British officials have warned that global food prices could rise due to the economic impact of the ongoing war involving Iran. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is scheduled to meet business leaders at Downing Street on Monday to discuss the issue. The warning follows Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which has already driven up oil prices and raised concerns about fertilizer costs, according to a maritime analyst.

Lars Jensen, founder and CEO of shipping consultancy Vespucci Maritime, told BBC Radio 4’s Today program that 20 to 30 percent of the world’s seaborne fertilizer originates from the Persian Gulf region. He cautioned that this disruption could cause food prices to increase rapidly, particularly in poorer countries. The UK’s National Farmers Union also warned that higher fuel and fertilizer costs would inevitably push up domestic food prices.

The discussions at Downing Street are expected to focus on mitigating the potential economic fallout and ensuring stability in the UK’s food supply chain.

Farmers in Amtali upazila of Barguna district are facing financial losses despite a bumper watermelon harvest this year. The cultivated area exceeded the target of 4,249 hectares, reaching over 4,309 hectares, according to the local agriculture office. However, low market prices have left many growers disappointed, with watermelons weighing 5 to 7 kilograms selling for only 120 to 150 taka each. Only those who managed to bring their produce to market early have seen some profit.

Local farmers, including Mamun Molla of Patakata village, reported that despite excellent yields, they are unable to recover production and land lease costs due to weak demand from wholesalers. Agricultural officer Md. Russel stated that favorable weather conditions had raised expectations of earning up to 2.5 billion taka from watermelon cultivation in Amtali alone, but the lack of fair prices now threatens that projection.

Upazila Executive Officer Muhammad Zafar Arif Chowdhury urged wholesalers from across the country to visit Amtali and purchase watermelons, emphasizing the region’s suitability for large-scale commercial cultivation and the administration’s continued support for local farmers.

A severe fuel shortage has hit Rupsa upazila in Khulna, causing major disruptions for residents and transport workers. Two local fuel stations, Monir Uddin Fuel Station and Kazi Sobhan Pump, are struggling to maintain adequate supply. Long queues of motorcycles, private cars, and other vehicles have formed, with many drivers waiting two to three hours only to receive limited amounts of fuel worth 100 to 200 taka. In some cases, supplies run out after serving a few hundred vehicles, leaving others without fuel.

The manager of Kazi Sobhan Pump said they are receiving very small quantities of fuel from the company, far below local demand, forcing them to ration distribution. Frustrated customers reported losing valuable time and income due to the shortage. Some locals suspect that a syndicate might be behind the crisis, though no clear information has emerged. Meanwhile, fuel is reportedly available at retail shops for 200 to 220 taka per liter after bargaining.

The situation has raised concerns about supply chain irregularities and the lack of transparency in fuel distribution in the area.

The government of Bangladesh has announced a reward of up to Tk 100,000 for individuals providing verified information on illegal fuel storage or smuggling. The Energy and Mineral Resources Division issued the notice on Monday, stating that the initiative aims to enhance transparency in fuel supply management and strengthen field-level monitoring through public participation. Informants’ identities will be kept strictly confidential, and payments will be made through the respective district administration after verification.

According to the government, certain groups have been exploiting recent global fuel price hikes and supply uncertainties to create artificial shortages by hoarding fuel and selling it at inflated prices. To ensure proper use of imported fuel and prevent market manipulation, authorities have already conducted operations in several districts against hoarding and smuggling networks.

Officials believe that involving the public through financial incentives will make enforcement efforts more effective and help maintain stability in the national fuel supply system.

A report published on March 30, 2026, highlights the rising threat of webcam hacking in Bangladesh, where cybercriminals secretly gain access to laptop cameras through phishing links, fake software, or malware. Once inside, they can record videos, capture screens, or steal personal data without the user’s knowledge. The article warns that this invisible surveillance is becoming increasingly common, particularly among young users who rely on free or cracked software and often ignore basic cybersecurity practices.

The report explains that signs of hacking—such as sudden webcam light activation or slow device performance—may not always be visible, as skilled hackers can conceal their activities. To stay protected, users are advised to cover webcams when not in use, keep operating systems and antivirus software updated, avoid suspicious links, and refrain from using pirated software. Regularly checking app permissions and using strong, unique passwords are also recommended.

Experts cited in the article emphasize that awareness, not fear, is the key to safety. They stress that technology itself is not dangerous, but careless use can make it risky.

