Unknown individuals have forcefully taken over eight non-profit organizations founded by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, reflecting a significant breakdown of the rule of law in Bangladesh. Yunus, who has faced ongoing legal battles with the government, described the takeover as a disaster. Supporters, including global leaders, have condemned the actions and called for transparency and justice. The incident has raised concerns about the country's international reputation and the continuous harassment of Yunus.

Bangladesh's electoral history has been fraught with controversy and allegations of undemocratic practices. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League party are poised for a fourth consecutive term, despite opposition claims of unfair elections. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has boycotted the upcoming election, citing the government's refusal to allow a neutral caretaker government. Critics accuse Hasina's government of authoritarianism and human rights abuses. The article traces the history of Bangladesh's elections, highlighting the role of the caretaker system and the ongoing struggle for a credible electoral process.

In Bangladesh, deceased and incarcerated individuals, including opposition activists, have been named in criminal cases related to recent protests demanding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation. Nasir Rahman and Sanaullah Mia, both deceased, were among those wrongly accused. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party claims these 'ghost' cases are baseless and politically motivated. The police acknowledge the possibility of errors, which they attribute to false information from witnesses. The Home Minister denies the existence of such cases, stating that any incorrect accusations are dropped during investigations. The controversy highlights issues within Bangladesh's criminal justice system and the political unrest leading up to the general election.

At least three activists died and hundreds were injured in clashes between police and demonstrators as Bangladesh's main opposition party, BNP, launched a transportation blockade in major cities. The death toll from poll-related protests has risen to 10 since Saturday. The U.S. ambassador urged dialogue among political parties to de-escalate violence, but Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina dismissed talks with the opposition. The blockade, joined by Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and other opposition parties, protests violence from dueling rallies in Dhaka. The opposition demands Hasina and the Awami League step down for a neutral caretaker government ahead of the January election. The UN and Amnesty International called for an end to violence and respect for peaceful protests, while the Home Minister defended police actions.

Analysts warn of potential violence at a massive opposition rally planned by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in Dhaka, demanding the government step aside for upcoming elections. The ruling Awami League has planned a counter-rally and threatened a hardline stance. Historical references to past violence and recent arrests of BNP members by police have heightened tensions. Calls for peaceful solutions from civil society groups contrast with the aggressive rhetoric from political leaders, indicating a volatile situation ahead of the rallies.

Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh are urging donor nations to increase food aid as the World Food Program has reduced allocations due to unmet funding. U.S. State Department official Afreen Akhter visited the camps and acknowledged the dire conditions, emphasizing the U.S.'s significant contributions. The U.N. refugee agency's chief, Filippo Grandi, called for renewed pledges from donor nations, highlighting the critical need for continuous humanitarian assistance. The British government committed $5.5 million in new support, but overall contributions remain insufficient.

Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and opposition leader, is at imminent risk of death due to cirrhosis of the liver and other illnesses, according to her medical team. Despite her critical condition, the government has denied her permission to seek medical treatment abroad. Zia's party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, has been protesting for a neutral caretaker government to oversee the next general election, alleging that the ruling Awami League, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has manipulated past elections. A U.S. delegation is in Bangladesh to assess pre-election conditions amid concerns over the country's electoral climate and human rights record.

Bangladeshi opposition leader Khaleda Zia, suffering from severe health issues including liver cirrhosis, faces a high risk of death if not allowed to seek advanced medical treatment abroad. Despite her critical condition, the ruling Awami League, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has refused to permit her travel, citing her corruption convictions. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has staged protests demanding a neutral caretaker government for upcoming elections, but the Awami League remains unyielding. A visiting U.S. delegation has been briefed on the situation, highlighting concerns over fair elections and human rights under Hasina's government.

Nearly two-thirds of Rohingya respondents report that movement in Bangladesh refugee camps is more difficult than in Myanmar, according to a study by the Youth Congress Rohingya. The report blames the Armed Police Battalion for enforcing restrictive measures and abuses. Bangladesh's Home Minister defends the actions, citing security concerns. The study highlights issues such as extortion, corruption, and violence in the camps, and concludes with 39 recommendations for the Bangladesh government, international community, and humanitarian organizations to improve conditions and protect the rights of Rohingya refugees.

