The World Bank has approved a $640 million loan for Bangladesh to strengthen energy security and improve air quality.

Gail Martin, the World Bank Country Director for Bangladesh, stated, “It is crucial to address the challenges of limited gas supply and urban air pollution in Bangladesh. These two projects will contribute to economic growth, enhance productivity, and create employment opportunities.”

Of the total, $350 million will be allocated to enhance energy sector security, while $290 million will be used for the Clean Air Project, which aims to adopt a comprehensive approach to tackling air pollution.

South Korea’s military has confirmed that North Korea launched 10 multiple-launch missiles from Sunan, near Pyongyang, toward the northwest. While specific details are still limited, officials noted that the projectiles are believed to be short-range ballistic missiles. Such missile tests violate United Nations Security Council resolutions, which North Korea continues to disregard.

According to Reuters, Turkey is intensifying efforts to develop an integrated air and missile defense system using domestically produced radar and weapons technologies. The initiative aims to boost preparedness for potential military conflicts. During recent Israeli strikes on Iran, Turkey reportedly launched quick reaction alert aircraft and maintained aerial patrols along its borders despite no irregular migration flow from Iran, indicating heightened vigilance.

RAB-13 has seized 397 bottles of Phensedyl and 25.5 kilograms of cannabis in two separate anti-drug raids in Rangpur and Lalmonirhat, with an estimated value of Tk 25 million. Four individuals were arrested, and a microbus was also confiscated. The drugs were recovered from a deep tube well house in Dinajpur and a microbus in Kaliganj. All suspects have been handed over to the police for further legal action. RAB confirmed the news in an official press release on Thursday.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has pushed back against recent reporting by the Wall Street Journal, saying the outlet has no insight into his position on Iran.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “The Wall Street Journal has no idea what I’m thinking regarding Iran. I haven’t made a decision yet. Everyone’s asking, but let’s see what happens.”

The Wall Street Journal had earlier reported that Trump’s team had given preliminary approval for strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities but held off on final authorization, hoping that Tehran might reconsider its nuclear ambitions.

Rice and vegetable prices have spiked across Dhaka within a week, with rice rising by up to Tk 5 per kg and vegetables by Tk 40 per kg. Traders and consumers suspect syndicate manipulation, while millers cite increased paddy prices. Heavy rains have disrupted vegetable supply, causing further inflation. While chicken prices remain stable, eggs have become cheaper. Fish prices rose, but beef and mutton became slightly cheaper. Market volatility continues, sparking concerns among daily shoppers and prompting calls for government intervention.

Driven by affordable technology and internet expansion, global social media usage is rising rapidly. Over 5.22 billion people—63.8% of the world’s population—are now active on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Statista predicts this will exceed 6 billion by 2028. While social media boosts communication and business, growing concerns include misinformation, addiction, privacy breaches, and mental health issues. Youth and even older adults are increasingly engaged, with average users spending over 2.5 hours daily across seven platforms.

Ferry operations are resuming at Shimulia Ghat in Munshiganj to restore the area's river heritage and ensure navigability of the Padma River through regular dredging. Adviser to the Ministry of Shipping, Brig. Gen. (Retd.) Dr. M. Sakhawat Hossain announced the move while inaugurating BIWTA’s Dredge Training Institute. He highlighted ten proposed development projects for the area, including a river port and eco-park. Three projects will be fast-tracked. A two-week dredging training course was also launched at the event.

Speaking at a stakeholder meeting in Rajshahi on Thursday, Dr. Bidhan Ranjan Roy Poddar, Adviser to the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education, emphasized the need for a formal policy on fee structures in private kindergartens and educational institutions.

“There are no objections to operating private schools or kindergartens, but there must be clear regulations on how much they can charge students. Institutions should not be allowed to impose arbitrary fees,” he said. He also stressed that the curriculum and syllabi of such institutions must remain under government oversight to ensure consistency and accountability in education.

The Swiss National Bank has reported that deposits by Bangladeshi nationals in Swiss banks surged by 33 times in 2024, the year of the mass uprising, reaching an estimated BDT 8,500 crore.

Experts suggest the dramatic rise is linked to capital flight triggered by fears of regime collapse and the widespread corruption and money laundering that occurred during the Awami League’s rule.

Fisheries Adviser Farida Akhtar emphasized that safeguarding hilsa, Bangladesh’s national fish, is a collective national duty. Speaking at a workshop in Dhaka, she said hilsa has brought global prestige to the country. She addressed public concern over high prices, noting that quality products often cost more and hilsa should be enjoyed occasionally. The adviser urged fair pricing and market regulation. Experts highlighted that conservation efforts since 2014 have increased hilsa production and reduced jatka fishing through seasonal bans and awareness campaigns.

Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has confirmed that the government plans to release the “July Declaration” ahead of August 5. A new committee, led by Planning Adviser Dr. Wahiduddin Mahmood, has been formed to oversee the initiative.

He also revealed that discussions are ongoing to grant autonomous status to BTV and Bangladesh Betar. Another committee, led by Adviser C. R. Abrar, has been formed to examine this matter.

Following Ishraq Hossain's declaration as mayor and his attempt to assume control of city corporation functions, Adviser Asif Mahmud stated that “this is no longer a situation where silence is an option.” He indicated that a government decision will be made soon after high-level discussions.

On the disruption of civic services during dengue season, he acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly in Dhaka South City Corporation. “We are trying to maintain essential services as much as possible—even if remotely,” he said.

Moinul Islam Chowdhury, Chairman of the Disappearance Commission, has claimed that during the Awami League's tenure, anti-terrorism campaigns were used as a political tool to consolidate power and gain international legitimacy. He revealed that of the 1,850 complaints received by the commission, evidence has been found for 253 enforced disappearances.

He alleged that law enforcement agencies became politically influenced and that a culture of torture and secret detention was institutionalized—even to the extent of handing over Bangladeshi citizens to Indian forces.

Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Md. Sanaullah has announced a draft of the 2025 Code of Conduct for political parties and candidates, which proposes a ban on posters during election campaigns. Instead, candidates may use billboards, banners, flyers, and social media platforms for promotion—though foreign-funded advertisements on social media will be prohibited.

He also stated that returning officers will set up a common platform for candidates to present their manifestos to voters. Moreover, individuals serving as heads or members of educational institution committees must resign before contesting elections.