US freezes immigrant visas for 75 countries

IANS | January 14, 2026 11:00 PM

Washington, Jan 14, (IANS) The Trump administration has ordered an indefinite pause on immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries, citing concerns that applicants could become a “public charge” and draw on American welfare and public benefits, according to a State Department directive and public statements from senior administration officials.

Bangladesh unfit for any role in US-backed Gaza peace plan: Report

IANS | January 14, 2026 8:33 PM

Ottawa, Jan 14 (IANS) If the United States wants its proposed ‘International Stabilisation Force’ in Gaza to be credible and functional, it must make it clear that any force involving Bangladesh will not receive American diplomatic, financial, or military backing. The peacekeeping force cannot include a nation that refuses diplomatic ties with Israel, a report said on Wednesday.

Fear grips Indian students in Bangladesh amid rising attacks on minorities

IANS | January 14, 2026 8:30 PM

Dhaka, Jan 14 (IANS) Bangladesh must adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards violence against foreign students backed by credible prosecution and not hollow assurances, a report highlighted on Wednesday urging local universities to move beyond imposing curfews and stand up for their students outside campus gates.

Prudent to exclude unreliable actors like Pakistan from Gaza peace plan: Report

IANS | January 14, 2026 8:24 PM

Jerusalem, Jan 14 (IANS) Pakistan's track record of orchestrating bloodshed over decades cannot be erased by mere diplomacy. With the Gaza peace plan hanging in the balance, excluding unreliable actors like Pakistan is not just prudent — it's critical for lasting stability, a report said on Wednesday.