Professor Ali Riaz, former vice-chairman of the National Consensus Commission and a political science professor at Illinois State University, has returned to Bangladesh after a professional visit to the United States. He arrived in Dhaka on November 18 on a regular flight. During his stay in the US, Riaz delivered a lecture at the University of Texas on November 13, focusing on how Bangladesh’s original constitution and subsequent amendments have influenced national identity and political divisions. On the same day, he was appointed as the Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant with the rank of an adviser. The National Consensus Commission, where Riaz served as vice-chairman, completed its term on October 31 after holding dialogues with political parties and submitting recommendations to the government, which later issued an order to implement the July National Charter. Riaz’s return marks his assumption of new advisory responsibilities in Bangladesh’s evolving political landscape.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has warned that India could launch a cross-border attack, citing recent remarks by the Indian Army Chief. Speaking on Samaa TV’s program ‘Nadeem Malik Live’ on November 18, Asif said Pakistan cannot ignore India’s statements and must remain vigilant. He alleged that India plays a role in infiltration activities across the Afghan border and that Afghanistan has become a haven for terrorists. Asif noted that countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Iran, and China want to see an end to cross-border violence involving Pakistan. He further claimed that India does not want Pakistan and Afghanistan to resolve their issues peacefully and that Pakistan faces pressure from both eastern and western borders. On foreign policy, Asif clarified that Pakistan will not join the Abraham Accords and will maintain its stance on supporting a two-state solution in the Israel-Palestine conflict.

The Internal Resources Division of Bangladesh has demoted Sajid Khan, an Additional Tax Commissioner of the Rangpur tax region, for irregularly granting BRB Cable Industries Limited tax benefits totaling around Tk 180 crore. While serving in the Khulna tax region’s Circle-1 Companies division, Khan approved Tk 151 crore in tax credits and Tk 29 crore in refunds for the 2018–19 and 2019–20 fiscal years without proper authorization. A departmental investigation confirmed the irregularities, leading to disciplinary action under the Government Servants (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 2018. Following a personal hearing on November 13, the allegations were proven beyond doubt. As a result, Khan was demoted by one grade, with his salary fixed at Tk 45,330. The case highlights ongoing efforts by the Internal Resources Division to enforce accountability and transparency within the tax administration system.

Sharmin S Murshid, advisor to the Ministry of Social Welfare and the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, has called on Bangladesh’s youth to take a leading role in ending violence against women and children. Speaking as the chief guest at the final round of the ‘Inter-College Debate Festival 2025’ organized by Youth Forum of Bangladesh at the Bangladesh Shishu Academy, she emphasized the courage and energy of young people reminiscent of the 1971 Liberation War and the 2024 July movement. Murshid urged the youth to channel their spirit into building a just, democratic, and safe Bangladesh for all, especially women and children. She highlighted the importance of unity, equality, and compassion, noting that the new generation must not allow ideological differences to divide the nation. The event also featured legal and social leaders who echoed the call for youth engagement in social transformation and protection of vulnerable groups.

A massive fire has engulfed more than 170 buildings in a coastal city in southern Japan, according to the country’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency. The blaze began around 5:40 p.m. local time on Tuesday and continued burning through the night, leaving homes reduced to rubble. Authorities reported that one person remains missing, though no casualties have been confirmed so far. Approximately 175 residents from the city of Oita, located about 770 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, have taken shelter in emergency evacuation centers. Local media footage showed thick black smoke rising from the mountainous area as the fire spread to nearby forested slopes. Prime Minister Takaiichi stated on social media that a military firefighting helicopter was dispatched at the request of the Oita Prefecture governor. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and firefighting efforts are ongoing to bring the situation under control.

Bangladesh’s top order faltered early on the first day of the Dhaka Test against Ireland, losing three wickets before reaching 100 runs. Openers Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Shadman Islam gave the hosts a solid start with a 50-run partnership, but Shadman fell for 35 to Andy McBrine, who went on to claim all three wickets. Joy followed soon after for 34, and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto was dismissed for just 8. At lunch, Bangladesh were 100 for 3, with Mominul Haque batting on 17 and Mushfiqur Rahim, playing his 100th Test, on 3. Having won the toss, Bangladesh opted to bat first, aiming to build on their series lead after a convincing win in the previous Test. Ireland’s disciplined bowling, led by McBrine, kept the hosts in check during the morning session.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin has reaffirmed the Election Commission’s commitment to holding a free, fair, and peaceful national election in Bangladesh. Speaking at a dialogue with political parties at the Election Commission building on Wednesday, he urged all parties to strictly follow the electoral code of conduct and cooperate to ensure a credible election. Nasir Uddin emphasized that adherence to the code is essential for upholding the rule of law and maintaining public trust in the electoral process. He also noted that political parties play a more decisive role than law enforcement agencies in ensuring a successful election. The CEC called on parties to encourage voter turnout through their grassroots workers, stressing that genuine political cooperation would reduce pressure on the Election Commission and help deliver a transparent and participatory vote.

Advocate Al-Fattah Khan, a member of Mymensingh South District BNP and a nomination aspirant for the Gafargaon constituency, stated that if the 31-point reform plan announced by BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman is implemented, no fascist regime will emerge in Bangladesh. Speaking as the chief guest at a public rally in Jamtali, Gafargaon, on Tuesday, he emphasized that the proposed structural reforms aim to ensure democracy and accountability in governance. During his speech, Khan also made controversial remarks, claiming that an international tribunal had sentenced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and demanded the execution of that verdict. The event, organized by local BNP and affiliated organizations, was attended by several party leaders, including Amir Uddin Palowan, Abdur Rouf, Dr. Yusuf, and others, who expressed support for the 31-point agenda and called for fair elections and political reform in the country.