A Bangladesh court sentenced Adilur Rahman Khan and A.S.M. Nasiruddin Elan, leaders of the human rights group Odhikar, to two years in prison for violating a defunct internet law. The verdict has drawn widespread condemnation from international and local rights organizations, including the European Parliament and the United Nations, who call for their immediate release. The case, which has been pending for a decade, gained momentum following U.S. sanctions against the Rapid Action Battalion. The ruling is seen as a significant blow to human rights advocacy in Bangladesh, with concerns about its chilling effect on civil society.

The Bangladesh Parliament passed a new Cyber Security Bill to replace the controversial Digital Security Act (DSA), but critics argue it retains many restrictive provisions and negatively impacts freedom of expression. The new law reduces some penalties but still grants extensive powers to the police, leading to concerns about human rights violations. Critics, including human rights groups and political figures, claim the law will continue to suppress dissent and free thought, especially ahead of the upcoming general election.

A Bangladeshi student in the U.S. claims his mother was arrested in Bangladesh in retaliation for his Facebook post criticizing the war crimes trial of an influential Islamic preacher. Police deny the arrest was related to the post, stating she was detained for attending a meeting plotting an escape for Jamaat-e-Islami leaders. The arrest has sparked criticism and allegations of human rights violations, with many believing it was an act of political persecution.

One person was killed and approximately 200 were injured in clashes between Bangladesh's ruling Awami League and the opposition BNP during anti-government protests across various cities. The violence, which is the worst in recent months, comes ahead of the general election expected at the end of 2023 or early 2024. The BNP accuses the Awami League of attacking its supporters and rigging polls, while the Awami League denies responsibility for the death and injuries. International bodies like the UN and the US State Department have expressed concern and called for free, fair elections and investigations into violence. A case was also filed over an attack on independent candidate Ashraful Alam, with several arrests made.

Bangladesh is criticized by Human Rights Watch for failing to protect Rohingya refugees from increasing violence in camps near the Myanmar border. The report alleges that Bangladeshi authorities force refugees to act as informants, making them vulnerable to attacks by armed and criminal groups. The Bangladesh government and security officials acknowledge the challenges but deny the allegations. The report documents numerous cases of violence and highlights the difficulties refugees face in seeking justice.

Bangladesh is criticized by Human Rights Watch for failing to protect Rohingya refugees from increasing violence in camps near the Myanmar border. The report alleges that Bangladeshi authorities force refugees to act as informants, putting them at risk. The Bangladesh government and security officials acknowledge the challenges but deny the allegations. HRW documents cases of violence and highlights the difficulties refugees face in seeking justice. Government and police officials defend their efforts but admit the complexity of ensuring security in densely populated camps.

At least five members of rival Rohingya militant groups were killed in a gunfight at a refugee camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. The violence involved the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army and the Rohingya Solidarity Organization, highlighting the deteriorating security situation in the camps. International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan called for increased humanitarian support, noting that food aid cuts have left many Rohingya missing meals. The ICC and the International Court of Justice are investigating alleged crimes against humanity and genocide committed by Myanmar's military against the Rohingya.

At least five members of rival Rohingya militant groups were killed in a gunfight at a refugee camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. The violence between the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army and Rohingya Solidarity Organization highlights the deteriorating security situation in the camps. International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan urged for increased humanitarian support, noting that food aid cuts have left many Rohingya missing meals. The ICC and International Court of Justice are investigating alleged crimes against humanity committed by Myanmar's military against the Rohingya.

At least five members of rival Rohingya militant groups, ARSA and RSO, were killed in a gunfight at a refugee camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. The violence underscores the deteriorating security in the camps, which house around 1 million Rohingya refugees. ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan, after visiting the camps, called for increased humanitarian support as the U.N. World Food Program had cut aid, leading to missed meals for the refugees. The camps have seen a rise in criminal activities amid uncertainty over repatriation to Myanmar. The ICC and ICJ are conducting separate investigations into alleged crimes against humanity and genocide by Myanmar's military against the Rohingya.

