15 Ashoj, Kathmandu – Pakistan has secured a place in the men’s cricket final at the Asian Games. In the first semifinal held on Thursday, Pakistan defeated Bangladesh, ensuring at least a silver medal. Due to rain delays, the match was reduced to 13 overs per side. Pakistan chased down Bangladesh’s target of 112 runs in 11.3 overs. Abdul Samad remained unbeaten on 30 runs, while Hasan Nawaz contributed an unbeaten 27 runs. For Bangladesh, Mehedi Hasan, Nasum Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, and Rishad Hossain each claimed one wicket.
Batting first after losing the toss, Bangladesh scored 111 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 13 overs. Tohid Rido’s top score of 42 runs was particularly notable. Saif Hassan added 19 runs and Mosaddek Hossain contributed 11. Pakistan will now compete in the final for the gold medal against the winner of the India vs Sri Lanka semifinal, while Bangladesh will face the defeated team from that match in the bronze medal contest.
Passengers from Israel have recounted how they managed to subdue a co-pilot who attempted to crash a Flydubai flight after attacking the pilot with a knife. As the aircraft was descending rapidly, many passengers forcibly rushed to the cockpit and successfully restrained the assailant. Subsequently, two crew members regained control and executed an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
Indian national and injured pilot Smith Machhar was praised by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for opening the cockpit door and preventing a major disaster. Flydubai has announced the suspension of all flights to Israel until the investigation into the incident is complete.
Passenger Almog Italy described the sudden drop of the plane during the flight as similar to the weightlessness experienced on a rollercoaster. He said, “The intense and terrifying G-forces caused the plane to plunge like a rollercoaster.” When the plane began dropping for a second time, he observed people running towards the cockpit.
Prime Minister Netanyahu also stated that Saudi Arabia is conducting an investigation into the co-pilot who initiated the attack. US President Donald Trump praised the Flydubai pilot, calling him a “hero.” According to Trump, the pilot confronted the co-pilot’s knife attack, opened the cockpit door to seek help, and successfully prevented the plane from crashing.
Caption, Zayd and his brothers with their parents in the 1970s
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“When I was a child, they gave me revolutionary education… they taught me how to spot plainclothes police and FBI agents in a crowd… they taught me how to speak in secret codes on the phone… to me, it was like a game.”
Zayd Ayers Dohrn’s childhood was unlike any other.
His bedroom walls had no pictures of Disney characters. Instead, there were posters of Che Guevara and Ho Chi Minh. For years, he could not attend primary school. Marshmallows were forbidden on family outings. At least once, they purposely toured a federal prison to study security before planning a jailbreak.
Both Parents on the Most Wanted List
Zayd’s mother, Bernardine Dohrn, was one of the most wanted fugitives by the FBI when he was born. She was a member of the radical anti-war group Weather Underground, which targeted key government buildings like the Capitol, the Pentagon, and the State Department with coordinated bombings to protest discrimination and racial injustice in the US.
His father, Bill Ayers, was a co-founder of the group.
As a result, the family lived undercover, constantly changing residences and remaining vigilant to avoid capture.
Photo source, Bettmann Archive/Getty Images
Caption, The FBI designated Weather Underground as a domestic terrorist group
This was normal for Zayd.
“I knew the FBI was after us. They never lied to me about it. They explained it in a way a child could understand. We were an illegal group taking from the rich to give to the poor.”
Both his parents came from comfortable white middle-class families. His mother was an intelligent law student at the University of Chicago, but she became active in the rent strike campaign when Martin Luther King Jr visited the city in 1966. This experience cemented her belief that America needed fundamental change.
The assassination of King and the police killing of Black Panther leader Fred Hampton pushed her further towards radical politics.
“I think the killing pushed my mother and many others toward extremism. She saw Hampton not only as a friend but also an ideal. Her own government had killed him.”
Photo source, Getty Images
Caption, Bernardine as a student leader in 1968
His father was drawn to the group due to the Vietnam War and military draft issues.
