Hamas has responded cautiously to U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed plan for Gaza, highlighting disagreements over the territory’s administrative structure and the group’s future role. Trump’s plan calls for Gaza to be managed by an internationally supervised technocratic committee, including global figures such as Tony Blair, and envisages gradual demilitarization. Hamas insists that Gaza should be run by an independent Palestinian technocratic committee formed on national consensus, with Arab and Islamic support. While the group expressed agreement on key aspects such as a ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli troops, exchange of prisoners, and humanitarian aid, it did not accept proposals involving international oversight or its own removal from governance. Hamas emphasized that Gaza’s administration must follow national consensus and international law. The group also refrained from commenting on international peacekeepers or the safe exit of its members, signaling ongoing friction despite partial alignment on humanitarian issues.

The U.S. State Department’s 2025 Trafficking in Persons report has placed Bangladesh in Tier 2, acknowledging the country’s substantial and sustainable progress in combating human trafficking. While Bangladesh does not yet fully meet the minimum standards, the report highlights significant government efforts, including enhanced victim protection, expanded frontline officer training, and formal adoption of a National Referral Mechanism. In 2025, authorities identified 1,462 trafficking victims, providing healthcare, legal aid, and shelter through government centers. Bangladesh has strengthened coordination among agencies like CID, PBI, and CTTC, and continues international cooperation with Interpol and neighboring countries. Initiatives also include pre-departure training for migrant workers, specialized courses for female domestic workers, and bilateral labor agreements with major destination countries. These reforms, awareness campaigns, and policy measures reflect the government’s growing commitment to uphold the rule of law, protect migrant workers, and ensure justice for trafficking victims.

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s adviser and former lawmaker Mushfiqur Rahman has alleged that India does not want Bangladesh’s development or political stability. Speaking to journalists after a roadside rally in Brahmanbaria’s Kasba upazila, he said that without political stability, economic stability is also impossible. The rally was organized by the local BNP to press for the implementation of the 31-point agenda announced by the party’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman. Mushfiqur Rahman emphasized that Bangladeshis believe in sovereignty and do not want external interference in the country’s affairs. He urged that Bangladeshis and Indians should maintain mutual respect and friendship, warning against actions that could foster anti-India sentiment. The event was presided over by Brahmanbaria district BNP vice-president Md Elias and attended by senior BNP leaders including Engineer Nazmul Huda Khandakar, Abul Monsur Mission, and Khandakar Billal Hossain. Following the rally, leaflets highlighting the BNP’s 31-point reform proposals were distributed among the public.

Pakistan has welcomed Hamas’s positive reaction to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s new 20-point Gaza peace plan, describing it as a “positive step.” Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized on X that an immediate ceasefire is essential to end Palestinian suffering, secure the release of hostages, and ensure unhindered humanitarian aid. He also demanded that Israel immediately stop its ongoing attacks. Dar clarified earlier that Trump’s plan differs from draft proposals submitted by Arab and Muslim nations during last month’s UN General Assembly. According to U.S. media outlet Axios, Israel and the United States made significant adjustments to the plan at the request of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The revised proposal connects the withdrawal of Israeli forces to Hamas’s disarmament and permits Israel to remain in a buffer zone until all “terrorist threats” are eliminated. Pakistan’s response reflects its broader call for peace, humanitarian relief, and the protection of Palestinian rights amid the Gaza conflict.

The National Consensus Commission held a meeting on October 4 at its office in the National Parliament complex to review the final stage of preparations for the “July National Charter 2025.” According to an official press release, the commission members discussed comprehensive arrangements and finalized the key discussion points for tomorrow’s (October 5) rescheduled meeting with political parties. The meeting revisited the expert opinions and recommendations received earlier regarding the possible implementation methods of the July Charter. It also reassessed the views collected from various political parties to ensure a broad-based consensus. Among those present were Commission Vice-Chair Professor Ali Riaz, members Dr. Badiul Alam Majumdar, Justice Md. Emdadul Haque, Dr. Iftekharuzzaman, and Dr. Md. Ayub Mia. Monir Haider, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser involved in the consensus-building process, also attended the meeting. The discussion aimed to ensure a well-prepared and inclusive final phase before the Charter’s national presentation.

