United News of Bangladesh

Acclaimed Bengali filmmaker Anik Dutta died on Wednesday afternoon at a private hospital in South Kolkata after suffering critical injuries in a fall from the terrace of his wife’s residence near Gariahat, family members confirmed. He was 66. Dutta was taken to a nearby hospital in a critical condition following the incident but later succumbed to multiple injuries. The filmmaker, grandson of Narendra Chandra Dutta, made his directorial debut with the acclaimed political satire Bhooter Bhabishyat in 2012. The film earned widespread praise for its unique blend of humour, political commentary and social satire, establishing him as a prominent filmmaker in the Bengali film industry. Over the years, Dutta directed several notable films, including Aschorjo Prodip, Borunbabur Bondhu and Aparajito. Released on the 101st birth anniversary of legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray, Aparajito paid tribute to Ray’s life and cinematic legacy. A devoted admirer of Ray, Dutta often reflected the celebrated filmmaker’s influence in his own storytelling and cinematic style. Known for his Left-leaning political views, Dutta was also an outspoken critic of the government led by Mamata Banerjee. His differences with the West Bengal government intensified in 2019 following the release controversy surrounding Bhobishyoter Bhoot, regarded as a spiritual successor to his debut film. The movie was allegedly prevented from screening in theatres, prompting protests and legal action. Later, India’s Supreme Court directed the West Bengal government to pay Rs 20 lakh in compensation to the film’s producer, Kalyanmoy Billy Chatterjee, and imposed an additional fine of Rs 1 lakh on the state. In its observation, the court said, “Free speech cannot be gagged for fear of the mob.” Dutta’s final directorial work was Joto Kando Kolkatatei, featuring actors Abir Chatterjee, Quazi Nawshaba Ahmed and Dulal Lahiri in key roles. Source: NDTV

Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Administrator Abdus Salam on Wednesday urged city residents not to dispose of sacrificial waste indiscriminately and to use jute bags provided by the corporation during Eid-ul-Azha. “We have distributed more than 100,000 jute bags among city residents. We hope they will use those bags for waste disposal. Under no circumstances should waste be thrown into drains,” he said. The city authorities are fully prepared to manage waste generated from sacrificial rituals over the three days of Eid, said Mir Shah Alam while speaking at a press briefing after visiting the National Eidgah. The Eid congregation will be held at 7:30 am and sacrificialactivities across Dhaka will continue for three days, he said adding “We are completely prepared to clean all sacrificial waste during this period.” Through the media, he requested residents to perform sacrifices only at designated places and avoid littering waste in random locations. Highlighting the risks during the monsoon season, the DSCC administrator warned that dumping waste into drains could block water flow and cause waterlogging on city streets. “As it is already the rainy season, clogged drains could result ino verflowing water on roads. We urge everyone to remain cautious int his regard,” he added. The city corporation has also supplied Savlon and bleaching powder for maintaining hygiene after sacrifices, said the DSCC administrator. “We request residents to properly wash the sacrificial spots and use bleaching powder and Savlon. We also expect cooperation with our cleaning workers,” he said. He also said Eid holidays for DSCC officials and employees have been cancelled to ensure uninterrupted services during the festival. “They will remain engaged in serving city residents throughout Eid. We hope citizens will cooperate with them,” he added. Seeking overall support from residents, Salam said everyone should play a role in keeping the city clean. “Just as we keep our homes clean, we should also try to keep our surroundings and nearby roads clean,” he said. “If we all change, Dhaka city will change. Let us work together to build the clean and green city envisioned by the Prime Minister,” he added.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has saidt hat the Bangladesh government has requested a new IMF supportedp rogramme as discussions continue over the country’s reform agenda and policy priorities. In a statement, IMF Mission Chief for Bangladesh Ivo Krznar said the IMF staff are currently engaged in talks with the Bangladeshi authorities regarding the proposed programme. “The Bangladeshi authorities have requested a new IMF supported program. IMF staff are in discussions with the authorities on their reform agenda and policy priorities,” he said. Krznar said the IMF remains committed to supporting Bangladesh in maintaining macroeconomic and financial stability amid ongoing economic challenges. “The IMF remains a committed partner to Bangladesh in its efforts to secure lasting macroeconomic and financial stability, strengthen resilience, and support strong, inclusive growth,” he added. The development comes as Bangladesh continues efforts to stabilise its economy through fiscal, monetary and structural reforms while addressing pressure on foreign exchange reserves, inflation and the financial sector. Bangladesh has been implementing various reform measures under its existing IMF loan programme approved in 2023.

Israel said on Wednesday that it had killed the newly appointed head of Hamas’ military wing in an airstrike in Gaza City, less than two weeks after his predecessor was also killed. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and the military said Tuesday’s airstrikes targeted Mohammed Odeh, who they claim was killed in the operation. Relatives of a man named Mohammed Odeh confirmed he died in the strike but did not verify whether he held a senior Hamas military position. Hamas has not issued any statement on the incident. Katz described him as “one of the masterminds” behind the October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel and said this was the fourth time Israel had eliminated the head of Hamas’ armed wing since that assault. The previous commander, Izz al-Din al-Haddad, was reportedly killed on May 16. At least three people were killed and 12 others injured in the strike, which took place on the eve of Eid al-Adha, a major Islamic holiday. In a post on X, Katz vowed continued action against those involved in the October 7 attacks, saying they would be “eliminated everywhere” and that Hamas would not retain any governing or military control. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also reiterated that Israel would continue targeting anyone linked to the 2023 Hamas attack, as he prepares for upcoming elections. The strike came at a difficult time for Gaza residents, as Muslims marked Eid al-Adha under ongoing conflict and displacement. Many families in the territory are living in tents or temporary shelters after widespread destruction, with humanitarian conditions worsening. Eyewitnesses in Khan Younis and Gaza City said Eid celebrations were minimal, with widespread grief overshadowing the holiday. “This is not Eid… we’re dead,” said one displaced resident, describing the heavy toll of the ongoing war. Another displaced woman said the joy of Eid had disappeared due to the loss of loved ones, adding that the celebration now feels empty for many families. A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, agreed last October, remains fragile. Despite it, Israeli strikes have continued, with Palestinian health authorities reporting hundreds of deaths since it began. Israel says its operations respond to Hamas violations or threats. The war began after the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack that killed about 1,200 people in Israel and saw 251 others taken hostage. Gaza’s health ministry says more than 72,700 Palestinians have since been killed, though it does not separate civilians from fighters.

Prices of sacrificial cattle at Dhaka's makeshift markets have plummeted by more than 50 percent in the final hours before Eid-ul-Azha, with traders reporting heavy losses while buyers welcomed the sharp decline, though poor weather and soaring transport costs are dampening the overall festive mood. Visits to several cattle markets across the capital on Wednesday revealed a dramatic single-day price drop for medium and large cattle, while smaller animals remained largely steady in price. At the Notunbazar 100-Feet cattle market, trader Aynal, who brought 19 cattle from Chuadanga, said buyers are now offering Tk 1.20 lakh to Tk 1.50 lakh for animals he had priced at Tk 2.50 lakh. “If I sell at these prices, I will face massive losses,” he said, adding that he managed to sell only seven animals. Another trader, Shahin, who travelled from Jamalpur with seven cattle, sold only three. He said a cow he had refused to part with at Tk 1.80 lakh is now being offered Tk 1.20 lakh, while another priced at Tk 3 lakh is drawing bids of just Tk 1.50 lakh. At the Aftabnagar market, buyer Raisu noted that demand for premium cattle has virtually collapsed. “No one is willing to go beyond Tk 5 lakh. Sellers asking Tk 8 to Tk 10 lakh are hearing counter-offers of Tk 3 to Tk 3.50 lakh. Those who brought high-value animals will likely return home without selling.” At Meradiya market, Monsur, who oversees the haseel (transaction tax) booth, confirmed the price slide. “Animals that were selling for Tk 1.50 lakh are now going for Tk 70,000 to Tk 80,000,” he said, noting that transaction volumes have fallen sharply compared to last Eid. Weather and Logistics Add to Woes Traders and buyers alike pointed to several days of continuous rainfall as the primary driver of the market downturn, creating waterlogging at multiple venues with no drainage arrangements in sight. Buyer Sakibul Alam at the Tejgaon cattle market said adverse weather forced him to hire a pickup truck — at twice the usual rate. “The cattle price has come down, but extra costs are being added from every direction.” Trader Suleman from Jamalpur, selling at Aftabnagar, said rising fodder prices and higher transport costs had already squeezed his margins before reaching Dhaka. “We raise cattle for Eid expecting extra profit. But at the prices buyers are offering, selling to a butcher by the kilogram would fetch more.” Buyer Saidul Islam at Meradiya noted that a five percent haseel charge, roughly Tk 10,000 on a Tk 2 lakh purchase, is also factored into buyers' calculations, adding further pressure on transaction prices. Sellers are urging hat authorities to ensure proper drainage infrastructure at cattle markets in future years, warning that the combination of poor facilities and unpredictable weather is making the annual trade increasingly unviable for farmers.

Quad, a diplomatic partnership between the United States, Australia, India, and Japan committed to fostering a free and open Indo-Pacific, has highlighted the importance of regional initiatives to strengthen energy resilience. In a statement released by the governments of Australia, India, Japan, and the United States of America on Tuesday on the occasion of the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, they also mentioned important regional initiatives such as India’s support to energy security in South Asia, Japan’s Partnership on Wide Energy and Resources Resilience (POWERR Asia). The countries highlighted Australia’s support to energy security in Southeast Asia and the Pacific, including through the $2 billion Southeast Asia Investment Financing Facility, Australian Development Investments and support for the ASEAN Power Grid, as well as financial assistance to Pacific island countries (including AUD30 million in budget support to Fiji). The United States, Australia, India, and Japan are united by a common vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific, underpinned by robust economic and energy systems. Recognizing shifts in the global energy landscape and escalating geopolitical complexities, the countries are accelerating collaboration to ensure energy stability and security. "We recognize impacts of disruptions to global markets, particularly in relation to oil, gas, and petrochemical products as well as essential goods and critical downstream derivatives such as fertilizers, fall heavily on the Indo-Pacific region. Our leaders have expressed a clear collective intent to cooperate on energy security and resilience," said the countries in a joint statement. They reiterated their strong commitment to ensure well-functioning, stable, transparent, secure and resilient energy markets. The countries reaffirmed the importance of resilient and diversified supply chains, including energy products and other downstream commodities. They reinforced the importance of secure and uninterrupted trade flows, including the safety of navigation and the protection of critical maritime routes and infrastructure, as essential to global economic stability and energy security. The countries reiterated the importance of ensuring unimpeded freedom of navigation and uninterrupted flow of global commerce, including in the Strait of Hormuz, and opposing any restrictive measures hampering the flow of commercial vessels. They recognized their shared commitment to maintain open trade flows of energy products. To this end, the United States, Australia, India, and Japan will work to identify areas of cooperation for the Quad Initiative on Indo-Pacific Energy Security in technology, management, policy, international market analysis, and emergency response exercises through an engagement plan. This group effort would aim to recognize and leverage the unique resources and capabilities of each country’s energy sector, including to strengthen their respective strategic petroleum systems. "We will work with our partners in the Indo-Pacific to help strengthen regional energy resilience," they said in a joint statement shared by the US Department of State. To achieve this, the Quad will convene a Quad Fuel Security Forum to coordinate high-level discussions and facilitate cooperation. Foreign ministers from Australia, India, Japan and the United States announced new initiatives on Tuesday on maritime security, port infrastructure and energy to boost cooperation in the Indo-Pacific to counter concerns about China’s growing influence, reports AP. The announcements by the group of nations known as the Quad came after talks in New Delhi between India’s Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. Speaking after the meeting, Rubio announced a new Indo-Pacific maritime surveillance initiative to integrate the four countries’ surveillance capabilities and strengthen real-time information sharing across the region. He said the Quad would work with Fiji to upgrade port infrastructure in the Pacific islands, marking its first joint regional infrastructure project. The ministers also launched an Indo-Pacific energy security initiative aimed at strengthening regional fuel and energy supply chains, with the U.S. set to host a Quad fuel security forum later this year, Rubio said. “We are deeply committed to this partnership. It is a linchpin in a cornerstone of our global strategy as a nation,” he said. Separately, India and the U.S. signed a deal to strengthen cooperation on critical minerals as global concerns grow over reliance on China-dominated supplies.

The BNP-led government has implemented a series of election manifesto pledges within its first 100 days in office, according to an e-book published by the Prime Minister’s Press Wing. It said the government, which assumed office on February 17 following a major political transition after 17 years, spent the first 100 days addressing political instability, a fragile economy, weak law and order and deep social divisions. The e-book, released by the PM’s Press Wing on Wednesday, said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has been working with commitment to reach people directly and implement the public welfare-oriented promises. It also said the government has already taken a series of initiatives across key sectors, bringing visible changes in public life. Social protection and welfare According to the publication, 53,096 families have received Family Cards, while 20,748 families have been issued Farmers’ Cards. Besides, around 5.5 million families are receiving subsidised rice at Tk 15 per kg while senior citizens and persons with disabilities are receiving a 25 per cent fare discount on metro rail and train services. The government has also arranged advanced medical treatment abroad for 152 injured persons from the July movement in countries including Russia and Singapore. Economy and finance The e-book said foreign exchange reserves rose to 34.38 billion US dollars as of May 20, while inflation declined to 8.71 per cent. Besides, revenue collection increased by 13.6 per cent in the second quarter of the 2025–26 fiscal year. It also said the government has managed the cooking oil market through subsidies amid pressure. Agriculture, infrastructure and communication Canal re-excavation work has begun on 666 canals across the country. The final approval has been given for the “Padma Barrage” project, expected to directly benefit 37 per cent of the population. Meanwhile, a deal has been signed to add 14 Boeing aircraft to expand the national carrier’s fleet while land services have also been fully digitised. Education, health and employment The e-book said over 20 million children have been vaccinated against measles, achieving near universal coverage. Around 65,569 government primary schools have been brought under uninterrupted internet connectivity. The government ensured payment of salaries, bonuses and allowances before Eid for all industrial workers. Sports and religious affairs A “Notun Kuri” Sports” programme for students aged 12–14 is ongoing, while sports equipment has been distributed to 550 educational institutions and clubs. Monthly allowances are being provided to imams, muezzins and other religious leaders in nearly 6,000 institutions. Training has also been given to more than 38,000 butchers on scientific meat processing ahead of Eid. Defence, sovereignty and foreign affairs A modern “Ground Master-400” radar system has been installed to monitor airspace up to 650 kilometres inland and 833 kilometres over the Bay of Bengal. Besides, the government is also reintroducing the phrase “Except Israel” in Bangladeshi passports, which had been removed by the previous Awami League regime. Anti-corruption and governance The e-book said assets worth Tk 4,264 crore belonging to S Alam Group have been seized. “Agreements have been signed with three countries to recover laundered money, while negotiations with others are ongoing.” It also said 10 cabinet meetings were held by May 24, taking 60 decisions, of which 37 have been implemented and 23 are in progress.

Bangladeshi mountaineer Nurunnahar Nimni has become the third Bangladeshi woman to successfully summit Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. Nepal on Wednesday congratulated Bangladeshi mountaineer Nurunnahar Nimni on successfully scaling Mount Everest. "Hearty congratulations to Bangladeshi mountaineer Nurunnahar Nimni on successfully scaling Mount Everest this morning," said the Nepalese Embassy in Dhaka. "We wish her continued success in all her future endeavours," Nepal said 

The United States has deported nearly 13,000 Cubans, Venezuelans and other migrants to Mexico, where many face serious risks including cartel violence and lack of basic support, according to a new report by Human Rights Watch released Wednesday. Although Mexico has accepted such deportations before, the report says those sent under the Trump administration are often older and had lived in the US for many years. This makes it harder for them to find jobs and increases their need for medical care. The findings are based on more than 50 interviews conducted in the southern Mexican cities of Tapachula and Villahermosa. The report comes as US authorities have expanded immigration enforcement as part of a wider mass deportation drive. As a result, people who were not previously targeted — including Cubans who had lived in the US for decades — are now being deported. Since countries like Cuba and Venezuela often refuse or limit return flights, many migrants are instead sent to Mexico under special arrangements. A Human Rights Watch researcher described the situation as extremely difficult, especially for older people who are suddenly removed from their lives and left in an unfamiliar and sometimes dangerous environment without proper support. Cubans make up the largest group among those deported, with more than 4,300 sent to Mexico. Many had lived in the US since the 1980s or 1990s, often holding green cards before losing their legal status. The report says over half had some form of criminal record, but only a small portion were linked to violent crimes, while about a quarter had no criminal history at all. Most were detained during routine immigration check-ins, while others were picked up at workplaces or public places. None were given a chance to appear before a judge to challenge their deportation to Mexico, even when they expressed safety concerns. Once in Mexico, many are sent to southern areas with limited job opportunities, poor access to healthcare and high levels of crime. The process to seek refugee status is also complicated, leaving many stuck without clear legal status. Aid workers say shelters are now seeing older deportees, including people in their 80s — a shift from the younger migrants usually arriving. Human Rights Watch has urged both the US and Mexico to make their deportation agreements public and ensure proper legal procedures are followed. It also called on Mexico to provide healthcare and legal pathways for those unable to return home, and on the US to halt such deportations until safeguards are in place.

Six newborns died at Ad-Din Medical College Hospital in the capital’s Moghbazar area on Wednesday morning, prompting health authorities to form a high-level probe committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The babies died between 6am and 9am this morning, according to the hospital authorities. A high-level probe committee has been formed to investigate the deaths of the six newborns, Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) Prof Dr Prabhat Chandra Biswas told reporters after visiting the hospital’s children’s ward on Wednesday afternoon. The committee will examine whether there was any negligence in hospital management, shortcomings in treatment and whether there were any environmental problems in the room where the newborns were kept, Dr Prabhat said. “Particular attention will be given to any technical faults, including issues related to the air-conditioning system. Technical experts will be co-opted into the committee if needed,” he added. Dr Prabhat said the government would take appropriate action at different levels if any negligence in service, dereliction of duty or infrastructural and technical faults are found. Describing the situation, he said 11 mothers were staying at the facility including six mothers with newborns aged between one and three days. The remaining five newborns were undergoing treatment in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) due to birth-related complications. He said the delivery ward was located on the building’s second floor, while the NICU was on the fifth floor. Referring to the condition of the room, Prof Biswas said an ‘asphyxiating environment’ was found there early in the morning, possibly due to air-conditioning-related complications or other reasons. The committee has been asked to submit its report within the next 72 hours and the government will take strict action based on its findings, said the DGHS chief. The committee included a joint secretary from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, a deputy director-level official from the DGHS hospital wing and another DGHS official. Acting Secretary of the Health Ministry and DGHS Additional Director General (Administration) Prof Dr Md Zahid Raihan was also present during the visit.

