United News of Bangladesh

A US federal appeals court panel has ruled that a Pentagon policy illegally barred transgender people from serving in the military, marking another legal setback for President Donald Trump’s agenda. A divided three-judge panel of the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit said the policy was designed to exclude individuals based on gender identity. However, the ban will remain in place for now as legal proceedings continue, after the US Supreme Court previously allowed its enforcement to begin. The ruling limits its immediate impact to protecting transgender service members who are already in the military and part of the lawsuit. It does not allow new transgender recruits to join. The court also paused implementation of its decision to give the administration time to seek further review. The decision partially upholds a 2025 ruling by US District Judge Ana Reyes, who found that Trump’s executive order excluding transgender troops likely violated constitutional protections. Following that ruling, the administration appealed after an injunction was issued in favour of active-duty transgender service members and individuals seeking to enlist. The appeals court narrowed that order, extending protection only to those already serving. Another related case in Washington state had also ruled against the ban, but that decision was blocked by the Supreme Court. The policy stems from a January 2025 executive order signed by Trump, which argued that transgender identity conflicts with military discipline and readiness. In response, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth introduced a rule that generally disqualifies people diagnosed with gender dysphoria from serving. The condition refers to distress caused when a person’s gender identity does not match their sex assigned at birth. Writing for the majority, Judge Robert Wilkins said the policy appeared to be motivated by an attempt to target a politically unpopular group, namely transgender people. The ruling was welcomed by LGBTQ rights advocates. Jennifer Levi of GLAD Law called it a strong validation of the plaintiffs’ position and their service to the country. The Pentagon has not yet commented on the ruling, though Hegseth indicated on social media that the administration plans to appeal further, referencing the US Supreme Court. In a dissenting opinion, Judge Justin Walker said courts should not interfere in military decisions regarding troop eligibility, arguing that such authority lies with Congress and the president as commander in chief. Judge Judith Rogers agreed with the majority that the policy was unlawful but said she would also have allowed transgender individuals seeking enlistment to proceed in the case.

The United States military says it struck a commercial cargo vessel trying to force its way through a blockade of Iranian ports, hitting the ship’s engine room with a missile, according to U.S. Central Command. The Gambia-flagged cargo ship ‘Lian Star’reportedly ignored more than 20 warnings from U.S. forces overnight as it attempted to enter an Iranian port, the military said. A U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the ship was left drifting in the Gulf of Oman and had not been boarded by U.S. forces. The incident marks the latest in a series of enforcement actions, with the U.S. military saying it has now stopped six ships trying to breach the blockade. One vessel was allowed to pass, while more than 100 others have been redirected. The blockade was launched on April 17 in response to tensions in the region after earlier U.S. and Israeli strikes in late February. A fragile ceasefire has been in place since early April, while diplomatic discussions continue over extending it and addressing Iran’s nuclear programme. U.S. officials say the blockade aims to restrict Iran’s shipping activity and limit its access to revenue, adding pressure on an already struggling economy. President Donald Trump met advisers on Friday but has not yet decided on extending the ceasefire agreement and reopening key maritime routes. Iran, meanwhile, says no final agreement has been reached. Despite tensions, commercial shipping continues to pass through the region, though at reduced levels. Iran has insisted it must approve transit through the waterway. Iran’s joint military command warned that any violation of its regulations would put vessels at serious risk, according to a statement carried by state media. It also said foreign military interference could be targeted. Iran has also reportedly imposed high transit fees in some cases, a move critics say violates international maritime norms guaranteeing free navigation. Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani said his country opposes charging transit fees, though he noted that temporary arrangements linked to operations such as mine-clearing could be negotiated to help restore normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. A U.S. official earlier told The Associated Press that no mines have been discovered or destroyed in the strait so far.

FIFA is facing fresh scrutiny in the United States over high World Cup ticket prices and controversial sales practices that many fans say left them paying more for less desirable seats. Authorities in New York and New Jersey have launched an investigation into whether FIFA’s ticketing system violated consumer protection laws. The move comes as both states prepare to host matches, including the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The attorneys general of the two states said they have issued subpoenas to FIFA, seeking details on its ticket sales methods. These include the use of “variable pricing,” which caused ticket costs to rise sharply, and changes to stadium seating plans that allegedly moved fans further away from the field than expected. The investigation, being carried out with support from New York City’s Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, is mainly focused on ticket sales for matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. “Fans have waited years for the World Cup to come here and they deserve fair and affordable access to tickets,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James. “People should not be forced to pay extremely high prices or receive seats different from what they expected.” New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport also criticised FIFA, saying the ticket-buying process had become confusing and unfair, with artificial scarcity and extremely high prices. FIFA has not commented on the investigation. The World Cup is set to begin on June 11 with matches in Mexico, while the first game at the nearly 82,000-seat MetLife Stadium — temporarily renamed for the event — will take place on June 13 between Brazil and Morocco. Ticket prices have drawn strong reactions, with some seats for the July 19 final reportedly selling for as much as $33,000. In response to public concerns, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently announced a lottery system offering 1,000 tickets to city residents at $50 each. These tickets will be distributed across matches held at MetLife Stadium, excluding the final. Earlier, FIFA had also released a limited number of $60 tickets for each match through participating national football associations.

