China and Pakistan celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations on May 21, 2026, highlighting a partnership that began in 1950 when Pakistan became the first Muslim-majority nation to recognize the Communist government in Beijing. The relationship deepened after Pakistan ceded control of the Shaksgam Valley to China in 1963 under a border agreement, a move driven by strategic calculations following China's victory over India in 1962. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reaffirmed the strength of bilateral ties during a Senate session attended by a visiting Chinese parliamentary delegation, which unanimously adopted a resolution reaffirming friendship and brotherhood. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to visit Beijing for a four-day state trip as part of the anniversary events.

Analysts note that the China-Pakistan relationship is based more on strategic necessity than ideological alignment. Cooperation has spanned nuclear development, defense technology, and infrastructure, including the $62 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor launched in 2015. Despite military successes, economic challenges persist, with Pakistan’s debt to China reaching $29 billion and security threats continuing to endanger Chinese nationals and projects.

Experts suggest that while the partnership remains militarily strong, its economic imbalance and security risks could test its long-term sustainability.

Heavy traffic congestion was reported on the Dhaka-Tangail highway on May 25, 2026, as thousands of homebound passengers left the Savar-Ashulia industrial area following the closure of garment factories for the Eid holidays. Despite rain, large crowds gathered at bus stands along the Nabinagar-Chandra, Abdullahpur-Baipail, and Dhaka-Aricha routes. Traffic slowed to a crawl or stopped entirely in several sections, with an eight-kilometer stretch of the Nabinagar-Chandra highway particularly affected.

Passengers faced long delays, with many unable to reach their destinations on time. Some travelers alleged that transport operators were charging double fares due to the high demand. According to Dhaka District Police Superintendent Shamima Parvin, around 3,000 police officers were deployed to ensure smooth and safe Eid travel. Several volunteer organizations were also assisting in traffic management.

Officials warned that congestion could worsen as the evening progressed, given the increasing number of outbound travelers on the major highways.

Senior Republican leaders have sharply criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed memorandum of understanding with Iran aimed at halting hostilities. Trump announced on Sunday that the agreement, nearly finalized, would include reopening the Strait of Hormuz but did not clarify Iran’s nuclear commitments. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei confirmed talks on a 14-point framework that could take effect for 30 to 60 days, covering maritime access, lifting naval blockades, and suspending conflicts in Lebanon and other fronts. Iranian officials emphasized that nuclear issues are excluded from the current discussions.

Republican senators Lindsey Graham, Tom Cotton, Roger Wicker, and Ted Cruz voiced strong opposition, warning that the deal could empower Tehran, undermine Israel’s security, and reverse U.S. military gains. Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo compared the initiative to Barack Obama’s 2015 nuclear accord, calling it inconsistent with the “America First” policy, while former National Security Adviser John Bolton dismissed the talks as a waste of time.

Trump maintained optimism about reaching an agreement but warned Iran of severe consequences if negotiations fail. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed some progress in the discussions.

At least 27 people were killed in separate road accidents across Bangladesh on the first day of the Eid-ul-Azha holidays, according to reports published on May 25, 2026. The deadliest crash occurred in Tangail’s Kalihati upazila, where a rod-laden truck overturned on the Dhaka-Tangail-Jamuna Bridge highway, killing 15 low-income passengers and injuring nine others. The victims were mostly from Naogaon, Rajshahi, and Chapainawabganj districts, returning home for Eid after working in Noakhali.

Additional fatal incidents were reported in Bogura, Gopalganj, Naogaon’s Patnitala, Sirajganj’s Shahjadpur, Munshiganj, and Kishoreganj’s Austagram, claiming 12 more lives. These included a father and daughter in Bogura, a microbus driver in Gopalganj, two people in Patnitala, two in Shahjadpur, two in Munshiganj, and three family members in Austagram. Police and fire service officials confirmed the casualties and said injured victims were taken to nearby hospitals.

The series of accidents cast a shadow of grief over several districts as millions began their homeward journeys for Eid celebrations.

At least 28 people were killed when an illegal gold mine collapsed in Angola’s Bengo province on Saturday, according to police reports. The incident occurred northeast of the capital Luanda, where many miners were trapped under the debris. Among the victims were 13 members of the same family. Rescue operations are ongoing, with authorities believing at least two workers remain trapped inside the mine.

Police spokesperson Gaspar Luis Inacio said rescue teams have been working continuously since the collapse. Several injured workers were taken to a local hospital, where officials confirmed that at least three of them are now in stable condition. The victims were aged between 18 and 40.

