Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves have once again surpassed the $20 billion mark. At the beginning of the year, the gross reserve stood at $26.20 billion, while the BPM6-adjusted reserve was $21.36 billion. According to the latest data released on Thursday, the gross reserve now stands at $25.54 billion, while the BPM6-adjusted reserve is $20.20 billion. Earlier, on January 9, after clearing a $1.67 billion payment to the Asian Clearing Union (ACU) for November and December imports, the reserve had dropped to $20 billion. Under the previous Awami League government, reserves had once fallen below $14 billion, which was then artificially inflated through foreign loans and dollar purchases from commercial banks. However, under the new administration, the central bank has halted reserve sales and is now working to source dollars from various channels.

Actress Sohana Saba has been taken to the Detective Branch (DB) office for questioning late Thursday night, confirmed DMP’s Deputy Commissioner of Media & Public Relations, Muhammad Talebur Rahman. Prior to this, actress Meher Afroz Shaon was also brought in for questioning from her residence. According to officials, Shaon is being interrogated over alleged anti-state remarks. Her recent political stance and comments sparked discussions and controversy on social media, leading to her being summoned to the DB office for further investigation.

In a statement issued late Thursday night on the verified Facebook page of the Chief Advisor, the interim government assured that attempts to vandalize and set fire to various institutions and properties across the country would be strongly resisted. The statement further emphasized that the interim government is fully prepared to ensure the safety and security of citizens’ lives and property. It warned that any efforts to destabilize the country through provocative actions would be met with swift and stringent action by law enforcement agencies, and the responsible individuals and groups would be brought to justice.

The Law and Arbitration Center has strongly condemned the attacks and vandalism at Sheikh Mujib’s residence in Dhanmondi 32 and other locations across the country. The organization called for respect for law, human rights, and democracy, describing these acts as threats to the rule of law and stability in the country. The statement further reminded that international human rights laws guarantee equal protection under the law and the right to due process. It also pointed out that without these assurances, the government risks facing accusations of failure. The organization reiterated its respect and support for the ideals of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law, emphasizing that the ongoing events are contrary to these principles.

The Chief Adviser’s Press Wing announced on Thursday that Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus will visit Aina Ghar as soon as possible, accompanied by both local and international media. The decision was made during the Advisory Council meeting held on February 6 (Thursday). The meeting also addressed key issues such as ensuring smooth transportation of essential goods through TCB (Trading Corporation of Bangladesh) and maintaining stable commodity prices during Ramadan. Additionally, discussions focused on preventing load shedding and ensuring an uninterrupted power supply throughout the holy month.

Several international media outlets have reported on the arson and vandalism at Dhanmondi 32, the historic residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, following the online address of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on February 5. In addition to Dhanmondi 32, her residence, Sudha Sadan, was also attacked and set on fire by protesters. Prominent global news agencies covered the incident with striking headlines:

• Associated Press (AP) (USA): “Bangladeshi Protesters Destroy Ousted PM Sheikh Hasina’s Family Home”

• Agence France-Presse (AFP) (France): “Bangladesh Protesters Attempt to Ransack Hasina’s Father’s House”

• BBC (UK): “Protesters Set Fire to Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister’s Family Home”

• Reuters (UK): “Demonstrators Torch Ousted Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina’s Father’s Residence”

• Anadolu Agency (Turkey): “Furious Protests in Bangladesh Over Former PM Hasina’s Address from India”

The incident has drawn global attention, with international media highlighting the political unrest and growing tensions in Bangladesh.

A gas cylinder explosion inside a private car at a filling station in Ashulia, Savar, has left three people injured, including a child. The victims are the car’s driver, Imran Hasan Sani (35), his wife, Mukta Akter (32), and their son, Kazi Minhaj (11). All three have been admitted to Sohel Square Hospital with injuries. According to the CNG pump authorities, a blue-colored private car arrived at the filling station to refuel. As soon as the gas refill started, the cylinder exploded with a loud bang. The victims were standing next to the vehicle at the time of the explosion. Police have visited the site and confirmed that the incident occurred due to a cylinder blast during gas refueling.

Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University (HSTU) has decided not to participate in the mandatory cluster admission system, despite directives from the Ministry of Education and the University Grants Commission (UGC). In today’s Academic Council meeting, a majority of faculty members supported conducting an independent admission test. As a result, the university will hold its own entrance examination on campus as per the admission circular issued on January 28, confirmed Proctor Professor Dr. Shamsuzzoha. The application process will begin on February 9 and continue until March 6, with the university admitting 1,795 students this year.

In Taraganj, Rangpur, an inter-district women’s football match between Joypurhat and Rajshahi teams was abruptly halted following protests led by Ashraf Ali, a leader of the Islami Andolon Bangladesh (IAB). Using a loudspeaker, Ali declared the match unacceptable and called for demonstrations, escalating tensions between event organizers and IAB activists. As neither side was willing to compromise, the Upazila Executive Officer intervened and imposed Section 144 to prevent further unrest. Organizers expressed disappointment, stating that the tournament is held annually without issue, but this year, opposition from IAB forced its suspension. The official explanation from the Upazila Executive Office is that the decision was made in consultation with the District Commissioner due to the standoff between the parties.

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Traffic Division has filed 1,403 cases against traffic law violators in various areas of the capital. In a press release signed by the Deputy Police Commissioner of the DMP Media and Public Relations Division, it was revealed that during the operation, 122 vehicles were dumped, and 33 were towed. The ongoing crackdown on traffic violations will continue across Dhaka city, as stated in the release.

Forbes has released its 2025 list of the world’s most powerful countries, with the United States securing the top spot, followed by China and Russia. Israel, despite its smaller economy compared to other nations, has made it to the 10th position. The rankings are based on various factors, including economic, political, military strength, and international relations. Notably, India is absent from the top 10, while the United Kingdom, Germany, South Korea, France, Japan, and Saudi Arabia are included. The exclusion has sparked widespread discussions and debates across India, especially regarding the Modi government’s performance.

The top 10 list includes:
#1. United States
#2. China
#3. Russia
#4. United Kingdom
#5. Germany
#6. South Korea
#7. France
#8. Japan
#9. Saudi Arabia
#10. Israel

A passenger bus in Jhenaidah caught fire due to a battery short circuit, but fortunately, no passengers were harmed. Firefighters controlled the blaze after an hour and a half of effort. Passenger Abul Kalam, who was on the bus, stated that the fire started while the bus was en route from Jhenaidah to Kushtia. As soon as the bus stopped, all passengers safely exited. The in-charge of the Shailkupa Fire Service reported that two fire units rushed to the scene immediately upon receiving the news, successfully extinguishing the fire after about an hour and a half of work.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has revealed plans for Israel to transfer control of Gaza to the United States after the war. He stated that, by then, Palestinians will be relocated to safer, more beautiful areas, with modern homes in secure locations. Trump mentioned that he had previously discussed evacuating Gaza and is now sharing the full plan. Despite global protests, he remains steadfast in his approach. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has praised the plan, supporting the removal of Palestinians from Gaza.

The Ekushey Padak 2025 will be awarded to 14 distinguished individuals and the Bangladesh National Women’s Football Team for their contributions in various fields. The honorees include Azizur Rahman (Film, posthumous), Ustad Nirod Baran Barua and Ferdous Ara (Music), Nasir Ali Mamun (Photography), Rokeya Sultana (Fine Arts), Helal Hafiz (Poetry, posthumous), Shahidul Zahir (Literature, posthumous), Dr. Shahidul Alam (Culture & Education), Dr. Niaz Zaman (Education), Mehedi Hasan Khan (Science & Technology), Moeedul Hasan (Research), Mahfuz Ullah (Journalism, posthumous), Mahmudur Rahman (Journalism & Human Rights), and Mohammad Yusuf Chowdhury (Social Work, posthumous). The prestigious award recognizes outstanding contributions to arts, literature, journalism, education, and social service.

Three young men lost their lives due to alcohol poisoning in Gafargaon, Mymensingh. Another individual, Masud (37), is critically ill and receiving treatment at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital. The deceased have been identified as Suman Mia (35), A. Jalil (42), and Nizam Uddin (38). The incident occurred on Wednesday night when Masud, a resident of Ibrahimpur, Dhaka, visited his cousin’s house with his friend Nizam. The group consumed locally brewed alcohol together, after which all four fell critically ill. One of them passed away at Gafargaon Upazila Hospital, while the remaining two were declared dead upon arrival at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital.