Hezbollah’s deputy leader Naim Qassem has vowed to avenge the killing of the group’s top military commander, Haitham Ali Tabatabai, who died in an Israeli airstrike near Beirut on November 23. In a televised speech on November 27, Qassem described the attack as a 'clear act of aggression and a brutal crime,' asserting Hezbollah’s right to respond at a time of its choosing. He did not specify whether a new war with Israel was imminent but urged Lebanon to rely on its army and citizens for defense. Qassem also expressed hope that the upcoming visit of Pope Leo to Lebanon would help promote peace and curb Israeli aggression. He claimed Hezbollah has abided by the ceasefire agreement effective since November 2024, while accusing Israel of continued attacks. In response, Israeli military spokesman Avichay Adraee criticized Lebanon’s army for failing to curb Hezbollah’s weapons buildup in the south.

Rashed Khan, General Secretary of the Gana Adhikar Parishad, has expressed his wishes for the recovery and long life of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. In a Facebook post on Friday night, Khan prayed for her health, attributing her current physical condition to what he described as the 'inhumane and cruel behavior' of the previous 'fascist government.' He emphasized that Khaleda Zia remains essential for the future of Bangladesh, describing her as uncompromising in her fight for democracy, a model of political struggle, and a symbol of resistance against what he termed Indian dominance. Khan concluded by stating that Khaleda Zia’s longevity is crucial for the country’s democratic aspirations and national interests.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting chairman Tarique Rahman has urged people to continue praying for the recovery of former Prime Minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, who remains in critical condition under intensive care at a hospital. In a Facebook post on Saturday, Rahman expressed gratitude to citizens of all political affiliations for their ongoing prayers and to the medical teams in Bangladesh and abroad for their dedicated service. He also acknowledged the support and goodwill expressed by several friendly nations offering assistance for Khaleda Zia’s treatment. Rahman conveyed his family’s deep appreciation for the public’s concern and love, reiterating his personal longing to be with his mother during this difficult time. He noted that his return to Bangladesh depends on political realities but expressed hope that the situation would soon allow his long-awaited homecoming.

Iran’s Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Major General Seyyed Abdolrahim Mousavi, declared that the country’s navy is fully prepared to counter any form of aggression or threat. Speaking on the occasion of Iran’s Navy Day, Mousavi emphasized the strategic capabilities and self-reliance of the Iranian Navy, highlighting its reliance on indigenous strength and a spirit of resistance. He stated that the navy has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to deliver a strong and deterrent response to any hostile action. Mousavi also credited the sustained maritime security in the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and Iran’s territorial waters to close coordination between the navy and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) naval units. He described this cooperation as a strategic and intelligent model of deterrence that ensures regional stability and readiness against potential threats.

Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Sadiq Kayem has expressed his wishes for the speedy recovery of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, who is currently in critical condition under intensive care at a hospital. In a Facebook post on Saturday, Kayem prayed for her full recovery and long life, describing Khaleda Zia as a visionary leader whose guidance remains vital for protecting Bangladesh from hegemonic influences. His message comes as Khaleda Zia’s health continues to deteriorate, drawing concern and prayers from political leaders and supporters across the country. The BNP leader, who has long been a central figure in Bangladesh’s political landscape, has been receiving treatment for multiple health complications. Kayem’s statement reflects continued sympathy and respect for her leadership role, transcending political boundaries and emphasizing national unity and compassion during her illness.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s adviser Rana Sanaullah has claimed that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan intends to lead his political movement from prison. Speaking on Samaa TV’s program 'Mere Sawaal with Absar Alam', Sanaullah said Imran has consistently called for long marches and unrest, criticizing him for refusing dialogue both during and after his premiership. He added that prison authorities have confirmed Imran Khan’s health is stable. However, PTI sources allege that Khan is being subjected to harsh treatment and kept in near-total isolation at Adiala Jail, with limited or no contact with his family and lawyers. The controversy arises as the government focuses on privatizing Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to address the country’s economic crisis. The contrasting statements highlight the deepening political and human rights tensions surrounding Imran Khan’s imprisonment and Pakistan’s ongoing political instability.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said that his decision to return to Bangladesh is not entirely under his personal control, despite growing calls for his return as his mother, BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, remains critically ill in intensive care. In a Facebook post on Saturday morning, Rahman expressed gratitude to citizens and international well-wishers for their prayers and support for Khaleda Zia’s recovery. He mentioned that both local and foreign medical teams are providing dedicated care, and several friendly nations have offered assistance for advanced treatment. Rahman added that while he deeply wishes to be with his mother during this critical time, political realities limit his ability to make an independent decision about returning home. He expressed hope that once circumstances permit, his long wait to return to Bangladesh will finally end.

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced plans to extend the existing mobile phone ban from secondary schools to high schools starting next academic year. Speaking in Mirecourt, Vosges, Macron emphasized that schools should remain spaces for learning and communication, not digital distraction. Education Minister Édouard Geffray is currently reviewing the proposal. Macron also highlighted growing concerns about loneliness and mental health among young people, linking them to excessive phone use. Additionally, he addressed national security issues, warning against foreign interference and misinformation campaigns targeting France. Macron urged the nation to remain vigilant amid global instability and called for strengthening France’s military and technological capabilities. The move reflects the government’s broader effort to promote student well-being and safeguard national resilience.

