U.S. intelligence reports have revealed that Iran’s military loaded naval mines in the Persian Gulf last month, although they have not yet been deployed. The information comes amid rising concerns following Israeli strikes across Iran, and fears that Tehran may move to block the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The strait handles roughly one-fifth of global oil trade, and any disruption could significantly impact global energy markets. While Iran’s parliament has approved a motion to consider the blockade, the final decision rests with its National Security Council. The origin of the U.S. intelligence report has not been disclosed.

Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal has sentenced fugitive Sheikh Hasina to six months in jail for contempt of court. Another individual, Shakil Akand Bulbul of Gobindaganj, received a two-month sentence in the same case. The tribunal, led by Justice Golam Mortuza, delivered the verdict following the circulation of a viral audio clip involving Sheikh Hasina, the authenticity of which was confirmed by CID forensic analysis. In the interest of justice, the court appointed a defense lawyer on her behalf.

The International Crimes Tribunal has filed formal charges against 16 individuals, including former MP Saiful Islam, over the Ashulia massacre and the burning of six bodies during the popular uprising on August 5, 2024.

According to the investigation report, five people were shot dead by police, and a sixth wounded victim was set on fire along with the others after petrol was poured over them. On Wednesday, the accused were presented before the tribunal.

On July 1, India and Pakistan exchanged lists of prisoners held in each other’s custody through diplomatic channels, in accordance with the 2008 Consular Access Agreement. Pakistan shared details of 246 Indian detainees — 193 fishermen and 53 others — while India provided a list of 463 Pakistani prisoners — 81 fishermen and 382 others. Pakistan has called for the early release and repatriation of prisoners who have completed their sentences and requested special consular access for those who are physically or mentally unfit. Islamabad has also urged New Delhi to ensure the safety and well-being of all Pakistani prisoners in its custody.

U.S. President Donald Trump said that while trade talks with Japan have taken place, he is not optimistic about reaching any agreement, describing Japan as “very stubborn.” Trump complained that although Japan urgently needs rice, it shows little interest in importing U.S. rice or other goods. He added that he has no plans to extend the July 9 deadline for the negotiations and instead intends to pressure various countries into deals by sending them letters.

In a separate remark, Trump lashed out at Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, calling him “foolish,” claiming that lowering interest rates by three points could have saved nearly a trillion dollars. He also noted that he is considering two or three top candidates to replace Powell.

A rape survivor in Muradnagar, who had previously been reluctant to press charges, has now decided to move forward with legal proceedings following a family decision made on Monday night. However, due to intense pressure from journalists, YouTubers, and political figures, she left her home on Tuesday. Four accused are currently in jail, with one receiving hospital treatment. The victim’s family is facing growing distress as people crowd their home and videos of the incident circulate online. Citing safety concerns, they have relocated with police providing support. The investigation remains ongoing.

Bangladeshi agricultural entrepreneur and BNP Vice Chairman Abdul Awal Mintoo has been named the recipient of the "Top Agri-Food Pioneer" award by the US-based World Food Prize Foundation. Mintoo, founder of Lal Teer Seeds Ltd., has made significant contributions to seed development, livestock, and food security for over four decades. He established the country’s first ISTA-accredited seed testing lab and pioneered hybrid seed and semen technologies in Bangladesh. He will be officially honored in October 2025 in Iowa, USA.

Advisor Asif Mahmud has proposed the establishment of an "Islamic Culture and Language Center" in Bangladesh during a meeting with ICESCO Director-General Dr. Salim M. Al Malik in Rabat, Morocco. Mahmud also sought ICESCO’s support in youth skill development, expansion of smart classrooms, and research initiatives. Dr. Al Malik praised Bangladeshi youth and expressed interest in working in the country’s education, health, and climate sectors. He also discussed the possibility of involving Bangladeshi experts in ICESCO's international programs and launching a microcredit project. The meeting concluded with Mahmud touring the ICESCO museum and expressing hope to establish a similar institution in Bangladesh.

US Senator Lindsey Graham has warned that countries continuing to trade with Russia while failing to support Ukraine could face tariffs as high as 500% on their exports to the United States. The warning follows the passage of a bill endorsed by former President Donald Trump, now approved by the US Senate, aiming to economically pressure countries maintaining business ties with Moscow.

Experts believe the measure could significantly impact nations like India and China, who are major importers of Russian oil and other goods. Senator Graham emphasized that the proposed tariffs are targeted at nations choosing commerce with Russia over humanitarian support for Ukraine. With India-Russia trade volume surging to $68.7 billion, analysts caution the bill could deal a heavy blow to India's economy if enforced.

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that Israel has agreed to the conditions of a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, based on a proposal drafted by his special envoy, Steve Witkoff. “During this period, we will work with all parties to reach a permanent end to the conflict,” Trump stated. However, tensions remain: Israel is seeking the right to resume military operations after the temporary ceasefire, while Hamas demands a guarantee of a permanent truce. Trump praised the mediation roles played by Qatar and Egypt and urged Hamas to accept the proposal. Ahead of his Monday meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, the U.S. has been ramping up pressure on Israel to halt military action.

A fire broke out early Wednesday morning at a chemical warehouse in Mamun Plaza, Tikatuli, Dhaka. The blaze started around 5:00 AM and was brought under control by 7:00 AM after a two-hour effort by seven units of the Fire Service. Authorities were alerted promptly, and no casualties have been reported so far. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and officials stated that more information will be shared following a detailed investigation.

In the first half of 2025, the U.S. dollar has depreciated by over 10% in global markets — marking its steepest decline since 1973. Analysts attribute the slump to former President Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff policies and an increasingly isolationist foreign policy. Growing concerns over inflation, ballooning government debt, and unpredictable trade policies have shaken investor confidence, raising questions about America's leadership in the global financial system. While the falling dollar has made imports more expensive, exporters are seeing higher profits. According to Standard Chartered, "It's not about whether the dollar is strong or weak — it's about how the world perceives the United States."

Japanese companies have expressed interest in hiring skilled workers from Bangladesh, according to Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Japan, Md. Daud Ali. Speaking at a meeting with the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ambassador Ali emphasized the potential for cooperation in trade, investment, and human resource development. The chamber’s president, Koji Mochida, along with other representatives, welcomed the prospects of stronger bilateral ties and indicated their eagerness to employ Bangladeshi talent.

The Internet Service Providers Association of Bangladesh (ISPAB) has announced a reduction in broadband internet package prices. The Tk 700 package will now be available for Tk 500, effective from July 1. ISPAB stated that, as the average speed provided is now 10 Mbps, the previous 5 Mbps package has been discontinued. ISPAB President Aminul Hakim mentioned that if the government withdraws the SOF (Shared Office Facility fees) and revenue-sharing requirements, service providers will be able to offer speeds up to 20 Mbps in the future. He also expressed concerns over consumers’ reluctance to pay VAT.

The government has ordered the release of 56 inmates serving life sentences, who have been in prison for more than 20 years, including remission periods. Assistant Inspector General of Prisons Jannatul Farhad said on Tuesday that under Rule 569 of the Jail Code and Section 401(1) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, the remaining sentences of these prisoners have been pardoned. This measure, commonly referred to as the “Twenty Years Rule,” allows for their early release after completing two decades behind bars.