“Back then, their slogan was ‘Bring the war home.’ Meaning, bring the violence of the Vietnam War into American cities through protests so people would become aware of what the government was doing abroad, to African Americans, and to its own leaders.”
Bomb in a Bag
Photo source, Gado/Getty Images
Caption, A Weather Underground poster featuring symbolic rainbow and lightning used in 1971 to call for the end of the Vietnam War
Today, it seems unimaginable that small groups of mostly middle-class students could carry out bombings at heavily guarded government buildings, but Zayd believes youth, race, and education gave the group an edge.
Women, playing assistant roles, would gain access to government buildings and gather intelligence. They would hide explosives in places unsuspected, like women’s restrooms.
Zayd says, “They had the advantage of being college-educated, well-spoken, and could slip out of power centers without drawing much attention.”
The privileges related to their racial background also helped the group form an alliance with the Black Liberation Army, distinct from the Black Panther Party. White activists used their reach and invisibility to aid Black activists. They also transported fugitives following jailbreaks and other illegal acts.
Photo source, Bettmann/Corbis photo via FBI
Caption, Three members of Weather Underground died in a March 1970 townhouse bombing in Greenwich Village
A Different Childhood
As Zayd grew older, the family’s underground existence shaped his childhood. Due to lack of formal identification documents, he could not attend school.
Most of his friends were children of other activists.
His childhood was otherwise similar to other American children’s — including road trips, family visits, and camping.
But even these activities were tinged with revolutionary elements.
“We never visited Disneyland, the US Capitol, or places like that. My parents took me to sites of revolutionary struggle — where their heroes died, where Fred Hampton was killed by the police, where John Brown was hanged, and where Nat Turner led a slave revolt. These visits showed where they were fighting against injustice.”
Later, Zayd realized these family trips had a different purpose. One of their hideouts was less than a kilometer from a federal prison holding a Black Panther member. The visits were part of plans to help fugitives escape.
Photo source, Zayd Ayers Dohrn
Caption, Zayd with his mother
Zayd says his parents made real efforts to prevent physical harm, conducting bombings in empty buildings with prior warnings. But he acknowledges that once a movement becomes violent, damage is sometimes unavoidable.
Before he was born, one of his father’s girlfriends and two other group members died while making bombs. As a child, he understood these dangers.
“I was truly worried. Many of my friends had lost their parents. Lots of parents had been in jail for a long time.”
Photo source, Getty Images
Caption, Site reduced to rubble after the bomb explosion, with construction workers and police present
‘I Am Proud’
Now a parent himself, Zayd has spent years reflecting on his parents’ choices.
He compares their ideology to those who voluntarily enlist in the military — believing they are fighting against their own government and accepting the personal consequences.
“In many ways, I am proud of them. At a time when many white Americans stood by injustice doing nothing, my parents insisted something had to be done.”
But Zayd struggles to imagine leaving his own children at home while engaging in activities such as bank robberies or jailbreaks.
“But I feel that is also an opportunity. Many people in this world have no option but to fight oppression and injustice even if it means risking their families.”
Photo source, Zayd Ayers Dohrn
Caption, Zayd with his mother, brother Malik, and the family’s adopted brother Chesa
After his younger brother was born, Bernardine surrendered under an agreement hoping to pursue a normal life for the family.
Early illegal and unethical methods used by the FBI during investigations led to Bernardine facing no prison time. However, after refusing to testify against other Weather Underground members, she was detained in custody for almost a year.
Zayd’s father stayed outside to care for Zayd, his younger brother, and children of other incarcerated activists.
At age five, Zayd was sad and angry, longing for his mother to return home.
His mother sent him a letter from prison, which he still occasionally reads.
She wrote about how being a mother was the most important thing in the world and that being a revolutionary was equally significant.
The letter referenced Martin Luther King Jr, Fred Hampton, and Malcolm X – emphasizing that they fought for a just cause and had children of their own.
