Peace

The UN's broader appeal comes amid regional instability. Weeks of prior violence had already heightened tensions, with Pakistan linking the strikes to cross-border incursions by groups like the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

This latest flare-up is symptomatic of deeper issues: mutual distrust, unresolved border disputes, and the enduring legacy of the US-led war in Afghanistan. Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Taliban of harbouring militants, while Kabul counters that Islamabad’s policies have fuelled instability.

The event reflects continued activism in Sri Lanka, where economic recovery has not erased memories of the struggle or resolved grievances over state responses.

As the countdown to February 12 continues, the question hanging over Bangladesh is whether the interim government can deliver the security and fairness it promised – or whether the country’s most vulnerable citizens will once again pay the price for political change.

This latest edict from Akhundzada, who rarely appears in public and rules from Kandahar, reinforces his absolute authority.

The displacement has sparked humanitarian worries, with aid groups warning of food insecurity and health risks in winter.

If these working group meetings proceed as planned, they will be the first major technical talks under the Doha framework to take place on Afghan soil.

On January 9, 2026, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, secretary general of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), publicly voiced deep concerns about the country’s deteriorating security situation ahead of the polls, expressing dissatisfaction with the performance of law enforcement agencies.