Hamas has accepted U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed 20-point Gaza peace plan, agreeing to release all Israeli hostages, both alive and deceased. The move has been welcomed by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, whose spokesman Stephen Dujarric said the announcement was encouraging. Guterres urged all sides to seize this chance to end hostilities, reiterating his call for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, unconditional release of all detainees, and unrestricted humanitarian aid. He also praised Qatar and Egypt for their mediation. Following Hamas’s response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced Israel’s readiness to begin the first phase of Trump’s plan, which focuses on the hostages’ immediate release. The Israeli statement emphasized cooperation with the U.S. to ensure that any end to the war aligns with Israel’s policies while remaining consistent with Trump’s vision. The development marks a potential breakthrough in efforts to halt the Gaza conflict, though challenges to lasting peace remain.

Saudi Arabia has announced sweeping changes to the Umrah pilgrimage process, introducing ten new rules to ensure transparency and order. Pilgrims must now apply for a dedicated Umrah visa through the Nusuk platform and book approved hotels and transport during the visa process. Staying with relatives requires linking the host’s Saudi ID, while tourist visas can no longer be used for Umrah. Authorities will verify bookings at airports, and only authorized taxis, buses, or trains may be used. The Haramain train will not run after 9 PM, requiring advance transport arrangements for late arrivals. Some travelers from the UK, US, Canada, and Schengen nations may receive visas on arrival under specific conditions. Travel itineraries submitted with visas cannot be altered, and overstaying will incur heavy fines. Both pilgrims and agents face strict penalties for violations, with fines starting from 750 riyals. The new rules aim to streamline the Umrah journey and prevent misuse of the system.

The long-anticipated direct train service between Pabna and Dhaka is nearing reality, according to Railways Secretary Fahimul Islam during a visit to Pabna on October 3. He confirmed that the government is accelerating initiatives at the highest level to implement the project, which has long been a demand of residents. Authorities are exploring options for both short-term solutions and long-term infrastructure development, including the possibility of constructing a new rail bridge from Dhalarchar through Rajbari to connect with the Padma Rail Bridge. Alongside this, the relocation of the Kazirhat ferry terminal to Khaschar is being considered to reduce travel time and fuel costs. Senior officials from the Roads and Highways Division and the Ministry of Railways jointly emphasized that feasibility studies are underway to ensure the most efficient and sustainable route. The move aims to enhance regional connectivity, reduce passenger hardship, and contribute to economic growth across the region.

Home Ministry Senior Secretary Nasimul Gani stated that 40 percent of the country’s population belongs to Generation Z, and it was this group that led the July 36 uprising. Speaking at a meeting with government officials in Rajshahi, he emphasized that society does not collapse because of dishonest people but because of the silence of honest ones. Reflecting on the failures during recent movements, he noted that there was no lack of intelligence or talent, only of sincerity. Gani stressed that public servants must align their duties with the expectations of the new generation, ensuring fairness and justice not just within the judiciary but across all administrative levels. Quoting the Qur’an, he reminded officials that their service is a divine and civic responsibility, not merely a means to earn money.

As Bangladesh prepares for its 13th national election, major Islamic parties are rethinking political alliances, expressing sharp reservations about joining hands with Jamaat-e-Islami. Leaders from Hefazat-e-Islam, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, and Islami Andolon Bangladesh have voiced concerns that Jamaat’s ideology, rooted in Maududism, contradicts traditional Islamic teachings and could mislead their followers. Hefazat chief Mawlana Muhibullah Babunagari called Maududi’s ideas a “fitna,” warning that aligning with Jamaat could endanger Islamic faith. Other leaders argued that while cooperation with BNP poses no religious risk, Jamaat’s theological differences threaten Islamic unity. Despite recent joint movements and shared political demands, many Islamic parties remain unwilling to form a formal alliance with Jamaat. Analysts believe this division may reshape electoral equations, as ideological rifts overshadow pragmatic politics. Past efforts to unite Islamist groups have repeatedly failed due to doctrinal and leadership disputes, and the same challenges persist ahead of the upcoming polls.

