Recently leaked White House and U.S. CENTCOM documents have exposed a covert regional security framework linking Israel with six Arab countries — Qatar, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Despite publicly condemning the Gaza war, these nations have quietly strengthened military coordination with Israel over the past three years, focusing on intelligence sharing, missile defense, and counter-tunnel operations in Gaza. The Washington Post reports that these meetings, held in locations such as Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base and the U.S. Fort Campbell base, were part of a broader U.S.-backed initiative to counter Iran’s influence and resistance groups. Kuwait and Oman were informed as potential future partners. Saudi Arabia reportedly played a key role in sharing sensitive military intelligence. The framework remains confidential and officially denies forming any “new alliance.”

U.S. President Donald Trump has softened his tone toward China, stating that the United States “wants to help China, not harm it.” His remarks came days after threatening to impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese imports in response to Beijing’s new restrictions on rare mineral exports. The earlier threats and hints of canceling a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping triggered panic on Wall Street, causing a sharp market downturn. Trump’s conciliatory comments, shared on Truth Social, suggested an effort to ease tensions, though analysts believe the underlying issues between the two powers remain unresolved. Beijing criticized Washington’s trade policies, accusing the U.S. of double standards and unfair sanctions. Both sides continue to impose tariffs—30% by the U.S. and 10% by China—while the rare-earth mineral dispute remains a major point of contention.

The interim government of Bangladesh is redirecting its transport strategy from a road-dominated system to a rail-based multi-modal network to ease congestion and improve nationwide connectivity. Sheikh Moin Uddin, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser on Transport Affairs, announced that major highways like Dhaka–Chattogram and Dhaka–Cox’s Bazar have reached saturation, prompting a shift toward rail and waterways. Speaking at a meeting organized by Reporters for Rail and Road (RRR), he said the government aims to create seamless integration between trains, buses, and waterways at key district hubs. Despite current shortages of locomotives and coaches, targeted operations will begin soon, guided by a national master plan. The final plan is expected within six to eight months, encompassing short-, medium-, and long-term goals. The initiative seeks to decentralize traffic from Dhaka, enhance transport safety, and build a cost-effective, sustainable network across the country.

The International Crimes Tribunal has begun hearing arguments in a case accusing former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two others of crimes against humanity during the July 2024 mass uprising. Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tazul Islam, in his argument, alleged that thousands of patriots were killed under Hasina’s direct orders. He described the former Awami League government as a fascist regime responsible for widespread abductions, extrajudicial killings, and the destruction of democratic institutions. Tazul Islam also referenced the Pilkhana massacre, the enforced disappearances by RAB, and politically motivated control of the judiciary as part of a pattern of oppression. During the live broadcast of the hearing, the Chief Prosecutor’s Office’s Facebook page suffered a cyberattack but was later recovered. The tribunal, led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mojumdar, noted that even judges should face accountability in such historic trials.

A violent clash erupted at midnight between students of Dhaka University (DU) and Dhaka College in the Nilkhet and New Market areas of the capital. The altercation reportedly began over setting up roadside shops near DU’s Shahnewaz Hall, escalating into stone-pelting and a fierce chase between both groups. The chaotic scene left several people, including a journalist, injured. DU Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Sadik Kayem and other student leaders rushed to the spot to restore order. Meanwhile, a large police force was deployed to control the situation, which turned the area into a temporary battleground. According to Mohammad Jahangir, Assistant Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) New Market Zone, police successfully dispersed both groups and the situation is now under control. Authorities are investigating the incident and have assured that legal action will be taken if necessary.

Pakistan closed all major border points with Afghanistan on Sunday following a night-long gunfight with Afghan forces, heightening tensions between the neighboring countries. Pakistani officials reported that Afghan forces opened fire late Saturday night, claiming it was retaliation for a recent Pakistani airstrike targeting Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) leaders in Kabul. Afghanistan stated that 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed, while 20 of its troops were reported killed or injured. Pakistan claimed over 200 Taliban fighters were killed in its counterattack. Both countries accused each other of destroying border posts, with videos released showing shelling at Afghan positions. Sporadic clashes continued in Kurram even after most fighting ceased. Kabul said it halted attacks following requests from Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid confirmed some fighting remains but emphasized no Afghan territory is under threat. The border closures add further strain to regional security and economic pressures in South Asia.

The Bangladeshi government has introduced a comprehensive cyber governance framework through three new ordinances in 2025—the Personal Data Protection Ordinance, National Data Management Ordinance, and Cybersecurity (Amendment) Ordinance. Foyez Ahmed Tayyab, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser overseeing the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, stated that these measures aim to enhance digital security, protect citizens’ personal information, and prevent cybercrime. The new framework ensures platform accountability, government supervision of data storage, and clear ownership rights, keeping citizens’ data under their control while restricting commercial exploitation. Tayyab emphasized that the laws are not only administrative but also technically and knowledge-based, building a modern cyber ecosystem in Bangladesh. The ordinances mark a significant step forward in national digital governance, aligning the country with global standards while addressing long-standing gaps in policy and practice. Journalists are encouraged to verify facts before reporting.

