Bazar requires coordinated national action to preserve its natural beauty and ecological balance.

The Bangladesh government plans to provide incentives to potato farmers after many suffered losses due to low market prices. According to the Department of Agricultural Extension, farmers have reduced potato cultivation this season compared to last year, raising concerns about lower production. Farmers are shifting to other vegetables such as eggplant, pumpkin, and bottle gourd following advice from agricultural officials. Agriculture and Home Affairs Adviser Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury confirmed that the incentive plan aims to support affected growers.

Officials said domestic potato demand is around nine million tons, but last season’s production reached over 11.5 million tons, leaving a surplus that could not be exported due to excessive pesticide and fertilizer use. Only certain varieties like Sunshine, Granola, and Diamond are being exported. Exporters noted that limited cultivation of export-quality potatoes restricts market potential despite strong global demand.

Export data from the Export Promotion Bureau show a decline in potato exports from 62,726 metric tons in 2021–22 to 32,392 metric tons in 2022–23, with export earnings dropping from over $33 million in 2013–14 to around $10 million in recent years.

An opinion essay by Shahid Kamrul, published on January 29, 2026, examines Bangladesh’s political direction ahead of the next election. It questions whether the country will move toward restoring democratic values or continue under authoritarian control. The author criticizes the ruling Awami League for corruption, dynastic politics, and suppression of opposition, while noting that the BNP has weakened due to internal divisions and leadership crises. Jamaat-e-Islami is described as disciplined but still controversial. The essay argues that voters now seek a principled, transparent, and inclusive political alternative.

Kamrul outlines the characteristics of an ideal political party for Bangladesh—one that is ethical, policy-driven, and institutionally democratic rather than leader-centric. He emphasizes internal democracy, rule of law, social justice, education reform, equitable healthcare, environmental protection, and technological self-reliance. The essay draws on philosophical ideas from Locke, Habermas, and others to argue that true democracy requires pluralism and citizen participation.

The author concludes that building such a party is difficult within Bangladesh’s entrenched power structures and corruption, but essential for creating a just, self-reliant, and prosperous nation.

The United States has decided to return a recently seized oil tanker to Venezuela, according to two unnamed U.S. officials who confirmed the decision on Wednesday, as reported by Reuters. The vessel, identified as MT Sophia, is a Panama-flagged supertanker. No official explanation has yet been provided for why the U.S. is returning the ship.

Over the past several months, the United States has conducted operations targeting oil tankers linked to Venezuela. Since late last year, at least seven such vessels have been seized. MT Sophia was captured on January 7 this year during a joint operation by the U.S. Coast Guard and military while it was carrying oil. At that time, U.S. authorities described it as a “stateless and sanctioned dark fleet tanker.” It remains unclear whether the tanker currently contains oil.

Neither the U.S. Coast Guard nor Venezuela’s communications ministry has issued any immediate comment regarding the decision or the vessel’s current status.

Senior sports journalist and author Sharada Ugra has alleged that the International Cricket Council (ICC) operates under the influence of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Speaking on The Wire’s program ‘The Interview,’ she claimed that the ICC has effectively become BCCI’s Dubai office, following its directives without question. Her remarks come amid escalating tensions involving Bangladesh, India, and the ICC ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup, as Bangladesh’s request to shift match venues over security concerns was rejected.

The controversy began when Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman was reportedly dropped from the Indian Premier League under what Ugra described as “unwritten, unofficial instructions.” She argued that the move was politically motivated, linked to strained India-Bangladesh relations and upcoming elections in Assam and West Bengal. Ugra criticized the ICC’s refusal to relocate Bangladesh’s matches to Sri Lanka, calling it double standards compared to the hybrid model allowed for India-Pakistan fixtures.

According to Ugra, India’s dominance has undermined the credibility of the World Cup and turned cricket into a political tool. She warned that ICC’s perceived bias could damage its global reputation and raise governance questions as cricket seeks inclusion in the Olympics.

The Ministry of Cultural Affairs has cancelled the contractual appointment of Afsana Begum as director of the National Book Centre, citing irregularities and actions allegedly opposing the principles of the July uprising. The decision was followed by the appointment of writer and poet Sakhawat Tipu to the same post. Ministry officials claimed that Afsana Begum’s tenure was marked by favoritism in book selection and the promotion of narratives aligned with the previous Awami regime.

Officials alleged that the 2024–25 book selection list included multiple works by authors linked to the former government while excluding books supportive of the July uprising. They also accused Afsana Begum of forming a syndicate that gave undue advantage to preferred publishers and of attempting to challenge the ministry’s oversight authority. The ministry’s secretary stated that the cancellation was a routine administrative action consistent with government policy.

Afsana Begum denied all allegations, asserting that the selection process followed official guidelines and that final approval of book lists rested with the ministry. She argued that any controversy over the selected titles should be directed at the approving authorities rather than the committee.