Photo source, Michael Loccisano/Getty Images
Caption, Bernardine, Zayd, and Bill at the New York premiere of Zayd’s podcast ‘Mother Country Radicals’
Both of Zayd’s parents are now over 80 years old.
Zayd notes they are ‘very good grandparents’ and chuckles when pointing out their advanced age has mellowed their politics.
After leaving the underground, his mother became a law professor and ran a legal clinic for four decades offering advice to victims of systemic criminal justice inequalities. His father became a professor dedicated to public education reform.
They changed their methods but did not abandon their beliefs.
“They felt insulted whenever someone called them moderates or liberals.”
This article was adapted from the BBC World Service’s Outlook episode titled ‘America’s Most Wanted: My Family on the Run.’
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October 1, Kathmandu – Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo has left the national team’s training camp ahead of the UEFA Nations League match against Denmark. Ronaldo announced via social media on Wednesday that he had decided to leave the camp. This move came shortly after coach Jorge Jesus announced that Ronaldo would not be in the starting lineup for Thursday’s match in Copenhagen. Ronaldo stated that he made the decision after discussions with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation and promised to reveal the reasons at an appropriate time.
At 41 years old, Ronaldo is the highest-scoring male international footballer, having netted 146 goals for Portugal. He is also pursuing the milestone of scoring 1,000 goals throughout his professional career. Ronaldo did not play in the 2–1 victory against Norway on Sunday and has not participated in any training sessions with the team since then. This situation has sparked speculation about his relationship with coach Jesus, who has denied any issues, emphasizing that the same rules apply to all players and that final decisions rest with the coach.
According to Jorge Jesus, Gonçalo Ramos will start in the match against Denmark, but Ronaldo could be brought onto the field depending on the circumstances of the game. Jesus admitted that not fielding Ronaldo after extended warm-up during the Norway match was a mistake and acknowledged that any player could feel disappointed in such a situation. The Portuguese Football Federation confirmed Ronaldo’s departure from the training camp and stated that the rest of the 24 players will continue preparations as planned.
Portugal currently tops Group A4 of the Nations League with 6 points from two games. Denmark and Norway follow with 3 points each, while Wales remains without points. Portugal is scheduled to play Norway again on Sunday. It remains unclear whether Ronaldo’s decision to leave the camp affects only the international break or will continue thereafter.
Nepal has expressed disagreement over Malaysia’s decision to select manpower agencies without any consultation with Nepali authorities, according to officials who say a diplomatic note has been sent to the Malaysian government on this matter.
Malaysia’s Foreign Workers Centralized Management System (FWCMS) website lists 25 Nepali manpower agencies as ‘primary’ and 250 agencies as ‘secondary’.
Following discussions between departmental ministers of the two countries, a diplomatic note was sent, according to Meera Acharya, spokesperson for Nepal’s Ministry of Youth, Labour and Employment.
She clarified that any actions outside Nepal’s existing laws and regulations will not be accepted by the government.
Prime Minister Balendra Shah (Balen) raised issues concerning Nepali workers in talks with his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim. Afterward, on the following Thursday, Nepal’s Labour Minister Ramji Yadav and Malaysia’s Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri M. Saravanan held a telephone conversation, the ministry said.
What Is Causing the Discontent?
Officials say the Malaysian side did not engage in any consultation or discussion before selecting manpower agencies to recruit Nepali workers.
According to them, Nepal only learned about the selection after Malaysia publicly announced the chosen manpower agencies.
“We are clear that the worker recruitment process must be transparent. But how were these companies, outside our system and without informing our government or laws, selected? What was the evaluation process?” questioned spokesperson Acharya.
Nepali authorities are querying why exactly 25 agencies were selected instead of 24 or 26 by the Malaysian side.
“If these agencies engage in malpractice in the future, it will be challenging for the government to enforce control and take action,” she added.
“Therefore, any step taken above government law concerning workers and unemployment issues will not be acceptable to the government.”
After listing 25 companies as primary agencies, Nepal’s Labour Minister raised concerns with the Malaysian Human Resources Minister about some agencies being excluded and requested a written response, Acharya confirmed.