Bangladesh and Belgium have discussed the way forward to capitalise on the momentum created by the meeting at the political level for mutual benefit of the two countries. Bangladesh Ambassador Masudul Alam on May 26 met William Asselborn, Director of Asia and Oceania of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the latter's office where they discussed issues of mutual interest.  The relationship between Bangladesh and Belgium has been deepening syeadily and surely, said the Bangladesh Mission.  The recent visit of Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman to Belgium and his meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Belgium added "new momentum" to this very important relationship, said the officials.  The European Union EU hosts the largest research platform of the world.  Bangladesh Ambassador Alam held a fruitful discussions with DG (Research & Innovation) of the EU Marc Lemaître at the latter’s office to deepen research partnership of Bangladesh with the EU.

Five more children died from measles-like symptoms in Bangladesh in 24 hours till 8:00 am on Wednesday, taking the total death toll to 560 since 15th March 2026. The deaths were classified as suspected measles related case, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Among the suspected deaths, the highest two were reported in Dhaka division. With these, the total number of confirmed deaths from measles has risen to 88 while suspected deaths have reached 472, it said. According to DGHS data, a total of 1,056 suspected measles cases were recorded in the last 24 hours, taking the overall suspected cases to 67,079. During the same period, 62 new confirmed measles cases were reported, bringing the total number of confirmed infections to 8,834. Since March 15, a total of 53,463 suspected measles patients were hospitalised, of whom 49,903 have recovered.

Bangladesh is moving to strengthen its energy security and expand electricity access through a new set of government-funded projects targeting gas exploration, power generation and energy sector capacity building. According to a list of proposed projects under the power and energy sector, the government has taken initiatives worth over Tk 3,600 crore to help meet the country’s growing demand for electricity and fuel amid rapid industrialisation, urbanisation and expanding economic activities. Officials said the projects have been designed to boost domestic gas supply, reduce dependence on imported fuel, improve energy infrastructure and extend electricity coverage to remote areas. Under the power generation sub-sector, a project titled “Electricity Supply through Installation of Solar Panels in Remote Areas of the Chattogram Hill Tracts (3rd Phase)” has been proposed for implementation by the Chattogram Hill Tracts Development Board under the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs. The project, estimated at Tk 655.30 crore, is scheduled for implementation from July 2026 to June 2031. Officials said the initiative aims to provide clean and sustainable electricity to remote and off-grid areas of the hill districts where extending conventional grid connections remains difficult and costly. Energy experts said expanded solar-based electricity in remote regions would support rural economic activities, education, healthcare and living standards while contributing to Bangladesh’s renewable energy targets. In the energy and mineral resources sub-sector, seven projects have been proposed under the Energy and Mineral Resources Division to strengthen domestic gas exploration, institutional capacity and geological mapping. The largest share of proposed investment has been allocated to gas exploration and development projects under Petrobangla, as the government intensifies efforts to increase local gas production to meet rising demand from industries, power plants and households. One project involves drilling two appraisal-cum-development wells—Titas-32 and Titas-33—in the Titas gas field, at an estimated cost of Tk 632 crore. The project will run from January 2026 to December 2028. Another proposal includes drilling one appraisal-cum-development well, Begumganj-5, and two exploration wells, Begumganj-6 and Sunetra-2, with an estimated cost of Tk 731.24 crore. Petrobangla has also proposed drilling five wells in Bhola—Shahbazpur-9, Shahbazpur-10, Bhola North-5, Bhola North-6 and Bhola North-7—at an estimated cost of Tk 1,242.41 crore between April 2026 and March 2029. In addition, another project proposes drilling three appraisal-cum-development wells—Titas-34, Titas-35 and Titas-36—at a cost of Tk 95 crore from January 2027 to December 2029. Energy officials said the government is prioritising domestic gas exploration to reduce pressure on costly imported liquefied natural gas (LNG) and ensure uninterrupted fuel supply for power generation and industrial production. Bangladesh has been facing rising energy demand due to continued economic growth, expansion of manufacturing industries and higher urban consumption. The country has increasingly relied on LNG imports in recent years following depletion of some mature gas fields. Officials said new gas discoveries and higher output from existing fields are crucial to maintaining energy security and stabilising electricity generation costs. To support institutional development in the sector, the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation has proposed a Tk 165.79 crore project to enhance its capacity from January 2026 to December 2029. Sector insiders said the initiative would improve research, training and technical expertise in the petroleum and energy sector. Meanwhile, the Department of Explosives has proposed a Tk 83.01 crore project for construction of its central office building and institutional capacity enhancement. The Geological Survey of Bangladesh has also proposed a technical project titled “Integrated Geological Mapping of Sylhet Division (Geological, Geo-engineering and Geochemical)” involving Tk 49.37 crore from July 2026 to June 2029. Experts said integrated geological mapping would support future mineral and energy resource exploration and strengthen data-based planning in the sector. Officials said the proposed projects reflect the government’s broader strategy to diversify energy sources, expand renewable energy use, increase domestic gas output and strengthen institutional capacity to ensure long-term energy security.

Chinese authorities have executed a man convicted of poisoning and killing a billionaire gaming executive connected to Netflix’s “3 Body Problem” series, according to local media reports published Tuesday. The man, Xu Yao, was found guilty of murdering Lin Qi, founder of Shanghai-based Yoozoo Games. The company holds adaptation rights to the popular science-fiction trilogy “The Three-Body Problem.” Written by Liu Cixin, the trilogy has gained global recognition, translated into more than 40 languages and adapted into various TV and gaming productions, including Netflix’s 2024 series. Xu, a former senior executive at a Yoozoo subsidiary, carried out the poisoning in 2020 following a workplace dispute. Reports say he became resentful after being sidelined by Lin, shortly after helping secure the Netflix deal. He was convicted in 2024 and executed on May 21, according to Chinese business outlet Yicai Global and other media. Yoozoo Games confirmed the development in a statement posted on Weibo, saying the case has now concluded and justice has been served. “We are deeply grateful that justice has prevailed,” the company said. Authorities and the Shanghai High People’s Court have not issued further comments. Local reports indicate Xu spent large sums of money to obtain highly toxic substances online, including alpha-amanitin — a deadly toxin found in certain mushrooms. He reportedly mixed the poison into probiotic supplements and also placed it in coffee capsules, drinking water, and whiskey, which he shared with Lin and other employees. Lin fell seriously ill in December 2020 and died days later at the age of 39. Several other employees were also affected but later recovered. The “Three-Body Problem” series remains widely popular both in China and internationally. Its author, Liu Cixin, became the first Chinese writer to win the prestigious Hugo Award, and the trilogy has helped boost China’s science fiction industry across multiple platforms.

Muslims in parts of Bangladesh's Chandpur, Shariatpur and Patuakhali districts are celebrating Eid-ul-Azha on Wednesday in line with Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries,ahead of the national observation. In Satkhira, people in at least 25 villages of Satkhira offered Eid prayers and sacrificed animals. An Eid congregation was held at around 7:30am at a mosque in Bhadra Baukola village under Sadar upazila, organised by a section of Ahle Hadith followers. Maulana Mahbubur Rahman led the prayers. At the same time, devotees from nearly 25 villages, including Islamkati in Tala upazila and Goaalchattar, Bhadra, Ghona and Mirgidanga in Satkhira Sadar, joined Eid congregations. Women also participated in the Eid prayers alongside men. Devotees said they have been observing Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha in line with Saudi Arabia for the last 12 years. After the prayers, devotees exchanged greetings and became busy with animal sacrifices as part of the religious observance. In Shariatpur, around 20,000 Muslim devotees from at least 30 villages took part in the Eid celebrations. The main Eid congregation was held at the Sureshwar Darbar Sharif in Naria upazila at 10:30am on Wednesday. Another congregation was also held simultaneously at a separate ground. The prayers were led by Shah Sufi Syed Belal Noori Al Sureshwari and Maulana Md Julhas Uddin. After the prayers, special munajat was offered seeking peace, prosperity and welfare for the country, the nation and the Muslim Ummah. Sources at the Darbar Sharif said they have been observing fasting and celebrating the two Eids in line with Saudi Arabia for nearly 150 years. Continuing that tradition, Eid-ul-Azha was celebrated a day earlier this year as well. In Patuakhali, around 2,000 people from Badrpur village in sadar upazila offered Eid prayers on the day. The main Eid congregation was held at Badrpur Darbar Sharif at 8:00am. Khadem of the Darbar Sharif, Md Nazmul Hossain, said people in the area have been starting Ramadan fasting a day earlier in line with Saudi Arabia since 1928. Following the tradition, they also celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha a day ahead of Bangladesh. Other villages in the district where Eid was celebrated on Wednesday include Sener Hawla, Pashuribunia, Nijhawla, Kankunipara and Maudubi in Galachipa and Rangabali upazilas; Madanpura, Rajnagar, Boga, Dhaurabhanga, Surdi, Chandrapara, Dwipasha, Shaplakhaly, Konokdia and Amirabad in Bauphal; Nishanbaria and Itbaria in Kalapara; and Naiyapatti, Tiakhali, Tegachia and South Debpur in the district town. The Eid congregation at Badrpur Darbar Sharif was led by its Imam and Khatib, Maulana Shafiqul Islam Gani.  

The US military carried out another strike on a boat suspected of carrying illegal drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, killing one person and leaving two others alive, officials said. U.S. Southern Command shared video of the operation showing a speedboat travelling across the water before being hit and bursting into flames. The command said it immediately alerted the US Coast Guard to launch a search and rescue operation for the survivors. The latest attack is part of an ongoing US military campaign against suspected drug trafficking vessels in Latin American waters, including both the eastern Pacific and the Caribbean Sea, which began in September. Officials say the campaign has killed at least 194 people so far. However, the military has not publicly presented evidence that the targeted boats were actually carrying drugs. The Pentagon’s inspector general has recently launched a review to check whether proper targeting procedures were followed during such strikes. The review will look at operational decision-making but will not examine the legality of the attacks, which have drawn criticism from some lawmakers and legal experts. The Trump administration maintains that the US is effectively in a conflict with Latin American drug cartels, which it blames for rising drug overdose deaths in the United States.

Eid al-Adha, or the “Feast of Sacrifice,” is an Islamic holiday that begins during the Hajj, on the 10th day of the Islamic lunar month of Dhul-Hijja. This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors.

Bus operators across Bangladesh overcharged around 234,000 Eid travellers  approximately Tk 5.62 crore on 26 out of 27 monitored long-distance routes, the Bangladesh Jatri Kalyan Samity (passenger welfare association) said Wednesday, exposing what it called a systemic breakdown of fare discipline during the festive travel season. The finding covers  27 of the roughly 850 long-haul routes operating nationwide during the Eid-ul-Azha holiday period. In a statement, the organisation said the Bangladesh Road Transport Owners' Association publicly pledged not to charge extra fares this Eid, a promise it described as having been flouted almost universally. “The anarchy of excess fare collection is continuing on city services and long-distance buses across the country.” Monitoring data revealed sharp disparities between official and charged fares on major corridors.  On the Dhaka-Khulna route, passengers in 51-seat buses paid Tk 1,000 against a legal fare of Tk 541.  On the Dhaka-Patua­khali route, the official Tk 570 fare was collected at Tk 1,000. Travellers on the Dhaka-Shariatpur route paid Tk 500 against an authorised Tk 233. Other notable overcharges included: Dhaka-Barisal (Tk 850 vs Tk 592); Dhaka-Madaripur (Tk 500 vs Tk 250); Dhaka-Bhanga (Tk 400 vs Tk 200); Dhaka-Faridpur (Tk 500 vs Tk 300); Chittagong-Gaibandha (Tk 2,200 vs Tk 1,100); and Chittagong-Bogura (Tk 1,800 vs Tk 1,000). Inspectors also found that some 52-seat buses had fraudulently replaced their official fare charts with those applicable to 40-seat vehicles, a tactic that inflates the per-seat rate. Passengers boarding for shorter distances were also charged the full terminal fare, it saidop. Drivers and helpers told Jatri Kalyan Samity monitors that the absence of regular salaries and Eid bonuses for transport workers was a key driver of the overcharging. The organisation noted, however, that excess fare collection appeared somewhat lower compared to the previous Eid-ul-Fitr, which it attributed to stricter government warnings and pressure from the owners' association. Around 9.5 million passengers are estimated to have travelled out of Dhaka alone this Eid, with inter-district trips across the country potentially reaching 30 million. The association attributed the recurring problem to years of deferred reform in the transport sector, including the absence of regulated driver wages, flawed fare collection mechanisms, and the fact that the government's Eid travel monitoring committee remains dominated by the very bus owners’ and workers' federations it is meant to oversee. Low-income passengers, the statement noted, are being forced to travel in dangerous conditions on the roofs of buses and trains, and in open or goods-laden trucks to avoid inflated fares. Jatri Kalyan Samity called for digitalisation of fare payment on public transport to eliminate cash transactions, enforcement of driver wages and bonuses, installation of CC cameras with e-prosecution capability on highways, and removal of the transport owners' association and workers’ federation from the Eid monitoring committee, leaving oversight exclusively with the government.

Moving to music is proving to be one of the best ways for older adults to stay healthy, active and socially engaged, according to health experts in the United States. At a dance practice in Arizona, 87-year-old Carol Ross leads a group of women aged 50 and above in tap and jazz routines, smiling as she calls out steps. Ross, who founded the Rodeo City Wreckettes more than two decades ago, says dancing has been a lifelong passion that keeps her energized. Medical professionals say dance can be as beneficial as other forms of exercise, helping older adults improve strength, balance, flexibility and even brain health. It also supports mental wellbeing and social connection. Experts note that any style of dance — from ballroom and salsa to line dancing or fitness routines like Zumba — can offer similar benefits. Health specialists say dancing can reduce the risk of falls and help improve mobility, especially when routines include movements such as stepping backwards or balancing on one leg. Doctors also recommend older adults include regular dance sessions as part of their weekly exercise routine, alongside aerobic activity. Members of the Wreckettes rehearse twice a week for two-hour sessions, performing at community events, rodeos and retirement homes. The group often donates its earnings to charity. For many members, dancing also helps build friendships and reduce loneliness, especially after major life changes such as retirement or the loss of a partner. Several dancers say staying active is their way of ensuring a healthier and more fulfilling life in old age. The group also regularly performs for people in care homes, where music often helps lift the mood of residents, especially those in memory care units. Similar dance groups for seniors in other US cities also perform regularly, saying learning routines helps keep both body and mind sharp. Health experts advise those interested in starting dance later in life to first consult a doctor, begin with simple routines, and look for classes at community centres, gyms or online platforms. They also recommend wearing comfortable clothing and warming up properly before starting any dance session.

NASA has announced early plans for building a long-term base on the Moon, moving ahead with orders for landers, rovers and drones just weeks after its Artemis II lunar mission. The US space agency revealed the first phase of its lunar base programme on Tuesday, awarding hundreds of millions of dollars in contracts to four American companies. Under the plan, Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin will provide a pair of landers to transport equipment to the Moon’s surface near the south pole. The landers will carry lunar buggies developed by companies Astrolab and Lunar Outpost. Meanwhile, Firefly Aerospace will send drones to support operations on the lunar surface. NASA hopes the equipment will reach the Moon before astronauts land there again, with crewed missions expected as early as 2028. The agency’s Artemis programme is already advancing. In April, Artemis II carried four astronauts around the Moon, flying farther into space than any human mission since the Apollo era. The next mission, Artemis III, planned for 2027, will test docking systems in orbit as part of preparations for landing astronauts on the lunar surface. NASA is aiming for a human landing by 2028, followed by gradual expansion of the Moon base in the 2030s. Later phases will include building infrastructure such as a power system and eventually permanent habitats for astronauts. Officials say the long-term goal is to establish a sustained human presence on the Moon. NASA’s Moon base programme executive Carlos Garcia-Galan said the future base could stretch across hundreds of square miles, supported by drones placed at key locations to help monitor the area. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said the system is also designed to respect other countries’ lunar missions and equipment, with expectations of similar cooperation from other space agencies. He added that the Moon base is intended to support scientific research, encourage a lunar economy, and prepare for future missions to Mars. “The journey is just beginning, and we are not slowing down,” Isaacman said.

Asian stock markets mostly advanced on Wednesday, tracking record gains on Wall Street, while global oil prices slipped amid easing market concerns. South Korea’s Kospi index led regional gains, jumping nearly 5% to a record high as strong buying in technology and semiconductor stocks continued. Taiwan’s main index also surged, driven by optimism around artificial intelligence (AI) demand. In Japan, the Nikkei 225 rose 1.3% to 65,816.62, briefly crossing the 66,000 mark during intraday trading for the first time. Shares of major chip-related companies such as Tokyo Electron and Advantest rose sharply. The rally in Asian tech stocks followed a strong performance in the United States, where Micron Technology jumped nearly

The BNP government has begun implementing around 200 initiatives and projects within its first 100 days in office, bringing visible changes in public life and society, said an e-book published by the Prime Minister’s Press Wing. The e-book, released by the PMO Press Wing on Wednesday morning and available on the PMO website, highlights the government’s key achievements, sector-wise activities and policy measures. It said the document will be updated regularly over time. It said that through these initiatives and projects, the government has brought a message of hope and positive change to the nation. According to the publication, the first 100 days of the government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman after the 13th parliamentary election were mainly focused on setting directions, administrative restructuring and rebuilding public confidence. It said despite economic pressure, global instability, energy shortages, limited employment opportunities and long-standing institutional weaknesses, the government quickly introduced several policy-based and people-oriented initiatives. The Press Wing said in the e-book that the government during this period placed greater emphasis on social and economic support measures directly affecting people’s lives, alongside digital and structural reforms in the administration and judiciary, and long-term economic and infrastructure planning. Among the major initiatives listed in the e-book are the Family Card, Farmers’ Card, waiver of agricultural loans, Sports Card, e-Health Card, digital land services, e-bail bond system, canal re-excavation programmes, financial allowances for imams, muezzins and religious leaders, renewable energy projects and new programmes for education and youth. It also noted that some personal and administrative decisions of the Prime Minister — including limiting state protocol, reducing government expenditure, directing quick solutions to field-level problems and maintaining direct engagement with ordinary people — have given a different dimension to the government’s political message. At the same time, the publication acknowledged that controlling commodity prices, ensuring energy security, increasing investment, expanding employment and implementing long-term reforms remain major challenges. Still, the e-book said, the government in its first 100 days tried to project an image of an active, fast decision-making and people-oriented administration. It also said many programmes are still at the early implementation stage, but the government has expressed its commitment to making the state more technology-driven, accountable and service-oriented. As per the publication, election pledges are often treated as part of political speeches, but leadership is judged by how those promises are transformed into practical action plans after assuming office. It said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s election commitments and his direct political instructions for their quick implementation have now become a subject of national discussion in Bangladesh’s new political reality. The e-book also said after taking office on February 17, the government faced multiple challenges, including global economic pressure, a foreign currency reserve crisis, stagnation in investment, shortage of jobs and administrative weaknesses. “Within the first 100 days, signs of faster policymaking, stability in economic management, discipline in administrative activities and positive trends in restoring investment and employment have become visible,” it added. The e-book said this is the first time in Bangladesh that a government started implementing election promises across the country immediately after assuming office, as it believes serving disadvantaged people is the primary responsibility of elected representatives.  

