BNP leader Barkatullah Bulu has warned that if religious fundamentalists come to power in Bangladesh, the country could descend into a state similar to Afghanistan or Syria, leaving its future deeply uncertain. Speaking at an event in Begumganj Upazila and Chaumuhani Municipality, where financial aid and food were distributed to 26 Durga Puja pavilions, Bulu urged citizens to safeguard the spirit of secularism and honor the sacrifices of freedom fighters. “The upcoming national election is a crucial moment,” he said. “To protect our future and build a non-communal Bangladesh, people must cast their votes wisely.”

Jamaat-e-Islami chief Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has extended greetings to the Hindu community on the occasion of Durga Puja and called on authorities to ensure adequate security. He highlighted Bangladesh’s reputation as a global model for communal harmony, recalling international recognition, including praise from the Australian High Commissioner. “Durga Puja should further strengthen our bonds of tolerance and harmony,” he said, wishing peace and prosperity for all communities.

Amid escalating global tensions, Iran has unveiled plans for a new nuclear power plant in Hormozgan province. The “Iran Hormoz” facility, with a projected capacity of 5,000 megawatts, will soon enter its design and equipment phase, according to Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization. Officials say the project is a significant step toward fulfilling strategic objectives outlined in Iran’s nuclear industry roadmap, reinforcing the country’s long-term energy and technological ambitions.

Trade through Panchagarh’s Banglabandha land port has been suspended for nine consecutive days, including weekends, in observance of Durga Puja. The closure began Friday and will continue until October 4. However, cross-border travel for passport holders remains open. Port manager Abul Kalam Azad said Indian traders and transporters from Fulbari agreed to halt import-export operations during the period.

Yemen’s Houthi-controlled military responded decisively to Israeli airstrikes on Sana’a, killing at least 8 and injuring 142. Using hypersonic “Palestine-2” ballistic missiles, Yemeni forces targeted sensitive sites in the Israeli-occupied Jaffa region. The operation, launched in response to ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza, signals Yemen’s commitment to defending Gaza and its own territory. Authorities warned that civilian and military vessels in the Red and Arabian Seas must identify themselves, or risk becoming targets as Yemen continues its military campaigns.

U.S. President Donald Trump met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the White House to discuss four key issues: the Gaza conflict, the Ukraine war, Syria, and F-35 fighter jet sales. Trump indicated a potential “big announcement” on Syria and hinted at lifting sanctions on Turkey if it stops buying Russian oil. Both leaders agreed on supporting the Syrian central government, reflecting improved relations compared to past tensions. The talks also focused on hostages and bilateral defense cooperation.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan stated that the Israel-Palestine conflict is resolvable through dialogue if there is genuine political will. Speaking at the UN General Assembly, he expressed hope for the near-term implementation of a two-state solution. He emphasized that a sustainable Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, coupled with reconstruction in Gaza, is essential for lasting peace. Arab and Muslim nations have consistently highlighted the risks of West Bank occupation, and constructive negotiations remain key to regional stability.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flew an unusual route to New York for the UN General Assembly, bypassing common European airways. His official plane, Wings of Zion, traveled over the Mediterranean, Greece, and Italy, entering the Atlantic via Gibraltar, adding nearly 600 km to the journey. Analysts say this detour helps him avoid the ICC arrest warrant issued last year for alleged war crimes in Gaza. France permitted his airspace use, but Netanyahu opted for a different path. He will address the UN and meet U.S. President Trump next week.

Syria recently announced the dismantling of a cell linked to Lebanon’s Iran-backed Hezbollah, seizing rockets, missiles, and arresting five suspects. Hezbollah denied any presence in Syria, but analysts note Iran continues to use the group as part of its regional strategy. Recent Israeli strikes and internal pressures in Lebanon have weakened Hezbollah’s military capabilities, limiting its influence in Syria. While still part of Iran’s plans, the group struggles to project the same strength, signaling a new reality for regional dynamics.

The United States has announced a 100% tariff on all branded and patented pharmaceutical imports from October 1, 2025, unless companies establish production facilities in the country. President Trump stated this move aims to boost domestic manufacturing and reduce the budget deficit. India, whose pharmaceutical exports to the U.S. reached $8.7 billion in 2023–24, could face significant costs and negative impacts on its drug exports. Analysts warn the policy may severely strain India’s pharmaceutical industry.

Yemen’s air defense system has successfully intercepted multiple Israeli air raids over the capital, Sana’a, preventing significant damage and civilian casualties. Local sources report that Israel used 20 fighter jets and naval missiles, targeting power plants and residential areas. The Yemeni defense forces forced enemy aircraft to retreat before completing bombing missions. Hospitals confirm at least eight civilian deaths and 48 injuries, while eyewitnesses describe widespread panic and property damage. Israel admits Yemen’s resistance has proven difficult to overcome.

A strong earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale struck Pakistan on Friday morning, with its epicenter in Afghanistan's Hindu Kush mountains. Tremors were felt across Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Swat, Charsadda, Buner, Lower Dir, and Mardan, causing residents to rush outdoors in fear. Several aftershocks were reported in Khyber District’s Landikotal. Experts warned that the Hindu Kush region is earthquake-prone, and residents of mountainous areas expressed concern over potential further tremors. No immediate casualties have been reported.

BNP senior leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has strongly criticized the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) election process, calling it “neither fair nor legitimate.” He alleged widespread irregularities, including ballot papers being printed in Nilkhet, and accused the administration of ignoring complaints. Rizvi said the election was orchestrated to serve vested interests, warning that if such manipulation continues, the upcoming national polls will also be at risk. Selima Rahman added that although Sheikh Hasina was ousted, conspiracies are still ongoing.

Turkey and the United States signed a memorandum of understanding on September 25 to enhance cooperation in the nuclear fuel sector. The agreement, part of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s White House visit, aims to deepen the longstanding multifaceted relationship between the two nations. Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar emphasized that the strategic civilian nuclear cooperation will bring mutual benefits in the future. Top leaders from both countries attended the signing ceremony, highlighting the importance of this partnership.

US tech giant Microsoft has disabled certain cloud and AI services for an Israeli Ministry of Defense unit following claims of mass surveillance on Palestinians. The decision, based on internal reviews of records and communications, aims to prevent the use of Microsoft technology for monitoring civilians. Microsoft stressed it never accessed customer content, consulted IMOD before acting, and said the move won’t affect its cybersecurity work in Israel or regional cooperation under the Abraham Accords. Further details are expected soon.