Illegal mining remains widespread in parts of Africa, often lacking safety measures and posing severe risks during the rainy season or natural disasters. The latest collapse in Angola has renewed concerns over unregulated mining operations and the safety of workers involved in such activities.

NCP’s southern regional chief coordinator and Member of Parliament Hasnat Abdullah alleged that the current BNP government is following the path of the Awami League by using the police as a partisan force. Speaking at a press conference organized by the NCP at Payra Chattar in Jhenaidah on Monday evening, he claimed that the government is interfering in the judiciary and controlling court verdicts and bail decisions from Dhaka. The event followed an attack on NCP’s central chief coordinator Nasiruddin Patwari, which led to counter cases between the NCP and the district Chhatra Dal.

Hasnat criticized the government for turning the police and judiciary into tools for political agendas, saying that such actions mirror the Awami League’s past behavior. He expressed disappointment that after the July mass uprising, the police were expected to serve the people but are now acting as government loyalists. NCP leaders, including Tariq Reza and Rifat Rashid, also spoke at the event.

Following the press conference, NCP activists held a protest march through key streets of Jhenaidah, demanding justice and denouncing political repression.

A high-level Iranian delegation has arrived in Doha, Qatar, to participate in peace talks aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with the United States. According to international media reports, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi traveled to meet Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. Iranian state media said Ghalibaf is leading the delegation as Tehran’s chief negotiator. The visit is part of the diplomatic process initiated after the U.S.-Iran conflict began on February 28.

Iranian outlets Tasnim and Fars reported that Central Bank Governor Abdolnaser Hemmati is also part of the delegation. Diplomatic sources told AFP that the Doha meeting will review progress in the peace efforts. Reuters and AFP sources indicated that discussions will focus on two key issues: the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s highly enriched uranium program.

The talks are also expected to address the release of Iranian funds frozen abroad. Iranian media reported that a Qatari delegation recently visited Tehran to discuss the issue, while Pakistan continues to mediate between Tehran and Washington over the release of these assets.

Nasiruddin Patwari, chief organizer of the Nagorik Party (NCP), called for building a movement for 'Insafer Bangla' and urged people to unite for justice and reform. In a post on Monday night, he outlined his vision of 'Azad Bangla', emphasizing freedom for rivers, seas, nature, and people. He said rivers should belong to the people, ensuring water flow for farmers and protecting national sovereignty over natural resources.

Patwari’s message also highlighted the need for an independent economic, political, and cultural framework, along with free education, religious, and social institutions. He called for a health system that protects workers from neglect and for employment opportunities within the country to prevent labor exploitation abroad. He stressed secure borders, fair elections, and the defense of national sovereignty.

The statement concluded with a call for students, workers, and youth to unite in protecting the motherland and upholding the pride of the national flag, symbolizing freedom and justice.

A sudden nor'wester storm struck Chandpur on Monday afternoon, killing one person and injuring ten others. The storm caused two passenger launches to collide near the Chandpur launch terminal, disrupting river transport on the Dhaka–Chandpur route. Witnesses said a tree fell on a moving CNG auto-rickshaw at Chandra Chourasta, killing 60-year-old Helal instantly. Several launches, pontoons, and jetties at the terminal were also damaged by the strong winds.

During the storm, the passenger launch ‘Mayur-2’ lost control and hit another vessel, ‘Eagle-7’, as it was docking. Panic spread among passengers, leading to a rush to disembark, during which several people, including women and children, were injured. Some of the injured were taken to Chandpur General Hospital for treatment.

Fire service, coast guard, and police personnel quickly launched rescue and safety operations, moving passengers to safety and restoring order. According to BIWTA officials, two launches and several port structures were damaged, and repair work is underway to ease passenger suffering.

International debate has intensified over the United States’ position in the Middle East crisis as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s vow of ‘certain victory’ against Iran appears to be fading. According to international media reports, U.S. President Donald Trump told Netanyahu in a recent phone call that Washington is discussing a ‘letter of intent’ with Tehran. The proposed agreement could include a formal end to hostilities, 30 days of talks on Iran’s nuclear program, and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Analysts interpret this diplomatic move as a sign of Washington’s gradual withdrawal from the conflict, suggesting the Trump administration now prefers limited symbolic actions over deeper military involvement. The crisis began in March when Israel attacked Iran’s Pars gas field, prompting Iranian retaliation on a Qatari facility. Since then, Iran has demanded war reparations, sanction relief, and recognition of its control over the Strait of Hormuz.

Reports indicate Iran is consolidating control of the strait through new transit deals with Russia, China, and other nations. Observers warn that U.S. restraint could weaken global sanctions and expand Iran’s influence in energy trade, while Israel faces growing strategic pressure.