At least five members of rival Rohingya militant groups were killed in a gunfight at a refugee camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. The conflict involved the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army and the Rohingya Solidarity Organization, highlighting the deteriorating security situation in the camps. International Criminal Court Chief Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan urged for increased humanitarian support, noting that Rohingya refugees are missing meals due to reduced aid from the World Food Program. The densely populated camps house about 1 million Rohingya, many of whom fled Myanmar following military offensives. The ongoing violence and reduced food allocations have exacerbated the hardships faced by the refugees.

Bangladesh is experiencing a significant rise in dengue cases and deaths, with 9,193 cases and 56 deaths reported since the start of 2023. The situation is particularly severe in the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, where poor sanitation and overcrowding have led to high infection rates. Health officials have distributed mosquito nets and are taking measures to control the mosquito population. Experts and residents express concerns about the escalating situation, especially with the onset of the monsoon season.

Bangladesh is experiencing a significant increase in dengue cases and deaths, with a notable impact on Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar. Health officials report over 9,000 cases and 56 deaths nationwide since the start of 2023. In the Rohingya camps, poor sanitary conditions and overcrowding have exacerbated the outbreak, with over 1,500 infections and three deaths reported among the refugees. Efforts to combat the spread include distributing mosquito nets and cleaning drains, but challenges remain. The situation is expected to worsen during the monsoon season.

Bangladesh's Anti-Corruption Commission charged 146 individuals, including former BASIC Bank Chairman Sheikh Abdul Hye Bachchu, for embezzling $209 million. Bachchu, who is linked to the ruling Awami League, was charged after a decade-long investigation and criticism of the ACC for not investigating him despite over 50 cases. The embezzlement occurred between 2009 and 2013, with loans issued for fake institutions and non-existent mortgages. The High Court had given the ACC three months to complete the investigation, expressing disappointment over previous delays. Transparency International Bangladesh welcomed the filing of the charge sheet.

Bangladesh's Anti-Corruption Commission has charged 146 individuals, including former BASIC Bank chairman Sheikh Abdul Hye Bachchu, in a decade-old embezzlement case involving $209 million. The charges mark the first time Bachchu has been formally implicated in the fraud, despite longstanding allegations and over 50 cases against him. The investigation revealed that loans were issued to fake institutions without board members' knowledge. The High Court had previously criticized the ACC for delays in the investigation. Transparency International Bangladesh welcomed the development but called for further scrutiny of other board members.

Violence erupted in Bangladesh as the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) staged protests against electricity cuts amid a severe heat wave. Clashes between BNP supporters and the ruling Awami League resulted in dozens of injuries. The protests, which took place in multiple districts including Dhaka, were part of a broader campaign against power outages and alleged corruption in the energy sector. The BNP accused the Awami League of oppressive tactics, while the government and police denied obstructing the protests. The unrest comes ahead of a general election scheduled for late 2023 or early 2024.

Bangladesh’s High Court has ordered Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus to pay $1.2 million in taxes for charitable donations, amidst allegations of political vendetta by the Sheikh Hasina government. The court rejected Yunus' petitions for tax exemption on donations to three charitable trusts. This decision follows a lawsuit by the anti-graft watchdog accusing Yunus of embezzling over $2 million from Grameen Telecom's employees' welfare fund. Yunus, who faces numerous legal cases, is supported by global figures urging the government to cease harassment. The U.S. has also announced visa restrictions for Bangladeshis undermining democratic elections.

Bangladesh's High Court has ordered Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus to pay $1.2 million in taxes for charitable donations, amidst allegations of political vendetta by the Sheikh Hasina government. The court's decision follows a lawsuit by the anti-graft watchdog accusing Yunus of embezzling over $2 million from Grameen Telecom's employees' welfare fund. Yunus, who faces numerous legal challenges, is supported by global figures and organizations who criticize the government's actions. The U.S. has also announced visa restrictions for Bangladeshis undermining democratic elections.

