United News of Bangladesh

At least 555 people have been killed across Iran in joint US-Israeli attacks targeting 131 counties so far, according to the Iranian Red Crescent as fighting escalates across the Middle East. Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s National Security Council, rejected claims in US media he has made a renewed push to resume nuclear negotiations with Washington, saying Tehran has not sought fresh talks. Israel said it is striking at the “heart of Tehran” and has launched attacks on Lebanon after Hezbollah fired a barrage of rockets at northern Israel. Lebanon’s Health Ministry said at least 31 people were killed and 149 others wounded in Israeli air attacks. In the Gulf, Kuwait’s Defence Ministry said several US warplanes crashed inside the country, adding that all crew members survived. US President Donald Trump warned that attacks on Iran would continue until all objectives are achieved and vowed to avenge the deaths of three US soldiers. Meanwhile, a fire broke out at Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura oil refinery after debris from two intercepted drones fell on the facility, according to the Saudi Defence Ministry. British Foreign Minister Cooper said a drone that struck a UK military base in Cyprus hit the runway. The US embassy in Bahrain warned that “terrorist groups” are intent on attacking US citizens. A security source told Al Jazeera that a joint Israeli-US missile strike targeted sites belonging to the Iran-backed paramilitary group Kataib Hezbollah in Jurf al-Sakhr, south of the Iraqi capital Baghdad.  

The government is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East, Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Hossain Kaikobad said on Sunday. He made the remarks while meeting passengers stranded at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport due to the escalating tensions in the region. The minister visited the airport to assess the situation, listened to the concerns of stranded passengers and assured them that the government is by their side during this difficult time. The minister said ensuring the safety and welfare of passengers is the government’s priority. He said coordination with relevant authorities is ongoing to facilitate the resumption of travel as soon as the situation stabilises. He urged everyone to remain patient. Several international flights have already been canceled amid rising tensions in the Middle East following attack on Iran by US and Israel . Flights to destinations including Amman, Kuwait, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Bahrain have been suspended, leaving many Umrah pilgrims stranded at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, said a PID handout. Airport authorities and related agencies are working to manage the situation and provide information to passengers.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced a sixth wave of attacks on US and Israeli targets in the Middle East, state media reported. The IRGC said it launched “extensive missile and drone” strikes on 27 US military bases, Israel’s Tel Nof airbase, the Israeli army’s command center at HaKirya in Tel Aviv, and a major defence industrial complex in the city. Iranian forces warned that they would “carry out a different and harsh step of revenge, with successive, regrettable slaps,” signaling more retaliatory operations.

