Senior officials in the administration of US President Donald Trump have criticized Canada’s decision to permit imports of up to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) under a new trade deal with Beijing. Speaking at a Ford factory event in Ohio, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said Canada would regret the move, while Trade Representative Jamieson Greer confirmed that the vehicles would not be allowed into the United States. The Canadian Embassy in Washington did not immediately comment.

The decision follows Canada’s earlier 2024 imposition of 100 percent tariffs on Chinese EVs, mirroring US duties. However, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s new agreement reduces tariffs to 6.1 percent on most-favoured-nation terms. The deal also includes China lowering tariffs on Canadian canola seed to about 15 percent by March 1. US officials expressed concern that the policy could give China a stronger foothold in North America despite Washington’s tougher stance on Canadian vehicles and parts.

Greer noted that new US cybersecurity rules for internet-connected vehicles, effective January 2025, would make it difficult for Chinese cars to enter the American market. Lawmakers from both parties, including Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno, voiced strong opposition to Chinese vehicles being sold in the US.

Canada and China have reached an initial trade agreement to reduce tariffs on electric vehicles and canola, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced during his visit to Beijing on Friday. The deal marks the first visit by a Canadian prime minister to China since 2017 and aims to rebuild ties after years of strained relations. Canada will allow up to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles at a 6.1 percent tariff, compared with the 100 percent rate imposed by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in 2024. China, in turn, will lower tariffs on Canadian canola seed to about 15 percent by March 1, down from 84 percent, and remove anti-discrimination tariffs on other Canadian agricultural and seafood products.

Carney said the agreement would unlock nearly $3 billion in export orders for Canadian farmers and fishers and attract Chinese investment into Canada’s auto and clean energy sectors. Ontario Premier Doug Ford criticized the move, warning it could flood the market with cheap Chinese EVs without guaranteed domestic benefits. Both nations also pledged to restart high-level economic dialogue and strengthen cooperation in agriculture, energy, and green technology.

Analysts noted the deal could reshape the context of Sino-US rivalry, though Ottawa is not expected to shift away from its strategic alignment with Washington.

The Gambia’s case accusing Myanmar of committing genocide against its Rohingya Muslim minority opened this week at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Attorney General Dawda A Jallow told judges that the Rohingya were “targeted for destruction” by Myanmar’s military, nearly a decade after an offensive forced about 750,000 people to flee to Bangladesh. The hearing marks the first time the ICJ is considering a genocide case brought by one country on behalf of another group. Rohingya refugees attended the opening session and are expected to testify in closed hearings, though no date has been set for a final ruling.

The Gambia filed the case in 2019 under the 1948 Genocide Convention, acting on behalf of the Organisation for Islamic Cooperation. The initiative was led by then–Attorney General Abubacarr Tambadou and has since gained support from seven countries, including Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom. The case follows UN findings that Myanmar’s 2016–2017 military campaign showed “genocidal intent,” killing thousands and displacing hundreds of thousands. Myanmar denies the allegations, claiming it targeted armed groups. The ICJ’s decision could influence other genocide cases pending before the court.

The Gambia’s pursuit of justice is partly rooted in its own experience confronting past human rights abuses under former dictator Yahya Jammeh, according to former officials. The government’s engagement reflects a broader commitment to universal human rights and accountability.

A federal judge in Minnesota has ordered U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents deployed in the state to limit certain tactics used against protesters and observers. The injunction, issued by U.S. District Judge Kate Menendez, prohibits federal agents from arresting or detaining peaceful demonstrators or observers without reasonable suspicion of a crime or interference with law enforcement. It also bans the use of pepper spray, tear gas, or other crowd-control weapons against peaceful participants. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been given 72 hours to bring its Minneapolis operations into compliance.

The ruling follows heightened tensions after an ICE agent fatally shot Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, during a neighborhood patrol organized by activists monitoring ICE activities. The decision marks a legal victory for local activists in Minneapolis, two weeks after the Trump administration deployed 2,000 immigration agents to the area, a number that has since grown to nearly 3,000. DHS has described the operation as the largest of its kind in U.S. history.

As protests continue, President Trump has threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy the military to manage unrest, though he stated there was no immediate need to do so.

President Donald Trump announced that several European allies will face a series of escalating tariffs for opposing United States control of Greenland, intensifying his campaign to acquire the Danish territory. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said 10 percent tariffs would begin on February 1 for Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, rising to 25 percent on June 1 and remaining until an agreement is reached for the US to buy Greenland. He accused these nations of playing a “very dangerous game” through visits to Greenland and linked the acquisition to the planned US missile defense shield, the Golden Dome.

