United News of Bangladesh

US Assistant Secretary S. Paul Kapur will arrive in Dhaka on Tuesday on a two-day visit to ‘strengthen strategic ties’ between Bangladesh and the United States. During his visit, Assistant Secretary Kapur will meet with new government officials and business leaders to discuss expanding bilateral trade and investment, enhancing security cooperation, and advancing shared interests in the Indo-Pacific region, said U.S. Mission Spokesperson Poornima Rai on Monday. The United States looks forward to working with the newly elected government to advance prosperity and the security of the region. Paul Kapur was sworn in as Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs on October 22, 2025. He is currently visiting New Delhi, India (March 1-3) to discuss regional security and shared priorities in the Indo-Pacific. Assistant Secretary Kapur’s visit builds upon recent momentum to advance President Trump’s vision for robust and mutually beneficial U.S.-India partnership. US President Donald J. Trump has recently congratulated Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on his assumption of office and expressed hope for stronger defence cooperation between the two countries. In his message to Tarique Rahman last month, President Trump said he expects the new Prime Minister to take decisive steps to complete the routine defence agreements that would enable Bangladesh’s military to access high-end American-made equipment, which he described as the best in the world. “I look forward to working with you to make the relationship between the United States and Bangladesh stronger than ever before,” he said in a letter to PM Tarique, shared by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Indonesian envoy highlights strong relations between Dhaka and Jakarta President Trump said the partnership between the two countries is based on mutual respect and a shared interest in fostering a free and open Indo-Pacific where strong, sovereign nations can prosper. “As you begin your term, I hope you will help me maintain the tremendous momentum in our trade relationship through the implementation of our Agreement on Reciprocal Trade, which benefits farmers and workers in both of our countries,” he said. President Trump said his Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent Christensen, has my full confidence. “Together, we have an opportunity to make both of our nations more prosperous and secure.”

Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Bangladesh Listyowati, who uses just one name, has highlighted the strong and longstanding diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Indonesia, with cooperation continuing to grow across various sectors, particularly in trade and economic engagement. She appreciated what have been done by the Indonesia-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industries (IBCCI) and emphasised its important role in connecting the business communities of both countries and encouraging greater private-sector collaboration. The Ambassador made the remarks while attending an Iftar gathering organised by the Indonesia-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industries (IBCCI) on Sunday. The event was officially opened by the current President of IBCCI Mohammed Riyadh Ali and was also attended by State Minister of Finance and Planning Zonayed Saki, along with prominent business leaders and members of the diplomatic corps. The Ambassador also conveyed Indonesia’s role this year as Chair of the Developing-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation (D-8) and informed participants about the upcoming D-8 Summit in April, including the organization of the D-8 Halal Expo. Bangladesh is an active and important member of the D-8, and she encouraged Bangladeshi businesses to actively participate in these events to further strengthen trade, investment, and economic partnerships between the two nations. The Iftar gathering concluded in a warm and cordial atmosphere, reflecting the spirit of friendship and cooperation between Indonesia and Bangladesh. Ambassador Listyowati arrived in Dhaka on 17 January 2026 and presented the credentials to the President of Bangladesh on 22 January 2026.

