Bangladesh, July17,2025:At least four people were killed in violent clashes during a rally organized by the National Citizen Party (NCP) in Gopalganj, Bangladesh, on Wednesday, according to local media reports.

In response to the incident, the interim government released a statement vowing strict legal action against anyone found responsible for the violence. Security forces have been deployed across the city, and authorities have imposed a curfew in Gopalganj from 6 PM on Thursday to maintain law and order.

NCP convener Nahid Islam strongly condemned the incident and demanded the immediate arrest of those involved within 24 hours. He also announced that the party will hold nationwide protests on Thursday in response to the violence.

Tensions remain high in the region as police continue to patrol the streets and monitor the situation closely.

USA, July17,2025

In a major international development, the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has placed Reza Amiri Moghaddam—currently serving as Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan—on its Most Wanted list. The FBI alleges that Moghaddam, along with two other Iranian nationals, was involved in the 2007 abduction of retired American FBI agent Robert A. “Bob” Levinson in Iran.

The Allegations

According to a detailed statement released by the FBI, Reza Amiri Moghaddam, along with Taqi Daneshvar and Gholam-Hossein Mohammadnia, are believed to be operatives of Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS). The trio is accused of orchestrating the kidnapping of Agent Levinson, who disappeared on March 9, 2007, from Kish Island, Iran.

The FBI claims that all three officials were not only involved in the abduction but also played key roles in covering up the operation and attempting to shift the blame to other entities.

Background on Bob Levinson

Robert “Bob” Levinson was a retired special agent with 28 years of service in the U.S. Department of Justice. After his retirement from the FBI in 1998, he worked as a private investigator. Levinson had traveled to Iran’s Kish Island on March 8, 2007, reportedly on behalf of several large corporations. He vanished the next day, and no conclusive information has emerged about his fate since.

A video released years later by his son, David Levinson, showed Bob alive in captivity, stating, “I have been held for three and a half years.” In the video, Levinson pleads with the U.S. government to respond to his captors.

Despite years of investigation and diplomacy, the U.S. government has never disclosed what Levinson was specifically doing in Iran or the nature of his assignment.

FBI’s Position and Rewards

Steven Jensen, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office, stated that these three Iranian intelligence officers were actively involved in the kidnapping and the cover-up operation led by the Iranian regime. Jensen also suggested the possibility that Levinson was killed while in captivity, far away from his family and country.

The FBI continues to pursue leads in the case and maintains a $5 million reward for any information that could lead to locating Bob Levinson or confirming his status.

Who is Reza Amiri Moghaddam?

Reza Amiri Moghaddam assumed office as Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan in July 2023. Born in 1961, he holds a Ph.D. in International Relations. According to Iran’s embassy website in Pakistan, he also serves as Deputy for Foreign and International Policy Affairs at Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.

However, the FBI alleges that Moghaddam previously headed the Operations Unit of Iran’s Intelligence Ministry. During that time, intelligence agents operating across Europe were said to report directly to him.

Other Names on the FBI List

The two other individuals named alongside Moghaddam are:

• Taqi Daneshvar (also known as Syed Taqi): A high-ranking official within the Iranian intelligence ministry, involved in anti-terror operations. The FBI alleges that during the time of Levinson’s disappearance, Daneshvar oversaw operations linked to the abduction.
• Gholam-Hossein Mohammadnia: A former Iranian ambassador to Albania. Mohammadnia was previously expelled from Albania, along with another Iranian diplomat, over accusations of posing threats to national security. Iran had at the time blamed the U.S. and Israel for pressuring Albania into this decision.

Iran’s Silence

As of now, Iran has not issued any official statement in response to the FBI’s allegations. Repeated attempts by the media to reach the Iranian Embassy have gone unanswered.

The FBI’s fresh revelations and the addition of Iranian officials to its Most Wanted list have sparked renewed tension in already strained U.S.-Iran relations. With a $5 million reward still in place, the mystery of Bob Levinson’s fate continues to haunt American intelligence and diplomatic circles, while raising serious questions about the roles of international diplomats and state actors in covert operations.

Iraq, July17,2025

At least 55 people have died in a devastating fire that broke out in a shopping mall in Qatt city, Iraq.

According to AFP, the death toll was confirmed by medical officials. Iraqi state media also reported multiple deaths and injuries in the tragic incident.

The shopping center had opened just five days ago, making the tragedy even more shocking. The fire broke out on Wednesday night, but has since been brought under control.

Rescue teams are continuing search operations as several people are still missing. Authorities are yet to determine the exact cause of the fire.

Yemen, July17,2025

Efforts to save Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, who was sentenced to death in Yemen, are still underway, but no breakthrough has been achieved yet. On 16th July, Nimisha was scheduled to be executed by firing squad. However, the execution was postponed at the last moment.