Coordinated military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets have sharply escalated global tensions, triggering widespread concern over the risk of a broader regional conflict. World leaders and neighbouring countries have urged restraint as fears grow that the rapidly intensifying situation could spiral into a wider war. Iranian state media, citing the Red Crescent, on Saturday evening said at least 201 people were killed and more than 700 injured. U.S. President Donald Trump urged the Iranian public to “seize control of your destiny” by rising up against the Islamic leadership that has ruled the nation since 1979. In a video announcing the “major combat operations," Trump told Iranians that “when we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations." Meanwhile, Iran retaliated by firing missiles and drones toward Israel and U.S. military bases in the region, and exchanges of fire continued into the night. Some of the first strikes on Iran appeared to hit near the offices of 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Smoke rose from the capital as part of strikes that Iranian media said occurred nationwide. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told NBC News that Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian are alive “as far as I know,” and called the attack “unprovoked, illegal and absolutely illegitimate.” He also said Iran will continue to exercise its inherent and lawful right of self-defense until the ongoing aggression by the United States and Israel is ceased “fully and unequivocally.” Araghchi made the remarks in a letter to the UN secretary-general and the president of the UN Security Council on Saturday. Besides, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has denounced the United States and the Israeli regime for killing civilians, including dozens of students in a primary school, in their unprovoked attacks on Iranian cities. “The US & Israel launched an egregious, unwarranted act of aggression against Iran by indiscriminately targeting Iranian cities. In just one single case, they targeted a primary school in Minab, Hormozgan Province, killing and maiming tens of innocent young girls,” Baqaei wrote in a post on his X account on Saturday afternoon. Calling the attack on the school “a blatant crime” he said, “The world must stand up to this grave injustice and the UNSC must act now in exercise of its primary responsibility under the Charter.” How world leaders react Global leaders have voiced deep concern following military strikes by Israel and the United States on Iran, and Tehran’s subsequent retaliation, warning of the risk of a wider regional conflict across the Middle East. The United Nations Human Rights Chief, Volker Türk, called for “restraint” and urged all parties to “see reason, to de-escalate, and for a return to the negotiating table.” “I deplore the military strikes across Iran this morning by Israel and the United States of America, and the subsequent retaliatory strikes by Iran,” he said, stressing that civilians ultimately bear the brunt of armed conflict. He reminded those involved that protecting civilians is “paramount” under international law. The European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, described the latest developments as “perilous.” A spokesperson for the Government of the United Kingdom said London does not want to see “further escalation into a wider regional conflict.” The statement emphasised that the immediate priority is the safety of UK nationals in the region, adding that Britain stands ready to protect its interests. Prime Minister Keir Starmer chaired a meeting of the government’s emergency Cobra committee and is expected to hold a series of calls with allies. The BBC reported that the UK was not involved in the US-Israeli strikes. Germany said it had been informed of the attack in advance, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz consulting relevant security ministers. In Rome, the office of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said she had held a conference call with ministers and intelligence chiefs and would consult allies and regional leaders to support efforts aimed at easing tensions. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his country supported the US in acting to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and from continuing to threaten international peace and security. Meanwhile, Russia condemned the US-Israeli strikes, calling them a “reckless move.” The Russian foreign ministry said it was “condemnable” that the attacks were being carried out under what it described as the guise of renewed negotiations, referring to recent US-Iran nuclear talks. Moscow also urged the international community to assess what it termed “irresponsible actions aimed at undermining peace, stability, and security” in the region. As diplomatic activity intensifies, world leaders continue to call for restraint, warning that any further escalation could destabilise an already volatile Middle East. Oil prices poised for volatility amid fears of wider conflict Oil markets, currently closed for the weekend, are expected to see sharp price swings next week as uncertainty lingers over the impact of U.S. and Israeli strikes on Middle East oil supplies. Earlier projections suggested any price spike would be short-lived if oil shipping routes and infrastructure—such as Iranian pipelines and the Kharg Island terminal—remain unaffected. However, disruption to infrastructure or tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz could trigger a sharper and more prolonged surge. Brent crude has already climbed to a seven-month high of $72.87. Iran exports about 1.6 million barrels per day, mostly to China, and any disruption could push Chinese buyers to seek alternative supplies, driving global prices higher. Around 20% of global oil passes daily through the Strait of Hormuz, used heavily by Saudi Arabia, Iraq and the UAE. Analysts say Iran is unlikely to close the strait as it would harm its own exports and key customer China. Pre-conflict forecasts suggested limited strikes could raise prices by $5–$10 on market fears alone, while a broader war disrupting tanker traffic could push crude above $90 per barrel and send U.S. gas prices well above $3 per gallon, from last week’s average of $2.98.   # With input from agencies  

African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on Saturday expressed "deep concern" over the military escalation in the Middle East, warning that further escalation threatens to worsen global instability. In a statement issued Saturday, the chairperson said he is "deeply concerned by the reported military strikes carried out by the United States in coordination with Israeli forces against targets inside Iran, an escalation that marks a serious intensification of hostilities in the Middle East." At least 51 students killed as US-Israel strikes on Iran escalate into regional crisis Calling for restraint, urgent de-escalation and sustained dialogue, Youssouf stressed that all parties must act fully in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard international peace and security. He warned that further escalation threatens to worsen global instability, with serious implications for energy markets, food security and economic resilience, particularly in Africa, where conflict and economic pressures remain acute. The commission chief urged all concerned actors to prioritize diplomatic engagement to prevent a further deterioration and uphold the international rules-based order. Iran’s IRGC chief, defence minister reportedly killed in Israeli strikes "Sustainable peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, not through force," Youssouf said.

