United News of Bangladesh

A shooting at a family gathering in a Stockton banquet hall left four people dead and 10 others injured, officials said Saturday (November 29). San Joaquin County sheriff’s spokesperson Heather Brent confirmed that both children and adults were among the victims and said early reports indicate the attack may have been targeted. The suspected shooter remains at large, and authorities are appealing to the public for information. “If you know anything about this individual, contact authorities immediately. If you are the suspect, turn yourself in,” District Attorney Ron Freitas said. Read more: Afghan national arrested after White House-area National Guard shooting The incident occurred shortly before 6 p.m. at the hall, which shares a parking lot with other businesses. Stockton, located about 40 miles south of Sacramento, has a population of roughly 320,000. Mayor Christina Fugazzi expressed grief over the tragedy, noting the heartbreak for families forced to watch their loved ones fight for survival in hospitals. Several victims were hospitalized, though officials have not yet released details on their conditions. Read more: US suspends all asylum decisions following National Guard shooting

Travelers across the United States saw mostly on-time departures Friday (7th November 2025), even as airlines canceled more than 1,000 flights to comply with a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) order tied to the ongoing government shutdown. Despite a relatively stable day of travel, concern grew over additional cancellations expected in the coming week as the FAA reduces flight operations at major airports. The agency’s order follows a rise in absences among unpaid air traffic controllers, many of whom have gone nearly a month without pay. While some travelers scrambled to adjust their plans—booking alternative flights or renting cars—the cancellations still represented a small portion of total U.S. air traffic. However, long lines and last-minute disruptions were reported at around 40 major airports, including Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, and Charlotte. Airlines said they anticipate minimal disruptions through the weekend, and international routes remain unaffected. But Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that if the shutdown continues past next week—when controllers miss another paycheck—flight cancellations could rise from 10% to as much as 20%. Long Lines and Creative Travel Solutions At Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport, passengers waited in security lines that barely moved. “It was winding through every part of the terminal,” said traveler Cara Bergeron. “I’ve never seen anything like it.” Read more: Wall Street set to open higher as investors eye earnings amid US shutdown Other travelers faced bigger challenges. Karen Soika, a surgeon from Connecticut, learned her Newark flight had been moved to JFK Airport—an hour away. When rental cars were unavailable, she decided to rent a U-Haul truck and drive cross-country to Utah, where she is consulting on a TV production. Rental car companies like Hertz reported a sharp uptick in one-way rentals. Airlines Work to Rebook Passengers According to flight-tracking site FlightAware, Friday’s 1,000-plus cancellations were about five times Thursday’s total. Reagan National Airport saw the highest impact, with 18% of flights grounded, while O’Hare, Atlanta, Denver, and Dallas-Fort Worth each lost around 3% of scheduled flights. United and American Airlines said they were able to rebook most passengers quickly, prioritizing cancellations on smaller regional routes to minimize disruptions. Delta canceled roughly 170 flights Friday, American about 220 per day through Monday, and Southwest around 120. The FAA said the flight reductions will start at 4% of operations at the busiest airports and gradually increase to 10% next week. “I just don’t want to end up stranded on an airport bench,” said traveler Michele Cuthbert of Columbus, Ohio. “Everyone’s paying the price for politics.” Experts warn that if the shutdown drags on, cargo shipments could also be affected, since nearly half of U.S. air freight moves in passenger aircraft. “Air travel is a core part of America’s economic infrastructure,” said Greg Raiff, CEO of Elevate Aviation Group. “This will ripple through business, tourism, and freight.” Why the Cuts Are Happening The FAA said the service reductions aim to ease the burden on overworked controllers, many of whom are working six days a week with mandatory overtime. As financial stress mounts, more are calling out of work. “I don’t want to see delays or disruptions,” Secretary Duffy said Friday at Reagan National Airport. “But safety must come first.” Read more: Asian shares rise on Wall Street gains as tech stocks rally despite U.S. government shutdown The FAA’s decision comes as the Trump administration continues pressuring Congress to end the government shutdown. Even if an agreement is reached soon, officials said the reduced flight schedules will remain in place until staffing levels stabilize. At Denver International Airport, officials have opened a food pantry for unpaid federal workers and asked the FAA to approve using airport revenue to cover controller pay—so far, without response. What Travelers Can Do Airlines are navigating uncertain territory, said Loyola University Maryland professor Kerry Tan. “The unpredictability of the shutdown makes it difficult for carriers to plan efficiently,” he said. Passengers are entitled to full refunds for canceled flights, though airlines aren’t obligated to cover hotel or meal costs unless cancellations are within their control, according to the Department of Transportation. Travel adviser Christina Schlegel of Arlington, Virginia, advised passengers to stay calm, check flight updates regularly, and arrive early. “Think ahead,” she said. “Have a backup plan and know what other flight options are available.” Read more: Trump embarks on three-nation Asia tour, set to meet Xi as US shutdown persists