In a major counterterrorism operation in the Zehri area of Khuzdar district, Balochistan, Pakistani security forces killed at least 14 members of the India-backed militant organization “Fitna al-Hindustan.” The operation, launched on intelligence inputs, also left around 20 militants injured. Local residents praised the move, saying it restored peace and stability in the region. Authorities confirmed that operations would continue until the group is fully eliminated. Earlier this week, a similar intelligence-based operation in Sherani district killed seven Indian-supported militants linked to “Fitna al-Kharej” and the banned Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Meanwhile, violence in Pakistan surged by 46% in the third quarter of 2025, with 901 people killed in 329 incidents. Research data shows that 57% of those killed were militants or criminals, while 219 civilians and 166 security personnel also lost their lives. The provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan accounted for 96% of all violent incidents nationwide.

Israel has deported 137 detainees from the Global Sumud Flotilla to Turkey, according to the Israeli Foreign Ministry. Earlier, Israeli forces intercepted the humanitarian flotilla in international waters, detaining 443 people from 46 countries, including rights activists, lawyers, doctors, journalists, and European Parliament members. Among them was Swedish activist Greta Thunberg. The flotilla, comprising over 40 civilian ships, was carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza in defiance of Israel’s blockade. Many nations condemned Israel’s actions, labeling them as acts of aggression and a violation of international law. The first group of vessels departed from Barcelona on August 31, later joined by ships from Tunisia, Italy, and Greece. The detained individuals included citizens of the U.S., U.K., Italy, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, Algeria, Mauritania, Malaysia, Bahrain, Morocco, Switzerland, Tunisia, and Turkey. The deportation marks escalating tensions surrounding humanitarian efforts to reach Gaza amid ongoing conflict and global outcry.

A tragic bus accident in Daganbhuiyan, Feni, claimed the lives of three people when a Sugandha Paribahan bus lost control and hit an electric pole before overturning onto a roadside shop. The incident occurred around 10:15 a.m. on Thursday at Lucky Road in the Silonya Bazar area along the Feni-Noakhali regional highway. The victims were identified as Shamima Ara (50) from Khushipur, Mohammad Shrabon (20) from South Jailskar, and Samira (15) from South Barahi Gobind. At least 20 others were injured and taken to Feni General Hospital, where doctors declared three dead. Police have attributed the crash to reckless speed and rainy conditions. Following the tragedy, Shamima Ara’s son, Nafsi Al Hasan, filed a case against driver Md. Farid of Sugandha Paribahan. Law enforcement confirmed that the bus has been seized and legal proceedings are underway.

Israel has launched a series of new airstrikes on Gaza, killing at least 20 people, despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s direct order to cease attacks following Hamas’s partial acceptance of a U.S.-brokered peace proposal. According to Gaza Civil Defense spokesperson Mahmoud Basal, last night was marked by intense bombings across Gaza City and other regions. Around 20 houses were destroyed in the strikes. The attacks came just as civilians had begun returning home after Trump’s call for restraint and Hamas’s conditional approval of the ceasefire plan. The Israeli military, however, claimed that ongoing operations in Gaza City made the area unsafe and urged residents to stay away. The renewed assault has raised fears among Gazans that hopes for peace and an end to the 30-month-long conflict may once again fade, undermining recent diplomatic efforts led by Washington.

Nepal is facing one of its worst crises in decades, driven by political instability, corruption, and deep-rooted party favoritism, according to political analyst Rajendra Bajgain. Speaking to The Himalayan Times, Bajgain warned that merely replacing the prime minister will not solve Nepal’s growing turmoil. He argued that the federal system, intended to promote accountability, has instead turned into a “factory of corruption,” plagued by bribery and political interference from local governments to national ministries. Bajgain cited major infrastructure failures, such as the Pokhara and Lumbini international airports, which became costly burdens due to poor planning and policy-level corruption. He cautioned that direct election of the prime minister could lead to dictatorship if structural reforms are ignored. To revive Nepal, Bajgain urged reducing local government units by 60%, introducing public-private partnerships for state enterprises, ensuring independent financial oversight, prosecuting corrupt officials, and adopting clear national development strategies like those of Singapore and Malaysia.