The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has forecast light to moderate rain or thundershowers with temporary gusty winds in various parts of the country. Some areas in Rajshahi, Rangpur, Khulna, and Sylhet divisions may experience rain, while isolated places in Dhaka, Mymensingh, Barishal, and Chattogram divisions may also see similar conditions. The monsoon is currently less active over Bangladesh and weak to moderately active over the North Bay. Day and night temperatures are expected to remain nearly unchanged, with 89% humidity recorded in Dhaka this morning.

In a late-night operation on the Dhaka-Mawa highway, the Bangladesh Army recovered excess fares from 13 bus operators and refunded over 200 passengers. The drive, led by officers from the Jatrabari Army Camp, inspected around 50 buses and found several, including Shatabdi, Kings, and Ilish Paribahan, charging more than BRTA-approved fares. Verified cases of overcharging led to immediate refunds. One bus was fined BDT 10,000 for expired documents, including route permit, fitness certificate, and tax token.

Yemen’s armed forces have claimed responsibility for a drone strike on Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, describing it as a retaliatory act against Israeli aggression in Gaza. The attack reportedly hit its target successfully, according to a Yemeni military spokesperson. Yemen warned of continued operations unless the Gaza blockade and attacks end. Since the Gaza conflict reignited in October 2023, over 54,600 Palestinians—mostly women and children—have died. Yemen’s stance signals growing regional opposition and military pressure against U.S.-Israeli actions in the Middle East.

Six-year-old Sajidul Karim Abrar came from Dubai to his ancestral home in Gondamara, Banshkhali, Chattogram, to celebrate Eid-ul-Azha with his family. Tragically, on Thursday morning around 7:30 AM, he drowned in a pond behind their house. Despite immediate efforts by family and locals to rescue him and rush him to the Upazila Health Complex, doctors declared him dead. The family had recently returned to Bangladesh and traveled to their village home a day before the incident to celebrate Eid.

Md. Ataur Rahman Sarkar, Jamaat-e-Islami’s nominated candidate for Brahmanbaria-4, pledged to transform Kasba-Akhaura into a peaceful and prosperous upazila free from terror, extortion, and drugs. Speaking at a constituency meeting, he emphasized the need for honest, skilled, and God-fearing leadership. He criticized the poor condition of roads between Brahmanbaria and Kasba and urged the interim government for urgent repairs. Eid reunion and outreach programs were finalized. Other Jamaat leaders also spoke at the event, highlighting the party’s local organizational strength.

Sacrificial animal markets in Bandarban have become busy in the final days before Eid-ul-Adha, with high demand for home-raised hill cattle. Buyers prefer these locally raised animals over farm-fattened ones for their variety and lower prices. Markets at Rajar Math, Kalaghata, Balaghata, and along the Sangu River are seeing a surge in activity. However, some sellers report fewer buyers and lower-than-expected sales. Authorities have strengthened security and taken measures against extortion and counterfeit currency to ensure smooth and safe trading.

DSCC Administrator Shahjahan Mia has avoided commenting on when Nagar Bhaban will reopen, calling it a political and sensitive issue. The building has been locked by supporters of BNP leader Ishraque Hossain, who demand he be handed mayoral duties. The prolonged closure has disrupted city services, but essential departments like waste management and transport remain operational. Mia assured that Eid preparations are underway despite challenges. Ward offices remain open for public services, though some disruptions persist. Protesters have temporarily eased the blockade for Eid.

Muhammad Fawzul Kabir Khan, advisor to the Ministries of Road Transport and Railways, confirmed that fuel prices have been reduced, and charging extra bus fare during Eid travel will not be tolerated. After inspecting Saidabad Bus Terminal, he emphasized that authorities are monitoring irregularities and will take strict action against offenders. A recent case of overcharging was addressed with refunds and fines. The government cut diesel prices by 2 taka and petrol and octane by 3 taka per liter for June to ease travel costs.

The National Citizen Party (NCP) urges the government to draft and publish the "July Charter" before declaring the next election date. NCP Convenor Nahid Islam said the charter symbolizes both policy reform and moral obligation to those who sacrificed during the July Movement. In a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador, he emphasized electoral reform, judicial independence, and inclusive participation. The NCP also demands a neutral Election Commission and phased elections to ensure transparency and accountability across all levels of governance.

The National Eidgah in Dhaka is ready to host the main Eid-ul-Azha congregation at 7:30 AM on Saturday, accommodating up to 35,000 worshippers. Mufti Mohammad Abdul Malek will lead the prayer. If the weather is unfavorable, the main prayer will shift to Baitul Mukarram Mosque at 8:00 AM. The area is equipped with top-tier drainage, security, and facilities including separate zones for women, medical services, and VIP sections. Eight temporary cattle markets have also been set up for Eid sacrifices.

The newly formed Cumilla South District Chhatra Dal committee has been suspended just 20 days after its announcement, following protests from leaders who were denied posts. The central leadership cited the ongoing agitation as the reason for the suspension. The partial committee, formed on May 15, faced immediate backlash that escalated into violence. Protesters blocked roads, broke into the local BNP office, and set it on fire, damaging vital documents and office equipment.

With just two days left before Eid-ul-Adha, cattle markets in Laxmipur’s Raipur are seeing heavy footfall. Buyers are mostly interested in small and medium-sized cows, leaving large cow traders worried about low prices. Some have yet to sell a single animal. Prices range from Tk 70,000 to Tk 2.5 lakh depending on size. Authorities report nearly 20,000 sacrificial animals are ready, with veterinary teams deployed for safety. Police remain vigilant to prevent extortion and counterfeit currency.

Two people were killed and 16 others injured in two separate road accidents in Natore on Thursday morning. One accident occurred on the Natore-Bogura highway when a BRTC bus lost control and fell into a roadside ditch while avoiding a covered van, killing one passenger. The other incident involved a collision between a truck and a covered van in Gunaihati, Baraigram, leaving the van driver dead and the helper injured. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has seized 13 years of income tax records belonging to Tulip Siddiq in Bangladesh, along with documents related to a flat registered in her name at Janata Housing Society on Ring Road, Shyamoli.

ACC Director General Akhter Hossain confirmed the seizure, stating that investigators are authorized to confiscate any tax records necessary for an inquiry. Sources indicate that Tulip Siddiq has not submitted any income tax returns in Bangladesh since the 2018-19 fiscal year.

In response to the issuance of the Government Service (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, the interim government has formed a committee to formulate well-considered recommendations regarding the ordinance and related protests. The move aims to assess the evolving situation and engage in dialogue with protesting organizations.

The Cabinet Division announced on Wednesday that the committee will be led by legal adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul. Other members include Muhammad Fauzul Kabir Khan, adviser to the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, and Cabinet Secretary Dr. Sheikh Abdur Rashid.

The committee is tasked with holding discussions with protest leaders and submitting recommendations promptly.