United News of Bangladesh

On Friday, the United Nations General Assembly overwhelmingly voted in favor of a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict, urging Israel to recognize a future Palestinian state — a move staunchly opposed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The 193-member body passed a nonbinding resolution backing the “New York Declaration,” which outlines a gradual plan to resolve the decades-long conflict. The vote was 142 in favor, 10 against, and 12 abstentions. Just hours before the vote, Netanyahu declared that a Palestinian state would never be established, speaking during the signing of an agreement to expand Israeli settlements in the West Bank — territory Palestinians claim for their future state. “This place belongs to us,” Netanyahu said. The resolution was introduced by France and Saudi Arabia, who led a high-level conference in July to promote the two-state solution, where the declaration was originally endorsed. The ongoing war in Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict are expected to be key issues at the upcoming U.N. General Assembly session, beginning September 22. The Palestinian delegation hopes more countries — at least 10 — will formally recognize Palestine, adding to over 145 that already have. Palestinian U.N. envoy Riyad Mansour described the vote as a sign of global support for peace. Without directly naming Israel, he criticized those “still pushing for war and destruction,” urging them to listen to reason and the international call for a peaceful solution. Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon rejected the resolution, calling it “theater” that benefits Hamas and undermines the Assembly’s credibility. The United States, a close ally of Israel, also criticized the resolution. U.S. representative Morgan Ortagus labeled it “misguided” and “ill-timed,” calling it a propaganda gift for Hamas that undercuts genuine diplomatic efforts. The New York Declaration notably condemns Hamas for its October 7, 2023, attacks in southern Israel — a rare instance of Arab states publicly denouncing the militant group. The assault killed around 1,200 people and resulted in about 250 hostages, with roughly 20 still believed alive. The declaration also denounces Israeli military actions in Gaza, citing the severe humanitarian crisis caused by airstrikes, blockades, and shortages of food and supplies. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, over 64,000 Palestinians have been killed, though the numbers do not separate civilians from militants. The document calls for the Palestinian Authority to take control of all Palestinian territories, including Gaza, through a transitional committee once a ceasefire is in place. It also demands that Hamas relinquish control of Gaza and disarm. Additionally, the declaration supports a temporary U.N.-backed international mission to help protect civilians, oversee the ceasefire, assist the Palestinian Authority with security, and monitor future peace agreements. Finally, the declaration urges global recognition of the Palestinian state, describing it as vital for realizing the two-state solution. Without directly naming Israel, it warns that “illegal unilateral actions” are threatening the viability of a Palestinian state.

Nepal’s President Ram Chandra Poudel on Friday named former Supreme Court Chief Justice Sushila Karki as the country’s interim prime minister, marking the first time a woman has led the nation’s government. The appointment followed widespread unrest that led to the downfall of the previous administration. Acting on Karki’s recommendation, the president also dissolved the parliament and scheduled new elections for March 5, according to an official statement released late Friday. Nepal last held parliamentary elections in 2022. Karki, 73, earned public admiration during her tenure as Nepal’s only female chief justice in 2016–2017, particularly for her anti-corruption efforts. Though she faced an attempted impeachment in 2017 on allegations of bias, the effort was widely condemned and ultimately failed. Mass protests erupted in Kathmandu on Monday after the government briefly banned social media platforms. The demonstrations quickly escalated into violence, with protesters attacking public buildings and police forces responding with gunfire. Despite the government reversing the ban, the unrest persisted, fueled by broader dissatisfaction with political elites. Protesters set fire to the parliament building, the presidential residence, and various businesses. The turmoil led to the resignation and departure of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli on Tuesday. The military took control of the capital that night, and talks began between the army, protesters, and the president to form an interim government. Police reported on Friday that the week’s violence had claimed at least 51 lives, including protesters killed by police and inmates who died while attempting a prison break. Three police officers were also among the fatalities. A military-enforced curfew has been in place since Tuesday evening, allowing residents only limited hours to access essentials while soldiers patrol the streets. The protests, known as the “Gen Z uprising,” initially responded to the temporary ban on social media platforms such as Facebook, X, and YouTube—blocked for failing to comply with government oversight. However, the movement quickly expanded, with young demonstrators expressing frustration over political nepotism and youth unemployment, contrasting their struggles with the privilege enjoyed by the children of political leaders.