Nimisha was convicted in 2020 for the 2017 murder of her Yemeni business partner, Talal Abdo Mahdi. The two were jointly running a clinic in the Yemeni capital, Sana’a. Talal’s mutilated body parts were later found in a water tank. Since then, the case has drawn attention in Yemeni and broader Arab media.

Arab Media Highlights

The Arabic news outlet Al-Mahrah wrote in its report:

“According to Yemen’s Islamic law, Nimisha Priya can only be pardoned if the victim’s family agrees to forgive her.”

The report adds that several important religious scholars are also involved in the efforts to save Nimisha. Among them is Sheikh Habib Umar bin Hafiz, a prominent Sufi scholar from Yemen. The Indian government is also trying through diplomatic channels, but due to poor relations with the Houthi regime, the efforts have seen little success.

Another outlet, Al-Yemen Al-Ghad, stated:

“The Nimisha Priya case is no longer just a criminal matter. Law, tradition, politics, and religion are all now intertwined. The postponement of her execution has raised hopes.”

The UAE-based Gulf News wrote:

“India faces a major challenge in Nimisha Priya’s case because of its very limited diplomatic presence in Yemen. India does not recognize the Houthi government, which leaves it with few intervention options. India is relying on tribal and religious leaders to help save Nimisha. Last-minute efforts were made through India’s Grand Mufti, and they succeeded in delaying her execution on the scheduled day. However, the danger is far from over.”

Victim’s Family Stands Firm

The Arabic website Al-Quds cited a Facebook post by Abdul Fattah Mahdi, brother of the victim Talal Abdo Mahdi. The post, dated Wednesday, says:

“There is nothing new or surprising in the ongoing mediation efforts. Attempts at mediation have been happening for years. Despite this, our stance remains unchanged. We have made our demands very clear — the criminal must be punished. We want nothing more.”

“Unfortunately, the execution was postponed, which we had not expected. The court is aware that we have refused any settlement. We will continue our efforts until justice is delivered. We will not give in to any pressure. Blood cannot be bartered. Justice may take time, but we will not compromise.”

Abdul Fattah also refuted some claims circulating in Indian media, saying:

“There are reports suggesting that Talal had seized Nimisha’s passport and exploited her — but these are entirely false. Nimisha never made such allegations during any court hearing, and neither did her legal team ever claim this.”

Syria, July17,2025

Israel continues its airstrikes on Syrian military forces, with its air force targeting and destroying armored vehicles and pickup trucks equipped with machine guns near the Druze-majority city of Sweida.

According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the strikes are part of an ongoing operation in southern Syria, specifically targeting Syrian government forces. In a statement released on Saturday, the IDF also shared fresh footage of the attacks, showing military bases and vehicles being hit.

Sources say the latest airstrikes targeted military convoys moving towards Sweida — a city currently witnessing intense clashes and known as a stronghold of the Druze community. The IDF stated that not only were military vehicles destroyed, but also Syrian army checkpoints, arms depots, and other strategic installations in the region.

Rising Tensions in Sweida

Tensions in Sweida have escalated recently, with frequent clashes reported between Druze civilians and government forces. Israel has defended the strikes as acts of self-defense, citing increased Syrian and Iranian activity near its borders as a significant threat.

Earlier this week, Israel also released video footage of a missile strike on a Syrian military headquarters. The video shows a massive explosion as the missile hits its target, reducing the building to rubble within seconds. The scale of destruction suggests the missile carried a powerful payload, with debris thrown several feet into the air.

Why Did Israel Launch the Strikes?

Israel claims that Syrian forces have been committing atrocities against the Druze population. Reports indicate that over 300 Druze civilians have been killed in clashes with Syrian troops. Israel says the strikes were aimed at halting these alleged human rights violations and preventing further aggression.

Amid these developments, an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council has been convened today to discuss the rising conflict in the region.

New Delhi, July 16,2025

The Indian government has refused to allow the import of U.S. dairy products containing ‘non-veg milk’, citing deep-rooted cultural sensitivities. This decision comes as part of ongoing trade negotiations between India and the United States.

While the U.S. continues to push for greater access to Indian markets for its agricultural and dairy products, India has made it clear that it will not compromise on the protection of its farm and dairy sectors. The term ‘non-veg milk’ refers to dairy sourced from animals fed with non-vegetarian feed — something that contradicts the vegetarian ethos followed by a significant portion of India’s population.

The last date set by the U.S. administration under President Donald Trump for imposing tariffs was earlier July 9, but this has now been extended to August 1, allowing more time for both countries to reach a trade agreement. Hopes are high for an interim trade deal that may soon be announced, potentially paving the way for bilateral trade to hit the ambitious $500 billion mark by 2030.

Despite the momentum, India’s firm stance on cultural and agricultural safeguards remains a key point of contention in the negotiations.

