Shibbir Ahmed, New York: U.S. President Donald Trump has ruled out any immediate negotiations with Iran, as the standoff over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz deepens and uncertainty over global energy supplies continues to grow.

Trump said Tuesday, August 18, that no talks were currently taking place with Tehran and that none were scheduled. His comments came as Iran insisted that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed to shipping and said the waterway would stay shut until the United States meets its demands.

The conflicting claims have added to uncertainty surrounding one of the world’s most important energy corridors. The Strait of Hormuz carries roughly one-fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, making prolonged disruption a major concern for energy markets and the global economy.

No Talks With Tehran

Trump’s statement marked a sharp departure from earlier suggestions that diplomatic contacts might resume. Iran has indicated that it is willing to discuss the conflict, but Tehran has demanded significant concessions, including an end to the U.S. blockade, the release of frozen Iranian assets and other measures before normal shipping through the strait can resume.

Trump, however, has rejected the idea that Washington is currently negotiating with Tehran and has continued to maintain pressure on Iran.

The breakdown follows the expiration of a 60-day U.S.-Iran memorandum that had been intended to provide time for negotiations toward a broader agreement. The arrangement expired without a lasting peace deal, leaving the two sides further apart.

Hormuz Traffic Falls Sharply

Despite Trump’s assertion that the Strait of Hormuz is open, commercial shipping through the waterway remains severely restricted.

According to Kpler data cited by Reuters, only six commodity vessels passed through the strait on Tuesday, down from nine the previous day and below the recent average of about 11 daily transits. Major shipowners continue to avoid the waterway because of security concerns.

The decline in shipping has raised concerns about the continued flow of oil and gas from the Persian Gulf.

China, one of the world’s largest buyers of Middle Eastern energy, is particularly exposed to the disruption. Two major Chinese shipping companies that previously transported a substantial share of China’s Middle Eastern oil imports have stopped operating through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb.

Oil Prices Under Pressure

The uncertainty has already affected global energy markets. Brent crude was trading around $91.20 a barrel on Wednesday, August 19, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was around $85.10 a barrel. Both benchmarks had reached their highest levels since late July before retreating slightly.

Analysts say the continuing risk surrounding Hormuz is keeping a geopolitical premium in oil prices. If the disruption persists or the conflict escalates, crude prices could move substantially higher again.

The implications extend beyond gasoline and transportation costs. Higher energy prices can increase inflationary pressure, raise production and shipping costs, and complicate economic policy for governments around the world.

Iran Says Strait Will Remain Closed

Iran has maintained that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until Washington meets conditions Tehran considers necessary for reopening the waterway. The Iranian position directly contradicts Trump’s assertion that the strait remains open and safe.

The standoff has effectively created two competing realities: Washington says commercial shipping can use the waterway, while Tehran maintains that normal passage will not resume until its demands are addressed. That uncertainty itself has become a major problem for shipping companies, insurers and energy traders.

Regional Tensions Escalate

The crisis is no longer limited to the United States and Iran. The United Arab Emirates announced Wednesday that it had suspended financial and economic transactions with Iran following what it said were Iranian missile launches toward maritime areas. Iran denied the UAE’s allegations.

The UAE’s decision represents another significant escalation because the country has historically been an important commercial and financial channel for Iran despite extensive U.S. sanctions.

The crisis has also affected shipping beyond the Gulf, with security concerns extending to the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandeb waterway.

Washington and Tehran Remain Far Apart

The collapse of the latest diplomatic effort leaves little indication of an immediate breakthrough. Iran wants sanctions relief, an end to the U.S. blockade, the release of frozen assets and compensation related to the conflict. Trump has rejected Iran’s demands and has continued to apply economic and military pressure.

Both sides have also accused the other of blocking the path to peace. The result is a dangerous stalemate: the United States says it wants Iran to accept an agreement on its nuclear program and broader security concerns, while Tehran insists that Washington must first change its own military and economic policies.

Global Economic Consequences

The Strait of Hormuz crisis is being closely watched far beyond the Middle East. A prolonged disruption could affect energy-importing economies across Asia and Europe, particularly countries heavily dependent on Gulf oil and gas.

