Pakistan Muslim League youth leader Kamran Saeed Usmani threatened India over Bangladesh tensions, warning "Pakistan's army and missiles are not far away" if India attacks Bangladesh's autonomy. Usmani proposed a formal military alliance between Pakistan and Bangladesh, including mutual military bases on each other's territories. He claimed Pakistan wouldn't tolerate India's "Akhand Bharat ideology" being imposed on Bangladesh and suggested a strategic scenario where Pakistan attacks from the west, Bangladesh from the east, while China focuses on Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh. Usmani accused India's BSF of "disturbing" Bangladesh and argued linking China-Pakistan Economic Corridor with Bangladesh's ports would strengthen strategic control, claiming "those who control ports rule the world."

The United States has opened a rare filing window for Indian professionals waiting for Green Cards. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services allowed applicants to file using either of two visa charts. The January 2026 visa bulletin showed major progress in EB-1 and EB-5 categories for Indians. EB-2 and EB-3 also moved forward. Immigration experts called the change “extremely important.” They warned the relief may be short-lived. Applicants are advised to file quickly and prepare documents, including medical exams. The filing window runs from January 1 to January 31.

Climate activist Greta Thunberg was arrested in central London during a protest supporting Palestine Action hunger strikers. Police said the 22-year-old held a placard backing Palestine Action, which is a banned group in the UK. The arrest was made under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000. The protest took place outside an insurance firm linked to an Israeli defence company. Two activists also damaged the building with red paint. City of London Police said legal action followed. The government said it will not interfere in ongoing court cases. (PC: Prisoners for Palestine/PA)

Russia launched a “massive” overnight attack on Ukraine, killing at least three people, including a four-year-old child, officials said. President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia fired hundreds of drones and missiles, targeting cities and energy sites. “People simply want to be with their families and safe,” he said. Power cuts were reported in several regions. Russia claimed it struck military-linked facilities. The attack came despite peace talks and a proposed Christmas truce. Zelensky said Vladimir Putin “still cannot accept that he must stop killing.” (PC: Reuters)

Pakistan lawmaker Maulana Fazlur Rehman criticised his own government over strikes on Afghanistan that caused civilian deaths. Speaking in Karachi, he said, “If we justify attacks across the border, then we cannot object to India doing the same.” Rehman questioned the logic of the Pakistan army led by Asim Munir. He referred to India’s Operation Sindoor, saying Pakistan had lost moral ground. India has condemned Pakistan’s strikes on Afghan civilians and reaffirmed support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty.

Fresh violence broke out in Karbi Anglong, Assam, after clashes linked to an eviction drive. At least eight people were injured. Police used lathi-charge and tear gas to control the crowd. The Assam government suspended internet services in two districts to maintain peace. Heavy security was deployed in the area. Authorities imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Suraksha Sanhita, banning gatherings and night movement. Officials said talks were held with both sides. People were urged to follow legal routes and not take the law into their own hands. (PC: PTI)

India has summoned Bangladesh High Commissioner Riaz Hamidullah for the second time in a week amid growing tensions. The move came hours after Bangladesh called in Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma over security concerns. India raised objections about threats near its mission in Dhaka and blamed extremist groups. The Ministry of External Affairs said Bangladesh must ensure the safety of Indian missions. Ties have been strained since the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus took charge. India said it supports peace and fair elections in Bangladesh. (PC: PTI)

The US Justice Department has released about 30,000 new documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein. The files include an email claiming Donald Trump flew on Epstein’s private jet at least eight times between 1993 and 1996. The email says Trump travelled with Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, and family members. One flight reportedly listed only Trump, Epstein, and a 20-year-old passenger. Authorities said Trump is not accused of any crime. The Justice Department warned some claims are false and sensational. The release follows a new law ordering full disclosure of Epstein files.

Unrest continued in Bangladesh on Tuesday as Inqilab Moncho held a protest rally in Dhaka over the killing of student leader Osman Hadi. The group demanded swift justice and warned of intensified agitation ahead of national elections. Protests also spread in India, where Hindu organisations demonstrated outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi and other cities over recent violence against minorities. Police detained protesters and used baton charges in some locations to control crowds. The developments have further strained India-Bangladesh ties, with Dhaka summoning the Indian envoy and suspending visa services at select missions, citing security concerns. (PC: X)

A Sikh religious procession was disrupted in South Auckland, New Zealand, after members of a far-right group blocked the route and performed a haka. Videos showed protesters chanting Christian slogans and stopping the nagar kirtan on Great South Road. The agitators were linked to supporters of Brian Tamaki, leader of the Destiny Church. Police remained between the groups to prevent violence. Organisers said the procession had official approval. Several New Zealand lawmakers criticised the disruption and voiced support for the Sikh community. Political leaders in India also urged authorities to raise the issue with New Zealand, calling the incident a threat to religious freedom.