Bangladesh's High Court has ordered Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus to pay $1.2 million in taxes for charitable donations, amidst allegations of political vendetta by the Sheikh Hasina government. The court's decision follows a lawsuit by the anti-graft watchdog accusing Yunus of embezzling over $2 million from Grameen Telecom's employees' welfare fund. Yunus, who faces numerous legal cases, is supported by global figures who urge the government to cease harassment. The U.S. has also announced visa restrictions for Bangladeshis undermining democratic elections, signaling international concern over the country's political climate.

Following the U.S. announcement to deny visas to Bangladeshis involved in election tampering, a significant city poll in Bangladesh proceeded peacefully with nearly 50% voter turnout. The Bangladeshi government aligned with the U.S. stance, emphasizing its commitment to fair elections, despite previous criticisms from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The new visa policy aims to ensure democratic processes ahead of the upcoming national elections. The opposition BNP welcomed the U.S. move, seeing it as a step towards credible elections. The policy is expected to impact affluent Bangladeshis with ties to the West.

Following a warning from Washington about denying visas to Bangladeshis interfering with elections, a significant city poll in Gazipur, Bangladesh, occurred peacefully with nearly 50% voter turnout. The U.S. State Department's new visa policy aims to ensure fair elections ahead of Bangladesh's national polls. Bangladesh's government, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League party, has been in power since 2009, with past elections marred by allegations of rigging. The peaceful Gazipur election contrasts with previous instances of violence and intimidation. The opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party welcomed the U.S. policy, seeing it as support for fair elections. The U.S. policy is seen as particularly influential among the affluent and powerful in Bangladesh.

The article discusses the political unrest in Bangladesh, highlighting the violence at opposition BNP's protests, the government's crackdown on political leaders, and the demands for a caretaker administration ahead of elections. It also covers the plight of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, including their appeals for more food aid, prison-like conditions in camps, and the violence they face. The health crisis with deadly dengue outbreaks in Rohingya camps and Bangladeshi cities is mentioned. The article touches on the sentencing of human rights activists, the government's attempt to replace a controversial internet law, and allegations of political vendettas, such as the case against Nobel Laureate Yunus. Additionally, it reports on Bangladesh's drop in the World Press Freedom Index, contrasting with improvements in neighboring countries.

Bangladeshi authorities evacuated hundreds of thousands from coastal areas ahead of Cyclone Mocha, but Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar are to remain in camps. The government has prepared cyclone shelters for the general population, while Rohingya will use mosques and community centers within the camps. The cyclone, expected to be the most powerful in two decades, poses severe threats to low-lying areas. Humanitarian organizations have issued warnings about potential flooding and landslides. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina assured preparations are in place, though power and gas shutoffs may occur.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina met with World Bank officials in Washington to seek support for her country's struggling economy during an election year. The visit aimed to demonstrate international backing despite criticism from the West regarding free speech and human rights. Hasina's trip also included visits to Japan and Britain, but notably excluded meetings with U.S. government officials. The World Bank acknowledged Bangladesh's economic progress over the past 50 years but noted current challenges such as inflation, energy shortages, and a balance-of-payments deficit. The bank recently announced $1.25 billion in financing for Bangladesh to support growth and address climate and environmental vulnerabilities. Analysts suggest that Hasina's efforts to secure international legitimacy and financial support are driven by the worsening economic situation and potential political vulnerability ahead of the upcoming elections.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina met with World Bank officials in Washington to seek support for the country's struggling economy amid an election year. Analysts suggest the visit aims to demonstrate international backing despite strained relations with the West over human rights issues. The meeting marks 50 years of Bangladesh-World Bank relations, with Hasina emphasizing the need for poverty alleviation and development financing. The economic situation in Bangladesh is dire, with rising inflation, energy shortages, and a balance-of-payments deficit. The World Bank recently announced $1.25 billion in financing for Bangladesh to support sustainable growth and economic stability.

