United News of Bangladesh

As the Obama Presidential Center opening prepares to open its doors on June 19 in Chicago, historians are once again reflecting on how US presidential libraries preserve both history and personality. For historian Geoffrey Ward, visiting the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum feels like stepping directly into the world of former US president Franklin D. Roosevelt. He describes the site as full of personal artefacts that reveal Roosevelt’s wide-ranging interests, from childhood belongings to books and collections that shaped his public life. Since Roosevelt helped establish the modern concept of presidential libraries in the late 1930s, the system has expanded across the United States. These institutions, now overseen in part by the US National Archives and Records Administration, range from large modern complexes to small-town museums, including the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum and the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum. Historian Douglas Brinkley, who has visited most of these libraries, said each site carries a distinct atmosphere reflecting the president it represents. He noted that Roosevelt’s decision to donate his home and papers to the public set a lasting model for preserving presidential history close to where leaders lived and worked. However, experts say presidential libraries often present a carefully shaped version of history. While official archives are managed by federal professionals, museum exhibits are frequently supported by private funding, which can influence how presidents are portrayed. Some critics argue this can lead to a focus on achievements while downplaying controversies. In some cases, disputes have emerged over how sensitive events are presented, including the Watergate scandal at the Richard Nixon library and debates over policy legacies at other sites. Historian Max Boot said archival records are generally handled in a neutral and professional way, but museum displays often highlight positive aspects of a presidency more strongly than failures. Others, like historian Ted Widmer, say there has been gradual improvement in transparency. He pointed to the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library for its willingness to confront controversial issues such as the Vietnam War and historical election disputes linked to former president Lyndon B. Johnson. Widmer said it remains uncertain whether future presidential libraries will continue moving toward greater openness, especially as political divisions deepen, but stressed the importance of presenting history accurately rather than in a simplified or polished form. The new Obama Presidential Center opening has also drawn attention for its design and scale. Located on Chicago’s South Side, the project has faced both praise and criticism, including debate over its architecture and decision not to include a National Archives-managed facility on site. The centre is expected to attract up to one million visitors annually and will include a public library branch, sports facilities, gardens and community spaces. Former US president Barack Obama has been closely involved in shaping its design and features, including recreational areas and reading spaces intended for public use. Supporters say the centre reflects a modern, community-focused approach to presidential legacy, combining historical preservation with public engagement in a more interactive environment.

The United States and Iran have reportedly agreed on the wording of a draft agreement intended to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, according to Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Speaking on Friday, Sharif said both countries had reached consensus on a final text and that mediators are now working with Washington and Tehran to complete the remaining steps needed to formalize the deal. Pakistan has played a leading role in the mediation efforts. In a post on X, Sharif expressed optimism, saying that a peaceful resolution appears closer than ever. The development follows several days of military exchanges involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also suggested that an agreement was within reach, while U.S. President Donald Trump shared similar sentiments by reposting Araghchi’s remarks on social media. According to Araghchi, the proposed agreement would initially focus on ending hostilities across the region, including in Lebanon. Discussions concerning Iran’s nuclear program would continue for up to 60 days after the signing of the initial accord, with the possibility of extending that timeline if necessary. Iran’s nuclear activities remain one of the most contentious issues in the negotiations. The United States and Israel argue that Tehran’s program could eventually be used to develop nuclear weapons, while Iran maintains that its nuclear efforts are strictly peaceful. A senior U.S. official indicated that the draft agreement would begin the process of eliminating or removing Iran’s highly enriched uranium. The following 60-day period would be used to address technical details related to that process. The negotiations also address the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil and natural gas shipments. Disruptions in the waterway have contributed to higher energy costs worldwide. The proposed deal reportedly includes measures to reopen the strait and restore normal shipping operations. Iran has signaled that it wants to retain the right to charge transit fees for vessels using the strait, arguing that such payments would compensate for services provided during passage. Regional officials familiar with the discussions said the agreement is also expected to include a gradual easing of sanctions on Iran and the release of frozen Iranian assets. They believe a formal signing ceremony could take place within days, pending final approval from both governments. Although Israel is not directly involved in the negotiations, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz also emphasized that Israel expects its security concerns—including Iran’s missile capabilities and regional proxy networks—to be addressed. Katz added that Israel reserves the right to take independent action against Iran if necessary and indicated that Israeli forces would remain in certain areas of Lebanon, Syria, Gaza, and parts of the West Bank. Officials said the mediation effort has been led primarily by Pakistan, under the guidance of Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, with support from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Qatar.

The influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has dismissed US calls for North Korea's denuclearization as an outdated fantasy, saying Pyongyang will continue to strengthen its nuclear capabilities in response to what it sees as threats led by Washington. The remarks by Kim Yo Jong came a day before Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to visit North Korea for talks with Kim Jong Un, marking his first trip to the country in seven years. Kim Yo Jong said the United States has no authority to challenge North Korea’s status as a nuclear-armed state and described Washington’s position as unilateral rhetoric without legal force. She also rejected US claims that President Donald Trump and Xi Jinping had reaffirmed their shared goal of denuclearizing North Korea during talks in Beijing last month, calling such assertions false. According to Kim Yo Jong, some US officials remain trapped in what she described as an unrealistic and outdated view regarding North Korea’s nuclear programme. North Korea has accelerated efforts to expand its nuclear weapons capabilities since diplomacy between Kim Jong Un and Trump collapsed in 2019. Analysts say Pyongyang seeks international recognition as a nuclear state to strengthen its position in negotiations and push for the removal of international sanctions. Last week, Kim Jong Un visited a newly built nuclear materials production facility and said the country's nuclear forces would grow at an “exponential” pace. North Korean state media reported Sunday that he also inspected a weapons factory a day earlier and ordered a 2.5-fold increase in missile production capacity under the current five-year development plan. In her statement, Kim Yo Jong accused the United States and South Korea of continuing military build-ups, saying North Korea’s policy of strengthening its nuclear deterrent for self-defence is irreversible and will be pursued without conditions. Experts say Xi’s visit is largely aimed at reinforcing China’s influence over North Korea at a time when Pyongyang has been drawing closer to Russia. They believe Xi is unlikely to press the denuclearization issue directly and may instead focus on economic cooperation and assistance. North Korea has provided troops and conventional weapons to Russia to support its war in Ukraine. Officials in South Korea and the United States say Moscow has responded by offering economic and other forms of assistance to Pyongyang.

Iran and the United States carried out fresh strikes across the Persian Gulf region on Wednesday, further testing an already fragile ceasefire and briefly forcing Kuwait to shut down its main international airport after a drone attack caused damage and casualties. Kuwait said its airport was partially shut after Iranian drones struck the passenger terminal, damaging the building and killing at least one person, according to officials. The airport later reopened in a limited capacity, with some flights resuming from an alternate terminal. The latest violence came as Iranian semi-official media reported that Tehran had stopped communicating with mediators over extending a ceasefire with the United States and Israel. However, a regional official involved in the talks said Iran wanted the truce in Lebanon enforced before returning to negotiations. US President Donald Trump insisted discussions were still ongoing. The repeated exchanges of attacks across the Gulf, along with the widening conflict in Lebanon involving Iran-backed Hezbollah, have further complicated ceasefire efforts that have already been dragging on for weeks. Kuwait’s Defence Ministry said “a number of hostile drones” hit the airport’s passenger building, causing heavy damage and injuries. Later, the foreign ministry confirmed at least one death. State media reported that Kuwait Airways suspended operations following the attack. Aviation authorities said the airport partially reopened later in the day, but operations remained severely restricted. The airport had only reopened earlier this week after being closed due to the ongoing conflict. The US military said Iran also fired missiles toward Kuwait, which broke apart mid-air, while American forces shot down multiple drones targeting US personnel in the country. It added that US and Bahraini forces intercepted additional missiles aimed at Bahrain, where Iran allegedly targeted areas near the US Navy’s 5th Fleet. Bahrain’s defence ministry said it destroyed several incoming missiles and drones. In response, the US said it struck an Iranian military ground control facility on Qeshm Island near the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as retaliation for attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard confirmed it had targeted US military facilities, including the 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, though it did not specifically mention Kuwait. It said its actions were in response to earlier US strikes. Iran’s Foreign Ministry condemned the US attack on Qeshm Island, calling it a violation of the ceasefire and describing it as an “act of aggression.” Amid rising tensions, an Emirati diplomat called for a united Gulf response, warning that the conflict threatens the entire region rather than any single country. Iranian news agencies reported that Tehran had paused communication with ceasefire mediators, linking the talks to conditions involving the conflict in Lebanon, where fighting involving Israel and Hezbollah has intensified. However, a regional mediator told The Associated Press that Iran had not responded to outreach efforts on Tuesday. President Trump rejected claims that negotiations had stopped, saying discussions had continued daily and urging Iran to reach a deal. “The conversations between us have been going on continuously… It’s time, one way or another, for you to make a deal,” Trump wrote on social media. The broader conflict has also become tied to Israel’s war in Lebanon, where Israeli forces have expanded operations despite a nominal ceasefire with Hezbollah. The situation has created friction between Washington and Israel, with the US urging restraint while Israel pushes for stronger military action. Reports also suggested a tense recent phone call between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, though no official details were provided.