The United States carried out fresh “defensive” strikes against Iran on Wednesday, as President Donald Trump claimed Tehran is “running out of options” in ongoing negotiations and said upcoming midterm elections will not pressure him into a quick deal. According to US officials, American forces intercepted and destroyed four Iranian one-way attack drones near the Strait of Hormuz, considering them a potential threat. The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said US troops also targeted a drone control site in Bandar Abbas that was preparing to launch another drone. The latest military actions came as Trump expressed confidence during a Cabinet meeting that progress is being made toward ending the nearly three-month-long conflict, although negotiations remain uncertain. The president is aiming for an agreement that would reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and allow him to claim that Iran’s nuclear capabilities have been significantly reduced. Such an outcome could help him justify ending a war that has faced political criticism at home. However, the proposed deal leaves several key issues unresolved and has drawn criticism, even from some of Trump’s Republican allies. Critics argue that Iran’s leadership could emerge from the conflict weakened but still empowered. With midterm elections approaching and concerns growing over rising fuel prices and living costs, some Republicans worry about the political impact. But Trump dismissed suggestions that the elections would influence his decisions. “They thought they could wait me out because of the midterms,” Trump said. “I don’t care about the midterms.” He acknowledged that negotiations are still ongoing but remained optimistic. “They want a deal badly,” he said. “We’re not satisfied yet, but we will be or we’ll have to finish the job.” Earlier this week, the Pentagon confirmed similar “defensive” strikes targeting Iranian missile sites and boats suspected of laying naval mines. The US has said it is acting cautiously due to a fragile ceasefire that has been in place for weeks. Republican concerns over deal terms Despite Trump’s optimism, differences remain between Washington and Tehran on several major issues. Senior Republican lawmakers, including Senators Roger Wicker, Lindsey Graham and Ted Cruz, have expressed concern that the deal may be too favorable to Iran. Some critics say the proposed agreement resembles the nuclear deal negotiated under former President Barack Obama  a deal Trump had previously withdrawn from.   Under the current proposal, Iran would give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium in exchange for relief from economic sanctions. Officials say details on how the uranium would be handled are still under discussion, with options including dilution or transfer to a third country. However, Trump said he would not be comfortable with Russia or China taking control of Iran’s uranium stockpile. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran currently possesses about 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60% purity, close to weapons-grade levels. Iran has not publicly agreed to surrender this material. Uncertainty over Israel and Lebanon Another unresolved issue is whether the ceasefire would include Israel’s ongoing military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Iran has insisted that Lebanon be included in any agreement. The US proposal appears to leave room for interpretation, supporting a broader ceasefire while also recognizing Israel’s right to defend itself against immediate threats. Clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters continue in southern Lebanon, with Israeli troops advancing further north. Analysts warn that any sanctions relief could allow Iran to rebuild its military strength and support allied groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. Push to expand Abraham Accords Trump has also called for expanding the Abraham Accords — agreements aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and several Muslim-majority countries — to include nations such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and Pakistan. “We are strongly encouraging them to join,” Trump said. However, experts say this goal may be difficult to achieve. Saudi Arabia, for example, has maintained that recognition of Israel depends on a clear path toward establishing a Palestinian state — something Israel currently opposes. Trump raised the issue during recent talks with Middle Eastern leaders, though reactions reportedly varied. While some officials described the response as muted, others said certain allies showed interest in the proposal.