Amid the growing tensions in the Middle East, Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman on Monday reaffirmed that Bangladesh’s position remains unequivocal, with the protection of its citizens and national interests as the foremost priority. “If our citizens are affected, we will stand firmly beside them. We do not believe war or conflict offers any solution. Our greatest national interest is our people. We hope no Bangladeshi will lose life or suffer injury. We seek a peaceful resolution as soon as possible through dialogue and diplomacy,” he told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs after an inter-ministerial meeting on the evolving situation in the Middle East. The Foreign Minister said necessary measures are being taken to ensure that Bangladeshis currently stranded in the country can travel smoothly to their respective destinations for employment once flight operations resume. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed said the government remains in close contact with the families of the two Bangladeshi nationals who lost their lives. Arrangements are underway to repatriate their bodies once conditions stabilise. She also reiterated that steps are being taken to facilitate the departure of stranded workers as soon as the situation normalises. Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir emphasised that the government will do everything possible to safeguard the welfare and security of Bangladeshi citizens amid the ongoing crisis. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, he said all relevant issues were thoroughly reviewed. “They (Bangladesh nationals) are our utmost priority,” he said, underscoring the government’s full commitment to their protection and well-being. Kobir also called for de-escalation and urged all parties to pursue diplomacy. Dhaka saddened over assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhhury, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat, State Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Md Nurul Hoque, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam, and representatives from Biman Bangladesh Airlines and other relevant departments were present at the meeting. Two Bangladeshi nationals have lost their lives and seven others have sustained injuries due to missile and drone attacks in different parts of the Middle East. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared the updates on Monday, stating that the government of Bangladesh is ‘deeply saddened’. In the United Arab Emirates, Saleh Ahmed, a Bangladeshi national from Baralekha, Sylhet, tragically lost his life in Ajman after being struck by debris resulting from an aerial attack on a civilian installation. The Embassy of Bangladesh in the United Arab Emirates is in close contact with the local authorities regarding the matter and is extending necessary assistance to repatriate the mortal remains once commercial flights resume, said the ministry. It has been reported that one Bangladeshi national has been killed and three more have been injured in Bahrain. Bangladesh Mission in Manama is in touch with the local authorities regarding the incident. In the State of Kuwait, four Bangladeshi nationals, Aminul Islam from Nabinagar, Brahmanbaria; Rabiul Islam from Sathia, Pabna; Masudur Rahman from Begumganj, Noakhali; and Dulal Miah from Chandina, Cumilla, sustained injuries following a drone attack in the vicinity of the civilian airport. Japan provides $1.4m to support 36,000 Rohingya children in Bangladesh They have received necessary medical treatment and are currently reported to be in stable condition. The Embassy of Bangladesh in Kuwait remains in regular contact with them and the Ambassador personally visited them at the hospital, said the Ministry. Separately, the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation vessel Banglar Joyjatra is currently stranded at Jebel Ali Port in the United Arab Emirates. The Embassy is maintaining close communication with the vessel's captain. All crew members are reported to be safe. The government of Bangladesh reiterated its deep concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East and continues to monitor developments closely.

Two Bangladeshi nationals have lost their lives and seven others have sustained injuries due to missile and drone attacks in different parts of the Middle East. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shared the updates on Monday, stating that the government of Bangladesh is ‘deeply saddened’. In the United Arab Emirates, Saleh Ahmed, a Bangladeshi national from Baralekha, Sylhet, tragically lost his life in Ajman after being struck by debris resulting from an aerial attack on a civilian installation. The Embassy of Bangladesh in the United Arab Emirates is in close contact with the local authorities regarding the matter and is extending necessary assistance to repatriate the mortal remains once commercial flights resume, said the ministry. It has been reported that one Bangladeshi national has been killed and three more have been injured in Bahrain. Tehran refuses negotiations; Israeli air strikes kill 31 in Lebanon Bangladesh Mission in Manama is in touch with the local authorities regarding the incident. In the State of Kuwait, four Bangladeshi nationals, Aminul Islam from Nabinagar, Brahmanbaria; Rabiul Islam from Sathia, Pabna; Masudur Rahman from Begumganj, Noakhali; and Dulal Miah from Chandina, Cumilla, sustained injuries following a drone attack in the vicinity of the civilian airport. They have received necessary medical treatment and are currently reported to be in stable condition. The Embassy of Bangladesh in Kuwait remains in regular contact with them and the Ambassador personally visited them at the hospital, said the Ministry. Separately, the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation vessel Banglar Joyjatra is currently stranded at Jebel Ali Port in the United Arab Emirates. The Embassy is maintaining close communication with the vessel's captain. All crew members are reported to be safe. The government of Bangladesh reiterated its deep concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East and continues to monitor developments closely.  

