United News of Bangladesh

Prime Minister’s Finance and Planning Adviser Dr Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir has called for stronger cooperation from UN Women to protect and empower women and girls in Bangladesh amid the growing challenges posed by global conflicts, economic instability, energy insecurity and supply chain disruptions. During a meeting with UN Assistant Secretary-General and UN Women Deputy Executive Director Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda in New York, he said Bangladesh continues to host more than 1.2 million Rohingya refugees on humanitarian grounds placing significant economic, environmental and security pressures on the country. Titumir called for greater UN Women engagement to support the early repatriation of the Rohingya to Myanmar and to help ensure that, upon their return, women and girls can live in safety and dignity, enjoy their rights and access sustainable livelihood opportunities. He noted that the multidimensional impacts of the ongoing global crises have significantly constrained Bangladesh's fiscal space, while stricter lending conditions imposed by international financial institutions have limited access to grants and concessional financing. The adviser underscored the need for expanded UN Women support to strengthen the protection and empowerment of women and girls and reinforce inclusive social protection programmes. Highlighting the government's women-centred development agenda under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, he outlined key initiatives, including the Family Card issued in the name of the female head of household, free education for girls up to the postgraduate level, expanded reproductive and mental health services and the planned universal life-cycle-based social protection system. ASG Gumbonzvanda commended Bangladesh's progress in advancing gender equality and described the Family Card initiative as an innovative women-centred social protection programme. Recalling her visit to Cox's Bazar, she praised Bangladesh's humanitarian commitment and reaffirmed UN Women's continued partnership in promoting gender equality, women's economic empowerment, social protection, the Women, Peace and Security agenda and efforts to address the Rohingya crisis.

England and Argentina made key changes for their World Cup semifinal in Atlanta on Wednesday. England coach Thomas Tuchel called in Morgan Rogers in place of Noni Madueke on the right wing and also handed starts to Reece James and Djed Spence in defense. Ezri Konsa and Nico O'Reilly were benched. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni made just one change, picking Gio Simeone in midfield ahead of Rodrigo De Paul. The lineups England: Jordan Pickford; Reece James, John Stones, Marc Guehi, Djed Spence; Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham; Morgan Rogers, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane. Argentina: Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico; Gio Simeone, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister; Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez. A fierce rivalry The game sees England and Argentina resume one of the fiercest rivalries in international soccer. The two teams meet in Atlanta and the winner will play Spain in the final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Sunday. "I mean the two shirts are just iconic and the historic matches are iconic," Tuchel said. The World Cup rivalry between the nations dates back to 1962, but it was England's 1-0 win in the quarterfinals four years later that saw it intensify. Argentina captain Antonio Rattin, whose death was announced on Saturday, was sent off in a bad-tempered match. England went on to win the World Cup for the first, and still the only time, in its history. Twenty years on in Mexico, Diego Maradona scored the infamous "Hand of God" goal that helped Argentina to a 2-1 win in the quarterfinals on the way to becoming world champion for a second time. That game also saw Maradona score what many believe to be the greatest World Cup goal ever when he dribbled the ball from the halfway line before beating England goalkeeper Peter Shilton. "That will be forever in our hearts. It was just such a beautiful goal," Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said. "Anybody who loves football will remember that in the best way possible." England felt aggrieved again in 1998 when David Beckham was sent off for kicking out at Argentina midfielder Diego Simeone before losing the round-of-16 game on penalties. Beckham got his revenge four years later by scoring a penalty in a 1-0 win that contributed to Argentina being eliminated at the group stage. Given the heated rivalry, Tuchel has tried to manage the emotions of his players ahead of the semifinal. "If a fixture provides so many iconic moments you cannot just say it's just another football match, but as a coach we do exactly that," he said. "We don't speak about the historic events. We don't speak about the iconic moments." Route to the semifinals Neither team has had a smooth ride to the semifinals. Argentina survived scares against Cape Verde and Egypt earlier in the knockout rounds and needed extra time to beat 10-man Switzerland 3-1 in the quarterfinals. England had to rally for wins against Congo and Norway after going a goal down. It also endured a physically exhausting game played at altitude, and being down to 10 men, to beat co-host Mexico 3-2 in the round of 16. Messi vs. Kane and Bellingham The seemingly ageless Lionel Messi has been Argentina's talisman once again, scoring eight goals and also providing crucial assists. England has relied on its big hitters in Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham. Both have six goals so far, with Bellingham scoring twice in each of England's last two games.

Turkish Ambassador to Bangladesh Ramis Şen on Wednesday paid tribute to the martyrs who defended democracy during the failed coup attempt in Türkiye on July 15, 2016. The Embassy of Türkiye in Dhaka hosted an event marking the 10th Democracy and National Unity Day in Türkiye to commemorate with respect their heroes and martyrs who protected democracy during the heinous coup attempt. Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam, among others, joined the event. Bangladesh, Turkey discuss ways to boost cooperation in key sectors The Turkish ambassador said July 15 is observed as the Democracy and National Unity Day in Türkiye in remembrance of those who sacrificed their lives to defeat the failed coup attempt orchestrated by the Fethullahist Terrorist Organization (FETO). "On the 10th anniversary of this day, I pay tribute to our martyrs who defended democracy against the terrorist organisation FETO and express my gratitude to the veterans," he said in a statement.

National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam on Wednesday said ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has no legal avenue left to appeal her death sentence in a case filed for committing crimes against humanity during the July 2024 mass uprising, and the verdict must now be implemented. He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion titled “Smritigathay Julai Biplober Dinguli” (Memories of the Days of the July Revolution), organised by Jatiya Chhatra Shakti's Dhaka University unit at the Professor Muzaffar Ahmed Chowdhury Auditorium to mark the 2nd anniversary of the July uprising. Hasina will return 'only to face execution of verdict': Nahid Islam Referring to a recent interview in which Hasina said she would return to Bangladesh and surrender in December, Nahid, also opposition chief whip, said, “Whether Sheikh Hasina comes in December or any other time is something the Bangladesh government must determine. But the moment she arrives, she must be arrested from the airport and her verdict must be executed.” He noted that the government has already made it clear that there is no scope for Hasina to surrender on her own, though he accused Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed of leaving a deliberate ambiguity, a "trap", by suggesting the question of appeal would be left to the legal process. “There is no scope for appeal. The verdict against Sheikh Hasina allowed 30 days for appeal, and no one filed one on her behalf within that period. So, there is no scope for any appeal in her case now,” the NCP leader said, adding that his party wants visible progress on the trial from the government. Turning to campus issues, he called for resolving DU’s electricity crisis, waterlogging problems, and student welfare concerns, while urging a democratic environment on campus. Nahid also questioned the process for appointing the university's vice chancellor, saying DU and other autonomous universities need a transparent and participatory selection process for VCs and teachers to build research-based, democratic institutions. On the events of July 15, he demanded that a list of those involved in attacks that day in 2024 be published and that action be taken against them, along with any teachers accused of endorsing or legitimising the violence. As part of the 2nd anniversary observance, Jatiya Chhatra Shakti's DU unit also organised a drawing competition for children, with prizes distributed to the winners after the discussion.

Police recovered the body of a local Awami League leader from the bank of the Betrabati River in Jhikargacha upazila of Jashore on Wednesday afternoon. The deceased was identified as Sakhawat Hossain Saka, 55, a resident of Bausha village under Nirbashkhola Union. He served as the organising secretary of Ward No. 5 Awami League in the union. ‘Top terror’ found dead in Savar According to police and local sources, residents spotted the body around 5:30 pm near the house of Hafizur Rahman in Bausha village and informed Jhikargacha Police Station. Locals said Saka had long been suffering from various health complications following a stroke. Police rushed to the scene, prepared an inquest report and recovered the body. Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Jhikargacha Police Station Golam Kibria said the body was sent to Jashore General Hospital morgue for an autopsy. "The exact cause of death will be known after the post-mortem examination report is received," the OC said. He added that police have launched an investigation into the incident and legal proceedings are underway.

Argentina and England will reignite one of international football’s most storied rivalries when they face off in the FIFA World Cup semifinals on Thursday at 1:00 am, with a place in Monday’s final against Spain at stake. The semifinal in Atlanta brings together two of the sport’s traditional powerhouses, whose World Cup clashes over the decades have produced some of football’s most memorable and controversial moments. England coach Thomas Tuchel acknowledged the significance of the fixture, describing both national teams as iconic and their previous encounters as deeply embedded in football history. The rivalry stretches back to the 1960s, but gained greater intensity during the 1966 World Cup quarterfinal when England defeated Argentina 1-0 in a heated contest that saw Argentine captain Antonio Rattin sent off. England went on to lift its only World Cup title that year. Twenty years later, Argentina gained revenge in the 1986 World Cup quarterfinal, where Diego Maradona inspired a 2-1 victory with his infamous "Hand of God" goal and a remarkable solo effort widely regarded as one of the greatest goals in World Cup history. Argentina eventually won the tournament. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said Maradona’s famous second goal remains one of football’s most unforgettable moments and continues to inspire generations of fans. The rivalry continued in 1998 when England midfielder David Beckham was sent off during a round-of-16 defeat on penalties after an incident involving Argentina’s Diego Simeone. Beckham later found redemption by scoring the decisive penalty in England’s 1-0 group-stage victory over Argentina at the 2002 World Cup, contributing to Argentina’s early elimination. Despite the history between the teams, Tuchel said his focus has been on preparing his players for the match itself rather than dwelling on past encounters. Both teams have faced difficult paths to the last four. Defending champions Argentina survived tough knockout matches against Cape Verde and Egypt before overcoming a 10-man Switzerland side 3-1 after extra time in the quarterfinals. England also had to battle through adversity, coming from behind to defeat DR Congo and Norway before edging co-host Mexico 3-2 in an exhausting round-of-16 contest despite playing part of the match with 10 men. Argentina captain Lionel Messi has once again been central to his team's campaign, scoring eight goals and contributing key assists. England, meanwhile, has relied heavily on captain Harry Kane and midfielder Jude Bellingham. Both players have scored six goals during the tournament, with Bellingham netting twice in each of England’s previous two matches. The winner of Thursday’s semifinal will face Spain in the World Cup final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Monday.

Police on Wednesday arrested a boy on charges of raping an 11-year-old child in Sharsha upazila of Jashore district. The arrestee, identified as Tamim Iqbal,16, son of Harunur Rashid of Goga Bazar area under the upazila. He was apprehended from the staff quarters of Afil Jute Mill in Sharsha on Wednesday afternoon. According to the case statement filed by the victim’s family, the child’s mother is an employee at Afil Jute Mill. On the night of June 26, taking advantage of the mother's absence, Tamim lured the child into opening her room door. Then, Tamim  threatened and forcibly raped her. Upon learning of the ordeal, the victim's mother filed a written complaint with Sharsha Police Station, which was subsequently recorded as a rape case. Following the filing of the case, a smart police team launched an operation and arrest him from the Afil Jute Mill staff quarters in the afternoon. Shaminur Rahman, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Sharsha Police Station, said police took swift action immediately after receiving the complaint. "The accused has been arrested in a rapid drive and is being produced before the court today”  the OC added.

Congo's Ebola outbreak has surpassed 2,000 confirmed cases, with 2,011 infections and 754 deaths, according to government data released overnight, marking what authorities describe as the fastest-growing outbreak on record. Health workers at Bunia General Hospital, the region's largest medical facility, went on strike Wednesday over unpaid wages, joining other frontline workers protesting compensation despite working under difficult conditions. Staff barricaded the hospital entrance, while the World Health Organization (WHO) said more than 100 healthcare workers have been infected since the outbreak began on May 15. Ebola treatment workers strike in DR Congo over unpaid wages amid worsening outbreak The Health Ministry said 753 patients remain in isolation or hospital care, while 366 have recovered. Contact tracing remains limited, reaching only 67% of exposed individuals. WHO said about 80% of new infections are linked to unknown transmission chains, while authorities have yet to identify the outbreak's first patient. Conflict-driven displacement and mining-related movement have further complicated efforts to trace contacts. WHO emergencies chief Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, said many recent deaths occurred in communities before patients could reach health facilities. The response has also been hindered by funding shortages, attacks on health centres, insecurity, community mistrust and the absence of approved vaccines or treatments for the Bundibugyo strain. A clinical trial of two potential Ebola treatments has recently begun in Ituri province.

Bangladesh's labour market stands at a critical inflection point, with automation alone threatening up to 12.2 lakh ready-made garment (RMG) jobs and as much as 60 percent of female RMG employment at risk of displacement by 2041, according to a new policy brief by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD). The brief, titled "Is Bangladesh Ready for the Future of Work? Preparing the Labour Market for Automation, AI, and Structural Transition," was published on Wednesday in collaboration with LIRNEasia under the FutureWORKS Asia initiative, with support from Canada's International Development Research Centre (IDRC). CPD calls for tax justice-oriented fiscal framework The brief draws on a foresight study analysing 27 national and global drivers of change to map four plausible scenarios for Bangladesh's labour market by 2035. The study identifies five structural forces that persist across all scenarios: irreversible digitalisation, a reorientation of employment towards services, an education and skills system trailing demand, recurring external shocks, and institutional agility as the decisive factor determining whether outcomes are inclusive or exclusionary. The CPD noted that manufacturing employment has already plateaued at around 81 lakh despite rising output, remaining below its 2013 level, while reskilling pathways for displaced workers are largely absent. Services now absorb some 2.5 crore workers, but this expansion is largely insecure, with services employment itself contracting by about 2.4 percent between 2023 and 2024. The brief pointed to a widening skills mismatch, noting TVET enrolment remains below 20 percent at the secondary level and carries social stigma, while public spending on education and skills has fallen to just 1.3 percent of GDP. According to the report, the country's existing policy architecture, including the 8th Five-Year Plan, the National Employment Policy 2022, the Industrial Policy 2022, the Export Policy 2024–27, and the incoming government's commitments, correctly diagnoses present challenges but remains anchored in today's sectoral structures. The CPD identified four recurring shortcomings: an absence of recognition of emerging issues such as platform work and AI governance, weak integration of evidence into policy design, insufficient nuance in implementation, and the lack of a clear implementation pathway. The brief also highlighted that the costs of this transition fall unevenly, with young graduates struggling to secure productive employment and around 87 percent of employed persons with disabilities remaining in informal, low-productivity work. As Bangladesh approaches graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category, the CPD warned that the withdrawal of preferential trade access will intensify competitive pressures in export sectors, particularly RMG, accelerating the shift towards automation. The CPD recommended a set of "no-regret" policy priorities applicable across all future scenarios, including industry-led reform of the TVET system, lifelong reskilling pathways, linking industrial incentives directly to job creation, a national Labour Market Information System, portable social protection covering gig and platform workers, and gender-sensitive, disability-inclusive transition strategies. The brief concluded that rebuilding a minimum national consensus on workforce preparedness, similar to the cross-party commitment that once drove near-universal primary school enrolment and immunisation coverage, is a precondition for translating growth into decent, resilient and inclusive employment.

A high-level Saudi delegation on Wednesday met Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and expressed interest in investing up to US$1 billion in Bangladesh's ports, railways and other key infrastructure projects. The meeting took place at the Prime Minister’s Office in the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, said a press release issued by the PM’s Press Wing. The delegation was led by Saudi Arabia's Vice Minister for Transport and Logistic Services Dr Rumaih Mohammed Al-Rumaih. During the meeting, the two sides discussed Bangladesh-Saudi Arabia bilateral relations, investment opportunities and ways to expand cooperation in infrastructure development. Members of the delegation also expressed their commitment to further strengthening ties between the two countries. The Prime Minister said Bangladesh's long-standing friendly relations with Saudi Arabia are of great importance to his government. The delegation informed Tarique Rahman that Red Sea Gateway Terminal International is interested in investing $180 million to develop a Bay Terminal in Bangladesh and increasing its overall investment in the country's port sector to $1 billion. They also said Red Sea Gateway Terminal International and several other Saudi companies are keen to invest in various sectors in Bangladesh.  

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen on Wednesday said China is committed to working with the international community, including Bangladesh, to champion an equal and orderly multi-polar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization. He said China is also committed to advancing the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative and the Global Governance Initiative, and striving toward building a community with a shared future for humanity. The Ambassador made the remarks while delivering a lecture upon invitation at the Defence Services Command and Staff College of Bangladesh. Acting commandant Md Asaduzzaman, together with more than 300 officers of Bangladeshi Armed Forces and representatives of foreign militaries were present at the lecture. Ambassador Yao said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's recent visit to China has yielded fruitful results. The two countries agreed to upgrade the China-Bangladesh Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership to build a China-Bangladesh community with a shared future in the new era, he said. As President Xi Jinping said, the Ambassador said China has always attached great importance to developing relations with Bangladesh, and will always be Bangladesh’s trustworthy good friend, good neighbor and good partner. "China is willing to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with all sectors of Bangladesh, to help Bangladesh achieve better development," he said. The Ambassador said China has consistently pursued an independent foreign policy of peace. "Hegemony, expansion or spheres of influence find no place in Chinese dictionary." At the end of the lecture, Ambassador Yao had friendly interactions with the audience on issues such as Rohingya.

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo on Wednesday warned that the use of wood as fuel in brick kilns will not be allowed under any circumstances, stressing the need to reduce pollution through cleaner technologies rather than shutting down the industry. The minister made the remarks at a meeting with leaders of the Bangladesh Bricks Manufacturing Owners Association (BBMOA) at the ministry's conference room at the Bangladesh Secretariat. The meeting was organised by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to discuss the environmental impacts of the brick manufacturing industry, air quality management and measures to control pollution. Mintoo said bricks remain an essential construction material as viable alternatives are not yet fully available. "Instead of closing brick kilns, we need to focus on reducing pollution generated by the industry. Cleaner and modern technologies must be introduced to minimise environmental damage," he said. The minister also expressed concern over the use of topsoil for brick production, saying it is degrading agricultural land and reducing soil fertility. "The continuous use of topsoil in brick making is shrinking cultivable land. We need to explore alternative sources of raw materials," he added. State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam said the government would not show any leniency toward illegal brick kilns. He also stressed the need for a quality standard policy for coal used in brick kilns, noting that coal with high sulphur content significantly contributes to environmental pollution. A BBMOA delegation, led by its President Firoz Haidar Khan and Secretary General Momin Ullah Khan, along with advisers and vice-presidents from different districts, attended the meeting. The discussions placed particular emphasis on promoting environmentally sustainable technologies in brick manufacturing to curb pollution. Association leaders also presented a number of proposals and demands during the meeting. Officials said the government would consider their reasonable recommendations. The meeting was chaired by Acting Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Dr Fahmida Khan. Among others, Additional Secretary (Environment Pollution Control and Law Wing) Dr Md Saidur Rahman, Director General of the Department of Environment Dr Md Lutfor Rahman, the department's Additional Director General and other senior ministry officials were present.

A delegation of the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) met with Governor of Bangladesh Bank Md. Mostaqur Rahman at the central bank headquarters in Motijheel on Wednesday to discuss critical issues affecting textile industry and seek necessary policy support. The delegation led by BTMA President Showkat Aziz Russell, submitted a formal letter to the Governor highlighting priority areas aimed at ensuring the sustainable growth and competitiveness of the key sector. Islami Bank holds board meeting presided over by BB representative The priority demands and issues raised by the BTMA in the letter include: Access to the central bank's stimulus scheme for fully and partially closed industrial units. Prompt settlement of outstanding payments against Back-to-Back Letters of Credit (LCs). Allocation of Green Transformation Fund (GTF) facilities. Rationalization of interest rates specifically for the textile sector. Incentive support for industries situated in Special Economic Zones (SEZs). Implementation of an effective Exit Policy for distressed industrial enterprises. The BTMA delegation also included former BTMA President A Matin Chowdhury, Vice President Shafiqul Islam Sarkar, former Vice President Saleudh Zaman Khan, Director Chowdhury Mohammad Hanif Shoeb, former Director Mosharaf Hossain, and former Director Engr. Razeeb Haider. From the central bank, Deputy Governor Sarwar Hossain, Directors Harun Ar Rashid, and Liakat Ali were present at the meeting, according to a press release.

A meeting of the Board of Directors of Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC was held at the Islami Bank Tower in the capital on Wednesday. The meeting was presided over by Mohammad Zahir Hussain, executive director of Bangladesh Bank and the sole representative of the board of directors. Md Altaf Hossain, acting managing director, and Md Habibur Rahman, company secretary of the bank, also attended the session. BB eases external borrowing rules for foreign-owned industries Zahir Hussain has been temporarily overseeing the bank's board as its sole statutory representative under the central bank's authorisation to maintain the financial institution's operational stability and ensure uninterrupted services during the transition period.

July Shaheed Day, commemorating those who were killed during the July 2024 uprising, which ultimately led to the fall of Awami League government, will be observed in the country on Thursday. The day coincides with the killing of Abu Sayed, a student of Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur who was shot to death by police in Rangpur during an anti-quota protest on July 16, 2024. In recognition of the incident, the government has officially declared July 16 as “July Shaheed Day.” Special prayers will be offered at all mosques and other places of worship across the country, seeking divine blessings for the departed souls. Meanwhile, President Mohammed Shahabuddin has issued a message on the occasion, describing the July mass uprising as the outburst of people's long-standing anger against discrimination, corruption, enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, denial of voting rights, repression and fascist misrule. He recalled the contributions of all those who embraced martyrdom during the mass uprising and expressed deep respect and gratitude for their sacrifices. The President also remembered with respect those who were injured in the movement, particularly young people who continue to suffer permanent disabilities, and conveyed sympathy to the families of the martyrs. "The sacrifices of the July martyrs remind us that the people are the ultimate source of state power. Ensuring their fundamental rights, dignity, interests and justice is the state's foremost responsibility," he said. Shahabuddin urged all to work together, regardless of party, opinion or ideology, to build the Bangladesh envisioned by the martyrs – a discrimination-free, democratic, accountable, just and harmonious state. He said the spirit of July should inspire the nation to build a humane, authoritarianism-free, equitable and corruption-free state.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Wednesday announced a 151-member fully-fledged committee for its Cumilla city unit, making Udbatul Bari Abu as president and Md Yusuf Molla Tipu as general secretary. The party also announced a nine-member advisory council for the unit. The information was disclosed in a press release signed by BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi. According to the press release, Nazrul Islam VP has been made senior vice-president, while Khalilur Rahman Biplob has been appointed senior joint secretary. The 151-member committee includes multiple vice presidents, joint secretaries, organising secretaries, office secretary, publicity secretary, treasurer, subject secretaries, assistant secretaries and members. The nine-member advisory council is comprised of Begum Rabeya Chowdhury, Fazlul Haque Fazlu, Farid Uddin Ahmed, Nurul Islam, Abdul Kader Jilani, SA Bari Selim, Farhad Akhtar Md Shahriar, Dr Mosleh Uddin Ahmed and Prof Dr Nilufa Parveen.