Bangladesh’s leading soy processors and feed importers have signed agreements worth over $1.25 billion to import US soybeans and soybean meal, aiming to boost the country’s protein and feed industries while narrowing the trade gap with the United States. The deal, representing nearly 2.5 times the country’s previous US soy purchases, was signed between Bangladesh’s leading soy value chain companies and the United States Soybean Export Council (USSEC) at two ceremonies in a city hotel on Tuesday, attended by importers, mill owners, diplomats, and business leaders. Participating Bangladeshi companies include Meghna Group of Industries, City Group, Delta Agrofood Industries Ltd, Mahbub Group and KGS Group, all of whom have committed to scaling up imports over the next 12 months. At the signing ceremony, Kevin M Roepke, USSEC’s Executive Director for the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia, said the move would deliver a major boost to Bangladesh’s poultry, aquaculture, and dairy sectors. “We are very proud of our bilateral relationship,” he said, highlighting the role of U.S. soy in ensuring nutrition, quality, and sustainability in Bangladesh’s food systems. USSEC CEO Jim Sutter echoed the sentiment, calling the agreement a ‘historic milestone’ that deepens economic and nutritional ties between the two nations. “Our US soybeans play an integral role in the world’s food systems, providing nutrition and food security across borders,” Sutter said in a virtual address, emphasizing that US soybeans' low carbon footprint and zero-deforestation record align with Bangladesh’s growing demand for sustainable inputs. Govt cuts palm oil price, soybean oil price unchanged “By investing in US soy, you are shaping a better tomorrow, proving that sustainability transcends borders,” he added. Amirul Haque, Managing Director of Delta Agrofood Industries Ltd, said the US soy deal could pave the way for $3.5 billion in total US imports if crude oil and LPG are added to the mix. “Higher imports of U.S. products will help reduce Bangladesh's $6 billion trade gap with the USA,” he said. MGI Director Tanjima Mostafa said Meghna Group plans to import one million tonnes of soybean products this year—the largest single import of its kind in Bangladesh. “We’re continuing to invest in logistics and focusing on end consumers,” she added. Echoing the optimism, City Group Managing Director Md Hasan said importing high-quality soybeans in such large quantities would bolster both nutrition and food security across the country. Tracey Ann Jacobson, Chargé d’Affaires of the US Embassy in Dhaka, said the agreement reflects Washington’s commitment to deepening economic relations with Bangladesh. “Between 2024 and 2025, we aim to increase agricultural exports to Bangladesh from $779 million to $1 billion,” she said, adding, “today’s signing is part of that effort.” CAB demands strict action against Soybean oil syndicates Jacobson added that U.S. soybean meal exports to Bangladesh had already surged—from $5 million in 2023 to $20 million in 2024, and are projected to reach $86 million this year. *She expressed optimism that the growth would continue, citing US soy’s superior quality and its vital role in Bangladesh’s livestock and fisheries sectors. Under the new partnership, Bangladeshi processors and importers will not only increase soy purchases but also collaborate with USSEC on sustainable sourcing, leveraging the US Soy Sustainability Assurance Protocol (SSAP) to reduce environmental impact. The deal also supports USSEC’s Right to Protein campaign, promoting awareness about protein consumption and nutritional development in Bangladesh. Md Taslim Shariar, Deputy General Manager of Meghna Group of Industries, hailed the agreement as a game-changer for the nation’s crushing and feed industries. “This is a milestone for Bangladesh. The more we crush, the more we achieve food security,” he said. “It accelerates growth in the poultry, feed, and edible oil industries. Bangladesh and US soy grow together—building a legacy of economic resilience, industrial growth, and nutritional excellence for generations to come,” he added. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), US soybeans ranked as Bangladesh’s No.1 agricultural import in 2024, valued at $350 million. The country has also become South Asia’s strongest market for U.S. soy, with soybean meal imports up 650% year-on-year. In contrast, Bangladesh’s exports to the US totaled $8.78 billion last year, underscoring a dynamic and expanding bilateral trade partnership. Consumers suffer as soybean oil crisis still persists in Dhaka Industry insiders say Bangladesh’s processors have long preferred US soy for its consistent quality. “The quality of US soybeans is far better than other origins,” said Delta Agrofood’s Amirul.