A US federal appeals court panel has ruled that a Pentagon policy illegally barred transgender people from serving in the military, marking another legal setback for President Donald Trump’s agenda. A divided three-judge panel of the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit said the policy was designed to exclude individuals based on gender identity. However, the ban will remain in place for now as legal proceedings continue, after the US Supreme Court previously allowed its enforcement to begin. The ruling limits its immediate impact to protecting transgender service members who are already in the military and part of the lawsuit. It does not allow new transgender recruits to join. The court also paused implementation of its decision to give the administration time to seek further review. The decision partially upholds a 2025 ruling by US District Judge Ana Reyes, who found that Trump’s executive order excluding transgender troops likely violated constitutional protections. Following that ruling, the administration appealed after an injunction was issued in favour of active-duty transgender service members and individuals seeking to enlist. The appeals court narrowed that order, extending protection only to those already serving. Another related case in Washington state had also ruled against the ban, but that decision was blocked by the Supreme Court. The policy stems from a January 2025 executive order signed by Trump, which argued that transgender identity conflicts with military discipline and readiness. In response, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth introduced a rule that generally disqualifies people diagnosed with gender dysphoria from serving. The condition refers to distress caused when a person’s gender identity does not match their sex assigned at birth. Writing for the majority, Judge Robert Wilkins said the policy appeared to be motivated by an attempt to target a politically unpopular group, namely transgender people. The ruling was welcomed by LGBTQ rights advocates. Jennifer Levi of GLAD Law called it a strong validation of the plaintiffs’ position and their service to the country. The Pentagon has not yet commented on the ruling, though Hegseth indicated on social media that the administration plans to appeal further, referencing the US Supreme Court. In a dissenting opinion, Judge Justin Walker said courts should not interfere in military decisions regarding troop eligibility, arguing that such authority lies with Congress and the president as commander in chief. Judge Judith Rogers agreed with the majority that the policy was unlawful but said she would also have allowed transgender individuals seeking enlistment to proceed in the case.

The United States military says it struck a commercial cargo vessel trying to force its way through a blockade of Iranian ports, hitting the ship’s engine room with a missile, according to U.S. Central Command. The Gambia-flagged cargo ship ‘Lian Star’reportedly ignored more than 20 warnings from U.S. forces overnight as it attempted to enter an Iranian port, the military said. A U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the ship was left drifting in the Gulf of Oman and had not been boarded by U.S. forces. The incident marks the latest in a series of enforcement actions, with the U.S. military saying it has now stopped six ships trying to breach the blockade. One vessel was allowed to pass, while more than 100 others have been redirected. The blockade was launched on April 17 in response to tensions in the region after earlier U.S. and Israeli strikes in late February. A fragile ceasefire has been in place since early April, while diplomatic discussions continue over extending it and addressing Iran’s nuclear programme. U.S. officials say the blockade aims to restrict Iran’s shipping activity and limit its access to revenue, adding pressure on an already struggling economy. President Donald Trump met advisers on Friday but has not yet decided on extending the ceasefire agreement and reopening key maritime routes. Iran, meanwhile, says no final agreement has been reached. Despite tensions, commercial shipping continues to pass through the region, though at reduced levels. Iran has insisted it must approve transit through the waterway. Iran’s joint military command warned that any violation of its regulations would put vessels at serious risk, according to a statement carried by state media. It also said foreign military interference could be targeted. Iran has also reportedly imposed high transit fees in some cases, a move critics say violates international maritime norms guaranteeing free navigation. Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani said his country opposes charging transit fees, though he noted that temporary arrangements linked to operations such as mine-clearing could be negotiated to help restore normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. A U.S. official earlier told The Associated Press that no mines have been discovered or destroyed in the strait so far.