“We suggested they send documents, after which we received the idea to send a diplomatic note. Once we get a reply, we will decide the next steps,” she said.
“We will proceed only as directed by the Nepalese government. However, when entering into any foreign company tie-ups, the government must not exceed the limits set by the law.”
Previously, Prime Minister Balendra Shah had a recent telephone conversation with Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim regarding the flood situation in the Bhote Koshi-Trishuli region.
During that call, Shah raised concerns about agency roles in Nepali worker recruitment, which Anwar later mentioned on social media.
“The recruitment process must be free from exploitation and unfair fees. The process should be fair while protecting workers’ rights and interests,” Anwar wrote.
The Foreign Workers Centralized Management System has not responded via email regarding why Nepali agencies self-selected.
‘Equal Treatment Should Be Ensured’
Image Source, Reuters
Image Caption, Malaysia is a major destination for Nepali workers seeking foreign employment
Some foreign employment operators have expressed dissatisfaction with the selection being limited to only specific agencies.
Dek Bahadur Khatri, President of the Nepal Foreign Employment Entrepreneurs’ Association, emphasized that agencies with equal rights should receive equal treatment.
“We believe all manpower agencies should have the right to send workers to all countries. Restricting permission to only 25 agencies challenges state mechanisms,” he told the media.
Mentioning that specific health institutions are designated to conduct health checks for foreign-bound workers, Khatri noted a similar policy appears to be followed regarding manpower agencies.
“Therefore, placing one-sided control above the state system is wrong,” he stated.
He argues that since all manpower companies operate under uniform labor laws, the decision to select only certain agencies should be revoked.
“A review is essential, and the currently listed agencies must also be reconsidered. If that is not feasible, then a diplomatic solution with skilled negotiation must be pursued,” Khatri said.
‘…Otherwise Workers Will Face Problems’
Some experts interpret the recent move as an attempt to send workers disregarding official state mechanisms.
Labour expert Meena Paudel explained that manpower agencies in Nepal and Malaysia seem to be asserting dominance above the state.
“They appear to be ignoring formal state mechanisms and trying to establish monopolies in the labor market,” she said.
Paudel warned that if this issue is not managed properly, Nepali workers will be the most affected.
“Our workers could face labor exploitation and unfair contractual conditions.”
“Issues such as human trafficking, assignment to unrelated jobs during unemployment, and failure to provide agreed-upon services might arise.”
“Diplomatic dialogue through formal channels is necessary to resolve these issues,” she recommended.
“Meanwhile, legal proceedings should be initiated against relevant manpower agencies in Nepal. Besides this, Nepal’s possible actions seem limited,” Paudel added.
Malaysia remains an attractive destination for Nepali migrant workers, with a significant number of Nepalis employed there.
During the ‘Broadcast Sponsor Signing’ event, Dharma Raj Bhusal, Chairman of Himalaya Television Network, stated that this partnership has created a valuable opportunity for brands to connect with consumers effectively.
October 1, Kathmandu – Red Bull has been announced as the title sponsor for the live telecast of the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL) on Himalaya Sports Television. Himalaya Sports unveiled Red Bull as the ‘Title Sponsor’ in a program held on Wednesday.
The lineup of sponsors also includes Bajaj Pulsar, Prostyle, Nepal Life Insurance, Proton, Asian Paints, Soyum, and Himstar. Bajaj Pulsar is designated as the association partner, while Prostyle, Nepal Life Insurance, and Proton serve as ‘Powered By’ sponsors. Asian Paints, Soyum, and Himstar have joined as co-sponsors.
At the ‘Broadcast Sponsor Signing’ event, Dharma Raj Bhusal emphasized that this collaboration goes beyond mere advertising time sales through sports events, creating a meaningful partnership that connects brands directly with consumers. ‘We are not just selling ad slots for sports events; we are building meaningful collaborations that tie brands to their audience,’ he said.
