QUEENS, NY — Flushing Town Hall will celebrate its 12th annual Diwali Festival on Sunday, November 1, with an Indian wedding-themed cultural event featuring traditional Kathak dance, Indian cuisine, live drumming, and interactive arts workshops for families. The festival, titled Diwali Festival: The Indian Wedding, will take place from noon to 4 p.m. at Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Boulevard in Flushing, Queens. The event will bring Indian wedding traditions to life through live performances and hands-on activities designed to introduce audiences of all ages to South Asian culture. Admission is free for children.

The centerpiece of the festival will be a wedding dance drama presented by Abha B. Roy and the Srijan Dance Company at 2:15 p.m. The performance will showcase traditional Indian wedding customs, including henna application, the haldi ceremony, regional dances, marriage rituals, and the bride’s farewell. A tassa drumming procession will welcome the bridal party, inviting audiences to experience the atmosphere of a traditional Indian wedding.

Throughout the afternoon, visitors can participate in Indian classical and folk dance workshops, explore block printing with Dr. Alka Mukerji, and create colorful rangoli designs with Josh Roychowdhury. Additional activities will include henna art by Bella Beauty and Hindi calligraphy with Jasbir Bhatia.

Food will also be a central part of the celebration. Queens Curry Kitchen will offer Indian food and beverages, while Chef Nupur Arora will demonstrate how to prepare traditional vegetarian Indian dishes.

“Our theme for this year’s Diwali Festival is the Indian Wedding, offering audiences a festive window into one of India’s most cherished cultural traditions,” said Ellen Kodadek, executive and artistic director of Flushing Town Hall.

Kodadek said the festival reflects the organization’s commitment to presenting international arts and creating meaningful cultural experiences for the diverse communities of Queens and the greater New York City area. She also acknowledged the Guru Krupa Foundation for its longstanding support of the annual event.

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is widely celebrated as the Festival of Lights. Its name comes from a Sanskrit expression meaning “row of lights,” and the holiday symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, hope over despair, and knowledge over ignorance.

Celebrated by millions of people around the world, Diwali is marked by the lighting of traditional oil lamps, festive gatherings, family activities, and cultural performances. While the festival has deep roots in Hindu traditions, it is also observed by people from different religious and cultural backgrounds.

Gabrielle M. Hamilton, director of education and public programs at Flushing Town Hall, said the Indian wedding theme would allow visitors to experience the vibrant colors, music, dance, and traditions associated with the celebrations.

The festival’s teaching artists will encourage participants to engage directly with Indian art and performance traditions, making the event an opportunity for both cultural discovery and family entertainment.

Roy, artistic director of Srijan Dance Center, has led Flushing Town Hall’s annual Diwali Festival since its inception. A specialist in Kathak, a classical dance form from northern India, she trained under renowned gurus Kundan Lal Gangani and Pandit Durgalal and completed her specialization at Kathak Kendra in New Delhi. She has performed and taught internationally, including appearances at Lincoln Center, Flushing Town Hall, and the Queens Museum.

Arora, founder of Queens Curry Kitchen and author of The Vegan Indian Home, combines her culinary background with a passion for Indian home-style cooking. Mukerji, a professor in the Studio Art Department and director of the Berger & Brownson Art Gallery at Manhattanville University, explores themes of cultural identity, coexistence, social justice, and peace through her artistic practice.

Adult admission is $20, while adult members can purchase tickets for $15. Children will be admitted free. Tickets and additional information are available at https://www.flushingtownhall.org/show-details/diwali-festival-the-indian-wedding.

Flushing Town Hall will continue its international music programming on Saturday, November 14, with GLOBAL MASHUP: Bollywood Meets Hollywood. The concert will bring together musicians from both traditions, blending Bollywood rhythms with Hollywood musical classics and pop anthems. The evening will begin with a dance lesson at 7 p.m., followed by individual performances and a collaborative musical finale.

Flushing Town Hall is a nonprofit cultural institution operated by the Flushing Council on Culture and the Arts. Located in a historic 1862 landmark, the organization presents international and local artists through performances, arts education, and community programs. As a Smithsonian Affiliate and a member of New York City’s Cultural Institutions Group, it promotes cultural exchange and artistic engagement across Queens and beyond. For more information, visit www.flushingtownhall.org or call (718) 463-7700, extension 222.