Higher crude prices could also increase inflation at a time when central banks are attempting to balance economic growth with price stability. Reuters reported that financial markets have already been reacting to the broader U.S.-Iran confrontation, with concerns over energy disruptions contributing to higher borrowing costs and renewed inflation fears.

A Critical Test for Diplomacy

For now, the immediate question is whether Washington and Tehran can return to negotiations before the Hormuz crisis becomes a longer-term disruption to global trade. Trump has ruled out current or scheduled talks, while Iran continues to link the reopening of the waterway to political and economic concessions.

Meanwhile, commercial vessels are avoiding the strait, oil prices remain elevated and regional tensions continue to spread. The longer the standoff lasts, the greater the risk that the Strait of Hormuz becomes not only a flashpoint in the U.S.-Iran conflict but also a major source of instability for the global economy.

For the international community, the stakes extend well beyond the Middle East: the future of one of the world’s most important shipping routes—and the stability of global energy markets—may depend on whether diplomacy can be restored.

Shibbir Ahmed: A high-level U.S. business delegation representing 25 American companies has arrived in Dhaka to explore new investment opportunities in Bangladesh, highlighting growing interest among leading U.S. businesses in the country’s energy, technology, agriculture, and financial sectors.

The executive delegation of the U.S.-Bangladesh Business Council (USBBC) arrived in Dhaka on August 11 and participated in meetings and business programs through August 13. Representatives of major American companies, including Chevron, Excelerate Energy, Visa, and Mastercard, were among those taking part in the visit.

The delegation’s visit is being viewed as an important initiative to deepen the longstanding economic relationship between Bangladesh and the United States, which spans more than five decades.

U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen welcomed the delegation to Dhaka, saying that leading American companies from the energy, technology, agriculture, and finance sectors had come to explore opportunities and build on more than 50 years of U.S.-Bangladesh economic ties.

Focus on Trade and Investment

The delegation’s primary objective is to explore new investment opportunities and potential business partnerships in Bangladesh. Energy, infrastructure, technology, digital services, healthcare, agriculture, and financial services are among the sectors attracting particular attention from U.S. businesses.

During meetings with Bangladeshi officials, representatives of the U.S. business community discussed ways to expand bilateral trade and investment and strengthen private-sector cooperation.

The delegation also met with Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir, with discussions focusing on expanding economic relations and creating greater opportunities for U.S. investment in areas including industry, infrastructure, energy, technology, the digital economy, and healthcare.

Atul Keshap, President of the U.S.-Bangladesh Business Council and a former U.S. ambassador, also emphasized the potential for expanding business cooperation between the two countries.

$5 Billion Investment Goal

The U.S. business delegation’s visit comes as the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) has set an ambitious target for mobilizing additional U.S. investment in Bangladesh.

AmCham has said it aims to help mobilize up to $5 billion in additional U.S. investment over the next five years, involving existing member companies as well as potential new American investors.

The investment target was discussed during an August 11 meeting between Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and an AmCham executive delegation.

The discussions also covered measures to improve Bangladesh’s investment climate, including reforms related to taxation, value-added tax, customs procedures, and other issues affecting businesses.

AmCham has said that its member companies have already invested more than $5 billion in Bangladesh. If the new investment target is achieved, the U.S. corporate presence in Bangladesh could expand significantly.

Energy and Technology Attract Strong Interest

The participation of companies such as Chevron and Excelerate Energy underscores the importance of Bangladesh’s energy sector to American investors.

Bangladesh has growing demand for reliable energy and infrastructure, creating potential opportunities for U.S. companies with expertise in energy production, liquefied natural gas, infrastructure, and related technologies.

The participation of global financial technology companies such as Visa and Mastercard also points to growing interest in Bangladesh’s rapidly developing digital economy and financial-services sector.

With a large population, expanding consumer market, growing digital economy, and increasing demand for infrastructure and energy, Bangladesh offers a range of potential opportunities for international investors.

New Opportunities Following the Trade Agreement

The U.S. business delegation’s visit comes several months after Bangladesh and the United States signed the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade earlier this year.

The agreement created a new framework for expanding bilateral trade and improving market access between the two countries.

Against this backdrop, the business delegation’s visit can be viewed as more than a routine commercial engagement. It represents an effort to translate recent progress in government-to-government economic relations into concrete investment, business partnerships, and private-sector cooperation.