Bhusal described the NPL broadcast as both a challenging responsibility and a significant opportunity. ‘Our investment in sports is not accidental; it is a strategic part of our long-term business plan,’ he added.
Surendra Silwal, Managing Director of Sars Beverages Pvt. Ltd., representing Red Bull Nepal, expressed pleasure at partnering with Himalaya Television as the title sponsor. He mentioned that Red Bull has consistently supported the NPL since its inception.
‘Sports and energy are the core principles of Red Bull. We invest heavily in sports, especially cricket,’ he stated. ‘Since the beginning of the NPL, Red Bull has collaborated with a long-term commitment.’
Paras Khadka, Secretary of the Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN), commented that Nepali sports and cricket are gradually becoming more sophisticated. ‘Corporate sector support for Nepali cricket over recent times is commendable. We hope this support extends across all sports,’ he said.
Himalaya Sports secured the broadcasting rights for the third edition of the NPL by paying a record sum of nearly NPR 172.4 million including taxes. This stands as one of the largest investments ever made in Nepalese sports broadcasting.
Shyam Kandel, Executive Director of Himalaya Television, explained that the investment was made after evaluating market conditions carefully. Suraj Giri, CEO and Director of Himalayan Sports, shared that the NPL plans to offer more than just the games — they aim to connect fans with players.
‘Our goal is not only to broadcast the game but to bring it closer to the audience. We want to tell compelling stories and link players with their fans. We also want Nepalis abroad to feel a connection to their homeland, even if only for a short time,’ he said.
October 1, Kathmandu – Indian captain Shubman Gill set several records by scoring a double century in the second One Day International (ODI) against the West Indies. In the match held on Wednesday at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, Gill completed his double century off 117 balls, having reached his first century in just 62 balls. His stellar performance helped India chase down the target of 406 runs, securing the series victory against the West Indies. During the innings, Gill shared a 255-run opening partnership with Rohit Sharma, who scored 101 runs.
Gill’s remarkable innings contributed to India’s historic win and established several key records. He scored 206 runs while chasing, marking the highest individual score in ODI cricket during a successful run chase. This surpassed the previous record held by Glenn Maxwell, who scored 201 runs against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup. Gill also broke the record for the fastest double century in ODI cricket, achieving the feat in 117 balls. The former record was held by India’s Ishan Kishan, who reached a double century in 125 balls against Bangladesh in 2023.
By scoring his second double century in ODI cricket, Gill became the second Indian batsman to achieve this milestone, following Rohit Sharma, who has accomplished it three times. As captain, Gill scored the fastest century in just 62 balls, breaking Rohit Sharma’s record of 63 balls made against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup. Additionally, Gill has scored over 2,000 ODI runs on Indian soil in just 33 innings, setting the record for the fastest to reach 2,000 runs in a single country. As captain, he amassed 333 runs in an ODI series of three or fewer matches, surpassing former Zimbabwean Brendon Taylor’s record of 310 runs. Gill also became the first player in the world to score over 300 runs twice in a three-match or shorter ODI series, having previously scored 360 runs against New Zealand in 2023.
October 1, Kathmandu – Captain Shubman Gill’s magnificent double century and Rohit Sharma’s century partnership secured a record-breaking win for India in the second One Day International (ODI) against the West Indies. Played on Wednesday in Guwahati, India successfully chased down the massive target of 406 runs set by the West Indies, marking their highest successful run chase. India reached the target in 43.3 overs, losing just two wickets.
Gill and Rohit built a solid 255-run opening partnership. Gill remained unbeaten with 223 runs off 133 balls, while Rohit contributed 101 runs. Meanwhile, Ruturaj Gaikwad scored an unbeaten 31, and Virat Kohli added 29 runs.
Having lost the toss, the West Indies batted first and posted an imposing total of 405 runs for seven wickets in their 50 overs. Three West Indies batsmen scored centuries: opener John Campbell, captain Shai Hope, and Amir Jangoo. Campbell scored 101 runs off 68 balls with 9 fours and 5 sixes, Hope made 104 runs from 94 balls, and Jangoo contributed 114 runs off 77 balls. Ruston Chase remained unbeaten on 29 runs.