Bangladesh will repay a $318 million loan to Russian state-owned firm Rosatom for the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant using the Chinese yuan, due to sanctions preventing dollar transactions. The decision, made in agreement with Moscow, allows construction to continue, with over 90% of the project completed. Despite challenges, including U.S. sanctions affecting Russian ship entries, Bangladesh maintains strong ties with Russia, dating back to its independence supported by the Soviet Union. The plant, expected to be ready in mid-2023, is the costliest infrastructure project in Bangladesh and symbolizes the enduring relationship between the two nations.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina criticized the United States in parliament, accusing it of supporting corrupt individuals and attempting to bring an undemocratic party to power in Bangladesh. She also targeted the national daily Prothom Alo and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, alleging corruption. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the importance of free and fair elections in Bangladesh during a meeting with Bangladesh's top diplomat. The article highlights a significant communication gap between Washington and Dhaka, with implications for future diplomatic relations.

Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina criticized the United States in parliament, suggesting Washington aims to install an undemocratic government in Bangladesh and supports corrupt individuals. Her comments coincided with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's meeting with Bangladeshi Foreign Minister A. K. Abdul Momen, where Blinken emphasized the importance of free and fair elections. Hasina also targeted the national daily Prothom Alo, calling it an enemy of the people, and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, questioning his financial integrity. The article includes responses from Prothom Alo and mentions international support for Yunus.

The Bangladesh ruling party's student wing, Bangladesh Chhatra League, faces increased scrutiny for its involvement in violent incidents on university campuses. Despite claims from Awami League leaders that disciplinary actions are taken, critics argue that a culture of impunity prevails. Historical context shows a shift in student politics from contributing to the freedom struggle to mirroring national party politics. Recent incidents, including assaults and extortion, have intensified concerns, with calls for justice and accountability from academics and other stakeholders.

The student wing of Bangladesh's ruling Awami League, the Bangladesh Chhatra League, faces increased scrutiny over escalating violence on university campuses. Despite claims of disciplinary actions by party leaders, critics argue that a culture of impunity prevails. Historical context shows the significant role of student politics in Bangladesh's political landscape, but recent incidents, including assaults, extortion, and abductions, have tarnished its image. High-profile cases like the death of Abrar Fahad have sparked national outrage, yet accountability remains inconsistent. Calls for justice and accountability continue to grow amid concerns about the ruling party's authoritarian tendencies.

The Bangladesh Chhatra League, the student wing of the ruling Awami League, is facing scrutiny for its members' involvement in violent incidents on university campuses. The High Court ordered the expulsion of five students accused of assault, highlighting a culture of impunity. Despite the Awami League's insistence on disciplining members, critics argue that the Chhatra League often targets dissenters with the government's tacit approval. Historical context is provided, showing the Chhatra League's role in the independence movement and its subsequent dominance in student politics. Recent violent events and the lack of accountability for past crimes are discussed, with calls for justice from academics.

Forty global public figures, including Ban Ki-Moon and Bono, have urged Bangladesh to cease harassment of Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, who faces allegations of money laundering and embezzlement. The open letter highlights concerns for Yunus' well-being and his contributions to humanitarian efforts. The Bangladesh Anti-Corruption Commission's investigation into Yunus began in July 2022, amid longstanding government hostility. Critics argue that the government increasingly targets its opponents, drawing international attention. Yunus' representatives maintain the case is sub judice, while the ACC asserts the law applies equally to all.

International press groups are condemning the shutdown of Dainik Dinkal, a Bengali-language daily run by the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party, citing it as a sign of the government's tightening grip on the media. The government claims the shutdown is due to the publisher's criminal conviction and violations of publishing laws. Human rights groups and Western governments have expressed concern about the shrinking space for free speech ahead of the upcoming general election. The Media Freedom Coalition and the Committee to Protect Journalists have criticized the move, calling it an attack on media freedom. The newspaper, which had a circulation of about 3,000, stopped publication on February 20 after an appeal against the shutdown was rejected.

Russia has expressed serious concern to Bangladesh over the latter's decision to ban U.S.-sanctioned Russian ships from its ports, which could negatively impact bilateral cooperation. The Bangladesh envoy to Moscow was summoned by the Russian Foreign Ministry to discuss the issue. Bangladesh's ban affects nearly 70 Russian ships, including one carrying goods for the Rooppur nuclear power plant, a major project being constructed by Russia's Rosatom. The situation places Bangladesh in a challenging position to maintain balanced relations with both the U.S. and Russia. Bangladesh's Foreign Ministry confirmed the envoy's summoning and plans to analyze the discussions.