For Bangladesh, increased U.S. investment could bring more than capital. New investments could also contribute to technology transfer, skills development, employment generation, and greater integration into global supply chains.

For American companies, Bangladesh represents a large and evolving South Asian market with opportunities in manufacturing, energy, digital services, financial technology, infrastructure, and consumer-oriented businesses.

A New Chapter in Economic Relations?

For more than five decades, Bangladesh-U.S. economic relations have been strongly associated with trade, particularly Bangladesh’s ready-made garment exports to the American market. Recent developments, however, suggest that the economic relationship could be entering a broader phase.

The visit by U.S. Special Envoy Sergio Gor to Bangladesh earlier this month, followed by the arrival of the high-level U.S. business delegation and AmCham’s $5 billion investment target, indicates growing engagement not only between the two governments but also between the private sectors of both countries.

The challenge now will be turning growing investor interest into actual projects. To attract and retain more U.S. investment, Bangladesh will need to maintain policy stability, improve transparency, streamline regulatory procedures, strengthen infrastructure, and ensure a more predictable business environment.

The latest U.S. business delegation’s visit therefore represents both an opportunity and a test for Bangladesh. Whether the growing interest of American companies can be converted into long-term investment, new jobs, technology partnerships, and expanded trade will be an important measure of the next phase of Bangladesh-U.S. economic relations.

Shibbir Ahmed, Washington, D.C.: Bangladesh-U.S. bilateral relations appear to be entering a new phase, with growing engagement on trade and investment alongside broader discussions on strategic cooperation, regional security, and the Rohingya crisis. The two countries’ trade agreement earlier this year and the recent visit to Bangladesh by U.S. Special Envoy for South and Central Asia Sergio Gor have brought renewed attention to the economic and strategic dimensions of the relationship.

Gor visited Bangladesh from July 30 to August 1. Following the visit, the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka said the trip underscored the breadth and depth of the Bangladesh-U.S. relationship and reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to strengthening bilateral strategic and economic ties.

Renewed Interest in Investment

During a meeting with Sergio Gor, Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman called for greater U.S. investment and stronger economic engagement between the two countries. The discussions covered trade, investment, the Rohingya crisis, and a range of issues of mutual interest.

Gor expressed a positive assessment of Bangladesh’s political and economic stability. He pointed to recent positive developments in the country and suggested that changes in the U.S. travel advisory could send a favorable message to American investors about Bangladesh as an investment destination.

The two sides also discussed potential U.S. investment in Bangladesh and opportunities for financing through the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC). The possibility of a future visit to Bangladesh by a delegation from the U.S.-Bangladesh Business Council was also discussed.

If these initiatives translate into concrete projects, they could expand opportunities for U.S. companies in areas such as infrastructure, energy, technology, manufacturing, and other emerging sectors.

A New Framework for Trade Relations

One of the most significant recent developments in Bangladesh-U.S. economic relations has been the signing of the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) earlier this year. Signed on February 9, 2026, the agreement seeks to expand market access and provide a new framework for bilateral trade. According to information from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, Bangladesh has committed to providing various market-access benefits for U.S. industrial and agricultural products, including machinery, medical equipment, information and communications technology products, energy-related products, and agricultural goods.

For Bangladesh, access to the U.S. market, export opportunities, and increased American investment remain important economic priorities. Against this backdrop, Gor’s visit can also be viewed as part of the broader effort to translate the commitments of the February trade agreement into deeper commercial and investment ties.

Strategic Importance Beyond Economics

Bangladesh’s geographic position also adds a strategic dimension to its relationship with the United States. Located along the Bay of Bengal and within the broader Indo-Pacific region, Bangladesh has increasing economic and geopolitical significance.

During Gor’s visit, discussions extended beyond trade and investment to issues related to regional cooperation and security. There are also opportunities for expanding bilateral cooperation in areas such as technology, investment, and security.

Recent international analyses have highlighted the growing strategic engagement between Washington and Dhaka. Bangladesh’s expanding economic relationship with China, changing dynamics with India, and the broader competition among major powers in the Bay of Bengal have all contributed to increased international attention toward Bangladesh.

