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US Intel Chief Comments on Bangladesh's 'Islamic Caliphate' Crisis

The United States has expressed significant concern over the persecution of religious minorities in Bangladesh, as highlighted by US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard in an exclusive interview with NDTV World. Gabbard emphasized that the Trump administration is dedicated to combating "Islamist terrorism" globally, citing the ongoing abuse faced by Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and others as a pressing issue. She noted that discussions have commenced between Trump's new cabinet and Bangladesh's interim government, focusing on the rise of Islamic extremism. Gabbard warned of the global threat posed by extremist groups aiming to establish an "Islamic Caliphate," which jeopardizes individuals of all faiths. She reiterated President Trump's commitment to identifying and defeating the ideology underpinning such terrorism, aiming to curb its violent manifestations and protect vulnerable communities. sources

Published:
Mar 17 2025, 3 pm

India, New Zealand Sign Defence Pact, Discuss Free Trade Agreement

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon engaged in extensive bilateral talks in New Delhi, culminating in the signing of a pivotal defence agreement. The discussions aimed to enhance cooperation across various sectors, including trade, education, and agriculture, and initiated negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Modi underscored concerns regarding anti-India activities in New Zealand and emphasized a united stance against terrorism, referencing the Christchurch and Mumbai attacks. Both leaders agreed to institutionalise their defence partnership and outlined plans for collaboration in the defence industry. New Zealand's formal accession to the Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure signifies its commitment to regional cooperation. Additional agreements were reached on trade facilitation, horticulture, forestry, and education, alongside a Memorandum of Cooperation in sports, further solidifying the ties between the two nations. sources

Published:
Mar 17 2025, 11 pm

New Zealand Backs India's UN Security Council Permanent Seat Bid

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon emphasized India's crucial role in the Indo-Pacific during his address at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi on Monday, advocating for India's bid for permanent membership in the UN Security Council. Luxon highlighted the importance of a rules-based order in the region amid rising tensions from China's assertiveness, stating that "might makes right" is unacceptable. He affirmed New Zealand's commitment to strengthening ties with India, noting that both countries share a vested interest in maintaining an open and prosperous Indo-Pacific. The prime ministers of India and New Zealand also discussed enhancing defense cooperation and reaffirmed their dedication to upholding international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Luxon called the Quad an essential platform for promoting stability and prosperity, while reiterating New Zealand's intent to support regional partners in making independent choices free from external interference. sources

Published:
Mar 17 2025, 11 pm

US Help Key to France's Freedom, Says White House

The White House has dismissed a request from a French Member of the European Parliament for the return of the Statue of Liberty, emphasizing the historical significance of U.S. support during World War II. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt remarked that France would be "speaking German" if not for American assistance in the conflict, suggesting that gratitude should be extended to the U.S. for its role in liberating France. Leavitt's comments came in response to what she termed the remarks of a "low level French politician," underscoring the enduring complexities of Franco-American relations. The statue, a gift from France to the United States in 1886, symbolizes friendship between the two nations, but the recent exchange highlights tensions over historical narratives and national pride. sources

Published:
Mar 17 2025, 11 pm

White House Confident in Court Battle on Deportations

The White House expressed strong confidence on Monday regarding its legal position after a judge mandated a hearing concerning the expulsion of alleged members of a Venezuelan gang, citing wartime legislation. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that the administration's actions were fully compliant with the law, asserting, "We are wholly confident that we are going to win this case in court." This statement comes amid ongoing discussions surrounding immigration policy and national security, as the administration seeks to address concerns related to criminal organizations. The case is set to unfold in court, with the White House maintaining a firm stance on its legal strategy. sources

Published:
Mar 17 2025, 11 pm

Doctor Deported Had 'Sympathetic' Hezbollah Photos on Phone: US

US authorities have deported Dr. Rasha Alawieh, a 34-year-old kidney specialist from Rhode Island, to Lebanon after discovering "sympathetic photos and videos" related to Hezbollah on her phone. Alawieh, who held an H-1B visa, was detained upon her return to Boston from Lebanon, where she attended the funeral of Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, which she described as a "purely religious" event. The US Department of Justice stated that her removal was justified due to concerns about her intentions in the US, citing her statements and the content on her phone. This action occurred despite a federal judge's order barring her deportation without 48 hours' notice, raising allegations of a violation of court orders. The Justice Department defended Customs and Border Protection's actions, claiming proper channels for notification were not followed. The case has since drawn significant legal attention, with ongoing disputes regarding the deportation process. sources