Expressing deep sorrow over the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a targeted attack, Bangladesh on Monday said ensuring the safety and security of more than six million Bangladeshis living in the Middle East remains its top priority. "Our embassies in the countries concerned have been asked to issue appropriate advisories for our nationals to remain vigilant and strictly follow the guidance issued by the respective host governments," said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. PM consults experts to overhaul Dhaka's traffic system Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman sat in a meeting in the afternoon to discuss the situation in the Middle East as Bangladesh continues to be 'deeply concerned' at the safety and security of Bangladeshi nationals, a senior official told UNB. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam and representatives from the relevant Ministries are attending the meeting. The Foreign Minister is scheduled to brief the media at 4:30pm today. Meanwhile, the MoFA in a statement said the government is "saddened to learn" that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was assassinated in a targeted attack which is a violation of international law and norms. Bangladesh extended heartfelt condolences to the brotherly people of Iran. "Bangladesh believes that conflict brings no solution and only dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to the international law can resolve disputes," MoFA said The government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh is "deeply saddened" to inform that two Bangladeshi nationals have lost their lives and seven others have sustained injuries due to missile and drone attacks in different parts of the Middle East. In the United Arab Emirates, Saleh Ahmed, a Bangladeshi national from Baralekha, Sylhet, tragically lost his life in Ajman after being struck by debris resulting from an aerial attack on a civilian installation. The Embassy of Bangladesh in the United Arab Emirates is in close contact with the local authorities regarding the matter and is extending necessary assistance to repatriate the mortal remains once commercial flights resume. It has been reported that one Bangladeshi national has been killed and three more have been injured in Bahrain. Bangladesh Mission in Manama is in touch with the local authorities regarding the incident. In the State of Kuwait, four Bangladeshi nationals, Aminul Islam from Nabinagar, Brahmanbaria; Rabiul Islam from Sathia, Pabna; Masudur Rahman from Begumganj, Noakhali; and Dulal Miah from Chandina, Cumilla, sustained injuries following a drone attack in the vicinity of the civilian airport. They have received necessary medical treatment and are currently reported to be in stable condition. The Embassy of Bangladesh in Kuwait remains in regular contact with them and the Ambassador personally visited them at the hospital. Separately, the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation vessel Banglar Joyjatra is currently stranded at Jebel Ali Port in the United Arab Emirates. The Embassy is maintaining close communication with the vessel's captain. All crew members are reported to be safe. The government of Bangladesh reiterates its deep concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East and continues to monitor developments closely.  

Japan has signed a new agreement with Unicef, providing $1.4 million to deliver life-saving support to Rohingya refugee children and their families in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char. The funding will benefit more than 56,500 refugees, including over 36,000 children, through critical services in education, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), nutrition and health, Unicef said in a press release on Monday. The agreement was signed by Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi and Unicef Representative in Bangladesh Rana Flowers in Dhaka. Ambassador Saida said the new assistance comes at a time of declining global humanitarian funding. “I am pleased to announce Japan's new agreement with Unicef, especially amid declining global funding. This aid focuses on critical services like education, WASH, nutrition and health, reflecting Japan's long-standing partnership with Unicef and our strong commitment to human security,” she said. He hoped that the support would enhance resilience and dignity of both Rohingya refugees and host communities, reaffirming Japan’s commitment to the humanitarian response. Now entering its ninth year, the Rohingya crisis remains one of the world’s largest and most protracted humanitarian situations. Overcrowded camps, disease outbreaks, malnutrition and limited access to learning spaces continue to put children at significant risk. Rana Flowers said Rohingya children face daily risks ranging from disease and malnutrition to disrupted education. “The support from the Government of Japan will help keep children healthy and in learning, promote skill-building pathways and equip families to better care for their youngest children,” she said, describing the partnership as a vital investment in children’s survival, dignity and future. Under the agreement, Unicef will expand access to the Myanmar Curriculum on Bhasan Char and support formal education and skills training for adolescents in Cox’s Bazar. The partnership will also strengthen safe water supply systems and sanitation facilities to reduce outbreaks of cholera, dengue and other diseases. Hygiene supplies, including soap and menstrual hygiene materials, will be distributed to households to support public health and gender equity. Rohingya man held with 'Yaba pills' in Bandarban Aligned with Japan’s global advocacy for universal health coverage, the support will scale up services to prevent and treat child malnutrition and improve maternal and newborn health care, including services at the Newborn Stabilisation Unit on Bhasan Char and primary health centres in Cox’s Bazar. Since the start of the Rohingya emergency in August 2017, Japan has contributed over $250 million to UN agencies and NGOs in Bangladesh for the refugee response, including around $47 million through Unicef to support Rohingya children and families.