However, viewing Bangladesh-U.S. relations solely through the lens of competition with China or India would overlook the broader interests shaping the bilateral relationship. Trade, investment, security, technology, and humanitarian cooperation all have their own significance in the relationship.

Rohingya Crisis Remains a Major Area of Cooperation

The Rohingya crisis remains another important pillar of Bangladesh-U.S. relations. During his Bangladesh visit, Sergio Gor visited a Rohingya refugee camp in Ukhia, Cox’s Bazar. Rohingya representatives called for continued international support for a safe, voluntary, sustainable, and dignified repatriation process.

Bangladesh has hosted a large Rohingya refugee population since hundreds of thousands fled violence in Myanmar. The country has repeatedly sought stronger international support for humanitarian assistance and a sustainable solution to the crisis. The United States remains an important humanitarian partner for Bangladesh on the Rohingya issue. As a result, humanitarian cooperation continues to complement the broader economic and strategic relationship between the two countries.

Why Bangladesh Matters More to Washington

Bangladesh is one of South Asia’s major economies, with a large consumer market and a substantial workforce. Its manufacturing base, particularly the ready-made garment sector, along with its growing services and technology sectors, offers opportunities for foreign investors.

For the United States, Bangladesh is an important trading partner and a potentially significant market for American companies. For Bangladesh, the United States remains one of its most important export destinations.

This creates a degree of economic interdependence between the two countries. Washington has an interest in expanding trade and investment opportunities in Bangladesh, while Dhaka is seeking greater access to the U.S. market, more American investment, technology cooperation, and stronger economic partnerships. Bangladesh’s location along the Bay of Bengal and its role in the wider Indo-Pacific further enhance its importance.

Implementation Will Be the Real Test

Despite the recent diplomatic momentum, the key question is whether political engagement and economic agreements will translate into measurable long-term results. The implementation of commitments under the Reciprocal Trade Agreement, the level of interest shown by U.S. companies in new investments in Bangladesh, and the future trajectory of bilateral trade will help determine the next phase of the relationship.

At the same time, Bangladesh will need to maintain a balanced foreign policy while protecting its economic interests and managing relations with major powers, including the United States, China, and India.

Recent developments suggest that Bangladesh-U.S. relations are no longer limited to traditional trade or garment exports. Trade, investment, technology, humanitarian cooperation, regional security, and Indo-Pacific geopolitics are increasingly shaping a broader and more multidimensional partnership.

Sergio Gor’s visit and the Reciprocal Trade Agreement signed earlier this year are two significant indicators of this evolving relationship. The next challenge will be turning the current diplomatic and economic momentum into sustained, mutually beneficial partnership.

Shibbir Ahmed, New York: The 44th annual ‘India Day Parade’ was held in Manhattan, New York, on Sunday, August 16, as part of celebrations marking India’s 80th Independence Day. The grand parade along Madison Avenue showcased the rich culture, heritage, and diversity of India. Thousands of people participated in the parade, while large crowds gathered along both sides of the avenue to enjoy the festivities.

Organized by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), this year’s parade carried the theme ‘Harmony in Heritage.’ According to the organizers, the event is one of the largest celebrations of Indian culture in the United States.

The parade began around noon on Madison Avenue. The procession came alive with the participation of various cultural and social organizations, business groups, regional associations, marching bands, and dance troupes. According to information released by the organizers, more than 40 colorful floats and over 50 marching groups took part in this year’s celebration.

Floats decorated in the three colors of the Indian national flag—saffron, white, and green—made their way along Madison Avenue. Traditional clothing, dance, music, and cultural performances representing different Indian states and regions showcased the country’s remarkable cultural diversity. Indian-Americans of all ages, from children and teenagers to senior members of the community, participated in the parade.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul, along with elected officials, political leaders, business leaders, and community representatives, attended the parade. Governor Hochul joined the opening ceremony and participated in the procession alongside other distinguished guests.

Indian film and entertainment personalities were also among the major attractions of this year’s parade. Actress Pooja Hegde was one of the special guests. Cast members and performers from the popular Indian television show ‘Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’ also took part in the parade, drawing enthusiastic responses from spectators.

