Date Published: February 18, 2026
Summary
This OSAC report provides a brief overview of recent events in South Asia.
Pakistan
On February 6, a suicide bomber detonated an explosive device outside Khadijatul Kubra mosque-cum-imambargah in Islamabad’s Tarlai area. Security personnel stopped the individual outside the mosque, prompting him to open fire on bystanders before detonating a suicide vest, killing 31 and wounding 168.. Islamic State Pakistan claimed responsibility for the attack. The perpetrator, a Pakistani national, had recently returned from travel to Afghanistan. Four individuals believed to have aided in the bombing have been arrested by Pakistani law enforcement[1]. Islamic State Pakistan, a Sunni based organization, claimed Shia Muslims are a “human reservoir” that provided fighters to militia groups in Syria to combat the Islamic State. This bombing occurred only three months after a car bombing outside of regional court buildings in Islamabad and marks the most devastating attack to hit Islamabad in a decade.
Private Sector Guidance: Given the recent attacks against civilians, OSAC members should maintain heightened situational awareness and exercise caution when traveling to Islamabad. Avoid large crowds, areas of congregation, government sites, religious sites, and any location with large gatherings of Pakistani government and military personnel.
Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s 13th national election took place February 12, 2026. This was the first election in Bangladesh since Sheikh Hasina won a third term in 2014. Sheikh Hasina was ousted from power in 2024 following accusations of corruption and excessive force in quelling protests related to youth unemployment and underemployment. Political tensions in Bangladesh have remained high and interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus failed to make significant improvements to the country’s issues of unemployment, local corruption, and underemployment for younger generations; the primary motivations for the youth led protests in 2024.
The severe anger and disapproval of Bangladesh leadership is seen in the political violence that has occurred leading up to the election. Fifteen political leaders and activists have been killed since the announcement of the election on December 11.[2] On January 28, members of the Bangladesh National Party (BNP) got involved in an argument with members of the Jamaat-e-Islami party at an election event which quickly turned violent. During the fight, 65 people were injured and one was killed before law enforcement was able to disperse the crowds.[3]
Private Sector Guidance: Following the February 12 election in Bangladesh, there remains a possibility that more protests will occur, especially in and around the capital Dhaka. OSAC members are advised to avoid all protests or large gatherings as violence can develop rapidly during, and large crowds draw opportunistic crime of theft and robbery.
Nepal
National elections are set to take place on March 5, seven months after anti-corruption protests swept across the country, growing violent with the torching of government buildings and deaths of 77 people in September. Protests have continued with marches and demonstrations around Kathmandu focused predominantly on unfair representation in candidates participating in the election. However, protests have ceased since the start of 2026. It is anticipated that the size and frequency of protests may grow in the days before and following the election. Identified manipulation of votes or accusations of corruption could trigger more violent protests. The interim government has deployed 30,000 soldiers throughout the country for security at voting centers to prevent election violence from escalating to the levels seen in September.[4]
Private Sector Guidance: As election day approaches, OSAC members currently in Nepal or planning travel to Nepal are advised to enroll in STEP to stay informed with up-to-date information on the security situation in Nepal. OSAC members should maintain situational awareness, monitor local news, and avoid any large gatherings or protests, as protests can quickly turn to violent. Kathmandu has a higher risk of protests and election related violence than the rest of the country. Protestors have shown a willingness to block roads, with large crowds of protesters slowing or gridlocking traffic — making transportation a challenge. OSAC members are advised to plan for alternative methods of transportation in the event of protests.
Additional Information
For more information, contact OSAC’s Asia team.
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