Fakhrul claims efforts are underway to undermine press freedom.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has accused a group of "reckless instigators" of attempting to destroy press freedom in the country, calling it something no patriotic or conscientious citizen should accept. He urged those involved to refrain from such self-destructive actions and to support efforts to institutionalize democracy.

Speaking at a program in the capital, Fakhrul lamented the troubling rise in assaults on the press and freedom of expression, values for which the nation has always fought. He pointed out that it was Khaleda Zia who "first freed the press in 2001" and that press freedom was most respected during her tenure under the BNP government. "This is the reality," he said.

Fakhrul also called for patience, noting that the current government is an interim one and cannot resolve all issues immediately. "We are not against reforms, but challenges like these cannot be addressed without elections," he emphasized.

Expressing concern over the current state of the country, Fakhrul cautioned that the country’s enemies, who have retreated from the forefront, are now trying to destabilize it from behind. "We must remain vigilant," he urged, calling for patience from the people.

The BNP leader stressed the importance of tolerance, saying, "It is unfortunate that the people of our country lack tolerance. We must exercise patience." He added, "Today, we need to support this government. If it fails, the revolution will fail, and we will once again be plunged into darkness. Therefore, it is essential for everyone to approach these issues with a positive mindset."

 

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Israel launches a series of attacks on Beirut as its cabinet prepares to discuss a potential Hezbollah ceasefire agreement.

 

Israel intensifies airstrikes on Beirut as the cabinet prepares to discuss a potential Hezbollah ceasefire agreement.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has launched extensive attacks on Hezbollah targets in the Beirut area, following new evacuation orders for residents in the city's southern suburbs.

The IDF issued an urgent warning to those living or working in specific buildings in the southern suburbs, advising them to evacuate immediately due to their proximity to Hezbollah facilities. The evacuation notice, shared on X, urges residents to stay at least 500 meters (1,640 feet) away from these buildings for their safety.

On Tuesday morning, the IDF had already targeted the southern suburbs of Beirut after issuing a similar warning.

Meanwhile, a massive explosion was reported in central Beirut, with no prior warning from Israel's military, according to Middle East correspondent Hugo Bachega. Israeli airstrikes had caused large plumes of smoke to rise over southern Beirut.

Reports indicate that Israel’s security cabinet is set to approve a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal with Hezbollah later today. Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib expressed optimism that a deal could be reached by tonight. Despite ongoing airstrikes and Hezbollah's rocket fire into northern Israel, there is hope for a ceasefire agreement.

The proposed plan involves Israeli forces withdrawing from southern Lebanon within 60 days, while the Lebanese army would take over the region. Hezbollah would also cease its armed presence within 30 kilometers (20 miles) of the Israeli border. While some Israeli far-right ministers oppose the deal, it is expected to be approved by the security cabinet.

Israel's Defence Minister, Israel Katz, emphasized that the country would demand strong UN enforcement of any ceasefire agreement, maintaining a stance of "zero tolerance" toward violations.

Earlier, the IDF confirmed airstrikes on six Hezbollah targets in southern Beirut, including infrastructure used by Hezbollah’s missile units and command centers in the Dahieh area, a region controlled by the militant group. The IDF stated that steps were taken to minimize civilian harm, referring to the evacuation orders that were issued before the strikes.

Hezbollah has yet to comment on the latest attacks.

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Imran Khan's supporters arrive at the center of Islamabad, bypassing barricades.

 

Imran Khan's party announced plans to hold a sit-in at D Chowk, near Islamabad's parliamentary buildings, until their demands—chiefly the release of Khan from jail—were met.

However, within hours, the area was cleared, and protesters began to disperse to nearby parts of the city.

Security forces swiftly regained control of D Chowk, and by 7:07 PM, BBC reporters at the scene confirmed that the area was deserted, with only police and paramilitary forces present. It remains unclear where the protesters, or their leaders, have gone.

The PTI confirmed that police had taken control of the site and were shutting down nearby markets. The party's media coordinator expressed uncertainty about the whereabouts of protest leaders, including Bushra Bibi, Imran Khan’s wife. "I don’t know; the internet is a big issue," the spokesperson said.