The parade created a festive atmosphere throughout Madison Avenue and the surrounding areas. Large crowds lined the streets, many holding Indian flags and cheering as the procession passed by. The participation of children and young people was particularly notable.

For New York’s Indian-American community, the India Day Parade is more than a celebration of India’s Independence Day. It is also an important occasion for preserving and passing on Indian culture and heritage to younger generations living in the diaspora. At the same time, the parade highlights the contributions of Indian-Americans to the multicultural society of the United States.

According to organizers, the celebrations extended beyond the parade, with food, cultural, and entertainment programs taking place throughout the day. Food vendors, cultural performances, and community booths were set up around Madison Avenue, adding to the festive atmosphere.

The weekend-long India Day celebrations began on Saturday with the hoisting of the Indian national flag at Times Square and a special lighting of the Empire State Building in the colors of the Indian flag. Sunday’s grand parade brought the weekend’s celebrations to a colorful conclusion.

The 44th ‘India Day Parade’ in the heart of Manhattan once again highlighted India’s culture, heritage, and the unity of the Indian diaspora. Under the theme ‘Harmony in Heritage,’ this year’s celebration also emphasized the strong cultural ties between India and the United States.

Note: There are slight differences among reports regarding the parade route. According to official FIA information, the route ran along Madison Avenue from East 38th Street to East 27th Street. NBC New York described the route as covering 13 blocks between East 39th Street and East 26th Street.

BOGURA CORRESPONDENT: Alamgir Hossain, an executive member of the Helping Hand Foundation and a Bangladeshi expatriate living in the United States, recently visited Bogura to observe the foundation’s humanitarian activities and meet people who have benefited from its various support programs.

Arriving in Bogura from Dhaka, Hossain, accompanied by his family members, toured several of the foundation’s ongoing initiatives and spoke directly with beneficiaries. He also followed up with people who had previously received assistance from the organization, including financial support, sewing machines, and help with house construction.

During the visit, Hossain personally distributed clothing and cash assistance among beneficiaries. He also listened to their experiences and learned about their current living conditions and the impact of the support they had received from the foundation.

Hossain was accompanied by his wife, one son, and two daughters. Together, they visited several of the foundation’s humanitarian initiatives aimed at supporting underprivileged and disadvantaged people in Bogura.

Foundation officials said the Helping Hand Foundation has been carrying out a range of programs not only to provide immediate humanitarian assistance but also to improve the livelihoods and living standards of disadvantaged people.

They described Hossain’s visit and his direct involvement in the assistance programs as a positive and encouraging development, particularly because he continues to remain connected with the foundation’s activities while living abroad.

At the conclusion of the visit, foundation representatives expressed their gratitude to Alamgir Hossain and his family for their support and participation. They said they hope such humanitarian initiatives will continue in the future for the welfare of vulnerable and underprivileged communities.

JHENAIDAH – Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hussain has said that, under the Prime Minister’s directives, all upazila health complexes across the country will be transformed into modern nine-storey health complexes within the next three years.

“A long-term plan has been taken to upgrade all 50-bed upazila health complexes in the country into 151-bed hospitals within the next three years,” he said while responding to queries from reporters after making surprise visits to the Maheshpur and Kotchandpur upazila health complexes in the district today.

He said the country’s healthcare sector had been seriously neglected during the 17-year rule of the “fascist Awami League government”. “Looting took place in all sectors, and extensive looting also occurred in the healthcare sector. There was a lack of accountability, which disrupted health services,” he said.

Corruption had also taken place in the purchase of medicines for hospitals during the fascist government, Sakhawat said, adding the government wants to bring the country’s health sector and medical system under a new discipline.

“We have undertaken long-term plans to address the shortage of doctors and medicines and to make services easier for patients. We will not compromise in implementing the plans to restore public confidence in government healthcare services,” he continued.

He said that after the 151-bed upazila health complexes are launched, the hospitals will have a special 25-bed ward for pregnant women and a separate 20-bed ward for children. “We have also taken plans to introduce services such as kidney dialysis at these hospitals. Once these are implemented, the country’s health sector and the system of medical services will be transformed,” he said.

Earlier in the morning, the Health Minister visited different wards of the Maheshpur and Kotchandpur upazila health complexes. During the visits, he enquired about the overall condition of patients receiving treatment at the hospitals. He also spoke with patients and their attendants about the quality of healthcare services and food at the hospitals. Later, he visited the Kaliganj Upazila Health Complex.

