Thursday, December 11, 2025

New regional axis? Bangladesh FM says can join bloc excluding India; backs Pakistan’s proposal December 11, 2025 at 01:54AM

Bangladesh's foreign affairs adviser stated it's strategically possible for Dhaka to join a regional grouping with Pakistan, excluding India, following Islamabad's signals for a trilateral initiative with China. He also noted progress on lifting US sanctions on RAB and dismissed the likelihood of further sanctions on Bangladeshi leaders.

US–Pak arms deal: Trump admin clears sale of advanced tech for F-16 jets to Sharif govt December 10, 2025 at 09:01PM

The US has greenlit a significant $686 million arms deal for Pakistan, including advanced technology and support for F-16 fighter. This move aims to enhance Pakistan's counterterrorism capabilities and interoperability with US forces. The approval follows a recent $93 million US arms sale to India, featuring Javelin missiles and Excalibur rounds, bolstering its defense against regional threats.

Pakistan ex-ISI chief jailed: Faiz Hameed convicted after court martial; handed 14 years in prison December 10, 2025 at 11:31PM

Former ISI director general Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed has been sentenced to 14 years in prison by a Pakistani military court. The court-martial found him guilty of political interference, misuse of authority, and violating the official secrets act. This rare conviction of a high-ranking former military official signals the military leadership's stance against political involvement by officers.

Wednesday, December 10, 2025

UAE traffic alert: Key Emirates Road link to shut from Dec 11 December 10, 2025 at 12:34AM

Authorities have temporarily closed a slip-road on Emirates Road (E611) at Bridge No. 7 for northbound traffic heading towards Jebel Ali–Lehbab Road/Al Qudra Road. This closure, effective December 11, 2025, is part of a Dh750 million expansion project to enhance capacity and safety on the E611. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes like Bridge No.