At least one person was killed and 11 others injured when Yemeni security forces fired on protesters linked to the Southern Transitional Council (STC) who tried to storm the al-Maashiq Presidential Palace in Aden, an Al Jazeera correspondent reported. The incident occurred Thursday during the first session of Yemen’s internationally recognised government, led by Prime Minister Shaya Mohsen al-Zindani, amid opposition demonstrations. Footage obtained by Al Jazeera showed several wounded individuals at the site. The Aden Governorate Security Committee said security forces responded lawfully to armed protesters attempting acts of sabotage and warned against any attacks on personnel. The STC, backed by the United Arab Emirates, claimed at least 21 people were wounded, condemning the use of live ammunition and calling for an investigation. The group urged the international community to act against “systematic repression” in southern Yemen. Earlier, the STC had controlled Aden and much of southern Yemen until a Saudi-backed government offensive pushed them back in January. On Friday, the STC refused to recognise the new government in Aden, calling it a “de facto authority” without political or popular support and warning that any official presence in the south would not bind southern representatives politically. Yemen has faced ongoing conflict and instability since Houthi rebels seized much of the country, including the capital Sanaa, in 2014. The STC, formed in 2017, seeks independence for southern Yemen.   With inputs from ALJAZEERA

The United States military is preparing for the possibility of weeks-long operations against Iran if President Donald Trump orders military action, according to two US officials, raising concerns of a more serious conflict between the longtime rivals. The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said planning is underway for a sustained campaign that could target Iranian state and security facilities beyond nuclear infrastructure. Such operations would carry greater risks for US forces and could trigger wider instability across the Middle East, reports Reuters. Diplomatic efforts are continuing alongside the military preparations. US and Iranian diplomats held talks in Oman last week aimed at reviving negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear programme. However, Trump said reaching a deal has been “difficult,” warning that the alternative to diplomacy could be “very traumatic.” The Pentagon has recently deployed additional military assets to the region, including an aircraft carrier, fighter jets, guided-missile destroyers and thousands of troops to strengthen offensive and defensive capabilities. US officials said Washington fully expects Iran to retaliate if strikes occur, potentially leading to prolonged exchanges of attacks. Experts warn that Iran’s large missile arsenal could threaten US forces and bases across the region. The White House said Trump is considering all options regarding Iran but will make a final decision based on US national security interests. The Pentagon declined to comment on the operational planning. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned that any strike on Iranian territory would be met with retaliation against US bases in the Middle East, including those in Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Tehran says it is open to negotiations on limits to its nuclear programme in return for sanctions relief, but it has ruled out linking the talks to its missile programme.

President Donald Trump said Friday that a change in leadership in Iran “would be the best thing that could happen,” as his administration considers possible military action against Tehran. Trump made the remarks after visiting U.S. troops at Fort Bragg and confirming that he is deploying a second aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East. Responding to reporters’ questions about removing Iran’s Islamic clerical leadership, Trump said such a shift in power could be beneficial, noting that the current regime has been in place for decades. Although Trump has recently emphasized curbing Iran’s nuclear program as his primary objective, he suggested Friday that Washington expects broader concessions from Tehran beyond nuclear limits. During a visit to Washington this week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged that any agreement also address Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities and its support for regional proxy groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah. Trump indicated that dismantling Iran’s nuclear activities — which were significantly damaged in U.S. strikes last year — would represent only part of a wider mission. Iran maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful. Prior to last year’s conflict, Tehran had enriched uranium to 60% purity, a level close to weapons-grade material. Trump’s comments about potentially ending the rule of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei came weeks after Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned that political change in Iran would be far more complicated than efforts to unseat Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Rubio noted in a Senate hearing that Iran’s leadership has been entrenched for decades and would require careful consideration if change were pursued. Trump also announced that the USS Gerald R. Ford, currently in the Caribbean, will head to the Middle East to join the USS Abraham Lincoln and other U.S. naval assets already in the region. He said the additional carrier would be needed if diplomatic efforts fail, adding that it would depart soon. While Trump had indicated new talks with Iran might take place this week, negotiations did not occur. Iranian officials instead traveled to Oman and Qatar to exchange messages through intermediaries. Gulf Arab states have warned that any military strike could trigger broader regional conflict, particularly as the Middle East remains tense following the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Inside Iran, authorities are facing renewed domestic pressure as citizens hold 40-day mourning ceremonies for those killed during recent nationwide protests. Netanyahu to press Trump to widen Iran nuclear talks during White House meeting The Ford strike group would add more than 5,000 personnel to U.S. forces in the Middle East, effectively doubling available aircraft and munitions. However, given its current location, it could take weeks before it reaches waters near Iran. Trump has repeatedly threatened military action if Iran does not agree to stricter limits on its nuclear activities. Indirect talks were held in Oman last week, and he warned that failing to reach a deal would have serious consequences. The Ford was previously redeployed to the Caribbean as part of the U.S. military buildup ahead of last month’s operation that led to Maduro’s capture. Extending the carrier’s deployment could place strain on its crew. The ship has been at sea since June 2025, approaching eight months. Navy officials have previously said prolonged deployments disrupt service members’ personal lives and complicate maintenance schedules. Aircraft carriers are typically deployed for six or seven months. Longer missions can increase wear on ships and delay scheduled repairs, as seen with the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, which underwent a nine-month Middle East deployment in 2023–24 and remains in maintenance beyond its planned completion date. Senior Navy leaders have recently expressed a preference for deploying smaller, newer vessels where possible instead of relying heavily on large aircraft carriers.  

