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Wednesday, February 4, 2026

Bangladesh’s Jamaat-e-Islami announces polls manifesto pledging inclusion of women in cabinet

Dhaka, Feb 4 (PTI): Bangladesh’s main Islamic party Jamaat-e-Islami on Wednesday announced a 41-point manifesto ahead of planned February 12 elections, pledging inclusion of women in the cabinet alongside reforms in the justice and economic sectors.Jamaat’s chief Shafiqur Rahman announced the manifesto, which pledged to include a "significant number of women in the cabinet" if the party was voted to power, though it did not field any female candidates. “The cabinet will reflect the diversity of the nation by ensuring representation of religious and ethnic communities and other historically under-represented sections of society,” the manifesto read. It also promised a safe working environment for women while upholding their dignity.It pledged that working hours for women during maternity would be reduced to five per day with the mother's consent. The Jamaat chief’s pledge came days after a screenshot of a post involving women was circulated from his verified X account on social media, but it was deleted immediately with the party claiming the account had been hacked. The party pledged to transform Bangladesh into a USD 2 trillion economy by 2040 and raise per capita income to USD 10,000.As of early 2026, the volume of the Bangladesh economy is approximately USD 475 billion in nominal terms, but if the Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) is estimated, the total volume is estimated at USD 1.78 trillion.According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics of early 2026, the per capita income in the country in 2026 is approximately USD 2,820. Former prime minister late Khaleda Zia’s Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), now led by her son Tarique Rahman since her death in December, emerged as the forerunner in the changed political landscape after a violent uprising toppled then prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League. BNP’s once ally, Jamaat-e-Islami, appeared as its main rival in the absence of Awami League, which was disbanded by Muhammad Yunus’ interim government.BNP is yet to announce its manifesto for the election, which is expected to end the unscheduled tenure of Yunus’ government. PTI AR RD RD RD(This story is published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. No editing has been done in the headline or the body by ABP Live.)

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/bangladesh-s-jamaat-e-islami-announces-polls-manifesto-pledging-inclusion-of-women-in-cabinet-1825500

‘Painful Times In My Marriage’: Melinda Gates Reacts To Epstein Files’ STD Claim Linked To Bill Gates

Melinda French Gates has spoken publicly after newly unsealed Jeffrey Epstein documents resurfaced allegations involving her former husband, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, saying the disclosures reopen deeply painful chapters from the end of her marriage. Her remarks come as millions of pages related to the disgraced financier are released by US authorities, renewing scrutiny of Epstein’s links with powerful figures. In an interview with NPR for a podcast, Melinda Gates reflected on how Bill Gates’s association with Epstein affected her personally, while firmly distancing herself from the allegations themselves. <h3>'Personally Hard' Memories Resurface</h3> Reacting to the renewed attention around Epstein, Melinda Gates said the revelations have been emotionally difficult. She said that it was personally difficult for her whenever those details were mentioned, as they reminded her of very painful moments in her marriage. She emphasised that the responsibility rested with the individuals named in the documents and not with her. She added that they were the ones who needed to respond to those matters, making it clear that she should not be expected to answer on their behalf. Her comments have come amid public discussion of whether Bill Gates’s past interactions with Epstein played a role in the end of their 27-year marriage, which concluded in divorce in 2021. <h3>Epstein Files & Allegations</h3> The remarks follow the release of millions of pages of documents by the US Department of Justice connected to Jeffrey Epstein, the financier and convicted sex offender who died in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges. Among the newly unsealed materials are draft emails allegedly written by Epstein in 2013. In those drafts, Epstein accused Bill Gates of contracting a sexually transmitted disease after “sex with Russian girls” and sought antibiotics that he claimed were to be secretly administered to Melinda Gates. One draft email suggested that Gates had asked for medication to be given without her knowledge. Another, written in the style of a resignation note, referred to assisting Gates in “deal with the consequences” of his alleged actions. However, it remains unclear whether these draft messages were ever sent. The documents indicate they were written by Epstein and stored in his own account, with no email address linked to Bill Gates appearing in the records. <h3>Divorce, Moving On & Call for Justice</h3> Melinda Gates did not address the specific allegations mentioned in the documents but spoke candidly about the emotional toll. “Sad. Just unbelievable sadness,” she said. “I left my marriage. I had to leave my marriage. I wanted to leave my marriage,” she said, as quoted by India Today She added that she has since moved forward with her life and expressed hope that women who were abused during Epstein’s activities would see accountability. According to her, the focus should remain on justice for those who were harmed. Bill Gates’s name appears in the latest tranche of around 3.5 million pages of Epstein-related records. In one draft message, Epstein wrote in the voice of Gates’s adviser, claiming to be caught in a “severe marital dispute between Melinda and Bill.”

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/melinda-gates-divorce-breaks-silence-after-epstein-files-surface-std-claim-linked-to-bill-gates-1825425

Tuesday, February 3, 2026

US Shoots Down Iranian Drone In Arabian Sea; Oil Prices Jump As Gulf Tensions Escalate

The United States military on Tuesday shot down an Iranian drone that it said “aggressively” approached the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier in the Arabian Sea, sharply escalating tensions at a moment when Washington and Tehran are weighing renewed nuclear talks. The incident unfolded against a backdrop of mounting pressure from President Donald Trump, who has warned that “bad things” are likely to happen if diplomacy fails, even as US warships move closer to Iran’s coast. News of the shootdown rippled through global markets, sending oil futures up by more than $1 a barrel. <h2>Drone Shot Down as Talks Hang in the Balance</h2> According to the US military, the Iranian Shahed-139 drone was flying toward the carrier with “unclear intent” when it was intercepted and destroyed by an F-35 fighter jet. The jet was launched from the Abraham Lincoln, one of the most powerful symbols of America’s expanding naval presence in the Middle East. “An F-35C fighter jet from Abraham Lincoln shot down the Iranian drone in self-defense and to protect the aircraft carrier and personnel on board,” said Navy Capt. Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for US Central Command, as reported by Reuters. He said no American service members were injured and no US equipment was damaged. <h2>Iran Responds Cautiously as Markets React</h2> Iran’s mission to the United Nations declined to comment on the incident. Meanwhile, Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency reported that contact had been lost with a drone operating in international waters, but said the cause was not known. The confrontation comes as diplomats on both sides work to arrange possible nuclear negotiations. Trump has demanded new concessions from Tehran following a violent crackdown on anti-government protests last month — the deadliest internal unrest Iran has seen since its 1979 Islamic Revolution. While the US president stopped short of direct military intervention during the crackdown, he has since ordered a flotilla of warships toward the region, signalling a tougher stance. Trump said last week that Iran was “seriously talking,” while Ali Larijani, Iran’s top security official, confirmed that arrangements for negotiations were underway.

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/iranian-drone-shot-down-by-us-in-arabian-sea-oil-prices-jump-as-gulf-tensions-escalate-1825322

Monday, February 2, 2026

US Tariff On India: How Much Duty Will Washington Levy Now? Lower Than China, Pak And Bangladesh

The United States and India have reached a new trade agreement that is being seen as a significant development in bilateral relations. Under the deal, the US has reduced import tariffs on Indian goods from 50 per cent to 18 per cent. The decision was taken by US President Donald Trump. Earlier, high tariffs on Indian products had been hurting Indian exporters. According to PTI, the US had been levying a total tariff of 50 per cent on goods imported from India, which included a 25 per cent standard tariff and an additional 25 per cent surcharge. The extra duty was imposed due to India’s purchase of crude oil from Russia. Under the new agreement, the US has withdrawn this additional levy linked to Russian oil imports, leaving Indian goods subject to an 18 per cent tariff. <h2>India Gains Edge Over Other Countries</h2> Following the latest decision, India’s position has improved compared to several other countries. The US continues to impose tariffs of 37 per cent on China, 50 per cent on Brazil and 30 per cent on South Africa. Bangladesh and Vietnam face a 20 per cent tariff, while Pakistan and Malaysia are subject to a 19 per cent levy. With lower tariffs, Indian products are expected to become more competitive in the US market, potentially boosting exports. <h2>Impact of Trump–Modi talks</h2> President Trump said on social media platform Truth Social that he had spoken with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The discussion covered trade as well as the Russia–Ukraine war. According to Trump, India has agreed to reduce its purchase of Russian oil and increase imports from the US. Reports suggest that India’s imports of Russian crude oil fell to around 1.2 million barrels per day in January 2026. <h2>PM Modi Calls It A Major Achievement</h2> Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the decision, saying it would provide a major boost to “Made in India” products. He said lower tariffs would make Indian companies more competitive in the US market and help generate new employment opportunities. However, several aspects of the trade deal remain unclear. It is yet to be confirmed when the revised tariff structure will come into effect and which US products India will import in larger quantities. Both governments are expected to release the full framework of the agreement in the coming days. Overall, the trade deal is being viewed as a major step towards strengthening India’s economy, exports and role in global trade.