US President Donald Trump admitted on Friday that his decision to impose a 50% tariff on India for buying Russian oil created a rift between the two nations. "India was Russia's biggest customer, and I put a 50% tariff on India because of their oil purchases. That wasn't an easy decision," Trump said during a Fox News interview. The tariffs sparked outrage in India, fueling anti-US sentiment. The move was part of the US's efforts to counter Russia's invasion of Ukraine by penalizing nations buying oil from Moscow under Western sanctions. "That's a big deal. And it causes a rift with India," Trump added during the Fox & Friends program. US-India relations have been tense since Trump’s trade war, particularly after trade talks collapsed over India's reluctance to open its agricultural and dairy sectors. Bilateral trade between the two countries exceeds $190 billion annually. Trump first imposed a 25% tariff on Indian imports and later doubled it to 50% starting August 27. This was in response to India’s increasing oil purchases from Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Trump indicated that negotiations with India on trade barriers are ongoing and he plans to speak with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signaling a potential reset after recent tensions. Sergio Gor, Trump’s nominee for ambassador to India, expressed hope for progress during India's commerce minister's visit to Washington next week. Gor downplayed the tariffs as a "little hiccup," adding that the US holds its allies to higher standards. He emphasized that aligning India with the US is a priority. Trump also addressed his waning patience with Russian President Vladimir Putin, noting that while he previously had a good relationship with Putin, he was frustrated by the lack of progress in ending the war in Ukraine. Trump hinted that further sanctions and tariffs, including on banks and oil, were options but stressed that European nations must also participate.   Source: NDTV

On Wednesday, Qatari security forces secured the area around a building in Doha that was struck by Israeli airstrikes a day earlier. The attack targeted senior Hamas leaders who had gathered to discuss a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal for Gaza. The strike killed at least six people, including a Qatari security official, in a neighborhood that houses foreign embassies and schools. The attack, launched on the territory of a U.S. ally, sparked widespread international condemnation and threatened to derail ongoing peace talks and hostage negotiations with Hamas. Netanyahu Defends Strike, Warns Qatar Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the strike, warning Qatar and other countries that harbor militants: “Either expel terrorists or bring them to justice. If not — we will.” Qatar rejected Netanyahu’s remarks, emphasizing that hosting Hamas leaders is part of ongoing mediation efforts that have led to ceasefires and hostage releases, coordinated with both the U.S. and Israel. Details of the Attack An Israeli official, speaking anonymously, said around 10 aircraft dropped approximately 10 missiles in the strike. According to Israel, the timing was based on an “operational opportunity,” as several Hamas leaders were gathered in a specific location deemed low-risk for Qatari civilians. Although the building remained mostly intact, one room appeared to be the main target, with walls collapsed and debris scattered. Satellite imagery showed damage to surrounding structures, though no widespread destruction. Qatar Blames Israel for Regional Instability Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, condemned Netanyahu’s actions as "barbaric," saying they pushed the region toward “irreparable instability” and violated international law. Hamas Confirms Casualties but Claims Top Leaders Survived Hamas reported that five lower-ranking members were killed, including the son of senior Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya, three bodyguards, and al-Hayya’s office head. The group claimed its top leaders survived, though it provided no evidence. Strike Evaded Qatari Air Defenses Qatar, which has advanced air defense systems like Patriot and THAAD batteries, did not engage during the strike. Officials suggested that Israel used stand-off missiles launched from outside Qatari airspace, making them undetectable by radar. The U.S. said it had warned Qatar in advance, but Qatar disputes this, saying the American message only came 10 minutes after the attack. Geopolitical Fallout: Ceasefire Talks in Jeopardy According to the Soufan Center, a U.S. think tank, the Israeli strike has serious strategic consequences.By hitting a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) state, Israel risks damaging the Abraham Accords and weakening its relationships with Arab partners. The analysis warned that the strike could discourage future neutral mediators like Qatar from engaging in conflict resolution. Regional Leaders Rally Behind Qatar In a show of solidarity, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited Qatar on Wednesday, reflecting rising unease among Gulf states. The UAE had already warned Israel that any attempt to annex the West Bank would cross a "red line" and jeopardize diplomatic agreements. Qatar’s ruler, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, hosted Sheikh Mohammed and also received visits from the crown princes of Kuwait and Jordan. Qatari Leader Holds Global Talks Following the strike, Sheikh Tamim held calls with several world leaders, including former U.S. President Donald Trump. According to Qatar’s state news agency, Tamim blamed Israel for the consequences of the attack, accusing it of adopting policies that threaten regional stability and hinder peace efforts.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced plans to seek sanctions and suspend part of the EU’s trade with Israel over its actions in Gaza. However, the 27 EU member states remain divided on the issue, and it’s unclear whether there’s enough support to pass such measures. Meanwhile, Israel carried out heavy airstrikes on Houthi rebel targets in Sanaa, Yemen, killing at least 35 people and injuring over 130, according to Houthi officials. The strikes reportedly hit a fuel station and a government site. Israel confirmed the attack, saying it was in retaliation for recent drone and missile attacks launched by the Houthis. In Qatar, emergency workers responded to an Israeli strike in Doha, targeting Hamas political leaders discussing a potential ceasefire. Though Hamas said its top leaders survived, five lower-ranking members and one Qatari security officer were killed. The strike drew strong condemnation, including from Qatar’s Prime Minister, who accused Israeli PM Netanyahu of regional destabilization.  