Bangladesh will take on Ireland in the second T20 match of the three-match series on Saturday, aiming to level the series after losing the opener by 39 runs. The match, scheduled for 6 PM local time, will be played on a batting-friendly pitch, raising expectations for a high-scoring contest. While the Irish team opted for optional practice on Friday, the Bangladeshi players took a full rest day following their defeat. Reports suggest that Bangladesh may make at least two changes to their playing XI, possibly replacing one batter and one bowler. Ireland currently lead the series 1–0, and a win today would secure them the series, while Bangladesh must win to stay alive in the contest.

Three Chinese nationals were killed and two others seriously injured in a drone strike that originated from Afghanistan and hit Tajikistan’s southwestern Khatlon province on November 26. The Chinese embassy in Dushanbe confirmed the incident on November 28, stating that the victims were employees of the Chinese mining company LLC Shahin SM. Tajikistan’s foreign ministry said the drone, carrying grenades, specifically targeted the company’s site and confirmed it came from Afghan territory. China has urged Tajik authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and called on Afghanistan’s Taliban government to take appropriate measures. Kabul has yet to issue an official response. The attack adds to a series of recent assaults on Chinese nationals working abroad, particularly in Pakistan’s Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa regions, where militant groups have previously targeted Chinese projects.

At least 56 people have been killed and 21 remain missing after Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka, triggering severe flooding and landslides across the island. Heavy rainfall exceeding 300 millimeters in several regions has caused widespread destruction, particularly in the eastern and central districts. The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) reported that 21 people died in a landslide in the tea-producing district of Badulla. Over 44,000 people have been affected nationwide, with homes destroyed and many residents stranded. Schools, colleges, and universities have been closed, and several international flights have been canceled. Authorities have issued a red alert for low-lying areas along the Kelani River, including parts of the capital Colombo, urging residents to move to higher ground. Rescue operations are ongoing, though access to remote areas remains difficult due to continuous heavy rain and damaged infrastructure.

Argentina secured a dominant eight-wicket victory over Brazil in the first T20 of a five-match series held in Buenos Aires on Friday, November 28. Batting first, Brazil managed only 109 runs for eight wickets, with opener Luis Morais scoring an unbeaten 51 off 55 balls. Argentina’s bowlers, led by Lucas Rossi with 3 wickets for just 8 runs and Agustin Rivero with 2 for 18, restricted Brazil effectively. In reply, Argentina chased down the target in just 14.5 overs, thanks to captain Pedro Baron’s 53 off 42 balls. The win gave Argentina a 1–0 lead in the series and extended their unbeaten record against Brazil in T20s to three matches. Both teams began playing international T20 cricket in 2019, with Argentina now holding 17 wins in 29 matches, while Brazil has managed only 4 victories in 16 games. The second match is scheduled for Saturday evening local time.

In Narayanganj’s Siddhirganj area, hundreds of worshippers staged a protest and human chain on the Dhaka-Chattogram Highway on Friday, demanding punishment for businessman Shahidul Islam, accused of demolishing a mosque built on waqf land. The demonstrators alleged that Shahidul, along with associates Abdul Hannan and Suman, illegally tore down the mosque to construct a commercial building, claiming ownership of the land through forged documents. Religious leaders and local political figures, including Siddhirganj BNP’s general secretary Iqbal Hossain, vowed that no new structure would be allowed on the site except for rebuilding the mosque. The mosque, originally built in 1992 and officially registered as waqf property in 2002, was reportedly demolished without community consent. Shahidul Islam defended his actions, stating the mosque was being reconstructed due to waterlogging issues and that the new building’s lower floors would still serve as a mosque. The incident has sparked widespread anger among local residents and religious groups.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has provided an update on the health condition of its chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, who remains under treatment in the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) of Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. According to a statement posted on the party’s official Facebook page late Friday, a medical board comprising local and foreign specialists is continuously monitoring her condition. BNP urged everyone to refrain from spreading unverified information about her health and called on the public to pray for her recovery. Senior BNP leaders, including Mirza Abbas and Moin Khan, visited her at the hospital, noting that while she is conscious, her physical condition remains unstable. The party and her family have requested supporters not to crowd the hospital premises. Separately, Dr. Muhammad Yunus expressed concern over Khaleda Zia’s health in a statement to the media.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating health condition of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. In a Facebook post on Friday night, he said the party is closely monitoring her health updates and prayed for her speedy recovery. Khaleda Zia, who has long been suffering from multiple health complications, is currently under treatment at a hospital in Dhaka. Earlier, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and other senior leaders visited her at the hospital, accompanied by legal adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul. Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus also issued a statement expressing concern over her condition. Khaleda Zia, a key opposition figure in Bangladesh politics, has been in and out of hospital in recent months, prompting widespread political and public attention to her health situation.