CHESTER, Pa. — In a captivating showdown between women’s soccer titans, the U.S. Women’s National Team fought back from a two-goal halftime deficit to secure a dramatic 2–2 draw against reigning World Cup champion Spain at Subaru Park. The result brought a spirited end to the October international window, showing the growth and fight head coach Emma Hayes demanded following a 2–0 loss to La Roja three days earlier in Washington, D.C.

Spain picked up right where they left off in the opening match, overwhelming the American defensive lines with relentless possession and crisp combination play. The visitors broke through in the 26th minute when two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas marked her 150th international cap with a pristine finish past the U.S. defense.

Just five minutes later, Spain capitalized on a costly defensive mix-up in the box. Salma Paralluelo pounced on the error to double the lead, sending the world champions into the halftime tunnel firmly in control at 2–0.

Refusing to fold before the crowd of 18,648, the USWNT emerged from the break with renewed urgency and direct vertical play. The rally began in the 48th minute through Ashley Sanchez. Making her first national team start in nearly two years, Sanchez collected a pass on the edge of the penalty box and drilled a low shot into the far corner to slice the deficit in half.The momentum fully swung toward the Americans as they pressed higher up the pitch.

The dramatic moment arrived in the 86th minute when substitute Michelle Cooper floated a dangerous ball into the box. Mallory Swanson, making her return to the squad following parental leave, controlled the pass and volleyed it past Spanish goalkeeper Misa Rodríguez. The equalizer marked Swanson’s first goal for the national team since the Paris 2024 Olympic gold medal match.

While going winless across the two-game series against Spain leaves room for growth, Emma Hayes embraced the challenge of measuring her squad against the top-ranked team in the world. “If I’m here to merely protect a wins record, then I’ll pick a lesser opponent,” Hayes said after the match. “I’m here to see how much the gap has closed with them, and then how far away are we, and keep working towards it, because they’re the best team in the world for a reason.”

The USWNT will now regroup before official competition begins on November 27, 2026, when they face El Salvador in the quarterfinals of the Concacaf W Championship in Mansfield, Texas. The tournament serves as the official qualifying pathway for both the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

Shibbir Ahmed, New York: Bangladesh on Tuesday called for a strong international convention to prevent and punish crimes against humanity, urging special recognition and support for countries hosting victims of such atrocities.

Addressing the Sixth Committee of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Bangladesh delegate Muhammad Nawshad Zamir proposed three key provisions for the convention: cooperation in preserving evidence and protecting witnesses in receiving States; support for survivors, including access to justice at national and international levels; and international solidarity in sharing the burden borne by host countries.

Citing Bangladesh’s experience sheltering over one million Rohingya forcibly displaced from Myanmar, Zamir stressed that countries receiving victims must be integral to international accountability mechanisms. Referring to Bangladesh’s 2024 uprising, he cited a UN report estimating that up to 1,400 people were killed including children and calling for investigations into possible crimes against humanity.

Bangladesh also advocated universal jurisdiction, stronger extradition mechanisms and an end to impunity, while emphasizing prevention and justice for women and children. Zamir urged that the convention complement the Rome Statute and uphold the International Criminal Court’s independence. “A convention diluted until it offends no one will protect no one,” he warned.

NEW YORK — The 9/11 Memorial & Museum has unveiled a special exhibition in Manhattan to mark the upcoming 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. The new showcase was presented during a press briefing on Monday, August 31, followed by an exclusive media preview.

Titled “In Their Honor: 25 Years of 9/11-Inspired Service,” the exhibition highlights the lasting legacy of public service, volunteerism, and community initiatives that emerged in the wake of the 2001 tragedy. Museum officials confirmed it will officially open to the general public on September 12, 2026.

Speaking at Monday’s media briefing, Beth Hillman, President and CEO of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, emphasized that while the exhibition honors the memory of the nearly 3,000 victims, it also spotlights the remarkable human resilience and selflessness that followed. Other key speakers included Logan Miller, representing victims’ families, and Noah Rouse, Senior Vice President of Education and Public Programming.

The exhibition captures both the immediate aftermath of the destruction and its long-term social impact, documenting how individuals, families, and organizations rallied to support one another across the nation.

Preparations are currently underway across the United States for the landmark 25th anniversary. A major commemoration ceremony will take place on September 11 at the World Trade Center site, bringing together victims’ families, survivors, first responders, and community leaders.

Shibbir Ahmed, Washington DC: The United States’ national debt has surpassed the $40 trillion mark for the first time, reaching approximately $40.047 trillion on Wednesday, according to the latest data from the U.S. Treasury Department. The historic milestone underscores the scale of the U.S. government’s accumulated debt and is renewing concerns over the country’s long-term fiscal stability.