As reported earlier, large groups of protesters had marched to Islamabad in support of the jailed former prime minister. Khan had issued a "final" call for his supporters to remain in the capital until the government addressed their demands, including his release.

One protester explained they were there at Khan's request, not just for him, but for the sake of the nation. "Imran Khan told us to come here, not for him, but for our country’s future," he said. "We’ll stay here until Khan is with us and tells us what to do next."

Another protester, Abdul Rashid, told AFP, "This is not our government; it is made up of traitors. Long live Imran Khan."

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CM Gandapur pledges to reach Islamabad's D-Chowk as his convoy approaches the protest site.

 

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has reaffirmed his commitment to reaching Islamabad's D-Chowk for the PTI's highly anticipated power show, despite reports of heavy tear gas shelling by security forces to disperse the protest.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned what he called an "attack by protesters," which, according to the interior minister, resulted in the deaths of at least four security personnel.

The developments come as PTI convoys, which have been traveling across the country since Sunday, converge in Islamabad to demand the release of Imran Khan and address other issues.

As CM Gandapur’s convoy—expected to be the largest—neared D-Chowk, the PTI leader reiterated his determination to reach the protest venue. “We must reach D-Chowk,” he declared to protesters nearby, who responded with chants of “D-Chowk.”

“Until Imran Khan gives the orders, we must protect him,” Gandapur said, flanked by National Assembly opposition leader Omar Ayub Khan. “We are peaceful. Let us hold our sit-in peacefully,” he added.

Meanwhile, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan urged the government to "refrain from firing at innocent people" amid reports of heavy tear gas shelling on protesters. On social media, he called for peaceful protests, expressing hope for the early release of Imran Khan.

Images from around 3pm showed PTI protesters near D-Chowk, with many climbing containers placed to block their path. Army personnel were seen on top of one of the containers.

D-Chowk, a major roundabout in Islamabad’s fortified Red Zone, has long been a focal point for political protests, located near key government buildings such as Parliament House, the Supreme Court, the Pakistan Secretariat, and the Prime Minister’s Office.

Later visuals showed protesters gathering about 550 meters from D-Chowk, where multiple layers of containers were erected to block their advance.

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Bushra Bibi reaffirms call for Imran's release as PTI's KP convoy reaches Islamabad's boundaries.

 

Bushra Bibi, the wife of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, reiterated her call for the release of the PTI leader during a brief address to rally participants as the convoy from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa entered the limits of Islamabad on Monday.

Addressing supporters near the Hazara Interchange, she said, "My brothers, as long as Imran is not with us, we will not end this march. I will stay here until my last breath, and I need all of you to support me. This is not just about my husband; it's about our country and its leader."

Bushra Bibi is traveling with the convoy led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Amin Ali Gandapur. PTI leader Shaukat Yousafzai confirmed to Dawn.com that the convoy entered Islamabad via the Sangjani toll plaza, with footage of the procession shared by the party showing its arrival in the capital.

Multiple PTI convoys are converging on Islamabad, according to PTI leader Muhammad Basharat Raja. Earlier, Bushra Bibi had posted a video calling on those still in other areas to join the march, emphasizing the high morale of the protesters. “Those who consider Islamabad their fiefdom and block it for the citizens of Pakistan should take notice!” the party warned.

Meanwhile, as PTI MNA Zartaj Gul Wazir’s convoy from South Punjab neared Islamabad, she claimed all of Imran Khan's demands were justified. She called for the release of all innocent prisoners, including their leader, and mentioned that thousands were part of the South Punjab convoy, which also included PTI South Punjab President Aon Abbas Buppi. Some convoys had already reached Islamabad, while others were still en route.

"Our ultimate goal is to reach Islamabad, where our leader will be exonerated,” Wazir stated. Buppi also confirmed his convoy's arrival near Islamabad, reassuring supporters that the time to act was near.

PTI leader Sanam Javaid Khan shared an update from her convoy, mentioning they had reached Hassanabdal, and listed the party leaders traveling with her, including Bushra Bibi, Gandapur, and others.

PTI leader Shaukat Yousafzai reported that although the convoys had departed for Islamabad, their progress was slow due to their large size and police barriers. However, he claimed the police had retreated upon seeing the scale of the rally. He reiterated that Gandapur's convoy aimed to reach D-Chowk "peacefully, but at any cost."