DHAKA- The Election Commission (EC) has declared valid the nomination papers of Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the nominee of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and Dr Oli Ahmed, Bir Bikram, candidate from the Jamaat-e-Islami-led 11-party alliance, in the presidential polls. At Nirbachan Bhaban in the capital today, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin declared their nomination papers valid after verification.

He informed a BNP delegation, led by its standing committee member Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, that the nomination papers of Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir have been accepted as valid. Earlier, the CEC accepted the nomination papers of 11-party alliance Oli Ahmed Bir Bikram as valid. The presidential election will be held on August 20. The scrutiny of nomination papers began at 11:00 am today (Sunday).

The two candidates submitted their nomination papers on the last day of the presidential election on August 13. On Thursday last, BNP submitted the nomination papers of Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir to the CEC at Nirbachan Bhaban. On the other hand, the 11-party alliance submitted its nomination papers in favour of Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Chairman Colonel (retd) Oli Ahmed.

EC Secretariat Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said the last date for withdrawal of candidacy is 4:00 pm on August 18 (Tuesday). Voting will be held in the session hall of Jatiya Sangsad from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm on August 20 (Thursday), he said.

KISHOREGANJ (Pakundia) – Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today said the government wants to build Bangladesh as a welfare state through people-oriented initiatives to improve people’s living standards. In this connection, he urged all to remain patient and vigilant against attempts to create disorder and impede the country’s development.

“Our goal is to build a welfare state. That is why we are taking various measures for the welfare of the people. We have already started implementing different programmes, including the Family Card,” he said.

The Prime Minister made the remarks while addressing a public gathering after releasing fish fry into the Brahmaputra River at Mirzapur Chairman Bari Ghat in Pakundia this afternoon. Referring to the support extended by thousands of people to his government’s development plans, he said the people would benefit if the plans are implemented properly.

“So, I want to tell you to maintain the trust you placed in the party in the February 12 election,” he said. The Prime Minister urged the people to keep their trust in the BNP and assured them that the party would remain committed to their welfare and the country’s development.

“The government was formed with the support of the people. You placed your trust in the BNP through that support. I want to make it clear: InshaAllah, maintain that trust. The BNP was with you, is with the people of Bangladesh and will remain with the people of Bangladesh,” he added. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said the BNP would work for the people of Bangladesh and, as long as the party exists, would not undertake any action contrary to the interests of the country and its people.

Criticising various unplanned measures taken by the previous government in the power and energy sector, Tarique Rahman said those measures had contributed to the current crisis. Referring to the next session of parliament, scheduled to begin on August 27, he said the government would present its plan there to address the country’s power-related problems over the next 10 years.

The Prime Minister also urged all to remain alert against those trying to create disorder on the streets. He said, “A small number of people are trying to create disorder on the streets. If disorder is created on the streets, ordinary people suffer the most. Their businesses are affected, their jobs are affected and their livelihoods are disrupted. But those who create disorder benefit from it.”

“Today, let us take an oath and pledge that those who work against the interests of the country, create disorder or obstruct various programmes taken in the public interest will be resisted by the people with all their collective strength,” he added.

Tarique Rahman said the people of the country now want peace, the rule of law, employment, education for their children and healthcare for their families. “If we are to accomplish these tasks, we must remain patient. At the same time, we must remain vigilant about those who are creating disorder,” he said.

After arriving in Pakundia, the Prime Minister first released fish fry into the Brahmaputra River at Mirzapur Chairman Bari Ghat. He later took the stage at the gathering, where thousands of party leaders and activists greeted him with applauses. Lawmaker Fazlur Rahman and other leaders were present at the programme.

Shibbir Ahmed, Jackson Heights, New York: A commemorative program marking the 51st death anniversary of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and National Mourning Day was held in Jackson Heights, New York, with due respect and solemnity. The daylong program included a memorial gathering, prayer session, blood donation drive, and distribution of food and prayer mats.

The program was organized by the Jackson Heights Elakabashi on Saturday, August 15, in front of Nabanna Restaurant at 37-22, 73rd Street, Jackson Heights. The blood donation drive began at 1:00 p.m., followed by the distribution of food and prayer mats from 3:00 p.m.