Oreo has partnered with global K-pop sensation BTS to launch a special edition cookie inspired by Korean flavours and designed to appeal to fans around the world. The limited-edition BTS Oreos will go on sale online from June 1 and in stores from June 8, according to parent company Mondelez. The cookies will be available in more than 80 markets, making it the brand’s largest global collaboration so far. The special Oreos feature purple-coloured wafers, inspired by BTS’s signature colour, along with 13 unique designs stamped on the biscuits. These include the names of the seven band members and an outline of the group’s concert light stick. The cream filling is designed to taste like “hotteok,” a popular Korean street food pancake filled with brown sugar. BTS said in a statement that the collaboration is meaningful to them as Oreo is one of the first global snack brands they have worked with. The group added that the flavour reflects a taste of home they are now sharing with fans worldwide. Mondelez said the cookies are being released for a limited time, though the company did not disclose production numbers. Company officials said the goal was to balance authentic Korean flavours with Oreo’s global appeal. They added that the development process took around two years, with several flavour options considered before choosing hotteok. Experts say the launch comes at a time when consumers are increasingly interested in international foods, driven by social media trends and easier access to global ingredients. Popular platforms like TikTok have helped boost interest in dishes such as hotteok, while international grocery chains and food delivery services have made global cuisine more accessible. Oreo has previously collaborated with brands and celebrities including Coca-Cola, Selena Gomez, and K-pop group Blackpink, as well as launching region-specific flavours in different countries. BTS also has a strong history of food-related partnerships, including a global meal collaboration with McDonald’s in 2021 and other Korean food product launches. Mondelez said such collaborations help the brand stay relevant among younger consumers while expanding its global reach. The company added that it continues to explore new partnerships that connect with local cultures while appealing to a worldwide audience.

Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has predicted rains or thundershowers in parts of Bangladesh in 24 hours commencing at 9 am on Wednesday. “Light to moderate rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty or squally wind and lightning flashes is likely to occur at many places over Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions with moderately heavy to heavy falls at places over the country.,” said a Met office bulletin. Day temperature may fall by 1-2°C and night temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country. Besides, a low-pressure area is likely to form over Eastcentral Bay of Bengal.    

Ferry services on the Paturia-Daulatdia route on the Padma River in Manikganj district resumed on Wednesday after an hour-long disruption caused by inclement weather. Ferry movement on the route remained halted from 7:00am to 8:00am. Abdus Salam, deputy general manager of BIWTC’s Aricha region, said a nor’wester hit the ghat area around 7:00am, prompting authorities to suspend ferry operations to avoid any untoward incidents. During the suspension, ferries were kept anchored at the ghats while passengers remained onboard. Ferry movement returned to normal from 8:00am after the weather improved. The BIWTC official also said that 18 small and large ferries are currently operating on the Paturia-Daulatdia route to transport passengers and vehicles.    

Football fans planning to attend World Cup matches in the United States are expressing frustration over high transportation costs, adding to already expensive tickets, flights and accommodation. In previous tournaments, host countries made travel easier and often free for fans. Germany’s 2006 World Cup, known as a “Summer Fairy Tale,” offered free public transport with match tickets. Similar arrangements were seen in Russia in 2018 and Qatar in 2022. However, fans heading to matches in some US cities are now facing steep transit fares. Train tickets to stadiums in New Jersey and Massachusetts are costing up to $98 and $80 for a round trip — far higher than the usual prices for similar routes. Officials say the higher fares are needed to cover extra security and expanded services, without putting pressure on taxpayers. But many fans believe they are being unfairly charged in a country where public transport is already limited. Some US state and local leaders have also raised concerns, arguing that FIFA, which is expected to earn billions from the tournament, should cover these costs instead. Fans seek cheaper alternatives Frustrated by the situation, some fans are finding their own solutions. A group of Scottish supporters, for example, arranged private school buses to travel to matches in Massachusetts at a much lower cost than official transport options. The group said their plan would save thousands of dollars overall, highlighting the large gap between official and alternative travel costs. Many fans say they are already spending heavily to attend the World Cup, with some expecting to take years to repay their expenses. Mixed approaches across cities Transport plans vary across host cities. Some, like Atlanta, Houston and Seattle, will charge regular fares for rail travel. Miami plans to offer free shuttle services, while Philadelphia will provide free return trips from the stadium. Kansas City is offering relatively low-cost shuttle services. Higher costs in places like New Jersey and Massachusetts are partly due to stadium locations outside city centers, where public transport is less developed. Parking will also be limited during the tournament, forcing more fans to rely on trains and buses. Experts say it is common for international sports bodies like FIFA to pass costs to host cities. However, US local authorities appear less willing to absorb these expenses compared to past host countries. Debate over who should pay Some officials have called on FIFA to cover transport costs, but the organization has pushed back, saying such expenses are usually handled by host cities. It also noted that earlier agreements were later adjusted to allow transport to be provided at cost. Experts say previous host nations treated the World Cup as an opportunity to boost their global image and were more willing to subsidize travel for fans. There are also concerns that the expected economic benefits of hosting the tournament may not fully materialize, as hotel bookings in several US cities have been lower than expected. Fans still determined to attend Despite the challenges, fans remain eager to attend matches, though many are still unsure how they will manage transportation. Some have welcomed recent efforts to lower bus fares in certain cities, but limited availability means not all fans will benefit. For many, attending the World Cup remains a dream — even if getting to the stadium proves difficult.

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka once again grabbed attention for her fashion as she appeared in a striking outfit at the French Open on Tuesday. Osaka entered Court Suzanne-Lenglen wearing a stylish black skirt and a sleeveless beaded top, which she later removed to reveal a glittering gold dress for her opening match. After the match, Osaka said the outfit was inspired by the sparkling lights of the Eiffel Tower at night. “It’s very couture. When the Eiffel Tower shines at night, it kind of looks like this. I feel like I look a bit like that,” she said. She started the match in a layered look, including a structured top designed like armor and a long pleated skirt. After taking them off, she played in the gold dress and defeated Germany’s Laura Siegemund 6-3, 7-6 (3). Osaka said the gold playing dress was designed by Nike, while the outer outfit was created by Swiss designer Kevin Germanier. The four-time Grand Slam winner has become known for her bold fashion choices. Earlier this year at the Australian Open, she wore a wide hat, a veil and carried a parasol. At last year’s US Open, she styled her look with sparkling red roses in her hair and even brought a matching accessory. She also recently made headlines with a standout appearance at the Met Gala in New York. Speaking about balancing fashion and performance, Osaka said she has grown used to making dramatic entrances before matches. She believes athletes are also entertainers, and Grand Slam events give her a chance to express that side. However, she admitted she was slightly concerned that the dress might reflect too much sunlight during the match, joking that she worried the umpire might ask her to change. She said she kept backup outfits ready just in case. Elsewhere at the tournament, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka also drew attention by wearing diamond necklaces during her match. Osaka said she enjoys expressing herself through fashion, adding that since she does not speak much, her clothes help her communicate her personality.

Preparations have been completed for the 199th Eid-ul-Azha congregation at the historic Sholakia Eidgah in Kishoreganj, with authorities putting in place extensive security and logistical arrangements for what is considered the largest Eid congregation in Bangladesh. The Eid jamaat will be held at 9:00am on Eid day, with Mufti Abul Khair Mohammad Saifullah set to lead the congregation. Known for its rich history and religious significance, the Sholakia Eidgah attractsMuslims from across Bangladesh and abroad every year. Officials said the number of devotees attending the congregation has continued to grow steadily. Located on nearly seven acres of land on the bank of the Narasunda River, the Eidgah was established in 1828 by Dewan Haybat Khan Bahadur, the sixth-generation descendant of Masnad-i-Ala Isa Khan and a local zamindar. The venue was originally known as “Sowa Lakhhi Math” after around 125,000 devotees attended the first congregation. Over time, the name evolved into Sholakia. Authorities have completed preparations at the ground, including marking 265 rows for devotees, clearing weeds and filling small pits to ensure a smooth prayer area. A four-tier security arrangement involving police, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has been put in place to ensure a peaceful congregation, according to RAB-14. Locals said Sholakia remains unique for hosting one of the largest Eid congregations in the region, drawing hundreds of thousands of devotees seeking to offer prayers together and pray for divine blessings. However, some locals expressed concern over what they described as inadequate preservation and maintenance of the historic Eidgah despite its cultural and religious significance. Deputy Commissioner and President of the Sholakia Eidgah Management Committee Sohana Nasrin said two special trains, branded as “Sholakia Express,” will operate on the Bhairab-Kishoreganj and Mymensingh-Kishoreganj routes to facilitate the movement of people on Eid day. She said the district administration has arranged accommodation, food, safe drinking water, medical services, toilets and ablution facilities for devotees arriving from distant areas. Executive magistrates will also remain on duty to deal with any emergency situation. Kishoreganj Superintendent of Police Mohammad Mizanur Rahman said elaborate security measures have been taken to ensure a safe and uninterrupted congregation. Muslims will be screened before entering the Eidgah through designated points. Security arrangements include 32 checkpoints, seven archways, 50 metal detectors, 64 CCTV cameras and four watchtowers. Bomb disposal teams from different units will remain on standby, while police drones will monitor the area from the air. RAB-14 officials said more than 100 personnel will be deployed in multiple security layers around the venue. Several watchtowers have been set up for surveillance, with snipers and other security personnel stationed at strategic locations. Drone and binocular surveillance will also be used throughout the event. Kishoreganj-1 lawmaker Mazharul Islam expressed optimism that this year’s Eid congregation would be held in a safe, peaceful and orderly manner and urged devotees to return home safely after the prayers. Following the long-standing tradition of Sholakia Eidgah, three gunshots will be fired before the congregation begins as a signal for devotees to prepare for the Eid prayers.  

Dhaka's air quality has turned ‘good’, all thanks to monsoon showers in different parts of the country. With an air quality index (AQI) score of 47 at 10:30am today, the city ranked 67th  in the list of world cities with the worst air quality. India’s Delhi, Pakistan’s Lahore and Philipines’s Manila occupied the first three spots in the list, with AQI scores of 195, 173 and 115, respectively. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered ‘good’. When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', while a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents. The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them. The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon.    

At least one worker has died and nine others are missing after a large chemical tank collapsed at a paper mill in Washington state, authorities said, fearing the missing may not be found alive. The incident occurred Tuesday at Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. in Longview, where a massive tank containing nearly one million gallons of a highly corrosive substance suddenly imploded. Officials said there is little hope of rescuing those still unaccounted for. Another nine people were injured in the accident, some critically. Victims suffered burns and breathing problems caused by exposure to the chemical. Fire officials described the situation as a recovery operation rather than a rescue effort. Work was paused overnight due to safety concerns and was expected to resume Wednesday, focusing first on stabilizing the damaged tank before searching for the missing workers. The tank still holds a large amount of “white liquor,” a dangerous chemical mixture used in paper production. Authorities warned that there is a risk of further leakage or collapse, which is why operations are being limited to daylight hours. Officials said there is no immediate danger to the public. The cause of the collapse remains unknown. Families of workers gathered near the site seeking information, with some expressing frustration over a lack of communication. A vigil was held later in the evening, where community members mourned the victims. The factory, located along the Columbia River, is a major employer in the area and plays a key role in the local economy. It produces materials used in paper products, packaging and other everyday items. Emergency teams, including firefighters and hazardous materials units, responded quickly to the scene and transported the injured to nearby hospitals after decontamination. Environmental officials said the chemical spilled into a drainage area, and a team has been sent to assess the impact. Authorities have promised a full investigation into the incident. US officials said the community deserves clear answers about what caused the accident. Records show the company had been cited for several minor safety violations in recent years, though officials said those issues were not directly linked to Tuesday’s disaster.

An unusually early heat wave has swept across parts of Western Europe, breaking long-standing temperature records and causing several deaths, officials said. In the United Kingdom, temperatures crossed 35 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, setting a new record for this time of year for the second day in a row. According to the Met Office, 35.1°C was recorded at London’s Kew Gardens, surpassing both Monday’s record and a century-old high set in 1922. London also experienced a rare “tropical night,” where temperatures stayed above 20°C. France has also been hit by extreme heat, with temperatures reaching up to 36°C in the southwest and remaining above 20°C overnight in many areas. The country’s weather agency said a “heat dome” — a high-pressure system trapping hot air — is pushing temperatures more than 10°C above normal for this time of year. Experts say such extreme and unpredictable weather events are becoming more common due to climate change. They warn that rising global temperatures are making heat waves more frequent and intense, even in seasons when they are not usually expected. After a long weekend, many people in the UK crowded beaches and parks to cool down, while commuters struggled in overheated trains and subways without air conditioning. Some train services were disrupted due to heat-related issues. Emergency services also responded to wildfires in parts of Scotland, where a large grass fire broke out near Edinburgh. Health authorities in the UK have issued an amber alert, warning of possible health risks, especially for older people. Since many homes and public places in the country lack air conditioning, the heat has become particularly challenging. At least five people, including teenagers, have died in the UK in suspected drowning incidents as they tried to cool off in lakes and reservoirs. In France, officials reported at least seven deaths linked to the heat, including several drownings and fatalities during sports activities. The risks have increased as the heat wave arrived before lifeguards were deployed at many beaches. Authorities have urged people to be cautious, especially along the Atlantic coast, where strong currents have already led to multiple rescue incidents. The heat has also spread to Spain, where temperatures in some areas have reached up to 38°C  levels usually seen in mid-summer. Weather officials say temperatures across the region are 5 to 10°C higher than normal. In Italy, Rome is also experiencing rising temperatures, with highs expected to reach around 32°C. Officials across Europe are continuing to warn people to stay safe as the unusual heat wave continues.

US President Donald Trump is set to meet his Cabinet on Wednesday at a critical point in ongoing efforts to end the conflict with Iran. This comes just days after he claimed that a settlement had been “largely negotiated,” even though discussions remain unsettled. Ahead of the meeting, Trump has expressed confidence that a deal is close. He hopes the agreement will help reopen the Strait of Hormuz and allow him to argue that Iran’s nuclear capabilities have been reduced enough to declare success. The conflict has been politically unpopular among Republicans, adding pressure for a resolution. However, there are concerns that any deal reached may fall short of expectations. Key issues have been left for later negotiations, and critics  including some of Trump’s supporters  fear Iran could emerge weakened but more determined. The situation is becoming more sensitive as US midterm elections approach, with Republicans worried about rising fuel prices and growing public dissatisfaction. Tensions increased further after US forces carried out what the Pentagon described as “defensive” strikes on missile sites and boats in southern Iran earlier this week. While Washington said the action was restrained, Iran criticized it as a sign of bad faith. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said negotiations on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and extending the ceasefire would take a few more days. He added that Trump would either secure a strong agreement or walk away without a deal. Meanwhile, Trump complained on social media that even a full surrender by Iran might still be portrayed by the media as a victory for Tehran. Concerns among allies Despite Trump’s optimism, major differences remain between the US and Iran. Some Republican leaders, including Senators Roger Wicker, Lindsey Graham and Ted Cruz, have voiced concern that the proposed terms may favor Iran too much. They argue that parts of the deal resemble the nuclear agreement reached under former President Barack Obama — a deal Trump had previously scrapped. Under the proposed agreement, Iran would give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium in exchange for relief from sanctions, according to officials familiar with the talks. However, details of how this would be done are still unclear and may be negotiated during a 60-day period. The International Atomic Energy Agency estimates that Iran currently possesses a significant amount of uranium enriched close to weapons-grade levels, though Tehran has not publicly agreed to surrender it. Trump recently suggested the uranium could be handed over to the US or destroyed under international supervision, signaling a softer stance compared to his earlier position. Impact on regional tensions Another unresolved issue is whether the ceasefire would include Israel’s ongoing operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Iran has insisted that Lebanon must be part of any broader agreement. The US proposal appears to allow flexibility, supporting a ceasefire while also recognizing Israel’s right to defend itself against threats. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that military operations in Lebanon are continuing. Analysts warn that any sanctions relief could allow Iran to rebuild its military strength and support allied groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. Abraham Accords push faces hurdles Trump has also suggested expanding the Abraham Accords — agreements aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and several countries — as part of a broader deal. However, this proposal faces challenges. Key regional players like Saudi Arabia have said they would only consider such steps if there is clear progress toward establishing a Palestinian state, something Israel opposes. Reports suggest that Trump’s proposal received a muted response from some Middle Eastern leaders, although opinions appear divided. Despite concerns, US allies in the region continue to support efforts to end the conflict, seeing few alternatives to diplomacy.  

