More than three months after a ceasefire in Gaza, Israeli forces have continued attacks and restrictions on humanitarian aid, according to a United Nations briefing on Thursday. UN Secretary-General’s spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said that about 230,000 women and girls, including 15,000 pregnant women, are being denied essential reproductive health services due to Israeli military actions and blockade. The UN Population Fund reported that the destruction of hospitals, clinics, and health centers, along with displacement and flooding, has severely limited access to medical and psychological support.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with civilians suffering from cold and lack of shelter. A six-month-old child reportedly died in Khan Younis due to extreme cold, bringing the winter death toll to 11. Despite the ceasefire, Israeli shelling continued across Gaza, including in Gaza City, Rafah, and Khan Younis. The Palestinian Health Ministry said 477 people have been killed and 1,301 injured in the three months since the ceasefire, with total casualties from the conflict reaching over 71,000 dead and 171,000 injured.

Israeli operations have also intensified in the occupied West Bank, where several Palestinians were recently arrested in Nablus and Bethlehem.

In Comilla, long considered a stronghold of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the upcoming 13th parliamentary election is showing signs of major political shifts. Out of 11 constituencies, BNP faces internal divisions with three rebel candidates and two disqualified nominees, raising the possibility of losing at least six seats. The Jamaat-e-Islami and National Citizen Party (NCP)-led 10-party alliance appears to be gaining ground in several constituencies, particularly where BNP’s vote base is split or weakened.

Election Commission data show 81 candidates have received symbols across Comilla’s 11 constituencies, including 76 party nominees and five independents. Political observers note that after August 2024, national politics took a new turn reflected in recent student elections, influencing local dynamics. Historically, BNP dominated Comilla, winning 11 of 12 seats in 2001, but the current scenario suggests a competitive field.

Analysts indicate that Jamaat-NCP candidates are now in stronger positions in constituencies such as Comilla-2, 4, 9, 10, and 11, while BNP retains relative strength in others where internal disputes are absent.

An analysis published on January 24, 2026, describes increasing harassment and marginalization of Muslim citizens in India, the world’s most populous country. The report argues that Muslims are often told they must remain politically silent to prove loyalty to the state, with their rights and visibility expected to be limited. It notes that since India’s independence in 1947, Muslims have actively participated in democratic and constitutional processes, but their space for legitimate political expression is now shrinking.

The article traces the roots of this ‘exceptionalism’ to the post-partition period, when staying Muslims were viewed as morally distinct from those who left. Historian Mushirul Hasan and theorists Mahmood Mamdani and Hilal Ahmed are cited to show how Muslims have been framed as either loyal and apolitical or suspect when politically active. Media portrayals reinforce this divide, labeling Muslims differently depending on whether they protest or remain silent.

The report concludes that such framing has become institutionalized, with legal and policy reforms presented as neutral while dissenting Muslim voices are dismissed as emotional or regressive.

A final report by the commission on enforced disappearances has revealed detailed witness accounts of a secret Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) operation known as 'Golf Operation'. The report describes how detainees, blindfolded and bound, were taken to secluded locations and shot at close range, often by then Lieutenant Colonel Ziaul Ahsan, later promoted to Major General. Witnesses said Ahsan personally executed victims and instructed others to learn the method, calling hesitant members 'cowards'. The victims appeared young, weak, and had signs of prolonged detention and torture.

According to the testimonies, bodies were disposed of to erase evidence—sometimes left on railway tracks to simulate accidents, or thrown into rivers from bridges or boats, often weighted with cement bags. The report states that these killings were treated within RAB as acts of 'duty' or 'skill'. Many participants reportedly suffered severe psychological trauma afterward. The International Crimes Tribunal has begun proceedings against dismissed Major General Ziaul Ahsan for crimes against humanity involving over a hundred enforced disappearances and killings.

The testimonies depict systematic and brutal methods of execution and disposal, suggesting an organized pattern of extrajudicial killings within the force.

The Trump administration has announced an indefinite suspension of immigrant visa processing for 75 countries, including Thailand, citing high rates of welfare claims by migrants. The decision has upended the plans of many Thais, such as 27-year-old Khaochat Mankong, who had been preparing to move to California with her American husband. The freeze affects EB-class employment visas and K-class spousal and dependent visas, leaving families and workers uncertain about their futures.

Thailand’s government has voiced disappointment at being grouped with poorer, conflict-affected nations like Afghanistan and Haiti. Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow met with US Charge D’Affairs Elizabeth J Konick to seek clarification, questioning the logic of the inclusion given Thailand’s long-standing alliance and economic contributions to the United States. The move comes amid already strained relations between Washington and Bangkok, worsened by US tariffs and stalled trade talks.