The Bangladesh Coast Guard rescued 19 fishermen alive along with their disabled fishing boat after it drifted in the deep sea for two days following an engine failure. According to a Coast Guard press release, the fishing boat FB Ma-2, carrying 19 fishermen, left Hatiya on July 8 for fishing in the Bay of Bengal. On July 13, the boat's engine broke down, leaving it adrift at sea. After drifting for two days, the fishermen came within mobile network coverage on Wednesday morning and informed the Coast Guard about their situation. Acting on the information, the Coast Guard Station Bhasan Char and BCGS Kutubdia, which was deployed under Operation Suraksha, immediately launched a rescue operation. The rescuers recovered the disabled fishing boat along with all 19 fishermen alive from the deep sea west of Norman's Point off the Chattogram coast. The rescued fishermen were provided with primary medical treatment and necessary food. The process of handing over the fishermen and the fishing boat to the owners is currently underway. Sabbir Alam Sujan, Lieutenant Commander, said the Coast Guard would continue conducting such rescue operations in the future as part of its emergency response efforts.

HSC examinees of the 2026 batch on Wednesday submitted a written complaint to Rangpur Metropolitan Kotwali Police Station against Education minister Dr. A.N.M. Ehsanul Hoque Milon and others, alleging that HSC examinations were held despite heavy rain and waterlogging, protesters were assaulted and students were subjected to rude behaviour. A delegation of students submitted the complaint to Duty Officer Arzina Khatun at around 5:30 pm after bringing out a protest procession in the city. HSC examinees block Uttara road again The complaint was signed by Md Mahdi Hasan Anik on behalf of the HSC 2026 batch examinees. According to the complaint, police, allegedly acting on the instructions of the education minister  and some unidentified individuals, assaulted students who were staging a peaceful demonstration in front of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on July 14 and verbally abused the protesters. Speaking to reporters, Mahdi Hasan Anik said many students were allegedly assaulted by police during the protest in front of the parliament building in Dhaka and were subjected to verbal abuse. They had been in contact with students in Dhaka and would coordinate their future programmes accordingly, he added. Nazmul Kader, Officer-in-Charge of Rangpur Metropolitan Kotwali Police Station, said students had visited the police station, held discussions with police and submitted a written complaint.

House Republicans on Wednesday unveiled a 47-page, $95 billion budget resolution aimed at boosting defense spending, supporting farmers and  tightening voter registration rules that President Donald Trump signed into law last year. The proposal would supplement Pentagon funding for the Iran war, provide aid to farmers facing higher fuel and fertilizer costs as well as retaliatory tariffs, and fund election reforms requiring proof of US citizenship for voter registration. Biden to release memoir 'Promise Me, America' after US midterm elections The measure is a scaled-down version of a broader proposal after conservatives raised concerns over its cost and impact on the federal deficit. It does not include spending cuts or other measures to offset the new expenditures. Under the plan, the Armed Services Committee could draft legislation adding up to $60 billion to the deficit, followed by $13 billion for the Intelligence Committee, $12 billion for the Agriculture Committee and $10 billion for the House Administration Committee, which would oversee election law changes. House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed confidence the measure would advance, accusing Democrats of blocking efforts to strengthen election security and support the military. The Budget Committee is expected to consider the resolution on Thursday, with a full House vote planned for next week before lawmakers begin a five-week August recess. Both the House and Senate must approve the same budget resolution before Republicans can use the reconciliation process to pass the package with a simple majority, bypassing the Senate's usual 60-vote threshold. Democrats are expected to strongly oppose the measure.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday reaffirmed his government's “zero-tolerance” policy on corruption and extremism, pledging to build a people-centred, accountable state while calling for national unity to ensure that fascism, militancy and authoritarianism never return to Bangladesh. "The government is determined to curb corruption by any means," he said delivering his winding-up speech at the concluding sitting of the 2nd and budget session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad. The Prime Minister said the government is taking decisive steps to strengthen law enforcement, protect state resources and restore public confidence in state institutions. Alleging that around US$16 billion had been siphoned out of the country every year during the previous regime, he said corruption had become one of the principal obstacles to Bangladesh's development and that his government is committed to dismantling the system that enabled such practices. To strengthen public safety, Tarique Rahman said the government has planned to recruit 10,000 new police constables as part of efforts to build a professional, modern and people-oriented law enforcement force. He said the government wants to build professional law enforcement agencies to ensure a safe environment for citizens. The Prime Minister also reiterated that the government will not tolerate any form of extremism or militancy, and expressed confidence that it will receive the opposition's support in maintaining a united stance against such threats. He said announced plans to introduce a Universal Card to bring all government welfare programmes under a single platform, while outlining an ambitious roadmap to create 9 crore jobs and transform Bangladesh into a trillion-dollar economy by 2034. "We have already started implementing programmes such as the Family Card, Farmers' Card, Sports Card and honorariums for imams, muezzins and other religious leaders. Eventually, all these services will be brought under a single Universal Card," the Prime Minister said. He said the government has drawn up sector-based plans with the goal of creating employment for 9 crore people in phases. Tarique Rahman reiterated the government's commitment to shifting Bangladesh from a debt-driven economy to an investment-led one. "Our goal is to transform the economy from one driven by debt to one driven by investment, which will create wealth and employment," he said. He expressed hope that the country's economy will approach the one-trillion-dollar mark by 2034 through investment-led growth. Highlighting the government's climate agenda, the Prime Minister said a nationwide programme has been undertaken to plant 25 crore trees over the next five years through joint public participation and government initiatives. He said around 2 lakh saplings were planted across the country on Wednesday as part of a tree plantation campaign involving primary school students and educational institutions. To support the programme, Tarique Rahman said the government plans to establish 10,000 new nurseries, which are expected to generate employment for around 250,000 people. He said the government is also advancing plans in land management, port management, rural and urban infrastructure development, technology-based education, multilingual learning, internal security and a modern defence strategy. Tarique Rahman also said the government remains committed to implementing every pledge made in the BNP's 31-point reform agenda, saying the manifesto has now become "the people's mandate" following the party's election victory. He further reaffirmed the government's commitment to implementing every provision of the July Charter, signed by political parties ahead of the election. The Prime Minister also criticised the previous Awami League regime over the education sector, alleging that it had undermined academic standards by encouraging cheating and introducing automatic promotions, and said the government is working to improve education through better teacher training and other reforms. He pledged to build a people-centred, accountable and value-based state, saying his government is committed to restoring moral values, strengthening education and healthcare, and ensuring that fascism, extremism and authoritarianism never return to Bangladesh. Tarique Rahman called for national unity, saying differences of opinion in politics should never turn into enmity or vengeance. “The government wants to establish a Bangladesh where the state remains accountable to the people, the economy is inclusive, and every citizen enjoys security, dignity and opportunities,” he said. The Prime Minister said the government plans to gradually increase education spending to 5 percent of GDP over the next five years, alongside extensive teacher training programmes to improve the quality of education. He also announced that health expenditure will be raised from the current 1.2 percent of GDP to 5 percent over the same period as part of efforts to rebuild what he described as a badly damaged healthcare system. Highlighting preventive healthcare, Tarique Rahman said the government has already begun the process of appointing 1 lakh healthcare workers across the country to raise public awareness and improve primary healthcare services. He said five specialised 200-bed children's hospitals – one in each of five divisions – are expected to begin operations by September, creating 1,000 dedicated paediatric beds. Criticising the previous government's management of the power sector, the Prime Minister alleged that around Tk 3 lakh crore had been looted from the sector over one and a half decades and more than Tk 1.3 lakh crore had been paid as capacity charges to quick rental power plants without corresponding public benefits. He also said the previous government made the country excessively dependent on imported energy while neglecting strategic fuel reserves. Tarique Rahman said the current government has already increased the country's fuel reserve from less than 30 days to more than 45 days and aims to expand it to 90 days. He said the government is reviving the state-owned Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company (BAPEX), enabling it to drill new gas wells and conduct further exploration with newly imported rigs. Expressing confidence about the economy, the Prime Minister said Bangladesh has already begun recovering despite global economic uncertainties and ongoing international conflicts. He said the country's hardworking people, productive farmers, energetic youth and promising entrepreneurs will help achieve sustainable growth if corruption is controlled, fair opportunities are created, and state institutions are made accountable. Tarique Rahman also stressed the need to restore family, social and moral values, saying the erosion of values under authoritarian rule had affected not only politics and the economy but also society and culture. Calling upon lawmakers to play an active role in promoting civic responsibility, he urged citizens not to litter public places or dispose of plastic waste indiscriminately, saying such small actions could significantly improve public health and the environment. The Prime Minister described the just-concluded budget session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad as a "historic moment", saying it marked the return of a Parliament genuinely elected by the people after years of what he termed fascist rule.  He said the Parliament passed a "people-friendly" budget through lively and democratic debates among treasury and opposition lawmakers. "As a political worker and a Member of Parliament, I believe this is a historic moment. After many years, Bangladesh now has a Parliament elected by the people where their true representatives have discussed and passed a national budget," he said. Tarique Rahman said the government's objective was to present a budget that would directly benefit the people. "We wanted to prepare a life-friendly budget for the people. Various organisations that analyse the national budget have also acknowledged that this budget is largely people-friendly," he said. He, however, stressed that effective implementation will require cooperation from the public administration, private institutions and all stakeholders so that the benefits of the budget reach people's doorsteps. The Prime Minister thanked all lawmakers and the people for making the new Parliament vibrant and democratic. Referring to debates on legislation during the session, he said differences of opinion were expressed freely by both treasury and opposition members. "This is the beauty of democracy and the essence of parliamentary democracy," Tarique Rahman said. He paid tribute to those who, he said, sacrificed their lives in different movements and struggles throughout the country's history. The Prime Minister recalled the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War, the November 7, 1975 uprising, those killed in the 2013 Shapla Chattar incident, the victims of the 2009 BDR mutiny, political activists who died during the anti-autocracy movement in 1990, and those who were killed, disappeared or subjected to repression during the past one-and-a-half decades of fascist rule. He also paid tribute to those killed during the July 2024 mass uprising, saying their sacrifices will always be remembered. Tarique Rahman said the government and the opposition agreed to stand beside those affected by the July uprising and others who made sacrifices for democracy, subject to the state's financial capacity. He said the government is committed to building a welfare state based on justice, equality and democratic values where no one will face discrimination because of wealth or status and where extremism will have no place. The Prime Minister said the government has already begun implementing several welfare initiatives, including the Family Card, Farmers' Card, Sports Card and honorariums for imams, muezzins and other religious leaders, as part of its commitment to ensuring broader state support for citizens.

Bangladesh stands at a defining moment to position itself as an AI-enabled economy by capitalising on its youthful workforce, expanding digital infrastructure and ongoing policy reforms, speakers said on Wednesday, stressing that strategic investments in skills, innovation and responsible artificial intelligence could accelerate sustainable economic growth and strengthen the country's global competitiveness. They, however, warned that the rapid rise of AI also presents significant challenges, including threats to intellectual property, data privacy, human creativity and critical thinking, calling for a balanced approach that embraces technological advancement while safeguarding human capability and ethical standards. Speakers said Bangladesh should prioritise developing AI talent, integrating AI into high-impact sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education and industry, and transforming its ICT outsourcing sector into a knowledge-driven AI services industry capable of competing in global value chains. They also underscored the need for a national AI ecosystem built on research, innovation, digital infrastructure and international collaboration, saying countries that invest wisely in AI today will be better positioned to shape the future global economy. The remarks came at a discussion titled "AI Future for Bangladesh: Challenges and Prospects" held in the city's Baridhara diplomatic zone. President of Eelaia Foundation and honorary consul of Ireland in Bangladesh Masud Khan said that Bangladesh has a unique opportunity to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) as a strategic driver of sustainable economic growth, governance modernisation and regional leadership, said  Speaking at a discussion on AI, he said the country stands at a pivotal moment in its development journey following the student-led July Revolution of 2024, which has created new opportunities for inclusive governance, economic reform and technological advancement. With a young and growing population, a resilient industrial base and the government's commitment to digital transformation, Bangladesh is well-positioned to transition towards an AI-driven economy, he said.  

Bangladesh Parliament Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram on Tuesday handed over Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's message of condolence to Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani following the death of his father and former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. The condolence message was delivered during an official state condolence reception held at Lusail Emiri Palace on July 14. PM orders naming Dhaka road after ex-Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani On behalf of the government and people of Bangladesh, the Speaker conveyed heartfelt sympathy to the Emir and the bereaved members of the Qatari royal family and prayed for the eternal peace of the late former Emir.

Indian National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval on Wednesday met Brigadier General ( Retd.) Dr. AKM Shamsul Islam, Defence Adviser to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC NSAs meeting. Bangladesh, the current chair of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), is participating in the BIMSTEC National Security Advisers' meeting in New Delhi. Prime Minister’s Defence Adviser Brig. Gen. (Retd.) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam is representing Bangladesh at the meeting. The fifth BIMSTEC National Security Advisers' Meeting is being hosted by India and is scheduled to take place in New Delhi on July 16, a senior official told UNB. BIMSTEC Secretary General Indra Mani Pandey is also visiting New Delhi, India, from July 15-17. He will participate at the 5th meeting of the BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs and hold bilateral meetings. The BIMSTEC leaders at the Goa Retreat held on 16 October 2016, recognised the need for urgent measures to counter and prevent the spread of terrorism, violent extremism and radicalization, an official told UNB. The leaders expressed determination to take concrete measures to step up cooperation and coordination among law enforcement, intelligence and security organisations of the BIMSTEC Member States. The leaders in the Goa Retreat agreed to convene “Annual Meeting of National Security Chiefs of Member States on Information and Intelligence Sharing”. The BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs initiated the following subsidiary mechanisms of security cooperation: expert groups on maritime security cooperation, cyber security cooperation and space security cooperation.

The Rangamati district administration has decided to reopen Sajek Valley, one of Bangladesh's most popular tourist destinations, from Thursday after keeping it closed for eight days due to adverse weather conditions. The announcement was made through a notice issued by Deputy Commissioner Nazma Ashrafi on Wednesday afternoon. 461 stranded tourists evacuated from Sajek Valley According to the notice, the scenic tourist destination in Baghaichhari upazila will reopen from Thursday as the overall situation has improved.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday pledged to build a people-centred, accountable and value-based state, saying his government is committed to restoring moral values, strengthening education and healthcare, and ensuring that fascism, extremism and authoritarianism never return to Bangladesh. Delivering his winding-up speech at the conclusion of the 2nd and budget session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, he called for national unity, saying differences of opinion in politics should never turn into enmity or vengeance. “The government wants to establish a Bangladesh where the state remains accountable to the people, the economy is inclusive, and every citizen enjoys security, dignity and opportunities,” the Prime Minister said. Thanking lawmakers from both treasury and opposition benches for their constructive participation, he reiterated that political disagreement is natural in a parliamentary democracy but should never lead to hostility. “Before I conclude, I want to say one thing. In Parliament, as is the practice across the world, there will naturally be differences of opinion. But there must never be hostility. Instead of vengeance and retaliation, there must be fairness and justice," Tarique Rahman said. "As the Leader of the Opposition has rightly emphasised, I also want to stress that Bangladesh must never again allow fascism or authoritarianism to raise its head. Nor should our beloved motherland ever become a subservient state. On this issue, I firmly believe there is national unity between the treasury and opposition benches, and we will preserve that unity at any cost,” he added. The Prime Minister said the government plans to gradually increase education spending to 5 percent of GDP over the next five years, alongside extensive teacher training programmes to improve the quality of education. He also announced that health expenditure will be raised from the current 1.2 percent of GDP to 5 percent over the same period as part of efforts to rebuild what he described as a badly damaged healthcare system. Highlighting preventive healthcare, Tarique Rahman said the government has already begun the process of appointing 1 lakh healthcare workers across the country to raise public awareness and improve primary healthcare services. He said five specialised 200-bed children's hospitals – one in each of five divisions – are expected to begin operations by September, creating 1,000 dedicated paediatric beds. Criticising the previous government's management of the power sector, the Prime Minister alleged that around Tk 3 lakh crore had been looted from the sector over one and a half decades and more than Tk 1.3 lakh crore had been paid as capacity charges to quick rental power plants without corresponding public benefits. He also said the previous government made the country excessively dependent on imported energy while neglecting strategic fuel reserves. Tarique Rahman said the current government has already increased the country's fuel reserve from less than 30 days to more than 45 days and aims to expand it to 90 days. He said the government is reviving the state-owned Bangladesh Petroleum Exploration and Production Company (BAPEX), enabling it to drill new gas wells and conduct further exploration with newly imported rigs. Expressing confidence about the economy, the Prime Minister said Bangladesh has already begun recovering despite global economic uncertainties and ongoing international conflicts. He said the country's hardworking people, productive farmers, energetic youth and promising entrepreneurs will help achieve sustainable growth if corruption is controlled, fair opportunities are created, and state institutions are made accountable. Tarique Rahman also stressed the need to restore family, social and moral values, saying the erosion of values under authoritarian rule had affected not only politics and the economy but also society and culture. Calling upon lawmakers to play an active role in promoting civic responsibility, he urged citizens not to litter public places or dispose of plastic waste indiscriminately, saying such small actions could significantly improve public health and the environment. The Leader of the House also requested the Speaker to arrange one month's basic salary as an honorarium, following parliamentary tradition, for officials and employees of the Parliament Secretariat, the Prime Minister's Office, Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Betar and other agencies involved in conducting the budget session. Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal chaired the sitting that began at 5:00pm. Before the House concluded, Leader of Opposition Dr Shafiqur Rahman also delivered his winding-up speech. The Deputy Speaker later read out the prorogation order of the President.

Two more people died of dengue and 391 new patients were admitted to hospitals across Bangladesh in the 24 hours until 8:00am on Wednesday. With the latest fatalities, the dengue death toll has risen to 30 in the country this year, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). The two new deaths were reported in Dhaka division, it said. Dengue now a year-round public health challenge, coordinated action essential: Experts During the reporting period, 366 patients were discharged from hospitals after recovery. Since January 1, a total of 9,370 dengue patients have been admitted to hospitals across the country. Of them, 8,460 have recovered and been discharged, while 880 patients were currently undergoing treatment.

The 2nd session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, which was the budget session, was prorogued on Wednesday after 26 working days. Deputy Speaker Kayser Kamal, who was chairing the House, read out the prorogation order of the President at 6:55pm. During the session, Parliament passed a Tk 9,38,000 crore national budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year, which is the first budget under the current BNP government formed following the February 12 national election. Earlier, the budget session started on June 7 and Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury placed the budget in the House on June 11. During the session, a total of 11 bills were passed, while 11 parliamentary committees, including the Special Committee for Constitutional Amendment and nine parliamentary standing committees, were constituted. The bills include the Narcotics Control (Amendment) Bill 2026, the Invest Bangladesh Bill 2026 and the Gambling Prevention Bill, 2026. A total of 278 questions were received for the Prime Minister while he answered 35 questions. The session received 5,031 questions for different ministries while the number of the answered questions was 3474.

