Bangladesh's interim government, led by Advisor Muhammad Yunus, has directed all embassies and consulates globally to simplify visa issuance for Pakistani nationals and those of Pakistani descent. The new policy aims to make it easier for Pakistanis to visit Bangladesh, eliminating visa-related obstacles. The directive, sent by the Ministry of Home Affairs to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, applies to all Bangladeshi diplomatic missions abroad. The move comes after Bangladesh's embassy in Agartala halted visa services following protests, while discussions between Bangladesh’s Ambassador and Pakistani leadership led to the new policy.

Hamas has warned of "neutralising" hostages if Israel conducts a rescue operation, citing the June 2024 Nuseirat raid, which freed 4 captives but left over 200 Palestinians dead. Hamas' internal directive instructed operatives to tighten captives' conditions and implement "neutralisation orders" immediately if Israel acts. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that pressure on Hamas is intensifying, hinting at progress in hostage negotiations. Since the October 2023 attack by Hamas, which killed 1,200 Israelis and took 250 hostages, over 44,500 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s military campaign, devastating Gaza.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has postponed the MiG-21 Bison's retirement, initially set for December 2025, due to production delays in the Tejas Mk1A fighter jets. Engine supply issues have hindered Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) from meeting timelines, impacting the planned induction of Tejas jets. The IAF currently operates two MiG-21 squadrons, extending their service despite safety concerns and the aircraft's aging technology. The MiG-21 has been pivotal in conflicts like the 1971 war and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes. The IAF urgently requires new fighters, operating only 30 squadrons against the sanctioned strength of 42.

Iran’s parliament has passed a controversial ‘chastity’ law, imposing stricter dress code rules, particularly targeting women’s attire. The legislation enforces harsher penalties for non-compliance, including significant fines and prison terms. President Ebrahim Raisi expressed disapproval, citing potential backlash and further unrest. The move has sparked criticism internationally and domestically, with activists condemning it as oppressive. Human rights groups warn it may escalate tensions following months of protests triggered by Mahsa Amini’s death in custody last year. Many Iranians view the law as a setback for gender equality and personal freedoms. Global reactions call for respect for women’s rights in Iran.

South Korea's opposition lawmakers filed an impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk Yeol following his failed martial law declaration. Yoon claimed the order aimed to prevent a North Korean takeover, but it sparked mass protests and condemnation. Opposition leaders accused Yoon of "insurrectionary behavior" and demanded his resignation. Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun and top aides have resigned amid the fallout. Parliament will vote on the impeachment by Saturday, needing support from at least 200 lawmakers. If passed, Yoon will face a Constitutional Court trial. Meanwhile, nationwide protests and labor strikes continue, pressuring the president to step down.

Bangladesh’s ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina accused interim leader Muhammad Yunus of "genocide" in her first public address since fleeing to New Delhi. Speaking virtually, she alleged Yunus failed to protect minorities, highlighting attacks on Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians. She cited the destruction of 11 churches and arrests of Hindu leaders like ISKCON’s Chinmoy Krishna Das. Hasina claimed there was a plot to assassinate her and her sister, mirroring her father’s 1975 assassination. India expressed serious concerns over rising extremist rhetoric and minority violence in Bangladesh, urging the interim government to ensure minority safety and justice. Relations between the nations remain tense.

Nepal has officially joined China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), finalizing a framework agreement during Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s visit to Beijing. This marks a significant step seven years after Nepal’s initial in-principle agreement in 2017. The deal includes project planning, coordination, and financing details. While Beijing hails the pact as a milestone, it raises concerns in New Delhi over potential security threats and China’s "debt diplomacy." India previously restricted its airspace to a Chinese-funded airport in Pokhra, citing security risks. Critics within Nepal also express fears of mounting debt from Chinese loans, intensifying political debates over the agreement.

Employees may soon be able to withdraw up to 50% of their provident fund (PF) directly through ATMs, according to reports on EPFO’s planned upgrade to version 3.0. The Labour Ministry is reportedly developing a specialized card to facilitate these transactions, expected to roll out between May and June 2025. Currently, PF withdrawals require physical or online applications. This new feature aims to enhance accessibility and convenience for employees, enabling quicker access to funds. However, the withdrawal limit is capped at 50% of the total deposit to ensure financial stability within the system.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will visit Dhaka on December 9 or 10 for the Foreign Office Consultation (FOC), marking the first high-level visit since the interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, assumed power. Discussions will cover extradition of Sheikh Hasina, visa issues, and minority rights. Bangladesh Foreign Adviser Md. Touhid Hosain stressed building relations on reciprocity. Sheikh Hasina faces trial for alleged involvement in mass killings during the July-August uprising. Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin will co-lead the discussions with Misri. The visit highlights efforts to stabilize bilateral ties amidst regional tensions.

IndiGo has rejected the findings of the AirHelp Score report 2024, which ranked it 103rd out of 109 airlines. The report also placed Air India at 61st and AirAsia at 94th. IndiGo stated it consistently performs well in punctuality and customer satisfaction, citing data from India's aviation regulator, DGCA. "The report lacks clarity on sample size and methodology, raising doubts about its credibility," IndiGo said. With over 7.25 crore passengers and a 61.3% market share this year, IndiGo remains India's top airline. The company reaffirmed its commitment to offering on-time and hassle-free travel.