Dhaka witnessed another spell of heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms on Wednesday morning, disrupting Eid-ul-Azha preparations and causing waterlogging in several parts of the capital. The downpour which began early in the morning  inundated roads in low-lying areas and added to the misery of commuters already grappling with persistent rain over the past three days. Dark clouds continued to hover over the city, raising fears of further rainfall in the coming days. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) earlier forecast rain and thunderstorms during the Eid holidays, warning that the wet weather could persist across different parts of the country. The continuous rainfall has intensified difficulties for thousands of people travelling home to celebrate Eid with their families. Congestion on highways and key exit routes from the capital has been compounded by poor visibility, slippery roads and intermittent showers. Cattle traders said the adverse weather has also affected the transportation of sacrificial animals and operations at temporary cattle markets set up. Waterlogged roads and muddy market grounds have made it difficult for traders to bring livestock to markets and for buyers to inspect animals. At several makeshift cattle markets in Dhaka on Tuesday buyers and sellers were seen struggling to move cattle through rain-soaked roads and muddy enclosures. Traders said transporting animals in the inclement weather has become increasingly costly and challenging, while prospective buyers complained of inconvenience and discomfort while selecting cattle. The rain has left many market areas muddy and slippery, hampering trading activities during one of the busiest periods of the year for livestock sellers. According to a BMD’s bulletin, the highest rainfall recorded in the country  on Tuesday was 130mm in Srimangal. Meteorologists said rain accompanied by thunderstorms may continue over the next several days, raising concerns about further disruptions to Eid travel and cattle trading activities across the country.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Tuesday extended greetings to the people of Bangladesh and Muslims across the world on the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha. In a message posted on his verified Facebook page, the Prime Minister said, “Holy Eid-ul-Azha has once again arrived at the doorstep of the Muslim Ummah across the world, reminding everyone of the unique message of supreme spirit of sacrifice, the glorious guidance of taqwa and self-purification.” He said Muslims in Bangladesh and across the globe are preparing to celebrate Eid-ul-Azha inspired by the glory of sacrifice. “This glorified Islamic festival is not merely a celebration of joy, but also carries an eternal message of deep faith in the Almighty, self-devotion and sacrifice. The unwavering faith, unconditional obedience and supreme sacrifice demonstrated by Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) for the satisfaction of Almighty Allah have made this day deeply significant and glorious for the Muslim Ummah,” Tarique Rahman said. On this auspicious occasion, he extended Eid Mubarak to the people of the country and Muslims around the world. The Prime Minister also prayed for peace, security and stability for Bangladesh, the Muslim world and humanity as a whole. “At the same time, I also pray for global peace, harmony and security.” “May this holy Eid-ul-Azha shine with the glory of sacrifice. May Allah accept our sacrifices and prayers. May our lives be filled with peace and prosperity through His endless mercy and blessings,” he concluded.

Iran has condemned fresh US air strikes in southern Iran as a “gross violation” of the ceasefire, warning that Washington will face consequences for what Tehran described as “aggressive and unjustified actions” in the Hormozgan region along the Strait of Hormuz. The reaction came after the US Central Command (Centcom) said American forces carried out “self-defence strikes” on Monday targeting Iranian missile sites and boats allegedly attempting to place naval mines in the strategic waterway. Iran’s foreign ministry said the Islamic Republic “will not leave any evil unanswered” and vowed to defend the country against further attacks. According to US officials cited by American media, the strikes targeted areas near Bandar Abbas, a key southern port city and home to an Iranian naval base overlooking the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media earlier reported explosions in the area, while the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) later claimed it had shot down a US drone and fired on a fighter jet that entered Iranian airspace. The latest escalation has raised uncertainty over ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at extending the ceasefire reached on April 8 after weeks of conflict between Iran, the US and Israel. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said negotiations were continuing and a deal remained possible, although it could “take a few days.” Meanwhile, President Donald Trump signalled mixed messages over the talks, first suggesting an agreement was near before later urging negotiators not to rush. US media reports said discussions are centred on a possible memorandum of understanding that could include a 60-day extension of the ceasefire, reopening the Strait of Hormuz and further negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme. Iran acknowledged some progress in the talks but said an agreement was “not imminent.” One of the major sticking points reportedly involves Tehran’s demand for the release of frozen Iranian funds held abroad. The negotiations have largely been mediated by Pakistan, while Iranian officials have also been engaged in discussions with Qatari mediators in Doha. Reuters reported that Iran’s central bank governor joined Monday’s meetings, where talks focused on frozen assets, Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium and the future of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has restricted access through the crucial shipping route since the conflict began on February 28. The Strait of Hormuz carries around one-fifth of the world’s oil supply, and disruptions there have contributed to rising global energy prices. The US, Israel and Western allies accuse Iran of enriching uranium to develop nuclear weapons, an allegation Tehran denies, insisting its nuclear activities are solely for peaceful purposes. Source: BBC

The Power Division has directed senior officials of all departments and agencies under its jurisdiction to maintain round-the-clock monitoring to ensure uninterrupted power during the Eid-ul-Azha holidays. The officials have been instructed to conduct on-site inspections of power supply condition in the areas where they will stay during the Eid vacation and provide necessary instructions where required, according to an office order. They have also been asked to submit inspection reports to the Secretary of the Power Division. To reduce public inconvenience caused by scheduled maintenance work or unexpected outages, local power distribution centres have been directed to inform consumers in advance through public announcements and social media platforms. The directive further said local mosque networks, including imams and muezzins, should be used to disseminate important information to residents. As part of the measures, the names of local mosques and contact details of the respective imams and muezzins are to be submitted to the Power Division and uploaded to the websites of the concerned distribution companies. It also said shops and shopping centres will be allowed to remain open until 10 pm during the Eid period. However, after Eid, businesses and shopping malls will again be required to close by 7 pm as part of the government’s ongoing energy-saving measures. The Power Division expressed hope that coordinated efforts by all authorities concerned would help ensure stable and normal electricity supply nationwide throughout the Eid holidays.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said negotiations with Iran over extending the ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz are expected to continue for several more days. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday before departing India, Rubio said discussions were ongoing regarding the wording of an initial agreement document following recent US strikes in southern Iran despite the existing ceasefire. “There is still a lot of back-and-forth over specific language in the draft document, so the process could take a few more days,” Rubio said. He stressed that President Donald Trump would not agree to any deal considered unfavorable to the United States. Rubio also highlighted the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, saying the strategic waterway must remain accessible for global shipping without interference or additional charges imposed by Iran. “The Strait needs to remain open and free for navigation, without any tolls,” he said.

Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad on Tuesday expressed hope that both the ruling and opposition parties will work together to present a budget, which will bring more comfort to people’s lives. “The ruling party presents the budget while the opposition criticises it. We welcome constructive criticism. I will ensure that the opposition gets adequate time to perform its duties,” he said while speaking to journalists at the Bhola Circuit House in the afternoon. The Speaker added that a spirit of cooperation between the ruling and opposition camps is essential in parliamentary democracy. “I have observed cooperation between the treasury bench and opposition MPs in the previous parliament session, and I hope it will continue in the budget session as well. Together, they can present a budget that brings more comfort to people’s lives,” he said. Expressing optimism about the current Parliament, Hafiz Uddin said it has so far been able to meet public expectations and will play an even better role in the coming days. “The people of the country have expectations from this Parliament, and I hope all members will take initiatives to fulfil those aspirations,” he added. The Speaker arrived in Bhola on a five-day tour on the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha. He made a brief stopover at the Circuit House before heading to his constituency in Lalmohan. Bhola Deputy Commissioner Dr Shamin Rahman, Zila Parishad Administrator Golam Nabi Alamgir and Superintendent of Police Md Shahidullah Kawsar were present at the time.

Fierce clashes erupted Tuesday between Israeli forces and the Iran-backed Hezbollah group along Lebanon’s strategic Litani River as Israeli troops attempted to advance farther north, days before Lebanese and Israeli military officials are scheduled to hold direct talks in Washington. The renewed fighting has further weakened an already fragile ceasefire brokered by Washington more than a month ago. The situation also threatens wider regional peace efforts linked to the ongoing Iran conflict, with Tehran insisting that any broader truce must also include Lebanon. The Litani River has long served as an unofficial dividing line in southern Lebanon, where Israeli troops still control large areas despite the ceasefire agreement. Tensions escalated after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu authorized intensified military operations against Hezbollah targets across Lebanon. The Israeli military said it carried out overnight strikes on more than 100 Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon and the eastern Bekaa Valley, targeting what it described as weapons storage facilities, command centers and observation posts used in attacks on Israeli troops and northern Israeli communities. According to Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency, one Israeli airstrike on the eastern village of Mashghara killed at least 12 people, including several members of the same family. An Israeli security official, speaking anonymously in line with military regulations, said an additional battalion had been deployed to Lebanon. Meanwhile, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for multiple rocket, artillery and explosive drone attacks targeting Israeli troops and military vehicles near the Litani River, particularly around the Nabatieh-area villages of Yohmor al-Shaqif and Zawtar al-Sharqieh. Hezbollah-affiliated Al-Manar TV reported that the group had repelled Israeli advances along the riverbanks. Israel has also intensified strikes in and around Nabatieh city, located north of the Litani River, and on Tuesday warned residents to evacuate the area. Although Beirut has largely avoided direct strikes since the ceasefire began, the latest escalation has heightened fears among residents. “Just a few words from Netanyahu on television are enough to make people panic and flee their homes,” said Tony Aboud, a resident of Beirut’s Hamra district. “We don’t know what will happen or how long we can continue living like this.”

Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Savar Model Police Station Arman Ali has been withdrawn over allegations of negligence in arresting a top drug dealer, alleged association with him, and deterioration of law-and-order situation. Confirming the matter on Tuesday noon, Dhaka’s Superintendent of Police Shamima Parvin said he has been attached to the district police lines. According to sources, on May 22, three journalists from Desh TV and SA TV went to collect news at the hideout of a top drug dealer named Shamim Reza in the Rajashan area of Savar. They were allegedly attacked and severely beaten by Shamim and his associates, leaving them injured. The injured journalists were later admitted to hospital. Although a case was filed at Savar Model Police Station naming 21 individuals, prime accused Shamim has not yet been arrested. Earlier, a sub-inspector and two assistant sub-inspectors of the police station were also withdrawn over alleged involvement with the drug dealer. Following the same incident, OC Arman Ali has now been removed from his post. Police sources said the matter is being investigated seriously and necessary legal and administrative action will be taken against those involved.

An angry mob beat a man before handing him over to police for allegedly raping his 13-year-old step-granddaughter in the Nawdapara area of Bheramara upazila in Kushtia district on Tuesday morning. The accused was identified as Shahabul Islam, 47, a resident of Joyrampur village in Daulatpur upazila. He was the second husband of the victim’s grandmother. The couple had been living in a rented house in Bheramara since their marriage. According to police and locals, the victim visited her grandmother’s house on Monday. Around 11:00am on Tuesday, when no one else was at home, Shahabul raped her. The girl’s screams alerted neighbours, who rushed to the spot and caught the accused. Enraged locals then gave a good thrashing. On information, police rushed to the scene, rescued him from the mob, and took him into custody. Kushtia Additional Superintendent of Police (Bheramara Circle) Delwar Hossain said the arrested man admitted to his guilt during preliminary interrogation. The victim has been sent to Kushtia General Hospital (250-bed) for medical examination. On information, reserved women’s seat MP Farida Yasmin visited the victim’s family.

Rashid Al-Mohanadi, vice president of the Center for International Policy Research, says there are signs that negotiations are moving in a “positive direction” to end the US-Israel war on Iran. However, he warned that “anything can go wrong” as tensions remain high. Speaking to Al Jazeera, Al-Mohanadi said the discussions are centred on a memorandum of understanding (MOU), which would establish a framework and open the door for 60 days of negotiations. “I do believe they might even need more than 60 days because many of these topics are highly technical,” he said. He also noted that post-conflict dynamics could complicate the process, as both sides are portraying themselves as victims, making longer negotiations more difficult. #By Al Jazeera 

The BNP will distribute food items and clothes among poor and destitute people at 16 locations across the capital on May 30, marking the 45th death anniversary of party founder and former President Ziaur Rahman, with BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman set to attend all the programmes as the chief guest. BNP Media Cell member Shayrul Kabir Khan told UNB on Tuesday that Tarique Rahman will distribute food items and clothes at the designated spots on the day. He said Dhaka North and South city units of BNP will organise the programmes in 15 constituencies of Dhaka and in front of the party’s Nayapaltan central office. Ministers, MPs and leaders and activists of BNP and its associate bodies will remain present at the locations. Lawyers of the Supreme Court are also expected to arrange similar programmes this year. Earlier, BNP announced an eight-day programme from May 25 to June 1, marking the 45th death anniversary of Ziaur Rahman. As part of the programmes, at 6:00am on May 30, party flags will be kept at half-mast and black flags will be hoisted at the BNP central office and other party offices across the country. At 11:00am on the same day, Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, along with party leaders and activists, will place wreaths at the grave of Ziaur Rahman and offer prayers there. After visiting the grave, they will participate in a doa mahfil to be organised by Jatiyatabadi Ulema Dal on the mausoleum premises. As part of the observance, a discussion will be held at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) auditorium at 2:00pm on May 31.

The scenic hill district of Rangamati is fully prepared to welcome a large influx of tourists during the ongoing Eid-ul-Azha holidays, with tour operators expecting a significant rise in visitors amid the government’s extended vacation. The government had announced a seven-day Eid holiday this year, prompting many travellers to plan leisure trips to popular tourist destinations across the country. Tourism businesses in Rangamati hope the long holiday will revive the local tourism economy and boost business activities. Surrounded by green hills, tranquil lakes and breathtaking natural beauty, Rangamati has long been one of the country’s most attractive travel destinations. Every year, thousands of tourists visit the district, while the pressure increases manifold during long holidays. Among the district’s most popular attractions, Sajek Valley is expected to witness the highest tourist turnout during the Eid vacation. Holidaymakers seeking relief from the stress of urban life are expected to flock to Rangamati’s lakes, hills and waterfalls. Tourist hotspots, including Sajek Valley, the iconic Hanging Bridge, Kaptai Lake, Polwel Park and Cottage, Aranyak Resort, Shuvolong Waterfall, Rangadip Resort, Lake View Island and Nisarga Pod House are likely to become vibrant with visitors during the festive break. Manager of Rangamati Tourism and Holiday Complex Alok Bikash Chakma said all preparations have already been completed to receive tourists during Eid-ul-Azha vacation. “We are fully prepared to welcome tourists. Around 70-80 percent of rooms at our holiday complex have already been booked through online and offline reservations,” he said. Bikash Chakma expressed hope that tourist arrivals will be much higher this year because of the long holiday and said efforts had been made to improve infrastructure and services to ensure maximum comfort for visitors. Sajek Valley, known for its picturesque hills and clouds, remains one of the country’s most sought-after travel destinations during holidays. Organising Secretary of the Resort and Cottage Owners’ Association of Sajek Rahul Chakma said most resort and cottage rooms in Sajek had already been booked ahead of Eid. “All rooms are booked on Eid day. From the day after Eid, around 60-70 percent of rooms have been reserved for nearly the following week,” he said. The Hanging Bridge, one of Rangamati’s most recognisable landmarks, continues to remain the centre of attraction for tourists visiting the district. Authorities have already completed renovation and repainting work to make the site more attractive ahead of the holiday season. Tourist boat operators on the Kaptai Lake have also completed preparations for visitors planning lake cruises during the Eid break. Manager of Rangamati Tourist Boat Terminal Md Fakhrul Islam said all repair, maintenance and painting work on tourist boats had already been completed. “We are now waiting to welcome tourists,” he said. Rangamati Superintendent of Police Muhammad Rakib Uddin said security arrangements had been strengthened to ensure the safety of visitors during the Eid holidays. He said help desks had been installed at important points to prevent harassment of tourists and ensure smooth travel across different tourist spots in the district. “We are fully prepared to ensure tourists can travel safely and comfortably throughout Rangamati during the Eid vacation,” the SP added.

The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has deployed 23 teams in key toll plazas, highways and congestion-prone areas across the country to help maintain law and order, ease traffic congestion and ensure safe and comfortable travel for Eid holidaymakers. As per the government’s directives, four teams have been deployed in the Elevated Expressway, Baipail and Nabinagar areas, six teams in the Padma Bridge and Dhaka-Mawa Expressway toll plaza areas, and four teams in the Meghna Bridge, Panchabati Bridge, Kanchan Bridge, Mograpara and Madanpur Mor/Kanchpur areas, BGB Public Relations Officer Shariful Islam said on Tuesday. In addition, one team has been deployed in the Gazipur Chowrasta area, two teams have been deployed at the eastern and western ends of the Jamuna Bridge, one team in the Shah Amanat Bridge area in Chattogram, one team in the Khan Jahan Ali Bridge area in Khulna, one team in the Bhairab Bridge area in Kishoreganj, two teams at the Kushtia and Pabna ends of the Lalon Shah Bridge, and one team at the Atrai Toll Plaza area in Natore. BGB members have been carrying out duties since May 21 in coordination with the local administration and other law enforcement agencies to reduce traffic congestion, maintain discipline and ensure the safe movement of people in the respective areas. The deployment will remain in place until three days after Eid.

The Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) will deploy around 16,000 workers and more than 750 waste-carrying vehicles to ensure the removal of sacrificial waste within 12 hours during Eid-ul-Azha. The announcement was made on Tuesday by DNCC Administrator Md Safiqul Islam Khan at a view-exchange meeting on Eid waste management held at the Nagar Bhaban in Gulshan. State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives Mir Shahe Alam attended the meeting as the chief guest with the DNCC Administrator in the chair. Speaking at the programme, the state minister said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has issued special directives regarding cattle markets, rawhide management, traffic congestion control and waste removal during Eid-ul-Azha. As part of the directives, city corporations have been asked to remove sacrificial waste within 12 hours, he said. The DNCC administrator said all-out preparations have been taken to clear sacrificial waste even before the government-fixed 12-hour deadline. The DNCC has already distributed 16.3 lakh polybags among residents. In addition, 3,600 sacks of bleaching powder, 1,348 cans of phenyl and 3,900 cans of Savlon have been distributed to ensure a germ-free and odour-free environment after the sacrifice. To raise public awareness, it has launched campaigns through loudspeakers, digital billboards, distribution of 50,000 leaflets and mobile SMS services. Imams at mosques are also encouraging cleanliness during Friday sermons. DNCC Chief Executive Officer Mohamad Ashaduz Zaman, Chief Engineer Brig Gen Syed Raquibul Hasan, Chief Waste Management Officer Commodore Mohammad Humayun Kabir, Chief Health Officer Brig Gen Imru-al-Quais, regional executive officers and media representatives were present at the meeting.