At the beginning of the program, prayers were offered for the eternal peace and forgiveness of those who lost their lives during the month of August. Imam Kazi Qayum led the prayers and supplication. Following the prayer session, food and prayer mats were distributed among those attending the program.

According to the organizers, five cows were slaughtered for the event, and food and tabarruk were distributed among approximately 1,500 people. Fresh mango juice was also prepared and distributed among members of the general public. Prayer mats were also distributed. Chief Coordinator Shah J. Chowdhury said approximately 40 people voluntarily donated blood during the blood donation program.

President of Jackson Heights Elakabashi Sakil Mia, General Secretary Mohammad Alam Nomi, Convener Mir Nizamul Haque, Member Secretary Mamun Miaji, Chairman Redwanul Haque, Chief Coordinator Shah J. Chowdhury, and other leaders and representatives of the organization were present at the event.

Speakers at the program recalled the August 15, 1975 assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and members of his family. They prayed for the eternal peace and forgiveness of all those who were killed during August and remembered the events of August 15 as one of the darkest and most tragic chapters in the history of Bangladesh.

On August 15, 1975, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was assassinated along with members of his family. Several family members and close relatives were also killed in the massacre. His two daughters, Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana, survived because they were abroad at the time. Bangabandhu’s nephew Sheikh Fazlul Haque Moni, his pregnant wife Arzu Moni, and members of the family of Abdus Rab Sernabat were also killed during the attacks.

Following the fall of the Awami League government on August 5, 2024, the National Mourning Day designation and public holiday associated with August 15 were abolished in Bangladesh. Despite this, Bangladeshi expatriates in Jackson Heights organized the program to remember Bangabandhu and those who lost their lives on August 15.

President of Jackson Heights Elakabashi Shakil Mia said, “Although we live abroad, expatriate Bangladeshis have a deep connection with the history and heritage of Bangladesh. This type of program is organized with the aim of introducing the younger generation to the history of the country and the spirit of the Liberation War, while also bringing everyone together in social and humanitarian activities.”

General Secretary Mohammad Alam Nomi said, “A large number of people participated in the program organized by the Jackson Heights Elakabashi. Through distributing food and prayer mats among approximately 1,500 people and preparing tabarruk from five slaughtered cows, we tried to strengthen our connection with the community. We will continue such social and humanitarian activities in the future.”

Chairman Redwanul Haque said, “It is our responsibility to remember Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and those who were killed on August 15, even while living abroad. At the same time, we must work together for the welfare of our community.”

Chief Coordinator Shah J. Chowdhury said, “This year’s program included a memorial gathering, prayer session, distribution of food and prayer mats, as well as a blood donation drive. Approximately 40 people voluntarily donated blood. We will continue organizing similar programs in the future as part of our commitment to serving people and fulfilling our social responsibilities.”

Children’s author and a prominent voice for the Liberation War, Humayun Kabir Dhali, said that remembering the history of Bangladesh’s Liberation War, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and those who were killed on August 15 is a moral responsibility even for Bangladeshis living abroad. He emphasized the importance of presenting the younger generation with an accurate account of the Liberation War and the sacrifices made during that period. He also called on expatriate Bangladeshis to remain united and participate in social and humanitarian activities while preserving the history and heritage of the nation.

Also present at the program were Joint Conveners Mia Md. Dulal, Alamgir Hossain, Abdul Malek, and Abdul Hamid. The program was conducted by Shah Newaz. Joint Member Secretaries were Duke Khan and Md. Mahbub Rahman. Bipul Saha and Moinuzzaman Chowdhury were responsible for supervision. The principal patrons were M. A. Aziz and Asef Bari Tutul.

Co-Chairmen present at the event included Sakhawat Biswas, Z. R. Chowdhury (Litu), and Mofizur Rahman. Patrons included Moinul Islam, Attorney Moin Chowdhury, Ashraf Chowdhury Khokon, Sohel Gazi, Fahad Solaiman, Nurul Azim, and Tarek Hasan Khan.