According to Treasury data, about $32.266 trillion of the total debt is debt held by the public, while approximately $7.782 trillion consists of intragovernmental holdings—amounts owed by one government account or agency to another.

Debt More Than Doubles in Less Than a Decade

The U.S. national debt has increased at an extraordinary pace over the past decade. When Donald Trump first took office as president in 2017, the national debt stood at approximately $19.95 trillion. It has now more than doubled, surpassing $40 trillion.

Economists say no single administration is responsible for the rapid increase. Massive government spending during the COVID-19 pandemic, persistent federal budget deficits, tax cuts and rising spending on major entitlement programs have all contributed to the growth of the national debt. The debt increased substantially during both the Trump and Joe Biden administrations.

Rising Interest Costs Add to Fiscal Pressure

Beyond the size of the debt itself, the cost of servicing it has become a major concern for the U.S. government. According to Reuters analysis, interest payments on the federal debt have become one of the largest components of federal spending and have surpassed spending on Medicare, ranking behind Social Security among the government’s largest expenditures.

Economists warn that interest costs could rise further as older debt is refinanced at higher interest rates. This could limit the government’s ability to allocate resources to areas such as education, infrastructure, defense and other public programs.

Large July Budget Deficit

The latest milestone comes amid continuing large federal budget deficits. According to Reuters, the U.S. government recorded a budget deficit of approximately $432 billion in July alone, one of the largest monthly deficits in the country’s history.

Rising spending on Social Security and Medicare, along with lower-than-expected revenue from tariffs and other sources, contributed to the large shortfall.

Trump Policies Could Add Further to Debt

Concerns are also growing over the potential impact of the Trump administration’s recent tax and spending policies. According to Reuters, President Trump’s widely discussed “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” could add approximately $4.7 trillion to the national debt over the coming years, based on estimates cited in the report.

Economists and budget watchdogs warn that continued growth in federal debt could reduce the government’s fiscal flexibility. It could also make it more difficult for Washington to respond to future economic downturns, inflationary pressures or other national emergencies.

Investor Concerns Grow

The growing national debt is also putting pressure on the U.S. government bond market. Yields on long-term Treasury securities have recently reached multi-year highs as investors demand higher returns to hold long-term U.S. government debt.

On Wednesday, the Treasury Department announced plans to increase its long-term Treasury bond buyback operations. The size of individual operations is expected to increase from about $2 billion to at least $4 billion.

Following the announcement, yields on long-term U.S. government bonds declined somewhat, while global bond markets also reacted positively.

Global Economic Implications

U.S. Treasury securities are widely regarded as among the safest and most important financial assets in the world. As a result, major changes in the U.S. debt and Treasury markets can have consequences far beyond American financial markets.

High government debt, inflation concerns and geopolitical tensions have recently contributed to higher long-term government bond yields in several countries.

Reuters reported that following the latest Treasury action, long-term European bond yields also declined somewhat. At the same time, the U.S. dollar came under pressure while gold prices rose sharply.

A Major Fiscal Challenge Ahead

The crossing of the $40 trillion threshold is more than a statistical milestone for the United States. It reflects decades of federal budget deficits and growing reliance on government borrowing.

Budget analysts warn that if the current pace of debt accumulation continues, Washington could face increasingly limited fiscal flexibility. Borrowing could also become more expensive, particularly during periods of economic stress.

The ultimate impact of the $40 trillion debt level will depend on several factors, including economic growth, interest rates, government spending, tax revenues and the fiscal policies adopted by future administrations.

But the historic milestone has already renewed international debate over the sustainability of U.S. government finances and the future management of the world’s largest sovereign debt.

DHAKA: BNP presidential candidate and outgoing Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir made an emotional appeal to the party’s lawmakers on Wednesday, urging them to vote for him in Thursday’s presidential election. Fakhrul made the appeal at a meeting of the BNP Parliamentary Party held at the government party meeting room of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban in Dhaka. The meeting was chaired by BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

The meeting began at 2 p.m. and continued for about one and a half hours. According to lawmakers who attended the meeting, Fakhrul became emotional at the beginning of his speech and broke down in tears several times. His emotional remarks created a somber atmosphere in the meeting, with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman also becoming emotional.