Opposition Leader Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Wednesday called upon the government to take stern actions against corruption and restore discipline in the financial sector, saying that no one, including lawmakers, should be spared if found involved in graft. "If this Parliament does not become a patron of corruption, I am absolutely confident that corruption will leave Bangladesh with touching its ears (entirely)," he said. The Opposition Leader said corruption cannot be eliminated if political patronage and favouritism continue. “Some blame bureaucrats, some blame businessmen and others blame politicians for corruption. I say the responsibility belongs to all of us. It is impossible to make any single sector corruption-free in isolation. It requires a coordinated effort," he said. Referring to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's earlier remarks that the government would "grab corruption by the throat," Shafiqur Rahman said the immediate priority should be to restrain corruption by "holding its hands." "We want the government to restrain corruption by grabbing its hands first. Handcuff it, and if necessary, keep a cross-shackle on its foot and lock its mouth and then finally grab its throat,” he said. “If anyone, including me or any member of this House, is involved in corruption, no one should be spared," said the opposition leader. Shafiqur also called for restoring discipline in the banking, insurance, corporate and capital market sectors, saying Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury had assured Parliament that restoring financial discipline was the government's top priority. "We want to see that commitment reflected everywhere—from this Parliament to the banking sector, insurance, corporations and the stock market," he said.. Expressing deep sorrow over the deaths caused by recent floods in four divisions, particularly in Chattogram, the opposition leader urged the Prime Minister and the finance minister to consider providing special financial assistance to the families of those killed. He thanked the government for allocating increased funds for the education and health sectors in the national budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year. The Jamaat-e-Islami chief also proposed appointing designated religious teachers at the primary school level, saying religious education should begin from the early stages of schooling. He called for ensuring equitable allocation of development funds for opposition lawmakers. "We want a balanced distribution of funds," he said, urging the government to ensure fairness in allocating resources regardless of party affiliation. Addressing the Speaker, Shafiqur expressed hope that he would continue to conduct the House firmly and impartially while ensuring strict adherence to the Rules of Procedure. He recalled that on the first day of the Parliament, opposition members had called for breaking away from the negative political culture of the past. "We said we would criticise the government, but within the grammar of Parliament. Alhamdulillah, I am pleased and partially convinced that there has been considerable improvement, though some negative practices still remain. I hope those will also disappear," he said. The opposition leader also thanked the Prime Minister for announcing that the July Memorial Museum would be opened on August 5 and urged the government to ensure that the significance of the July movement is preserved prominently in the pages of the nation's history.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday announced plans to introduce a Universal Card to bring all government welfare programmes under a single platform, while outlining an ambitious roadmap to create 9 crore jobs and transform Bangladesh into a trillion-dollar economy by 2034. Delivering his winding-up speech at the concluding sitting of the second and budget session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, he also reaffirmed his government's zero-tolerance policy on corruption and extremism, saying decisive steps are being taken to build professional law enforcement agencies, strengthen public safety and protect state resources. "We have already started implementing programmes such as the Family Card, Farmers' Card, Sports Card and honorariums for imams, muezzins and other religious leaders. Eventually, all these services will be brought under a single Universal Card," the Prime Minister told Parliament. He said welfare benefits should not be viewed as charity from the state but as the rightful entitlement of citizens. "These are not acts of compassion by the state. These are the state's responsibilities towards its citizens," he said. Tarique Rahman said the government's priority is not only to provide financial assistance for disadvantaged groups but also to create sustainable employment opportunities for the country's workforce. He said the government has drawn up sector-based plans with the goal of creating employment for 9 crore people in phases. As part of that strategy, the Prime Minister said, the government plans to create 10 lakh jobs in the information technology sector and another 10 lakh jobs through the blue economy, including marine resource development and eco-tourism. He said language and skills training programmes have also been launched to improve overseas employment opportunities, while demand-driven training and career centres are being established in higher educational institutions. Tarique Rahman reiterated the government's commitment to shifting Bangladesh from a debt-driven economy to an investment-led one. "Our goal is to transform the economy from one driven by debt to one driven by investment, which will create wealth and employment," he said. He expressed hope that the country's economy will approach the one-trillion-dollar mark by 2034 through investment-led growth. 25 crore trees, 10,000 nurseries Highlighting the government's climate agenda, the Prime Minister said a nationwide programme has been undertaken to plant 25 crore trees over the next five years through joint public participation and government initiatives. He said around 2 lakh saplings were planted across the country on Wednesday as part of a tree plantation campaign involving primary school students and educational institutions. To support the programme, Tarique Rahman said the government plans to establish 10,000 new nurseries, which are expected to generate employment for around 250,000 people. He said the government is also advancing plans in land management, port management, rural and urban infrastructure development, technology-based education, multilingual learning, internal security and a modern defence strategy. Govt won't tolerate corruption, extremism The Prime Minister reaffirmed his government's zero-tolerance policy on corruption and extremism. He said the government wants to build professional law enforcement agencies to ensure a safe environment for citizens. Alleging that about US$16 billion had been siphoned out of the country annually during the previous regime, Tarique Rahman said corruption was one of the main reasons behind many of the country's development problems. "The government is determined to curb corruption by any means necessary," he said. To enhance public safety, he said the government has taken a plan to recruit 10,000 new police constables as part of efforts to build a professional law enforcement force. The Prime Minister also reiterated that the government will not tolerate any form of extremism or militancy, and expressed confidence that it will receive the opposition's support in maintaining a united stance against such threats. Commitment to election pledges Tarique Rahman also said the government remains committed to implementing every pledge made in the BNP's 31-point reform agenda, saying the manifesto has now become "the people's mandate" following the party's election victory. He further reaffirmed the government's commitment to implementing every provision of the July Charter, signed by political parties ahead of the election. The Prime Minister also criticised the previous Awami League regime over the education sector, alleging that it had undermined academic standards by encouraging cheating and introducing automatic promotions, and said the government is working to improve education through better teacher training and other reforms.

Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday said the government has undertaken various initiatives to transform the capital into a clean, planned and livable city. He made the remarks while addressing a seminar titled "Urban Waste Management is the Responsibility of All of Us" as the chief guest at the auditorium of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC). Jamiruddin Sircar’s contributions to politics, state to be remembered with respect: Fakhrul Speaking at the seminar, the minister said waste management has long remained a major challenge for Dhaka due to the city's growing population as the country's principal economic hub. He said the government's or city corporations' efforts alone would not be enough to ensure a clean city, stressing the need for active public participation and responsible civic behaviour. "If every citizen performs their responsibilities from their respective positions, the desired improvement in waste management can be achieved," he said. The minister said Dhaka reflects a blend of urban and rural cultures and underscored the importance of strengthening civic discipline and public awareness to develop a modern urban culture. Referring to AI-based traffic management, he said people are capable of following rules when effective monitoring and awareness measures are in place. "As compliance with traffic rules is increasing through proper supervision and awareness, similar positive changes can also be achieved in waste management," he said. The government is implementing various initiatives in line with the Prime Minister's directives to make waste management more modern, effective and citizen-friendly, saying their success would require coordinated efforts by the government, city corporations and the public, he said. Besides, State Minister Mir Shahe Alam, who was present at the seminar, said city corporations should be transformed into self-reliant and fully functional institutions to overcome long-standing institutional weaknesses and coordination gaps in urban management. Such a move would help bring RAJUK, WASA, power utilities, traffic police and other agencies involved in urban development under a unified legal and coordination framework, he said. State Minister for Youth and Sports, Md Aminul Haque said tackling the challenge of urban waste management requires collective efforts rather than relying solely on the government. He called for turning small initiatives at the individual and family levels into a broader social movement. Meanwhile, DNCC Administrator Md Shafiqul Islam Khan said the city corporation has been carrying out its public service activities with the support of responsible and conscious citizens. He said the DNCC would work in coordination with other agencies to prevent waterlogging caused by heavy rainfall in the future. The administrator also said cooperation from residents would be essential to free the 29 canals under the DNCC from encroachment and carry out excavation and rehabilitation works to ensure smooth water flow. He pledged to work with local residents to remove encroachments from Mirpur canals and urged citizens to dispose of waste only at designated places instead of dumping it indiscriminately. He also stressed the need for improved drainage infrastructure and keeping drains free from waste to eliminate urban waterlogging.

A tribunal in Tangail on Wednesday sentenced a man to death for killing a schoolgirl after abduction in 2023. Tangail Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunal Judge ANM Elias handed down the judgment. The condemned convict is Sabbir Mia, son of Anwar Hossain of Dariapur village in Sakhipur upazila of the district. Lone accused in child rape case sentenced to death in Chattogram The tribunal also fined him Tk 30,000. Besides, the tribunal also sentenced him to 15 years in jail and fined Tk 20,000 for abducting the girl while the court sentenced him life imprisonment and fined Tk 30,000 for confining the girl to realise ransom. The same tribunal also fined the convict to five years in jail and fined Tk 10,000 for hiding the body of the girl through setting fire after pouring kerosene. According to the prosecution, the convict abducted Samia Akter, 9, a class III student of Dariapur Uttar Government Primary School and daughter of Ranju Mia of the village and took her to a forest while she was returning to her home from tuition on September 6, 2023. Later, the convict strangulated the girl and covered the body of Samia to a drain adjacent to a paddy field. In the meantime, he demanded Tk 5 lakh as ransom from Samia’s father after sending a message through Imo. On September 7, the victim's father filed a case with Sakhipur Police Station. Later, police recovered the body of Samia from the drain on September 8, 2023. Police arrested Sabbir on September 28, 2023 with the help of technology and he later gave a confessional statement before the court under section 164. On February 11, 2024, police submitted chargesheet against Sabbir.

Parliament on Wednesday passed the Invest Bangladesh Bill, 2026, despite strong objections from the opposition, which criticised the government for introducing and passing the legislation on the same day without referring it to a parliamentary committee. The bill, moved by Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, also the minister in charge of the Prime Minister's Office in Parliament, was passed by a voice vote after a lengthy procedural debate, with opposition MPs repeatedly protesting what they described as a violation of lawmakers' right to scrutinise legislation. The new law abolishes the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), the Bangladesh Public Private Partnership Authority (PPP Authority) and the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), replacing them with a single statutory body named Investment Bangladesh Authority. As soon as the minister sought leave to introduce the bill, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami MP Muhammad Nazibur Rahman objected, saying the proposed legislation repeals six existing laws and dissolves multiple authorities, making it too significant to be passed without proper examination. He argued that although the Cabinet approved the bill on July 9, MPs were not provided with the mandatory documents within the stipulated notice period. "We have not received any justification as to why the required documents were not supplied despite six days having passed since Cabinet approval," he said. Nazibur also questioned why the government was in such haste to pass the legislation without sending it to the relevant parliamentary standing committee. "Is there any vested interest behind this urgency?" he asked while formally proposing that the bill be referred to the committee for detailed scrutiny. Responding to the criticism, Salahuddin said the practice of referring bills to standing committees began only from the 7th Parliament and stressed that the proposed law was not an entirely new piece of legislation. He said the government was merely consolidating existing institutions created under different laws because their functions had increasingly overlapped. "We are not creating a new concept. Different authorities with similar responsibilities have created overlapping functions, and investors are not receiving services through a genuine one window system. We are simply merging these authorities into one," he told Parliament. The minister acknowledged that the government would have preferred to place the bill before Parliament earlier but said Wednesday was the final sitting of the session. "If there had been any complex legal issue in the bill, I myself would have proposed sending it to the standing committee," he said, urging the opposition to support the legislation. Nazibur, however, insisted that lawmakers were being deprived of their constitutional responsibility to properly examine a legislation. "We are lawmakers. Our duty is to make laws after proper scrutiny. If we are deprived of that opportunity, our fundamental right as legislators is being undermined," he said. The Jamaat MP warned that repeatedly passing bills in haste without allowing sufficient time for review will establish an unhealthy parliamentary precedent. National Citizen Party MP Md Abul Hasnat, better known as Hasnat Abdullah, also raised concerns, saying several clauses required amendments and questioning how MPs could propose changes after the bill was rushed through. In reply, Salahuddin said any proposed amendments could be raised orally because procedural requirements had already been waived. He assured Parliament that reasonable amendments suggested by lawmakers will be considered and, if necessary, incorporated in a future parliamentary session. Leader of the Opposition Dr Shafiqur Rahman also criticised the rushed legislative process, saying the issue was not merely about parliamentary privilege but also about the responsibility of legislators. He recalled that several bills had been hurriedly passed during the first session because of time constraints and that the opposition had then hoped such practices would not continue. "In trying to accommodate one matter in haste, both our rights and responsibilities are being compromised. This will not create a good precedent for Parliament," Shafiqur Rahman said. In reply, Salahuddin reiterated that the legislation primarily merged existing legal frameworks rather than introducing a completely new regime and publicly pledged to consider justified amendments in future. Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal welcomed the minister's assurance and expressed hope that the commitment made on the floor of Parliament will be honoured. Despite the protests, the Deputy Speaker declared that the "yes" had prevailed and allowed the bill to be taken up immediately for consideration before it was passed by voice vote. Under the new law, the Investment Bangladesh Authority will serve as the country's single investment promotion agency responsible for attracting domestic and foreign investment, coordinating approvals across government agencies, approving investment incentives and managing industrial zones and public private partnership projects. The law also provides for a unified digital platform integrating all investment-related approvals, licences and permits, making participation mandatory for all government agencies. Existing one-stop service portals will eventually be merged into the new platform. The authority will be empowered to recommend visas and work permits for foreign investors and experts, facilitate investment agreements, oversee industrial land allocation and advise the government on the strategic use or sale of unused state-owned industrial assets. The Prime Minister, or a nominee, will chair the governing board of the new authority, while ministers responsible for finance, energy, foreign affairs, land, industries, commerce and law will serve as members alongside senior officials and four private sector representatives, including two women. The legislation also repeals the Bangladesh Economic Zones Act, 2010, the Bangladesh Public Private Partnership Act, 2015, the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority Act, 2016 and the One Stop Service Act, 2018, transferring all assets, liabilities, contracts and personnel of the dissolved authorities to the new body.

The Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) on Wednesday held a stakeholder consultation meeting aimed at making the country's Initial Public Offering (IPO) process more transparent, accountable, efficient and internationally standard-compliant. The meeting was held at the BSEC head office in Agargaon, chaired by BSEC Chairman Masud Khan, according to a press release issued by the commission. BSEC Commissioners Tanwir Habib Rahman, Nahid Mahtab, and Nafeez Al Tarik, along with senior officials of the commission, attended the meeting. BSEC clears maiden IQIO, greenlights intraday trading in reform push The meeting held elaborate discussions on financial statement requirements for IPO applications under the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (Public Offer of Equity Securities) Rules, 2025, along with the roles and responsibilities of auditors, issue managers and issuers, and ways to make the IPO process more effective and investor-friendly. Discussions also covered IPO pricing, listing of public interest entities, direct listing and rights issues, among other matters. Representatives of various organisations participating in the discussion presented their assessments and recommendations on the existing challenges, practical experiences and potential reform areas in the IPO process. The commission assured that it would consider the stakeholders' opinions with due importance and take necessary policy support and legal reform measures accordingly. Representatives from the Financial Reporting Council (FRC), the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB), the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE), the Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE), the DSE Brokers Association of Bangladesh (DBA), the Bangladesh Association of Publicly Listed Companies (BAPLC), the Bangladesh Merchant Bankers Association (BMBA), various merchant banks, issue managers and other stakeholders also joined the discussion. BSEC's executive director, directors and other senior officials were also present at the meeting.

Bangladesh Bank has handed the management of Al-Arafah Islami bank back to its former owners.  As per the central bank directive, 14 new entrepreneur-shareholders were inducted into the bank's board of directors on Wednesday (July 15). Bangladesh Bank Executive Director and Spokesperson Arif Hossain Khan confirmed the information to UNB. Since August 2024, the bank had been functioning under a five-member body of independent directors. With the inclusion of these 14 individuals, the total number of directors now stands at 19. During the Awami League regime, Abdus Samad Labu, brother of S. Alam served as the chairman of Al-Arafah Islami bank. The central bank spokesperson stated that among the 16 banks whose boards were previously dissolved by the BB, Al-Arafah Bank’s financial condition has shown improvement, prompting the reinstatement of its shareholder-directors. He noted that while the entrepreneurs of other dissolved banks could not be traced, the situation was different for Al-Arafah Bank, which is why it has been handed back to them. Among the 14 new board members, three are from the KDS Group. They are KDS Group Chairman Khalilur Rahman, KDS Garments representative director Mahbub Ahmed, and KDS Textile representative director Farid Uddin Ahmed. The other directors included in the board are the bank’s former chairman Bodiur Rahman, Enayet Ullah (who contested the last election from Dhaka-7 representing Jamaat), Selim Rahman, Ahamedul Haque, Rafiqul Islam, Imadur Rahman, Nazmul Ahsan Khaled, Anwar Hossain, Abdus Salam, Liakat Ali Chowdhury, and Sharif Uddin Taslim, representing KY Steel Mills. Following the fall of the Awami League regime, the central bank dissolved the board of Al-Arafah Islami Bank and appointed Khaja Shahriar as an independent director and chairman of the board. The other independent directors on the board—Md. Shahin Ul Islam, Md. Abdul Wadud, M. Abu Yusuf, and Mohammad Ashraful Hasan—will also remain on the new board. Moving forward, all members of the newly formed board will collectively appoint a new chairman.

Saudi Arabia has expressed a strong interest in expanding its investment footprint in Bangladesh, with a particular focus on strengthening cooperation in the transport, logistics, and maritime sectors. The interest was conveyed during a meeting between a Saudi delegation, led by Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistics Dr. Rumaih Mohammed Al-Rumaih, and Bangladeshi officials at Biniyog Bhaban in the capital on Wednesday. Saudi envoy meets PM, hands over Crown Prince's letter Ashik Chowdhury, Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and CEO of the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Authority, led the Bangladesh side during the focused discussion on transport, logistics, and infrastructure cooperation. Officials from the PPPA, BIDA, and the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) also joined the meeting. During the meeting, the Saudi minister lauded Bangladesh’s focus on privatisation and business facilitation, noting that it closely aligns with Saudi Arabia’s own strategic goals.

The death toll from floods and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall in seven districts of the country has risen to 57 with three more deaths in the last 24 hours till Wednesday, according to the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief. In an update on Wednesday, it said 111 shelters have been opened in the affected areas, where 4,079 people are currently staying. State Minister Aninda Islam pledges equal support for all flood victims in Bandarban According to the ministry, seven districts – Khagrachhari, Rangamati, Bandarban, Cox's Bazar, Chattogram, Moulvibazar and Habiganj – remain affected by floods. A total of 57 upazilas, 334 unions and nine municipalities in these districts have been inundated. Of the fatalities, 32 were recorded in Cox's Bazar, including 19 local residents and 13 Rohingyas, 15 in Chattogram, six in Bandarban, three in Rangamati and one was reported in Moulvibazar.

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke on Wednesday said the United Kingdom (UK) remains committed to working with Bangladesh to help communities prepare for, respond to and recover from natural disasters, while strengthening long-term climate resilience. The UK government is providing £355,000 or approximately Tk 5.7 crore in life-saving humanitarian assistance to support more than 55,000 people affected by flooding in Southeast and Northeast Bangladesh. British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke said the UK stands with the people of Bangladesh affected by these devastating floods. "This humanitarian assistance will help provide vital support to more than 55,000 people across some of the worst affected areas in the southeast and northeast Bangladesh," she said. Managed by Start Network and delivered through national and local NGOs, the UK contribution will provide affected communities with cash assistance, food, and hygiene supplies across six of the worst affected districts: Cox’s Bazar, Bandarban, Rangamati, Chittagong, Khagrachari and Moulvibazar. This support builds on £245,000 (approximately Tk 3.9 crore) in emergency funding released in May 2026 for communities affected by the earlier flooding in the Sylhet region. It brings the UK government’s total disaster response support in Bangladesh this year to over £600,000 (approximately Tk 9.6 crore, alongside ongoing UK support to strengthen Bangladesh’s climate resilience, said the British High Commission in Dhaka. The UK is also supporting flood-affected communities through its contributions to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies’ Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF). Through DREF, a total of £438,348 (approximately Tk 7.2 crore) is being provided to assist people affected by flooding across 10 of the worst-affected districts in Northeast and Southeast Bangladesh. Additionally, through the UK-Bangladesh hydro-met partnership, the UK has supported the integration of UK Met Office data into national forecasting systems, improving the accuracy and lead time of flood warnings across Bangladesh. BBCCI delegation meets minister Rabiul in London to boost Bangladesh-UK trade ties This has enabled earlier warnings and faster emergency action ahead of recent flash flooding, with plans to expand this work to ensure warnings reach the communities most at risk.

Fast bowler Nahid Rana took 4 for 26 as Bangladesh restricted Zimbabwe to 170 for 6 in the opening T20I at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo on Wednesday. After Bangladesh captain Towhid Hridoy won the toss and chose to field, Zimbabwe reached 54 for 1 in the powerplay. Brian Bennett led the scoring with 44 from 30 balls, while Tadiwanashe Marumani made 14 from 9 deliveries. Nahid struck in the fourth over when Marumani was caught at deep square leg attempting a flick. Zimbabwe were 87 for 2 at the halfway stage with Bennett and Sikandar Raza at the crease. Bennett fell for 44 when he slashed a short, wide delivery from Nahid to deep backward point in the 11th over.  

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday described the just-concluded budget session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad as a "historic moment", saying it marked the return of a Parliament genuinely elected by the people after years of what he termed fascist rule. Delivering the concluding speech of the budget session – second of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, he said the Parliament passed a "people-friendly" budget through lively and democratic debates among treasury and opposition lawmakers. "As a political worker and a Member of Parliament, I believe this is a historic moment. After many years, Bangladesh now has a Parliament elected by the people where their true representatives have discussed and passed a national budget," the Prime Minister said. He said the government's objective was to present a budget that would directly benefit the people. "We wanted to prepare a life-friendly budget for the people. Various organisations that analyse the national budget have also acknowledged that this budget is largely people-friendly," Tarique Rahman said. He, however, stressed that effective implementation will require cooperation from the public administration, private institutions and all stakeholders so that the benefits of the budget reach people's doorsteps. The Prime Minister thanked all lawmakers and the people for making the new Parliament vibrant and democratic. Referring to debates on legislation during the session, he said differences of opinion were expressed freely by both treasury and opposition members. "This is the beauty of democracy and the essence of parliamentary democracy," Tarique Rahman said. He paid tribute to those who, he said, sacrificed their lives in different movements and struggles throughout the country's history. The Prime Minister recalled the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War, the November 7, 1975 uprising, those killed in the 2013 Shapla Chattar incident, the victims of the 2009 BDR mutiny, political activists who died during the anti-autocracy movement in 1990, and those who were killed, disappeared or subjected to repression during the past one-and-a-half decades of fascist rule. He also paid tribute to those killed during the July 2024 mass uprising, saying their sacrifices will always be remembered. Tarique Rahman said the government and the opposition agreed to stand beside those affected by the July uprising and others who made sacrifices for democracy, subject to the state's financial capacity. He said the government is committed to building a welfare state based on justice, equality and democratic values where no one will face discrimination because of wealth or status and where extremism will have no place. The Prime Minister said the government has already begun implementing several welfare initiatives, including the Family Card, Farmers' Card, Sports Card and honorariums for imams, muezzins and other religious leaders, as part of its commitment to ensuring broader state support for citizens. Parliament went into its maiden session on March 12 this year with President's address. The second session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, which also served as the budget session for the 2026-27 fiscal year, began on June 7. On June 30, Parliament passed a Tk 938,000 crore national budget for FY27, setting targets of 6.5 percent economic growth and reducing inflation to 7.5 percent.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has directed the authorities concerned to take steps to name a suitable road in the capital after former Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who died on July 12. Taking part in a discussion on a proposal moved by Leader of the Opposition Dr Shafiqur Rahman in Parliament seeking the naming of a road in Dhaka after the late Qatari leader, the Prime Minister said he has already instructed the ministry in this regard. "I have already verbally instructed the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development to identify a suitable road through the Dhaka city corporations and name it after the late Emir," he said, thanking the opposition leader for raising the proposal. Bangladesh observed a half-day state mourning on Wednesday following the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, with the national flag kept at half-mast. Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad also travelled to Doha to convey Bangladesh's condolences on the death of the former Qatari Emir. Paying tribute to the former Qatari Emir, the Prime Minister said Bangladesh is honouring both the late leader and the people of Qatar. "Qatar has supported Bangladesh in various ways in our development journey and continues to do so," he said. He noted that Qatar has provided employment opportunities for lakhs of Bangladeshis, making a significant contribution to the country's economy. Tarique Rahman also recalled Qatar's support for Bangladeshi expatriates during regional tensions in the Middle East. "Even when Qatar itself faced challenges during the tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, it looked after our expatriate workers like its own citizens and ensured their safety," he said. "In consideration of all these contributions, the government has declared state mourning for late Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and the national flag was kept at half-mast," he added. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani died on July 12 at the age of 74. He served as Emir of Qatar from 1995 to 2013 and is widely regarded as one of the principal architects of the country's transformation into a modern state.

