February 13, 2026

US and Taiwan Seal Major Trade Deal Cutting Tariffs to 15 Percent

US and Taiwan signed a key trade deal cutting tariffs on Taiwanese goods to 15%. Taiwan agreed to spend $85bn on US energy, aircraft, and equipment.

February 13, 2026

North Korea Slams Japan’s Election Win, Eyes 'Wartime Ambitions' Revival

North Korea lashes out after Japan’s election win by Takaichi’s conservative party. It accuses Japan of stirring wartime ambitions and forming strong military ties. Old wounds reopen with harsh historic accusations.

February 13, 2026

Bangladesh Elections Spark Hope for Change, Says Kolkata Student Visiting Home

A Kolkata student returning from Bangladesh describes a festive mood around the February 12 elections. People hope for political stability, more freedom of speech, and transparent governance after 15 years. Anti-India sentiment is easing, while Bollywood remains popular despite political tensions.

February 13, 2026

Supreme Court Rejects Plea to Bar Hindu Pujas at Waqf Property in Karnataka

The Supreme Court refused to stop Hindu rituals at Raghav Chaitanya Waqf property in Kalaburagi, saying Article 32 cannot be used here. The plea was withdrawn. The court stressed the Waqf Tribunal's role and left room for High Court proceedings.

February 13, 2026

Japan Seizes Chinese Fishing Vessel Near Nagasaki, Raising Strains with Beijing

Japan captured a Chinese fishing boat off Nagasaki for fleeing inspection orders. This marks the first seizure since 2022 and may worsen ties with China amid Taiwan tensions.