Recalling his long political journey with the BNP, Fakhrul said he had served the party as Senior Joint Secretary General, Acting Secretary General and Secretary General. “If I have made any mistake while carrying out my responsibilities, or if I have unintentionally hurt anyone, I ask for forgiveness,” Fakhrul told his colleagues.

He expressed gratitude to the party for giving him what he described as immense respect and responsibility throughout his political career. He also recalled the contributions of the late BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia and the party’s founder, former President Ziaur Rahman. Fakhrul thanked Tarique Rahman for continuing to place his trust in him and assigning him important responsibilities over the years.

He pledged that he would preserve throughout his life the honor and trust that the party had placed in him. He also said he would never compromise on the issues of Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty.

Referring to the possibility of moving to Bangabhaban if elected president, Fakhrul said he would miss his longtime colleagues and asked them to pray for him. He then directly appealed to the BNP lawmakers to vote for him in Thursday’s presidential election. Earlier, Chief Whip Md. Nurul Islam Moni welcomed the participants and briefed the lawmakers about the voting procedure for the presidential election. He also sought their votes for Fakhrul.

Moni informed the meeting that the presidential election would be held on Thursday, August 20, and that Fakhrul himself would also cast his vote. He further explained that if Fakhrul is elected president and assumes office, his parliamentary seat in Thakurgaon-1 would become vacant. After Fakhrul, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman addressed the meeting and also urged BNP lawmakers to vote for Fakhrul in the presidential election.

The meeting was attended by BNP Standing Committee members Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, Abdul Moyeen Khan, Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Salahuddin Ahmed, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud, Selima Rahman and A.Z.M. Zahid Hossain, among others.The pre sidential election is scheduled to take place on Thursday, August 20. If elected, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir will assume the office of President. As a result, Wednesday’s parliamentary party meeting could be Fakhrul’s final such meeting as a sitting member of parliament, giving the gathering an added emotional significance.

Shibbir Ahmed, New York: U.S. President Donald Trump has posted a map on social media labeling the strategically important Strait of Hormuz as “New U.S. Territory,” escalating an already tense confrontation with Iran over the vital shipping route.

Trump shared the map on his Truth Social account on Tuesday, August 18, without providing additional explanation. The post came days after he said he intended to declare the Strait of Hormuz a U.S. territory.

The move immediately drew a sharp response from Tehran. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi dismissed Trump’s claim as a “delusion” and warned that it would either be corrected or challenged by Iran.

The dispute comes as the United States and Iran remain locked in a confrontation over the future of the waterway, which is one of the world’s most important energy and shipping corridors.

Trump Doubles Down on Hormuz Claim

Trump had first suggested last week that the United States could take control of the Strait of Hormuz. On Monday, he told reporters at the White House that making the waterway part of the United States was, in his words, a “great idea.”

His latest social media post went a step further by displaying a map with the strait marked as “New U.S. Territory.”

The Strait of Hormuz lies between Iran and Oman and connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is a critical passage for global energy shipments.

Trump’s move has raised questions about the legal and diplomatic implications of any attempt by Washington to claim sovereignty over the waterway.

International law recognizes territorial waters in the Strait as belonging to the coastal states, principally Iran and Oman. A U.S. declaration alone would not establish American sovereignty over the waterway.

Iran Rejects Trump’s Claim

Iran has strongly rejected Trump’s statements about the strait. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi responded directly to Trump’s map, calling the U.S. president’s claim a “delusion.”

He said the claim would either be corrected or that Iran would take steps to correct what he described as Trump’s mistaken view. Iranian officials have repeatedly insisted that the Strait of Hormuz remains under the control and sovereignty of the countries bordering it.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tuesday that the strait would remain closed until the United States accepts Tehran’s demands. Those demands include lifting the U.S. blockade, releasing frozen Iranian assets, ending the oil embargo and stopping military operations against Iran.

Trump Says No Talks Are Underway

Trump’s territorial claim came at the same time as he said there were no negotiations currently taking place with Iran. In a Truth Social post Tuesday, Trump said there were “no talks or conversations” underway or scheduled with Tehran and declared that the U.S. naval blockade remained in force.

The statement appeared to contradict reports from the previous day suggesting that back-channel contacts between U.S. and Iranian officials had taken place. The breakdown in diplomacy comes after a 60-day negotiating period failed to produce a comprehensive agreement between Washington and Tehran.

A Strategic Global Waterway

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most strategically important waterways in the world. Approximately one-fifth of global oil shipments pass through the strait, making any prolonged disruption a major threat to international energy markets and global economic stability.