The announcement came as thousands protested across Denmark and Greenland against Trump’s repeated threats to take control of the Arctic island. Demonstrations in Copenhagen and Nuuk drew large crowds calling for self-governance and rejecting US ownership. Al Jazeera correspondents described the move as unprecedented and a serious escalation against close US allies.

A bipartisan US congressional delegation in Copenhagen sought to reassure Denmark and Greenland of continued American support, but the tariff threat has raised concerns of deepening rifts within NATO and heightened tensions over Arctic security.

Bangladesh Meteorological Department has reported an unusual rise in daytime temperatures across the country, with readings two to three degrees Celsius higher than normal for January. The department noted that while daytime temperatures are increasing, nighttime temperatures remain nearly unchanged. Only Tetulia in Panchagarh recorded a temperature below 10°C, marking the end of the recent cold wave. The current weather pattern, described as the most abnormal in 30 years, may continue until January 25–26, with a brief dip around January 22–23 before rising again.

Meteorologist Dr. Omar Faruk explained that a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal last week absorbed moisture from surrounding areas, leading to the sudden temperature increase in Bangladesh and neighboring countries. Another expert, Kazi Zebunnesa, said that the disappearance of dense fog and increased sunlight have contributed to the warming trend. The capital, Dhaka, has already experienced a noticeable decline in cold intensity.

According to the weather office, this pattern suggests that winter may end earlier than usual, possibly within January itself, as the country transitions toward warmer conditions.

BNP-nominated candidate for Dhaka-6, Engineer Ishraq Hossain, stated that his political philosophy centers on ensuring equal rights for all citizens regardless of religion. Speaking at an event in the capital on January 17, he recalled growing up in Gopibagh Second Lane, where people of all faiths lived together harmoniously. He emphasized that he was never taught to view any religion as superior or inferior and that equality among citizens is a core value he upholds.

Hossain clarified that he previously held no government or organizational post, so law enforcement or court order implementation was not his responsibility. However, he vowed that if entrusted with authority, he would act firmly against illegal structures, extortion, and any irregularities. He warned that no individual or group using the name of BNP or any other party for unlawful activities would be tolerated.

Assuring overall safety in his constituency, Hossain pledged that all citizens, including women, children, and the elderly, would be able to move freely and safely at all times. He expressed hope for a fair and transparent election and reaffirmed his lifelong commitment to serving local residents.

A video showing a young man urinating on a graffiti of Shahid Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inkilab Moncho, in Chatmohar, Pabna, has gone viral and triggered widespread anger. The footage, shared on a reel titled 'Matrivumi-71', shows a man in white pants and a maroon jacket committing the act while another records it. The video was accompanied by a song and quickly spread across social media, drawing condemnation from local residents.

CCTV footage from the area shows that around 1 a.m. on January 1, five young men were present near the boundary wall at the entrance of Chatmohar upazila. One left, while four remained; one urinated on the graffiti, another filmed, and two stood nearby. After the act, they left the scene. The incident has caused severe dissatisfaction among the public.

Member Md Hasanuzzaman Sabuj of the group '36 July Amlan' stated that discussions have been held regarding the incident and further action will be taken. Locals have demanded swift legal measures against those involved.

Two activists of the July Movement, identified as Hasnat Abdullah and Moin Uddin Mahin, were injured in an attack on Friday night near the Badurpara petrol pump on the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar highway. The incident occurred after they had filed a complaint at Chandanaish Police Station against BNP candidate Jasim Uddin Ahmed, known locally as the 'cashier of Benazir'. Both victims are currently receiving treatment at Chittagong Medical College Hospital.

According to local organizers, the victims were returning home by CNG taxi when 10–12 assailants intercepted them and attacked with sticks and knives. Earlier that day, the activists had held a press conference demanding the cancellation of Jasim Uddin’s nomination, alleging concealment of information and past involvement in violence. Jasim Uddin denied any involvement in the attack, claiming that a smear campaign was being run against him by the NCP and Jamaat-e-Islami.

Police confirmed that an investigation is underway, though no formal complaint has yet been received. The local election officer also stated that Jasim Uddin faces a separate allegation of violating the electoral code by campaigning in a mosque.

Islami Andolan Bangladesh has blamed Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami for the failure to implement the 'One Box Policy', accusing it of political ambition and monopolistic behavior. The announcement came during a press conference held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Comilla Press Club, organized by the party’s district election management committee. The party also declared its decision to contest in 11 parliamentary constituencies in Comilla.

In a written statement, Islami Andolan leaders said the 'One Box Policy' was designed to unite Islamist forces for the welfare of Islam, the nation, and humanity, but the initiative faltered due to Jamaat’s unilateral conditions and dominance in seat-sharing discussions. They alleged that Jamaat prioritized its own interests, sidelined other Islamist groups, and engaged in secret deals with other parties, including BNP and NCP, while spreading propaganda against Islami Andolan.