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced Wednesday that she intends to pursue sanctions and a partial suspension of trade with Israel in response to the ongoing war in Gaza — a significant shift in stance for the EU leader, who has long supported Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The European Union, made up of 27 member states, remains divided over its position on the Israel-Palestine conflict. It is still uncertain whether von der Leyen will secure enough support to pass the proposed measures. She also revealed that the Commission will establish a Palestine donor coordination group next month, which will focus in part on the reconstruction of Gaza. Von der Leyen said the devastation in Gaza, especially the suffering of children and families, had deeply affected global public opinion. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, 126 Palestinians — including 26 children — have died due to hunger-related causes since a famine was declared in Gaza City by international experts on August 22. “Famine must never be used as a weapon of war. For the sake of the children, for the sake of humanity — this must end,” von der Leyen said, receiving applause during a European Parliament session in Strasbourg. Israeli Foreign Minister Reacts In response, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticized von der Leyen on social media, accusing her of giving in to political pressure that, he claimed, undermines Israel’s relationship with Europe and strengthens Hamas. Evacuation Orders in Gaza City Von der Leyen’s remarks came after the Israeli military issued a mass evacuation order on Tuesday for Gaza City, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians remain despite severe shortages of food and other essentials. Israel says it plans to retake what it describes as Hamas’ final stronghold. Roughly 1 million Palestinians — about half of Gaza's total population — live in the northern region around Gaza City, according to estimates by both Israeli officials and the United Nations. Many residents have been displaced multiple times and remain uncertain about the safety of moving again. The call for full evacuation preceded an Israeli airstrike that targeted Hamas leadership in Qatar, where ceasefire talks have stalled. The strike, conducted on the territory of a U.S. ally, drew international condemnation and heightened regional tensions, further jeopardizing efforts to end the conflict and secure the release of remaining hostages. Hamas has claimed that its top leadership survived the strike. EU to Freeze Support to Israel Von der Leyen also announced plans to freeze EU bilateral support to Israel provided by the Commission, a decision that does not require approval from EU member states. It was not immediately clear how much financial aid the Commission currently provides to Israel or what the funding supports. “We will suspend our bilateral assistance to Israel,” she told lawmakers, adding that payments will be halted in these areas but that support for Israeli civil society and institutions like Yad Vashem will continue. The European Commission also provides funding to the Palestinian Authority. Conflict Nearing Two-Year Mark The war in Gaza erupted on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants abducted 251 people and killed approximately 1,200 — mostly civilians — in southern Israel. According to Israeli authorities, 48 hostages remain in captivity in Gaza, with around 20 believed to still be alive. In response, Israel launched a large-scale military operation in Gaza, which has since killed more than 64,000 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry. While the ministry does not differentiate between civilian and combatant deaths, it reports that about half of the casualties were women and children. The United Nations and other international organizations generally view these figures as the most credible available. The conflict has devastated much of Gaza’s infrastructure, with major cities reduced to rubble. Approximately 90% of Gaza’s 2 million residents have been displaced.  