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/us-tariff-on-india-how-much-duty-will-washington-levy-now-lower-than-china-pakistan-and-bangladesh-1825134

300 trees planted in Israel to celebrate PM Modi's 'Ek Ped Maa ke Naam' initiative, Jewish Festival of Tu Bishvat

Nevatim (Israel), Feb 2 (PTI): At least 300 trees were planted in Moshav Nevatim, Israel to jointly celebrated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Ek Ped Maa ke Naam' initiative along with the Jewish festival of Tu Bishvat, which is celebrated as an ecological awareness day in Israel. The event, which saw participation of hundreds of people, was organised by the Embassy of India in collaboration with Keren Kayemet LeIsrael and Moshav Nevatim symbolising a shared commitment to environmental sustainability, community participation, and people-to-people ties between India and Israel, a press statement released after the event said. Rami Rozen, Director General of Israel's Ministry of Environmental Protection, JP Singh, Ambassador of India to Israel, and Nir Zamir, Head of Bnei Shimon Regional Council, participated in the event with each one of them highlighting the shared commitment of India and Israel towards environmental protection and sustainable development. "Both Tu Bishvat and Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam place trees at the centre of community engagement and sustainable living. These shared practices reflect the deep cultural connections and strong people-to-people ties between India and Israel, underscoring the importance both our nations place on nature, community, and shared values", Singh told the gathering. I firmly believe that these trees will stand as enduring symbols of India–Israel friendship, carrying this bond forward to future generations, the Indian envoy stressed. While underlining the strong India-Israel strategic partnership, the dignitaries emphasised on the collective responsibility of present and future generations towards protecting mother earth. "Today's event symbolises the close relationship between Israel and India. The two countries are currently cooperating in many fields, particularly in climate and environmental fields. Beyond our shared aspiration for innovation, we also share a common spirit—a recognition that protecting nature is an integral part of protecting life", Rozen said. "I am confident that the trees we are planting today will take deep root and grow for many years, serving as a tangible expression of the strong friendship between Israel and India and of our shared commitment to safeguarding nature and building a green and sustainable future. Just as trees need stable ground to grow, so too is the relationship between our peoples rooted in shared values, partnership, and hope for generations to come, the Israeli senior official asserted. Nevatim was founded by Indian Jews from Cochin and continues to reflect that heritage, including a synagogue designed in the spirit of a traditional Cochini synagogue. It also hosts the Indian Jewish Heritage Center, cherishing values and traditions of Jews of India, and attracted wide publicity when in November last year a statue of Indian Maharaja Jam Sahib was unveiled in the Moshav in recognition of his extraordinary humanitarian efforts in saving Jewish and Polish children during the Second World War. Singh in his speech mentioned how PM Modi spoke warmly about the noble gesture at Moshav Nevatim of recognising the Maharaja's efforts amid applause from the gathering. "The tree-planting event held today at Moshav Nevatim carries two particularly important community messages: the first is a connection to the land, a foremost Zionist act; the second is a connection to the proud roots of the Cochin Jewish community here in Moshav Nevatim", Zamir said. "The Moshav community is warm and close-knit, a community that feels like home to all its members. I am confident that the planting of 300 trees today will further strengthen the familial fabric, whose roots are connected from the Negev all the way to India", he added. PTI HM NB NB(This story is published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. No editing has been done in the headline or the body by ABP Live.)