BRAC Bank has introduced cashless payment services at Diabari and Kamalapur cattle markets in Dhaka to facilitate withdrawal and deposit of money for buyers and traders. It has installed Digital Payment Booths at both cattle markets as part of a cashless initiative of Bangladesh Bank. Bangladesh Bank has made BRAC Bank as the Lead Bank at Diabari and Kamalapur cattle markets. At the BRAC Bank booths, the buyers and traders can withdraw and deposit to bank accounts or Mobile Financial Services (MFS), send and receive money to and from any bank, make payments through Bangla QR and POS machine, instantly open bank account and detect fake notes and avail of Agent Banking services on a 24/7 basis. These booths enable cattle traders to securely deposit sales proceeds into banks, thereby reducing the risk associated with using cash, according to a press release. At the same time, buyers are also becoming accustomed to fast and secure digital payments. Dhaka North City Corporation and Dhaka South City Corporation are partners of the cashless payment initiative.

Rainfall over the past several days has left the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) Residential Area and adjacent Bakshibazar area submerged under water, intensifying public suffering and raising concerns ahead of Eid-ul-Azha. Roads, alleys and low-lying spaces inside the BUET residential zone and nearby areas remained waterlogged on Tuesday as rainwater accumulated due to inadequate drainage system.

Police have arrested a man for allegedly attempting to rape a seven-year-old girl in a jute field in Rangpur city. The arrest of Badiuzzaman, 45, a labourer, was confirmed by Rangpur Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mohammad Abdul Mabud at a press conference on Tuesday. According to the police, the incident occurred on Monday night in the Kolabari area of Mahiganj. The accused lured the child by giving her a packet of chips and took her to a nearby jute field and attempted to rape her, but fled when local people noticed the incident. The victim’s guardian filed a case at Mahiganj Police Station in this regard. Later, police launched a drive and arrested the accused in the early hours of Tuesday. Police said Badiuzzaman lives in Dhaka and occasionally visits Rangpur.

Iran has executed a man for alleged espionage and intelligence cooperation with Israel, according to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency. The executed individual was identified as Gholamreza Khani Shekarab. He was hanged after his death sentence was upheld by Iran’s Supreme Court, the report said. The execution comes amid a continuing series of similar cases. Since the US and Israel’s war on Iran began on February 28, Tehran has reportedly executed several individuals convicted on charges of spying for Israel. Human rights organisations have strongly criticised the recent spate of hangings in Iran. Rights activists have long accused Iran of being the world’s second most prolific executioner after China. Authorities in Iran have not provided additional details regarding the specific allegations in Shekarab’s case beyond the reported espionage charges, according to the media report. Source : Al Jazeera 

Thousands of Eid holidaymakers are returning home in the northern region comfortably through the Sirajganj corridor ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, enjoying a smooth and hassle-free journey despite heavy traffic pressure on roads. Since early Tuesday, long-route buses, trucks, microbuses and other vehicles have been moving steadily through the district, known as the main gateway to the northern region. However, unlike previous years, no major traffic congestion was seen on the highways, bringing relief to passengers and drivers alike. Commuters said improved road infrastructure and strict traffic management helped ensure uninterrupted travel this Eid. Several homebound passengers travelling through the Jamuna Bridge route said the journey has been smooth and comfortable this year and they did not have to suffer in long traffic jams like before. Drivers also expressed satisfaction, saying the four-lane expansion of the Jamuna Bridge west approach highway, flyovers and the Hatikumrul Interchange significantly reduced congestion on the busy route. To ensure safe and uninterrupted movement of vehicles, around 700 police personnel have been deployed at different important points of the highways in the district. Police patrol and monitoring activities have also been intensified day and night. Officer-in-Charge of Jamuna Bridge West Police Station Amirul Islam and Hatikumrul Highway Police Station OC Ismail Hossain said all necessary measures were taken to make Eid travel safe, smooth and comfortable for homebound people. Security arrangements were strengthened at key points, including the Jamuna Bridge roundabout area, while surveillance was increased on different routes connected to the Hatikumrul Interchange, they said. Additional Superintendent of Highway Police Delwar Hossain said district police and highway police members were jointly working round the clock to maintain smooth traffic movement on the highways. A monitoring and instruction booth has also been set up at the Hatikumrul Interchange, from where drivers are being given directions through loudspeakers to prevent congestion and ensure uninterrupted travel, he added. Meanwhile, a total of 53,246 vehicles crossed the Jamuna Bridge in the last 24 hours, generating a revenue of Tk 3.77 crore in tolls, said Jamuna Bridge Executive Engineer (Site Officer) Syed Riaz Uddin.

A Bangladeshi expatriate has succumbed to injuries he suffered in a road accident in Dubai of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The deceased was identified as Md Nur-e-Alam, 32, son of Ayet Ali of Gobindapur village in Burichang upazila of Cumilla. Family sources said the accident occurred on May 18 while Nur-e-Alam and 11 other workers were returning from work in a company microbus. A fuel-laden vehicle reportedly hit the microbus from behind, leaving several passengers critically injured. The injured were admitted to a local hospital, where Nur-e-Alam died on Monday morning while undergoing treatment. Three deaths have so far been reported in the incident. According to family sources, Nur-e-Alam had been working in Dubai for around six years to support his family. He returned to Bangladesh on leave six months ago and later went back to his workplace. He is survived by his wife and a 17-month-old son. The family has appealed to the authorities concerned to bring back his body back at the earliest.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday said Eid-ul-Azha promotes equality, generosity and mutual harmony, urging people to extend support to the poor and helpless during the festival. In a message marking Eid-ul-Azha, he also extended greetings to Muslims in Bangladesh and elsewhere across the world. “I wish all continuous happiness, peace and prosperity.” Fakhrul, also the local government, rural development and co-operatives minister, said Eid-ul-Azha, one of the two biggest religious festivals of Muslims, is known as the festival of sacrifice and it teaches devotion and obedience to Almighty Allah. He said the significance of Eid-ul-Azha lies in attaining closeness to Allah through sacrifice. The ministers said Muslims across the world unite in the celebration of Eid-ul-Azha, while the sacrifice of animals symbolises the spirit of removing evil from the mind and leading a simple and modest life to attain the pleasure of Almighty Allah. “The noble lesson of sacrifice should inspire us to surrender ourselves to Almighty Allah and dedicate ourselves to the welfare of humanity,” he said. Fakhrul said the main lesson of Eid-ul-Azha is to show deep love and unconditional obedience to Almighty Allah. He said Eid-ul-Azha inspires Muslims to become devoted servants of Allah, while every festival helps expand human values and generosity beyond religion and race. The BNP leader also said festivals unite people in a strong bond of harmony and bring society from the darkness of division towards the light of humanity. “So, the festival of Eid-ul-Azha, illuminated by the glory of sacrifice, promotes equality, generosity and mutual harmony. Let us pledge to rise above selfish interests and extend our support to the poor and helpless on this occasion of joy, sacrifice and celebration,” he said. Fakhrul also prayed for peace, happiness and prosperity for all. “May Eid-ul-Azha make everyone’s life joyful.”

Police arrested the caretaker of a mango orchard early Tuesday for allegedly raping a Class-IV schoolboy when he went to pick mangoes at the garden in Kumarkhali upazila. The arrestee is Wahed Ali, 50, son of late Rajab Ali Biswas of Tarapur village in the upazila. Later in the day, a court sent him to jail when police produced him before it. The alleged incident took place on Sunday morning. According to locals, the boy went to the field with goats and later entered the orchard to collect mangoes. The accused allegedly raped him there. The boy later narrated the incident to his mother. Local influential figures pressured the family to settle the matter through a salish (village arbitration), which was scheduled for Monday evening. However, police rushed to the village following information and foiled arbitration. Later, the victim’s father filed a case under the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act at Kumarkhali Police Station on Monday night. Following the case, police arrested the accused in the early hours of Tuesday.

The Israeli military has claimed that it conducted overnight strikes on more than 100 targets across Lebanon, including the Bekaa Valley and several areas in southern Lebanon. In a statement, the military said the attacks hit weapons depots, observation posts and command centres allegedly used by Hezbollah. It further confirmed that a series of strikes were also carried out in the Mashghara area. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s National News Agency reported that at least 12 people were killed in the Mashghara strikes, media says. The Israeli military did not immediately provide details on casualties or damage, but said the operations were part of its ongoing actions against Hezbollah positions in Lebanon. Source: Al Jazeera 

Dhaka North city BNP Convener and State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Haque on Tuesday provided Eid assistance and gifts for the families of BNP leaders and activists who were victims of enforced disappearance, killing and martyrdom during political movements. The assistance and gifts were distributed at his political office in the Eastern Housing area of Mirpur in the capital ahead of Eid-ul-Azha. At the programme, Aminul Haque spoke personally with the family members and listened to their current condition, family crises and various problems. He said the families of leaders and activists who made sacrifice for political movements will never be left alone and BNP will always stand by them. “Those who sacrificed their lives or became victims of enforced disappearance and repression during the movements for democracy and voting rights have families toward whom we have a moral responsibility,” the state minister said. “We organised this small initiative out of a sense of humanity so that the joy of Eid reaches their homes as well,” he added. Family members of the victims also expressed their gratitude for the sympathy and support extended to them.

A delegation of 20 young leaders from BNP, comprising youth, women, and student representatives, is set to visit China from June 4 to 14 as part of a study and exchange programme. The delegation, at the invitation of the Chinese government, will visit Chongqing and Shanghai to observe China’s practices and achievements, including the development of new quality productive forces, high-quality development, high-level opening up, rural revitalization, and grassroots governance. Local leaders, scholars, and experts from renowned think tanks will meet the Bangladeshi delegation of young leaders from BNP, Jubo Dal, and Chhatra Dal. A formal invitation was sent by Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen to BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on May 14, a political source told UNB. The delegation members are Md Minhazul Islam Bhuiya, Khandaker Enamul Haque, Sharif Uddin, Galib Hasan Pritom, Arafat Billah Khan, Mehedi Hasan Jewel, Shyamal Malum, Zahirul Islam, ABM Ejazul Kabir Ruel, and Md Manjurul Alam. Other members include Abidul Islam Khan, Sheikh Tanvir Bari Hamim, Abdur Rashid, Aiyubur Rahman, Shraboni Akter, Naoshin Nahar, Selima Binte Tarin, Tanzila Hossain, Rabeya Tashin Mou, and Jannatul Nowreen Urmi. “In the past three months since the new government took office, Bangladesh and China have continued their long-standing friendship and deepened cooperation across various sectors,” Ambassador Yao Wen said recently. Earlier, a high-level BNP delegation led by Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, who is also LGRD and Cooperatives Minister, visited China. The Ambassador said the Communist Party of China and the BNP enhanced institutional exchanges and deepened mutual learning on state governance during the visit. This year, China will organize 23 bilateral and 30 multilateral training programs, providing training opportunities for nearly 600 Bangladeshi participants. The programmes will cover a wide range of sectors, including telecommunications and information technology, renewable energy, cross-border e-commerce, road transportation, agriculture, tourism, and education.

Bangladesh will import more than 500 thousand tonnes of muriate of potash (MOP) fertiliser in the fiscal year 2026-27 from Russia.  Russia's Prodintorg and Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC) signed an agreement recently to import more than 500 thousand tonnes of muriate of potash (MOP) fertiliser in FY2026-27. On behalf of Russia, Ambassador Alexandr Khozin and representatives of Ministry of Agriculture and Prodintorg were present at the signing ceremony.  From Bangladeshi side, the event was attended by the Agriculture Secretary Dr Rafiqul I Mohamed, along with representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and BADC.  As part of previous arrangements with Prodintorg, BADC has been importing MOP fertiliser from Russia for several years. This is the major agreement in the history of Bangladesh-Russia bilateral intergovernmental cooperation in the field of fertilisers, said the Russian Embassy in Dhaka. 

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Tuesday warned of stringent action against those involved in recent attacks on Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) personnel in Chattogram’s Jungle Salimpur area, reaffirming the government’s zero-tolerance policy against terrorism, extortion and organised crime. “Criminal activities will be dealt with firmly and the public will soon see the results of effective government action,” he said while briefing reporters after visiting the National Operation Monitoring Centre at Police Headquarters in Dhaka. The minister said attempts by criminal groups to create ‘a state within a state’ has been thwarted through joint security operations and that law enforcement agencies would continue their efforts to ensure public safety and uphold the rule of law. He said a large cache of illegal firearms have been recovered and a number of wanted criminals arrested during operations in the area. The government is also planning to establish a security and administrative hub in Jungle Salimpur including a police academy, a RAB training academy, a police sports complex and a prison, he added. During the visit, the minister observed ongoing monitoring activities and issued directives to police officials on duty. Salahuddin said the government would continue its crackdown on terrorism, narcotics, extortion and other criminal activities as part of its commitment to maintaining law and order. Law enforcement agencies remain fully prepared to restore peace and discipline across the country, he said. The minister said the Central Monitoring Cell at Police Headquarters which operates year-round has been reinforced for the Eid-ul-Azha period, from seven days before the festival until seven days after. Additional personnel have been deployed to monitor highways, cattle markets and key infrastructures, including the Jamuna and Padma bridges and major expressways nationwide, he said. He also noted that police officers are using body-worn cameras in areas lacking CCTV coverage to ensure uninterrupted surveillance along highways. On road safety, Salahuddin said traffic accidents have declined compared with previous years. Referring to a recent fatal accident involving a truck carrying iron rods, he said the tragedy highlighted the dangers of unsafe travel practices and urged people to exercise greater caution while travelling. The minister also said authorities are taking strict measures against unauthorised cattle markets. An illegal cattle market set up beneath the Metro Rail line in Mirpur was recently shut down immediately after being detected, he added. To prevent the circulation of counterfeit currency at cattle markets, sufficient fake-note detection machines have been installed in coordination with Bangladesh Bank, commercial banks and law enforcement agencies, he said. Responding to a question about long queues at the Jamuna Bridge toll plaza, the minister attributed the delays to manual toll collection and suggested introducing automated digital payment systems, including card-based toll payments, along with incentives to encourage their use.

Ten more children died from measles and similar symptoms in Bangladesh in 24 hours till 8:00 am on Tuesday, taking the total death toll to 555 since 15th March 2026. Of the new deaths, one was confirmed as measles-related while the remaining nine were classified as suspected, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Among the suspected deaths, the highest three were reported in Dhaka division. With these, the total number of confirmed deaths from measles has risen to 88 while suspected deaths have reached 467, it said. According to DGHS data, a total of 1,083suspected measles cases were recorded in the last 24 hours, taking the overall suspected cases to 66,023. During the same period, 53 new confirmed measles cases were reported, bringing the total number of confirmed infections to 8,772. Since March 15, a total of 52,530 suspected measles patients were hospitalised, of whom 48,800 have recovered. A nationwide emergency measles-rubella vaccination campaign was launched on April  aimed at addressing the ongoing outbreak. Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain inaugurated the vaccination campaign.  The initiative aims to vaccinate around 1.8 crore children aged 6 months to under 5 years across the country. On April 5, the government, with support from UNICEF, WHO and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, launched an emergency measles-rubella vaccination campaign to protect more than 1.2 million children aged 6 months to 5 years in 30 upazilas in 18 high-risk districts. On May 11, Health Minister Sardar Md. Sakhawat Husain said the measles situation is expected to come under control within four weeks as vaccinated people will develop immunity during this period. The number of patients has already started declining, he said while talking to reporters after visiting Barishal Sadar Hospital .  

The joy of returning home for Eid-ul-Azha turned into heartbreak for three members of a family on Tuesday morning as a bus rammed into a motorbike carrying them on Dhaka-Barishal highway in Gouranadi of Barishal district. The deceased were identified as Firoz Hawladar, 36, son of Hakim Hawladar, his wife Monira Begum, 28 and their daughter Jannat, 10 of Ujirpur upazila. The accident occurred in the morning when the Barishal-bound bus of ‘Taj Ananda Paribahan’ hit the motorbike carrying the family while they were going to their home village to celebrate Eid, leaving them dead, said Mizanur Rahman, Station Officer of Gouranadi Fire Service and Civil Defence. Following the accident, locals vandalised the bus, prompting bus driver to flee the scene.

Naogaon, May 26 (UNB)- Wails and tears have gripped Rajendrabati village in Manda upazila of Naogaon as six victims of a tragic road accident in Tangail were laid to rest on Tuesday. Six of the deceased were buried side by side after a namaz-e-janaza in the village early in the morning. The entire village turned into a scene of grief as bodies of the victims arrived one after another, with relatives and locals gathering in large numbers to catch a final glimpse of their loved ones.  Rows of coffins were placed in open fields as mourners broke down in tears. Local residents said they had never witnessed such a mass tragedy in the area before. The air in Rajendrabati and surrounding villages of Manda remained heavy with mourning as relatives from distant areas rushed home for the last rites.  Women and children were seen crying uncontrollably beside the bodies, while others stood in silence, stunned by the scale of the loss. The victims were among 10 people from Naogaon killed early Monday when a truck carrying iron rods overturned on the Dhaka–Tangail highway in Kalihati upazila of Tangail. The accident left 15 people dead in total. After post-mortem examinations at Tangail General Hospital, the bodies were handed over to families on Monday evening and reached Rajendrabati early Tuesday. At around 10:45am, the six bodies were brought to a field in Rajendrabati, where a single janaza was held before burial.  The remaining four were buried following separate funeral prayers in their home villages. Thousands of people from nearby villages joined the funeral prayers, along with local administration and police officials. Rajshahi Divisional Commissioner Dr A N M Belalur Rashid, DIG of Rajshahi Range Mohammad Shahjahan, MPs Dr Ikramul Bari Tipu and Mostafizur Rahman, Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Saiful Islam, Superintendent of Police Mohammad Tariqul Islam, Upazila Nirbahi Officer Akhtar Jahan Sathi and Manda Police Station OC Khorshed Alam were among those present. The Divisional Commissioner said the government has already provided Tk 25,000 and relief assistance to each affected family, adding that all possible support would be ensured. “This is an extremely heartbreaking incident. We are all deeply saddened. Losing six people from one village together is truly devastating,” he said. He also assured continued administrative support for the bereaved families. The victims were returning home to celebrate Eid with their families when the accident occurred early Monday at Saratail in Kalihati.   