For India, Gurinder Brar, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav each took two wickets, while Prasidh Krishna claimed one wicket. This followed India’s comfortable chase of 297 runs in the first ODI. Previously, India’s highest successful run chase was 360 runs against Australia in 2013.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described his telephone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump as positive. Modi stated on the social media platform X that the two leaders reviewed the ongoing bilateral cooperation between India and the United States in trade, defense, energy, critical technologies, and other sectors.
Modi also highlighted that both countries agreed to stay in close contact to further advance their comprehensive global strategic partnership. The discussion included regional and international issues as well. The two leaders also exchanged views on efforts to promote global peace and security.
Frequent disasters on the vital “lifeline” route connecting the Terai region to the federal capital have underscored the urgent need to construct roads on both banks of the Narayani and Trishuli rivers. Relevant authorities have recognized this critical issue and initiated discussions aimed at resolving it.
A spokesperson from the Department of Roads stated that their proposals and recommendations have already been submitted in writing to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority, aiding the formulation of disaster recovery and reconstruction plans.
“We have already initiated targeted work toward Krishnabhir. Similarly, studies are underway to develop a strong road on the opposite bank from Galchi to Narayangarh,” said spokesperson Shubharaj Nepane.
“This is not a new problem. It was on pause for some time but is now being addressed quickly and effectively.”
The Prithvi Highway section from Naubise to Mugling, one of the main routes connecting Kathmandu to the Terai, has experienced two major disaster events in recent months.
Likewise, despite ongoing improvements on the Mugling-Narayangarh section of the Prithvi Highway, landslides and rockfalls continue to pose frequent risks.
According to geologists, while an alternative road might provide a distance advantage due to the area’s geography, errors made in the past must not be repeated.
Professor Ranjan Kumar Dahal, geography expert at Tribhuvan University, stated, “Many areas are prone to landslides, so it is essential to improve infrastructure using short tunnels and partial bridges alongside traditional methods.”
Discussions with China
Image Source: Ashok Devkota
Heavy rainfall lasting for extended periods in different road sections across Nepal was caused by the flooding of the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli rivers on September 26 and a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal in mid-September, leading to significant damage.
The approximately 174-kilometer wide Prithvi Highway from Nagdhunga to Pokhara was constructed with support from the Chinese government, starting in 1967 and completed in 1974.
Currently, upgrade work is ongoing on the road section from Mugling eastward toward Pokhara, though problems persist in this area as well.
While discussions with the Chinese government regarding evaluation and improvements are ongoing, no consensus has yet been reached, the spokesperson confirmed.
Nepane said, “Regular dialogue is maintained with ministers, secretaries, and ambassadors, but no decision to move forward has been finalized.”
Although about 35 kilometers of the Mugling-Narayangarh road section have been improved, recurrent landslides frequently cause blockages and accidents.
Professor Dahal suggested constructing an advanced, faster-built road along the opposite riverbank instead of relying solely on traditional roads.
“With Chinese technology and strategic thinking being advanced, appropriate adaptation can be made according to our resources,” he added.
“However, plans should emphasize quick completion avoiding complex designs and expensive machinery.”
Serious Reassessment Required
Image Source: Nagdhunga-Mugling Road Project
Geography expert Dahal emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of road sections in the context of the Bhotekoshi-Trishuli floods.
“Identifying specific problems in each segment is crucial as delays in further work cannot be afforded,” he stressed.
Department of Roads spokesperson Nepane shared that initial assessments have begun, prioritizing reopening blocked roads.
“The evaluation is ongoing, but more research is needed to develop effective prevention measures,” he noted.
The landslide at Krishnabhir between Malekhu and Mugling had been stabilized over multiple years.
However, after the original road was destroyed by river erosion, a risky new path was opened in the landslide area, which was subsequently affected by rain once again.