Astronomers have identified a faint giant exoplanet orbiting the young star Beta Pictoris after it remained undetected for more than a decade, marking the dimmest planet ever directly imaged from Earth. The discovery was made independently by two research teams within days of each other late last year using different telescopes, according to findings published Wednesday in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. One team, led by scientists from Scotland and Germany, detected the planet using the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope in Chile. Researchers later examined archival observations and confirmed that the planet had been hidden in earlier data, obscured by the brightness of its host star and two previously known companion planets. “It was very much playing hide-and-seek for 11 years,” said Markus Bonse of the European Southern Observatory, who co-led the research. A separate team led by researchers from the University of California, San Diego, made the same discovery using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope. Scientists said only two observations with the space telescope were needed to identify the elusive world. Both teams had been studying one of Beta Pictoris’ already known planets when they independently spotted the much fainter object, estimated to be around 100 times dimmer and located farther from the star. Researchers intentionally kept their work separate to avoid influencing each other's findings. The newly discovered planet is slightly larger than Jupiter and takes about 91 years to complete one orbit around its star, comparable to Uranus’ orbital period around the Sun. Scientists believe the planet resembles a much younger version of Jupiter because it formed in a planetary system that is only about 20 million years old, compared with the Sun’s age of roughly 4.5 billion years. According to researcher Aidan Gibbs, the system offers a rare opportunity to study the early stages of planetary evolution, when giant planets have already formed but smaller rocky planets may still be developing. Beta Pictoris is located about 63 light-years from Earth in the southern constellation Pictor. NASA says fewer than 100 of the more than 6,000 confirmed exoplanets have been detected through direct imaging, with most discovered using indirect methods such as observing the slight dimming of a star when a planet passes in front of it. Researchers hope the newly identified planet will provide fresh insights into how young planetary systems evolve over time.

The United States on Wednesday launched airstrikes on Iran's Greater Tunb Island in the Strait of Hormuz, targeting military facilities that Washington said were being used to threaten commercial shipping in one of the world's most critical energy corridors. The US military's Central Command (CENTCOM) said the 90-minute operation targeted Iranian defence positions and missile sites on the island, which has been under Iranian control since 1971 after being seized from what later became the United Arab Emirates. According to CENTCOM, the strikes were intended to further reduce Iran's ability to launch attacks on commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. "The strikes further degraded Iran's ability to attack commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz," the command said in a statement. The latest operation comes as the United States has reinstated a naval blockade on Iran and expanded its military campaign in response to Tehran's attacks on vessels operating in the strategic waterway. The renewed confrontation has effectively derailed a temporary agreement reached last month that had paused hostilities for 60 days to allow negotiations over Iran's nuclear programme and other disputes. Tensions have intensified in recent days as both countries exchanged military strikes across the region, raising fears that the conflict could escalate into a broader regional war. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned earlier Wednesday that it could halt all oil and gas exports from the Middle East in response to the renewed US blockade. "The export of oil and gas from the region will be either for everyone or for no one," the IRGC said. The Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the confrontation. The narrow waterway handles roughly one-fifth of the world's seaborne oil and natural gas trade, making any disruption a major concern for global energy markets. Washington first imposed the naval blockade on Iran in April before lifting it last month following the interim agreement. However, negotiations later stalled amid renewed clashes over shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting the United States to restore the blockade and intensify its military operations against Iranian targets.

Local journalist leaders have strongly condemned and protested a gun attack targeting a group of journalists in Khulna city, demanding the immediate arrest and exemplary punishment of those responsible. The incident took place around 12:30am on Wednesday in front of a tea stall on the western side of the United Nations Shishu Park in the city. Witnesses said several journalists were gossiping at the spot after finishing their office work when two youths arrived on a motorcycle and opened fire at them. The bullet missed its intended target and struck the leg of a chair. Rakibul Islam Moti, Khulna correspondent of SA TV and a permanent member of the press club, said six journalists were at the tea stall when the attackers suddenly fired at them. On information, police visited the spot. Syed Rana Kabir, senior staff reporter of the Daily Khulnanchal, said a sprinter hit Awal Sheikh, Khulna Bureau chief of The Business Standard and a press club member, in the chest, causing minor injuries. He is now out of danger. Those present during the attack also included former Member Secretary of the Khulna Press Club and Khulna Bureau Chief of Star News Rafiul Islam Tutul. In separate statements, leaders of the Khulna Press Club, Khulna Metropolitan Journalists’ Association and Khulna District Journalists’ Association demanded a fair and impartial investigation to identify those involved in the attack and bring them to justice. They also urged the authorities to ensure a safe and secure environment for journalists to carry out their professional duties without fear. Officer-in-Charge of Khulna Sadar Police Station Md Shafiqul Islam said police recovered parts of a bullet from the scene. He said police were investigating the motive behind the shooting.  

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Wednesday said there would be no scope for former prime minister Sheikh Hasina to surrender  as she would be arrested immediately upon return and the court verdict against her would be executed in accordance with the law. He said this at a discussion titled "The Day that Changed the Course of the Mass Uprising" at the TSC Auditorium of Dhaka University as the chief guest. The programme was organised by Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal as part of its month-long observance marking the second anniversary of the July-August mass uprising. “We have always wanted her return through legal means. During the interim government’s tenure, a letter was sent(to Indian government) under the extradition treaty and we have also sent reminders. We want her brought back to Bangladesh so that the verdict against her can be executed," he added. Any extradition is a legal issue; it'll be dealt with accordingly, India says about Hasina The minister said he had made the government's position clear in Parliament a day earlier. Salahuddin Ahmed also said efforts were underway to bring back other former ministers, MPs and government officials who had supported the previous Awami League government and are now staying abroad. "We have issued Interpol arrest warrants against those who took shelter in different countries. Benazir Ahmed has already been arrested under that process. We hope to bring him back soon and face trial," he said. He said the government wanted to ensure justice for everyone. "Those involved in genocide and those who attacked freedom-loving people of Bangladesh like the Pakistani occupation forces also have the right to due process, and we will bring them to justice," he added. Addressing students, Salahuddin said Dhaka University historically led democratic movements beginning with the Language Movement of 1952 and continuing through the struggle for independence and democratic rights. "The students of DU have always been the driving force behind Bangladesh's democratic struggles. Across the world, students have played decisive roles in shaping history and bringing political change," he said. He paid tribute to Abu Sayeed, Wasim Akram, Mugdha and others who were killed during the July movement, describing the uprising as a chapter written in blood. Salahuddin Ahmed said preserving democracy would be more difficult than achieving it. "We do not want democracy to be suppressed by any authoritarian force again. That is why we want constitutional and state reforms," he said. He said BNP had earlier proposed its 31-point state reform outline which was later reflected in its election manifesto. He said the government wanted the political future of the Awami League to be determined through due judicial process rather than by executive order. "We do not believe in banning a political party through administrative orders. It must go through judicial and legal processes," he said. Drawing a comparison with the post-World War II Nuremberg Trials, Salahuddin said political organisations responsible for atrocities could also face legal consequences. Salahuddin Ahmed urged political forces not to use the spirit of July for partisan purposes. "July is our shared spirit and our collective strength. No single group can claim exclusive ownership of its achievements. The credit belongs to the people of Bangladesh who fought against fascism," he said. He stressed the importance of maintaining the unity forged during the anti-authoritarian movement to prevent the return of authoritarianism. BNP Joint Secretary General Habib Un Nabi Khan Sohel and Chief Whip of Parliament Nurul Islam Moni and BNP Student Affairs Secretary Rakibul Islam Bakul attended the programme as special guests. Leaders of various student organisations were also present at the event.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday said the government has taken a series of infrastructure, digitalisation and equipment modernisation initiatives to enhance the capacity and efficiency of Chittagong Port, expressing confidence that the planned Bay Terminal will significantly boost the country's trade and economy. He also said anyone found responsible for corruption involving the country's key seaport will face legal action, regardless of when the alleged offences took place. "The capacity of Chittagong Sea Port is increasing gradually. The Chittagong Port Authority has been managing the port by overcoming various global and domestic challenges," the Prime Minister said while responding to a starred question from treasury bench MP Sarwar Jamal Nizam (Chattogram-13) during the question-answer session in Parliament. Despite the global recession and the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, Chittagong Port remains operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week (24/7), ensuring uninterrupted services. As a result, cargo handling increased from 45.396 million tonnes in 2010 to 138.152 million tonnes in 2025, while container handling rose from 1.343 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) to 3.409 million TEUs over the same period, Tarique Rahman said. "Compared with the previous year, container, cargo and ship handling grew by 4.07 percent, 11.43 percent and 10.5 percent, respectively, in 2025," he added. The Prime Minister outlined several measures taken to enhance the port's capacity. These include the construction and operation of the Patenga Container Terminal, development of the Laldia Container Terminal, and regular capital and maintenance dredging to maintain navigability, he said. Tarique Rahman also highlighted ongoing digitalisation initiatives, including the introduction of the online Port Community System, e-delivery orders, e-payment services, e-gate passes, CPA SKY and the Port Single Window as part of efforts to establish a paperless port. The government has also initiated steps to automate overall port operations and procure new cargo and container handling equipment to address equipment shortages during the 2025-26 fiscal year, he added. Replying to a supplementary question from the same MP on the Bay Terminal project, the Prime Minister said he did not have all the project details with him at that moment but will provide them if a formal notice is submitted. However, he reaffirmed the government's commitment to implementing the Bay Terminal project, saying it will bring substantial benefits to the national economy. "The Bay Terminal will allow large mother vessels to berth directly at Chattogram Port," he said. At present, many large vessels cannot enter the port because of navigational limitations, Tarique Rahman noted. He said direct access for larger vessels will significantly reduce transhipment costs, accelerate import and export activities, and strengthen the country's overall economy. Responding to another supplementary question from MP Mohammad Kamal Hossain (Dhaka-5) regarding alleged irregularities in the procurement and maintenance of container scanners at Chittagong Port, the Prime Minister said any corruption involving state assets will be dealt with strictly under the law. "Chittagong Port is a national asset belonging to the people. If corruption has taken place there at any time, those responsible will certainly face justice in accordance with the country's laws," he told Parliament. Tarique Rahman said his government remains committed to preventing the misuse of state resources and gradually building a corruption-free environment across public institutions.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday said the government has undertaken various initiatives to prepare an accurate and comprehensive list of those who were martyred during the War of Liberation in 1971, noting that the governments immediately after the Liberation War had failed to compile a neutral and complete register as they had politicised the process. "Unfortunately, those who were responsible after the country's independence for preparing a neutral and comprehensive list of those martyred in the War of Liberation did not do so. Instead, politics was brought into the process of preparing the list," he told Parliament. The Prime Minister made the remarks while responding to a starred question from BNP lawmaker Md Ruhul Amin Dulal (Pirojpur-3) during the question-and-answer session in the House. Deputy Speaker Kayser Kamal presided over the sitting. Tarique Rahman said realising the importance of the issue, the present government pledged in its election manifesto to prepare a comprehensive list of the Liberation War martyrs based on thorough research. To fulfil that commitment, he said, the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs has already undertaken a number of initiatives, including organising meetings with Liberation War researchers, holding continuous discussion with relevant stakeholders, and formulating a detailed and practical action plan. "The government believes that through these initiatives, it will be possible to prepare an accurate and widely acceptable list of all those martyred during the Liberation War and the genocide, and ensure proper recognition and honour for their sacrifices," the Prime Minister said. Replying to a supplementary question from Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami lawmaker Md Anwarul Islam (Kurigram-1), he said BNP sincerely believes it has a sacred responsibility towards the Liberation War and freedom fighters. Tarique Rahman reiterated that those who had the responsibility of preparing an accurate and impartial list of freedom fighters after independence failed to do so, while subsequent efforts to prepare the lists over the years were also hampered by various problems. He said the government is now working with experts to prepare a complete and accurate list of freedom fighters based on credible research and verification.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday announced that the government will introduce the Prime Minister Gold Cup football tournament for primary school students from next year as part of its efforts to promote sports among children. "From next year, we are going to launch the Prime Minister Gold Cup for primary school children. Initially it will be introduced at the primary level and gradually we will extend it to secondary schools as well, Inshallah. The decision has almost been finalised," he said. The Prime Minister made this announcement while responding to a supplementary question from treasury bench member ABM Mosharrof Hossain (Patuakhali-4) during the question-and-answer session in the House. The Parliament resumed its sitting in the afternoon with Deputy Speaker Kayser Kamal in the chair. The Prime Minister said a football competition for both boys and girls at the primary school level has recently been held, with participation of nearly 22 lakh children. Referring to Mosharrof Hossain's proposal to revive the President Gold Cup football tournament introduced by late President Ziaur Rahman, Tarique Rahman said the government can take the initiative following discussion on this matter. Replying to a starred question from BNP lawmaker Luthfullahel Mazed (Mymensingh-8), the Prime Minister said the government would gradually develop the remaining 151 parks, playgrounds, children's parks, Eidgah grounds and open spaces owned by the National Housing Authority, RAJUK and other agencies. He said preparations have been taken to evict illegal occupants from parks and playgrounds under the Dhaka City Corporation, adding that eviction drives would continue in the future to keep those facilities free from encroachment. The Prime Minister said there are 189 parks, playgrounds and open spaces in Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) area  of which 38 including 24 parks, six playgrounds, four children's parks and four Eidgah grounds are owned by the corporation. He said initiatives have been taken to appoint security guards, install street lighting and CCTV cameras, conduct public awareness programmes to ensure the safety of parks and playgrounds. He said all 38 DNCC-owned parks, playgrounds and open spaces are currently free from encroachment and are being managed in a planned manner. He said the standard of sports in the country has improved significantly since the present government assumed office, while children are now getting greater opportunities to play in open fields. Regarding Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), Tarique Rahman said the authorities remain committed to removing illegal encroachments from playgrounds and footpaths in line with court directives and that the drive would continue. He said DSCC area has 256 parks and playgrounds owned by the city corporation and other agencies, and illegal occupants have already been evicted from those facilities. The PM also focused on the parks, playground and open spaces in other city corporations including Gazipur, Mymensingh and Barishal. Responding to another supplementary question from BNP lawmaker Jalal Uddin (Kishoreganj-2), the Prime Minister said the government has already instructed Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Upazila Nirbahi Officers (UNOs) to identify open spaces suitable for developing sports infrastructure. "We have already instructed them to identify open spaces available for children and people of all ages to play sports and inform the government about the spaces," he said.

Former US President Joe Biden will publish a new memoir this November reflecting on his presidency, key policy decisions and his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, his publisher announced on Wednesday. The memoir, titled "Promise Me, America," is scheduled for release on November 17, about two weeks after the US midterm elections in which Democrats hope to regain control of Congress. According to publisher Little, Brown and Company, the book will cover a range of topics, including the US economy, major domestic and foreign policy decisions, and Biden's choice to end his bid for a second term in office. In a video released alongside the announcement, Biden said the memoir focuses on the challenges the United States faced during his presidency and the decisions he made while in office. "'Promise Me, America' is about the challenges we faced as a nation. It's about the decisions I made and why I made them. Most of all, it's about my faith in the promise of America," he said. The timing of the book's release has drawn attention as it comes shortly after the congressional elections. Some Democrats remain divided over Biden's political legacy and his decision to initially seek re-election before stepping aside following a widely criticised debate performance against Republican Donald Trump in June 2024. Party leaders have sought to keep the election campaign focused on President Donald Trump's record rather than renewed debate over Biden's presidency. Biden, who will turn 84 three days after the book's publication, joins a long tradition of former US presidents publishing memoirs about their years in office. Financial details of the publishing agreement were not disclosed, though presidential memoirs have traditionally commanded multi-million-dollar book deals. The title echoes Biden's 2017 memoir, "Promise Me, Dad," which chronicled the illness and death of his son Beau Biden. Biden's presidency began amid the COVID-19 pandemic and shortly after the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol. His administration was marked by major infrastructure and economic legislation, as well as responses to conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. The memoir is also expected to address questions surrounding Biden's health during his presidency. Concerns intensified after his debate performance in June 2024, which ultimately led him to abandon his re-election campaign. Then-Vice President Kamala Harris became the Democratic nominee but lost the election to Trump. Former first lady Jill Biden wrote in her recent memoir that she feared her husband had suffered a medical emergency during the debate because he appeared unusually weak and disoriented. She also acknowledged that the White House's explanation that Biden had a cold failed to satisfy many observers. Questions over Biden's health continued throughout his presidency, with both Republicans and Democrats criticising his administration over its handling of the issue. In 2025, journalists Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson published "Original Sin," examining Biden's physical decline and his decision to seek another term. Also in 2025, Biden announced he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. In his video message announcing the memoir, he said he has been undergoing treatment and that it is progressing well. "I've been spending a lot of time with my family. I'm dealing with a cancer diagnosis, been getting treatment, and it's going really well," Biden said, thanking supporters for their prayers and well-wishes. The publisher said Biden plans to promote the memoir through interviews and a book tour following its release.

Iran on Wednesday threatened to stop all oil and gas exports from the Middle East after the United States reinstated its naval blockade and intensified airstrikes against the country, further escalating tensions that have pushed the region closer to a wider conflict. The latest exchange of attacks follows the collapse of an interim agreement aimed at ending hostilities between Washington and Tehran, with renewed fighting centred on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy shipping route. According to Iranian officials, US airstrikes targeted several military sites, including a barracks belonging to Iran's 388th Mechanized Infantry Brigade in Sistan and Baluchestan province. At least seven Iranian troops were killed and more than 260 people were wounded in overnight strikes, while government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani said more than 30 people had been killed in recent days. Iran's state television reported that at least 13 missiles struck the military base, killing both conscripts and professional soldiers. Iranian authorities said the army would respond decisively to what it described as American aggression. The US military's Central Command said it carried out strikes on dozens of targets during a seven-hour overnight operation and resumed attacks during daylight hours, signalling an increase in the pace of military operations. The renewed hostilities come after Washington restored the naval blockade it had first imposed in April before lifting it last month following an interim deal that suspended fighting for 60 days to allow negotiations on Iran's nuclear programme and other issues. Those talks have since stalled as tensions over the Strait of Hormuz intensified. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned that if the blockade continues, no country in the region would be allowed to export oil or gas. "The export of oil and gas from the region will be either for everyone or for no one," the IRGC said in a statement. The Strait of Hormuz remains central to the dispute, with about one-fifth of the world's oil and natural gas trade passing through the waterway during normal times. Iran had effectively disrupted shipping through the strait during the early stages of the conflict, causing global energy prices to surge. Although some commercial vessels resumed using an alternative route near Oman under US military protection during the ceasefire, Iran recently targeted ships using that corridor, triggering another round of military exchanges. Iran also launched missile and drone attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan on Wednesday, according to regional authorities. Missile warning sirens sounded in Bahrain and Kuwait, while Jordan said it intercepted three incoming Iranian missiles. Tehran claimed responsibility for the attacks, targeting countries that host US military forces. US Central Command chief Adm. Brad Cooper said Iran had launched dozens of missiles and drones toward Gulf Arab states in recent days. US President Donald Trump warned that American military operations would continue unless negotiations resumed. "You better make a deal, or you're not going to have anything left," Trump said, indicating that bridges, power plants and other infrastructure could become future targets. Iran's Ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, accused Washington of escalating the conflict, saying in a letter to the UN that "the US is the aggressor, not the victim." The renewed fighting has also affected global energy markets. Brent crude traded above $85 per barrel on Wednesday, more than 15 percent higher than before the conflict began, although still below the peak levels reached earlier during the war. Trump had earlier proposed imposing a 20 percent fee on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz but later abandoned the plan, saying Gulf allies instead pledged major investment in the United States. Regional mediators continue efforts to bring the United States and Iran back to the negotiating table, though prospects for renewed diplomacy remain uncertain amid the ongoing military escalation.

Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) posted a 2.2 percent growth in exports in the fiscal year (FY) 2025-26, outperforming the country’s overall export performance despite a slowdown in the global economy and a slight decline in Bangladesh’s total exports. Exports from its export processing zones (EPZs) reached US$8.41 billion during FY26, accounting for 17.51 percent of Bangladesh’s total exports of US$48 billion, said a press release. In the previous fiscal year, exports from BEPZA-run zones stood at US$8.22 billion out of the country’s total exports of US$48.28 billion. While Bangladesh’s overall exports declined by 0.58 percent in FY26, exports from BEPZA zones recorded positive growth, highlighting the resilience of enterprises operating in the zones. BEPZA also achieved its highest-ever investment commitment in a single fiscal year by signing lease agreements with 36 companies from China, South Korea, the British Virgin Islands, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Samoa and Bangladesh. The proposed investment amounts to US$717.71 million. Once the projects go into full commercial production, they are expected to generate employment for 75,744 Bangladeshi nationals. The new investments cover a wide range of diversified industries, including bags and luggage, fashion accessories, textiles, electrical and electronic products, Bluetooth headphones, aircraft amenity kits, toy and fishing drones, lightweight cargo drones, footwear, leather goods, light engineering products, camping furniture, greenhouse hydroponic tents, agricultural products, processed foods and household items. BEPZA said growing investor confidence has encouraged existing investors to expand their operations. It cited China’s Kaixi Group as an example. After investing US$60.85 million in Kaixi Lingerie Bangladesh, the group signed another lease agreement to invest an additional US$40.50 million in Kaixi Garments Bangladesh. Excluding working capital, actual investment worth US$286.46 million was made in BEPZA zones during FY26 in the form of capital machinery, construction materials and other assets. According to Bangladesh Bank data, BEPZA recorded net foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows of US$221.58 million during the first nine months of FY26 (July 2025 to March 2026), accounting for 19.61 percent of the country’s total FDI net inflows during the period. Employment in BEPZA zones also reached a record high during the fiscal year. A total of 25,164 new jobs were created, raising cumulative employment from 533,527 at the end of June 2025 to 558,691 by the end of June 2026. BEPZA said its diversified industrial base continues to reduce dependence on the readymade garment sector. Of the 451 operational enterprises, 33 percent are engaged in garment manufacturing, 18 percent in garment accessories and 8 percent in textiles, while the remaining 41 percent produce a broad range of diversified products. Products manufactured in BEPZA-run zones are currently exported to 129 countries, reflecting the expanding global reach and competitiveness of Bangladesh’s export-oriented industries. BEPZA currently operates eight Export Processing Zones and the BEPZA Economic Zone. As of June 2026, cumulative investment in BEPZA zones stood at US$7.37 billion, while cumulative exports reached US$127.42 billion. A total of 566 industrial enterprises are under BEPZA, including 451 in commercial operation and 115 under implementation.

A Mymensingh court on Wednesday sentenced two people to death and 10 others to life imprisonment for killing a deed writer in 2013. Judge of the Mymensingh Special Sessions Judge Court Farhana Ferdous handed down the judgment. The condemned convicts are Md Farid, 48, son of Janab Ali, and Md Masud Mia, 41, son of Abdus Samad, both of the Narangi area in Bhaluka upazila. The court also fined them Tk 30,000 each. Those sentenced to life imprisonment are Abdus Samad, 68, A Matin, 45, Mosharraf Hossain, 58, Mokhlesur Rahman, 53, Mofazzal Hossain, 58, Tofazzal Hossain, 48, Nazmul Mia, 43, Shahjahan Akond, 48, Atiqul Akond, 39, and Siddik Mia, 63. Of them, Siddik Mia was tried in absentia. The court also fined each of them Tk 50,000, in default, to suffer, six months more in jail. According to the prosecution, Abu Zakaria Mintu, a deed writer, was stabbed to death in an attack by the convicts over a land dispute in Narangi of Bhaluka upazila on August 14, 2013. Latifa Khatun, Mintu's wife, filed a case against 16 people with Bhaluka Model Police Station. After examining the case records and hearing testimony from 18 witnesses, the Mymensingh Special Sessions Judge Court delivered the verdict.

Unidentified criminals opened fire at a group of journalists in Khulna city early Wednesday though no casualties were reported. The incident occurred around 12:30am in front of a tea stall on the western side of the United Nations Shishu Park in the city. According to witnesses, several journalists had gathered at the tea stall after work, as they regularly do, when two young men arrived on a motorcycle and opened fire at them. The bullet missed its intended target and struck the leg of a chair. Fragments from the bullet reportedly grazed the chest of journalist Awal, causing a minor injury. He is now out of danger, fellow journalists said. SA TV correspondent Mati said six journalists were chatting at the spot when the attackers suddenly fired at them before fleeing the scene. Senior Staff Reporter of the Daily Khulanchal, Syed Rana Kabir, said the bullet lodged in a chair after missing the journalists, while a fragment lightly injured Awal. On receiving information, police rushed to the scene and recovered part of a bullet. Officer-in-Charge of Khulna Police Station Md Shafiqul Islam said no casualties were reported. “We recovered part of the bullet from the scene and are investigating the motive behind the shooting,” he said, adding that police are trying to identify those involved.

Five children died with symptoms consistent with measles in the 24 hours until 8:00am on Wednesday, bringing Bangladesh’s combined tally of confirmed and suspected measles-related deaths to 772. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has classified the latest deaths as suspected measles fatalities. With the latest update, the number of suspected measles deaths has risen to 676, while the number of laboratory-confirmed measles deaths remained unchanged at 95. A total of 920 new suspected measles cases were reported during the period, bringing the cumulative number of suspected cases nationwide to 114,164. Meanwhile, 172 new confirmed measles cases were recorded, bringing the total number of laboratory-confirmed infections to 13,907. Since March 15, a total of 96,887 patients with suspected measles have been hospitalised across the country, of whom 93,260  have recovered, according to DGHS data.

A section of  HSC examinees again blocked a major road in Dhaka's Uttara area on Wednesday demanding resignation of the Education Minister and implementation of a six-point demand. The protesters occupied the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway in front of the BNS Center shortly after completing their examinations, halting vehicular movement on the main road connecting Uttara with other parts of the capital. Assistant Commissioner Mahbubur Rahman of the Uttara East Zone under the Uttara Division of Dhaka Metropolitan Traffic Police said the students took to the road at around 1:15 pm after their examinations. "They are at the same place where they stayed yesterday, in front of BNS Center. Vehicular movement on both sides of the road has remained suspended because of their presence," he said. Hundreds of vehicles were seen stranded on the Tongi-bound flyover, while traffic congestion spread to adjacent roads. Only a limited number of motorbikes and ambulances are being allowed to pass through one side of the road. Law enforcement personnel were deployed in and around the area to maintain order. Additional police members remained on duty, while a water cannon was kept ready to deal with any untoward situation, said police. The protesters said their demand for the resignation of the Education Minister remained unchanged.

Two farmers were killed in separate lightning strike incidents in Debiganj upazila of Panchagarh district on Wednesday. Mamun Islam, 30, son of Khadimul Islam of the Sonahar Malchandi Paschim Telipara area, was killed after being struck by lightning while cutting jute during rain at around 11:40 am, said Ashraful Islam Emu, chairman of Sadar Union in the upazila. In another incident, Akabbor Khan, 60, of the Shimultoli area under Dandapal Union, was killed after being struck by lightning while working in his field, said Chairman Ashraful. Both were taken to Debiganj Upazila Health Complex, where doctors declared them dead.        

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited Kyiv on Wednesday to mark Ukraine's Statehood Day, reaffirming the European Union's continued military and financial backing for the country as it continues to resist Russia's full-scale invasion, now in its fourth year. Ukraine has faced ongoing threats to its sovereignty since Russia occupied and illegally annexed Crimea in 2014. Eight years later, Moscow launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. Statehood Day, observed as a national holiday, celebrates Ukraine's independence and self-determination. The war has claimed thousands of military and civilian lives, displaced millions, devastated cities and heightened concerns that the conflict could escalate into a broader confrontation between Russia and NATO, whose members have continued to support Kyiv. Despite diplomatic efforts, there is still no sign of a peace agreement. Senior officials from several southeastern European countries were also expected in Kyiv on Wednesday for a regional summit focused on Black Sea and broader security issues. A similar meeting held in the southern city of Odesa last year reaffirmed support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. In recent weeks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has secured renewed commitments of assistance from the Group of Seven (G7) industrialized nations and the Coalition of the Willing. Von der Leyen, making her 11th wartime visit to Ukraine, said Europe remains alert to Russia's wider ambitions and has already provided Ukraine with billions of euros in financial aid, military assistance and diplomatic support. She said the EU would announce new measures to strengthen cooperation between European and Ukrainian defense industries and provide additional assistance to improve Ukraine's air defense systems ahead of winter, when Russia has repeatedly targeted the country's energy infrastructure. Her visit comes as Western officials and analysts say Ukraine has stepped up long-range drone and missile strikes deep inside Russian territory, hitting strategic targets, disrupting military supply routes and contributing to fuel shortages in some areas. "It's a special moment," von der Leyen wrote on social media. "Ukraine has built a strong military momentum. The tide is turning." Also attending the Southeast Europe Summit in Kyiv was Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, whose country maintains close ties with Moscow. Although Serbia officially supports Ukraine's territorial integrity, it has declined to join Western sanctions against Russia following the invasion, largely because of its heavy dependence on Russian energy supplies. Meanwhile, Ukrainian authorities said Russian aerial attacks killed at least eight civilians and injured 11 others on Wednesday. In the northern Sumy region, Russian forces dropped six glide bombs, mainly targeting infrastructure, killing three people and injuring seven, according to regional military administration chief Oleh Hryhorov. Another Russian strike on the southern city of Odesa killed three people and wounded three others, local military administration head Serhii Lysak said. In the northern Chernihiv region, Russian drone attacks killed two people and seriously injured an 18-year-old, according to regional military administration chief Viacheslav Chaus. Russia's Defense Ministry said its air defense systems intercepted 93 Ukrainian drones overnight over several Russian regions, as well as over Crimea, the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea.  

Education Minister Dr A N M Ehsanul Haque Milon on Wednesday announced that HSC examinees who were unable to attend examinations due to adverse weather or other unavoidable reasons will be allowed to sit for the missed papers. Making a statement in Parliament under Rule 300, the minister said the special arrangement has been made considering the importance of the HSC examination in students' academic lives. He said a total of 12, 70,583 candidates are taking the HSC and equivalent examinations this year at 2,697 examination centres across the country. The minister said examinations have already been postponed in five districts under the Chattogram Education Board- Chattogram, Cox's Bazar, Khagrachhari, Rangamati and Bandarban due to heavy rainfall and adverse weather condition. He added that apart from tChattogram Education Board, some candidates in Dhaka and several other districts were also unable to sit scheduled examinations because of inclement weather and various unavoidable circumstances. "Candidates who could not participate in any subject of the ongoing HSC and equivalent examinations due to adverse weather or other unavoidable reasons will be allowed to sit those examinations on the same date and at the same time fixed by the Education Ministry for the already postponed examinations under the Chattogram Education Board," the minister told Parliament. He said the examinations would be held using identical question papers for the relevant subjects. The minister also updated Parliament on the controversy surrounding the Physics First Paper examination. He said the officials responsible for preparing the erroneous question paper have already been suspended . Reiterating the government's assurance to examinees, Milon said all candidates would receive full marks for Questions 6 and 7 of the Physics First Paper, where errors were identified. He said the government remained committed to ensuring that no student would be affected because of mistakes in the examination process or circumstances beyond their control.  

Bangladesh has moved to deepen cooperation with Canada in livestock development, safe animal-based food production, food security and trade capacity building. A high-level delegation from the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, led by Secretary Delwar Hossain, held a bilateral meeting with Prarthi Muthukumarasamy, Director General of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), and other senior officials at the agency's headquarters in Ottawa on Tuesday afternoon (local time), said a PID handout on Wednesday. The two sides held detailed discussions on livestock development, food security, animal health, veterinary services, animal feed quality control, disease surveillance, research, institutional capacity building, and implementation of Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures. They also expressed mutual interest in expanding trade in animal products, enhancing technical cooperation, exchanging information and expertise, developing skilled human resources, and upgrading modern laboratory and food inspection systems. Speaking at the meeting, Livestock Secretary said the government is attaching the highest priority to producing international-standard safe animal-based foods and boosting export capabilities, adding that technical assistance from the CFIA would play a vital role in strengthening Bangladesh's capacity in the sector. Welcoming the Bangladeshi delegation, CFIA Director General expressed interest in bolstering mutual cooperation to improve food safety, animal health, and regulatory frameworks, and hoped the exchange of knowledge, technology, and experience between institutions of the two countries would increase in the future. Both sides expressed optimism that the meeting would open new horizons for long-term cooperation in livestock development, safe food production, and international trade between Bangladesh and Canada.

Internet service providers (ISPs) on Wednesday warned that countrywide internet services could face disruption if the authorities concerned fail to arrest within the next 24 hours those behind a spate of attacks, vandalism, looting, and extortion targeting ISP offices, network infrastructure and staff. The warning came at a human chain organised by the Bangladesh Mobile Phone Consumers Association (BMPCA) in front of the Jatiya Press Club, protesting the recent wave of attacks on ISP establishments across the country. Speaking at the programme, Internet Service Providers Association of Bangladesh (ISPAB) President Aminul Hakim said suspects behind an incident in Chattogram remained at large 24 hours after it occurred, leaving ISP owners and employees fearful. He warned that if the extortionists are not arrested within the next 24 hours, service could collapse on its own as providers struggle to maintain uninterrupted operations. ISPAB Secretary General Nazmul Karim Bhuiyan said the association's mandate is not street agitation, but that ISPs have been forced onto the streets to demand their own security after extortionists went unarrested despite the presence of law enforcement in Chattogram. He said a decision on tougher action would be taken if steps are not taken within 24 hours, urging the government not to force them into further programmes. Speakers at the human chain said the continued attacks, vandalism, looting, land-grabbing and extortion against ISPs are disrupting not only entrepreneurs but the daily lives, education, healthcare, business, freelancing, e-commerce, mobile banking and government digital services of millions of internet subscribers, describing internet connectivity as essential digital infrastructure rather than merely a commercial service. BMPCA President Mohiuddin Ahmed said deliberately disrupting internet service is a serious offence, and attacks, vandalism, looting, extortion or destruction of networks that deprive the public of internet access should be treated with equal severity. The human chain placed a five-point- maximum security for internet infrastructure, data centres, fibre optic networks, towers and ISP offices, swift arrest and exemplary punishment under existing law for those involved in attacks, vandalism, looting, land-grabbing and extortion, treating disruption of internet services causing public suffering and digital economic losses as a serious economic and digital offence, with necessary legal action, coordinated security for ISPs involving law enforcement agencies, local administration and the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC); and top priority for internet infrastructure security to keep the digital economy, online education, healthcare, e-commerce, mobile banking and government digital services running smoothly. Speakers urged the government, law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities to take immediate, strict and effective action against the perpetrators and ensure exemplary punishment.

Bangladesh Bank has granted general permission for fully foreign-owned industrial enterprises, operating both within and outside specialised economic zones, to borrow directly from their parent companies, associates, or shareholders abroad, in a move aimed at easing access to finance for foreign investors. The central bank's Foreign Exchange Investment Department (FEID) issued the directive through FEID Circular on Wednesday revising earlier provisions under FE Circular No. 34 of September 2, 2025, which governed external borrowing by such enterprises. Under the new provisions, foreign-owned manufacturing and service enterprises outside specialised zones such as EPZs, PEPZs, EZs and HTPs can now avail short-term borrowing of less than one year without prior Bangladesh Bank approval, provided the funds are used for genuine business purposes. The circular allows two options for such borrowing-enterprises may take interest-free loans for general working capital needs, excluding input procurement, with no central bank clearance required even for principal repayment. Alternatively, they may opt for cost-bearing loans in convertible foreign currencies, including for input procurement, but the all-in cost of such borrowing must not exceed 3 percent per annum. These loans must be repaid in a single bullet payment at maturity and may be rolled over, provided the total tenor, including rollovers, does not exceed three years from the date of initial drawdown. Such short-term facilities cannot be converted into medium or long-term loans. Authorized Dealers (ADs) have been directed to report all such transactions to the FEID within one week of execution, in addition to routine reporting requirements.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has expressed optimism that the new law (Prevention and Suppression of Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Act, 2026) will play a crucial role in preventing human trafficking and migrant smuggling as well as curbing organised criminal networks. Bangladesh’s legal and institutional capacity has been elevated to international standards, keeping pace with the constantly evolving tactics of criminal syndicate , he said while addressing the National Dissemination Meeting on the "Prevention and Suppression of Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Act, 2026," held at a hotel  in the capital. The Ministry of Home Affairs and Justice & Care, Bangladesh, jointly organized the event. The Minister reiterated the firm and unwavering commitment of the Government of Bangladesh to suppress human trafficking and migrant smuggling through a strong law, effective institutional coordination, and a victim-centric criminal justice system. The Minister further highlighted that the new law clearly defines human trafficking and migrant smuggling as separate and distinct offenses. This national-level dissemination programme created an important opportunity to build a unified and clear understanding of the new law among the institutions responsible for its implementation. Participants exchanged views on the key provisions and implementation framework of the Act. The priorities for effective enforcement, including strengthening coordination at every step of the criminal justice process from investigation to judicial disposal were also discussed during the session. The event was attended by Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke, US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen, Inspector General of Bangladesh Police Md. Ali Hossain Fakir, DG of Bangladesh Coast Guard Rear Admiral Md Ziaul Hoque, DG of BGB Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui and Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs Dr. Ziauddin Ahmed as special guests.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday sought the support of primary school teachers in building a "humane Bangladesh", stressing that alongside academic learning, children must be taught moral values, compassion, culture and responsibility towards nature from an early age. "If we want to build a humane Bangladesh, we must first raise our children as humane people. You (teachers) are the architects who are shaping those future citizens," he said while addressing a ceremony to distribute the Primary Education Medal-2026 at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Agargaon. The Prime Minister said the day's events, including the nationwide tree plantation campaign, exhibitions by schools from across the country and cultural performances by primary school students, convinced him that Bangladesh is nurturing the generation that will build the country's future. "It felt to me as if I entered a factory that produces the builders of tomorrow's Bangladesh," he said. Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister inaugurated a nationwide tree plantation programme by planting a sapling at the venue under the Green School initiative. Nearly 2 lakh saplings were planted simultaneously across the country through the participation of government primary schools.  

A new exhibition in Hungary is giving visitors a rare chance to meet the people of ancient Rome through lifelike facial reconstructions based on DNA analysis and forensic science. The exhibition, titled "Once We Were Like You," is being held at the Aquincum Museum in Budapest until Oct. 31. It features highly detailed reconstructions of more than a dozen people whose skulls were unearthed in Aquincum, a thriving Roman settlement on the Danube frontier nearly 2,000 years ago. The reconstructed faces include a blacksmith, a stable boy, a soldier and a slave, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people who once lived in the Roman city. "Our main goal was to bring some of these individuals closer to people today," said Loránt Vass, an archaeologist and co-curator of the exhibition. According to the museum, the exhibition seeks to answer questions about everyday people in ancient times—what they looked like, who they were and how they lived. Experts used DNA extracted from the bones to identify features such as skin, hair and eye colour, and even whether a person likely had freckles. The skulls also provided clues about facial structure, age, injuries and diseases. Using these findings, curators created names, occupations and life stories for each reconstructed individual, based on historical evidence and scientific analysis. "We don't know their real names, unfortunately, but we tried to include everything anthropology and genetic studies could tell us about their lives," said co-curator Péter Vámos. One reconstructed figure, named Respectus, is portrayed as a construction worker who earned a living plastering walls and cutting stone. According to the exhibit, years of hard labour left visible marks on his bones. It also suggests he broke his nose and lost a tooth during a tavern fight after drinking wine. Vass said Respectus reflects the lives of many people who lived in Aquincum. Analysis showed that most of the skeletons had signs of inflammation, indicating years of physically demanding work. "They regularly performed hard labour, and many also experienced periods of hunger," Vass said. "This suggests that most belonged to the lower middle class, a group that is rarely remembered in Roman history." Among the 16 reconstructions, six are life-size silicone models that have been carefully painted and fitted with realistic hair, clothing and jewellery. Artist Emese Gábor, who created the silicone models, said artificial intelligence can generate digital images of ancient faces, but physical reconstructions provide a more meaningful museum experience. "They can be viewed from every angle and are life-size," she said. "I rely on scientific methods and combine traditional and modern techniques in this work." DNA analysis also revealed the ethnic diversity of Aquincum's population. The findings showed that, alongside Roman citizens from what is now Italy, the city was home to people whose ancestors came from present-day Scotland and Syria, as well as members of the nomadic Sarmatian tribes. The region's earlier Celtic inhabitants were also represented. Vass said archaeological discoveries often end up as stored artifacts, with little attention paid to the people behind them. "The bodies have no weight, no life, no soul," he said. By recreating the faces of Aquincum's former residents, the museum hopes visitors will see them as people much like themselves. "The title of the exhibition reminds us that they were like we are today," Vass said. "They had jobs, faced challenges and lived ordinary lives. Their circumstances may have been different, but people are still people. I don't think that has changed much throughout history."

State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit on Wednesday said the government is making its highest effort to ease the suffering of people affected by heavy rainfall and flash floods in Bandarban. Speaking to reporters after distributing relief among flood victims at Amtali Para in Bandarban municipality, the state minister said the government would stand by all affected people. “No one affected by the disaster will be abandoned. Whether they are indigenous people, Bengalis or members of any other community, everyone has suffered equally. There will be no discrimination, and the government is working with utmost sincerity to reduce their hardship,” he said. Amit said he visited Bandarban on the instructions of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to assess the situation and oversee relief efforts. He said local lawmaker Saching Pru Jerry, the district administration, police and other government agencies have been carrying out rescue, relief and rehabilitation activities since the first day of the flooding. Cooked meals are being provided to people staying at flood shelters, while dry food is being distributed to those outside the shelters and medical teams are also providing healthcare services to affected residents, he said . He said the government would launch food assistance and food-friendly programmes within the next few days to enable flood victims to purchase essential commodities at subsidised prices, easing their financial burden. Amit also said the government would gradually repair or rebuild houses damaged or destroyed by the floods so that affected families could return home and resume normal life as quickly as possible. Referring to the post-flood situation, he said receding water has left many areas covered with mud and waste, creating unhealthy conditions. He said coordinated clean-up operations involving the local administration, municipality, elected representatives and political activists would be launched to minimise the risk of disease outbreaks and restore affected areas to a habitable condition.

Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) seized assets worth around Tk 76,000 crore  including Tk 57,000 crore in Bangladesh and Tk 19,000 crore abroad as per court orders during the 2024-25 fiscal year. "The money has been seized by court order and the assets will remain frozen until the legal process is completed," BFIU Head Iqtiaruddin Md. Mamun said at a press briefing at the Bangladesh Bank headquarters on Tuesday while unveiling the BFIU Annual Report 2024-25. He said the BFIU remains committed to protecting the assets of the people of Bangladesh and is conducting investigations into suspicious financial transactions impartially, regardless of political affiliation or personal identity. Responding to a question, Mamun said the BFIU has strengthened its anti-money laundering efforts by increasing the use of technology including Artificial Intelligence (AI) to detect suspicious transactions more effectively. The annual report also showed that the BFIU recorded a 74 percent increase in suspicious financial reports in FY2024-25 compared to the previous fiscal year. According to the report, the financial intelligence agency received 30,199 suspicious reports during FY2024-25 including 20,524 Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) and 9,675 Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs). The figure was significantly higher than the 17,345 reports received in FY2023-24 and nearly six times the 5,280 reports submitted in FY2020-21. The BFIU attributed the sharp rise to stronger regulatory enforcement and compliance requirements for reporting entities, improved technological capabilities for transaction monitoring and pattern detection, increased awareness among financial institutions about money laundering and terrorist financing risks, and a rise in suspicious financial activities, including online gambling and betting, foreign exchange (FX) and cryptocurrency trading, and digital hundi. The report said the banking sector continued to dominate Bangladesh's financial intelligence reporting system, accounting for 95 percent of all submissions in FY2024-25, up from 92 percent a year earlier. Banks alone submitted 28,755 STRs and SARs during the fiscal year, marking an 80 percent increase from 15,991 reports in FY2023-24. Although financial institutions and money remitters also recorded increases in the number of suspicious reports over the past three years, their overall contributions remained limited, accounting for about one percent and four percent of total reports respectively in FY2024-25. The report also noted increased cooperation between the BFIU and law enforcement agencies. Requests for financial intelligence from law enforcement and intelligence agencies rose by about 15 percent to 1,329 in FY2024-25 from 1,157 in the previous fiscal year. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Bangladesh Police and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) were the leading agencies seeking financial intelligence from the BFIU. Meanwhile, the BFIU observed a year-on-year decline in Cash Transaction Reports (CTRs), which are mandatory for cash deposits or withdrawals of Tk 10 lakh or more in a single day. Banks and financial institutions reported 31.25 million cash transactions involving Tk 19,452 billion, while financial companies reported 1,484 such transactions worth Tk 2.17 billion. According to the report, the decline in CTRs reflects Bangladesh Bank's continued efforts to promote a cashless and digitally enabled financial ecosystem.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday visited stalls set up by government primary schools under the 'Green School' programme, where he urged children to keep their schools clean and continue helping one another through small acts of kindness. The Prime Minister toured the exhibition after inaugurating the Green School programme at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre by planting a tree, where students and teachers from 60 districts showcased innovative educational activities, local heritage, handicrafts, environmental initiatives and creative learning projects. The Ministry of Primary and Mass Education organised the programme, which featured the presentation of the Primary Education Medal 2026, the inauguration of the nationwide Green School tree plantation campaign and exhibitions showcasing innovative primary education initiatives from across the country. During the visit, Tarique interacted warmly with children, teachers and school authorities, praising their creativity and encouraging them to continue their innovative initiatives. "Assalamu Alaikum. How are you all?" the Prime Minister asked as he entered different stalls, where students proudly displayed handicrafts, models and learning materials they had prepared. When he asked whether they had made the exhibits themselves, the children replied in unison, "Yes, Honourable Prime Minister." Tarique thanked both the students and teachers for their efforts. Teachers briefed the Prime Minister on students' attendance, playground facilities and various educational activities under the "Joyful Learning" and "Digital Education" programmes. He also asked students what games they usually played and listened attentively to explanations about different learning activities. At one stall, students told the Prime Minister that they regularly save part of their tiffin money to support classmates from underprivileged families and share meals together. "You are doing a very good job," Tarique told them. The students also explained their daily class routines, tiffin breaks and extracurricular activities. After learning about one educational game, the Prime Minister remarked, "The game is excellent." Visiting another stall, Tarique shook hands with young students and urged them to keep their schools clean. "Keep your school clean. Whenever you see litter, pick it up and throw it into the proper bin. All right?" he told the children. The students enthusiastically responded, "Yes, Sir."  

A 35 year-old woman was stabbed to death allegedly by her ex-husband in front of her house in Badda area of the capital on Tuesday night. The deceased was identified as Jhumur Akter, daughter of Zafor Hawladar of Titkata village in Sadar upazila of Patuakhali district. According to one of the relative of the deceased, Jhumur had a divorce with her first husband many years ago. They have a 12-year-old son from that marriage. Later, she married Rezaul after a love relationship, but their marriage ended after three years. She then married an expatriate for the 3rd time and had been living with him. They also have a daughter. On Tuesday, Rezaul went to the house of Jhumur in Badda around 9:30 pm and asked her to meet him at the ground floor of the building. At one stage, they engaged into a heated argument and Rezaul hit Jhumur with a sharp weapon, leaving her critically injured. She was taken to Dhaka Medical College and Hospital where the doctors declared her dead, said Inspector Md Faruk, in-charge of the hospital police camp. Hearing screams of Jhumur, local people rushed in and caught Rezaul. He was later handed over to police.                

At least 10 people suffered burn injuries after an air conditioner exploded at a salon in Alu Bazar area of Bangshal in the capital early Wednesday. The injured were taken to the Emergency Department of the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery around 1:30 am. The injured were salon employees Shamsed, 30, Raju, 34, Pappu, 26, Arman, 37, and Shakib, 17, and customers Faruk, 35, Rinku, 30, Rony, 36, Jasim, 40, and Rafik, 25. Burn Institute's resident physician Dr Shawon Bin Rahman said all 10 victims were brought to the hospital with burn injuries. Faruk sustained 50 percent burns, Rinku 21 percent, Raju 18 percent, Pappu 18 percent, Shamsed 15 percent, Arman 15 percent, Rafik 12 percent, Rony 10 percent, Jasim 8 percent and Shakib 1 percent, he said. Of the injured, nine were admitted to the institute while Shakib was kept under observation in the emergency department as his injuries were minor, Dr Shawon said.

President-elect of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly Dr Khalilur Rahman has reaffirmed his commitment to an open, inclusive and Member State-driven presidency. Dr Khalilur, also Foreign Minister of Bangladesh, received Juraj Blanár, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovakia; Lasha Darsalia, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia; and Zoran Dimitrovski, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of North Macedonia, in New York on Wednesday. In separate meetings, they exchanged views on priorities for the 81st session of the General Assembly, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Grameenphone Limited has declared an interim cash dividend of 105 percent for the year 2026, equivalent to Tk 10.50 per share of Tk 10 each, alongside its audited financial statements for the six months ended June 30, 2026. The dividend represents 100 percent of the company's profit after tax for the January-June period, according to a disclosure sent to the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) on Wednesday. The record date for entitlement to the interim cash dividend has been set for August 12, 2026. Based on the audited accounts, Grameenphone's earnings per share (EPS) stood at Tk 5.62 for the April-June quarter of 2026, down from Tk 6.51 in the same quarter last year. For the January-June period, EPS was Tk 10.52, compared with Tk 11.21 during the corresponding period of 2025. The company's net operating cash flow per share (NOCFPS) came down to Tk 22.27 for the first half of 2026, against Tk 26.94 in the same period last year, marking a 17.3 percent decline. Grameenphone attributed the drop mainly to higher payments made to suppliers during the current period. Net asset value (NAV) per share was recorded at Tk 41.51 as of June 30, 2026, slightly lower than Tk 42.15 a year earlier. Following the corporate declaration, there will be no price limit on the trading of Grameenphone shares on the DSE on Wednesday.

A 67-million-year-old Tyrannosaurus rex fossil has been sold for £37.4 million (about $50.1 million) at a Sotheby's auction in New York, setting a new record as the most expensive dinosaur fossil ever sold. The fossil, affectionately named Gus, stands more than 12 feet (4 metres) tall. Sotheby's said more than 60% of its bones were recovered, making it one of the most complete T. rex specimens ever discovered. The identity of the winning bidder at Tuesday's auction has not been revealed. Gus was discovered in 2021 on a remote ranch in the US state of South Dakota. "This result has been years in the making," said Cassandra Hatton, Sotheby's worldwide head of science and natural history. "Gus is not only an exceptional discovery but also a specimen that has been carefully excavated, documented, prepared and preserved," she said. The sale broke the previous record set by the stegosaurus fossil Apex, which was sold in 2024. Gus is also the first dinosaur fossil to sell for more than $50 million. Some scientists told the BBC that the record-breaking sale could signal a new era of fossil collecting by ultra-wealthy buyers. Hatton said the high price reflects the years of work and resources needed to recover and prepare the fossil. The excavation took place over three summers between 2021 and 2023, when the frozen ground had thawed enough for digging. It then took another three years in the laboratory to clean, study and assemble the skeleton. Researchers found bite marks on the skull and signs that several broken ribs had healed while the dinosaur was still alive, suggesting it may have been injured while scavenging or fighting with other dinosaurs. Although the buyer has not yet been identified, Gus may still be displayed for the public in the future. The previous record-holder, Apex, was loaned to the American Museum of Natural History for four years by its billionaire owner, Kenneth Griffin. As a result, despite its record-breaking sale, Gus could eventually be exhibited in a museum.

The maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to hoist local cautionary signal No 3 as a low-pressure area has formed over Northwest Bay and adjoining North Odisha-West Bengal coast. Under its influence, squally weather may affect the Maritime Ports, North Bay and adjoining Coastal areas of Bangladesh, said a Met office bulletin on Wednesday. All fishing boats and trawlers over North Bay have been advised to come close to the coast and proceed with caution till further notice.

Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, has received a Daytime Emmy nomination for her Netflix lifestyle series With Love, Meghan. The former actor, who married Britain's Prince Harry in 2018, was nominated on Tuesday in the Outstanding Lifestyle Program category. Her show will compete with A Different Breed, George to the Rescue, The Motherhood and The Wizard of Paws. The winners of the 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be announced on Oct. 30 at the Hollywood Palladium. With Love, Meghan features cooking, entertaining and gardening segments, along with appearances by celebrities including Chrissy Teigen and Mindy Kaling. Prince Harry also made a guest appearance. The series ran for two seasons in 2025 and also released a holiday special. Before joining the British royal family, Meghan—then known as Meghan Markle—played Rachel Zane in the legal drama Suits from 2011 to 2018. She left the show before marrying Prince Harry. CBS led all networks with 48 Daytime Emmy nominations. The nominees for Daytime Drama Series are Beyond the Gates, Days of Our Lives, General Hospital and The Young and the Restless. The nominees for Lead Actress in a Daytime Drama Series are Stacy Haiduk (Days of Our Lives), Karla Mosley (Beyond the Gates), Michelle Stafford (The Young and the Restless), Heather Tom (The Bold and the Beautiful) and Tamara Tunie (Beyond the Gates). For Lead Actor in a Daytime Drama Series, the nominees are Eric Braeden (The Young and the Restless), Steve Burton (General Hospital), Scott Clifton (The Bold and the Beautiful), Thorsten Kaye (The Bold and the Beautiful) and Christian Jules Le Blanc (The Young and the Restless). The nominees for Daytime Talk Series are 3rd Hour of Today, The Drew Barrymore Show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, Live with Kelly and Mark, TODAY with Jenna & Friends and The View. Kelly Clarkson was also nominated for Daytime Talk Series Host. Other nominees include Joy Behar, Whoopi Goldberg, Alyssa Farah Griffin, Sara Haines, Sunny Hostin and Ana Navarro of The View, along with Tamron Hall, Jennifer Hudson and Sherri Shepherd. Clarkson is set to end her seven-season run this fall, while Sherri was canceled in May after four seasons. Meanwhile, ABC's The View is facing renewed scrutiny from federal regulators, who want to revisit whether the program should be subject to equal-time broadcasting rules.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) on Wednesday said a low-pressure area has formed over the Northwest Bay and adjoining North Odisha-West Bengal coast, raising the likelihood of rains again across the country. According to the Met Office, the axis of the monsoon trough extends through Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, the centre of the low-pressure area and Assam, passing across the southern part of Bangladesh. The monsoon is currently fairly active over Bangladesh and strong over the North Bay, the BMD said. In its forecast commencing from 9:00am Wednesday, the Met Office said light to moderate rain likely to occur at many places over Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh & Sylhet divisions and few places over Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal & Chattogram divisions. Moderately heavy to heavy rainfall is expected at places across the country, according to the forecast. The BMD also said both day and night temperatures may rise slightly across the country over the next 24 hours.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Wednesday urged schoolchildren to plant at least one tree every year and take care of it, saying the younger generation must lead the effort to build a greener and healthier Bangladesh. "Wherever you think a tree can be planted—whether at your school or near your home—I request every one of you to plant at least one tree every year," he said after inaugurating a nationwide tree plantation programme at government primary schools by planting a sapling at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Agargaon. Tarique Rahman inaugurated the nationwide tree plantation programme as part of the ‘Green School’ initiative. Addressing students and teachers connected virtually from schools across the country, the Prime Minister encouraged children not only to plant trees but also to learn about them. He asked students to find out what species of tree they have planted, how long it would live, how much oxygen it would produce and how it benefit people by using the internet and other learning resources. "You will learn something new about a tree every year. And when the trees grow, you will enjoy their shade at school after playing with your friends or the cool breeze around your home," Tarique said.  

Bangladesh is embarking on one of the most ambitious overhauls of its social protection system, seeking to replace fragmented welfare programmes with a digitally driven, citizen-centric model that promises to make benefits more transparent, targeted and accessible. Dynamic Social Registry (DSR), a nationwide digital platform being implemented by the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Social Welfare, is designed to allow citizens to apply for social protection benefits from anywhere in the country while enabling the government to identify eligible recipients through data-driven poverty assessments, according to the budget document. The initiative signals a shift from traditional, programme-based welfare administration towards an integrated digital ecosystem where social protection is linked to verified household data, direct benefit transfers and continuous updating of beneficiaries’ socioeconomic conditions. A move away from fragmented welfare The government acknowledges that Bangladesh’s existing social protection framework—comprising more than 90 separate programmes—has struggled with overlapping benefits, weak coordination and exclusion of many deserving households. According to the budget document, the current system is “neither sufficiently responsive to contemporary needs nor sustainable in the long term.” The DSR is intended to address these weaknesses by creating a unified database capable of scientifically assessing poverty and determining eligibility across different social programmes. Officials said this will reduce duplication, improve targeting and ensure that government resources reach those who need them most. Building on a digital foundation The reform builds upon the Single Registry System, already introduced by the Finance Division to streamline beneficiary management. Under the system, social protection payments are transferred directly into beneficiaries’ mobile financial service or bank accounts through the Government-to-Person (G2P) payment mechanism. The registry currently contains information on around 4 crore beneficiaries and can verify another 2 crore citizens. According to the budget document, the digital registry has already improved transparency in beneficiary selection, strengthened account verification and eliminated duplication in fund disbursement. A life-cycle approach The budget outlines plans for a life-cycle approach to social protection, bringing every citizen—from birth through old age—under a comprehensive support framework. Officials say the strategy aims not only to provide financial assistance but also to promote economic empowerment and self-reliance while ensuring that vulnerable groups remain protected during different stages of life. The document also reiterates the constitutional commitment to ensuring food, clothing, shelter and employment for every citizen, while acknowledging that persistent poverty and unequal distribution of resources continue to drive inequality. Family Card Programme at the centre The government’s flagship initiative is the Family Card Programme which represents a significant departure from individual-based welfare schemes. Built on the philosophy that “the family, not the individual, is the fundamental unit of development,” the programme seeks to identify poor households and provide them with integrated support covering food security, healthcare, education and livelihood opportunities. Unlike many existing programmes, the Family Card is issued in the name of the mother or female head of household, a move aimed at strengthening women’s financial and social position within families. Each beneficiary household receives Tk 2,500 per month directly through the G2P payment system—almost three times higher than allowances under many existing safety-net programmes. The government is also incorporating household family-tree information into the database, creating a more comprehensive digital record of beneficiaries. Ultimately, authorities plan to transform the Family Card into a Universal Social ID Card for every citizen by 2030, replacing the allowance-based components of many existing social protection programmes. During the pilot phase, 60,044 female heads of households have been receiving benefits. In the coming fiscal year, the government plans to issue Family Cards to 41 lakh women, backed by a proposed allocation of Tk 14,500 crore. Expanded benefits across programmes Alongside structural reforms, the government has proposed expanding several existing social safety programmes. The Old Age Allowance Programme will add 100,000 beneficiaries, increasing total coverage to 62 lakh, while the monthly allowance will rise from Tk 650 to Tk 700. The Widow and Destitute Women Allowance Programme will also expand by 100,000 beneficiaries to 30 lakh, with monthly payments increasing to Tk 700. Under the Disability Allowance Programme, beneficiary numbers will increase from 34.5 lakh to 38 lakh, while monthly payments will rise from Tk 900 to Tk 1,000. The government also plans to expand educational support for students with disabilities by increasing beneficiaries from 81,000 to 100,000 and raising stipend rates across all education levels. Support for pregnant women and newborns will continue through the Mother and Child Assistance Programme, with beneficiaries increasing to nearly 19 lakh and an allocation of Tk 1,944.70 crore proposed for the next fiscal year. Financial assistance for patients suffering from cancer and five other chronic diseases will also be strengthened, with one-time grants doubling from Tk 50,000 to Tk 100,000. Pension and legal reforms The budget also proposes measures to improve the Universal Pension Scheme, including better management of pension funds and allowing participants to withdraw 30 percent of accumulated savings as a one-time gratuity. In addition, the government plans to establish a state-funded welfare programme for destitute orphan children and amend weaknesses in the Parents’ Maintenance Act, 2013 to improve its implementation. Challenges ahead While the reform agenda is among the most comprehensive attempts to modernise Bangladesh’s social protection architecture, successful implementation will depend on several factors. Maintaining accurate and regularly updated household data, ensuring digital access in remote areas, protecting personal information and coordinating among multiple ministries will all be critical to achieving the programme’s objectives. There will also be pressure to ensure that genuinely poor households are not excluded during the transition from existing schemes to a unified digital system.

Christopher Nolan has long dreamed of making films for IMAX screens. The Oscar-winning director of Oppenheimer, Inception and The Dark Knight trilogy says his fascination began in childhood after watching nature documentaries at Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry. He often wondered what it would be like to create a major Hollywood film for that format. That dream has now become reality with The Odyssey, the first feature film shot entirely on IMAX film. A milestone for IMAX filmmaking Nolan said the project became possible after years of technical improvements. Earlier IMAX cameras were too loud for dialogue-heavy scenes, but following Oppenheimer, filmmakers worked with IMAX to develop a special camera enclosure, known as "the blimp," that reduced the noise. The new camera system, named The Keighley after longtime IMAX executives Patricia and David Keighley, is dedicated to David Keighley, who died three weeks after completing his work on The Odyssey. The new setup also brought challenges. The camera weighed about 300 pounds once enclosed, film had to be reloaded every two-and-a-half to three minutes, and a mirror system had to be created so actors could see one another around the large camera during filming. Despite the difficulties, Nolan said the goal was to give audiences "something special." "They're looking for something new and exciting, and that's what we're trying to offer," he said. Many viewing options As The Odyssey opens in theatres on Friday, moviegoers can choose from several formats, including IMAX 70mm, standard 70mm, IMAX digital, 35mm, Dolby Cinema and other premium large-format screens. Speaking to The Associated Press in 2023, Nolan explained why he prefers certain formats and why he believes seeing films in cinemas offers an experience that cannot be matched at home. "If they can find an IMAX screen to see the film on, that's great," Nolan said. "It really is just a great way of giving people an experience that they can't possibly get in the home." Why IMAX 70mm stands out Nolan's previous films — Dunkirk, Tenet and Oppenheimer — were shot using large-format film, combining IMAX 65mm and Panavision 65mm, before being projected in 70mm. He said IMAX 70mm offers unmatched sharpness, clarity and depth, making viewers feel immersed in the film without the need for 3D glasses. "The screen disappears," Nolan said, explaining that the large image fills the audience's field of vision and creates a highly immersive experience. He first used IMAX cameras in The Dark Knight, which opened with an IMAX 70mm aerial shot. "Every time we screened that, we would get a gasp," he recalled. "It was something no one had seen before." Technically, IMAX film delivers nearly 10 times the resolution of a traditional 35mm projector. Each frame contains roughly 18,000 pixels of detail, compared with 1,920 pixels on a standard home HD display. Why shoot on 65mm but project in 70mm? Nolan explained that the extra 5mm originally provided space for the soundtrack on film prints. Today, with digital sound, that space remains as part of the traditional format and serves as a visual enhancement. Framing for different screens Nolan said shooting with IMAX requires careful planning because different cinemas use different screen shapes, known as aspect ratios. His team uses a technique called "center punching the action" to ensure key visual elements remain visible across all formats. Cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema also monitors framing for various screen sizes while filming. On giant IMAX 1.43:1 screens, viewers see the full image. In other formats, including 35mm, digital and CinemaScope, parts of the top and bottom are cropped. Nolan said this does not compromise the artistic composition of the film. Nolan's preferred formats For Nolan, IMAX 70mm remains the best way to experience a movie. However, such screenings are rare, with only 32 theatres in the United States and Canada showing films in that format. He also praised standard 70mm prints, calling them "a fabulous presentation." "The two formats are sort of different and I love them both," he said. Digital formats still offer a strong experience Most audiences will watch The Odyssey in digital formats, including IMAX digital, laser projection and other premium large-format systems such as Regal RPX, Cinemark XD and Cineplex UltraAVX. Nolan said his team spends months preparing digital versions from the original IMAX film to ensure the highest possible image quality across all screens. He also praised modern laser projectors used in IMAX and Dolby Cinema theatres for their excellent picture quality and contrast. According to Nolan, IMAX's influence over the past two to three decades has encouraged cinemas to improve picture and sound quality, benefiting both filmmakers and audiences. Nolan's favourite seats When it comes to choosing a seat, Nolan says it depends on the type of theatre. For CinemaScope screens, he prefers sitting near the front, around the middle of the third row. For large IMAX 1.43:1 theatres, he recommends sitting slightly behind the centre of the auditorium to get the best overall view.  

