February 18, 2026

Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman Forms Cabinet, Names Former Commerce Minister to Revive Economy

Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman announced his first cabinet. Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury returns as finance minister to fix the economy. Rahman keeps defence for himself. New foreign minister faces regional challenges. India congratulates the new government.

February 18, 2026

First-ever Video Captures Giant Antarctic Sleeper Shark at 490m Depth

Scientists have filmed a giant Antarctic sleeper shark for the first time, at 490 metres deep in icy Southern Ocean waters. This surprising sighting challenges old beliefs that sharks do not live in Antarctic seas. The shark, 3-4 metres long, cruised slowly in near-freezing water off the South Shetland Islands.

February 18, 2026

Balochistan CTD Kills 14 Militants in Quetta and Barkhan Security Operations

Balochistan's CTD killed 14 suspected militants in separate raids in Quetta and Barkhan. Weapons were recovered, and security forces reported few injuries. Counter-terrorism steps continue amid heightened tensions.

February 18, 2026

China Warns Citizens Against Gambling Abroad After Two Fatal Incidents

Chinese consulates in Vietnam and Singapore warn their citizens to steer clear of gambling overseas. The alerts follow two deaths of Chinese men allegedly linked to gambling losses. Officials remind citizens that consular help is limited for gambling-related troubles abroad.

February 18, 2026

IIA Bengaluru Opens Doors on National Science Day with Free Astronomy Fun

The Indian Institute of Astrophysics in Bengaluru hosts a free open day on February 21. Visitors can enjoy interactive astronomy demos, talks, exhibits, and fun activities from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

February 18, 2026

Trump’s Board of Peace Meets as Israeli Settler Attacks Displace Palestinians; Vatican, Film Stars Speak Out

The first Board of Peace meeting begins amid rising Israeli settler attacks in West Bank. Vatican rejects the board. Deportation cases fail and film workers protest Berlin festival's silence on Gaza.

February 18, 2026

Militants Attack Police Station and Customs Office in Dera Ismail Khan; Two Officials Killed

Militants attacked a police station and customs office in Dera Ismail Khan along the CPEC route, killing two officials and injuring two others. The area saw chaos as attackers fired at passenger buses and set a customs vehicle on fire. Security forces quickly responded, forcing the attackers to flee.

February 18, 2026

Oman Doubles Expat Work Permit Fees for Non-Compliant Firms, Gives Discounts to Omanisation Leaders

Oman launches a new tiered fee system for expat work permits. Companies meeting Omanisation targets get 30% fee discounts. Others face double fees, pushing firms to hire more locals.

February 18, 2026

Gaza Welcomes Ramadan Amid Fragile Ceasefire and Food Shortages

Gaza families welcome Ramadan with hope despite ongoing fears of war and food struggles. A fragile ceasefire brings calm but challenges remain for displaced people.

February 18, 2026

Israel Moves Ahead with West Bank Annexation Amid Global Backlash and Anti-Semitism Claims

Israel defies international law and global criticism by annexing the West Bank. Despite worldwide protests, many Israelis see this as anti-Semitism. Prime Minister Netanyahu remains popular domestically, while accusations of genocide and war crimes grow.