Officials have temporarily reopened the old route and are planning to upgrade and build an alternative road before the next rainy season.
“Road construction is ongoing for about 1.5 kilometers between Krishnabhir, Fisling, and Benighat, with other open roadways also being widened,” shared Director General Vijay Jaisi.
“We are also considering options to build tunnels or bypass bridges at Krishnabhir.”
Department officials remain alert to the recurring problem of landslides and road washouts in other locations as well.
Primary Issue: Shift in Trishuli River’s Course
Image Source: Reuters
According to the Department of Roads, the main challenge in this section is the Trishuli River encroaching toward the road.
Spokesperson Nepane explained, “Previously, the river flowed centrally, but now it runs close to the road. This leaves the roadway vulnerable and has caused significant issues from Rasuwa-Gadhi to Narayangarh.”
“The slopes above the road are also unstable due to altered rainfall patterns. Environmental factors were ignored in local road infrastructure, and water management has been inadequate.”
Officials have indicated that since Wednesday there have been no restrictions on heavy vehicle movement between Mugling and Kathmandu.
However, landslide risks persist near Dharapani, Fisling, and Jwong Khola along the roadside, prompting advisories for travelers to remain vigilant.
Travelers are also being warned about the potential for rockfalls in areas such as Krishnabhir, Dharapani, Fisling, Ghoptebhir, Simaldhara, Hugdi, and Jwong Khola.
News updates are also available via YouTube and other social media channels. Regular broadcasts occur daily at 8:45 AM on Nepali radio.
Following over two decades of conflict that claimed the lives of more than 4,500 American soldiers, the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq has been celebrated as a victory by Iran and its allies. In reality, Iran and its supporters currently exert deep influence within Iraq. According to Iraqi security experts, this withdrawal stems from a decision made during President Joe Biden’s administration in 2024. Despite weapons-related controversies, the process was initiated under the Trump administration. This development is expected to create an open and favorable environment for Tehran and its powerful allies, potentially enabling groups such as the Islamic State and other US adversaries to become active again.
“The removal of coalition forces will strategically benefit Iran because the long-standing US military presence maintaining a balance against Tehran’s influence in Iraq is now ending,” explained Iraqi security analyst Jasim Al-Bahadli, who studies Iran-affiliated armed groups. He added that Iranian-backed factions will not only see this withdrawal as a success of their movement but will also use the opportunity to increase their impact over security policies and political decisions.
Abu Mujtaba Al-Yasiri, commander of the Islamic Resistance in Iraq—a coalition of Iran-supported armed groups—called the US troop withdrawal a historic victory. “This is a historic triumph for Iraqi Islamic resistance groups and the honorable Iraqi people. It marks a major failure of the American project,” he stated. “On September 30, we will celebrate removing a dark chapter from Iraq’s history. The occupiers failed to impose their will upon our country,” he told Reuters.
The US military’s departure is widely popular among Iraqis; however, concerns have been raised over the growing power of Iranian-backed groups, with some fearing the withdrawal happened prematurely. “We believe that Iraq is not yet fully prepared to take on complete responsibility for its security,” said Abdulrahman Al-Zobai, a Sunni tribal leader from Fallujah, a city once known as a center of resistance against the US. “All Iraqis desire full sovereignty, and there is consensus on this issue. However, I think many are fearful as the US-led coalition leaves and a power vacuum emerges,” he added.
How do natural disasters affect people’s mental health, and how can we offer support to those impacted? Major natural catastrophes or other emergencies can have direct or indirect effects on individuals’ mental well-being. Those affected may experience various mental health challenges such as fear, stress, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depression. Psychotherapy experts have provided insight into these conditions.
To identify mental health conditions in such situations, offer immediate assistance, and understand how families and communities can provide support, Pratiksha Khanal spoke with psychiatrist and assistant professor Dr. Nina Rai for the LifeLine program ‘BBC Hatemalo.’