Indian tax officials raided BBC offices following a critical documentary about Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sparking outrage among South Asian media freedom advocates. Critics argue that neutral institutions like the Income Tax Department are being used to stifle dissent in India, which is currently the G20 president. The documentary, 'India: The Modi Question,' examines Modi's role in the 2002 Gujarat riots and the treatment of Muslims under his administration. The raid has drawn comparisons to previous actions against NGOs and has raised concerns about media freedom in other countries like Bangladesh, where similar repressive measures have been observed.

Bangladesh's health department began shutting down over 700 unlicensed medical facilities following an order from the new health minister, Samanta Lal Sen, after a child's death during a medical procedure. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) is executing the closures, with a High Court directive to list authorized facilities. As of January 31, numerous hospitals, diagnostic centers, and blood banks have been closed, particularly in the Khulna division. Stakeholders like the Bangladesh Health Rights Movement and the Bangladesh Private Clinic and Diagnostic Owners Association have called for regular monitoring instead of sporadic raids.

Bangladesh aims to maintain good relations with both the US and China, despite the challenge of balancing between the two superpowers. Foreign Minister A. K. Abdul Momen emphasized the country's commitment to a balanced foreign policy and the one-China principle. The visit of new Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang to Dhaka highlights the ongoing geopolitical competition between the US and China in the region. Bangladesh faces tensions with both nations, including US sanctions on its elite security unit and China's warnings about aligning with the Quad alliance. The country seeks to leverage its relationships with both powers for economic development while navigating complex diplomatic dynamics.

Bangladesh aims to maintain good relations with both the U.S. and China, despite the challenge of balancing between the two superpowers. Foreign Minister A. K. Abdul Momen emphasized the country's commitment to a balanced foreign policy and the one-China principle. The visit of new Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang to Dhaka highlights the ongoing geopolitical competition in the region. The U.S. has recently sanctioned Bangladesh's elite security unit over human rights concerns, adding to the complexity of Dhaka's diplomatic relations. Bangladesh's strategic importance in the Indo-Pacific region makes it a focal point for both U.S. and Chinese influence.

Top Bangladeshi opposition leaders Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Mirza Abbas were released on bail after a month in jail, vowing to continue their movement against the ruling Awami League. They were arrested on charges of inciting violence during a protest. The opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has been demanding a neutral caretaker government for the upcoming general elections. The arrests have reportedly strengthened the party's resolve and popularity. The High Court granted bail, a decision upheld by the Supreme Court, leading to their release.

Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh camps express that the UN's World Food Program's increase in monthly food provisions from $8 to $10 per person is insufficient, failing to compensate for past cutbacks from $12 and not addressing the lack of protein and nutritious food. The reduction in aid has led to increased malnutrition and forced refugees to seek work outside the camps, sometimes resulting in injury or involvement in criminal activities. The international community's focus on other global events has led to a funding shortfall for the WFP, and experts warn that without adequate rations, refugees will continue to risk dangerous journeys to other countries.

Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh camps find the UN's World Food Program's increase in monthly food provisions from $8 to $10 per person insufficient, failing to compensate for past cutbacks from $12 and not addressing the lack of protein and nutritious food. The WFP's funding shortfall, exacerbated by global attention shifts to the Russia-Ukraine war and Gaza, has led to severe consequences, including increased malnutrition and refugees seeking work outside the camps despite restrictions. The situation is driving some Rohingya to join gangs or undertake dangerous migrations, with fears that violence in the camps will escalate if food aid is not fully restored.

Bangladesh blocked the Russian cargo ship Ursa Major from docking at Mongla port due to U.S. sanctions related to Russia's war in Ukraine. The ship, carrying goods for Bangladesh's first nuclear power plant, will have its cargo transferred by another vessel. The decision marks Bangladesh's first direct action against Russia since the invasion of Ukraine. The U.S. Embassy informed Bangladesh about the sanctions, leading to the denial of entry. Russian authorities expressed dissatisfaction, while Bangladeshi officials assured that the project would not be affected.