Yousafzai added that PTI workers from several regions, including Shangla, Hazara, Peshawar, Mardan, and Swabi, were converging on the motorway near the Burhan Interchange. He also alleged that party workers had been targeted by police shelling. The protest would continue, Yousafzai said, until "innocent political prisoners," including Imran Khan, were released.

The PTI also criticized the government, accusing it of incompetence and seeking to "crush PTI" with roadblocks and violence. "We are slowly moving towards our destination, and God willing, the truth shall win," Yousafzai declared.

In a statement shared on X, Barrister Gohar responded to a question about the protest, emphasizing that this was Imran Khan's "final call" and that the march would not be called off.

Meanwhile, sources reported that all roads leading to Islamabad's Red Zone, except for Margalla Road, were blocked by security forces.

In response, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari questioned the effectiveness of PTI's protest. Speaking to the media in Lahore, she pointed out the ongoing violence in Kurram and criticized Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's CM for focusing on Islamabad instead of addressing the crisis in his province. She also noted that approximately 80 people had been arrested during the protest in Punjab on Sunday, and she expressed doubt that the rally would result in any substantial change, calling it a potential "disappointment."

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Biden's Last-Minute Authorization for Strikes Deep Inside Russia Sparks Division in Europe

 

Biden’s Last-Minute Authorization for Strikes Deep Inside Russia Sparks Division Across Europe

President Biden's last-minute decision to authorize Ukrainian forces to strike deep inside Russia has sparked a split among European leaders.

In a dramatic move, North Korea has deployed 11,000 troops to Russia’s Kursk region, where Ukraine has been mounting a counter-offensive since August.

Meanwhile, the European Union is preparing to inform member states that they may redirect up to 372 billion euros ($392 billion) in unspent subsidies from Brussels to military purposes, according to a report from the Financial Times last week, citing EU officials. Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service has also confirmed the upcoming policy shift.

These funds, originally allocated for the Cohesion Fund to support growth in poorer EU regions, could now be used for dual-purpose infrastructure—such as roads and bridges with military significance—or for military equipment like drones and vehicles, the FT reported.

In parallel, the Biden administration is moving quickly to draw down $7.1 billion in military supplies, including equipment and ammunition, from US stockpiles to be sent to Ukraine almost weekly before the transition of power to President Trump on January 20.

The most contentious move, however, has been Biden's reversal of a previous ban on using US-made weapons 300km (185 miles) inside Russian territory. According to the Washington Post and New York Times, unnamed officials have confirmed that Ukraine is now authorized to use US Army Tactical Missiles (ATACMS) in Russia's Kursk region, where approximately 50,000 Russian and North Korean troops are engaged in staving off the Ukrainian counteroffensive.

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ICC Issues Arrest Warrants for Israel’s Netanyahu and Gallant, Hamas's Deif

 

The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif.

Israeli warplanes are bombing Lebanon's southern Tyre district, while the Israeli military has issued new evacuation orders for the area.

In northern Gaza, Israeli forces have launched two waves of airstrikes on Beit Lahiya and Gaza City's Sheikh Radwan neighbourhood, killing at least 88 Palestinians.

US envoy Amos Hochstein is in Israel for talks with Netanyahu about a potential ceasefire in Lebanon, a day after Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem called for a full ceasefire and the protection of Lebanon's sovereignty in any truce.

The US Senate has blocked an attempt to halt arms shipments to Israel, shortly after Washington vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

Since October 7, 2023, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have killed at least 44,056 Palestinians and wounded 104,286. On that day, Hamas-led attacks in Israel resulted in 1,139 deaths and more than 200 people taken captive.

In Lebanon, Israeli attacks have killed at least 3,558 people and injured 15,123 since the conflict began.

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Trump selects former WWE CEO and TV personality Dr. Oz for prominent roles.

 President-elect Donald Trump has announced key nominations for his upcoming administration, selecting Linda McMahon, former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and current transition co-chair, as his pick for Education Secretary. McMahon, a long-time Trump ally, previously served as head of the Small Business Administration during Trump’s first term and has been a major donor to his campaigns.  