Outgoing Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma has paid floral tribute to poet Kazi Nazrul Islam on the occasion of his 127th birth anniversary.  He said the poems of Kazi Nazrul Islam will remain etched in the collective memory of both Bangladesh and India.  The envoy made the remarks while inaugurating the High Commission of India (HCI) Library at the Indian Cultural Centre, Gulshan Avenue, Dhaka on Monday. The High Commissioner expressed hope that the HCI Library would continue to serve as a welcoming space for all who believe in the enduring power of books and ideas. The HCI Library, one of the oldest libraries in independent Bangladesh, has long served as a window for the dissemination of knowledge and information on Indian art, culture, economy, literature, history, politics, and other fields, said the High Commission on Tuesday.  The newly opened HCI library houses a rich collection of books in English, Hindi, and Bengali. The library will remain open to members from Sunday to Thursday, between 9:00 AM and 5:30 PM.  Bharat Bichitra (monthly magazine), published by HCI Dhaka, will also be available to library members. The event ended with a cultural performance featuring musical renditions of Nazrul songs by Bangladeshi singer Avijit Kundu. The High Commissioner has already left Dhaka for Brussels to take up his new assignment, a diplomatic source told UNB on Tuesday. Pranay Verma, who has recently been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Belgium and the European Union, said Bangladesh will remain one of their most cherished postings because of the warm affection and friendship they received here. India has appointed Dinesh Trivedi as the next High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs announced the appointment recently, noting that he is expected to take up the assignment shortly. Pranay Verma, who previously served as India’s Ambassador to Vietnam, arrived in Dhaka on September 21, 2022. Trivedi served as Union Minister for Railways and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare during the UPA regime as a member of the Trinamool Congress (TMC). He resigned from the TMC on February 12, 2021, and joined the BJP on March 6, 2021.

Director General of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) Additional IGP Md Ahsan Habib Palash on Tuesday said the overall security situation in the country is normal ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, with no specific threat detected so far. “We are not sensing any threat at the moment,” he told reporters at the National Eidgah Maidan on the premises of the Supreme Court in Dhaka. He said the situation remains normal and no unusual activity has been observed so far. “Still, we have our own security measures and operational arrangements in place,” he added. “We are making efforts within our capacity, alongside other law enforcement agencies. Security will be strengthened at locations where large gatherings are expected,” he said. He expressed hope that all Eid congregations would be completed peacefully without any untoward incidents this year. Regarding RAB’s special preparations, he said the force is continuing its regular operations and preventive measures as usual. Although no specific threat has been identified, RAB remains fully prepared with operational strategies and contingency plans, he added. On security in the capital during the Eid holidays, he said incidents of theft and burglary often rise as city residents travel to their village homes. “To prevent such crimes, our patrol will be intensified both day and night. Intelligence surveillance will also continue,” he said. He urged citizens to seek assistance through the RAB control room or the national emergency service 999 in case of any suspicious incidents, adding that the force is ready to respond at any time. The DG said extensive security measures have been taken nationwide in coordination with other law enforcement agencies ahead of Eid-ul-Azha. He said intensified patrolling is underway in key and vulnerable areas, while mobile check-posts have been set up at strategic locations to strengthen security and conduct searches. RAB has also stepped up intelligence monitoring and online surveillance to prevent illegal hoarding, price manipulation, food adulteration and the circulation of counterfeit goods during the Eid period. Additional security measures have been taken in metropolitan cities, district towns and upazilas to curb theft, robbery and mugging during the holidays, he said. He added that surveillance has been increased at cattle markets to prevent public harassment, while drives against counterfeit currency syndicates are also ongoing ahead of Eid. Special monitoring is being carried out at bus terminals, railway stations, launch terminals and ferry ghats to ensure safe movement of homebound passengers. He also said RAB is working to prevent cattle-laden vehicles from being forcibly diverted to specific markets and is monitoring social media to curb rumours or misleading information related to Eid.

An Eid-ul-Azha congregation will be held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad on Thursday morning. The Eid jamaat will begin at 7:30am on the South Plaza premises, according to the Parliament Secretariat. Members of parliament, officials and employees of the Parliament Secretariat along with devotees from surrounding areas are expected to join the prayers. The Parliament Secretariat requested all concerned to attend the congregation on time. Muslims attending the Eid prayers have been requested to come with complete prayer preparations, including performing ablution beforehand. For security and discipline, people have also been urged not to carry any bags or other items except prayer mats, mobile phones and umbrellas if necessary.

Tea workers at four tea gardens in Habiganj began an indefinite strike on Tuesday pressing home a seven-point demand, including payment of outstanding wages, rations and festival bonuses. The work stoppage began in the morning at the Deundi, Lalchand, Mrityinga and Noapara tea gardens in Chunarughat and Madhabpur upazilas. Workers said around 5,000 labourers across the four gardens have been facing severe hardship due to irregular payment of weekly wages over the past several weeks. They alleged that many families are struggling to survive as the management has failed to clear dues and ensure basic facilities. According to workers, a tripartite meeting involving garden authorities, labour representatives and officials of the Labour Department was held in Srimangal on May 6.  The meeting reportedly decided to clear all outstanding payments without delay. The meeting also discussed repairing dilapidated workers’ housing ahead of the monsoon, ensuring medical facilities in line with labour laws, and clearing pending wages, rations, provident fund contributions and weekly payments. However, workers said the decisions were not implemented, prompting labourers from the four gardens under the Deundi company to launch the strike. Apon Santal, president of the Panchayat Committee of Deundi Tea Garden, said workers under the company have long been deprived of their dues and basic rights. He alleged that despite repeated assurances from the management, no effective steps have been taken to resolve their problems.

Jim Henson's Creature Shop, the famed workshop behind many iconic children’s characters, has opened its Queens studio to public tours for the first time, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the art of puppet-making. Founded by Jim Henson, the creator of the Muppets, the studio has long operated behind closed doors, crafting puppets, costumes and props by hand. The newly launched 80-minute Saturday tours, priced at $150 per person, allow guests to meet puppet builders, watch live puppetry demonstrations and take photos with well-known characters. Creative supervisor Jason Weber said the tours aim to spotlight the highly skilled artisans behind the productions. Workshop director Melissa Creighton added that every creation is custom-made and handcrafted. The tour begins in a specially designed exhibit room featuring props and characters, including Oscar the Grouch in his trash can, a throne from The Dark Crystal and Junior Gorg from Fraggle Rock. The workshop, located in Queens since 2009, is currently producing costumes and props for several projects, including a new “Fraggle Rock” musical near Times Square. Past productions include Five Nights at Freddy's, Where the Wild Things Are and the TV sitcom Dinosaurs.

Two motorcyclists were killed when an unknown vehicle hit their motorcycle while they were heading towards Sylhet for a trip on the Dhaka-Sylhet highway in Madhabpur upazila of Habiganj district early Tuesday. The deceased were identified as Abul Bashar, 35, son of Abdul Baten of Narayanganj district, and Ashique Ahmed, 25, son of Selim Mia of Khilkhet area in the capital. The accident occurred around 1am in front of the Saheb Bari Gate Bus Stand area when an unknown vehicle hit the motorcycle they were riding, leaving them dead on the spot, said Shubhoranjan Chakma, Officer-in-Charge of Shayestaganj Highway Police. On information, police recovered the bodies and handed them over to the family members of the deceased.  

Eid homebound passengers experienced relatively smoother travel on a 105-kilometre stretch of Dhaka–Chattogram highway in Cumilla on the second day of the government holiday on Tuesday. From the morning, traffic volume on the highway increased significantly compared to normal days as people continued leaving the capital for their hometowns with family members. However, passengers said reaching destinations was still taking longer than usual due to heavy traffic pressure on certain sections of the road. At around 12pm, traffic movement remained largely normal from Meghna-Gomti Bridge toll plaza in Daudkandi to Padua in Chauddagram upazila. Despite overall smooth flow, movement was intermittently disrupted at several points, including Gouripur, Madhaiya, Chandina, Cantonment area, Alekharchar, Padua Bazar, Mia Bazar and Chauddagram, as vehicles frequently picked up and dropped off passengers on the roadside, causing minor congestion. Both passengers and drivers said the journey was comparatively better than expected, though delays persisted in some sections due to increased Eid travel pressure and roadside stoppages.

Inter Miami confirmed Monday that Lionel Messi is dealing with an overload linked to muscle fatigue in his left hamstring, creating uncertainty ahead of Argentina’s World Cup preparations. Messi underwent medical examinations, reportedly including an MRI, after being unable to finish Inter Miami’s MLS match against the Philadelphia Union on Sunday. The club said the Argentine captain was substituted because of “physical discomfort.” “The timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress,” Inter Miami said in a statement. Messi left the field in the 73rd minute after appearing uncomfortable moments earlier and grabbing the back of his left leg. He walked off without assistance and headed straight to the locker room. Inter Miami won the match 6-4, with Messi providing two first-half assists. Heavy rain during the second half left the field slippery, though it remains unclear whether conditions contributed to the injury. Argentina are scheduled to play friendlies against Honduras on June 6 and Iceland on June 9 before opening their World Cup Group J campaign against Algeria on June 16. The defending champions will also face Austria and Jordan in the group stage. Messi has played in five World Cups and won the Golden Ball twice.

Economists and sector experts have urged the government to prioritize the agriculture sector in the upcoming national budget for the fiscal year FY2026-27, warning that the continued decline in budgetary allocation could jeopardize long-term food security and inflation control. The call comes ahead of the national budget announcement scheduled for June 11, with a projected outlay of nearly Tk 9.38 lakh crore. Despite being a key economic driver that ensures food security, generates 40 percent of total employment, and keeps the rural economy functional, agriculture's share in the national budget has been under 10 percent for the last 14 consecutive fiscal years. In the ongoing FY 2025-26, the allocation plummeted to a record low of just 5.9 percent, according to an official document. Expressing deep concern over this trend, the Bangladesh Agricultural Economists Association has demanded an allocation of at least 9.5 percent of the upcoming budget for agriculture, which would amount to roughly Tk 88,350 crore. Professor ASM Golam Hafeez, a prominent faculty member at the Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) and General Secretary of the Bangladesh Agricultural Economists Association (BAEA), recently shared substantial policy recommendations for the national budget of FY2026-27. Professor Hafeez pointed out a worrying downward trend over the last three fiscal years, highlighting that agriculture's share in the national budget dropped from 8.7 percent in FY2022-23 to just 5.9 percent in the current fiscal year, FY2025-26. He urged the government to bump this allocation back up to 9.5 percent for the upcoming budget FY2026-27. Given a projected national budget of Tk 9.3 lakh crore, this 9.5 percent allocation would translate to approximately Tk 88,350 crore for the agricultural sector. A major highlight of his recent budget recommendation was the call to significantly expand input subsidies due to soaring farming expenses. Professor Hafeez demanded that the government increase agricultural subsidies to Tk 35,000 crore for the budget of FY2026-27. This is more than double the current allocation of Tk 17241 crore. He argued that global energy market instabilities, geopolitical tensions (particularly involving Iran and the Strait of Hormuz), and exchange rate volatility have sharply driven up the import costs of fertilizer, fuel, seeds, and agricultural machinery—placing immense financial strain on farmers. Talking with UNB, Tawfiqul Islam Khan, a Senior Research Fellow and Additional Research Director of CPD, said that the government has to increase allocation in the agricultural sector, considering the global geopolitical situation and its impact on food security. “Bangladesh has a huge population despite limited agricultural land, flash floods and other natural disaster is occurred in every season, so the budget allocation should focus on additional food production to keep macroeconomic stability,” he pointed out. He said that eroding crop land and the high cost of production have forced farmers to reduce crop production to recover from loss. In this case, the budget should emphasize keeping the price of agriculture impute rational for encouraging agricultural production at the national level.  Widening Gap in Allocations and Subsidies: While agriculture contributes roughly 11 percent to the GDP, fiscal support has failed to keep pace with the growing economy. In FY 2011-12, the agricultural sector received 10.65 percent of the total budget. This dwindled to 8.7 percent in FY 2022-23 and hit 5.9 percent this fiscal year. Furthermore, the actual crop sector received only Tk 27,224 crore—a mere 3.45 percent of the total budget—out of the Tk 46,268 crore allocated across five agriculture-related ministries. Concurrently, agricultural subsidies saw a decline, dropping from Tk 17,261 crore in FY 2024-25 to Tk 17,241 crore in the current fiscal year, said Tawfiqul of CPD. "Agricultural subsidy is not an expense; it is a long-term investment," noted prominent agricultural economist Professor Jahangir Alam. He warned that lower investments will inevitably suppress production, increase import dependency, and aggravate food inflation, which has hovered above 10 percent for most of the last four years, he opined. Structural Shifts and Market Bottlenecks: Experts pointed out that while farmers have significantly ramped up the production of rice, vegetables, fish, maize, and potatoes, they are continually deprived of fair prices due to the dominance of middlemen and lack of state storage facilities. The current public warehouse capacity stands at only 22 lakh tonnes against an immediate national requirement of at least 60 lakh tonnes. The lack of cold chains and processing industries results in massive post-harvest losses every year. The nature of Bangladesh’s agriculture is also shifting structurally. The crop sector's share in agricultural GDP has fallen from over 75 percent post-independence to around 46 percent today, with fisheries, livestock, and forestry gaining rapid ground. However, skyrocketing prices of animal feed and poultry medication have left dairy and poultry farmers under severe strain, said Professor Hafeez. Climate Vulnerability and Mechanization Slowdown: The sector faces growing threats from climate change. This year, early flash floods and heavy rainfall severely damaged Boro paddy crops across the vast Haor (wetland) regions, crippling farmers' incomes. Experts have strongly recommended emergency compensation funds, weather-resilient crop varieties, and the introduction of comprehensive agricultural insurance. Additionally, the government's agricultural mechanization subsidy project has largely stagnated. Policy analysts suggested setting up union-based agricultural machinery banks to help marginalized farmers and offering tax exemptions to boost domestic manufacturing of machinery spare parts. Currently, Bangladesh spends a mere 0.4 percent of its agricultural GDP on research and development, compared to the 3 to 5 percent spent by many developing nations. To deliver a truly farmer-friendly fiscal plan, experts summarized that the upcoming budget must elevate agricultural financing to at least 10 percent, raise subsidies to Tk 40,000 crore, digitize the procurement system via a national farmer database, and fast-track investments in climate-smart technologies.  

A day after a devastating fire tore through the Kalshi slum in the capital, survivors were seen sifting through the charred remains of their homes on Tuesday (May 26), searching desperately for anything that could still be salvaged. The blaze has reduced entire clusters of makeshift dwellings to ashes, destroying homes, furniture, and everyday essentials of multiple families.  

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecast moderately heavy to heavy rainfall at places over Rangpur, Rajshahi, Dhaka,Mymensingh, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions in the next 24 hours starting from 9:00am on Tuesday. “Light to moderate rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty or squally wind and lightning flashes is likely to occur at many places over Rangpur, Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions; at a few places over Rajshahi, Dhaka and Chattogram divisions and at one or two places over Khulna and Barishal divisions,” it said. The highest rainfall in the last 24 hours till 6:00am on Tuesday was recorded in Srimangal at 130mm, the bulletin said. Besides, a mild heat wave is sweeping over the districts of Khulna, Satkhira, Jashore, Chuadanga and Lakshmipur and it may continue. Day temperature may remain nearly unchanged and night temperature may rise slightly over the country.    

River ports in some regions have been asked to hoist cautionary signal No 2 as a temporary west or northwesterly squalls wind is likely to occur in many parts of the country, according to the special bulletin Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD). According to the BMD special bulleting, “Rain or thunder showers temporary West/or Northwesterly squalls speed 60-80 kph is likely to occur over the regions of Tangail, Mymensingh, Dhaka, Faridpur, Cumilla and Noakhali wherein river ports shall hoist riverine warning signal no two,” it said. Besides, rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary West or Northwesterly gusty or Squally wind speed 45-60 kph is likely to occur elsewhere over the country wherein river ports shall hoist cautionary signal no one (R) one. The warning for Inland River ports to remain valid till 6 pm on Tuesday, according to a bulletin.    