Shipping through the waterway has already fallen sharply because of the conflict and security concerns. Major shipping companies have avoided the route, while insurers and energy traders face growing uncertainty over whether commercial vessels can safely transit the area.

A vessel was also reportedly struck by an unknown projectile while transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, according to an alert from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center. The incident caused damage to the vessel’s engine room and resulted in a crew casualty.

Iran Strikes Back With California Map

Iran responded to Trump’s provocative map with a provocative image of its own. An official Iranian social media account associated with Iran’s consulate in Hyderabad posted a map of the United States highlighting California and labeling it “NEW TERRITORY OF ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN.”

The post appeared to be a direct satirical response to Trump’s depiction of the Strait of Hormuz as U.S. territory. California is also home to a large Iranian-American community. The exchange of maps underscores the increasingly confrontational rhetoric between Washington and Tehran.

What Would a U.S. Territorial Claim Mean?

Trump’s post does not itself change the legal status of the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway passes through territorial waters associated with Iran and Oman, and its international navigation regime is governed by international maritime law.

Any attempt by the United States to formally claim sovereignty over the strait would therefore have major legal and diplomatic consequences and could trigger opposition from Iran, Oman and other regional states. The dispute also risks complicating efforts to keep one of the world’s most important shipping routes open to international commerce.

Regional Tensions Continue to Rise

The confrontation is also placing pressure on U.S. relations with other Gulf countries. The United Arab Emirates announced Wednesday that it had suspended financial and economic transactions with Iran following what it said were Iranian missile launches toward maritime areas. Iran denied the allegation.

Iranian military officials have separately warned Gulf states against assisting U.S. military operations. The developments indicate that the dispute over Hormuz is increasingly affecting countries beyond the United States and Iran.

Global Energy Security at Risk

The latest escalation has significant implications for the global economy. If shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains severely restricted, oil and gas supplies from the Persian Gulf could be disrupted, putting upward pressure on energy prices.

Higher energy prices could increase inflation, raise transportation and manufacturing costs and put additional pressure on economies across Asia, Europe and other energy-importing regions. For China, India, Japan, South Korea and European economies that rely heavily on Gulf energy supplies, prolonged disruption could have particularly serious consequences.

A New Flashpoint in the U.S.-Iran Conflict

Trump’s “New U.S. Territory” map represents another escalation in the increasingly bitter confrontation between Washington and Tehran. While the post does not establish any change in sovereignty, it has added a new territorial dimension to an already dangerous dispute over the future of the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran has rejected the claim, while commercial shipping remains severely disrupted and diplomatic efforts remain stalled. The coming days could determine whether the dispute remains primarily a war of rhetoric or develops into a broader confrontation over control of one of the world’s most important strategic waterways.

For the international community, the stakes are enormous. The Strait of Hormuz is not only a regional waterway—it is a critical artery for global energy supplies, international trade and economic stability.

Shibbir Ahmed, New York: The United States has imposed sanctions on International Criminal Court (ICC) President Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Abdoulaye Sey. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the sanctions on Tuesday, August 18. On Wednesday, August 19, Japan, the ICC and the Netherlands expressed opposition to the move.

The Trump administration accused Akane and Sey of being directly involved in efforts to investigate, arrest, detain or prosecute government officials and nationals of countries that have not accepted the ICC’s jurisdiction. The dispute between Washington and the court has intensified particularly over the ICC’s arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

Akane and Sey Added to U.S. Sanctions List

Tomoko Akane, a Japanese national, has served as president of the ICC since 2024. She is the court’s sixth president and the first Japanese national to hold the position. Abdoulaye Sey, a Senegalese national, is a senior trial lawyer at the ICC. He was part of the prosecution team involved in seeking an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Sey has also been nominated for election as an ICC judge.

According to the U.S. Treasury Department’s sanctions list, Akane and Sey have been designated as Specially Designated Nationals (SDNs). As a result, any property or property interests they hold within U.S. jurisdiction will be blocked, and U.S. citizens and companies will generally be prohibited from conducting transactions with them. The U.S. Treasury Department also issued a general license on August 18, allowing certain transactions involving Akane and Sey to be wound down until September 17.

Why Did the U.S. Impose the Sanctions?