Despite her limited experience in education, McMahon has been a staunch advocate for parents’ rights in her role as chair of the pro-Trump America First Policy Institute. Trump has pledged to dismantle the Department of Education, a task McMahon may oversee. In a statement on Truth Social, Trump said McMahon would lead efforts to "send education BACK TO THE STATES," a move aligned with Republican goals to shift authority from federal agencies to state governments.  

McMahon’s nomination comes amid controversy. She is named in a recent lawsuit alleging WWE leadership ignored abuse claims against a former ringside announcer, accusations her legal team has dismissed as baseless.  

In another notable pick, Trump has tapped Dr. Mehmet Oz, the former TV host and surgeon, to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The agency oversees healthcare for over 150 million Americans and regulates policies impacting the cost of medical services.  

Dr. Oz rose to fame as a celebrity physician on *The Oprah Winfrey Show* and later hosted *The Dr. Oz Show.* However, he has faced criticism for promoting unproven health remedies and alternative treatments. During the pandemic, he endorsed the use of hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine, drugs deemed ineffective against COVID-19 by experts.  

Trump praised Oz as the ideal candidate to "make America healthy again" and tasked him with combating inefficiency in the nation’s largest healthcare programs, which cost over $1.4 trillion in 2023. Oz will work alongside Health Secretary nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to address chronic diseases and healthcare reform.  

Both nominations require Senate confirmation, with McMahon’s likely in the Republican-majority chamber. These selections reflect Trump’s continued preference for loyalists and high-profile figures as he prepares to return to the White House in January 2025.

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Thai woman faces death penalty for allegedly poisoning 14 friends with cyanide.

 

A Thai woman has been sentenced to death in the first of several cases where she is accused of murdering 14 friends using cyanide.

The Bangkok court convicted 36-year-old Sararat Rangsiwuthaporn of poisoning a wealthy friend during a trip in 2023. Sararat allegedly added cyanide to the food and drink of her friend, Siriporn Khanwong, 32, while they participated in a Buddhist ritual by a river in Ratchaburi province. Siriporn collapsed and died after the meal. An autopsy revealed cyanide in her system, and her valuables, including her phone and money, were missing.

Sararat, known as "Am Cyanide" in Thai media, is suspected of a string of similar murders dating back to 2015. Police say she targeted friends she owed money to, stealing their valuables after poisoning them. One victim survived her alleged attack. Investigators believe her gambling addiction motivated the crimes.

Siriporn's mother, Thongpin Kiatchanasiri, expressed relief outside the courtroom, holding a photo of her daughter. "You got justice, my child," she said. However, she noted her anger at Sararat, who reportedly smiled during the sentencing. Sararat pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Sararat’s former husband, ex-police officer Vitoon Rangsiwuthaporn, and her lawyer were also convicted for hiding evidence to protect her. They received prison sentences of one year and four months, and two years, respectively. Vitoon is also suspected of assisting Sararat in poisoning one of her former boyfriends.

In addition to the death sentence, Sararat was ordered to pay Siriporn's family two million baht (approximately $57,667) in compensation.

Cyanide, a deadly chemical that deprives cells of oxygen, can cause heart attacks, lung injury, and death within seconds in large doses. Its use is heavily regulated in Thailand, with unauthorized possession punishable by up to two years in prison.

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Ukraine urges calm amid 'Russian psychological attack' as embassies shut down.

 The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has responded to announcements earlier today from several countries, including the US, Spain, Italy, and Greece, about temporarily closing their embassies in Kyiv.

The US embassy cited "specific information about a potential significant air attack" on the capital as the reason for its temporary closure.

In a statement, Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi acknowledged that such threats are an "unfortunate daily reality" for Ukraine. He emphasized that the current threat is "as relevant as it has been on the previous thousand days."

Tykhyi added, "We believe it is appropriate for our partners to respond on the 1,001st day just as they have on the previous thousand, without amplifying information pressure."

He urged Ukrainian citizens to "remain vigilant," heed air raid sirens, and stay prepared "as always with the ongoing threat of Russian missile attacks."

Notably, Spain's embassy, which had also temporarily closed earlier in the day, has since reopened.

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Health Concerns Renew Attention on Khamenei's Possible Successor

 Speculation about the health of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has reignited discussions about the country’s leadership transition, reports Maayan Hoffman for *The Media Line*. Although Iranian state media released a photo to refute claims that the 85-year-old leader is gravely ill, questions persist about the impact of his eventual departure from power. Journalist and analyst Ashkan Safaei Hakimi suggested to *The Media Line* that a new leader might attempt to mend ties with the West, creating a false perception of reform, or that political uncertainty could spark a popular uprising, destabilizing the regime.  

Khamenei, who has led Iran for over three decades, wields significant influence over its foreign policy and nuclear strategy. While his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, is often mentioned as a potential successor, the ultimate decision lies with the secretive Assembly of Experts. Dr. Liora Hendelman-Baavur of the Alliance Center for Iranian Studies noted that the recent health rumors may have been designed to provoke internal unrest.  

Opposition to the regime remains strong, with the Tony Blair Institute documenting over 4,000 protests across Iran in recent years. Previous rumors about Khamenei’s health, including reports of prostate cancer, have intensified speculation around his succession. As Hoffman points out, while figures like Mojtaba are closely watched, Iran’s succession process is unpredictable, adding further uncertainty to the country’s political future.

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"On War's 1,000th Day, Zelensky Urges Allies to Intensify Pressure on Russia"

 

 Ukrainian President Zelensky called on Europe to "push Russia harder" during a speech marking the 1,000th day since Vladimir Putin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

"The more time he [Putin] has, the worse the situation becomes," Zelensky told a special session of the European Parliament on Tuesday.

His comments came amid reports suggesting that Ukraine may have used the U.S.-supplied ATACMS long-range missile system for the first time, striking a target deep inside Russian territory. The attack reportedly hit an ammunition depot in Bryansk, a region approximately 100 kilometers from the Ukrainian border, according to an unconfirmed report by RBC Ukraine. This came a day after Washington gave its approval for Ukraine to use the missiles.

 

Kyiv frequently uses domestically produced drones to strike targets inside Russia, and there was no immediate confirmation that U.S. missiles had been deployed in the recent attack.

On Monday, U.S. officials announced that President Biden had lifted sanctions restricting the use of the ATACMS missile system beyond Ukraine's borders. It is believed that Ukraine was given the green light to use the missiles exclusively to defend its forces in Russia's Kursk region, where Kyiv launched a surprise incursion in August and where a potential assault by Russian and North Korean troops was anticipated in the coming days.

**Putin Approves Changes to Russia's Nuclear Doctrine**

During his speech to the European Parliament on the 1,000th day since Russia's invasion on February 24, 2022, Zelensky warned that Putin "will not stop on his own" and urged the international community to push Russia towards a "just peace." He also highlighted the recent deployment of North Korean troops to Russia, signaling Moscow’s intent to escalate the conflict further.

"While some European leaders focus on elections or other concerns at Ukraine's expense, Putin is solely focused on winning this war," Zelensky said.

Meanwhile, Ukraine’s top military commander marked the milestone of 1,000 days of war in a message on Telegram, describing the ongoing battle as an "extremely complex, fierce fight for our existence" and the "destruction of the enemy." He spoke of the hardships faced by Ukrainian soldiers in the freezing trenches of Donetsk and the scorched fields of Kherson under constant bombardment, emphasizing that "every dark night, even if there are a thousand of them, always ends with dawn."

These comments came after a drone attack in Ukraine's northeastern Sumy region overnight, which killed eight people, including a child, and followed a separate strike on Sunday that left 89 dead.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin approved an updated nuclear doctrine that expands the conditions under which Russia could consider using nuclear weapons. The new policy states that any aggression from a non-nuclear state, if backed by a nuclear power, would be treated as a joint attack on Russia. It also asserts that large-scale attacks on Russia using conventional missiles, drones, or aircraft, as well as threats to Belarus or Russia’s sovereignty, could trigger a nuclear response.

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US envoy declares that a ceasefire agreement in Lebanon is "within reach."

US envoy Amos Hochstein said that a ceasefire deal between Israel and Lebanon is “within our grasp,” but added it was ultimately “the decision of the parties.”

Hochstein was addressing reporters in Beirut on Tuesday after a meeting with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, the interlocutor with Hezbollah in the talks.