Drishyam 3 Box Office Collection Day 5: First Monday Report Card Of Mohanlal's FilmDrishyam 3 is the third instalment in the popular crime drama franchise. Mohanlal's Drishyam 3 was released in India on May 21. The film had a decent opening at the box office and maintained its successful run over the next few days. On its first Monday, the crime drama saw a slight dip in its collections. The movie minted Rs 7.35 crore across 4,684 shows on its day 5, according to Sacnilk. Drishyam 3's total gross collection now stands at Rs 71.74 crore, while its total India net collection is Rs 61.80 crore so far. Overseas, the film collected Rs 6 crore on Day 5, taking its total overseas gross collection to Rs 84.40 crore. This pushes the worldwide gross collection to Rs 156.14 crore. Drishyam 3 recorded an overall Malayalam occupancy of 43.56% on Monday. It registered 26.33% occupancy for the morning shows. The momentum continued with 40.42% footfall in the afternoon shows and 52.67% in the evening shows. The night shows recorded 54.83% occupancy, the report added. Drishyam 3 is the third instalment in the globally successful franchise. Ahead of the film's release, Mohanlal hinted at the possibility of more instalments in the future. Speaking at the trailer launch event, the actor said, "I have asked for Georgekutty to be saved multiple times, but he is still not saved. So you can expect a Drishyam 4 also." He clarified that the idea was not meant as a light-hearted remark. “This is not a joke. Let people watch the film and let them decide whether we should do a sequel, like four or five,” Mohanlal added. Directed by Jeethu Joseph, the Drishyam franchise first began in 2013. Mohanlal returned as Georgekutty in the 2021 sequel, followed by Drishyam 3. Set a few years after the second film, the plot follows Georgekutty, whose novel becomes a hit film. The success brings increased media attention and far-reaching societal consequences. The cast also includes Meena as Rani George, Ansiba Hassan as Anju George and Esther Anil as Anu George. The film is produced by Antony Perumbavoor under his production banner, Aashirvad Cinemas. Source: NDTV

More than 1.6 million Muslim pilgrims assembled Tuesday at the Plain of Arafat for the most significant spiritual stage of the Hajj pilgrimage, according to reports from the Saudi Press Agency. Beginning at dawn on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah, worshippers made their way to Arafat, where they devoted the day to prayer, reciting the Qur’an, remembering God and offering supplications. Pilgrims remained within the sacred boundaries of the site until sunset. Known in Islamic tradition as the core ritual of Hajj, the gathering at Arafat — called Wuquf Arafah — is regarded as the pilgrimage’s defining moment. Prophet Muhammad emphasized its importance by stating, “Hajj is Arafah.” Religious scholars describe the occasion as one of the holiest days in Islam, associated with mercy, forgiveness and spiritual purification. The day also commemorates the Farewell Pilgrimage of Prophet Muhammad in A.D. 632, when he delivered his final sermon at Mount Arafat, stressing justice, equality and the protection of life and property. At midday, pilgrims listened to the Arafah sermon, which offered spiritual guidance and highlighted the virtues of the sacred day. Worshippers later combined and shortened the Dhuhr and Asr prayers in accordance with the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad. Throughout the day, pilgrims engaged in prayer, recited the Talbiyah and Takbeer, and sought forgiveness in a deeply reflective and humble atmosphere. Located around 20 kilometers southeast of Makkah, Arafat is a vast plain centered around Jabal Al-Rahmah, also known as the Mount of Mercy, where many pilgrims gather for contemplation and worship. Islamic tradition links the site to the reunion of Adam and Eve, giving it profound spiritual significance for Muslims around the world. The journey to Arafat followed the Day of Tarwiyah in Mina, where pilgrims spent Monday preparing mentally and physically for the most demanding stage of Hajj. Saudi officials implemented extensive operational measures to ensure pilgrims’ safety and smooth movement, including crowd management systems, transportation services, healthcare support and emergency response teams across the holy sites. Health authorities also remained vigilant as temperatures climbed above 45 degrees Celsius, advising pilgrims to stay hydrated and minimize direct exposure to the sun. After sunset, pilgrims departed Arafat for Muzdalifah, where they were expected to combine and shorten the Maghrib and Isha prayers before spending the night resting and worshipping ahead of the symbolic stoning ritual. Source: Arab News

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked 4th on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI index of 119 at 10:38 am on Tuesday. Dhaka’s air was classified as 'unhealthy for sensitive group', according to the air quality and pollution city ranking. India's Delhi and Kolkata and Uganda’s Kampala occupied the first, second and third spots in the list, with AQI scores of 183, 132 and 127, respectively. When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', while a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents. The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them. The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon.  

The rush of homebound holidaymakers ahead of Eid-ul-Azha intensified on the two major highways passing through Gazipur on Tuesday. From the morning, slow-moving traffic and sporadic tailbacks were reported on both the Dhaka–Mymensingh and Dhaka–Tangail highways as thousands of travellers left the capital to celebrate Eid with their families. Commuters faced difficulties at Chandra Trimor, Safipur, Board Bazar, Bhogra and Chandana Chowrasta areas, where heavy vehicular pressure significantly slowed traffic movement. A long queue of northbound vehicles stretching several kilometres was seen around Chandra Trimor. Vehicles also moved intermittently along the Safipur–Chandra flyover section and the Chandra–Nabinagar road due to congestion. The situation worsened as around 40 to 42 percent of industrial establishments in Gazipur began their Eid holidays on Monday, triggering a simultaneous exodus of workers from the industrial hub. Passenger crowds swelled at bus terminals and roadside stoppages throughout the district. Drivers and passengers said traffic congestion was further aggravated by passengers boarding and disembarking on highways and by irregular parking of vehicles at busy points. Many travellers also alleged that transport operators were charging fares higher than the approved rates on almost all routes ahead of the festival. “We had to wait for a long time to get a bus, and the fare was much higher than usual,” said a passenger at Chandana Chowrasta. To ease congestion and ensure smooth traffic flow, law enforcement agencies have stepped up monitoring on the highways. SM Ashraful Islam, deputy commissioner (Traffic) of the Gazipur Metropolitan Police, said additional police personnel have been deployed at important points along the highways. “We are closely monitoring the traffic situation. Wreckers have also been kept ready to quickly remove stalled vehicles from the roads to prevent prolonged congestion,” he said.

North Korea fired an unidentified projectile into the sea from its west coast on Tuesday, according to South Korea’s military authorities. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff did not immediately provide additional information about the launch. The launch came after another weapons test on April 19, when North Korea launched several short-range missiles. State media described that test as an exercise showcasing cluster bomb warheads. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has continued strengthening the country’s nuclear and missile programs since negotiations with former U.S. President Donald Trump broke down in 2019. Although Trump has repeatedly signaled interest in resuming diplomacy, Pyongyang has rejected those efforts and insists that Washington abandon demands for nuclear disarmament before talks can resume. Meanwhile, Kim has adopted a tougher approach toward South Korea, labeling it the nation’s main enemy as tensions over North Korea’s nuclear program continue to escalate amid stalled diplomacy.  

One of Bangladesh’s most ecologically significant freshwater wetlands, Tanguar Haor, is facing growing environmental threats from the widespread use of plastic fish traps and what conservationists describe as a lack of effective enforcement against destructive fishing practices. Spread across nearly 126 square kilometres in Sunamganj’s Tahirpur and Madhyanagar upazilas, Tanguar Haor is recognised as the country’s second Ramsar site after the Sundarbans and serves as a vital reservoir of biodiversity. But environmentalists warn that increasing plastic pollution coupled with illegal fishing methods is undermining the fragile ecosystem. Once home to between 140 and 200 species of indigenous fish, the haor has witnessed a steady decline in aquatic biodiversity in recent years. Experts attribute the trend to multiple environmental pressures, including overfishing, illegal fishing nets and the growing use of plastic-made “Kiranmala chai” traps that have become common across the wetland. According to locals and environmental groups, fishermen frequently leave behind discarded plastic traps after harvesting fish. These non-biodegradable materials remain floating on the water surface or settle on the lakebed for years, gradually breaking down into microplastics. Environmental experts said the resulting microplastic contamination poses a serious risk to fish and other aquatic organisms. The particles can enter the food chain through aquatic species, affecting fish growth and reproduction while threatening the broader ecological balance of the wetland. The discarded plastic also obstructs natural water flow, further disrupting the haor’s ecosystem. Representatives of the Environment and Haor Development Organisation said Tanguar Haor is already under pressure from illegal current nets, ‘China duari traps’ and excessive fish harvesting. The addition of plastic pollution has made the situation increasingly alarming. They also noted signs of declining oxygen levels in water, reduced aquatic vegetation growth and lower fish breeding rates. Every year, fresh floodwaters entering the haor through rivers bring various fish species into the wetland. With early monsoon flows arriving this year due to heavy rainfall in Cherrapunji, water levels in the Jadukata and Patlai rivers rose earlier than usual, allowing fish to enter the haor ahead of schedule. Taking advantage of the situation, many local fishermen have reportedly intensified the use of plastic traps throughout the wetland. The traps are particularly popular because they can catch shrimp and a variety of small fish species with minimal effort. Despite recurring criticism and periodic discussions about the environmental impact of the traps, locals alleged authorities have yet to establish a sustained campaign to stop their production, storage and sale.  

The US military said on Monday that it carried out “self-defence” strikes in southern Iran, including on missile launch sites and boats placing mines, even as President Donald Trump said on social media that negotiations were “proceeding nicely.” The strikes were done “to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces,” but the military was “using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire,” Capt. Tim Hawkins, US Central Command spokesman, said in a statement. Further details were not immediately available, including more specifics on the threats from Iran and what this means for negotiations. Earlier, Trump said any agreement to end the Iran war should include a requirement for several additional countries, including Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, to join the Abraham Accords, the US-brokered agreements from Trump’s first term aimed at normalising relations with Israel. The proposal came as the emerging Iran deal faced criticism from fellow Republicans who favor a harder line on Iran, and it could add new diplomatic complications to the negotiations. Trump pointed to Saudi Arabia and Qatar as countries that should “immediately” sign on, alongside Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt and Jordan. Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates became the first countries to join in 2020. He wrote that “after all the work done by the United States to try and pull this very complex puzzle together, it should be mandatory that all of these Countries, at a minimum, simultaneously sign onto the Abraham Accords.” Trump has long hoped Saudi Arabia would join, but the kingdom has maintained that any normalisation deal requires first establishing a clear path for Palestinian statehood. That’s also key for Pakistan, which is among the countries that do not have diplomatic relations with Israel. Islamabad-based analyst Syed Mohammad Ali said Pakistan’s position on Israel remains unchanged despite Trump’s latest proposal. The president said he brought up the Abraham Accords plan with leaders during negotiations on Saturday. He said he would accept “one or two” countries declining to sign, but said most should be willing. Egypt and Jordan already formally recognise Israel and have long-standing peace treaties. Turkey first recognised Israel in 1949. Masood Khan, Pakistan’s former ambassador to the United States, said it remains to be seen how workable the proposal might be for the countries on Trump’s list. “The invocation of the Abraham Accords at this stage gives an altogether new dimension to the diplomatic and mediatory processes because this issue was not on the agenda,” he said, pointing to the domestic pressure Trump is facing to strike a favourable deal. Still, Khan said, “the diplomatic track is still working, and I believe Pakistan is very much at the centre of it, supported by regional countries.” It remains unclear when or how any deal with Iran might be completed. Trump suggested even Iran could eventually sign on to the accords, if an agreement is reached. The accords are a series of diplomatic, economic and security agreements created with U.S. influence during Trump’s first term, originally between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, followed by Sudan, Morocco, and, more recently, Kazakhstan. They were framed as an effort to promote cooperation among countries in the Middle East and North Africa, and the administration saw them as partly paving the way for full ties with Israel.

Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called for the destruction of 10 buildings in Beirut for every explosive drone launched by Hezbollah, saying Israel must “put an end to the threat of Hezbollah’s explosive drones.” Smotrich noted that a special budget of around 2 billion shekels (about $692 million) was approved earlier this week for developing technological solutions to counter the drone threat. Lapid calls emerging US-Iran deal ‘bad for region’ Referring to the killing of an Israeli soldier in a Hezbollah drone strike in southern Lebanon, the Religious Zionist Party leader said, “For every explosive drone, 10 buildings must fall in Beirut. The response to a significant threat must be significant.” He further said, “You don’t counter a strategic threat with shielding alone, but by changing the rules and the equation. We cannot shield ourselves forever. Only exacting a deterrent and disproportionate price from the enemy will reshape the equation against our foes on all fronts,” in a post on X. With inputs from Al Jazeera

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid on Monday criticised the emerging US-Iran deal, calling it “bad for Israel, bad for the region, bad for the citizens of Iran” and accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of failing to influence Washington on the negotiations. Lapid said the proposed agreement does not meet Israel’s objectives in the war launched by Israel and the United States on February 28. The two allies had vowed to dismantle Iran’s ballistic missile programme, curb its support for regional proxy groups and prevent Tehran from developing a nuclear bomb. Emerging US-Iran deal may end war, reopen Strait of Hormuz According to regional officials, the deal under discussion would require Iran to surrender its stockpile of highly enriched uranium and reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for ending a US blockade on Iranian ports and lifting sanctions. Key issues regarding Iran’s nuclear programme would be negotiated during a 60-day period. While expressing gratitude to US President Donald Trump for backing Israel in the war, Lapid said Netanyahu had little influence over the negotiations. Lapid, head of the centrist Yesh Atid party, has allied again with former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett ahead of elections due by October. He also ruled out forming a coalition with Arab parties and said a two-state solution with the Palestinians was unlikely in the coming years following the October 7 Hamas attacks and subsequent wars.

The Embassy of Bangladesh in Tokyo has expressed its deepest condolences at the passing of Tadateru Konoe, former President of the Japan Red Cross Society and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), who passed away at the age of 87. On behalf of the government and the people of Bangladesh Ambassador to Japan, Md Daud Ali extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, colleagues, and the people of Japan during this time of profound loss. Committed to advancing key projects with Bangladesh, safety remains top priority: Japan "Tadateru Konoe was a true and distinguished friend of Bangladesh, and his invaluable support during our historic Liberation War in 1971 remains deeply etched in our hearts," said the Embassy in a message. As a passionate humanitarian activist, he played a significant role in raising public awareness, mobilizing support, and collecting funds for refugees and freedom fighters, which helped shape public opinion in Japan in favour of Bangladesh. Throughout his exemplary life and leadership at the Japan Red Cross Society and the IFRC, he dedicated himself to global humanitarian service and further strengthening the bonds of friendship between Bangladesh and Japan. "His legacy of compassion and selfless service to humanity will continue to inspire generations to come," the message reads. "We pray for the eternal peace of his departed soul."

A young man was allegedly stabbed to death by his friend over a dispute involving Tk 450 in Rajshahi's Damkura area on Monday morning. Police arrested the accused, Faisal Ali Joy, within hours of the incident. According to police, the deceased Ashikur Rahman and the accused were close friends. Police recover unidentified body from Mahananda River in Chapainawabganj Police said Ashikur had borrowed Tk 450 from Joy on May 21. On Monday morning, Joy went to Ashikur's house to demand repayment of the money, which led to an argument between them. Joy later left the house. Joy allegedly stabbed Ashikur in the left side of his ribs and fled the scene. Locals rushed Ashikur to the emergency department of Rajshahi Medical Collage Hospital in critical condition, where the on-duty doctor declared him dead. Deputy Commissioner of Rajshahi Metropolitan Police's Kashiadanga Zone said police launched a drive immediately after the incident and Arrested Faisal Ali Joy from the Alupatti area of ​​the city. A murder case is being processed with Damkura Police Station connection with the incident.

A couple and their six-year-old child were killed after a pickup hit their motorcycle in Mithamoin upazila of Kishoreganj on Monday evening. The accident occurred around 7:30pm in the Kastul area on the Itna-Mithamoin-Austagram  road. The deceased were identified as Monir Hossain, 35, his wife Munni Akter, 30, and their son Ayan, 6, residents of Mohisha Kandi village in Mithamoin upazila. Motorcyclist killed in Manikganj road crash According to police, the couple and their child were returning home on a motorcycle when a pickup coming from the opposite direction hit them in the Kastul area, leaving all three dead on the spot. After the accident, locals seized the pickup. Mithamoin Police Station Officer-in-Charge Liaqat Ali confirmed the incident. The dead bodies will be sent to the Kishoreganj Adunik Hospital tomorrow for autopsy.

Bangladesh is moving toward a new loan program worth $4 to $4.5 billion with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), dropping the lender's ongoing multi-billion dollar credit facility, according to the Ministry of Finance. Confirming the development in a press release issued on Monday (May 25), the decision was conveyed during a high-level virtual meeting held last Thursday (May 21) between government officials, led by Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, and IMF Deputy Managing Director (DMD) Nigel Clarke. Bangladesh, IMF agree to work on new reform-focused programme Central Bank Governor Md. Mostaqur Rahman, Finance Secretary, Md. Khairuzzaman Mozumder, and other top officials were also present at the meeting. The Ministry of Finance stated that discussions on initiating a new three-year program with the Washington-based lender are underway. The upcoming program will incorporate realistic structural reforms to be implemented in a phased manner. According to the ministry, IMF DMD Nigel Clarke welcomed the government's fresh initiative. Explaining the shift, Finance Minister Amir Khosru noted that the ongoing program was adopted under a completely different economic and policy environment. Subsequent domestic shifts, political economy dynamics, and global uncertainties created significant challenges in implementing some of the rigid reform targets. "The government has no intention of backing away from economic reforms. Rather, we want to implement practical, phased reforms that align with the ground realities of our country," the Finance Minister was quoted as saying in the official statement. Ministry officials acknowledged that Bangladesh has fallen behind on several critical benchmarks stipulated under the existing arrangement. Progress has been notably slow in boosting revenue collection, executing VAT reforms, slashing tax exemptions, and modernizing the tax administration. Furthermore, the central bank has not fully transitioned to a market-driven foreign exchange rate, and the government has held back on aggressively reducing energy and electricity subsidies. The IMF has also expressed strong dissatisfaction with the lack of progress in the banking sector—particularly regarding weak bank restructuring, non-performing loan (NPL) management, corporate governance, and the delayed Bank Resolution Act. With less than a year remaining for the current loan tenure, top finance division officials admitted that meeting these tough targets within the remaining timeframe is highly unlikely. A new program will essentially buy the current government more time to carry out necessary structural adjustments smoothly. Following the IMF's initial nod on Thursday, the Finance Ministry is currently seeking formal policy approval from the highest tier of the government. Once approved, Dhaka will dispatch an official letter to the IMF detailing the logical grounds for exiting the current framework and initiating the new $4-4.5 billion program. An IMF mission is expected to visit Dhaka in July or August, the first months of the upcoming 2026-27 fiscal year, to negotiate the specific terms and conditions of the new package. Commenting on the development, Dr. Zahid Hussain, former Lead Economist of the World Bank's Dhaka office, said that the government is essentially "buying time" through this transition. "The reforms that Bangladesh failed to deliver under the current framework will inevitably resurface in the new one, as these changes are fundamentally necessary for Bangladesh's own economic health," Dr. Hussain observed. He added that apart from gaining an extended timeframe to execute the exact same economic overhauls, it remains to be seen what additional benefits the new program's contents will offer.