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Akane and Sey were directly involved in ICC efforts to investigate, arrest, detain or prosecute officials from countries whose governments have not accepted the court’s jurisdiction. Rubio has accused the ICC of exceeding the limits of its authority and said its actions pose a threat to U.S. sovereignty. The Trump administration has repeatedly argued that the ICC has sought to expand its jurisdiction by taking legal action against officials from the United States and its close ally, Israel.

Neither the United States nor Israel is a member of the ICC. Under the Rome Statute, however, the court can exercise jurisdiction over certain international crimes committed on the territory of a member state, including in circumstances involving nationals of non-member countries.

ICC Arrest Warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant

The ICC issued arrest warrants in November 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and then-Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in connection with alleged war crimes related to the Gaza conflict. The decision further intensified tensions between Washington and the ICC. The Trump administration has since imposed several rounds of sanctions against officials associated with the court.

Former ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan, along with several judges and other court officials, had previously been placed under U.S. sanctions. The addition of Akane and Sey further expands the list of ICC officials targeted by Washington.

ICC Condemns U.S. Action

Following the latest sanctions, the ICC strongly condemned the U.S. decision on Wednesday. The court described the move as a serious attack on judicial independence and a threat to the international rule-of-law system. The ICC said that when judicial officials face threats and pressure for carrying out their legal responsibilities, it puts not only the independence of the court but the broader international justice system at risk.

The court also warned that such coercive measures could undermine the ability of victims of war crimes and other serious international crimes to seek justice.

Japan Voices Rare Criticism

Japan has criticized the United States over the sanctions imposed on its citizen and ICC President Tomoko Akane. On Wednesday, Japan’s Foreign Ministry described the U.S. decision as “very unfortunate.” Tokyo said it has long supported the ICC’s efforts to ensure accountability for the most serious crimes of concern to the international community.

Japan also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the rule of law within the international community and said it would continue discussions with relevant countries on the issue. The public criticism from Japan, a close U.S. ally, is considered significant amid growing international debate over the future of the ICC.

Netherlands Supports the ICC

The ICC is headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands. Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen has also opposed the U.S. sanctions. He said international courts and tribunals must be allowed to carry out their responsibilities independently. Berendsen also invited ICC President Tomoko Akane for discussions and reaffirmed the Netherlands’ continued support for the court.

Trump Administration’s Campaign Against the ICC

The Trump administration’s current campaign against the ICC began on February 6, 2025, when President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled “Imposing Sanctions on the International Criminal Court.”

The executive order subsequently became the basis for sanctions against several ICC officials. The addition of Akane and Sey represents another escalation in Washington’s pressure campaign against the court.

In July, Rubio took an even tougher position, saying the Trump administration would intensify its campaign against the ICC. Washington has also encouraged other countries to reconsider their membership in the court.

Growing International Divide Over the ICC

The latest U.S. sanctions have further exposed divisions among Western allies over the ICC and its role in international justice. Japan and the Netherlands have defended the court’s independence, while several European countries have also expressed support for the ICC and the principle of judicial independence.

At the same time, political pressure surrounding the ICC has increased among its member states, with some countries recently discussing or considering whether to withdraw from the court.

The legality of U.S. sanctions against ICC officials is also being challenged in U.S. courts. In June, three ICC judges filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, while human rights organizations have filed separate legal challenges. The new sanctions against Tomoko Akane and Abdoulaye Sey mark another escalation in the ongoing confrontation between the Trump administration and the ICC.

Washington argues that the court’s actions threaten U.S. sovereignty and the security of its allies. The ICC, meanwhile, maintains that pressure and sanctions against judicial officials threaten the independence of international justice and the rule of law.

Shibbir Ahmed, New York: U.S. President Donald Trump has ruled out any immediate negotiations with Iran, as the standoff over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz deepens and uncertainty over global energy supplies continues to grow.

Trump said Tuesday, August 18, that no talks were currently taking place with Tehran and that none were scheduled. His comments came as Iran insisted that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed to shipping and said the waterway would stay shut until the United States meets its demands.

The conflicting claims have added to uncertainty surrounding one of the world’s most important energy corridors. The Strait of Hormuz carries roughly one-fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, making prolonged disruption a major concern for energy markets and the global economy.

No Talks With Tehran

Trump’s statement marked a sharp departure from earlier suggestions that diplomatic contacts might resume. Iran has indicated that it is willing to discuss the conflict, but Tehran has demanded significant concessions, including an end to the U.S. blockade, the release of frozen Iranian assets and other measures before normal shipping through the strait can resume.

