Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh's Iron Lady, Dies at 80; End of an Era

• Former Bangladesh PM Begum Khaleda Zia passed away at 80, marking the end of a significant political era.
• Married Ziaur Rahman at 15; he later became President. She took charge of BNP after his 1981 assassination.
• Her political career was defined by a fierce rivalry with Sheikh Hasina, stemming from historical assassinations.
• Both united against military ruler Ershad in the 1980s, then alternated as PM for nearly three decades.
• Released in August 2024 after Hasina's fall, acquitted in January 2025; son Tarique Rahman now leads BNP.

Why It Matters: Khaleda Zia's death at 80 closes a chapter in Bangladesh politics, marked by rivalry and resilience.