At a UN Security Council emergency session, Russia’s envoy Vasily Nebenzya condemned Israel for launching a unilateral attack on Iran, ignoring UN resolutions and diplomatic efforts. He warned that Iran’s peaceful nuclear sites remain vulnerable to attacks that could trigger a nuclear disaster. Nebenzya highlighted that the attack occurred amid ongoing indirect talks between the US and Iran, undermining diplomatic progress. He emphasized that Iran’s nuclear facilities are under strict IAEA supervision, and Israel’s actions showed blatant disregard for international norms and UN authority.

A clash broke out between activists of Chhatra Dal and Chhatra Shibir in Rangamati on Friday following the detention and assault of a leader from the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL).

According to sources, a group of Chhatra Dal and Chhatra Shibir members—affiliated with the Anti-Discrimination Movement—intercepted former BCL leader Anwar Hossain Kaiser while he was traveling to Chattogram by taxi. He was reportedly beaten during the confrontation. Police later rescued Kaiser and took him to the local station.

Tensions escalated when a Chhatra Dal leader attempted to stop the vandalism of the vehicle, prompting a Shibir activist to physically assault two Chhatra Dal members. This altercation quickly led to a broader clash between the two groups.

Jamaat leader Matiur Rahman Akand emphasized the importance of a neutral environment for conducting free and fair elections. He stated that whether the election remains impartial depends on the government, the Election Commission, and the military. “If illegal power grabs continue, there will be no level playing field in the elections,” he warned. Akand said observers will monitor the situation closely and demand corrective action if the playing field is not leveled, identifying causes for any imbalance. He also highlighted the need to test the neutrality of the Election Commission and urged that CCTV cameras be installed at every polling station nationwide. Notably, he mentioned that if necessary, voting could be conducted over multiple days instead of a single day. He affirmed that the military will support Bangladesh and ruled out any opportunity to reinstate special groups.

Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser, has ordered swift execution of Public Administration Reform Commission recommendations that ministries can implement independently. During a June 16 meeting, eight easily implementable proposals were highlighted, including improving highway petrol pump sanitation, dynamic ministry websites, forming school managing committees, community health center management, public hearings, revising information laws, restructuring the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, and enhancing digital services. Each ministry will form teams for timely action, with oversight by the Governance Innovation Unit and the Cabinet Division. Regular meetings will monitor progress.

Advocate Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal, BNP Chairperson’s advisor, stated that fascist elements still deeply embedded in the government administration have gained international recognition. Speaking to Chief Adviser Dr. Yunus, he emphasized BNP’s commitment to assist but warned against arbitrary actions. Alal threatened to expose hidden fascist collaborators at all administrative levels if they are not removed promptly. The remarks were made at a youth rally demanding the arrest of fascist collaborators to ensure free and fair elections.

Following nationwide protests on August 5 last year, the Khanasama Upazila Awami League office in Dinajpur was vandalized and set on fire, leaving it abandoned and in ruins. Once a center of political power, the building now serves as a public toilet and houses small shops. Local residents say the office symbolized oppression under the party’s rule. Since the party’s fall, many leaders have gone into hiding or left the area, while the office remains deserted and a reminder of political turmoil.

In Cumilla's Meghna Upazila, Abdul Mannan Miah, formerly an Awami League ward secretary, was unexpectedly appointed as BNP ward president for Barkanda Union. The decision, made during a June 17 BNP meeting, has caused uproar among local BNP leaders who accuse the party of sidelining loyal activists. Meghna Upazila BNP officials have since called to cancel the committee and warned that those responsible for the appointment will face disciplinary actions, emphasizing that BNP leadership opposes including Awami League members in their committees.

Following Israel’s recent strikes on Iran’s military sites, concerns are growing that Turkey could be the next target. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s comments mocking the Ottoman Empire, seen as a jab at President Erdogan, have heightened fears. Turkey condemned the attacks, ramped up defense measures, and held diplomatic talks with regional leaders and the US. Turkish politicians suggest Israel aims to curb Turkey’s regional ambitions. Erdogan vows full defense independence and stresses readiness for war as the key to peace.

At an event marking the 20th anniversary of the Jagannath University Journalists’ Association, BNP leader Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie said that their political movement is not solely for elections, but to rebuild the country. He emphasized implementing Tarique Rahman’s 31-point reform plan to move the nation forward.

"The July uprising didn’t happen by chance—sacrifices were made by many, and we honor them," he said. Annie also accused the current regime of fascism, stating that those who speak out face jail and persecution. He called for justice and emphasized that judicial reform is a continuous process.

Shakil Uzzaman, leader of the People’s Rights Council, proposed reforms to the presidential election system to prevent authoritarian rule. He argued that the current indirect appointment method leads to a fascist-style governance and has sparked public uprisings demanding its abolition. According to the Council’s proposal, a total of 576 voters would elect the president through a secret ballot. This voter base would include 500 members of parliament from both the upper and lower houses, mayors of 12 city corporations, and chairpersons of 64 district councils.

Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Dr. Shafiqur Rahman urged leaders and activists to be ready to make any sacrifice for establishing justice and fairness in the country. He highlighted that oppression against the Islamic movement is a historical continuity and emphasized the necessity of unwavering efforts to achieve victory for the faith. Speaking at the ‘Rukon Training Camp 2025’ in Mirpur, he called for unity under Allah’s guidance to ensure peace in the world and salvation in the Hereafter.

Former presidential candidate Muharrem İnce is back in the spotlight as Turkey’s main opposition party, CHP, seeks to bring him back. CHP leader Özgür Özel visited İnce’s Homeland Party HQ, urging him to return. İnce said he would consult his party before deciding. Once a prominent CHP figure, İnce left in 2021 after failed reform efforts. His return could help unite the opposition against President Erdoğan, especially with his own party now polling at a mere 0.17% in recent local elections.

The National Citizen Party (NCP) has finalized its constitution, introducing a three-year term for the central committee and a provision restricting any individual from holding the positions of president or general secretary more than twice. The new constitution received final approval at a general meeting held on Friday, according to Akhtar Hossain, the party’s member secretary.

Hossain explained that the central president and general secretary will be elected independently through votes by councilors from across the country. The party must complete its next council within the last three months of the current term. Additionally, the central president and general secretary will be accountable to the party’s political council.

The political council will consist of 11 to 15 members, including at least three female members, all elected by the councilors. This new framework aims to enhance internal democracy and gender representation within the party leadership.

Islami Andolan Bangladesh has launched its nationwide campaign to select candidates for all 300 parliamentary constituencies ahead of the upcoming elections.

On Friday, the party organized grassroots opinion-gathering events in three constituencies under Dhaka South. Local leaders and activists, including both male and female units, participated in the selection process through a secret ballot.

Based on the grassroots feedback, the central committee will finalize the list of candidates. Speaking at the event, party leader Imtiaz Alam emphasized the need for unity among Dhaka residents to establish a welfare state free from terrorism, extortion, and land grabbing.

He called on the people to stand united for Islam and humanity and to work together to end all forms of tyranny and fascism.

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said that not only BNP supporters but the entire nation is eagerly awaiting the return of party acting chairman Tarique Rahman.

Speaking at a prayer event commemorating late Gano Forum president Mostafa Mohsin Montu, Khasru said, "Tarique Rahman will return to the country soon, and preparations are already in motion."

He also expressed hope that the Election Commission would engage in dialogue with all political parties before making decisions on issues like the abolition of electoral symbols and proposed amendments to the Representation of the People Order (RPO).

Additionally, Khasru confirmed that a BNP delegation will depart for China tomorrow for a three-day official visit, which he believes will strengthen longstanding bilateral ties.