Democrat Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old state lawmaker and self-described democratic socialist, has been elected mayor of New York City, becoming the city’s first Muslim leader and its youngest mayor in decades. Mamdani defeated independent candidate and former Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo, who sought a political comeback four years after resigning amid scandal. His victory marks a generational and ideological shift in city politics, fueled by grassroots organizing and strong support from young and working-class voters. President Donald Trump closely followed the race and repeatedly attacked Mamdani, falsely calling him a communist and threatening to withhold federal funds from New York if he won. Trump endorsed Cuomo on the eve of the election, bypassing Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. At Mamdani’s victory party, supporters danced to Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” as tenants’ rights activist Joanne Grill declared, “We beat the millionaires and billionaires — little old us, working-class New Yorkers are taking this city back.” At Cuomo’s election night gathering, the mood was somber as guests quietly departed while Billy Joel’s “Uptown Girl” played in the background. Zohran Mamdani defends Muslim identity amid “racist and baseless” attacks Republican Curtis Sliwa conceded the race but warned that he would “mobilize” his supporters if Mamdani pursued socialist policies. “We will become the mayor-elect and his supporters’ worst enemies,” he said to a cheering crowd, accusing “some of the most powerful people in the world” of opposing his campaign. In another closely watched contest, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg secured reelection against Republican Maud Maron and independent Diana Florence. Bragg, who oversaw the hush-money case that led to Trump’s historic conviction, focused his campaign on reducing gun violence, prosecuting hate crimes, and expanding mental health services. Bragg, who avoided mentioning Trump during the campaign, said his office has helped reduce murders and shootings, though his opponents argued he has not been tough enough on crime. As news of Mamdani’s win spread, jubilant supporters waved New York City flags and chanted his name as Bad Bunny tracks blared — a moment marking a new chapter in the city’s political history. Read more: Mamdani's political upset inspires hope among South Asian, Muslim New Yorkers Source: AP 

The government of Bangladesh has demonstrated overall increasing efforts to deal with the trafficking in persons compared with the previous reporting period, says the United States (US). The US in its recently released ‘2025 Trafficking in Persons Report’ said the government of Bangladesh does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is ‘making significant efforts’ to do so. “Therefore, Bangladesh remained on Tier 2,” said the report in its Bangladesh chapter, noting that these efforts included increasing training on the victim identification guidelines and trauma-informed are for frontline officials and formally adopting an NRM (national referral mechanism). Prof Yunus at UNGA: Press Secretary outlines 6 key achievements The government decreased overall law enforcement efforts, the report says, adding that the government maintained efforts to prevent trafficking. The government identified more trafficking victims and referred them to protection services. However, the government did not meet the minimum standards in several key areas. The government investigated, prosecuted, and convicted fewer traffickers and did not take adequate steps to address internal trafficking crimes, including sex trafficking and forced child labor, which remained pervasive. Labor inspectors severely lacked the capacity to adequately monitor informal sectors and hold companies accountable for labor violations. Victim protection and reintegration efforts remained insufficient, particularly for Rohingya refugees and returning Bangladeshi migrant workers. The government continued to permit set recruitment fees that rendered many migrant workers indebted, increasing their vulnerability to trafficking. Prioritised Recommendations The US report recommended increased efforts to investigate and prosecute trafficking crimes, including complicit officials and seek adequate penalties for convicted traffickers, which should involve significant prison terms. It also calls for strengthening the capacity of Anti-Trafficking Tribunal personnel to prosecute and adjudicate human trafficking cases, and expand tribunals to heavy caseload areas. The report called for increasing the availability and quality of protection and reintegration services for all trafficking victims, including adult male victims, foreign victims, and victims exploited abroad and allow trafficking victims in government-run and -funded shelters freedom of movement. Other recommendations include: consistently enforce regulations and monitor labor recruitment companies, dalals (sub-agents), and brokers who supply labor to recruiting agencies, including by eliminating recruitment fees charged to migrant workers and holding fraudulent labor recruiters criminally accountable. Increase the capacity of labor inspectors to identify trafficking crimes, including monitoring the informal sector, filing cases in labor courts and referring cases for criminal courts investigations. Increase efforts to identify trafficking victims among vulnerable populations, including disseminating and implementing formal victim identification procedures and the NRM to refer victims to appropriate services. Increase law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute credible allegations of trafficking of Rohingya, including cases that do not involve movement, and establish clear procedures for referring Rohingya to protection services. Increase training for officials, including law enforcement, labor inspectors, immigration officers, and health care providers, on a victim-centered and trauma-informed approach and on victim identification and referral to services. Improve quality of pre-departure training for migrant workers, including sessions on labor rights, labour laws, and access to justice and overseas assistance. Cease the inappropriate penalization of adult trafficking victims solely for unlawful acts committed as a direct result of trafficking. Youth must lead from the front to rebuild Bangladesh: Rashed Khan Implement the 2015 MOU with India to streamline the identification and repatriation of Bangladeshi trafficking victims. Adopt a revised and resourced comprehensive National Action Plan (NAP) that incorporates greater attention to prosecution and protection efforts, including dedicating resources to enhance victim care. Human trafficking is a horrific and devastating crime that also enriches transnational criminal organizations and immoral, anti-American regimes. The 25th edition of the Trafficking in Persons Report pushes countries to take serious action against forced labor and sex trafficking and ensures that those who fail to act face consequences, according to the US Department of State.  