The US envoy said there had been “constructive” and “very good discussions to narrow the gaps.”

“We have a real opportunity to bring conflict to an end,” he said. “The window is now.”

He also told reporters he would not be taking any question as he did not want “to be negotiating this in public.”

After speaking with Berri, Hochstein met with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati at his residence in Beirut on Tuesday to discuss efforts to end the Israel-Hezbollah war, according to the state-run National News Agency (NNA).

The meeting was attended by Lebanon’s foreign minister and the US ambassador to Lebanon, NNA said.

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Dwayne Johnson's Christmas Movie Earns Over $34 Million in Opening Weekend, with a Budget Over $200 Million

 

Moviegoers weren’t exactly embracing the holiday spirit this weekend, at least not when it came to *Red One*.  

The star-studded action comedy, featuring Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans, grossed $34.1 million in its opening weekend, according to studio estimates. While it topped a box office filled mainly with holdovers, its debut is a mixed result given its hefty $200 million-plus budget, with some estimates putting the cost closer to $250 million.  

For most traditional studios, such a debut would signal a flop. However, *Red One* is an Amazon MGM Studios release, and its performance in theaters may not be its primary focus. With Amazon’s backing, the film has the advantage of a long-term strategy, potentially finding a wider audience on Prime Video in the future.  

Originally conceived as a direct-to-streaming film before Amazon’s acquisition of MGM, *Red One* was positioned to help sustain theaters with fresh content. In this sense, its box office earnings may be seen as more of a bonus, with its true value lying in its extended digital life.

"Amazon has over 250 million worldwide subscribers, which gives a movie like this huge potential," said Kevin Wilson, head of distribution for Amazon MGM Studios. "It's similar to how Netflix views content for its platform—there’s immense value in terms of how many people will ultimately see the film."

*Red One*, the first major studio holiday release since 2018, debuted on 4,032 screens, including IMAX and other premium formats, during a relatively quiet weekend for new releases.

“We’re really pleased with the results,” Wilson added. “Considering how unforgiving the theatrical market can be, especially for original films, this is a strong showing for us.”

Since 2020, only seven films that weren’t sequels or based on existing franchises have grossed over $30 million in their opening weekend, including *Oppenheimer* and *Nope*.

Warner Bros. is handling *Red One*'s international release, where the film has grossed an estimated $50 million over two weekends from 75 markets and 14,783 screens.

However, the film has yet to make a significant impact at the North American box office. Even *Joker: Folie à Deux* outpaced it slightly in its opening weekend. Directed by Jake Kasdan and produced by Dwayne Johnson’s Seven Bucks Productions, *Red One* has been widely criticized, earning a disappointing 33% on Rotten Tomatoes. Jake Coyle of The Associated Press wrote that it “feels like an unwanted high-priced Christmas present.”

Audiences, however, were more favorable, awarding the film an A- on CinemaScore. This suggests that it might still have potential to become a holiday staple in the future.

The film is also performing better than expected in middle America, according to Kevin Wilson, and could see a solid hold through the Thanksgiving holiday as a family-friendly alternative to the upcoming blockbusters.

In other box office news, Sony's *Venom: The Last Dance* added $7.4 million over the weekend, securing second place and bringing its domestic total to $127.6 million. Globally, the film has earned $436.1 million.

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Bangladesh to seek extradition of exiled Sheikh Hasina, says government.

 

Bangladesh will seek the extradition of ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India after being toppled in an uprising in August, interim leader Muhammad Yunus announced.

The government has already issued an arrest warrant for the 77-year-old Hasina, who was last seen arriving in India after escaping by helicopter as crowds stormed her palace. Hasina has been summoned to appear in court in Dhaka on Monday to face charges related to “massacres, killings, and crimes against humanity,” but she remains in exile.

Yunus, appointed as the country's interim leader on August 9 following the fall of Hasina's 15-year rule, said his administration is focused on ensuring accountability for those involved in the violent crackdown on protests that led to her ousting. Several former ministers of Hasina’s government, who have been detained, are also expected to appear in court on similar charges.

“We have already initiated proceedings against those responsible for enforced disappearances, murders, and mass killings during the July-August uprising,” Yunus said in a statement on Sunday.