FIFA is facing fresh scrutiny in the United States over high World Cup ticket prices and controversial sales practices that many fans say left them paying more for less desirable seats. Authorities in New York and New Jersey have launched an investigation into whether FIFA’s ticketing system violated consumer protection laws. The move comes as both states prepare to host matches, including the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The attorneys general of the two states said they have issued subpoenas to FIFA, seeking details on its ticket sales methods. These include the use of “variable pricing,” which caused ticket costs to rise sharply, and changes to stadium seating plans that allegedly moved fans further away from the field than expected. The investigation, being carried out with support from New York City’s Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, is mainly focused on ticket sales for matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. “Fans have waited years for the World Cup to come here and they deserve fair and affordable access to tickets,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James. “People should not be forced to pay extremely high prices or receive seats different from what they expected.” New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport also criticised FIFA, saying the ticket-buying process had become confusing and unfair, with artificial scarcity and extremely high prices. FIFA has not commented on the investigation. The World Cup is set to begin on June 11 with matches in Mexico, while the first game at the nearly 82,000-seat MetLife Stadium — temporarily renamed for the event — will take place on June 13 between Brazil and Morocco. Ticket prices have drawn strong reactions, with some seats for the July 19 final reportedly selling for as much as $33,000. In response to public concerns, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently announced a lottery system offering 1,000 tickets to city residents at $50 each. These tickets will be distributed across matches held at MetLife Stadium, excluding the final. Earlier, FIFA had also released a limited number of $60 tickets for each match through participating national football associations.

The United States carried out fresh “defensive” strikes against Iran on Wednesday, as President Donald Trump claimed Tehran is “running out of options” in ongoing negotiations and said upcoming midterm elections will not pressure him into a quick deal. According to US officials, American forces intercepted and destroyed four Iranian one-way attack drones near the Strait of Hormuz, considering them a potential threat. The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said US troops also targeted a drone control site in Bandar Abbas that was preparing to launch another drone. The latest military actions came as Trump expressed confidence during a Cabinet meeting that progress is being made toward ending the nearly three-month-long conflict, although negotiations remain uncertain. The president is aiming for an agreement that would reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and allow him to claim that Iran’s nuclear capabilities have been significantly reduced. Such an outcome could help him justify ending a war that has faced political criticism at home. However, the proposed deal leaves several key issues unresolved and has drawn criticism, even from some of Trump’s Republican allies. Critics argue that Iran’s leadership could emerge from the conflict weakened but still empowered. With midterm elections approaching and concerns growing over rising fuel prices and living costs, some Republicans worry about the political impact. But Trump dismissed suggestions that the elections would influence his decisions. “They thought they could wait me out because of the midterms,” Trump said. “I don’t care about the midterms.” He acknowledged that negotiations are still ongoing but remained optimistic. “They want a deal badly,” he said. “We’re not satisfied yet, but we will be or we’ll have to finish the job.” Earlier this week, the Pentagon confirmed similar “defensive” strikes targeting Iranian missile sites and boats suspected of laying naval mines. The US has said it is acting cautiously due to a fragile ceasefire that has been in place for weeks. Republican concerns over deal terms Despite Trump’s optimism, differences remain between Washington and Tehran on several major issues. Senior Republican lawmakers, including Senators Roger Wicker, Lindsey Graham and Ted Cruz, have expressed concern that the deal may be too favorable to Iran. Some critics say the proposed agreement resembles the nuclear deal negotiated under former President Barack Obama  a deal Trump had previously withdrawn from.   Under the current proposal, Iran would give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium in exchange for relief from economic sanctions. Officials say details on how the uranium would be handled are still under discussion, with options including dilution or transfer to a third country. However, Trump said he would not be comfortable with Russia or China taking control of Iran’s uranium stockpile. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran currently possesses about 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60% purity, close to weapons-grade levels. Iran has not publicly agreed to surrender this material. Uncertainty over Israel and Lebanon Another unresolved issue is whether the ceasefire would include Israel’s ongoing military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Iran has insisted that Lebanon be included in any agreement. The US proposal appears to leave room for interpretation, supporting a broader ceasefire while also recognizing Israel’s right to defend itself against immediate threats. Clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters continue in southern Lebanon, with Israeli troops advancing further north. Analysts warn that any sanctions relief could allow Iran to rebuild its military strength and support allied groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. Push to expand Abraham Accords Trump has also called for expanding the Abraham Accords — agreements aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and several Muslim-majority countries — to include nations such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and Pakistan. “We are strongly encouraging them to join,” Trump said. However, experts say this goal may be difficult to achieve. Saudi Arabia, for example, has maintained that recognition of Israel depends on a clear path toward establishing a Palestinian state — something Israel currently opposes. Trump raised the issue during recent talks with Middle Eastern leaders, though reactions reportedly varied. While some officials described the response as muted, others said certain allies showed interest in the proposal.