The Bangladesh Embassy in Abu Dhabi will remain open on Monday, but Bangladeshi citizens have been urged to prioritise their safety and stay in secure locations amid the prevailing situation. In a message issued on Sunday night, the Embassy of Bangladesh in the United Arab Emirates requested expatriate Bangladeshis to avoid visiting the embassy unless it is absolutely necessary for urgent matters. “Please rest assured that the government of Bangladesh and the Embassy stand firmly by your side, and the UAE government remains fully committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. Stay safe and remain informed,” the message said. Bangladesh Ambassador to the UAE Tareq Ahmed also echoed the call, urging Bangladeshi nationals to remain cautious and follow local advisories.

Three people, including a Bangladeshi national, were killed and 58 others injured in the United Arab Emirates since the launch of Iranian attacks on February 28, the UAE Ministry of Defence said on Sunday. The casualties include individuals of Emirati, Egyptian, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese and Afghan nationalities. According to the ministry, the country’s air force and air defence systems have intercepted 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles and 541 Iranian drones since the beginning of the assault on February 28, 2026. On the second day of the attack, armed forces shot down 20 ballistic missiles, while eight others fell into the sea. Two cruise missiles and 311 drones were also destroyed, although 21 drones managed to hit civilian sites, demonstrating what the ministry described as the armed forces’ ability to counter multiple threats. Since the start of hostilities, 165 ballistic missiles launched from Iran were detected, of which 152 were intercepted and 13 fell into the sea. Both cruise missiles identified were successfully destroyed, reports Gulf News. Out of 541 drones tracked, 506 were intercepted, while 35 landed within the country, resulting in material damage. The ministry said falling debris from intercepted missiles and drones caused minor to moderate damage to several civilian properties in different parts of the country. Reaffirming its readiness, the ministry said the armed forces remain fully prepared to confront any threat, adding that ensuring the safety of citizens, residents and visitors remains its top priority. The authorities also urged the public to rely on official sources for information and refrain from spreading rumours or unverified reports.

Bangladesh on Sunday condemned the violation of sovereignty of some countries, including Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Bangladesh hopes that calm will prevail at the earliest, and peace, security and stability will be restored soonest across the region, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In the wake of attacks on Iran, Bangladesh continues to be 'deeply concerned' at the safety and security of Bangladeshi nationals residing in this country. Khamenei’s death: Who will be Iran’s next supreme leader? Bangladesh warned that the continuation of hostilities will only endanger regional peace, stability and the wellbeing of civilian populations. Bangladesh called upon all concerned parties to exercise maximum restraint and return to diplomacy to resolve the differences.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Sunday said he has urged Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh to take necessary measures to ensure that the incidents of ‘border killings’ do not happen in the future. “I told the Indian High Commissioner that we do not want to hear about any more border killings. The BGB and BSF should continue holding meetings on this issue and avoid such incidents as much as possible,” he said. He made the remarks while talking to reporters at the Home Ministry after a meeting with Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Kumar Verma at the Secretariat. Responding to a question about the discussions, the minister said border issues were discussed in detail. The Indian side expressed sincerity and assured that necessary instructions would be given to the relevant agencies, said the home Minister. When asked about Indian tourist visas, Salahuddin said Indian consulates and visa offices had come under attacks over the past one and a half years, which hampered full-scale visa operations. They have, however, assured that the visa activities will be resumed gradually, he added. The minister said the Indian High Commissioner paid a courtesy call as part of ongoing diplomatic engagements following the formation of a new government. “As neighbouring countries, we have trade and business relations with India. The High Commissioner also discussed security aspects,” he said. Besides, Bangladesh sought cooperation from India on the basis of mutual interest, dignity and benefit, he added. “We will maintain our relations. We expect India to uphold the relationship on the basis of sovereign equality and mutual respect across all areas, including trade, business and diplomacy,” said the minister.