Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has firmly rejected the idea of a Palestinian state, claiming it poses a direct threat to Israel’s security and violates its historical rights. In response to French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement to formally recognize Palestine, Katz accused Macron of "surrendering to terrorism." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed this stance, expressing strong opposition. Meanwhile, Macron reaffirmed France's commitment to a two-state solution and emphasized disarmament of Hamas and reconstruction of Gaza. Ireland, Spain, and Norway have already recognized Palestinian statehood.

Asian passports are becoming stronger worldwide, but Pakistan’s passport remains one of the weakest, ranking 96th in the Henley Passport Index 2025. Pakistani passport holders can travel visa-free to only 32 destinations. In contrast, Bangladesh ranks 94th with access to 39 countries visa-free. Singapore tops the list, followed by Japan and South Korea. India has made the most progress recently, climbing eight spots. The UAE has also risen significantly, entering the top 10 for the first time.

The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) repatriated 71 Myanmar nationals from 20 families who had entered Bangladesh illegally during communal unrest in Myanmar. These families lived alongside local hill communities in Naikhongchhari for over a year before being safely sent back through the Baishfari and Tumbro border areas. The BGB 34th Battalion has been closely monitoring the situation to maintain border security, prevent illegal entry, and combat smuggling and drug trafficking while upholding a humanitarian approach.

Russia is set to introduce a new digital app called ‘Max,’ pre-installed on all new devices from September, aiming to enhance government control over citizens’ online activities. The app offers messaging, video calls, government services, and mobile payments but stores data within Russia, allowing the FSB to monitor users. Experts warn this could lead to banning popular apps like WhatsApp, forcing citizens to switch to ‘Max’ and marking a significant step in Russia’s expanding digital surveillance.

Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Dr. Shafiqur Rahman expressed hope that elections will be held early next year, but stressed that fundamental reforms and visible punishment of top criminals must precede them. He lamented that the people were unable to vote in the last three elections, calling it a national tragedy. Dr. Rahman warned that failure to punish criminals will lead the youth back to the streets, this time in a fight against corruption. Jamaat has started documenting the victims and martyrs of the July mass uprising and promises to honor these families if they come to power.

Nahid Islam, convener of the National Citizens Party (NCP), criticized India’s border killings and the policy of Muslim oppression. Speaking at a rally in Habiganj, Nahid stated that their struggle continues against Mujibism and fascist governance. He warned that extortionist and land-grabbing politics are resurfacing in the country and urged the public to stand against these threats. Emphasizing human rights, he called for unity among Muslims, Dalits, and oppressed groups across South Asia to build solidarity.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has condemned the rise in mob justice, stating that it is fostering widespread public fear. Speaking at a membership drive event in Moulvibazar on Thursday, Rizvi urged the public to hand over any suspected criminals to law enforcement instead of taking the law into their own hands.

He also criticized police inaction regarding a recent attack on NCP leaders in Gopalganj. "During our movements, police could locate and arrest BNP leaders from hiding places—where are they now?" Rizvi questioned. The event was also addressed by other central and local BNP leaders.

BNP leader Dr. Abdul Moin Khan criticized the use of NGO and corporate policies in governance, warning they could lead to disaster. Speaking at a PRI seminar, he accused NBR officials of taking bribes and stressed the need for free expression to ensure fair elections. He questioned Bangladesh Bank’s dollar rate control and criticized the country’s weak tariff agreements. Dr. Khan emphasized building public trust to ensure political stability, saying Bangladesh’s emotional and complex society demands responsible leadership.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has directed his military to maintain full readiness for real war, urging forces to develop the capability to annihilate enemies in combat. He issued the order while observing a live-fire artillery drill. The warning comes amid increasing North Korean military support for Russia in the Ukraine war. Intelligence reports suggest Pyongyang has sent weapons and troops, with hundreds reportedly killed. Kim also pledged full backing for Moscow and signed a mutual defense pact with Putin during a rare summit.

Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has located two properties in Virginia, USA, allegedly owned by Sajeeb Wazed Joy, son of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, purchased in 2014 and 2024. The properties, valued at over BDT 53 crore, were not declared in his income records. The ACC is initiating legal steps to seize them and may involve U.S. authorities. Additionally, the ACC is investigating claims of 13 more properties and a shopping mall in Joy's name in the United States.

The Secondary and Higher Education Division has issued the admission policy for class 11 for the 2025-26 academic year. Admission will be based solely on SSC or equivalent exam results, with no entrance test. Students from various streams can choose from multiple departments, including science, humanities, business, Islamic studies, and vocational courses. Reserved quotas include 2% for children of education ministry employees and 5% for children of freedom fighters. Admission will be merit-based, and application certifications from relevant authorities are required.

Iran has outlined crucial conditions before engaging in talks with the U.S., including restoring trust, rejecting the use of negotiations for secret agendas or military threats, honoring Iran’s nuclear rights under the NPT, and lifting sanctions. Tehran remains distrustful of Washington and prepared for military defense. Past indirect talks, mediated by Oman, were disrupted after Israeli attacks on Iranian sites. Following Israeli and U.S. strikes, Iran launched retaliatory missile attacks on Israel and the U.S. base in Qatar. A ceasefire was later implemented to temporarily halt the conflict.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in London to sign a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom, described as a turning point in bilateral ties. The deal, finalized after legal reviews, promises increased market access, job creation, and economic growth for both countries. It includes tariff reductions on key goods like textiles, leather, cars, and whisky, and features a social security pact. The agreement also paves the way for £6 billion in new investments and expanded operations by British companies in India.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that Iran is fully prepared for a second round of war with Israel if necessary. He expressed skepticism about the current ceasefire and reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to its uranium enrichment program, claiming it complies with international law. Despite taking a tough stance, he indicated openness to diplomacy but stressed that Iran will not compromise its sovereignty. Tensions remain high following recent military clashes involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

In a major policy shift, former President Donald Trump now supports the crypto industry as the U.S. Congress passes the Genius Act, granting legal status to stablecoins. These digital currencies must be backed by U.S. dollars or equivalent assets, ensuring stability and safer transactions. The law addresses long-standing demands for regulation, boosting investor confidence. While critics warn of potential risks from increased tech-company involvement in finance, supporters see it as a step toward a modern, innovative financial system.