The Nepalese army was deployed to the streets of Kathmandu on Wednesday in a bid to restore order after days of escalating unrest, during which tens of thousands of demonstrators torched government buildings and targeted political figures. Armed troops patrolled major areas of the capital, enforcing a stay-at-home order and curfew while inspecting vehicles and questioning pedestrians. Their presence marked a shift toward stability after days of turmoil. The military, which is rarely called upon in such situations, had initially remained in its barracks while police struggled to contain the protests. In a statement issued late Tuesday, the army reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order and reported the arrest of 27 suspected looters. On Wednesday, soldiers fired warning shots as inmates at Kathmandu’s central prison overpowered guards, set fire to buildings, and attempted a mass escape. The military successfully prevented the breakout and relocated the prisoners. No injuries were reported. Violence peaked Tuesday as protesters set fire to government facilities and the homes of political leaders, prompting the resignation of Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli. His resignation did little to ease public anger, and large crowds continued to block roads and overrun government premises. Military helicopters evacuated several ministers to safety. The protests also caused security forces to abandon posts in various cities, allowing hundreds of prisoners to flee from detention centers. Protests Sparked by Social Media Ban Escalate The unrest began Monday with demonstrations led by youth outraged over the government's sudden ban on social media platforms, including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube. Police responded with live fire, killing 19 people, which further inflamed public anger. Although the ban was lifted on Tuesday, protests continued, fueled by allegations of political corruption and the fatal police response. President Ram Chandra Poudel, the ceremonial head of state, urged demonstrators to resolve the crisis peacefully and confirmed acceptance of Oli's resignation. Oli has been asked to head a caretaker administration, although his current location remains unclear. Dubbed the "Gen Z protests," the movement initially began over digital censorship but quickly broadened to include grievances over political privilege and economic disparity. Youth unemployment in Nepal remains high, with World Bank data from last year estimating it at around 20%. The government believes more than 2,000 young people leave the country daily to find work abroad, primarily in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Politicians and Institutions Under Attack Footage circulating on social media showed protesters assaulting former Prime Minister and Nepali Congress leader Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife, Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba. Both sustained injuries, with videos showing bystanders helping them to safety. The Nepali Congress, Nepal's largest political party, is part of the ruling coalition. By Wednesday, smoke still rose from key government buildings, including the parliament, the presidential residence, the prime minister's official residence, and the central secretariat. The headquarters of Kantipur Publications, the country’s leading media house, was also torched. Several car showrooms were burned, and damaged vehicles lined the streets. In addition to the 19 confirmed deaths, many others were injured. Prime Minister Oli has ordered an investigation into the use of lethal force and promised compensation to the victims’ families. Controversial Social Media Law at the Heart of Protests The violence comes amid the government's push for new legislation aimed at regulating social media platforms. Officials argue the law would ensure platforms are accountable and properly managed. However, critics, including rights groups, claim the bill would stifle free speech and silence dissent. Under the proposed law, social media companies must register locally and appoint a point of contact within Nepal. Around two dozen platforms were ordered to comply, and those that failed were blocked. As of now, platforms like TikTok, Viber, and a few others that completed registration remain accessible.

US President Donald Trump has said he is “not thrilled” about Israel’s air strike in Qatar, which killed five Hamas members and triggered widespread condemnation from across the world. The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended this attack as “fully justified,” targeted senior Hamas leaders accused of masterminding the 7 October 2023 attack on Israel that sparked the Gaza war. Hamas confirmed the deaths of five members, including the son of top negotiator Khalil al-Hayya, but said Israel failed to assassinate its political bureau members. The group denounced the strike in Doha as a “heinous crime” and a “flagrant violation of international law.” Qatar, a key US ally hosting an American air base and the Hamas political bureau since 2012, strongly condemned the assault as “cowardly” and a grave breach of its sovereignty. The interior ministry said one security officer was killed and others injured. Witnesses in Doha reported up to eight explosions in the Katara district. Trump told reporters: “I’m not thrilled about the whole situation. It’s not a good situation. We want the hostages back, but we are not thrilled about the way that went down today.” The White House later said the president had assured Qatar’s emir and prime minister that “such a thing will not happen again on their soil.” According to US officials, Trump had instructed envoy Steve Witkoff to inform Qatari authorities of the impending strike. The White House stressed that bombing inside a sovereign ally “does not advance Israel or America’s goals,” though it described eliminating Hamas as a “worthy” objective. Israel said the operation was carried out independently, involving 15 fighter jets that launched 10 munitions within seconds. Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz said the decision followed recent deadly attacks in Jerusalem and Gaza. Reactions poured in from around the world. The UN Secretary General António Guterres condemned the strike as a violation of Qatar’s sovereignty, while French President Emmanuel Macron called it “unacceptable regardless of motive.” UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned of further escalation, and Saudi Arabia denounced the “brutal aggression.” Pope Leo XIV said the situation was “very serious,” while families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza expressed deep anxiety that the strike could endanger their loved ones. Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid demanded the government clarify whether hostages’ safety had been considered. Hamas said its delegation had been discussing the latest US ceasefire proposal in Doha when the compound was hit. The plan reportedly includes a 60-day truce, the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, and talks on a permanent ceasefire. Netanyahu later told a gathering at the US embassy in Jerusalem that the strike could “open the door to an end of the war.” He urged Gazans to “stand up for your rights and your future” and accept peace. Israel has previously killed several top Hamas leaders, including Ismail Haniyeh in Iran in July 2024 and Yahya Sinwar in Gaza three months later. The Gaza war erupted after Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostage on 7 October 2023. Since then, Israeli strikes have killed at least 64,605 people in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

Nepal's Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli resigned on Tuesday following a wave of violent protests sparked by a recent ban on social media platforms. The demonstrations, which escalated into broader outrage over government corruption and elitism, resulted in the deaths of 19 people after police opened fire on protesters in the capital. The unrest began when the government blocked access to platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube, citing the companies’ failure to register with authorities. Although the ban was lifted on Tuesday, the protests continued, turning into a wider movement led by the country's youth — dubbed the "Gen Z protest." Anger over the social media restrictions quickly merged with growing frustration over alleged corruption among Nepal’s political elite. Demonstrators set fire to the homes of senior officials — including Oli’s private residence — and even targeted the parliament building. The international airport in Kathmandu was temporarily closed, and some government officials had to be airlifted to safety by military helicopters. The protesters, many of them young people struggling with high unemployment and lack of opportunity, were particularly incensed by the perceived privilege of the political class and their families — commonly referred to as “Nepo Kids.” According to the World Bank, youth unemployment reached 20% last year, and over 2,000 young Nepalis reportedly leave the country daily in search of work abroad. “I’m protesting because of the deep corruption in our country,” said student Bishnu Thapa Chetri. “There’s no future for us here.” Targeting Political Leaders Protesters stormed and torched the residences of top political figures from various parties, including the president, home minister, and leaders of both the ruling Nepali Congress and the opposition Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist). Oli’s family, however, was at the official residence during the attack. Authorities imposed a curfew and closed schools in Kathmandu, but demonstrations continued. Protesters demanded justice for those killed and called for the resignation of Prime Minister Oli, chanting slogans like “Punish the murderers in government” and “Stop killing children.” “We won’t stop until this corrupt regime is gone,” said protester Narayan Acharya, speaking outside the damaged parliament complex. Police Violence and Rising Death Toll Monday’s protests drew tens of thousands to Kathmandu’s streets, where demonstrators surrounded Parliament before police began firing live rounds into the crowd. Protesters chanted, “Stop the social media ban. Fight corruption, not free speech,” while waving national flags. Seven of the 19 who were killed were taken to the National Trauma Center, with many others in critical condition from gunshot wounds to the head and chest, according to hospital staff. Families gathered outside the facility waiting for updates, while many citizens volunteered to donate blood. Before stepping down, Oli announced the formation of an investigative panel to review the police shootings, with a report expected in 15 days. He also promised compensation for the victims’ families and free medical care for the injured. Social Media Crackdown Seen as Censorship The crisis unfolded alongside the government’s push to tighten control over social media through proposed legislation aimed at making platforms more accountable. Critics, however, view the bill as a move to suppress dissent and limit freedom of speech. The legislation would require social media companies to establish a local presence in Nepal. Human rights groups have condemned it as an infringement on civil liberties. While some platforms like TikTok and Viber have complied with government rules, major companies like Meta (owner of Facebook and Instagram), Google (YouTube), and X have not responded to the government's requests. TikTok was previously banned in 2023 for allegedly disrupting social harmony but was reinstated after agreeing to follow Nepali laws, including a pre-existing ban on pornographic content.