The 84-year-old Nobel Peace Prize laureate, who was appointed as "chief advisor" after the revolution, confirmed that he had communicated with Karim Khan, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), about the situation.

“We will seek the extradition of the ousted autocrat from India,” Yunus said, referring to Hasina.

Earlier this month, Bangladesh announced plans to request an Interpol “red notice” to locate and apprehend fugitive leaders of Hasina’s regime. While India is a member of Interpol, a red notice is not an automatic order for extradition. Countries may decide whether or not to act on such notices based on their own legal systems.

Yunus, known for his pioneering work in microfinance, is leading a transitional government tasked with restoring democratic institutions in Bangladesh, a country of approximately 170 million people. He urged the public to be patient as his administration works on a roadmap for elections.

“We will hold the much-anticipated election once the necessary and essential reforms are complete,” Yunus said in a national address, adding that a new election commission would be formed “within a few days.” However, he did not provide a specific timeline for elections, noting that it would depend on the completion of critical reforms.

“I request your patience until then. We aim to build an electoral system that will endure for decades. For this, we need some time,” Yunus added.

The challenges facing Yunus’ government are significant. According to Crisis Group analyst Thomas Kean, "cracks are emerging in the fragile alliance" that brought Yunus to power. While the interim administration enjoys broad support, the pressure to deliver on promised reforms is mounting.

“If the interim administration falters in making reforms, the outcome is likely to be an early election with little progress,” Kean warned. "In the worst-case scenario, the military could assume power."

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Israeli airstrikes kill 18 Palestinians in Gaza, including several in tented structures, according to medics.

 

Israeli military strikes across the Gaza Strip have killed 18 Palestinians, including six people who died in attacks on tents sheltering displaced families, according to medics, as reported by Reuters.

In the coastal area of Al-Mawasi, which is designated as a humanitarian zone, an Israeli airstrike on a tent encampment killed four people, including two children. Another two people were killed in temporary shelters in Rafah, while one more died in a drone strike, health officials reported.

In northern Gaza, an Israeli missile hit a house in Beit Lahiya, killing at least two people and injuring several others. Meanwhile, in Gaza City, an airstrike on a house killed five people and wounded 10, according to medics.

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ngland vs Ireland: Summary, Score, Stats & Highlights | UEFA Nations League

 **Match Recap: England 5–0 Republic of Ireland**  

### **Full-Time Score**  
England 5–0 Republic of Ireland  

**Final Whistle:** England delivered a dominant performance, overwhelming the Republic of Ireland with clinical finishing and precise teamwork in this UEFA Nations League clash.  

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### **Key Moments and Highlights**  

**First Half:**  
- The first 45 minutes ended goalless, with both teams battling for control. England created several chances but failed to break the deadlock.  
- Liam Scales (Republic of Ireland) received a second yellow card in the 50th minute, reducing Ireland to 10 men.  

**Second Half:**  
- **52'**: **Harry Kane** opened the scoring for England, converting a penalty into the bottom-right corner after Jude Bellingham was fouled in the box.  
- **54'**: **Anthony Gordon** doubled the lead with a precise finish into the bottom-left corner.  
- **57'**: **Conor Gallagher** tapped in from close range after a well-placed corner by Marc Guéhi.  
- **75'**: Substitute **Jarrod Bowen** made it 4–0 with a composed finish following a Bellingham assist.  
- **78'**: **Taylor Harwood-Bellis** completed the rout with a powerful header from a Bellingham cross.  

**Other Highlights:**  
- Ireland’s attack struggled to find rhythm after the red card, with England controlling possession and piling on the pressure.  
- Jude Bellingham played a pivotal role, providing two assists and consistently orchestrating play in midfield.  
- The Republic of Ireland’s goalkeeper, Caoimhín Kelleher, made several key saves to prevent an even larger scoreline.  

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### **Match Stats**  
- **Possession:** England 68% – 32% Ireland  
- **Shots:** England 21 (12 on target) – 5 (2 on target) Ireland  
- **Corners:** England 10 – 2 Ireland  
- **Fouls:** England 15 – 13 Ireland  

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**Player of the Match:** Jude Bellingham – A dominant display with two assists and his relentless midfield presence.  

