Following a $2.01 billion payment to the Asian Clearing Union (ACU) for import bills, Bangladesh’s foreign currency reserves have dropped to $29.53 billion. The net reserve now stands at $24.46 billion, down from over $26 billion before the payment. The transaction, made on July 8, covers import liabilities for May and June, reflecting the pressure on the country's reserve position.

The United States has removed Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) from its list of foreign terrorist organizations, marking a significant policy shift under President Trump. The move follows HTS’s leadership in overthrowing Bashar al-Assad and the swearing-in of Ahmed al-Shara as Syria’s new president. Trump earlier lifted U.S. sanctions on Syria after meeting al-Shara in Riyadh. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the decision a step toward peace. Syria welcomed the move and hopes for broader international engagement.

Japan’s $1 trillion investment promise to the U.S. failed to prevent a trade fallout, as President Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Japanese imports, calling Japan “spoiled.” Despite efforts to protect agricultural markets and reduce auto tariffs, negotiations stalled. The breakdown came after a fruitless G7 meeting and ahead of Japan’s elections. Experts warn this could hurt Japan’s economy and force companies to reduce U.S. dependency. Talks for a new deal are ongoing but face steep hurdles.

A recent ICDDR,B study reveals that more than 90% of families in Dhaka’s slums are burdened by debt caused by food insecurity. Over half of these families struggle to secure daily meals due to irregular income, leading to nutritional deficiencies, especially among pregnant women, adolescents, and young children. The study highlights increased anemia, stunting, and underweight issues. The Nutri-Cap project introduced integrated nutrition and health services, improving pregnancy outcomes and child growth in these vulnerable communities.

Twelve members of the Dhaka University unit of Chhatra Dal have been relieved of their duties over alleged negligence in organizational responsibilities. According to a statement signed by Chhatra Dal’s Office Secretary Jahangir Alam and issued on Monday, the central committee took this action based on reports of inaction and failure to fulfill assigned duties. Those removed include: Shahidul Alam Mamun (Joint General Secretary rank), and members Junaid Alam Baghdad, Akiuzzaman Koel, Alam Badsha, Md. Zobaer Alam Chowdhury, Fahim Ahmed, Saleh Mahmood, Md. Nazmul Islam, Raihan Hossain, Sifat Ul Islam, Abdullah Raihan, and Mashfiq Alam Bhuiyan.

Bangladesh’s rapid growth in fish farming is threatened by heavy metal contamination. Recent research found chromium levels in farmed Mrigal fish four times above FAO’s safe limit. Though current levels may not harm humans, concerns arise over heavy metals in fish feed and polluted water sources. Lack of regular pond cleaning and use of contaminated feed contribute to the issue. Experts urge government action to monitor fish feed quality and water safety to ensure the health of consumers and sustain the aquaculture industry.

Jatiya Ganotantrik Party (JAGPA) Presidium Member Asadur Rahman Khan has criticized the interim government for failing to deliver justice, even after 11 months in power. He said, “While fascist Sheikh Hasina is receiving royal treatment in Delhi, her collaborators are laughing — but the people want answers. What has the interim government done with the blood of thousands of martyrs?” Asadur demanded justice for the victims of political violence and called for accountability for India’s aggression and Sheikh Hasina's alleged role in state-sponsored atrocities. He also announced a protest rally and siege of the Indian High Commission on August 6. These remarks were made during a public outreach event in Madaripur that included leaflet distribution and a street meeting.

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has imposed an indefinite ban on all forms of public gatherings in and around the Bangladesh Secretariat, the official residence of the Prime Adviser in Jamuna, and adjacent areas, starting from July 9, 2025. According to the DMP, the ban includes rallies, processions, demonstrations, human chains, sit-ins, and any other type of public assembly. The restriction will remain in place until further notice. Authorities have cited the need to maintain public order and ensure the security of the Prime Adviser as the primary reasons behind the ban. The restricted zone includes key intersections and surrounding areas such as Hotel InterContinental Crossing, Kakrail Mosque Crossing, Officers' Club Crossing, and Minto Road Crossing.

During a White House meeting, Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the possible relocation of Palestinians from Gaza to third countries. Netanyahu said residents should have the option to leave if they choose, while critics warn this signals ethnic cleansing. The leaders also explored partnering with nations interested in Palestinian development. The meeting included talks on Iran, a possible Nobel Peace Prize nomination for Trump, and ongoing ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, which have yet to reach a resolution.

Hasnat Abdullah, chief organizer of the National Citizens Party (NCP) in southern Bangladesh, accused the Bashundhara Group of reviving the cultural and intellectual machinery of fallen fascists. He condemned their role in spreading disinformation and hate against the uprising leaders after August 5, highlighting collaboration with pro-Awami League journalists. Abdullah criticized media figures who distort facts to defend these actions and urged a focus on professional journalism. He warned against empowering fascist collaborators under the guise of media freedom.

Continuous rain in Dhaka since Tuesday morning has brought relief from the heat but increased suffering for commuters. Streets are filled with umbrellas and raincoats, while many low-income workers travel soaked to reach their destinations. Rickshaw pullers struggle with safety and low fares. Pedestrians without umbrellas face major inconvenience. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department forecasts more rain in the coming days, with heavier showers expected in several divisions. Temperatures may slightly drop during the day while remaining steady at night.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has alerted the public about fraudulent activities involving the misuse of the Defense Secretary Md. Ashraf Uddin’s photo and official credentials. Fraudsters are using his mobile numbers and WhatsApp IDs to demand unethical benefits from individuals and organizations. ISPR urges everyone to stay vigilant and reports that legal actions are underway against the perpetrators. Victims are encouraged to contact law enforcement immediately if approached by anyone impersonating the Defense Secretary.

The government is preparing a detailed master plan to safeguard the Haor regions, focusing on embankment construction, tree planting, tourism regulation, and policy development. Initiated in 2023, the plan incorporates local community input and aims to prevent harmful activities like soil extraction. Proposals include floating hospitals for healthcare and sustainable fishery management. The initiative also emphasizes preserving biodiversity and ensuring the livelihoods of millions, securing national food security amid climate challenges and frequent flooding in these unique wetland ecosystems.

Iran has firmly rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s demand to restart nuclear negotiations, with Tehran confirming that it has not requested any talks with the United States. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, stated that no meeting request has been made by Iran to Washington. Previously, Trump and his Middle East envoy had claimed that discussions between Iran and the U.S. would take place in Norway. Last month, amid heightened tensions, Iran’s military and nuclear facilities were targeted in multiple Israeli strikes. In retaliation, Iran launched “Operation True Promise Three.” After 12 days of clashes, a ceasefire was agreed upon on June 24, temporarily easing the hostilities.

Two top leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement in Khulna, Zahurul Islam Tanvir and Sazzadul Islam Azad, have been issued show-cause notices by the central committee after an audio clip demanding 1 million taka extortion from a fair organizer went viral. The organization accuses them of violating discipline and harming its image. Tanvir denies involvement, stating no proof exists that Azad accepted money. An investigation into the financial dealings of the fair is demanded for clarity.