Bangladesh Bank has made prior approval from the Chief Inspector of Boilers mandatory for the import of boilers and boiler components, in line with a directive from the Ministry of Industries. The central bank's Foreign Exchange Policy Department issued a notification on Tuesday, instructing authorised dealer (AD) branches of all banks engaged in foreign exchange transactions to comply with the new requirement. The notification said the fresh directive follows a memo issued by the Boiler Wing of the Ministry of Industries on June 28, 2026, and has been made effective for all boiler and boiler component imports accordingly. According to the notification, boiler manufacturers must complete construction within a maximum of 12 months from the date of drawing and design approval. Manufacturers must also hand over all documents and certificates required for registration to the buying entity after supply or sale of a boiler, and must inform the Chief Inspector of Boilers in writing of the buyer's name and address. The directive further requires that occupational health and safety of factory workers be ensured, with all relevant provisions of existing labour law to be followed. Under the new instructions, prior approval from the Chief Inspector of Boilers must be obtained through a prescribed application form before any import of boilers or boiler components. On receipt of an application, a designated officer will verify the necessary documents and submit a report to the Chief Inspector, who will grant or reject the import approval after reviewing the report. If approved, the Deputy Chief Inspector of Boilers will issue the approval letter. If an application is rejected, the applicant must be informed in writing of the reasons within seven working days, after which they may reapply upon rectifying the deficiencies and paying the requisite fee. The notification added that the concerned authority may also inspect a manufacturer's factory or production process, if required, to ensure the quality of boilers.

President Donald Trump is set to speak at a defense technology summit at the U.S. Army War College on Wednesday, where he is expected to highlight major investments in military technology as the recent conflict with Iran has significantly reduced U.S. stockpiles of key missiles. The summit, held in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, is being organized by Republican Senator David McCormick. It has brought together top military, intelligence and business leaders, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine, Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, CIA Director John Ratcliffe and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz. The White House said the event aims to bring together senior defense officials and leading global investors to discuss national security priorities and explore investment opportunities in the defense sector. Among those attending are JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon, Blackstone President Jon Gray, Lockheed Martin CEO Jim Taiclet, General Dynamics CEO Phebe Novakovic, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, SpaceX director Antonio Gracias and Palantir Chief Technology Officer Shyam Sankar. Trump has made frequent visits to Pennsylvania, a key political battleground, including a trip last month to a Mack Trucks factory near Allentown to support Republican Congressman Ryan Mackenzie's reelection campaign. Although McCormick is not facing reelection this year, Republicans are increasingly concerned about the political impact of the Iran conflict, the continuing high cost of living and Trump's low approval ratings as they seek to retain control of Congress in November's midterm elections. Trump spoke at a similar summit hosted by McCormick in Pittsburgh last year, where the senator announced $90 billion in pledged investments for energy technology and robotics projects across Pennsylvania. This year's summit began on Tuesday. Ahead of Trump's address, Pennsylvania-based artificial intelligence company ZeroEyes announced plans to invest $10 million in AI and machine learning research and development. Pittsburgh-based Gecko Robotics also announced plans to open a new 10,000-square-foot manufacturing facility to expand the use of robotics in defense production and strengthen the country's defense industrial base. The summit comes as concerns grow over U.S. weapons supplies. A report released in May found that defense contractors may need at least three years to rebuild stockpiles of Tomahawk cruise missiles, Patriot air defense missiles and THAAD interceptors, which have been heavily used in military operations, including recent strikes on Iran. The shrinking inventory has raised concerns that the U.S. could face shortages if a future conflict breaks out with China. China has said it wants its military to be capable of taking Taiwan by force, if necessary, by 2027, although experts view that timeline as an ambition rather than a fixed deadline. During Trump's recent visit to Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping warned that poor handling of U.S.-Taiwan relations could increase tensions and potentially lead to direct conflict between the two countries. Trump has also pledged to allow Ukraine to produce Patriot air defense systems under license, although experts say it could take years before such production becomes operational. To strengthen U.S. military capabilities, Trump has proposed a record $1.5 trillion defense budget for 2027. However, the spending package remains stalled in Congress, and even if approved, expanding production capacity for advanced weapons would take considerable time. Jake Loosararian, co-founder and CEO of Gecko Robotics, said U.S. defense manufacturers need to significantly strengthen supply chains to speed up production of advanced military technologies. "President Trump uniquely understands the importance of pragmatic impact today," Loosararian said. "He also understands big, beautiful things for tomorrow."

The US House of Representatives on Tuesday passed a bill that would make daylight saving time permanent, ending the twice-yearly clock changes if it becomes law. The measure, known as the "Sunshine Protection Act," was approved by a 308-117 vote. It now heads to the Senate, where its prospects remain uncertain. If passed there, it would require President Donald Trump's signature to become law. Daylight saving time is observed between spring and fall, when clocks in most parts of the United States are set one hour ahead of standard time. Under the bill, states would still have the option to opt out if their legislatures act before the measure takes effect. Supporters, including the White House, said making daylight saving time permanent would provide more daylight during the hours when most Americans are active. Republican Rep. Gus Bilirakis of Florida said Americans are ready to "ditch the switch," arguing that changing clocks twice a year creates unnecessary disruption. He said the change would give families more evening daylight to spend outdoors while also benefiting local businesses. "In my home state of Florida, where tourism is a cornerstone of our economy, having more predictable daylight hours is a practical improvement that benefits workers, businesses and visitors alike," Bilirakis said. Opponents argued that permanent daylight saving time would result in darker winter mornings, potentially creating safety risks for children waiting for school buses and for commuters travelling to work before sunrise. Democratic Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon of Pennsylvania said millions of Americans would begin their winter mornings in complete darkness, with sunrise coming well after many people had already left home. Democratic Rep. Jim McGovern of Massachusetts said he supports the proposal but questioned whether Congress should be prioritising it while many Americans continue to struggle with rising housing, food, utility and healthcare costs. A 2025 poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that if Americans had to choose one system year-round, 56% preferred permanent daylight saving time, which provides more evening daylight but less morning light. About four in 10 respondents favoured permanent standard time, offering more morning daylight and earlier sunsets. Ahead of the House vote, the White House described the Sunshine Protection Act as a popular and common-sense reform, saying President Trump would be advised to sign the bill if it reaches his desk. Congress has debated the benefits and drawbacks of daylight saving time for decades since it was first introduced as a wartime measure in 1942. The Senate approved a similar bill four years ago, but it failed to advance in the House.

More than five decades after Bangladesh’s independence, thousands of Extra Departmental (ED) employees of the government postal service are still waiting for official recognition as departmental staff. Their long-standing grievances have now spilled over into a nationwide strike, disrupting mail delivery and causing inconvenience for customers awaiting important documents. Since July 6, ED employees across the country, including around 300 workers in Jhenaidah district, have been observing an indefinite work stoppage, demanding higher pay and recognition as regular departmental employees. The protest has effectively crippled operations at branch post offices, particularly in rural areas where ED workers form the backbone of postal services. As part of their movement, the employees have submitted memorandums addressed to the Prime Minister through Deputy Commissioners, Superintendents of Police and Upazila Nirbahi Officers (UNOs), warning that the strike will continue until their demands are met. According to the protesters, nearly 23,021 ED employees are serving at 8,543 branch post offices across Bangladesh including around 300 workers at 104 branch post offices in Jhenaidah. “We have been victims of discrimination for years,” said Ripon Hossain, postmaster of Gopalpur Branch Post Office and one of the protesters. He said the then government had promised to increase their allowances in 2018 following earlier protests, but the commitment has remained unfulfilled even after eight years. “We do not receive festival allowances or Eid bonuses either. With today’s cost of living, it is impossible to support a family on such meagre earnings,” he said. Currently, an ED branch postmaster receives a monthly allowance of Tk 4,460, while EDDA peons receive Tk 4,354, EDMC runners Tk 4,177 and ED night guards only Tk 4,000. The prolonged strike has left customers struggling to access postal services. Mizanur Rahman, who visited the post office to collect important employment-related documents, said he had been returning for several days without success. “I was told the employees are on strike and no services are being provided. If my documents do not arrive on time, I could face serious problems,” he said. Postal authorities acknowledged that the strike has severely affected service delivery. Riazul Islam, Postmaster of Jhenaidah Head Post Office, said postal services in rural areas have been disrupted because of the work stoppage. “We are trying to ensure the delivery of highly urgent documents such as land records, appointment letters and court papers through alternative arrangements wherever possible,” he said. He added that higher authorities are aware of the hardships faced by ED employees and that the issue is now awaiting a policy decision at the central level.

Dhaka ranked 6th among the world's most polluted cities on Wednesday morning, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 137 at 9:05 am. According to the AQI scale, the city's air quality was classified as 'Unhealthy for Sensitive Group', poses minor health risks to vulnerable people. Kinshasa in DR Congo topped the global pollution list with an AQI score of 178, followed by Medan in Indonesia with 158 and Doha in Qatar with 157. According to AQI standards, a reading between 101 and 150 is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, 151 to 200 ‘unhealthy’, 201 to 300 ‘very unhealthy’, while levels above 301 are deemed ‘hazardous’, posing serious health risks. The AQI, which provides daily updates on air quality, indicates how clean or polluted the air is and highlights potential health impacts.In Bangladesh, the AQI is calculated based on five major pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. Dhaka has long struggled with air pollution, with air quality typically worsening in winter and improving during the monsoon season. The World Health Organization estimates that air pollution causes around seven million deaths globally each year, mainly due to stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer and acute respiratory infections.

Goalkeeper Unai Simón delivered another impressive performance as Spain defeated France 2-0 in the World Cup semifinals on Tuesday, reaching the final while recording a tournament-record sixth clean sheet. One of Simón's biggest moments came late in the match when he rushed off his line to beat France captain Kylian Mbappé to a loose ball as Les Bleus searched desperately for a goal. After heading the ball clear, Simón briefly found himself out of position with France forward Desire Doue chasing the rebound. The Spanish goalkeeper sprinted back, turned his body toward the play and made a crucial no-hands deflection near the edge of the area before recovering the ball to preserve Spain's lead. Spain advanced to the World Cup final for only the second time in its history, 16 years after winning its only previous title. The team will play either defending champion Argentina or England in Sunday's final. The latest shutout came against FIFA's top-ranked side. Mbappé entered the match with 20 goals in 20 World Cup appearances and had won the Golden Boot in 2022. His eight goals in this year's tournament had matched Argentina great Lionel Messi's tournament-leading tally of 21 World Cup goals. "We are very happy with the work the team has done. We knew it would be a very difficult game against spectacular players, but I think we have them too," Spain defender Pau Cubarsi said. "We are a great family. We helped each other for 90 minutes and pressed like never before." Mbappé managed only three shots during the match, none of them on target, as France failed to create any clear scoring opportunities. The defeat also denied France the chance to become only the third nation to reach three consecutive World Cup finals. "Spain defended very well. I've watched all of their matches and today they did it exceptionally well," France coach Didier Deschamps said. "They closed all the spaces and we also made technical mistakes. It's difficult to create chances when your technical level is below standard." The only goal Simón has conceded in this tournament came in the 41st minute of Spain's 2-1 quarterfinal victory over Belgium, ending his World Cup record streak of 650 scoreless minutes. Tuesday's semifinal was played at the home of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys, where Spain had defeated Portugal 1-0 in the round of 16 eight days earlier to record its sixth consecutive World Cup match without conceding a goal. In that game, Simón denied two attempts from 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, who was playing in the final World Cup of his career. Spain's clean-sheet streak surpassed the previous World Cup record shared by Italy (1990) and Switzerland (2006-10). The run began with a goalless draw against Morocco in the 2022 round of 16, when Spain was eliminated in a penalty shootout, and also included a surprise scoreless draw against Cape Verde in this year's tournament. Simón had broken the previous record of 517 consecutive scoreless minutes during Spain's 3-0 victory over Austria at the start of the knockout stage.

Lamine Yamal did not find the net, but the teenage star's quick thinking proved crucial as Spain defeated France 2-0 in the World Cup semifinals on Tuesday to book a place in the final. Yamal spotted an opportunity when France defender Lucas Digne struggled to clear a loose ball inside his own penalty area. As Digne attempted to kick the ball away without noticing the Spain forward, he struck Yamal's thigh, leading to a penalty that put Spain ahead for good. The 19-year-old Barcelona winger has scored just once during Spain's run to the World Cup final, but his intelligent play created the breakthrough that helped La Roja secure a showdown in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Sunday against either defending champion Argentina or England. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente had said before the match — played a day after Yamal's 19th birthday — that the youngster contributes much more than goals. Yamal's performance against France highlighted that point. "This team interprets every moment of the game perfectly," de la Fuente said through a translator after Spain advanced to the final. Although Yamal earned the penalty, Mikel Oyarzabal took the spot kick and calmly fired it into the top-right corner in the 22nd minute for his tournament-leading fifth goal. Yamal, who did not speak to reporters after the match, still has only one goal and no assists in the tournament. However, Spain may not have taken a first-half lead against a France side widely considered one of the favourites without his decisive contribution. "Everyone is moving in the same direction with the same idea and understands what is important," Oyarzabal said. "In the end, everyone gives what they can for the benefit of the team." Before the semifinal, de la Fuente had suggested Yamal's big scoring moment was approaching. However, the teenager has consistently said he is more focused on helping the team than on individual statistics. Despite sharing Barcelona's scoring lead with Spain teammate Ferrán Torres last season with 16 goals, Yamal said he never feels pressure to score. "I play the way I am, and I will never play better or worse than I really am," Yamal said on Monday. "I always give everything for the team, and when you know you've done that, you don't feel pressure." That attitude paid off in one of the tournament's biggest matches, as Yamal's awareness helped send Spain into the World Cup final.

The United States early Wednesday reimposed a blockade on Iranian ports following Tehran's attacks on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, triggering fresh strikes on countries hosting American forces as an interim peace deal continued to unravel. Days of retaliatory attacks by Iran and the United States, along with both sides' efforts to assert control over the strategic waterway through which about one-fifth of the world's oil and natural gas passes during peacetime, have raised fears of a return to full-scale war in the Middle East. The US first imposed the blockade in mid-April and lifted it in mid-June, a day after signing an interim agreement that allowed a 60-day period for negotiations on issues including Iran's nuclear programme. However, talks have stalled as fighting around the Strait of Hormuz has intensified. When US President Donald Trump announced the return of the blockade on Monday, he also proposed imposing a 20% fee on ships passing through the strait. Hours later, however, he dropped the plan, saying Gulf allies had requested an alternative approach. Fresh attacks after blockade resumes Ahead of reimposing the blockade, the US military launched another wave of strikes, according to US Central Command. Missile alerts were issued in Bahrain and Kuwait early Wednesday as Iranian missiles targeted the two countries, continuing a pattern of daily attacks that has further strained the fragile ceasefire. Hours after the blockade was reinstated, Iranian state media reported an exchange of fire in the Strait of Hormuz without providing further details. Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command, said Iran had launched dozens of missiles and drones at neighbouring Gulf Arab countries. "US forces are holding Iran accountable for unwarranted aggression that continues to endanger innocent lives," Cooper said. The US currently has at least 19 warships in the Arabian Sea, including two aircraft carriers and an amphibious assault ship carrying more than 1,000 Marines. Central Command also said hundreds of military aircraft are operating across the Middle East. Since the war between the US, Israel and Iran began on Feb. 28, Tehran has repeatedly targeted and threatened commercial vessels, disrupting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and driving up global prices for oil, fertiliser and other goods. More recently, Iran has attacked ships travelling through a US-monitored shipping route near Oman, outside Tehran's control, fuelling the latest escalation. The US has warned it could reopen the strait by force, although experts say such an operation would require a much larger military deployment. Iran's ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, accused Washington of being the aggressor. "The US is the aggressor, not the victim," he wrote to the UN chief, according to Iran's state-run IRNA news agency. Trump drops shipping fee proposal Trump said Tuesday that Gulf leaders had urged him to replace the proposed shipping fees with increased investments in the United States. "They said we'd love to do it a different way. We'd love to invest in the United States with billions and billions of dollars," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. He said he preferred that arrangement because "I don't think anybody should be able to charge a fee for the strait." It remains unclear whether the proposed investments would be in addition to commitments announced during Trump's visit to the region last year. Trump's proposal to charge ships for using the strait would have marked a major shift from longstanding US policy supporting free navigation through the waterway. In an interview with Fox News on Tuesday night, Trump warned that additional US strikes on Iran would continue over the next two days, with bridges and power plants among possible future targets unless negotiations resumed. "You better make a deal, or you're not going to have anything left," he said. Strikes continue across the region US Central Command said it carried out strikes at several locations in Iran on Tuesday. Iranian authorities acknowledged the attacks but did not provide an overall assessment of casualties or damage. Hours after the US announced the end of its operations, Iran's Bushehr city on the Persian Gulf was struck at four locations, according to IRNA. Explosions were also reported in Ahvaz in southwestern Iran and the southern port city of Bandar Abbas. The attacks have raised speculation that Gulf Arab states may be responding militarily to Iran without publicly acknowledging it. Kuwait separately said an Iranian strike wounded four members of its navy on Tuesday and set a building on fire. Interim peace deal under pressure Under the interim agreement, Iran pledged to allow free passage through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days. However, the deal did not address what would happen afterward. Tehran maintains it has the right to regulate shipping through the strait and potentially charge fees, a position disputed by Washington. Brent crude oil briefly rose above $87 a barrel on Tuesday before falling to around $78 after Trump withdrew his shipping fee proposal. Meanwhile, regional mediators are continuing efforts to bring the United States and Iran back to the negotiating table. Two regional officials, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive diplomatic efforts, said Pakistan-led mediation is working around the clock to restore the ceasefire.

India on Tuesday said there has been no change in its position regarding former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and stressed that any extradition is a legal issue. "Now, on this particular issue, there is no change in our approach to the matter. Any extradition matter is a legal issue, as you very well know, and it will be dealt with accordingly," Spokesperson for the Indian Ministry of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal told reporters in New Delhi during a regular briefing. He made the remarks when a journalist drew his attention to Hasina's recent interview, where she expressed her desire to return to Bangladesh in December this year. Responding to a question on development projects in Bangladesh, the MEA spokesperson said the development cooperation programme that they have with Bangladesh is something that is done through mutual consultations, and that continues to be the case. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Tuesday told Parliament that the government wants Hasina to be extradited to Bangladesh under the existing extradition agreement, saying she will be arrested immediately upon her return as she has already been convicted in several cases. Referring to the legal stance, he said Sheikh Hasina will have no opportunity to surrender as she is already a convicted person. "If she returns, she will be arrested immediately, and the verdicts will be executed. If there is any scope for appeal, that will be decided by the court," Salahuddin said.

A joint U.S.-Russian crew arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) on Tuesday, hours after launching from the Russia-leased Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. NASA astronaut Anil Menon and Russian cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina lifted off as scheduled aboard the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft at 7:47 pm local time (10:47 am EDT, 1447 GMT) for an eight-month mission aboard the orbiting laboratory. The Soyuz spacecraft docked automatically with the ISS about three hours after launch. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman attended the launch, marking the first visit by a NASA chief to Baikonur in eight years. The visit underscored continued cooperation between Washington and Moscow in space despite tensions over Russia's military action in Ukraine. Ahead of the launch, Isaacman met Roscosmos chief Dmitry Bakanov. During a meeting with the crew on Monday, he thanked the Russian space agency for its efforts in preparing the mission, saying the work carried out over the past several months reflected the professionalism and dedication of everyone involved. Isaacman also met Russian Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. According to Manturov's office, the two discussed future cooperation on the International Space Station and other space projects. The mission marks Menon's first journey into space, while Dubrov and Kikina are each making their second spaceflight. The three newcomers will join NASA astronauts Jessica Meir, Jack Hathaway and Chris Williams, European Space Agency astronaut Sophie Adenot, and Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergei Kud-Sverchkov, Sergei Mikaev and Andrei Fedyaev aboard the station. Although the United States and Russia were fierce rivals during the Cold War space race, they have continued to cooperate on the ISS and other space projects. That partnership has come under strain since Russia launched its military operation in Ukraine in 2022, but both countries have maintained crew exchange missions using each other's spacecraft. However, broader cooperation has stalled. Plans for possible Russian participation in NASA's Artemis lunar exploration programme have been shelved, while Roscosmos has expanded cooperation with China on a planned lunar mission as Russia has become increasingly dependent on Beijing for technology imports and energy exports amid Western sanctions.

State Minister for Planning Md Zonayed Abdur Rahim Saki has called for increased grants, concessional financing, technology transfer and stronger international partnerships to accelerate implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He made the call while delivering Bangladesh’s national statement at the General Debate of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) 2026 at United Nations Headquarters in New York, according to a press release issued by the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the UN on Tuesday. The state minister highlighted the government’s Recovery, Restoration and Reconstruction (3R) strategy to restore economic stability and strengthen institutions following the February 2026 election. He also outlined key national initiatives, including increased public investment in education and health, excavation of 20,000 kilometres of rivers and canals, plantation of 25 crore saplings, expanding renewable energy and green industries, developing a carbon market, strengthening domestic resource mobilisation, introducing a universal life-cycle-based social protection programme and launching the Farmers’ Card to enhance rural livelihoods, food security and agricultural productivity. Reaffirming Bangladesh’s commitment to sustainable development, Saki said the government is pursuing key reforms and investments to advance inclusive and sustainable development. He emphasised the need for stronger global partnerships to accelerate implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

Police arrested 13 leaders and activists of Awami League, which faces a ban on its activities, during a procession on the Dhaka-Aricha highway in Savar on Tuesday. According to police, around 35-40 leaders and activists of Awami League and its associate bodies, carrying banners and sticks, brought out a procession in the Bhanga Bridge area on the highway around 1:00pm when a routine police patrol spotted them. Police chased the group and managed to arrest 13 of them, while others escaped by swimming across a nearby water body, police said. Sub-Inspector Anwar Hossain of Savar Model Police Station said most of those arrested are residents of Savar municipality. The arrestees were identified as Sagar Molla, Mohammad Ali, Raju Ahmed, Olil Mia, Rajib Sarkar, Pradip Kundu, Shahid Hossain, Ratan Kumar Rajbanshi, Moksedur Rahman Sohag, Hridoy Hossain, Jibon Saha, Mokammel Hossain and Sajib Mia. Police said the former four work as drivers for rent-a-car service provider at Savar Bus Stand, while the remaining nine are leaders and activists of the Awami League and its associate organisations, said Inspector (Investigation) of Savar Model Police Station Nur Mohammad.