The United States has deported nearly 13,000 Cubans, Venezuelans and other migrants to Mexico, where many face serious risks including cartel violence and lack of basic support, according to a new report by Human Rights Watch released Wednesday. Although Mexico has accepted such deportations before, the report says those sent under the Trump administration are often older and had lived in the US for many years. This makes it harder for them to find jobs and increases their need for medical care. The findings are based on more than 50 interviews conducted in the southern Mexican cities of Tapachula and Villahermosa. The report comes as US authorities have expanded immigration enforcement as part of a wider mass deportation drive. As a result, people who were not previously targeted — including Cubans who had lived in the US for decades — are now being deported. Since countries like Cuba and Venezuela often refuse or limit return flights, many migrants are instead sent to Mexico under special arrangements. A Human Rights Watch researcher described the situation as extremely difficult, especially for older people who are suddenly removed from their lives and left in an unfamiliar and sometimes dangerous environment without proper support. Cubans make up the largest group among those deported, with more than 4,300 sent to Mexico. Many had lived in the US since the 1980s or 1990s, often holding green cards before losing their legal status. The report says over half had some form of criminal record, but only a small portion were linked to violent crimes, while about a quarter had no criminal history at all. Most were detained during routine immigration check-ins, while others were picked up at workplaces or public places. None were given a chance to appear before a judge to challenge their deportation to Mexico, even when they expressed safety concerns. Once in Mexico, many are sent to southern areas with limited job opportunities, poor access to healthcare and high levels of crime. The process to seek refugee status is also complicated, leaving many stuck without clear legal status. Aid workers say shelters are now seeing older deportees, including people in their 80s — a shift from the younger migrants usually arriving. Human Rights Watch has urged both the US and Mexico to make their deportation agreements public and ensure proper legal procedures are followed. It also called on Mexico to provide healthcare and legal pathways for those unable to return home, and on the US to halt such deportations until safeguards are in place.

Taiwan’s government said Friday it has not received any official notice from the United States about a possible delay in a planned $14 billion arms sale, despite comments from a senior U.S. official suggesting some foreign weapons deals are being paused. Taiwanese presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo said authorities in Taipei were aware of the reports but had not been informed of any changes to the proposed arms package. The comments came after acting U.S. Navy Secretary Hung Cao told a U.S. Senate committee on Thursday that some foreign military sales were temporarily being delayed to ensure the U.S. military has enough weapons stockpiles for operations linked to the conflict with Iran. “Right now we're doing a pause in order to make sure we have the munitions we need,” Cao said during a hearing of the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee. He added that foreign military sales would continue when the administration considers it appropriate. The issue gained attention only days after U.S. President Donald Trump questioned whether Washington should continue arms sales to Taiwan, the self-ruled island that China claims as its own territory. Although the United States does not officially recognize Taiwan as a separate country, it remains Taipei’s main security partner and largest arms supplier. The Trump administration approved an $11 billion weapons package for Taiwan in December. In January, U.S. lawmakers also approved another proposed $14 billion arms sale, though the deal still requires formal submission to Congress by Trump before it can move ahead. During an interview with Fox News after returning from Beijing last week, Trump described arms sales to Taiwan as “a very good negotiating chip” in dealings with China. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te on Wednesday said continued U.S. weapons sales are important for maintaining peace and security in the region. Meanwhile, China again warned Washington against supplying weapons to Taiwan. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing’s opposition to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan remains “clear-cut and resolute.” During Trump’s recent visit to Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly warned that the Taiwan issue is the most sensitive matter in U.S.-China relations and could lead to tensions or conflict if mishandled. Trump later told reporters he wanted to speak with Taiwan’s leader, without directly naming Lai. Any direct talks between Trump and Lai could trigger a strong reaction from Beijing, which considers Lai a separatist figure. Taiwan’s presidential office said Friday there was no further information about any possible conversation between Trump and Lai.

Large images of Donald Trump have appeared on auto-rickshaws across New Delhi as part of a US campaign to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence. The posters feature Trump’s portrait alongside the Statue of Liberty and the slogan “Happy Birthday America!” Around 100 auto-rickshaws carrying the posters have been seen on the streets of the Indian capital in recent weeks, turning the city’s three-wheelers into mobile advertisements for the US celebration. The campaign was launched last month by Sergio Gor, the US ambassador to India. In a social media post, the United States Embassy in India described the initiative by saying, “Freedom is on the move … literally!” and encouraged residents to look out for the vehicles across Delhi. The campaign comes as Washington seeks to strengthen ties with India after tensions over Trump’s tariff policies, which increased duties on several Indian exports. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is also expected to visit New Delhi this weekend. For many rickshaw drivers, however, the campaign has little personal significance. Driver Ganesh Kumar said he initially declined to place the poster on his vehicle but later agreed after organisers offered him a packet of tea. Another driver, Pradeep Kumar, said he accepted the poster mainly because it helped cover a torn canopy on his auto-rickshaw. Asked about the image, he said he recognised Trump but knew little else about him.