While some Thais support the policy as a measure to curb welfare misuse, others view it as unfair and damaging to bilateral ties. Analysts suggest the suspension reflects a broader effort by the Trump administration to sharply restrict legal immigration.

United States President Donald Trump has faced sharp criticism from British politicians after claiming that NATO forces stayed away from the front lines during the war in Afghanistan. In an interview with Fox News, Trump said the US had “never needed” NATO and suggested that allied forces were “a little off the front lines.” He also questioned whether NATO members would come to Washington’s aid if requested.

The comments triggered a backlash across the UK political spectrum, with critics citing the heavy losses suffered by NATO allies during the 20-year conflict. The United Kingdom lost 457 service personnel, while Canada, France, and Denmark also recorded significant casualties. Junior British minister Stephen Kinnock called Trump’s remarks “deeply disappointing,” emphasizing that European forces had paid a heavy price supporting US-led missions in Afghanistan and Iraq. He also reminded that NATO allies rallied behind the US after the September 11 attacks when Article 5 was invoked.

Other UK politicians, including Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey, criticized Trump’s comments by pointing to his history of avoiding military service during the Vietnam War, calling his questioning of NATO sacrifices unacceptable.

At least seven people have been confirmed dead and dozens remain missing after a landslide struck Pasirlangu village in West Bandung, Indonesia’s West Java province, early Saturday morning. The disaster occurred around 2am local time when water and loose soil from Mount Burangrang swept through the area, destroying about 30 homes while residents were asleep. Rescue teams from Indonesia’s armed forces, disaster management agencies, volunteers, and local communities are continuing search and rescue operations, according to officials.

Local authorities have ordered evacuations in landslide-prone areas to prevent further casualties. The affected zone covers roughly 30 hectares. The landslide was accompanied by flash flooding, and residents reported hearing a loud rumbling sound before the collapse. Indonesia’s weather agency had warned of extreme weather and heavy rainfall across West Java for a week starting Friday.

The incident follows a series of deadly floods and landslides last month that killed more than 1,170 people in North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and Aceh. The government has filed lawsuits against six companies for environmental degradation believed to have worsened such disasters, amid growing concerns over deforestation, climate change, and rising sea levels.

The curtain has fallen on the Bangladesh Premier League 2026, with Rajshahi Warriors defeating Chattogram Royals in the final to claim the championship. Despite the title win, no Rajshahi player topped the batting or bowling charts. Sylhet Titans’ Parvez Hossain Imon emerged as the tournament’s highest run-scorer with 395 runs in 12 matches, followed by Rangpur’s Towhid Hridoy with 382 runs. Rajshahi’s Tanzid Hasan Tamim ranked third with 356 runs, including a century in the final.

Among bowlers, Chattogram Royals’ Shariful Islam set a new record by taking 26 wickets in 12 matches, surpassing the previous mark of 25. Nasum Ahmed followed with 18 wickets, while Rajshahi’s Ripon Mondol claimed 17. Hasan Mahmud of Noakhali Express and Binura Fernando of Rajshahi each took 16 wickets. Rangpur’s Mustafizur Rahman also finished with 16 wickets, while Mehedi Hasan and Amir Jamal of Chattogram shared fifth place with 15 wickets each.

The season concluded with record-breaking bowling performances and consistent batting displays across multiple teams.

Dhaka’s neighborhoods and alleys were filled with campaign activities on Friday as candidates from various political parties and independents reached out to voters ahead of the upcoming election. Taking advantage of the weekend, contenders began their outreach from early morning, visiting tea stalls, street corners, and homes to exchange greetings and listen to voter concerns. The day saw processions and small rallies featuring symbols such as the paddy sheaf, scale, water lily, hand fan, football, and duck.

Candidates from the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, NCP, Islami Andolon Bangladesh, and other alliances conducted door-to-door campaigns across constituencies including Dhaka-4, Dhaka-8, Dhaka-13, Dhaka-16, and Dhaka-18. Jamaat-led ten-party alliance candidates also held meetings and courtyard gatherings, while Islami Andolon’s leader, the Charmonai Pir, joined a rally in support of his party’s candidate in Dhaka-5. Independent candidates were similarly active, meeting voters in several constituencies.

The day’s activities reflected a renewed vibrancy in Dhaka’s election atmosphere, with streets and communities abuzz with campaigners and supporters engaging directly with residents.

Chuadanga district is experiencing severe cold weather, with temperatures recorded at 10.5 degrees Celsius at 9 a.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2026. The humidity level stood at 94 percent, while at 6 a.m. the temperature was 10.7 degrees Celsius with 96 percent humidity. The cold intensified overnight, disrupting normal life across the district as people struggled to cope with the biting chill and cold northern winds.