The Taliban has claimed responsibility for killing 58 Pakistani soldiers and seizing 25 border posts during clashes on Saturday night along the Afghanistan-Pakistan frontier. Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Taliban government in Kabul, stated that Afghan forces pushed Pakistani troops out of these posts, injuring at least 30 others. He warned Pakistan against future violations of Afghan sovereignty. Earlier, Pakistan had accused Afghan forces of violating its airspace and carrying out a market bombing, labeling its own operation as retaliatory. Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the Afghan attacks as unprovoked, highlighting civilian casualties, and promised strict retaliation. Reports indicate that both sides used small arms and mortars in the Kunar-Kurram region. Several areas including Angoor Adda, Bajaur, Kurram, Dir, Chitral, and Baramcha witnessed heavy gunfire and shelling. The situation has raised concerns over escalating tensions along the volatile border.

The International Crimes Tribunal in Bangladesh has jurisdiction to try 15 military officers against whom arrest warrants have been issued in three cases, including two enforced disappearance cases, Chief Prosecutor Advocate Tajul Islam said on Sunday. He emphasized that the law requires presenting arrested individuals in court within 24 hours, after which the court will decide on further proceedings. Arrest warrants have been communicated to all relevant departments, including the army, and the tribunal is the proper venue for trying military officers involved in disappearances and killings. On Saturday, Major General Md. Hakimuzzaman briefed that 15 officers listed in the tribunal’s charge sheet have been taken into custody. A total of 25 officers, including former and current personnel, were accused, with 15 ordered to report to army headquarters by October 9; all except Major General Kabir Ahmed complied.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has vowed that the country will take a firm stand on its defence and security after clashes along the Afghanistan border. He praised the Pakistan Army for successfully targeting terrorist hideouts near the border, honoring 23 soldiers who were martyred during the operation. Shahbaz emphasized that Pakistan has repeatedly informed Afghanistan about terrorist groups “Fitna al-Khawariz” and “Fitna al-Hindustan,” which reportedly receive support from some Afghan territories. He urged the Afghan Taliban government to prevent its soil from being used against Pakistan. The Pakistan Army confirmed that unprovoked attacks occurred on October 11 and 12, and in retaliation, over 200 terrorists were eliminated, while 23 soldiers were killed and 29 injured. The army reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the nation and continuing defensive measures along the border.

Chittagong Port’s New Mooring Container Terminal (NCT), Laldiar Char, and Dhaka’s Pangaon terminal are set to be handed over to foreign operators by December, according to Mohammad Yusuf, Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Shipping. The move aims to enhance port capacity, improve efficiency, and attract foreign investment. Yusuf noted that while strategic and geographical concerns exist, similar operations have succeeded in ports across India, Sri Lanka, and other countries. The decision comes despite some opposition from local business communities. Yusuf emphasized that foreign operators will help streamline operations, reduce delays, and lower damages caused by congestion. Experts also highlighted the potential for the country’s shipbuilding industry to expand, leveraging global trade opportunities, and transforming it into a billion-dollar sector, supported by efficient delivery systems and tailored banking solutions.

Israel has announced plans to demolish the remaining underground tunnels in Gaza operated by Hamas immediately after the scheduled release of hostages, a move approved by the United States. The tunnels, which extend under the border into Israeli territory, have been used by Hamas to launch surprise attacks. Defense Minister Israel Katz said the military has been instructed to prepare for the operation, which will follow the current U.S.-supported ceasefire in Gaza. The ceasefire, initiated three days ago, has already paved the way for the release of 48 Israeli hostages and the reciprocal freeing of 250 prisoners and 1,700 Palestinians detained by Israel. Hamas has agreed to the first phase of the U.S. plan but has not yet committed to full disarmament, citing complications in the second phase.

Chittagong University (CU) has announced the tentative dates for its first-year undergraduate (honors) admission tests for the 2025–2026 academic year. The decision was made during the first meeting of the Admission Process Management Committee, chaired by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Muhammad Yahia Akhter on October 12. Online applications will open on December 1 and continue until December 15. Tests for units ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘C’, and ‘D’ will be held at CU, Dhaka University, and Rajshahi University centers, while sub-units B1, B2, and D1 exams will be conducted exclusively at CU. Tentative exam dates include January 2 for ‘A’ unit, January 3 for ‘B’ unit, January 9 for ‘C’ unit, and January 10 for ‘D’ unit. Detailed information will be available on the university website.

Following the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, Turkey’s Ministry of Defense has stated that the Turkish Armed Forces are ready to participate in peacekeeping operations in Gaza if required. The ministry highlighted the TAF’s extensive experience in international missions, emphasizing fairness, professionalism, and trust earned in previous operations. Ministry spokesperson Zeki AkTürk praised the ceasefire as an opportunity to end two years of devastating conflict and urged rapid delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Turkey also reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable peace and facilitating a “two-state solution.” On Syria, Ankara described recent elections as a positive step for unity and stability but criticized the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) for violating agreements with the government. Turkey stressed close monitoring of ongoing talks and reiterated support for a “one state, one army” principle in Syria.

Pakistan’s defense forces have reportedly killed more than 200 Taliban and allied terrorists in a large-scale retaliatory operation following unprovoked attacks on Pakistani border posts by Afghan forces late Saturday night. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) of the Pakistan Army stated that precision strikes, raids, and targeted assaults were carried out on Taliban camps, posts, training centres, and support networks operating from Afghan territory. Multiple Taliban positions along the border were destroyed, and twenty-one Afghan positions were temporarily seized. Afghan authorities claimed 58 Pakistani soldiers were killed, while Pakistan has not released official casualty figures but said significant damage was inflicted on Afghan forces. Sporadic firing continues in areas such as Kurram. Pakistan has warned that it will not tolerate the use of Afghan territory for terrorism and reserves the right to target cross-border terrorist positions to ensure national security. Regional powers have called for dialogue and de-escalation.