**Summary:** England’s superior quality and tactical discipline shone throughout the match. This emphatic victory solidifies their position in the UEFA Nations League group, while Ireland faces further challenges as they struggle to find form.

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Italy 1-3 France: UEFA Nations League Group A2 – Live Updates and Highlights

**Match Summary: Italy 1–3 France**  

**95'**  
- Full-time: Italy 1, France 3.  

**94'**  
- Italy earns a corner, conceded by William Saliba.  

**93'**  
- Moise Kean (Italy) has a left-footed shot saved in the bottom-right corner.  
- Nicolò Barella (Italy) wins a free kick in the attacking half after a foul by Bradley Barcola (France).  

**92'**  
- Alessandro Bastoni’s (Italy) left-footed shot is blocked.  
- Mattéo Guendouzi (France) receives a yellow card.  
- Bastoni wins a free kick on the left wing after a foul by Randal Kolo Muani (France).  

**90'**  
- Nicolò Rovella (Italy) takes a shot from outside the box, saved in the top center of the goal. Sandro Tonali provides the assist.  

**89'**  
- Four minutes of added time announced.  

**86'**  
- Nicolò Rovella (Italy) concedes a foul; Mattéo Guendouzi (France) wins a free kick in the defensive half.  

**85'**  
- Destiny Udogie (Italy) wins a free kick on the left wing after a foul by Mattéo Guendouzi (France).  

**84'**  
- Delay due to injury to Alessandro Buongiorno (Italy).  

**83'**  
- France earns a corner, conceded by Nicolò Rovella.  

**82'**  
- Substitution: Destiny Udogie replaces Federico Dimarco (Italy).  

**81'**  
- Substitution: Benjamin Pavard replaces Jules Koundé (France).  
- Bradley Barcola (France) wins a free kick after a foul by Sandro Tonali (Italy).  

**79'**  
- Ibrahima Konaté (France) wins a defensive free kick after a foul by Moise Kean (Italy).  

**77'**  
- Substitution: Bradley Barcola replaces Marcus Thuram (France).  
- Substitution: Daniel Maldini replaces Andrea Cambiaso (Italy).  

**76'**  
- Mattéo Guendouzi (France) wins a defensive free kick after a foul by Nicolò Rovella (Italy).  

**74'**  
- Giovanni Di Lorenzo (Italy) has a header blocked. Nicolò Rovella assists with a cross.  
- Italy earns a corner, conceded by Randal Kolo Muani.  

**69'**  
- Adrien Rabiot (France) wins a defensive free kick after a foul by Giacomo Raspadori (Italy).  

**68'**  
- Andrea Cambiaso (Italy) takes a left-footed shot from outside the box but misses to the left. Nicolò Rovella provides the assist.  

**66'**  
- Triple substitution for Italy: Giacomo Raspadori, Nicolò Rovella, and Moise Kean replace Davide Frattesi, Manuel Locatelli, and Mateo Retegui.  

**64'**  
- **Goal!** Adrien Rabiot (France) scores with a header into the top-right corner, assisted by Lucas Digne following a set piece. France leads 3–1.  

**62'**  
- Manuel Locatelli (Italy) misses a left-footed shot over the bar.  

**60'**  
- Federico Dimarco (Italy) misses from the left side of the box.  

**57'**  
- Christopher Nkunku’s (France) right-footed shot is saved in the bottom-left corner. Mattéo Guendouzi provides the assist.  

**54'**  
- Marcus Thuram’s (France) shot from the left side of the box is blocked.  

**50'**  
- France earns a corner, conceded by Alessandro Buongiorno (Italy).  

**46'**  
- Second half kicks off: Italy 1, France 2.  

---

### First Half Highlights  

**45'**  
- First half ends: Italy 1, France 2.  

**34'**  
- **Goal!** Andrea Cambiaso (Italy) scores with a left-footed shot to the bottom-left corner. Assisted by Federico Dimarco.  

**32'**  
- **Own Goal!** Guglielmo Vicario (Italy) scores an own goal, extending France's lead to 2–0.  

**1'**  
- **Goal!** Adrien Rabiot (France) scores with a close-range header into the top-right corner. Lucas Digne assists from a corner.  

**Kickoff:**  
- The match begins as lineups are announced.

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