Two US officials who died in a vehicle crash after returning from an anti-drug operation in northern Mexico over the weekend were working for the CIA, according to a US official and two other people familiar with the matter. Two Mexican investigators were also killed in the crash. Mexican authorities said the convoy had been returning after a mission targeting drug laboratories run by criminal groups. However, differing accounts from US and Mexican officials have raised questions over the exact nature of the operation. The CIA link was confirmed Tuesday by sources familiar with the incident, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of intelligence matters. The Washington Post had earlier reported that the officials were CIA personnel. The incident comes amid confusion and conflicting statements from both governments about US involvement in the raid in Chihuahua state, where drug labs were reportedly destroyed. The lack of clarity has renewed debate over how deeply the United States is involved in security operations inside Mexico, especially as pressure grows from US President Donald Trump’s administration for stronger action against drug cartels. Trump has taken a tougher stance on Latin America, including military operations in the region and repeated offers of direct US action against Mexican cartels, which Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has rejected as unnecessary. US Ambassador to Mexico Ron Johnson initially described the deceased officials as embassy personnel. The US Embassy later said they were supporting efforts by Chihuahua state authorities but did not confirm their identities or agency ties. Mexican officials first suggested cooperation with US forces in the operation but later softened their statements after the matter drew political attention in Mexico. President Sheinbaum said she was not aware of any formal joint operation involving US agencies and Mexican forces, although she acknowledged that some level of coordination had taken place between local and US authorities. The controversy highlights the sensitive nature of US intelligence activity in Mexico, where cooperation against drug cartels often clashes with concerns over national sovereignty. Security analysts say covert US operations in Mexico have become more common in recent years, particularly under the Trump administration’s intensified anti-drug strategy, though both governments often avoid publicly acknowledging them.

A draft proposal calling for a 45-day ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz has been sent to Iran and the United States, according to two Middle Eastern officials who spoke anonymously to The Associated Press. The initiative, put forward by mediators from Egypt, Pakistan, and Turkey, aims to create a temporary halt in fighting to allow negotiations toward a lasting ceasefire. The proposal was delivered late Sunday to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, but neither side has issued a response. Meanwhile, violence continued across the region. Iranian state media reported that Maj. Gen. Majid Khademi, intelligence chief of the Revolutionary Guard, was killed in an attack allegedly carried out by the U.S. and Israel. Airstrikes across Iran since Sunday have left more than 25 people dead, while in the Israeli city of Haifa, at least two people were killed and others remain missing following Iranian missile strikes. U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Tehran, warning of major attacks on Iran’s infrastructure if it fails to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by a set deadline. He has threatened strikes on key facilities, including power plants and bridges. The conflict, which began on February 28 with joint U.S.-Israel attacks on Iran, has already resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread destruction. It has also disrupted global oil shipments, driven up fuel prices, and raised concerns about violations of international law due to attacks on civilian areas. Despite diplomatic efforts, uncertainty remains over whether the proposed ceasefire will be accepted, as both sides continue military operations and maintain firm positions.  

U.S. stock markets moved lower on Friday, heading toward a fourth straight week of losses, although a slight drop in oil prices helped calm markets in other parts of the world. The S&P 500 fell 0.5% in early trading and was on track for its longest weekly losing streak in a year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 126 points, or 0.3%, while the Nasdaq Composite declined 0.8%. Rising bond yields continued to put pressure on U.S. stocks. Higher yields make borrowing more expensive for businesses and consumers, which can slow economic growth and reduce investment demand. Yields have been increasing since the war with Iran began, as investors worry that higher oil and gas prices could push inflation up. Due to these concerns, traders are now less hopeful that the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates this year. According to market data, some investors are even considering a small chance of a rate hike in 2026 — something that seemed very unlikely before the conflict. Lower interest rates usually support economic growth and stock prices, and Donald Trump has repeatedly called for cuts. However, reducing rates too quickly could worsen inflation. Outside the United States, markets showed more stability after Thursday’s sharp declines. Stock indexes rose slightly in Europe and gained 0.3% in South Korea, although markets in China fell. The relative calm came as oil prices eased. Brent crude slipped 0.3% to $108.29 per barrel, while U.S. benchmark crude remained nearly unchanged at $95.53. Oil prices have been highly volatile since the war began, rising from around $70 per barrel. Markets are closely watching how long the conflict will last and its impact on energy supplies, especially in the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments that Iran has restricted. Among individual companies, Super Micro Computer shares plunged 28.2% after U.S. authorities accused a senior executive and others of illegally exporting advanced chips to China. The company said it is cooperating with investigators and has suspended the employees involved. On the positive side, FedEx rose 2.8% after reporting stronger-than-expected quarterly profits. In the bond market, the yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury climbed to 4.32%, up from 4.25% a day earlier and significantly higher than 3.97% before the war began.