The United States has deported nearly 13,000 Cubans, Venezuelans and other migrants to Mexico, where many face serious risks including cartel violence and lack of basic support, according to a new report by Human Rights Watch released Wednesday. Although Mexico has accepted such deportations before, the report says those sent under the Trump administration are often older and had lived in the US for many years. This makes it harder for them to find jobs and increases their need for medical care. The findings are based on more than 50 interviews conducted in the southern Mexican cities of Tapachula and Villahermosa. The report comes as US authorities have expanded immigration enforcement as part of a wider mass deportation drive. As a result, people who were not previously targeted — including Cubans who had lived in the US for decades — are now being deported. Since countries like Cuba and Venezuela often refuse or limit return flights, many migrants are instead sent to Mexico under special arrangements. A Human Rights Watch researcher described the situation as extremely difficult, especially for older people who are suddenly removed from their lives and left in an unfamiliar and sometimes dangerous environment without proper support. Cubans make up the largest group among those deported, with more than 4,300 sent to Mexico. Many had lived in the US since the 1980s or 1990s, often holding green cards before losing their legal status. The report says over half had some form of criminal record, but only a small portion were linked to violent crimes, while about a quarter had no criminal history at all. Most were detained during routine immigration check-ins, while others were picked up at workplaces or public places. None were given a chance to appear before a judge to challenge their deportation to Mexico, even when they expressed safety concerns. Once in Mexico, many are sent to southern areas with limited job opportunities, poor access to healthcare and high levels of crime. The process to seek refugee status is also complicated, leaving many stuck without clear legal status. Aid workers say shelters are now seeing older deportees, including people in their 80s — a shift from the younger migrants usually arriving. Human Rights Watch has urged both the US and Mexico to make their deportation agreements public and ensure proper legal procedures are followed. It also called on Mexico to provide healthcare and legal pathways for those unable to return home, and on the US to halt such deportations until safeguards are in place.

Taiwan’s government said Friday it has not received any official notice from the United States about a possible delay in a planned $14 billion arms sale, despite comments from a senior U.S. official suggesting some foreign weapons deals are being paused. Taiwanese presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo said authorities in Taipei were aware of the reports but had not been informed of any changes to the proposed arms package. The comments came after acting U.S. Navy Secretary Hung Cao told a U.S. Senate committee on Thursday that some foreign military sales were temporarily being delayed to ensure the U.S. military has enough weapons stockpiles for operations linked to the conflict with Iran. “Right now we're doing a pause in order to make sure we have the munitions we need,” Cao said during a hearing of the Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee. He added that foreign military sales would continue when the administration considers it appropriate. The issue gained attention only days after U.S. President Donald Trump questioned whether Washington should continue arms sales to Taiwan, the self-ruled island that China claims as its own territory. Although the United States does not officially recognize Taiwan as a separate country, it remains Taipei’s main security partner and largest arms supplier. The Trump administration approved an $11 billion weapons package for Taiwan in December. In January, U.S. lawmakers also approved another proposed $14 billion arms sale, though the deal still requires formal submission to Congress by Trump before it can move ahead. During an interview with Fox News after returning from Beijing last week, Trump described arms sales to Taiwan as “a very good negotiating chip” in dealings with China. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te on Wednesday said continued U.S. weapons sales are important for maintaining peace and security in the region. Meanwhile, China again warned Washington against supplying weapons to Taiwan. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing’s opposition to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan remains “clear-cut and resolute.” During Trump’s recent visit to Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly warned that the Taiwan issue is the most sensitive matter in U.S.-China relations and could lead to tensions or conflict if mishandled. Trump later told reporters he wanted to speak with Taiwan’s leader, without directly naming Lai. Any direct talks between Trump and Lai could trigger a strong reaction from Beijing, which considers Lai a separatist figure. Taiwan’s presidential office said Friday there was no further information about any possible conversation between Trump and Lai.