The party reiterated its commitment to unity based on mutual respect and procedural fairness, rejecting any attempt to monopolize Islamic politics. It emphasized that its political activities would continue for the welfare of Islam, the country, and humanity.

Four supporters of independent candidate Kamruzzaman Bhuiyan were injured in an attack allegedly carried out by supporters of BNP candidate Dr. K.M. Babor in Gopalganj-2 constituency. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon in Ulpur of Gopalganj Sadar upazila during leaflet distribution. Police said Kamruzzaman’s team of ten workers, including Minarul Shikder, arrived in Rautkhamar village to distribute campaign leaflets when they were confronted by 10–15 BNP supporters led by Antar Molla.

According to police inspector Molla Afzal Hossain of Boultoli outpost, the BNP supporters obstructed the independent candidate’s campaign and assaulted his workers following a verbal altercation. The injured supporters took shelter in a local shop at Ulpur Bazar but were attacked again. Police later reached the scene and brought the situation under control.

Gopalganj District Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner Md. Arif-uz-Zaman said the incident constitutes a violation of the electoral code of conduct and that further action will be taken after investigation.

Jhenaidah district BNP has declared Jamaat-e-Islami candidate Mufti Amir Hamza unwelcome in the district. The announcement was made by district BNP organizing secretary Sajedur Rahman Pappu through a social media post on January 17, 2026. Pappu stated that Hamza would remain unwelcome in Jhenaidah until he withdraws his controversial remarks about the late Arafat Rahman Koko. The post quickly went viral, drawing supportive comments from BNP leaders and activists.

Pappu explained that Arafat Rahman Koko was the son of late President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, and that making distorted or indecent comments about a deceased person was against Islamic values. He added that Hamza would not be allowed to enter Jhenaidah until he retracts his statement. Amir Hamza, who frequently speaks at religious gatherings across six upazilas of Jhenaidah, responded by saying the speech in question was from 2023 and expressed regret in a Facebook video message.

The dispute has drawn attention in local political circles, particularly as Hamza is contesting from Kushtia-3 constituency under Jamaat-e-Islami.

Police in Taraganj, Rangpur, have arrested AB Party leader Yunus Ali, 35, in connection with the widely discussed Rupolal and Pradip murder case. The arrest took place on Saturday, January 17, 2026, around 6 p.m. during a special operation at Burirhat Bazar in the Sayer Union area. Yunus Ali, son of Khairat Hossain from Damodarpur Mamunpara village, serves as the member secretary of the AB Party’s Taraganj upazila unit.

According to Taraganj Police Station’s investigation officer Khondaker Abdullah Al Mahmud, the case stems from an incident on August 9, 2025, when Rupolal Das, 40, and his nephew-in-law Pradip Lal, 35, both from the Dalit community, were beaten to death by a mob in Burirhat Bottola area on suspicion of theft. The next day, Rupolal’s wife, Bharati Rani, filed a murder case with Taraganj Police Station.

Police stated that video footage analysis confirmed Yunus Ali’s direct involvement in the killings. Following legal procedures, he will be sent to jail custody.

The Election Commission on Saturday canceled the nomination of BNP candidate Monjurul Ahsan Munshi for the Comilla-4 (Debidwar) constituency ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election. The decision was announced after a hearing held at the Election Commission building in Agargaon, Dhaka. The seat also features National Citizen Party (NCP) candidate Hasnat Abdullah, who is contesting from a 10-party alliance.

Following the cancellation, Monjurul Ahsan Munshi shared a statement on Facebook urging supporters not to lose hope, describing the decision as part of an ongoing legal process. He stated that the Election Commission’s decision was not final and that the matter was under consideration by the High Court. Munshi expressed confidence that justice would prevail and his nomination would be reinstated.

He called for patience and unity among his supporters, emphasizing that they would continue their efforts through legal means and that truth and justice would ultimately triumph.

Local Government Ministry adviser Adilur Rahman Khan stated that no one can breach Bangladesh’s border if the country’s security guards remain vigilant. He made the remark on Saturday after inspecting the ongoing ‘Rainwater Reservoir’ project at Anjumanpara in Palongkhali Union of Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar. The project aims to address the long-standing safe water crisis in Ukhiya and Teknaf.

According to the adviser, groundwater levels in the region have been falling while salinity has increased, creating a severe shortage of safe water. The rainwater reservoir project is designed to provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution by collecting rainwater during the monsoon season, storing it in specially built reservoirs, and purifying it for year-round use by local residents. This initiative is expected to ensure easier access to safe water and reduce dependence on groundwater.

Adilur Rahman Khan noted that two to three phases of the project have already been completed and expressed satisfaction with the progress. He instructed relevant departments to maintain quality and complete the project within the scheduled time.