Rights body raises alarm over deteriorating law and order situation in B'desh under Yunus-led interim govt

IANS | February 6, 2026 11:18 AM

Washington, Feb 6 (IANS) With Bangladesh heading for elections next week, the Muhammad Yunus led interim government which came to power in 2024 following the overthrow of Sheikh Hasina led Awami League government, failed to maintain law and order and deliver on promised human rights reforms, a leading US-based rights group Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in its 2026 World Report.

US Treasury Secretary defends stablecoins to boost dollar power

IANS | February 6, 2026 10:35 AM

Washington, Feb 6 (IANS) The US Treasury is betting that stablecoins backed by government securities can strengthen the global role of the dollar, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defending new legislation on digital assets before Congress.

Fiery Senate clash on US economy, banks

IANS | February 6, 2026 10:04 AM

Washington, Feb 6 (IANS) A sharp partisan clash over inflation, bank regulation and financial stability dominated a Senate Banking Committee hearing on as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the administration’s economic record and the Financial Stability Oversight Council’s 2025 annual report.

AI emerges as new risk for US financial system: Bessent

IANS | February 6, 2026 9:58 AM

Washington, Feb 6 (IANS) Artificial intelligence has emerged as a priority risk for the US financial system, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent telling Congress that regulators are stepping up oversight of how AI is used across markets and institutions.

Prayer is America’s superpower: Trump

IANS | February 6, 2026 8:49 AM

Washington, Feb 6 (IANS) Donald Trump told lawmakers and religious leaders that faith is central to America’s strength, declaring that “prayer is America’s superpower” as he addressed the National Prayer Breakfast.

White House warns Cuba as talks loom

IANS | February 6, 2026 8:45 AM

Washington, Feb 6 (IANS) The White House brushed aside public skepticism from Cuba’s leadership about US-Cuba talks, saying President Donald Trump remains open to diplomacy and suggesting engagement is already underway.

Trump vows to protect US base at Diego Garcia

IANS | February 6, 2026 8:42 AM

Washington, Feb 6 (IANS) US President Donald Trump said he will never allow the US military presence at Diego Garcia to be threatened, warning that he retains the right to “militarily secure and reinforce” the base if future arrangements break down or US forces are endangered.