The Bangladesh Fertilizer Association (BFA) has warned that all fertilizer dealers and retailers across the country will indefinitely suspend fertilizer sales and related activities if the government does not immediately withdraw Policy 2025, which the association has labeled as against public interest. The announcement was made through a press release issued on Sunday.

According to the statement, BFA leaders had repeatedly urged Agriculture Minister Aminur Rashid in writing to suspend the implementation of Policy 2025 and to retain the existing 2009 policy until a new, inclusive, and updated policy could be developed with input from all stakeholders. After the minister failed to take action, around 20,000 fertilizer dealers held a human chain protest in front of the National Press Club on March 11, warning of tougher nationwide movements if their demands were not met within two working days.

The association claims that enforcing Policy 2025 would leave 46,000 retail fertilizer sellers financially ruined and unemployed, potentially causing severe disruption in the agricultural sector. It also warned that fertilizer shortages, combined with ongoing fuel supply issues due to Middle East conflicts, could trigger widespread instability in the country.

A severe diesel shortage in Nesarabad upazila of Pirojpur has disrupted irrigation for Boro and Irri rice cultivation, putting around 30,000 hectares of farmland at risk. Farmers report that without diesel, they cannot operate irrigation pumps, causing fields to crack and seedlings to wither. Many accuse local fuel hoarders of creating an artificial crisis by limiting market supply, while officials have yet to take visible action to resolve the issue.

Local farmers and civic groups warn that if the shortage persists, it could lead to a major decline in seasonal rice production and threaten national food security, as Boro rice is a key contributor to the country’s grain supply. Farmers have urged authorities to restore normal diesel and petrol distribution immediately.

Upazila Agriculture Officer Mahfuzur Rahman cautioned that irregular irrigation at this stage could severely reduce yields. Upazila Executive Officer Amit Dutta stated that the administration has launched operations against illegal hoarding and is maintaining strict market monitoring to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply for farmers.

In Raiganj of Sirajganj, the once-familiar sight of tall palm trees is rapidly disappearing, raising concerns about increasing lightning strikes and other natural disasters. The decline has been attributed to agricultural expansion, unplanned tree cutting, and insufficient replanting. Local residents have reported more frequent lightning-related deaths of farmers and livestock during recent monsoon seasons, heightening fear and frustration in the community.

Environmental activists from the Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (BAPA) in Sirajganj warn that palm trees not only enhance natural beauty but also act as protection against lightning. Their loss threatens biodiversity, particularly the habitat of the baya weaver bird, and disrupts the ecological balance. Palm trees also hold economic and cultural value, providing nutritious fruit and raw materials for rural crafts such as mats, fans, and other cottage products.

Experts caution that the disappearance of palm trees could erode both environmental stability and rural heritage, diminishing the aesthetic and ecological identity of traditional Bangladeshi villages.

A modernization project costing about Tk 21 crore at Dhaka University’s Mall Chattar has drawn criticism after the area turned hazardous for students and pedestrians. Following recent rainfall, an electric shock incident killed a dog near Surya Sen Hall around 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday, raising alarm among witnesses who narrowly avoided a larger accident.

Students alleged that the square’s electrical wiring and lighting were installed without proper planning, creating electrocution risks whenever rainwater accumulates. Poor drainage and inadequate maintenance have worsened the danger. Some lamp posts have reportedly been stolen, leaving exposed wires temporarily patched with tape. The project, launched for the university’s centenary celebration, included lighting, drainage, seating, and aesthetic structures but has faced criticism over design flaws and safety lapses.

Acting Chief Engineer Kazi Md. Akram Hossain said some lights had been disconnected after thefts, and the sudden rain caused the incident. Newly appointed Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. A.B.M. Obaidul Islam called the situation alarming and instructed the engineering department to take immediate safety measures.

Global oil prices climbed sharply on Monday, surpassing $116 per barrel as renewed conflict in the Middle East intensified concerns over energy supply. The benchmark Brent crude rose more than 3 percent in early trading, crossing the $116 mark amid heightened tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.

Before February 28, oil traded at about $72 per barrel. On March 19, it reached a peak of $118 before easing slightly to just under $112 by Friday afternoon. The current surge marks a significant increase compared to pre-war levels, reflecting market anxiety over potential disruptions in the region.

The price spike coincided with Iran’s announcement that it is prepared for a possible U.S. ground attack. Iran’s parliamentary speaker warned that any American troops entering the country would face severe retaliation, and regional allies would also be punished, according to the report.