Kylian Mbappé was named in France's starting lineup for Tuesday's World Cup semifinal against Spain after recovering from the minor ankle injury that forced him off late in the team's quarterfinal victory over Morocco. The France captain was substituted in the 77th minute of the quarterfinal after scoring his eighth goal of the tournament. He enters the semifinal level with Argentina captain Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot. Messi, 39, holds the World Cup career scoring record with 21 goals, one more than the 20 scored by the 27-year-old Mbappé. France coach Didier Deschamps said Mbappé was physically fit after suffering what was described as a "slight" injury to his right ankle against Morocco. Mbappé is one of six French players to have started all seven of the team's World Cup matches, alongside forward Ousmane Dembele and goalkeeper Mike Maignan. For Spain, forward Mikel Merino was again named among the substitutes for the sixth time in seven matches. The versatile Arsenal midfielder scored the winning goals shortly after coming off the bench in Spain's 1-0 round-of-16 victory over Portugal and 2-1 quarterfinal win over Belgium. Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal made his sixth consecutive start for Spain, a day after celebrating his 19th birthday. He had come off the bench in Spain's opening 0-0 draw against Cape Verde, one of the tournament's surprise teams. Spain forward Nico Williams, who has been struggling with a muscle injury since the group-stage match against Uruguay, was not included in the starting lineup. He featured as a substitute in all three group-stage matches, missed the first two knockout games and returned as a late substitute in the 79th minute against Belgium.

The Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Cumilla on Tuesday shifted an HSC examination centre following widespread criticism after severe waterlogging forced examinees to wade through waist-deep water to sit Monday's examination. At an emergency press conference held at the board office, Chairman Prof Md Ahsan Parvez said the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examination scheduled for Wednesday will no longer be held at Cumilla Government Women's College. Instead, the centre has been shifted to Bhasha Soinik Ajit Guha College to ease the suffering of examinees, he said. Ahsan Parvez said the education board made every effort to conduct Monday's examination smoothly and sudden heavy rainfall in the early hours left no opportunity to suspend the examination immediately. "Our priority was to ensure that students could complete their examinations and return home safely," he said. The chairman said the Cumilla City Corporation, district administration, the education board and other stakeholders worked in coordination to facilitate the examination despite the adverse conditions. Responding to a question, he said no other examination centre under the board experienced a similar situation apart from Cumilla Government Women's College. Ahsan Parvez said the board will remain more vigilant in future and take all necessary measures to protect the interests of students should such unforeseen situations arise again. On Monday, continuous heavy rainfall caused severe waterlogging in different parts of Cumilla city. At the Cumilla Government Women's College examination centre, many HSC candidates had to wade through waist-deep water to reach the venue. The incident triggered widespread criticism from students and guardians, who blamed the authorities for poor planning and demanded the postponement of subsequent examinations. Board Secretary Prof Jahangir Alam, Controller of Examinations Prof Dr Md Shafiqul Islam, College Inspector Prof Md Shipon Mia and other senior officials were present at the press conference.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Tuesday told Parliament that the government wants former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to be extradited to Bangladesh under the existing extradition agreement, saying she will be arrested immediately upon her return as she has already been convicted in several cases. "We want her to be sent back under the extradition agreement so that she faces trial," he said, participating in a discussion on the July 2024 mass uprising in Parliament. Referring to the legal stance, Salahuddin said Sheikh Hasina will have no opportunity to surrender as she is already a convicted person. "If she returns, she will be arrested immediately, and the verdicts will be executed. If there is any scope for appeal, that will be decided by the court," he said. The discussion was initiated after National Citizen Party (NCP) lawmaker Akhter Hossen (Rangpur-4) raised a notice under Rule 68 of the Rules of Procedure seeking a discussion on the July 2024 mass uprising and the trial of those responsible for the alleged genocide committed during the movement. Five other NCP lawmakers – Abdul Hannan Masud (Noakhali-6), Abdullah Al Amin (Narayanganj-4), Md Abul Hasnat (Cumilla-4), Mahmuda Alam Mitu (Women Seat-46) and Nusrat Tabassum Joty (Women Seat-50) – signed the notice. The minister said Awami League will be tried as a political party for its involvement in crimes against humanity committed during the July uprising, as investigation now continues in this regard. To expedite the trial proceedings in cases related to crimes against humanity, he said, "If necessary, the number of tribunals, prosecutors, investigation teams and logistic support will be increased. Our foremost objective is to establish justice in this country." Citing a UN report, Salahuddin said around 1,400 people were killed during the July uprising. However, the government believes the actual number might exceed 2,000, while around 30,000 people were injured, pledging to ensure justice for all victims. He said the government has already announced that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will open the July Memorial Museum on August 5 next. The minister also said any July uprising victims requiring treatment abroad will receive priority support, while the July Foundation will continue its operations and expand services for victims and their families. He urged all political parties not to claim exclusive ownership of the July movement. "The July uprising belongs to all Bangladeshis. We should preserve its spirit without turning it into a political tool," he said, adding that future generations should learn from the events so that no government dares to adopt fascist practices again. Responding to criticism of some media outlets by the opposition leader, Salahuddin said freedom of speech and media freedom must be protected. “We will respond to criticism in the media through facts and democratic means," he said. He also stressed that the government and opposition remain united on issues relating to Bangladesh's independence and sovereignty despite political differences inside Parliament. Expressing concern over delays in the trial process, Leader of the Opposition Dr Shafiqur Rahman warned that the nation will not tolerate any procrastination in delivering justice for the July killings. "If anyone delays the trial process, I will be a complainant against them in the hereafter," he said, underscoring the need for impartiality. “The trial must take place. But at the same time, no one should face injustice in the name of justice. The trial must be fair." Criticising a section of the media, Shafiqur Rahman alleged that many media outlets had helped prolong the previous "autocratic regime." "We do not know what action has been taken against those media outlets. Rather, they have again become active in spreading narratives. Some are making statements that amount to sedition, but no attention is being paid to these issues,” he said. Referring to the referendum, the opposition leader said the people had given their verdict in favour of reforms and urged the government to positively consider and implement that public mandate. Taking part in the discussion, Law Minister Md Asaduzzaman said there will be no legal scope for Sheikh Hasina or other convicted persons to surrender voluntarily upon returning to Bangladesh. "They will be arrested the moment they enter Bangladesh," he said, adding that those who believe in the spirit of July will never allow the rehabilitation of what he termed the "fascist Awami League." Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam, State Minister Nurul Haque and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami lawmakers Mir Ahmad Bin Quasem and Rokeya Begum (Women Seat-45), also mother of martyred Jabir Ibrahim, also joined the discussion. In the notice, Akhter Hossen said the month of July is underway. In this month of 2024, a bloody mass uprising took place in Bangladesh, through which Bangladesh was freed from the long-standing misrule of the fascist regime. He said people from all walks of life participated in the movement, during which many were injured, permanently maimed and martyred. “It is important to honour the sacrifice of those people and their recognition in this Jatiya Sangsad. Simultaneously, there is a need to discuss the proper trial and punishment of those who participated in the genocide in July 2024,” said Akhter Hossen.

Prime Minister’s Adviser on Finance and Planning Dr Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir has called for stronger United Nations support to ensure Bangladesh's smooth and sustainable graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category, accelerate SDG implementation and advance the country's reform agenda. During separate meetings at UN Headquarters with UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of UN-ESCAP Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, and UNDP Assistant Secretary-General and Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific Kanni Wignaraja, Dr. Titumir emphasised Bangladesh's request for a three-year extension of the LDC graduation preparatory period to ensure macroeconomic stability, effective implementation of the 'Smooth Transition Strategy' and a sustainable, irreversible graduation. The Adviser said the government's democratic mandate had strengthened its reform agenda, with a focus on institutional reform, accountable governance and people-centred development, said a media release issued on Tuesday. He also highlighted the government's 3R Strategy - Recovery, Restoration and Reconstruction for Acceleration - as the roadmap for restoring economic stability and advancing long-term development. Li Junhua reaffirmed UN DESA's support for Bangladesh's development journey, pledged cooperation on the LDC transition process and praised the government's Universal Social  Security Protection System. Alisjahbana reaffirmed UN-ESCAP's support for Bangladesh's LDC transition, regional connectivity and climate resilience, while Wignaraja reiterated UNDP's commitment to supporting democratic governance, institutional reforms and Bangladesh's sustainable development priorities.

An air-conditioner (AC) technician died after falling from the 3rd floor of a building while repairing an AC unit on the Eskaton Road in the capital on Tuesday. The deceased was identified as Md Yamin, 20, son of late Kashem Hawlader of South Farashganj in Lalmohan upazila of Bhola. He had been living in the Ramna area of Dhaka. According to co-worker Kamal, the two were repairing an AC unit on the 3rd floor of a house in the morning when Yamin accidentally fell, leaving him seriously injured. He was first taken to a nearby hospital and later shifted to the Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), where he succumbed to his injuries around 3:00pm while undergoing treatment, said Inspector Md Faruk, in-charge of the DMCH police camp.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday abandoned plans to impose fees on ships using the Strait of Hormuz, saying Gulf nations would instead boost investment in the United States, as renewed U.S. strikes on Iran and Iranian attacks on shipping and American allies further undermined an interim peace agreement. The temporary deal had been expected to reopen the strategic waterway, a vital route for global energy supplies, while giving negotiators time to work toward a permanent settlement to the conflict. Instead, fighting has escalated again, raising concerns over the global economy and prompting new warnings for commercial airlines. The Strait of Hormuz, through which about one-fifth of the world's traded crude oil and natural gas passes during peacetime, has become the centre of the conflict. During the war, Iran effectively disrupted traffic by attacking and threatening vessels, pushing up global prices for oil, fertiliser and other commodities. More recently, Iran has targeted ships using a U.S.-supervised shipping route outside its territorial waters, triggering a series of retaliatory strikes. Washington has warned it could reopen the strait by force, although experts say such an operation would require a much larger military deployment. Trump replaces shipping fees with Gulf investment plan On Monday, Trump announced that the U.S. would reimpose a blockade on Iranian ports and charge ships fees equal to 20% of their cargo value to help cover the cost of securing the strait. However, he reversed the fee proposal a day later, while confirming that the blockade would still take effect in the coming hours. "Based on highly productive conversations with Middle East leadership, I have decided to replace the 20% United States Reimbursement Fee with Trade and Investment Deals that the various Gulf States will be making into the United States," Trump wrote on social media. He said the expected investments would be "massive," although it remains unclear whether they represent new commitments beyond those announced during his Middle East visit last year. US-Iran exchanges continue The U.S. military's Central Command said it had struck several targets in Iran, including coastal defence systems, missile and drone sites, and maritime facilities. Iran confirmed the attacks but did not immediately report casualties or damage. The U.S. military said the strikes were aimed at reducing Iran's ability to target civilians and commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran responded by launching attacks targeting Bahrain, Jordan and three tankers travelling through the strait. Kuwait's military also reported responding to an aerial attack but provided no further details. Two of the targeted tankers, linked to the United Arab Emirates, caught fire temporarily. The International Maritime Organization said the attacks on the Mombasa and Al Bahiyah killed two mariners and injured 14 others. The UAE warned it would retaliate. Dutch shipping company Stolt Tankers said one of its vessels, Stolt Magnesium, came under attack off the coast of Oman, causing a fire in its engine room. The company said all crew members were safe. Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed the Mombasa and Al Bahiyah had ignored repeated warnings. Tehran has previously targeted vessels using a shipping route near Oman that lies outside Iranian territorial waters. Hours after Washington announced it had ended its latest round of strikes, Iran's state-run IRNA news agency reported that at least four locations in the Gulf city of Bushehr had come under attack, raising speculation that Gulf Arab states may have carried out retaliatory strikes without publicly acknowledging them. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency advised airlines to avoid the airspace of Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and the Gulf of Oman, warning that the volatile military situation posed a high risk to civilian flights. Interim agreement under growing strain The renewed violence has placed the interim peace agreement under increasing pressure. The 60-day deal was intended to provide time for negotiations on a broader accord, including Iran's disputed nuclear programme and other regional issues. Trump's decision to restore the blockade further complicates those efforts. The United States had lifted a blockade imposed in mid-April as part of the temporary agreement, but the U.S. military said it would reinstate it from midnight Wednesday in Dubai. The proposed shipping fees would also have marked a major shift in longstanding U.S. policy, departing from recent assurances by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio that the strait would remain open to all vessels without tolls. Under the interim agreement, Iran agreed to allow free passage through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days, but the arrangement did not specify what would happen afterward. Tehran maintains it has the right to regulate traffic through the waterway and potentially impose charges, a position disputed by Washington. Brent crude oil briefly climbed above $87 a barrel early Tuesday, well below the nearly $120 peak seen during the height of the conflict but still high enough to fuel inflation concerns. Prices later fell to around $78 after Trump announced he was dropping the fee plan. Mediation efforts continue Regional mediators are continuing efforts to bring the United States and Iran back to the negotiating table, according to two regional officials familiar with the talks. Speaking on condition of anonymity, they said Pakistan-led mediation was working around the clock to revive the ceasefire. Meanwhile, Lebanese and Israeli delegations were scheduled to meet in Rome on Tuesday for another round of U.S.-mediated negotiations. Hezbollah entered the conflict in support of Iran shortly after the war began on Feb. 28, launching attacks on Israel that prompted an Israeli ground offensive in Lebanon. Last month, Lebanon and Israel announced a framework agreement calling for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon in exchange for Hezbollah's disarmament, but implementation has stalled. Although a ceasefire currently holds in Lebanon, uncertainty remains over whether it can survive if fighting between the United States and Iran escalates into a full-scale war once again.

A three-year-old girl was killed after being hit by a battery-run rickshaw in the Begunbari area of the capital on Tuesday. The deceased was identified as Nowrin, daughter of Md Nazim Uddin. Hailing from Dewanganj upazila of Jamalpur, the family has been living in Begunbari of Tejgaon. Nazim Uddin said he along with his daughter was crossing the road when a speeding battery-run rickshaw struck her around 5:00pm, leaving her with severe head injuries. She was first taken to a nearby hospital. As her condition worsened, she was shifted to Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), where the on-duty doctor at the emergency department declared her dead around 6:30pm. Inspector Md Faruk, in-charge of the DMCH police camp, said the body has been kept at the hospital morgue.

The Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) has approved the country's first Initial Qualified Investor Offer (IQIO), clearing footwear manufacturer Royal Footwear PLC to raise Tk 12 crore from qualified investors, in what regulators described as a landmark decision under the commission's new leadership. The approval came at the 1020th commission meeting held on Tuesday at the BSEC's Agargaon office with its Chairman Masud Khan in the chair, according to a press release. Under the IQIO, Royal Footwear PLC will issue 1.2 crore ordinary shares at a face value of Tk 10 each to qualified investors, raising a total of Tk 12 crore. Officials noted this is the first IQIO approved since Masud took charge of the newly reconstituted commission. Royal Footwear PLC is a fully export-oriented footwear manufacturer, which alongside supplying other countries, exports footwear to ROSS, a well-known US footwear company. The company will use the proceeds to repay bank loans, expand retail operations, procure raw materials, and cover IQIO-related expenses. According to the company's audited financial statements as of December 31, 2025, its net asset value (NAV) with revaluation stood at Tk 27.54 per share, while NAV without revaluation was Tk 15.74 per share. Earnings per share (EPS) for the half-year stood at Tk 0.82. Prime Bank Investment PLC is acting as issue manager for the offer, while Prime Bank Investment PLC and EC Securities Limited are serving as underwriters. In a separate decision, the commission gave consent in principle for stock exchanges to introduce Script Netting, also known as Intraday Trading, aimed at making capital market transactions faster, more efficient and modern. The system will roll out once both stock exchanges put in place the necessary safeguards and arrangements, the commission said. Separately, the commission approved a draft amendment to the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (Margin) Rules, 2025, which will soon be published in newspapers and on the commission's website for public opinion.

State Minister for Water Resources Forhad Hossain Azad on Tuesday said the flood situation in different parts of the country is gradually improving as rainfall has eased and water levels in most rivers have started receding. He expressed hope the rivers that are still flowing above the danger level will also fall below the mark within the next one or two days. The state minister made the remarks while briefing reporters after an inter-ministerial meeting on disaster management, emergency response and coordination held at the Press Information Department conference room in the capital.   Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu, Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain, Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid, State Minister for Disaster Management and Relief M Iqbal Hossain and Disaster Management and Relief Secretary Md Saidur Rahman Khan, among others, were present. Azad said unusually heavy rainfall and runoff from upstream since July 6 triggered flooding and severe waterlogging, particularly in the Chattogram division. Although Bangladesh receives an average of around 2,200 mm of rainfall annually, intense downpours within a short period caused widespread flooding and waterlogging in the region, he said. The state minister said he, along with the ministry's secretary and the director general of the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), visited Chattogram on July 12 to inspect the flood-hit areas and assess whether any ongoing water resources projects contributed to the waterlogging. Referring to the flood situation in Cox's Bazar, he said the district suffered the worst damage, with tidal water overflowing coastal embankments built in the 1960s at four locations, causing breaches.   Emergency repair work is underway at Matamuhuri, Purba Para, Purba Mehernama and Shilkhali with the involvement of local residents, Azad said. He said in some areas, residents cut embankments themselves to drain accumulated water from inside protected areas. “To prevent such incidents in future, damaged sluice gates will be reconstructed,” he added. According to the latest data available until 6:00am on Tuesday, the Kushiyara River was flowing 26 centimetres above the danger level at Fenchuganj and 6 cm above at Markuli, while the Surma River at Chhatak, the Someswari River at Kamalakanda and the Teesta River at Dalia were flowing 6cm, 13cm and 7cm above the danger level, respectively, the state minister said. "However, with rainfall decreasing, water levels in all rivers are gradually receding," he said. Azad said officials of the BWDB have been instructed to remain on duty round the clock in areas where embankments were damaged to carry out emergency repairs. He said more than 1,500 flood protection packages were undertaken in vulnerable areas as part of advance preparations for the monsoon season. Of these, around 500 have been completed while work on about 1,000 others is ongoing, the state minister said. To tackle any fresh emergency, the ministry has already supplied more than 7 lakh geo-bags, while another 6 lakh geo-bags and over 1 lakh synthetic plastic geo-bags have been kept ready, he added. "If heavy rainfall or flooding occurs again, the Ministry of Water Resources is fully prepared to protect embankments and safeguard people's lives and property," the state minister added. He said around 95 percent of the work on a drainage and water management project being implemented under the supervision of the Bangladesh Army in the Patenga area of Chattogram has already been completed. “The project is expected to be handed over to the Chattogram City Corporation by the end of this year.” Once operational, the project is expected to significantly ease Chattogram's long-standing waterlogging problem, Azad said.

Dhaka University has announced a series of programmes to commemorate the second anniversary of the historic July Mass Uprising, including the foundation stone laying of a memorial monument, the establishment of a memory corner at the Central Library, and discussions reflecting on the movement. The decisions were taken at a preparatory meeting held on Tuesday at the Professor Abdul Matin Chowdhury Virtual Classroom, chaired by Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr. A B M Obaidul Islam, according to the public relation office of the university. The meeting was attended by Pro-VC (Admin) Prof Dr. Mohammed Almujaddade Alfasane, deans of different faculties, provosts of residential halls, the university proctor, Acting Registrar, heads of offices, and representatives of the Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU) and student organizations. Participants reviewed the overall preparations for observing the anniversary and discussed plans for various commemorative activities. One of the key decisions was to lay the foundation stone of the university's proposed July Memorial Monument on August 5, 2026. To oversee the project, the university formed a committee headed by the Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, with Proctor serving as member secretary. The meeting also approved the establishment of a July Memory Corner at the Dhaka University Central Library to preserve documents and materials related to the uprising. A separate committee, also led by the Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts with the Acting University Librarian as member secretary, will implement the initiative. As part of the observance, a discussion programme focusing on the July Mass Uprising will be held at the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) auditorium on August 5. Individual faculties and residential halls will also organize their own commemorative events. Special prayers will be offered at the university's Central Mosque, mosques in residential halls and university housing areas, as well as at other places of worship, seeking eternal peace for those killed in the uprising and the speedy recovery of those who were injured. The meeting also decided to observe Women's Day on the university campus every year on July 14.

A master's student was found hanging at her husband's house in the Hasnabad area of South Keraniganj on the outskirts of the capital on Tuesday. The deceased was identified as Asia Akter Mim, 26, a first-year master's student at Siddheshwari University College in the capital. Victim’s husband Imamul Islam, who owns a rickshaw garage, said they married about a month ago. He said he had been away from home overseeing construction work on a new house and returned in the afternoon. Failing to find his wife downstairs, he went to the upper floor where he found a room locked from the inside. Receiving no response despite repeated calls, he broke open the door and found her hanging from the ceiling fan around 5:00pm, Imamul said. She was rushed to the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) around 6pm, where doctors declared her dead. Inspector Md Faruk, in-charge of the DMCH police camp, said the body has been kept at the hospital morgue for an autopsy. Police said they were looking into the incident.