Top News Headlines for November 17, 2025
Here's a roundup of the major stories making waves today, based on global reports. I've focused on the most prominent developments in politics, international affairs, and other key areas.
World News
- Bangladesh's Ousted PM Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death: The International Crimes Tribunal convicted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and ex-Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal of genocide and crimes against humanity for their roles in the 2024 student uprising crackdown. Security is heightened nationwide, and Bangladesh has urged India to extradite Hasina. This marks a dramatic turn in the country's post-uprising justice process.
- Tragic Bus Crash in Saudi Arabia Claims 45 Indian Pilgrims: A bus carrying Indian Hajj pilgrims crashed near Medina, killing at least 45 and injuring one survivor. Indian PM Narendra Modi expressed condolences, with embassies in Riyadh and Jeddah providing aid. The accident occurred 25 km from the city.
- Israeli Forces Violate Gaza Ceasefire: Despite a U.S.-brokered truce, Israeli strikes killed at least three Palestinians in Gaza City, including drone fire near a school sheltering displaced people. The UN Security Council is voting today on a U.S. proposal for an international stabilization force in Gaza.
- COP30 Protests Demand Urgent Climate Action: Tens of thousands marched in Belém, Brazil, outside the summit, calling for stronger global commitments amid ongoing extreme weather events.
India News
- Bihar Political Shift: Nitish Kumar to Resign and Form New NDA Government: Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to submit his resignation today, paving the way for a new NDA coalition after recent elections. He's expected to be sworn in again on November 20, with PM Modi and other leaders attending. Discussions on power-sharing among allies like Chirag Paswan's LJP are underway.
- Delhi Chokes Under Toxic Smog: Air quality hit 'Very Poor' levels (AQI 394) with thick smog blanketing the city. Authorities urge reduced outdoor activities as pollution worsens.
- India Secures U.S. LPG Import Deal: Public-sector oil firms finalized a one-year agreement for liquefied petroleum gas from the U.S. Gulf Coast, boosting energy security.
U.S. News
- Trump Pushes for Epstein Files Release: President Trump urged House Republicans to approve a discharge petition to compel the DOJ to unseal Jeffrey Epstein documents, calling for transparency. A new prosecutor is taking over related investigations amid controversy.
- Trump Open to Venezuela Talks; Hosts Saudi Crown Prince: Trump signaled willingness for dialogue with President Nicolás Maduro. Separately, he's hosting Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House this week to discuss regional ties, including potential F-35 sales linked to Israel normalization.
- Protests Over Mass Deportations in Charlotte: Demonstrations erupted after the Trump administration targeted North Carolina for a major deportation push, sparking local backlash.
- Military Strikes in Caribbean Revealed: NPR reports detail U.S. military actions in the region, based on interviews with officials, amid ongoing security operations.
Other Notable Stories
- Sports: India vs. South Africa T20 series kicks off with strong performances from Ruturaj Gaikwad and Priyank Panchal against South Africa A. World Boxing Cup finals are underway.
- Business/Tech: India to showcase advanced defense tech at Dubai Air Show 2025. U.S. rural schools grapple with resource shortages; middle-class Florida families face rising insurance costs.
- Local U.S.: Montana headlines include a former police officer's surrender in California and Whitefish Mountain Resort's Dec. 4 opening.