The chief adviser to the program was Shah Newaz. Other advisers included Harun Bhuiyan, Md. Mohiuddin Dewan, Rashed Ahmed, Ishtiaq Rumi, Sirajul Haque Kamal, Kamruzzaman Kamrul, Mansur Chowdhury, Md. Piar, Rafiq Ahmed, Iqtaruzzaman Ratan, Md. Kabir Ratan, Shafiuddin Mia, and Shahadat Hossain.

The program received support from Golden Age Home Care, NY Home Care, All County Home Care, Bari Home Care, NY Senior Adult Day Care, Caring Friend Direct, Eternal Care Service, Dera Restaurant, Ruposhi Chandpur Foundation, Premium Sweets, Reliable Home Care, First Home Care, SS Brokerage, JBBA, Patel Brothers, and various individuals, organizations, and business owners.

Additional supporters included Md. Manik Babu, Zahid Alam, Kamruzzaman Bakul, Humayun Kabir Dhali, Anwar Milon, Abu Nasr, Shams Jony, Shaheen Chowdhury, Aftab Jony, Akram Hossain Biplob, Md. Sayem Ullah, Mukta Mia, Gopal Sanyal, Z. A. Joy, Jahangir H. Mia, Nuruzzaman Sardar, Golam Kibria, Kamal Hossain Rakib, H. M. Iqbal, Zafar Ahmed, Wasim, Ganesh Kirtaniya, Md. Radbi, Shahriar Hossain, Shovon, Anwar Uddin, Mohiuddin Rahul, Redwanur Rahman Jewel, Jahanara Akter (Lucky), Farhana Chowdhury, Monir Hossain, Shyamal Nath, Matiur Rahman, Matin, Manzur Chowdhury, Md. Zahid Mia, Anisuzzaman Sobuj, Abdul Hadi Rana, Bidyut Hossain, and Hasanuzzaman Sabu, among others.

Also present at the event were Rashed Ahmed, Faruk Hossain, Golam Mostafa Khan Meraj, Mukit Chowdhury, Lavlu Ansar, Abul Bashar Chunnu, Khurshed Alam Bablu, Mizanur Rahman, Md. Chana Ullah, and Saikat Akbar (Ritchie).

The organizers said that Bangladeshi expatriates in Jackson Heights intend to continue organizing such programs to remember the history of Bangladesh, the spirit of the Liberation War, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and those who lost their lives on August 15. They also expressed their commitment to standing beside members of the Bangladeshi community in New York through continued social and humanitarian initiatives.

Shibbir Ahmed, United Nations, New York: At least 300 children have been killed in the besieged Gaza Strip over the 300 days since a so-called ceasefire agreement went into effect, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), which stated that the truce has proven to be a complete failure for the children of Gaza. The ceasefire agreement was signed in October of last year with the aim of halting military operations between Hamas and Israeli forces, but violence has continued despite the deal.

Edouard Beigbeder, UNICEF’s regional director for the Middle East and North Africa, expressed outrage, stating that a ceasefire in which an average of one child dies every day is a total failure to protect children. He added that hundreds of children are spending their days in hospital beds with severe injuries, and that the children of Gaza are still waiting for the peace they were promised.

Despite the agreement, the procession of children’s deaths in Gaza has not stopped. Premature and sick babies are being born to hunger-stricken mothers. A severe humanitarian crisis has been created due to a lack of adequate medical supplies and relief, and an entire generation in Gaza is being deprived of basic amenities and education. With renewed Israeli airstrikes and military operations, Gaza’s families have been forced to seek shelter in only one-third of the territory, living subhuman lives amidst rubble and piles of garbage.

UNICEF spokesperson Louise Wateridge stated that due to a lack of adequate incubators, two or three newborns are often placed in a single machine. Newborns just days old, born in partially functioning hospitals lacking sufficient medicine and equipment, are fighting desperately to survive. She said the international community has accepted this situation, but this carnage must be stopped, adequate relief must be allowed to enter, and children must be protected. While the world calls it a ceasefire, families in Gaza are still burying their children, as a ceasefire does not mean children should die every day.

According to data from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), a total of 1,209 people have been killed and 3,943 injured in Gaza since the ceasefire was declared on October 10 of last year. Additionally, a recent attack on a medical warehouse near Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al-Balah destroyed emergency medical supplies provided by the World Health Organization (WHO).