US President Donald Trump has called on Iranians to continue protesting against their government, saying “help is on its way.” He urged protesters to take note of the names of those responsible for killings and abuses. Trump cancelled meetings with Iranian officials until the violent crackdown on protesters stops. Thousands of people are feared dead after weeks of anti-government protests. Human rights groups estimate around 1,847 protesters have died, including children and security personnel. Iranian authorities have sentenced some protesters to death. One, 26-year-old Erfan Soltani, is reportedly due to be executed on Jan 14. Families say the process is fast, raising fears of execution without notice. Iranian security forces also seized a large shipment of Starlink satellite internet kits, alleging they were intended for espionage and sabotage. Use of Starlink devices is illegal in Iran, and internet blackouts are ongoing. Meanwhile, the UK government has summoned the Iranian ambassador over the crackdown. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper called the violence “the most brutal and bloody repression against public protests in Iran for at least 13 years” and said the UK plans to push for further sanctions in coordination with the EU and the UN. Trump’s threats have drawn criticism from Iran’s officials and Russia. Ali Larijani, adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, blamed Trump for protest deaths. Russia’s foreign ministry called US threats of strikes “categorically unacceptable” and warned of serious consequences in the Middle East. The White House said Trump’s national security team is discussing possible options for intervention in Iran. It is unclear what kind of “help” the president intends or when it might come. Economic sanctions are also escalating. Trump announced a 25% US tariff on trade with Iran’s partners. Analysts warn enforcement may be difficult, and secondary sanctions could further harm Iran’s struggling economy, already affected by inflation, reduced oil exports, and trade restrictions. Internet blackouts and censorship continue to make verification of events inside Iran difficult. Human rights groups say the shutdowns violate international law and limit the ability to document abuses. The protests and international response highlight growing tension over Iran’s human rights record, economic crisis, and geopolitical position.   With inputs from BBC

 Mobile phones in Iran were able to make some international calls on Tuesday, days after authorities shut down the internet and blocked overseas connections amid a nationwide crackdown on protests. Several residents in Tehran managed to reach journalists at The Associated Press, though the AP bureau in Dubai said it could not call those numbers back. Iranians said text messaging was still not working, and witnesses reported that internet access remained cut off from the outside world. Iran imposed the shutdown on Thursday as protests intensified across the country. US President Donald Trump said Iran wants to negotiate with Washington after he warned of possible military action over Tehran’s handling of the protests. Activists say at least 646 people have been killed during the unrest. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Qatar-based Al Jazeera in an interview aired Monday night that he has continued to communicate with US envoy Steve Witkoff. The contacts “continued before and after the protests and are still ongoing,” Araghchi said, adding that Washington’s proposals and threats toward Iran are “incompatible.” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Iran’s public statements differ from the private messages the US administration has received in recent days. “The president has an interest in exploring those messages,” Leavitt said. “However, the president has also shown he is not afraid to use military options if and when he believes it is necessary, and nobody knows that better than Iran.” Meanwhile, large pro-government rallies took to the streets on Monday in a show of support for the ruling system after days of protests that directly challenged the leadership of 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iranian state television broadcast scenes of crowds, appearing to be in the tens of thousands, chanting slogans including “Death to America!” and “Death to Israel!” Others shouted, “Death to the enemies of God!” What to know about Iran protests as government shuts down internet, phone networks Iran’s attorney general has warned that anyone taking part in protests will be treated as an “enemy of God,” a charge that carries the death penalty.