Low-income residents were seen lighting straw fires at street corners and tea stalls to stay warm. The cold wave has caused significant hardship for day laborers and outdoor workers. Hospitals in the district have reported an increase in cold-related illnesses, with elderly people and children suffering from pneumonia and diarrhea.

According to the acting officer of the Chuadanga first-class observatory, the temperature and humidity levels confirm the persistence of severe winter conditions in the region.

Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, has become a focal point of global attention due to its vast mineral wealth and strategic Arctic location. Following renewed threats from U.S. President Donald Trump to seize the island, Denmark has deployed additional troops there. Despite Trump later withdrawing a tariff threat against eight European nations opposing his stance, tensions between the United States and Europe over Greenland remain high. U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are scheduled to meet Danish and Greenlandic officials, while China and Russia are closely monitoring the situation.

A 2023 survey found that 25 of the 34 critical raw materials listed by the European Commission exist in Greenland, including one of the world’s largest rare earth deposits in the southern Gardar province. These minerals are vital for green energy technologies and defense industries. However, environmental restrictions, bureaucratic hurdles, and opposition from indigenous communities have slowed development. Greenland’s mineral potential positions it as a key player in global supply chains for electric vehicles and renewable energy, but sustainable extraction and careful governance will be essential to avoid social and ecological conflict.

A Washington Post report published on January 22 revealed that the United States seeks a ‘friendship’ with Bangladesh’s Jamaat-e-Islami, a once-banned Islamist party. The report cited a U.S. diplomat expressing conditional support, suggesting economic pressure could be used if the party pursued hardline policies. The article argues that this approach reflects strategic calculation rather than unconditional partnership. It also notes that Jamaat, once suppressed, has re-emerged as a key political force following Sheikh Hasina’s fall, with U.S. diplomats predicting its strongest electoral performance in the February 12 election.

The report highlights concerns that U.S. engagement with Jamaat could strain India–U.S. relations and deepen regional tensions. India views Jamaat as a security concern, while Bangladesh faces a test of democratic credibility amid foreign interest. Interim leader Dr. Yunus has promised a fair election, but questions remain about equal opportunity among parties.

A separate Al Jazeera report described how Bangladesh’s election has shifted online, with TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube becoming central campaign arenas. Digital platforms now shape political narratives, especially among young voters, signaling a transformation in how democracy is contested.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has dismissed allegations that party chairman Tarique Rahman violated the electoral code of conduct, describing them as completely false and part of a hyper propaganda campaign. He made the remarks on Saturday, January 24, after visiting the grave of the late Arafat Rahman Koko in Banani, Dhaka, on his death anniversary.

The allegations were raised by the National Citizen Party (NCP), whose Election Steering Committee Chairman Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan claimed that Tarique Rahman used loudspeakers for campaign activities past the permitted time of 8 p.m., continuing until midnight. Bhuiyan also accused the administration and Election Commission of favoring a particular political party and warned that their credibility would be damaged if no action was taken.

Rizvi countered that Tarique Rahman had postponed his northern region tour at the Election Commission’s request and later conducted campaign activities in accordance with its regulations.

A severe cold wave has intensified in Sreemangal, Moulvibazar, where the minimum temperature dropped to 10 degrees Celsius on Saturday morning. The biting cold and dense fog have disrupted normal life in both urban and rural areas, affecting daily activities and mobility. The Sreemangal Weather Observation Center recorded the temperature between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m.

According to the center’s acting officer, Anisur Rahman, the cold conditions are expected to persist for the next few days. The ongoing chill has led to a rise in cold-related illnesses, with tea garden workers, children, and the elderly suffering the most. The situation has particularly affected laborers who depend on outdoor work for their livelihood.

Local residents are struggling to cope with the cold, and health concerns are mounting as the temperature remains low. Authorities have not yet indicated any immediate relief measures, while forecasts suggest the cold spell may continue.

U.S. President Donald Trump sharply criticized Canada for opposing the proposed 'Golden Dome' missile defense system in Greenland, warning that Beijing could 'devour' Canada within a year. In a post on his Truth Social platform on Friday, Trump said Canada was rejecting U.S. security in favor of closer business ties with China. He argued that the Golden Dome would protect Canada and accused Ottawa of benefiting from U.S. defense without gratitude.

Trump’s comments came amid rising tensions between Washington and Ottawa following Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s remarks at the World Economic Forum in Davos. Trump reiterated that Canada survives because of U.S. protection, while Carney rejected the claim, asserting that Canada’s success stems from its own people.

The dispute highlights growing friction between the two neighbors over defense cooperation and trade alignment, as Canada continues to balance its economic relationships with both the United States and China.