As winter returns to South Asia, markets fill with fresh water chestnuts, a seasonal fruit celebrated for its crisp texture and remarkable nutritional value. Rich in potassium, manganese, copper, vitamin B6, and antioxidants, water chestnuts support heart health, brain function, and immunity—especially vital during the cold season. The fruit’s complex carbohydrates provide sustained energy without spiking blood sugar, making it ideal for students, athletes, and professionals. High fiber content aids digestion and prevents constipation, while its hydrating nature helps maintain electrolyte balance. Low in calories and high in fiber, it also supports weight management. Antioxidants and vitamin E contribute to healthier skin and hair, and its low glycemic index makes it safe for diabetics when consumed in moderation. Whether eaten raw, boiled, or as flour, water chestnuts remain a versatile, gluten-free, and nutrient-dense food choice for winter wellness.

Bangladesh’s Election Commission (EC) has begun discussions with seven political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Citizen Party (NCP), as part of its ongoing dialogue process ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election. The meeting started at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the EC headquarters in Agargaon, Dhaka. Parties participating in the morning session include Jamaat-e-Islami, Bangladesh Minority Janata Party (BMJP), Insaniyat Biplob, NCP, Ganosamhati Andolon, and National Democratic Movement (NDM). Another session is scheduled from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., where the EC will meet with BNP, Bangladesh National Party (BJP), Gano Adhikar Parishad (GOP), Nagorik Oikya, Bangladesh Republican Party (BRP), and the Socialist Party of Bangladesh (Marxist). The EC’s Assistant Director of Public Relations, Md. Asadul Haque, confirmed the meeting earlier this week. The dialogues are part of the commission’s effort to ensure inclusive participation and transparency in the electoral process.

Testimony is scheduled today against former Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Habibur Rahman and seven others in a case over the killing of six people during the July-August 1975 uprising in Dhaka’s Chankharpul area. The chief investigating officer, Md Monirul Islam, is set to testify before International Crimes Tribunal-1, marking the final witness session in the case, where 26 witnesses have already testified. Separately, the International Crimes Tribunal-2 will continue hearing testimony for the 18th day in another crimes against humanity case involving the burning of six bodies and the killing of seven people in Ashulia, with former MP Saiful Islam and 15 others accused. The prosecution stated that SI Sheikh Abzalul Haque, who turned state witness, will testify soon. Of the 16 accused in the Ashulia case, eight are currently in custody and were presented before the tribunal this morning.

Hundreds of buyers across Bangladesh have reportedly fallen victim to online fraud schemes involving fake advertisements for Katimon mangoes from Chapainawabganj. Despite the mango season being over, several social media pages have been offering 'juicy and delicious' mangoes year-round, luring customers to pay in advance. One such page, 'BD Official Mango House,' allegedly deceived a buyer from Charghat, Rajshahi, who lost 11,000 taka after being tricked by scammers posing as couriers. Investigations revealed that the page had no physical office in Chapainawabganj as claimed and that the perpetrators were operating from Narail. Victims and local residents have demanded swift action against these fraudulent online businesses. Police have urged consumers to verify sellers before placing online orders and warned against making advance payments until goods are received.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had no knowledge of the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Speaking at the White House while welcoming the crown prince, Trump dismissed suggestions of his involvement, calling Khashoggi a 'controversial figure' and saying there was no need to embarrass their guest. His remarks contradict a 2021 U.S. intelligence report released under President Joe Biden’s administration, which concluded that the crown prince approved a plan to capture or kill Khashoggi inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. The crown prince has consistently denied the allegations, describing the killing as 'painful' and asserting that Saudi Arabia conducted a proper investigation. This visit marks his first trip to the United States since the murder, which had strained U.S.-Saudi relations and led to sanctions against several Saudi officials, though not against the crown prince himself.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has stated that Riyadh is open to normalizing relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords, but only if a clear plan for establishing a Palestinian state is in place. Speaking during a meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump at the Oval Office, the Crown Prince emphasized the need for a two-state solution roadmap before Saudi Arabia can join the accords. He reiterated Saudi Arabia’s longstanding position that peace in the region requires recognition of Palestinian statehood. The Crown Prince added that Riyadh seeks peace for both Israelis and Palestinians and aims to create conditions for their peaceful coexistence. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to oppose the two-state solution and leads a coalition that favors annexing parts of the occupied West Bank. The Saudi stance underscores the kingdom’s insistence on linking normalization with progress toward Palestinian sovereignty.

The UN Security Council has approved a U.S.-proposed resolution to deploy an International Stabilization Force (ISF) in Gaza, aimed at restoring peace in the conflict-torn region. The proposal, introduced by President Donald Trump, passed with 13 votes in favor, while Russia and China abstained. Russia’s UN envoy, Vasily Nebenzya, criticized the plan as reflecting a ‘colonial-era mentality’ and warned that it could become a pretext for U.S. intervention under the guise of peacekeeping. He expressed concern over the lack of transparency and the exclusion of Palestinian voices in the decision-making process. The ISF, potentially including forces from the U.S., Turkey, Qatar, and Egypt, is expected to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction and security. Moscow cautioned that the force might act autonomously, disregarding the Palestinian Authority’s position. Meanwhile, Hamas rejected the plan as an imposed ‘international guardianship system,’ vowing not to disarm. Human rights groups also warned that the proposal undermines Palestinian rights and accountability for war crimes.