US Special Envoy for Best Future Generations Charles Harder has said the United States will continue to support the people of Myanmar, including Rohingya and other minorities, and urged other donors to join them in this effort. "Increased contributions are vital to ensure dignity, safety, and hope for vulnerable populations. This is fundamentally not a responsibility of the U.S., and we will not be the primary provider of assistance while others sit by," said the Special Envoy. Harder, while speaking at high-level conference on the 'Situation of Rohingya Muslims and Other Minorities in Myanmar' held at the UN General Assembly on September 30, said this is not a burden the United States will bear indefinitely; it is long past time for other governments and actors in the region to develop sustainable solutions for Rohingya. All nations, organisations, and private donors must step forward and share the burden by increasing their contributions, said the Special Envoy. The scale and complexity of this crisis make it clear that no single country or entity can do it alone. To underscore the US commitment in saving lives and providing critical assistance where needed, Harder announced the intent to provide more than $60 million in assistance for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. "With this, we expect meaningful policy changes by Bangladesh to allow livelihood opportunities and by aid organisations to increase cost efficiency," Harder said. The United States expressed its support for Rohingya and other Myanmar minorities who have been victims of repression and violence. "Survivors of that persecution are here with us today. I commend their bravery in speaking out," Harder said. The US thanked the government of Bangladesh, as they have shown generosity and compassion in hosting Rohingya refugees, many of whom fled a campaign of genocide and crimes against humanity perpetrated by Myanmar’s military. Rohingya Conf: US, UK announce fresh aid commitment of $96mn "We also thank Thailand for its steadfast partnership, including its recent decision to grant Myanmar refugees permission to work," Harder said. Unfortunately, the Special Envoy said, Myanmar’s military regime continues to escape accountability for their atrocities. "They continue to oppress minorities, bomb civilians, and use child soldiers." Harder said they are deeply concerned about reports of ongoing atrocities and forced displacement, particularly in Rakhine State. The US called on all armed actors, including the military regime and the Arakha Army, to protect civilians, allow humanitarian access, and adhere to international humanitarian law. Despite ASEAN and UN efforts to create conditions for dialogue, violence and instability have only worsened, Harder said. The regime is moving ahead with an election plan that excludes the most popular and representative political parties. "This plan will not address the legitimate aspirations of Myanmar’s ethnic groups. We reject these elections under current conditions," Harder said. "Our goal is a future in which all people of Myanmar can live in safety, dignity, and peace. Our focus now should be on a ceasefire, a genuine dialogue, which is critical to shape the country’s future," said the US Special Envoy. Meanwhile, the United States has committed to taking international efforts to provide humanitarian assistance for Rohingya refugees. "We must review assistance to eliminate overlap, inefficiencies, and redundancies. We must maximise local solutions and minimise expensive overhead costs," Harder said. Rohingya Conference: Prospects for funding JRP next year grim, says Filippo Grandi Burden-sharing and increasing efficiency are strategic necessities, said the US Special Envoy. "By working together, the international community can strengthen collective efforts to address the root causes of displacement, support durable solutions, and prevent further instability in the region," Harder said.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus is scheduled to depart from Dubai International Airport for New York, the United States on Monday morning (Dubai time). A commercial flight of Emirates Airlines, carrying the Chief Adviser and his small entourage, is scheduled to leave for the John F Kennedy International Airport at 8:30am (Dubai time) from Dubai International Airport. Prof Yunus left Dhaka for New York early Monday to attend the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). A commercial flight of the Emirates, carrying the Chief Adviser along with his small entourage, left Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 1:40am, Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder told UNB. The Bangladesh delegation is scheduled to reach at John F Kennedy International Airport at 2:25pm (NY Time) on Monday. Bangladesh Ambassador to the United States Tareq Md Ariful Islam and Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations Salahuddin Noman Chowdhury will welcome the Chief Adviser in New York. BNP Secretary-General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, BNP leader Humayun Kabir, Nayeb-e-Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Syeed Abdullah Muhammad Taher, first senior joint member secretary of National Citizen Party Dr Tasnim Jara and NCP leader Akhter Hossen are accompanying the Chief Adviser as part of the Bangladesh delegation to the UNGA at the invitation of the Chief Adviser. Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami leader Mohammad Nakibur Rahman will join the delegation from the USA, a political source told UNB. UNGA: Prof Yunus off to New York with Fakhrul, Jamaat, NCP leaders Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, Energy Adviser M Fouzul Kabir Khan, Special Envoy on International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqi, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Principal Secretary to Chief Adviser M Siraz Uddin Miah, Principal Coordinator (SDGs Affairs) Lamiya Morshed, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam and Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam are among the members of Bangladesh delegation, a senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told UNB. Prof Yunus is set to hold a series of high-level meetings on the sidelines of the UNGA. Upon arrival, he is likely to meet family members of deceased police officer of NYPD Didarul Islam. On Monday evening (NY Time), Prof Yunus will attend a high-level event on "Social Business, Youth and Technology which will be organised by Global Committee on Social Business for Sustainable Development Goals. He will also attend annual SDG dinner and award ceremony. At the General Debate (Sept 23-27 & 29), the annual meeting of heads of state and government in the beginning of the General Assembly session, world leaders will make statements outlining their positions and priorities in the context of complex and interconnected global challenges, officials said. UNGA: More political leaders to join as Prof Yunus leaves for NY Monday

  The interim government has decided to nearly double wheat imports in the current fiscal year (2025–26) in a bid to bridge the widening gap between local production and rising consumption. Wheat is fast becoming a dietary staple in urban and semi-urban areas in the country with demand surging for wheat-based products such as bread, noodles, and biscuits. However, domestic production remains limited—only around 1.1 million tonnes—compared to a national requirement of over 7 million tonnes. According to a Food Planning and Monitoring Committee document, the government has planned to import around 8 lakh (800,000) metric tonnes of wheat this fiscal year—almost double the previous year's government procurement of 4.66 lakh metric tonnes. The document notes that wheat has not been available for domestic procurement in recent years, prompting the need for increased imports. 52,500 mt wheat imported from Ukraine reaches Chattogram It said the import plan will be re-determined in coordination with the possible distribution target and safety stock of wheat in the current fiscal year. “Tenders have already been invited for the import of one lakh metic tonnes of wheat and the process of importing 2.20 lakh metric tonnes of wheat from the United States is underway,” according  to the document . The wheat import through government initiative in 2024-25 fiscal was 4.66 lakh metric tonnes while it was 7.84 lakh metic tonnes, 6.86 lakh metic tonnes, 5.46 lakh metic tonnes and 4.79 lakh metic tonnes in 2023-24 fiscal, 2022-23 fiscal, 2021-22 fiscal and 2020-21 fiscal years respectively. Bangladesh on Sunday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the US under which the country will import 700,000 metric tonnes (MTs) of high-quality wheat annually from the US over the next five years at competitive prices. Historically, Bangladesh imported wheat from Russia, Ukraine, Canada, Australia, and India. Shipments from Ukraine have decreased since the war with Russia began in 2022, forcing local traders to diversify sources often at higher costs. Currently, Russia and India are Bangladesh’s primary wheat suppliers. India has intermittently imposed export restrictions, affecting supply stability and prompting Bangladesh to explore deals with alternative markets. Bangladesh Bank data shows that the country imported approximately $635.8 million worth of wheat in FY24. The government has taken steps to stabilise the wheat market including lowering import duties to encourage private sector imports and ensuring food security amid fluctuating prices. The state-run Trading Corporation of Bangladesh has also increased its procurement to strengthen public stockpiles. Despite the import surge, Bangladesh faces risks from global price hikes, shipping disruptions, and currency fluctuations. Bangladesh is seeking to expand wheat imports from the United States as part of its broader trade strategy. Officials say deals are being negotiated for bulk shipments of high-quality US wheat varieties like Hard Red Winter and Soft Red Winter. The move also aims to offset the impact of the Trump administration’s recent imposition of a 35% tariff on Bangladeshi products. The government is also considering reducing import tariffs to encourage private sector participation in sourcing wheat from the US.  

