Iran's Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni recently stated that Afghan nationals can legally enter the country with valid visas, emphasizing that legal travel continues. However, he expressed significant concern over the illegal presence of undocumented Afghan migrants, amidst ongoing efforts to manage the large migrant population and enforce new regulations regarding residency and access to services.
Austria has deported a 31-year-old Afghan national convicted of rape and grievous bodily harm, marking the first such expulsion to Afghanistan since the Taliban regained power in 2021. The move, confirmed by Austrian officials, signals a significant shift in the country's deportation policy, with more such returns planned despite criticism from human rights organizations.
French Guiana experienced a widespread general strike in March 2017, as state agents and numerous unions protested severe dysfunctions in public services, high crime, and economic hardship. The unrest led to significant blockades, the closure of schools and businesses, and the postponement of a rocket launch, prompting high-level discussions with French authorities and a substantial aid offer.
The Italian Coast Guard successfully rescued 91 irregular migrants and recovered two deceased individuals from a distressed wooden boat approximately 16 nautical miles southwest of Lampedusa. The operation, initiated after a Frontex aircraft spotted the vessel, brought survivors from various African nations to safety, while investigations into the deaths are underway.
Bangladesh and Kuwait convened their inaugural political consultations in Dhaka on October 19, 2025, marking a significant step to bolster bilateral cooperation across political, economic, defence, labour, development, and cultural sectors. The discussions, co-chaired by Dr. Md. Nazrul Islam and Ambassador Sameeh Essa Johar Hayat, aimed to forge a comprehensive and forward-looking partnership.
Kuwait has issued three Amiri decrees to revoke the citizenship of 21 individuals and their dependents. This action is part of the state's broader, ongoing review of nationality cases to ensure compliance with Kuwaiti laws and regulations, targeting those who obtained citizenship through fraud or other violations.
Reports detail escalating persecution of Christian communities in Nigeria, with thousands killed and churches attacked by extremist groups. Senator Ted Cruz seeks to label Nigeria a 'Country of Particular Concern' for religious freedom violations, while the Nigerian government and some analysts dispute claims of systematic targeting, asserting that insecurity affects all faiths.
Air India deployed a special flight, AI138D, on October 19, 2025, to repatriate 256 passengers stranded in Milan after their original flight, AI138, was cancelled due to a technical issue with a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The timely operation ensured passengers could return to India for Diwali celebrations.
Bangladesh has strongly condemned the brutal killing of three of its citizens by a mob in Tripura, India, on October 15, 2025, demanding an impartial investigation. India's MEA stated the men were cattle smugglers who attacked villagers.
Pope Leo XIV presided over a solemn ceremony in St. Peter's Square, canonizing seven new saints, including a former Satanist, a martyred archbishop, and the first saint from Papua New Guinea. The event marked the second canonization of his pontificate.
Norway and nineteen EU countries have jointly urged the European Commission to facilitate the return of Afghan nationals residing illegally in Europe. Citing security concerns and public trust, the initiative, led by Belgium, advocates for both voluntary and forced returns, proposing a stronger role for Frontex and potential negotiations with the Taliban.
Pope Leo XIV addressed approximately 4,000 pilgrims from over 70 countries at the Vatican's Jubilee of Roma, Sinti, and Travelers. He lauded their profound faith and unwavering hope despite centuries of marginalization, emphasizing their role in renewing the Church's spiritual life and calling for an end to prejudice.
Pope Leo XIV is set to canonize seven new saints in a solemn ceremony at St. Peter's Square on October 19, 2025. The group includes the first saint from Papua New Guinea, a Venezuelan 'doctor of the poor,' a martyred Armenian archbishop, an Italian lawyer, and three nuns, marking a significant moment for the global Catholic Church.
India has formally expressed concerns to Australian Minister Anne Aly regarding recent anti-immigration rallies in Australia that targeted the Indian community. During her visit to New Delhi, Minister Aly reassured India, stating that the divisive rhetoric from these rallies represents a minority extremist sentiment and emphasized Australia's commitment to multiculturalism and the valued contributions of Indian-Australians.
The Arakan Army (AA) announced on October 15, 2025, that it had captured Point 666 hill from the Myanmar junta army in Padaung Township, Bago Region. The three-hour conflict on October 14 resulted in the AA seizing the strategic outpost, which is part of a broader offensive threatening junta military production facilities.
Anti-refugee protests in the Dutch towns of Houten and Uithoorn on Tuesday evening, October 14, 2025, led to multiple arrests after demonstrators threw fireworks and eggs, and chanted racist slogans. The unrest occurred amidst plans to establish new asylum centers in both municipalities.
Nigeria's Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar has strongly refuted US allegations of Christian persecution, asserting that communal violence stems from resource pressures exacerbated by population growth and climate change. US lawmakers, including Senator Ted Cruz, are pushing for Nigeria's redesignation as a Country of Particular Concern, citing reports of thousands of Christian killings.
Supporters of Bangladesh's now-banned Awami League party are conducting flash mob protests in Dhaka, defying a government ban ahead of upcoming elections. The interim government reports over 800 arrests linked to these demonstrations, which follow the party's ouster in 2024 and subsequent ban in May 2025.
Bangladesh is importing 4 lakh tonnes of rice, shortening tender periods from 42 to 15 days, to bolster food stocks and expand Open Market Sale (OMS) supply. This urgent measure addresses rising rice prices, reduced distribution, and potential flood impacts on the upcoming Aman harvest, aiming to stabilize the market and ensure food security.
The Bangladeshi diaspora in Italy has formally addressed Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani, expressing grave concerns over alleged human rights violations and the erosion of democratic principles under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus in Bangladesh. The letters, sent on October 11, 2025, detail arbitrary detentions, killings, torture, and suppression of media and political opposition.