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/300-trees-planted-in-israel-to-celebrate-pm-modi-s-ek-ped-maa-ke-naam-initiative-jewish-festival-of-tu-bishvat-1825131

Russia not a mediator in resolving Pakistan’s ties with India, Afghanistan: MFA

Moscow, Feb 2 (PTI): Russia on Monday said that it is not a mediator in resolving Pakistan’s tensions with India and Afghanistan, adding that it is ready to provide any assistance if requested. The Foreign Ministry has posted answers to several questions received for Sergei Lavrov’s annual press conference on January 20, which could not be given by the Minister due to time constraint. In response to a question on how Russia see the role of a mediator in reducing tensions in relations between Pakistan, India and Afghanistan? The Russian Foreign Ministry said on its webportal, “Russia does not act as a mediator between the aforementioned states.” “However, we are always ready to provide any assistance we can in resolving any differences between these countries should they so request,” it added. Moscow has been insisting that Islamabad should resolve its problems in the spirit of the 1972 Simla and 1999 Lahore declarations bilaterally. In response to the question: How does Russia assess its strategic and economic relations with Pakistan, particularly in the areas of energy, trade, and projects to establish regional connections? The MFA said that in 2025, a number of important bilateral meetings took place at the leadership level of Russia and Pakistan, including a meeting of President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the sidelines of the SCO summit in China. "This density of political contacts undoubtedly reflects the desire of both countries to expand mutually beneficial cooperation," it added. On the economic front, the most important event of 2025 was the 10th meeting of the Russian-Pakistani Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, and Technical Cooperation. The MFA said that among the promising projects being developed are the restoration of the Karachi metallurgical plant built with Soviet assistance, cooperation in pharmaceuticals (specifically, insulin production), and the organisation of trial transcontinental freight transport within the International North-South Transport Corridor.A Programme for the Development of Trade and Economic Cooperation between Russia and Pakistan until 2030 is expected to be adopted, it added. Possibilities for Russian companies to participate in oil and gas projects in Pakistan, as well as for arranging domestic energy supplies, are being explored. Several Russian regions, including the Republic of Tatarstan and Primorsky Krai, are interested in developing direct cooperation with Pakistani provinces, it said. PTI VS RD RD(This story is published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. No editing has been done in the headline or the body by ABP Live.)

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/russia-not-a-mediator-in-resolving-pakistan-s-ties-with-india-afghanistan-mfa-1825130

‘Movers & Shakers’: Trump Shares Magazine Cover Featuring PM Modi Amid India–US Trade Talks

US President Donald Trump spoke with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the US envoy to India, Sergio Gor, confirmed on social media platform X. The conversation comes against the backdrop of ongoing India–US trade negotiations and tariff tensions, including the United States’ decision to impose steep duties on Indian imports and broader differences over oil imports. Hours before the call, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform welcoming investment from India and China in Venezuela’s oil sector and shared a news magazine cover featuring himself and Modi titled “Newsmakers of the Year 2025,” captioning it “The mover & the shaker.” <h3 data-start="255" data-end="705">Trump Highlights India Gate On Social</h3> He also shared an image of New Delhi’s India Gate, describing it as a “beautiful triumphal arch.” The conversation takes place amid trade tensions over US tariffs on India, including a 50% levy linked to New Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian crude, a move that has complicated bilateral trade talks and raised concerns among Indian exporters. Trump has also asserted that several countries, including India are expected to begin importing oil from Venezuela, citing recent legal reforms that opened the sector to private investment. <h3 data-start="255" data-end="705">Tariff Tensions Shape US–India Talks</h3> His comments come as the US seeks to shift energy supply dynamics and reduce reliance on Russian crude. Their previous call occurred on December 11, shortly after President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, when both leaders reviewed progress in bilateral ties. PM Modi had noted Trump’s satisfaction with the “steady strengthening” of the India–US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, with the two agreeing to continue cooperation on regional and global challenges.

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/us-trump-modi-trade-tensions-magazine-cover-mover-shaker-sergio-gor-oil-tariffs-call-1825125