October 1, Kathmandu – The Nepal A men’s team and the Nepal women’s cricket team are set to participate in cricket series in Bhutan. According to the schedule released by Bhutan Cricket for the ‘Bhutan Cricket Festival 2026–27,’ the Nepal A team will compete in a men’s T20I series in December, while the women’s team will take part in a women’s T20I series in January.
The Nepal A team will face Bhutan, Bahrain, Thailand, and the Maldives from December 4 to 13 in the Gelephu Men’s T20I series. Matches will be held at the Gelephu International Cricket Ground.
Following this, from December 15 to 24, a men’s T20I triangular series will be played among Bhutan, Bahrain, and the Maldives. Then, from December 26 to 30, Bhutan and the Maldives will compete in a men’s T20I bilateral friendly series.
The Nepal women’s team will participate in the ‘Lotus Cup’ Women’s T20I quadrangular series scheduled for January 2027. Alongside Nepal and hosts Bhutan, Indonesia and Hong Kong, China will also compete in this series. Bhutan Cricket will additionally hold the ‘Mindful Cup’ Women’s T20I quadrangular series in January, featuring Bhutan, Japan, Oman, and Indonesia.
From January 30 to February 2, Bhutan and Oman will compete in a women’s T20I bilateral friendly series. In total, the Bhutan Cricket Festival 2026–27 will host six international series involving both men’s and women’s teams.
On September 26, floods in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers caused significant damage to major highways in the districts of Rasuwa, Nuwakot, and Dhading, with dozens of bridges being swept away. According to the Department of Roads, extensive damage occurred to the Galchi-Rasuwagadhi Highway and the Prithvi Highway, with 42 bridges reported as washed away so far.
Rebuilding these physical infrastructures, which are vital to the daily lives of the flood-affected population, is crucial. The lack of such structures has exacerbated difficulties in crossing rivers and commuting in certain areas. On this matter, Sagar Budhathoki conducted an interview with Shubharaj Nyaupane, Deputy Director General and Spokesperson of the Department of Roads, for the “BBC Hatmalo” program.
October 1, Kathmandu – Iran’s appellate court has upheld the sentence of 74 lashes against renowned singer Parastu Ahmadi. Ahmadi’s lawyers claim the appellate court overturned the lower court’s ruling without holding any hearing. The 29-year-old singer performed a livestream concert on her YouTube channel in December 2024, wearing a sleeveless outfit and without a hijab. The concert video went viral, attracting millions of viewers, prompting Iran’s judiciary to take legal action against her. The judiciary deemed the performance a “violation of the country’s legal and cultural norms.”
Earlier this year, a criminal court in Qom convicted Ahmadi and eight members of her band and production team for “publishing obscene and offensive content.” Apart from the 74 lashes, Ahmadi was banned for two years from participating in any visual or audio activities and forbidden from leaving the country. One of Ahmadi’s lawyers stated, “Organizing this concert is not a crime for us. The lower court imposed the harshest sentence despite other available punishment options. The appellate court endorsed the verdict without a hearing, seemingly aiming to prevent any reconsideration.”
The sentencing has triggered strong reactions among Iranian citizens and human rights activists. Exiled singer Googoosh wrote on social media, “We hope these dark days will end. Women will gain the freedom to live and decide what to wear, and art will once again flourish in our homeland.” Senior musician Hossein Alizadeh expressed his willingness to receive 70 lashes instead of Parastu Ahmadi. Amnesty International condemned the flogging sentence as cruel, inhuman, and degrading.
Previously, in January 2024, Kurdish-Iranian activist Roya Hesamati was sentenced to 74 lashes for posting pictures without a hijab. Iranian law, based on Sharia principles, mandates that minors and adults cover their hair with a hijab and wear clothing that conceals their bodies in public. In 2022, nationwide protests erupted following the death of 22-year-old Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini while in the custody of morality police. Since then, many women have deliberately violated the hijab laws by appearing without head coverings in public places. Recently, conservative leader Gholamali Haddad-Adel stated that because Iran is at war with the U.S. and Israel, officials are unable to fully focus on enforcing hijab regulations.