Armed assailants launched simultaneous attacks on two temporary camps of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and police in the remote hilly area of Jungle Salimpur, Sitakunda, Chattogram, late Sunday night. Around 250 to 300 armed men, believed to be members of the Yasin Bahini group, carried out the assault, prompting a joint operation by RAB and police. The attackers reportedly cut roads at five key points using excavators before the assault to block reinforcements and later escaped without resistance. No arrests or weapon recoveries were reported as of Monday afternoon.

Security analysts described the incident as a major intelligence failure at three levels—before, during, and after the attack. They noted that heavy machinery operated overnight without detection, no early warnings were issued, and the attackers’ escape routes remain unidentified. Experts said the operation reflected long-term planning and local collaboration, highlighting weaknesses in surveillance and coordination among intelligence agencies.

Officials acknowledged the need for stronger monitoring systems in the hilly region. Analysts warned that without improved intelligence integration and local engagement, preventing similar future attacks would remain difficult.

Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has announced an extensive plan to ensure a clean and joyful Eid-ul-Azha for city residents. At a press conference held at the National Eidgah on Monday, DSCC detailed preparations for the main Eid congregation and waste management operations. The main Eid prayer will take place at 7:30 a.m. at the National Eidgah, with an alternative arrangement at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque if weather conditions are unfavorable. Facilities such as air conditioning, water, sanitation, and medical services have been arranged, along with tight security coordination.

For waste management, DSCC will begin transporting sacrificial waste from the Kalabagan STS to the Matuail landfill at 1:30 p.m. on Eid day, aiming to complete removal within eight hours by 9:30 p.m. An estimated 33,942 tons of waste will be generated over three days, handled by 13,453 personnel and 117 vehicles. The corporation is distributing disinfectants and biodegradable bags across 75 wards and will monitor operations through a central control room.

DSCC has urged residents to dispose of waste only at designated spots and maintain cleanliness by using disinfectants after sacrifices.

Mohammad Nurul Amin, a veteran banker with over four decades of experience, has been appointed as the new chairman of the board of directors of Bangladesh Krishi Bank. The appointment was made on Sunday by the Financial Institutions Division of the Ministry of Finance of the Government of Bangladesh.

Amin has served in key leadership roles across several prominent banks and financial institutions in the country during his 42-year career. Before assuming his current position, he worked for about 13 years as managing director and chief executive officer of Meghna Bank and NCC Bank. He is widely recognized for his strategic leadership and contributions to the development of the banking sector.

He previously chaired major industry bodies including the Association of Bankers, Bangladesh (ABB), the Bangladesh Foreign Exchange Dealers Association (BAFEDA), and Primary Dealers Bangladesh Limited. His academic background includes degrees in economics from the University of Dhaka and diplomas from Oxford and Cambridge universities. His leadership is expected to strengthen governance and modernization efforts at Bangladesh Krishi Bank.

The Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) and Dhaka Union of Journalists (DUJ) have strongly condemned the dismissal of journalists, officers, and employees from the daily Janakantha without paying their salaries, allowances, or Eid bonuses ahead of Eid-ul-Azha. In a joint statement issued on Monday, leaders of both unions described the move as illegal and inhumane, asserting that at least fifty staff members were terminated without prior notice, some after decades of service.

The unions said the decision violated labor laws and wage board regulations, calling it an attack on the dignity of media workers. They demanded immediate payment of all dues, cancellation of termination notices, and reinstatement of the affected employees. The statement also noted that during a peaceful protest by dismissed workers outside the Janakantha building, security personnel obstructed them, leaving several injured and hospitalized.

BFUJ and DUJ warned that if the management fails to act responsibly and resolve the issue through dialogue, they will announce broader protest programs to secure journalists’ rights.

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 plan, once hailed as a blueprint for transforming the Middle East, is now facing major setbacks. The ambitious initiative, launched a decade ago to diversify the economy beyond oil through technology, tourism, and investment, is being reassessed amid financial and geopolitical pressures. Several mega projects, including the $500 billion NEOM city, have been scaled back, delayed, or risk cancellation as the 2030 deadline approaches.

Analysts attribute the slowdown to economic strain and regional instability. Falling oil prices before the recent Middle East war reduced Saudi revenues, while the ongoing conflict has created uncertainty for long-term investments. Foreign investment has also fallen short of expectations, with experts citing unrealistic planning and exaggerated projections by officials and consultants. Previous projects, such as the King Abdullah Economic City, similarly failed to meet expectations.

Despite setbacks, Vision 2030 has brought visible social changes, including women’s driving rights and international entertainment events. However, the new regional war has further clouded Saudi Arabia’s economic outlook, particularly in technology and manufacturing sectors, though mining remains stable.