Trump, however, has rejected the idea that Washington is currently negotiating with Tehran and has continued to maintain pressure on Iran.

The breakdown follows the expiration of a 60-day U.S.-Iran memorandum that had been intended to provide time for negotiations toward a broader agreement. The arrangement expired without a lasting peace deal, leaving the two sides further apart.

Hormuz Traffic Falls Sharply

Despite Trump’s assertion that the Strait of Hormuz is open, commercial shipping through the waterway remains severely restricted.

According to Kpler data cited by Reuters, only six commodity vessels passed through the strait on Tuesday, down from nine the previous day and below the recent average of about 11 daily transits. Major shipowners continue to avoid the waterway because of security concerns.

The decline in shipping has raised concerns about the continued flow of oil and gas from the Persian Gulf.

China, one of the world’s largest buyers of Middle Eastern energy, is particularly exposed to the disruption. Two major Chinese shipping companies that previously transported a substantial share of China’s Middle Eastern oil imports have stopped operating through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb.

Oil Prices Under Pressure

The uncertainty has already affected global energy markets. Brent crude was trading around $91.20 a barrel on Wednesday, August 19, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was around $85.10 a barrel. Both benchmarks had reached their highest levels since late July before retreating slightly.

Analysts say the continuing risk surrounding Hormuz is keeping a geopolitical premium in oil prices. If the disruption persists or the conflict escalates, crude prices could move substantially higher again.

The implications extend beyond gasoline and transportation costs. Higher energy prices can increase inflationary pressure, raise production and shipping costs, and complicate economic policy for governments around the world.

Iran Says Strait Will Remain Closed

Iran has maintained that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until Washington meets conditions Tehran considers necessary for reopening the waterway. The Iranian position directly contradicts Trump’s assertion that the strait remains open and safe.

The standoff has effectively created two competing realities: Washington says commercial shipping can use the waterway, while Tehran maintains that normal passage will not resume until its demands are addressed. That uncertainty itself has become a major problem for shipping companies, insurers and energy traders.

Regional Tensions Escalate

The crisis is no longer limited to the United States and Iran. The United Arab Emirates announced Wednesday that it had suspended financial and economic transactions with Iran following what it said were Iranian missile launches toward maritime areas. Iran denied the UAE’s allegations.

The UAE’s decision represents another significant escalation because the country has historically been an important commercial and financial channel for Iran despite extensive U.S. sanctions.

The crisis has also affected shipping beyond the Gulf, with security concerns extending to the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandeb waterway.

Washington and Tehran Remain Far Apart

The collapse of the latest diplomatic effort leaves little indication of an immediate breakthrough. Iran wants sanctions relief, an end to the U.S. blockade, the release of frozen assets and compensation related to the conflict. Trump has rejected Iran’s demands and has continued to apply economic and military pressure.

Both sides have also accused the other of blocking the path to peace. The result is a dangerous stalemate: the United States says it wants Iran to accept an agreement on its nuclear program and broader security concerns, while Tehran insists that Washington must first change its own military and economic policies.

Global Economic Consequences

The Strait of Hormuz crisis is being closely watched far beyond the Middle East. A prolonged disruption could affect energy-importing economies across Asia and Europe, particularly countries heavily dependent on Gulf oil and gas.

Higher crude prices could also increase inflation at a time when central banks are attempting to balance economic growth with price stability. Reuters reported that financial markets have already been reacting to the broader U.S.-Iran confrontation, with concerns over energy disruptions contributing to higher borrowing costs and renewed inflation fears.

A Critical Test for Diplomacy

For now, the immediate question is whether Washington and Tehran can return to negotiations before the Hormuz crisis becomes a longer-term disruption to global trade. Trump has ruled out current or scheduled talks, while Iran continues to link the reopening of the waterway to political and economic concessions.

Meanwhile, commercial vessels are avoiding the strait, oil prices remain elevated and regional tensions continue to spread. The longer the standoff lasts, the greater the risk that the Strait of Hormuz becomes not only a flashpoint in the U.S.-Iran conflict but also a major source of instability for the global economy.

For the international community, the stakes extend well beyond the Middle East: the future of one of the world’s most important shipping routes—and the stability of global energy markets—may depend on whether diplomacy can be restored.

Shibbir Ahmed: A high-level U.S. business delegation representing 25 American companies has arrived in Dhaka to explore new investment opportunities in Bangladesh, highlighting growing interest among leading U.S. businesses in the country’s energy, technology, agriculture, and financial sectors.