New Delhi, July15,2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla for his successful return from space, calling it a proud moment for the nation and a significant step toward India’s ambitious Gaganyaan mission.

Taking to social media, PM Modi wrote,

“I join the entire nation in welcoming Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla as he returns to Earth from his historic space mission. As the first Indian to visit the International Space Station, Subhanshu has inspired millions with his dedication, courage, and pioneering spirit. This marks another milestone on the path toward our own human spaceflight mission – Gaganyaan.”

“Touching the skies, lifting India’s dreams”

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed pride over the successful completion of the Axiom-4 mission. In a heartfelt social media post, he wrote:

“Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla’s successful return from the historic Axiom-4 mission is a moment of immense pride for every Indian. He has not only touched space but has elevated the dreams of India to new heights.”

Singh further emphasized that Subhanshu’s journey to and from the International Space Station is not merely a personal achievement but a major stride in India’s expanding space ambitions.

“I pray for his continued success in all future endeavors,” he added.

Subhanshu Shukla’s mission marks a new chapter in India’s space exploration story, strengthening the country’s position on the global stage and inspiring the next generation of Indian astronauts.

Yemen, July 15,2025

In a major relief, the execution of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya has been postponed, according to sources. Nimisha, who hails from Kerala, was scheduled to be hanged in Yemen on July 16. The latest reports suggest that a significant development has taken place, temporarily halting the sentence that had sparked international concern.

Nimisha’s case has drawn widespread attention and emotional appeals from across India and the global Indian community. The postponement has brought a moment of hope for her family, well-wishers, and the many people who have been campaigning tirelessly for her life to be spared.

USA, July14,2025

A recent comment related to Taiwan has once again placed the United States under scrutiny on the global stage.

While former U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly urged allied nations not to rely solely on America for their security, a fresh statement by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reignited debate. Hegseth openly admitted that China indeed poses a real threat to Taiwan.

This has raised a crucial question:
If China were to launch a military offensive against Taiwan, to what extent would the United States be willing to step in for its defense?

This comes at a time when U.S.-China trade tensions appear to have cooled down, and Washington is increasingly entangled in conflicts in the Middle East.

Trump’s earlier stance—encouraging allies to take responsibility for their own defense—has already unsettled several global partners. Now, with America’s most powerful trading rival, China, in direct contention over Taiwan, the world is watching to see how far the U.S. is prepared to go.

As geopolitical dynamics shift, the Taiwan question continues to test America’s commitment to its allies—and its global leadership.

Colombo/Jaipur, July 14,2025
In a vibrant celebration of artistic expression and cultural wisdom, Indian artist Dr. Renu Shahi has drawn deep admiration for her spiritually inspired paintings at an international art exhibition titled “Uncharted”, held at the Curado Art Space in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Organized by the Rainbow Art Group, New Delhi, this cross-border exhibition featured 49 contemporary artists from six countries, each offering their unique visual interpretations. Amid this diversity, Dr. Shahi’s works stood out — not only for their aesthetic depth but also for their philosophical grounding.

Her three paintings, inspired by verses from the Bhagavad Gita, revolved around the three fundamental qualities of human nature: Sattva (purity), Rajas (passion), and Tamas (inertia). Through rich symbolic imagery and subtle layering, she represented these gunas not merely as abstract ideas, but as divine forces shaping the human experience. Each artwork intertwined color, mythology, and introspection into a single visual meditation.

The exhibition, which ran from July 4th to 10th, was inaugurated by Shanila Alles, Director of Curado Art Space, and curated by Virendra Kumar, the visionary founder of Rainbow Art Group. The group’s mission is to highlight artists who explore Indian culture, spirituality, and heritage through their canvas, offering them a global stage to be seen and heard.

“For us, art is a language that speaks beyond words,” said Kumar. “It transcends geography and unites minds — whether you’re from Jaipur or Jakarta.”

Alongside Dr. Shahi, notable artists such as Banita Rani Singh, Bhaskar Ghosh, Dr. Chetna Agarwal, Manju Saad, Manoj Chakravarty, and Nayana Mevada, among others, showcased their works. Artists hailed not just from India but also from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Qatar, Indonesia, and Belarus. Each piece was a window into the artist’s soul — and some of those windows were so captivating that a few artworks were sold, a testament to the audience’s deep connection with the themes.

Rainbow Art Group has, over the years, emerged as a powerful platform nurturing both emerging and established talent. Its exhibitions reflect a belief that “art needs no passport — it is the purest dialogue between cultures.”

Dr. Renu Shahi’s series served not just as paintings, but as philosophical experiences — introducing Sri Lankan viewers to the timeless teachings of Indian scriptures, not through sermons, but through strokes of color, layers of thought, and a visual silence that speaks louder than words.