Published:
Mar 18 2025, 12 am

Wealthy Dentist Charged with Boyfriend's Murder, Patients Shocked

A 61-year-old woman from Gainesville, Georgia, identified as Suzanne Renee Mericle, has been arrested and charged with murder following the fatal shooting of her partner, 68-year-old James David Barron, at their home on Bayridge Drive. Hall County Sheriff's deputies responded to the scene at around 1:15 a.m. on Saturday, finding Barron unresponsive with a gunshot wound to the torso; he later died at a nearby hospital. Mericle, who owns a well-reviewed dental practice, was present during the incident and has since been charged with murder, aggravated assault under the Family Violence Act, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. The news of her arrest has left her patients and community in shock, with many expressing disbelief at the allegations against a woman they regarded as a dedicated professional and friend. Mericle is currently held at Hall County Jail without bond. sources

Published:
Mar 17 2025, 9 pm

Lithuania: Russian Intelligence Linked to Ikea Arson

Lithuanian prosecutors have attributed last year's arson attack on an Ikea store in Vilnius to Russia's military intelligence service, the GRU, labeling it an "act of terrorism." The incident, which occurred in May 2024, resulted in no casualties but raised concerns over potential sabotage inspired by Russia amid its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Prosecutor Arturas Urbelis revealed that two Ukrainian nationals are suspects, with one detained in Lithuania and the other in Poland. Investigators uncovered that the arson was orchestrated through intermediaries linked to Russian military and security forces, with plans to target shopping centres in Lithuania and Latvia for a €10,000 reward. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk condemned the situation, describing it as "exceptionally perfidious" for Russia to exploit Ukrainians for such acts, emphasizing the implications for future negotiations regarding Ukraine's fate. sources

Published:
Mar 17 2025, 10 pm

Forever 21 Files Bankruptcy, Plans US Store Closures

Forever 21 has initiated voluntary bankruptcy proceedings in the United States, marking its second Chapter 11 filing in six years, as it seeks to orchestrate an "orderly wind down" of its U.S. stores while exploring potential asset sales. The fast-fashion retailer, known for its budget-friendly imitations of high-fashion styles, plans to conduct liquidation sales at its 540 U.S. locations, which will remain open during the process. The bankruptcy does not affect international stores operated by other licensees. Founded in 1984 by Do Won and Jin Sook Chang in Los Angeles, Forever 21 has faced significant challenges, including a struggling apparel market and fierce competition from low-cost rivals. Industry analysts suggest that the brand's lackluster merchandising and unclear market positioning have alienated younger consumers, raising questions about its future viability, possibly through an online licensing sale at a reduced valuation. sources

Published:
Mar 17 2025, 10 pm

Trump: Iran Responsible for Houthi Attacks

President Donald Trump has announced that Iran will be held accountable for any future attacks by Yemen's Huthi rebels, who have been targeting US and foreign vessels in the Red Sea. In a post on Truth Social, Trump emphasized that "every shot fired by the Houthis" will be considered a direct attack from Iran, which he accuses of playing the "innocent victim" in the ongoing conflict. His remarks follow recent US airstrikes in Yemen that resulted in significant casualties, including 53 dead. The Huthis have retaliated by claiming attacks on a US aircraft carrier and mobilizing protests in areas they control, asserting their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians amid the conflict in Gaza. Trump, while advocating for a new nuclear deal with Iran, continues to apply a "maximum pressure" sanctions policy, indicating that any further Huthi aggression will be met with "great force." sources

Published:
Mar 17 2025, 10 pm

Spain Court Denies Father's Request to Halt Daughter's Euthanasia

A Spanish court has upheld the decision to allow a 24-year-old woman, who is paraplegic, to proceed with her euthanasia request, rejecting an appeal from her father. The woman, who became paraplegic following a suicide attempt in 2022, was set to undergo the procedure in August last year after the euthanasia board in Catalonia approved her request. Her father, supported by the conservative group Abogados Cristianos, argued that his daughter’s mental health issues might impair her decision-making capacity and claimed she had changed her mind about euthanasia. However, the court ruled that she met the legal criteria for euthanasia, emphasizing her serious and chronic condition and affirming her ability to make this personal choice. Abogados Cristianos plans to appeal the ruling, citing alleged procedural irregularities, while the campaign group Right to Die with Dignity praised the decision as a victory for individual autonomy in end-of-life decisions. sources

Published:
Mar 17 2025, 10 pm

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