The United States has announced plans to slash Iran’s oil exports by more than 90 per cent as part of former President Donald Trump’s renewed “maximum pressure” campaign, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated on Friday. Speaking to Fox Business, Bessent said, “We are committed to bringing the Iranians back to 100,000 barrels-a-day of oil exports,” referencing the level seen during Mr Trump’s first term in office. Currently, Iran is exporting between 1.5 million and 1.6 million barrels per day, according to Bessent. Last week, Mr Trump signed a memorandum directing the Treasury Department to impose “maximum economic pressure” on Tehran to prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons. The order echoes the policy from his first administration, which saw Iran’s oil exports plummet from approximately three million barrels per day in 2017 to around 400,000 in 2019. During his initial term, Mr Trump withdrew from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), arguing that the agreement failed to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear technology. Sanctions lifted under the deal were subsequently reimposed as part of Washington’s strategy to cripple Iran’s economy. Economic Pressure and Sanctions Bessent underscored the US’s capacity to enforce maximum economic pressure on Iran, suggesting that a return to “Trump 1.0 levels” of oil exports would lead to “severe economic distress” for the country. “Their economy is quite fragile right now,” he said, citing high inflation and a “gigantic” budget deficit. He further claimed that revenue from Iran’s oil exports was being used to fund “terrorist activity.” Modi says US and India target $500 billion bilateral trade by 2030 In line with Mr Trump’s directive, the Treasury Department has already imposed sanctions on three oil tankers, and Bessent signalled that further measures could be taken against Russian energy exports if instructed by the administration. The executive order also directed the State Department to “modify or rescind existing sanctions waivers” and coordinate with Treasury in implementing the maximum pressure policy. China and India in the Spotlight Experts warn that reducing Iran’s oil exports to near-zero levels would necessitate targeting intermediaries, as well as major buyers such as China and India. “The Chinese, perhaps Indians, are buying the sanctioned Iranian oil and that is unacceptable,” Bessent stated. While the US remains steadfast in its approach, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed the prospect of negotiations under such conditions. “Negotiation cannot be carried out from a weak stance, as it will no longer be considered negotiation but a kind of surrender. We never go to the negotiating table this way,” Iranian state media quoted him as saying this week. Opec’s Position Despite Washington’s aggressive stance, analysts suggest that the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) is unlikely to alter its voluntary production cuts due to the US campaign. With Iran’s crude oil production recorded at 3.28 million barrels per day in January 2025, Opec is expected to have sufficient capacity to absorb any supply reductions resulting from the sanctions. China establishes over 30,000 smart factories As tensions escalate, the effectiveness of Mr Trump’s renewed maximum pressure strategy remains to be seen, particularly amid ongoing geopolitical shifts and Iran’s determined resistance to US-imposed economic constraints. Source: Agencies

On his first day back in office, President Donald Trump issued pardons or commutations for all 1,500-plus individuals charged in connection with the January 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot, reports AP. Among those pardoned were individuals convicted of seditious conspiracy and assaulting law enforcement. This move effectively reversed the extensive prosecutions following the attack on the Capitol, which disrupted a joint session of Congress and injured over 100 police officers. Trump, a populist president, is flanked by tech billionaires at his inauguration Trump's decision also included an order for the attorney general to seek dismissal of around 450 pending cases linked to the Capitol riot. Describing the defendants as "patriots" and victims of an unjust Justice Department, Trump framed the pardons as a step towards "national reconciliation." His actions were celebrated by supporters and defence attorneys, while critics, including Democratic leaders and law enforcement officials, expressed outrage over what they saw as an affront to justice and public safety. Notably, the pardons included commutations for 14 individuals convicted of seditious conspiracy, with the remainder receiving full, unconditional clemency. The announcement triggered mixed reactions, with supporters expressing gratitude and optimism, while opponents highlighted the violent acts committed and the impact on victims, many of whom are law enforcement officers. Trump says 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico coming on Feb. 1 as he signs several orders on economy The sweeping pardons also come amidst the Justice Department's abandonment of federal criminal cases against Trump, following his re-election, in line with policies against prosecuting sitting presidents. Over the last four years, extensive investigations and prosecutions had resulted in more than 1,200 convictions, with many facing substantial prison sentences for their roles in the riot.