Bangladesh is continuing diesel imports from India through a cross-border pipeline to strengthen its energy security. On Saturday evening, diesel pumping began from Numaligarh Refinery in Assam, India, marking the third consignment of 7,000 metric tons. After about 60 hours of pumping, the shipment is expected to reach the Bangladesh-India Friendship Pipeline terminal in Parbatipur, Dinajpur, by Tuesday morning.

Earlier, two consignments of 5,000 metric tons each arrived in March, bringing the total diesel imports through the pipeline this month to 17,000 metric tons once the latest batch is received. The Parbatipur depot of Padma Oil PLC has remained operational even during holidays to maintain uninterrupted fuel supply. According to the depot’s deputy manager (operations), regular pumping from India’s Numaligarh Refinery is ongoing.

The continued pipeline-based imports are part of the government’s effort to ensure stable fuel availability across the country and reduce logistical challenges in energy transportation.

Bangladesh Bank has introduced a new policy titled “Cybersecurity Framework, Version 1.0 (2026)” to address growing cyber risks in the country’s financial sector. The framework, issued on Sunday, requires all scheduled banks, financial institutions, mobile financial service providers, payment service providers, and payment system operators to fully implement the guidelines by December 31, 2026. The central bank stated that the expansion of online services, digital platforms, and interconnected networks has increased both efficiency and cyber threats.

According to the circular, cyberattacks such as hacking, phishing, malware, ransomware, and data theft pose significant risks of financial loss, reputational damage, and service disruption. The framework emphasizes safeguarding customer data, ensuring system integrity, and maintaining technological resilience. It includes provisions on governance, risk management, data protection, network security, access control, incident management, third-party risk, compliance, and staff training.

The framework sets minimum cybersecurity standards for financial institutions, aiming to strengthen resilience and protect sensitive information. Institutions are instructed to adopt effective risk management strategies, conduct regular monitoring, and promote awareness through training programs.

Nepal has expressed interest in upgrading Saidpur Airport in northern Bangladesh to international standards. The interest was conveyed by Nepal’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ghanshyam Bhandari, during a courtesy meeting with Bangladesh’s Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Afroza Khanam Rita, and State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat in Dhaka on Sunday morning.

During the meeting, both sides emphasized strengthening existing bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Nepal. The Nepalese side sought cooperation in developing Bangladesh’s aviation and tourism sectors. Ambassador Bhandari noted that upgrading Saidpur Airport would enhance regional connectivity and create new opportunities for tourism and trade between the two countries.

Discussions also covered maintaining reasonable airfares on the Dhaka–Kathmandu route and working jointly to promote tourism. The Bangladeshi ministers assured continued cooperation with Nepal in aviation and tourism development.

The global economy is under mounting strain following joint U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran that have triggered sharp increases in commodity prices and stock market declines. Over the past month, retaliatory strikes across Persian Gulf refineries, pipelines, and gas terminals have disrupted energy flows, forcing developing nations to ration fuel and expand subsidies for the poor. The International Energy Agency described the resulting 20 million-barrel-per-day shortfall as the largest oil supply crisis in history.

Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of global oil passes, has crippled exports from Kuwait and Iraq. A separate Iranian strike on Qatar’s Ras Laffan LNG terminal destroyed 17 percent of its export capacity. Brent crude prices have surged to over $105 per barrel, while fertilizer and helium supplies have also been disrupted. Economists from MIT, Harvard, and the IMF warned that the conflict could trigger stagflation and reduce global growth by up to 0.4 percent.

Experts caution that recovery will be slow, with Gulf energy infrastructure heavily damaged and food prices rising due to fertilizer shortages. The crisis threatens to deepen inequality, hitting poorer nations hardest.

A World Bank delegation led by Jean Pesme, Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan, met with Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid on Sunday at the ministry’s conference room. The meeting began with an exchange of greetings, where the minister welcomed the delegation and received congratulations on assuming office.

During the discussion, the minister announced the introduction of a 'Krishak Card' initiative aimed at protecting farmers’ interests, boosting production, and ensuring sustainable agricultural development. The program will begin on a pilot basis in 11 blocks across several districts this year before expanding nationwide. The World Bank delegation expressed interest in increasing investment in the agricultural sector, particularly in input supply, product processing, and market development. The minister welcomed this proposal.

Both sides expressed optimism about strengthening mutual cooperation to enhance sustainability in agriculture and improve farmers’ livelihoods. Senior officials from the agriculture, fisheries, livestock, and food ministries, along with World Bank’s South Asia Regional Director for Sustainable Development, Dina Umali-Deininger, attended the meeting.