Professor Dr. Ali Riaz, Vice President of the National Consensus Commission, has expressed hope that a National Charter could be finalized by mid-July. While he acknowledged slow daily progress, he noted that both formal and informal dialogues among political parties are yielding positive momentum. He emphasized that parties must prioritize national interest over partisan agendas. Most parties favor a bicameral legislature and seat allocation based on vote share in the upper house, though some disagreement remains.

Press Secretary Shafiqur Rahman has made it clear that he has no intention of joining any political party or becoming a Member of Parliament. He expressed a desire to avoid the lifestyle associated with political influence, citing concerns about corruption. Once the interim government completes its tenure, he plans to return to journalism and continue working on projects such as the “July Uprising.” Despite safety concerns following recent political changes, he said he relies fully on God for protection.

Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) KM Nurul Huda has testified that the 2018 general election was marred by widespread irregularities, including 90–100% voter turnout in some centers—an indication that votes were cast the night before. He stated that field officials were under the influence of then Election Commission Secretary Helaluddin and that the ruling Awami League manipulated the process. Huda said he lacked the authority to annul the election results after the official gazette was published. He also clarified he had no personal involvement with his nephew SM Shahzada, who contested the election.

Finance Advisor Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed has stated that ongoing reforms in the banking and SME sectors will be completed by December 2025, aiming to restore transparency and public confidence. He acknowledged structural weaknesses in struggling banks and emphasized coordinated efforts by the government and Bangladesh Bank to modernize the SME sector. He added that complications over the planned division of the National Board of Revenue (NBR) led the IMF to avoid a scheduled meeting on loan relief. He further noted that the IMF disregarded a formal letter from the NBR chairman, prompting him to provide an explanation.

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.