Microsoft has accused Chinese state-linked hacker groups of exploiting vulnerabilities in its SharePoint server software to carry out cyberattacks targeting global organizations. The attackers, identified as Lilin Typhoon, Violet Typhoon, and Storm-2603, infiltrated on-premises servers to steal sensitive data. Microsoft confirmed its cloud-based SharePoint was not breached and has released security updates, urging users to patch systems immediately. The hackers reportedly used encryption to maintain ongoing access. Investigations continue as Microsoft warns of potential repeat attacks on unpatched systems.

U.S. President Donald Trump has accused Hamas of avoiding a ceasefire deal with Israel due to fears of retaliation once Israeli hostages are freed. Speaking at the White House, Trump said Hamas doesn't truly want peace and warned its members will be hunted down. He emphasized that the U.S. and Israel seek only a temporary pause in fighting. Hamas, however, claims it wants a permanent ceasefire and criticized the U.S. stance, while Israel has pulled its negotiators from Qatar-mediated talks.

A 10-day exhibition has begun in front of the National Press Club in Dhaka, showcasing what organizers describe as 16 years of misrule under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The display includes events such as attacks on students during the Safe Roads Movement, border killings, enforced disappearances, judicial killings, and the 2013 Shapla Chattar crackdown. It also highlights the 2009 Pilkhana massacre and the 2006 logi-boitha violence. Organized by Inqilab Mancha and July Oikko, the exhibition will continue until August 6.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has stated that if the party comes to power, it will implement programs to eliminate child labor and reintegrate working children into education and a normal life.

Joining an event in Thakurgaon virtually, he said, "Bangladesh's economic realities are forcing children into labor. However, ESDO’s initiative in Thakurgaon sets a commendable example. If replicated nationwide, child labor can be eradicated."

He emphasized that child labor has no place in a civilized society and reaffirmed BNP’s commitment to protecting child rights. "We will continue to support such initiatives across the country," he added.

During a meeting with political parties at Jamuna, Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus stated that “regressive forces are attempting to derail the electoral process through unrest.” He called for unity among all anti-fascist democratic forces to resist such attempts.

He emphasized, “If all pro-democratic movements fail to organize a credible election, we risk losing a historic opportunity.” Seeking cooperation from all political parties, he added, “Every time we move forward with election preparations, conspiracies surface. However, no conspiracy can stop the march of democracy, as there is a clear unity among democratic forces against fascism.” A minute of silence was also observed in memory of the victims of the Milestone Tragedy during the meeting.

At the World AI Conference in Shanghai, Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized the urgent need for global consensus on balancing the rapid development of artificial intelligence with its security risks. He called for responsible governance, open-source collaboration, and announced a new China-led international body to enhance AI cooperation. Li highlighted challenges such as misinformation, job displacement, and loss of human control. Meanwhile, U.S. President Trump vowed aggressive policies to ensure American dominance in AI, aiming to reduce regulatory hurdles for private innovation.

In an interview with Turkish media, Sadiq Kayem, leader of Bangladesh's July uprising, accused India of treating Bangladesh like a colony for 16 years and backing the Hasina regime, including the August 5 massacre. He likened India's treatment of Muslims to that of Israel’s policies, rejecting Indian dominance. Kayem also called the Awami League a terrorist group and emphasized the movement's independence from foreign influence. He expressed hopes for a balanced foreign policy, especially with China.

BNP Joint Secretary General Habib-Un-Nabi Khan Sohel visited the family of Rojoni Islam, a parent who died in a tragic Air Force jet crash near the Milestone School & College campus in Dhaka’s Uttara Diabari area.

Offering condolences, Sohel met with the victim’s husband, daughter, and son, encouraging them to remain strong during this difficult time. He also emphasized the urgent need for more effective disaster management systems to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Following a meeting with the Chief Adviser and 14 political parties on Saturday afternoon, Mostafa Jamal Haider, Chairman of the Jatiya Party (Kazi Zafar faction), announced that the date for the upcoming national parliamentary election will be declared within four to five days.

“There could be no greater news than this,” he said, adding that elections are the key to resolving current unrest. He emphasized that many of the country’s ongoing problems can only be addressed through a credible electoral process.

Previously, the Chief Adviser held two rounds of meetings with leaders of various political parties and alliances, including the NCP, BNP, and Jamaat-e-Islami.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has stated that while structural reform of the state and economy cannot happen overnight, democratic practices are essential for achieving such transformation. Speaking at an event in Dhaka, he remarked that democracy has been systematically destroyed over the past 15 years, leading to rampant corruption due to lack of accountability. "BNP believes in democracy, which is why we are demanding elections," he said.

Criticizing the proportional representation (PR) system, Fakhrul noted that the people of this country prefer to directly elect their leaders. He also referred to the potential impact of Trump's proposed tariffs as a major threat, stressing the need for dialogue among political parties to address pressing national issues.

Nahid Islam, Convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), stated that while the current constitution is based on Mujibist ideology, it still requires reform to facilitate national development. At a roadside rally in Moulvibazar, he criticized the government for allegedly blaming the recent police killing in Baniachong on uprising participants. He reaffirmed NCP’s commitment to improving the living standards of tea workers and ensuring ethnic and cultural rights. The party's leaders are currently traveling from Moulvibazar to Kishoreganj as part of their campaign.

The government is planning to purchase three additional ships to increase revenue for the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC), according to Brigadier General (Retd.) M. Sakhawat Hossain, Maritime Affairs Advisor. During a visit to the shipbreaking yards in Sitakunda, Chattogram, he stated that 14 yards have received ‘green certification’ by complying with the Hong Kong Convention. Those that fail to meet standards must cease operations. He assured that the government will assist yards in complying with regulations.

The Election Commission has received 43 opinions on the draft Code of Conduct for political parties and candidates in the upcoming national elections. Contributors include eight political parties, including the BNP, two non-governmental organizations, and 33 individuals. Most registered political parties did not submit any feedback. The BNP largely agreed with the proposed guidelines but also suggested additional amendments. Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) proposed significant changes, including greater financial transparency, impartiality of government officials, and regulation of AI technologies. The Election Commission has stated that it will review these suggestions and make necessary revisions.

Religious Affairs Adviser Dr. A. F. M. Khalid Hossain condemned the leak of photos taken during his official visit to Chattogram Central Jail, calling it a politically motivated act to distort facts. He clarified that the visit aimed to expand religious and moral education for inmates, and all protocols were followed. The photos were taken by a prison official and leaked without authorization. He warned against conspiracies by defeated political forces and reaffirmed commitment to transparency and national welfare.

Iran’s top religious leader Abu Torabi Ferd declared that if another conflict arises, Israel’s military and economic backbone will be shattered. Reflecting on the recent 12-day war, he highlighted Iran’s national unity and significant damage inflicted on Israel, estimating losses of $30-35 billion—8% of Israel’s GDP. Despite ongoing readiness, Iran warned Israel that any future mistakes could threaten its existence. The conflict involved missile strikes and U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear sites, ending with a ceasefire on June 24.