Bangladesh denied docking permission to the Russian ship Ursa Major, also known as Sparta III, which was sanctioned by the United States due to Russia's war in Ukraine. The ship, carrying cargo for Bangladesh's first nuclear power plant being built by Rosatom, was scheduled to arrive at Mongla port on December 24. The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka had informed the Bangladeshi government of the sanctions, leading to the decision to block the ship. The cargo will be transferred to land via another vessel, and the Russian government has been informed of the error in using a sanctioned ship. Bangladesh's action represents its first direct response to Moscow since the invasion of Ukraine began.

Bangladesh blocked the Russian cargo ship Ursa Major from docking at Mongla port due to US sanctions related to Russia's war in Ukraine. The ship was carrying goods for Bangladesh's first nuclear power plant, which Russia is constructing. The cargo will be transferred via another vessel to avoid project delays. The US Embassy informed Bangladesh about the sanctions, leading to the decision. The Russian government expressed dissatisfaction, and efforts are underway to resolve the issue.

Tensions between the U.S. and Bangladesh escalated after American ambassador Peter Haas's visit to the family of a missing opposition politician was cut short due to security concerns. The visit coincided with the 51st anniversary of Martyred Intellectuals Day, leading to criticism from the ruling Awami League party and pro-Awami organizations for not visiting a memorial site. The U.S. Embassy emphasized human rights as a central aspect of foreign policy. The incident follows U.S. sanctions imposed on leaders of Bangladesh's Rapid Action Battalion for alleged human rights abuses. Despite the controversy, Bangladesh's Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen downplayed the incident's impact on U.S.-Bangladesh relations.

Bangladesh has arrested two senior opposition leaders ahead of a major anti-government rally in Dhaka, following political violence that prompted a statement from the White House. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has been staging mass protests demanding the Awami League government step down before the next general election. The rally, expected to draw hundreds of thousands, will take place at a sports field after a standoff over the venue. The U.S. has urged Bangladesh to investigate the violence impartially. The BNP's rally coincides with Human Rights Day and the anniversary of U.S. sanctions on the Rapid Action Battalion, highlighting concerns over political violence and human rights abuses in Bangladesh.

Two dozen Rohingya refugees have departed from Bangladesh to the United States as part of a resettlement program coordinated by the U.S. government and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. This marks the beginning of a process that will see more Rohingya relocated to the U.S. in the future. The initiative aims to alleviate the pressure on Bangladesh, which hosts over 1 million Rohingya refugees. U.S. officials have confirmed their commitment to welcoming refugees, with plans to accept up to 800 Rohingya annually. Despite this, concerns remain about the long-term solution for the Rohingya, with some leaders emphasizing the need for repatriation to Myanmar.

Violence erupted in Dhaka as police clashed with Bangladesh Nationalist Party supporters, resulting in one death and multiple injuries. The confrontation occurred ahead of a planned major rally by the BNP demanding a caretaker government for the next general election. The government has refused this demand, and police have suggested relocating the rally to a safer venue. The BNP has accused the ruling Awami League of vote tampering in the previous election. The US Embassy and UN have expressed concerns about the potential for violence and the political climate in Bangladesh.

Authorities in Bangladesh are searching for two Muslim extremists, Abu Siddique Sohel and Mainul Islam, who escaped police custody with the help of men on motorcycles. The fugitives, sentenced to death for the 2015 killings of secular writer Avijit Roy and publisher Faisal Arefin Dipan, were aided by attackers who used pepper spray on police officers. A nationwide alert and a reward for information have been issued. The two men belong to Ansar al-Islam, a militant group linked to al-Qaeda, responsible for a series of murders targeting secular intellectuals in Bangladesh.

Senior officials from Bangladesh's government are warning foreign ambassadors not to interfere in the nation's politics by commenting on the integrity of upcoming elections. Envoys from countries like Japan, the United States, and Britain have called for free and fair elections, prompting criticism from Bangladeshi ministers. The government summoned the Japanese ambassador over comments about past election irregularities, emphasizing that diplomats should respect local laws and not meddle in domestic affairs. The opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party has been demanding a neutral caretaker administration for the elections, which the government has refused. The situation has drawn international attention, with various diplomats and officials expressing hopes for a fair electoral process.