The executive delegation of the U.S.-Bangladesh Business Council (USBBC) arrived in Dhaka on August 11 and participated in meetings and business programs through August 13. Representatives of major American companies, including Chevron, Excelerate Energy, Visa, and Mastercard, were among those taking part in the visit.

The delegation’s visit is being viewed as an important initiative to deepen the longstanding economic relationship between Bangladesh and the United States, which spans more than five decades.

U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen welcomed the delegation to Dhaka, saying that leading American companies from the energy, technology, agriculture, and finance sectors had come to explore opportunities and build on more than 50 years of U.S.-Bangladesh economic ties.

Focus on Trade and Investment

The delegation’s primary objective is to explore new investment opportunities and potential business partnerships in Bangladesh. Energy, infrastructure, technology, digital services, healthcare, agriculture, and financial services are among the sectors attracting particular attention from U.S. businesses.

During meetings with Bangladeshi officials, representatives of the U.S. business community discussed ways to expand bilateral trade and investment and strengthen private-sector cooperation.

The delegation also met with Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir, with discussions focusing on expanding economic relations and creating greater opportunities for U.S. investment in areas including industry, infrastructure, energy, technology, the digital economy, and healthcare.

Atul Keshap, President of the U.S.-Bangladesh Business Council and a former U.S. ambassador, also emphasized the potential for expanding business cooperation between the two countries.

$5 Billion Investment Goal

The U.S. business delegation’s visit comes as the American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) has set an ambitious target for mobilizing additional U.S. investment in Bangladesh.

AmCham has said it aims to help mobilize up to $5 billion in additional U.S. investment over the next five years, involving existing member companies as well as potential new American investors.

The investment target was discussed during an August 11 meeting between Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and an AmCham executive delegation.

The discussions also covered measures to improve Bangladesh’s investment climate, including reforms related to taxation, value-added tax, customs procedures, and other issues affecting businesses.

AmCham has said that its member companies have already invested more than $5 billion in Bangladesh. If the new investment target is achieved, the U.S. corporate presence in Bangladesh could expand significantly.

Energy and Technology Attract Strong Interest

The participation of companies such as Chevron and Excelerate Energy underscores the importance of Bangladesh’s energy sector to American investors.

Bangladesh has growing demand for reliable energy and infrastructure, creating potential opportunities for U.S. companies with expertise in energy production, liquefied natural gas, infrastructure, and related technologies.

The participation of global financial technology companies such as Visa and Mastercard also points to growing interest in Bangladesh’s rapidly developing digital economy and financial-services sector.

With a large population, expanding consumer market, growing digital economy, and increasing demand for infrastructure and energy, Bangladesh offers a range of potential opportunities for international investors.

New Opportunities Following the Trade Agreement

The U.S. business delegation’s visit comes several months after Bangladesh and the United States signed the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade earlier this year.

The agreement created a new framework for expanding bilateral trade and improving market access between the two countries.

Against this backdrop, the business delegation’s visit can be viewed as more than a routine commercial engagement. It represents an effort to translate recent progress in government-to-government economic relations into concrete investment, business partnerships, and private-sector cooperation.

For Bangladesh, increased U.S. investment could bring more than capital. New investments could also contribute to technology transfer, skills development, employment generation, and greater integration into global supply chains.

For American companies, Bangladesh represents a large and evolving South Asian market with opportunities in manufacturing, energy, digital services, financial technology, infrastructure, and consumer-oriented businesses.

A New Chapter in Economic Relations?

For more than five decades, Bangladesh-U.S. economic relations have been strongly associated with trade, particularly Bangladesh’s ready-made garment exports to the American market. Recent developments, however, suggest that the economic relationship could be entering a broader phase.

The visit by U.S. Special Envoy Sergio Gor to Bangladesh earlier this month, followed by the arrival of the high-level U.S. business delegation and AmCham’s $5 billion investment target, indicates growing engagement not only between the two governments but also between the private sectors of both countries.

The challenge now will be turning growing investor interest into actual projects. To attract and retain more U.S. investment, Bangladesh will need to maintain policy stability, improve transparency, streamline regulatory procedures, strengthen infrastructure, and ensure a more predictable business environment.

The latest U.S. business delegation’s visit therefore represents both an opportunity and a test for Bangladesh. Whether the growing interest of American companies can be converted into long-term investment, new jobs, technology partnerships, and expanded trade will be an important measure of the next phase of Bangladesh-U.S. economic relations.