A series of alleged rape and attempted rape incidents involving women and children have been reported from several districts across the country, triggering fresh concerns over rising sexual violence and the safety of vulnerable groups. Police arrested the accused in connection with incidents reported from Chuadanga, Jashore and Cumilla, while another allegation in Kushtia triggered controversy after local influential figures allegedly tried to settle the matter through village arbitration. Minor girl ‘raped’ in Jashore; youth arrested In Chuadanga, police have arrested a young man in connection with the alleged rape of a 71-year-old woman in Damurhuda upazila. The accused – Tarikul Islam, 20, son of Sirajul Islam of Ibrahimpur village – was arrested in a drive in the School Mor area of the village in the early hours of Monday. According to police, the incident took place on May 20 in the Mender Math area of Ibrahimpur village. The elderly woman had reportedly gone to visit her daughter at Kolabari village earlier that day. While returning home in the afternoon carrying fish and curry given by her daughter, she was allegedly approached by Tarikul near Ibrahimpur Park. Police said the accused offered to help carry her bag home and accompanied her. When they reached the Mender Math area, he allegedly raped the woman. Following the incident, the woman filed a case at Damurhuda Model Police Station. Officer-in-Charge of the police station Sheikh Mesbah Uddin said police launched an immediate operation after the case was filed and arrested the accused. In Jashore, police have arrested a youth in connection with the rape of a nine-year-old girl at Sagardari village in Keshabpur upazila. The accused was identified as Jayanta Biswas, 18, son of Shyamal Biswas of the village. According to police and locals, the incident occurred on Monday afternoon when the Class-IV girl went to Jayanta’s house to watch television. The accused allegedly lured the child and raped her. The girl returned home crying and informed her family members of the incident. The family immediately reported the matter to the police, who arrested Jayanta from the Sagardari area. Confirming the arrest, Sub-Inspector Shamim Hossain, In-Charge of Chingra Police Camp, said, “Jayanta Biswas has been arrested on charges of raping the minor girl. The child is now under police custody. Legal action is underway in this regard.” In Kushtia, a Class-IV schoolboy was allegedly raped by the caretaker of a mango orchard when he went to pick mangoes there in Kumarkhali upazila on Sunday morning. The accused is Md Wahed Ali, 55, son of late Rajab Ali Biswas of Tarapur village. According to locals, the boy went to the field with goats and later entered the orchard to collect mangoes. The accused allegedly raped him there. The boy later narrated the incident to his mother. The accused initially denied the allegation but later admitted it. Local influential figures pressured the family to settle the matter through a salish (village arbitration), which was scheduled for Monday evening. However, police foiled arbitration following information, said Inspector (Investigation) of Kumarkhali Police Station Md Amirul Islam. He said a team of police has gone to the spot. In Cumilla, a shopkeeper has allegedly tried to rape a 12-year-old boy inside his shop in Daudkandi upazila. A court on Monday sent the accused – Delwar Hossain, 43, a resident of Uttar Rainagar village in the upazila – to jail after police arrested him on Sunday in connection with the incident that took place on May 18. Police said the victim, a student of Class-VI, went to Delwar’s shop on May 18 to buy chips. However, he allegedly took the boy inside the shop, closed the shutters and attempted to rape him. As the boy started crying, locals rushed to the scene and rescued him. However, the accused managed to flee. The victim was taken to the One-Stop Crisis Centre of Cumilla Medical College Hospital on May 23 and the victim’s father filed a case at Daudkandi Model Police Station. Police arrested the accused from a cattle market at Kalasona Bazar on Sunday afternoon.

A motorcyclist was killed and another rider seriously injured in a head-on collision between a motorcycle and a CNG-run auto-rickshaw on the Manikganj-Hemayetpur regional road in Manikganj on Monday afternoon. The accident occurred in the Kitingchar area of the road. The deceased was identified as Md Kawsar Ahmed, 18, son of Md Shahidul Islam Momen of Athalia area in Singair upazila. They chose a cheaper ride, but never made it home According to police and locals, the accident took place when a Singair-bound CNG-run auto-rickshaw from Hemayetpur collided head-on with a Hemayetpur-bound motorcycle coming from the opposite direction. Another motorcycle rider, Md Arafat, 18, son of Md Kohinur Biswas of the same area, sustained serious injuries in the accident. Locals rescued him and sent him to Dhaka Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment. Singair Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md Mazharul Islam, said the body was recovered and sent to Manikganj Sadar Hospital morgue for autopsy. Legal action in this regard is underway, the OC added.

Police have arrested a young man in connection with the alleged rape of a 71-year-old woman in Damurhuda upazila of Chuadanga district. The accused – Tarikul Islam, 20, son of Sirajul Islam of Ibrahimpur village – was arrested in a drive in the School Mor area of the village in the early hours of Monday. According to police, the incident took place on May 20 in the Mender Math area of Ibrahimpur village. Minor girl ‘raped’ in Jashore; youth arrested The elderly woman had reportedly gone to visit her daughter at Kolabari village earlier that day. While returning home in the afternoon carrying fish and curry given by her daughter, she was allegedly approached by Tarikul near Ibrahimpur Park. Police said the accused offered to help carry her bag home and accompanied her. When they reached the Mender Math area, he allegedly raped the woman. Following the incident, the woman filed a case at Damurhuda Model Police Station. Officer-in-Charge of the police station Sheikh Mesbah Uddin said police launched an immediate operation after the case was filed and arrested the accused.

Police have arrested a youth in connection with the rape of a nine-year-old girl at Sagardari village in Keshabpur upazila of Jashore. The accused was identified as Jayanta Biswas, 18, son of Shyamal Biswas of the village. According to police and locals, the incident occurred on Monday afternoon when the Class-IV girl went to Jayanta’s house to watch television. The accused allegedly lured the child and raped her. The girl returned home crying and informed her family members of the incident. The family immediately reported the matter to the police, who arrested Jayanta from the Sagardari area. Confirming the arrest, Sub-Inspector Shamim Hossain, In-Charge of Chingra Police Camp, said, “Jayanta Biswas has been arrested on charges of raping the minor girl. The child is now under police custody. Legal action is underway in this regard.”

Police recovered the half-decomposed body of an unidentified man from the Mahananda River in Gomostapur upazila of Chapainawabganj on Monday. The body was recovered around 3pm from beneath water hyacinths near a river ghat in the Gouripur Kawavasha area under Boalia Union of the upazila. The identity of the deceased could not be known immediately. They chose a cheaper ride, but never made it home Nure Alam, Gomostapur Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC), said locals spotted the body floating among water hyacinths in the river and informed police. Police later recovered the half-decomposed body from the spot, he said. Police suspect that miscreants may have killed the man five to six days ago and dumped the body in the river. The body was sent to Chapainawabganj District Hospital morgue for autopsy and legal action in this regard is underway, the OC added.

With the seven-day Eid-ul-Azha holiday now underway, the annual exodus from the capital has gathered full momentum, as millions of people continue leaving Dhaka to celebrate the festival with their families in hometowns across the country. Passenger welfare and road safety experts estimate that between 10 million and 13 million people could leave the capital during the Eid holidays, although adverse weather conditions may force some travellers to cancel or postpone their trips. Main Eid congregation to be held at 7:30am at National Eidgah Bus terminals, railway stations and launch ghats witnessed increasing crowds since early morning on Monday as homebound travellers rushed to catch their desired transport amid the holiday movement. Bangladesh Jatri Kalyan Samity Secretary General Md Mozammel Hoque Chowdhury said the organisation expects between 10 million and 11.5 million people to leave Dhaka city for Eid celebrations. “However, the number could be lower if bad weather discourages some people from travelling,” he said.

A shopkeeper has allegedly tried to rape a 12-year-old boy inside his shop in Daudkandi upazila of Cumilla district. A court on Monday sent the accused – Delwar Hossain, 43, a resident of Uttar Rainagar village in the upazila – to jail after police arrested him on Sunday in connection with the incident that took place on May 18. Police said the victim, a student of Class-VI, went to Delwar’s shop on May 18 to buy chips. However, he allegedly took the boy inside the shop, closed the shutters and attempted to rape him. As the boy started crying, locals rushed to the scene and rescued him. However, the accused managed to flee. The victim was taken to the One-Stop Crisis Centre of Cumilla Medical College Hospital on May 23 and the victim’s father filed a case at Daudkandi Model Police Station. Police arrested the accused from a cattle market at Kalasona Bazar on Sunday afternoon.

The familiar rush of Eid homebound travel has begun as people leave the capital ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha, but this year’s journey started amid heavy rain in Dhaka and travellers' pressure across major transport terminals.

Firefighters brought under control a massive fire that broke out at the Kalshi slum in the capital’s Pallabi area on Monday night, with 15 units and 123 firefighters taking part in the operation. The fire was brought under control around 9:35pm, said Lieutenant Colonel Md Azad Anwar, Director (Training, Planning and Development) of the Fire Service and Civil Defence Directorate. He said the Fire Service control room received information about the blaze at approximately 7:23pm and rushed there as soon as possible. According to him, the slum has around 1,200 houses and scrap shops, accommodating nearly 3,000 to 3,500 people. As the severity of the fire increased, 15 firefighting units were deployed and 123 firefighters. Firefighters, with assistance from local residents, volunteers, police, RAB and the army, managed to contain the blaze, he added. He said the cause of the fire could not yet be determined and would be known after an investigation. He also said there was no nearby water source, forcing the Fire Service to bring in 15 special water-carrying vehicles to douse the flames. The presence of scrap materials, paper and plastic goods shops in the slum contributed to heavy smoke and rapid spread of the flames, he said. He added that, according to local residents, no casualties or missing persons had been reported so far. He also said the Fire Service would form an investigation committee over the incident.

Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman on Monday said the government, in consultation with the Supreme Court, has decided to keep courts dealing with violence against women and children open during holidays to ensure speedy trial. He made the remarks while speaking to reporters after a view-exchange meeting with local BNP leaders at the Chuadanga Circuit House in the afternoon. Referring to the killing of eight-year-old child Ramisa Akter in the capital’s Pallabi area, the minister said the trial proceedings in the case will begin on June 1. He said the accused had given confessional statements within 24 hours and a charge sheet was submitted within a week. “We have already moved forward with the judicial process.” Ramisa Akter, daughter of Abdul Hannan Molla, was raped and murdered by Sohel Rana, a tenant of a neighbouring flat, on May 19. Referring to the incident where National Citizen Party (NCP) Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary was assaulted in Jhenaidah, Asaduzzaman described the incident as “not desirable.” “No one expects a such behaviour and it is not appropriate,” he said. Nasiruddin Patwary and his associates came under attack in Jhenaidah on Friday shortly after Jummah prayers in front of the old Collectorate Jame Mosque. Later, the law minister attended the closing ceremony of a three-day programme marking the 127th birth anniversary of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam at Karpasdanga in Damurhuda upazila. The programme was held at the Missionary Field adjacent to the historic eight-roofed house associated with the poet’s memory. Before that, the minister paid tribute to the poet by placing floral wreaths at the memorial beside the historic structure.

The United States and Iran appear to be moving toward a possible agreement aimed at ending the ongoing conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, with US President Donald Trump saying over the weekend that negotiations had been “largely completed.” However, uncertainty remains over when the agreement could be finalized and how its provisions would be implemented. Trump’s remarks followed discussions with Middle Eastern allies, including separate talks with Israel. Information about the negotiations has come from two regional officials and one US official who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the talks. War Could Come to an EndIran has consistently maintained that any agreement must include a halt to fighting across the region since the conflict began 12 weeks ago with US and Israeli attacks on Iran that killed several senior figures, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Tehran’s demands also cover Lebanon, where the Iran-backed Hezbollah group has been engaged in clashes with Israel since the early stages of the war. A fragile ceasefire has remained in place since April 7. Ending the conflict would likely ease tensions across the Middle East, where Iranian missile and drone attacks previously targeted Gulf countries and major travel hubs such as the United Arab Emirates. It would also restore shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for around 20% of global oil and natural gas supplies. Regional officials said the draft agreement includes ending hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah and a pledge not to interfere in the internal affairs of regional states, including Iran. The issue is closely tied to Iran’s support for allied armed groups such as the Houthis in Yemen, Hamas in Gaza and Shiite militias in Iraq. One regional official said the US wants Israel to retain the right to respond to perceived threats in Lebanon, while Iran opposes that position. A US official said the agreement would preserve Israel’s right to act in self-defense against imminent threats. Gradual Reopening of Strait of HormuzIran’s nuclear activities, missile programme and regional proxy support were cited by the US and Israel as key reasons for launching attacks on Iran. But Iran’s subsequent restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz quickly became a major international concern, leaving hundreds of ships carrying oil, gas and other goods stranded. Under the proposed arrangement, the strait would gradually reopen as the US lifts the blockade on Iranian ports imposed on April 17, according to regional officials. The blockade has significantly affected Iran’s oil exports and economy. The US is also expected to permit limited Iranian oil sales through sanctions waivers. One official familiar with the talks said broader sanctions relief and the release of billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets would be negotiated during a 60-day process. Iran May Surrender Highly Enriched UraniumIran’s nuclear programme remains at the center of the dispute, particularly concerns that Tehran could eventually develop nuclear weapons. According to regional officials, Iran may agree to hand over its stockpile of highly enriched uranium as part of the deal. One official directly involved in the talks said further discussions during the 60-day period would determine how the material would be handled. Some uranium could be diluted, while the remainder might be transferred to another country, possibly Russia, which has reportedly offered to take custody of it. A US official confirmed that sanctions relief would depend on Iran giving up the uranium stockpile. The International Atomic Energy Agency says Iran currently possesses 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% purity, which is technically close to weapons-grade level. Iran insists its nuclear programme is peaceful and says it has the right to nuclear technology. President Masoud Pezeshkian said on state television Sunday that Iran was ready “to assure the world” it is not seeking nuclear weapons. Trump also said on social media that relations with Iran were becoming “more professional and productive,” while reiterating that Tehran must not obtain nuclear weapons. Key Issues Still UnclearSeveral major issues remain absent from current descriptions of the proposed agreement, including the future of Iran’s uranium enrichment activities and its missile programme, which Israel has long sought to curb. The possibility of regime change in Tehran — previously discussed by the US and Israel during anti-government protests earlier this year — also appears to be off the table. Likewise, there has been no indication that the agreement would involve the withdrawal of US troops from the region or compensation for war-related damage sought by Iran.

More than 94 percent of active ready-made garment factories in Dhaka and Chattogram have paid Eid-ul-Azha bonuses to workers ahead of the festival, according to a summary report released by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) on Monday. The report, prepared with data as of May 23, covers a total of 2,134 operational factories across the two zones. Of these, 2,133 factories were found active, of which 2,117 or 99.20 percent have cleared April wages, while 2,021 factories, representing 94.70 percent, have disbursed Eid bonuses. Additionally, 767 factories, or 35.94 percent, have already paid an advance on May salaries. In the Dhaka zone, out of 1,984 active factories, 1,983 (99.95%) paid March wages and 1,983 (99.39%) cleared April salaries. A total of 1,909 factories (95.98%) have paid Eid bonuses, while 690 factories (37.58%) have provided advance wages for May. In Chattogram, all 380 active factories (100%) paid March salaries. Of these, 334 (98.24%) cleared April wages, 352 (91.76%) paid Eid bonuses, and 97 factories (28.53%) have paid advance wages for May. BGMEA data also outlines a staggered worker dispersal plan from Dhaka: 108 factories (6%) released workers on May 24; 664 (37%) on May 25; 771 (43%) are set to do so on May 26; and the remaining 251 factories (14%) on May 27.

Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shinichi on Monday said Japan remains committed to steadily advancing key projects with the new government in Bangladesh, thereby supporting  the country’s continued growth and development. To further drive this cooperation between the two countries forward, ensuring the safety of Japanese nationals residing in Bangladesh remains the top priority of the Embassy, he said. "In the field of development cooperation, Japan has been Bangladesh’s largest bilateral development partner, providing assistance across a wide range of sectors," the envoy said in a message. In particular, the Ambassador highlighted infrastructure projects such as the Dhaka Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), the third terminal of Dhaka International Airport, and the development of the Matarbari Deep Sea Port, serve as flagship initiatives under the “Bay of Bengal Industrial Growth Belt (BIG-B)” initiative. In the field of security cooperation, both countries signed the Agreement concerning the Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology in February this year. Furthermore, the envoy said Japan is currently making arrangements to deliver patrol boats to the Bangladesh Navy within the year through its Official Security Assistance (OSA) framework. This year notably marks the 10th anniversary of the Dhaka cafe attack. "We remain fully committed to safeguarding the lives and security of Japanese nationals, ensuring that the memory of this tragedy is never forgotten," the envoy said. Highlighting the Bangladesh-Japan relations following the inauguration of the new government in February, Ambassador Saida said the relationship between the two countries has long been firmly grounded in mutual trust and friendship. "Working together with all of you, I remain committed to doing my utmost to further elevate our bilateral ties to new heights," he said. Following the "political uprising" in the summer of 2024, Bangladesh continued to advance in various initiatives for nation-building under the interim government, despite facing numerous challenges, the envoy said. "The successful political transition represents a historic achievement. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Government of Bangladesh and the people of Bangladesh on this occasion," he said. Looking back on the history of Bangladesh-Japan relations, the envoy said Japan has, since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1972, cultivated a friendly relationship with Bangladesh as a sincere development partner for over half a century. In recent years, under the “Strategic Partnership,” bilateral relations have advanced remarkably across a wide range of fields, said the Ambassador. During the interim government period beginning in August 2024, Japan has continued to promote various forms of cooperation without interrupting this positive momentum. "The inauguration of the new BNP government in February this year has provided fresh momentum to bilateral relations," the envoy said. At the end of April, Norikazu Suzuki, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, visited Dhaka and paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, and, during the meeting, Minister Suzuki delivered a letter from Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and reaffirmed Japan’s intention to support the efforts of the new BNP government and further advance cooperation under the “Strategic Partnership.” From an economic perspective, he said Japanese companies have continued their operations in Bangladesh without withdrawing, even after the political uprising in the summer of 2024. The Japan–Bangladesh Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), signed in February of this year, provides a highly significant legal framework for strengthening economic relations between our two countries, the envoy said. Bangladesh expands diplomatic presence with new Honorary Consulate in Cape Town The Embassy of Japan, in close cooperation between the public and private sectors, will continue to support the improvement of the investment environment and assist the further growth and development of Japanese companies in Bangladesh, he said. "Furthermore, people-to-people and cultural exchanges between our two countries have been steadily expanding," he said. "It is gratifying to see that the people of Bangladesh show a strong interest in learning the Japanese language. Japan remains committed to further promoting the study of Japanese language and the appreciation of Japanese culture in Bangladesh." Earlier in May, Prime Minister Takaichi, during her visit to Hanoi, announced the concept of an “Updated FOIP (Free and Open Indo-Pacific),” expressing the vision of fostering a region where all countries “grow stronger and more prosperous together throughout the Indo-Pacific.” Bangladesh, located along the Bay of Bengal at a strategic juncture connecting the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, plays a vital role in the development of the region. For Japan, the envoy said Bangladesh is an important partner in realizing the FOIP vision. "Under the banner of the “Updated FOIP,” Japan intends to work hand in hand with Bangladesh, steadily advancing concrete cooperation on the ground in Bangladesh," he said.