Iran has not made any decision to resume nuclear talks with the United States, said Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, dismissing claims made by former U.S. President Donald Trump. “There are currently no indirect talks with the U.S.,” said Araghchi. “Even when the U.S. supported Israeli attacks on Iran and directly bombed our nuclear sites, they were still attempting negotiations.” He added, “They tried to lure us into giving up our national rights. In times of crisis, they enabled Zionist aggression and pushed us toward war. During negotiations, they betrayed diplomacy. These experiences will guide Iran’s decisions regarding any future nuclear talks.”

At the 47th SAARCFINANCE Governors’ Meeting in Dhaka, Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur emphasized financial inclusion, proposing that every school student should have a bank account. He highlighted the importance of early financial literacy to prepare future generations for economic participation. Despite political differences in South Asia, he stressed continued collaboration among SAARC central banks. The event focused on bridging financial gaps through policy exchange, shared research, and technological initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive growth in the region.

Bangladesh’s interbank transactions have plunged by over Tk 1 trillion in just one month, as the country continues to grapple with an economic downturn, declining credit flow in the private sector, and a liquidity crisis. According to a report by Bangladesh Bank, interbank transactions in February 2025 dropped by Tk 1.13 trillion compared to January. However, the February 2025 figures are still higher by Tk 444.02 billion compared to the same month last year. Sources say 11 banks, currently under scrutiny for financial mismanagement, are struggling to meet transaction demands. Several weaker banks are unable to repay borrowed funds from the interbank market, contributing to the overall decline in transactions.

Following a meeting with the Gono Adhikar Parishad on Thursday, BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury stated that the party intends to implement its 31-point reform agenda in coordination with allied groups. He further added, "Both parties are satisfied that a preliminary announcement regarding the upcoming election schedule is expected by February. We’ve discussed our collective strategy for the coming days, including pre-election activities and how we can jointly work toward implementing the 31-point agenda." Khasru also confirmed that the progress of recent meetings in London was reviewed, and reforms will be made based on mutual consensus. Referring to Ishraque Hossain, he said, “If we truly believe in the rule of law, it is only natural for Ishraque to assume mayoral responsibilities.”

In a shocking turn of events, one leader of the National Citizens' Committee (NCP) physically assaulted another in Rajshahi, sending the victim to the hospital. The incident occurred around 11 PM on Wednesday at a restaurant in the city’s Rani Bazar area. According to sources, the restaurant is owned by Rashedul Islam, Chief Coordinator of the NCP’s Rajshahi District Coordination Committee. The injured leader has been identified as Firoz Alam, a Joint Coordinator of the same committee. Allegedly, he was assaulted by fellow Joint Coordinator Nahidul Islam Saju. Nahid has since claimed that the incident was the result of a misunderstanding, which has now been resolved.

Asadul Islam, President of the Islami Chhatra Shibir at Jagannath University, has publicly condemned Chhatra Dal President Rakibul Islam Rakib for allegedly calling him a member of Chhatra League. In a strongly worded statement, Asadul labeled the accusation as "baseless, defamatory, and degrading." He urged Rakib to withdraw his statement and accused him of lacking leadership qualities. Asadul concluded by advising, “If you can’t speak or act for your own organization and ideology, at least have the decency to remain silent.”

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz revealed that the country had considered targeting Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during recent military escalations, but found no viable opportunity. When asked whether the U.S. had been consulted, Katz said, "We do not require U.S. approval for such actions." In response, Khamenei declared that Israel’s "fake Zionist regime has been defeated in war" and claimed Iran has "slapped the U.S. in the face."

Russian forces claim to have seized control of a village near lithium deposits in eastern Ukraine, despite fierce Ukrainian resistance. The Russian Defense Ministry said on Thursday that they have taken control of Novoselivka and Shevchenko in Donetsk. Meanwhile, both Russia and Ukraine have conducted another prisoner exchange, with soldiers returning to their respective countries. However, there has been no progress on peace talks.

At least 71 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed in the latest Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, according to the local health ministry. The death toll may rise. The Gaza administration reported that 549 people have died at aid distribution centers operated by the controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation in the past month, describing the centers as "death traps." Israel’s security minister has threatened to shut down these relief hubs.

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi warned that Iran could trigger a fresh crisis if it continues to obstruct international inspectors from accessing its nuclear sites. While acknowledging significant setbacks in Iran’s nuclear program, Grossi stated, "I wouldn’t say it has collapsed." He emphasized Iran’s legal obligation under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) to allow inspections, warning that further non-cooperation would place Iran in violation of international law.

Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), Air Vice Marshal M. Monjur Kabir Bhuiyan, announced that Cox’s Bazar Airport is expected to commence international operations by the end of July. All preparations are reportedly complete, and contractors have been urged to expedite any final tasks. The airport runway, extended from 9,000 to 10,700 feet, includes a 1,300-foot stretch over the sea—the first of its kind in the country.

The army has arrested six individuals, including Chand Ali Khan, the BNP’s Pabna Upazila President, for allegedly assaulting a government official. Kazi Rakibul Hasan, Assistant Director of the Rajbari Consumer Rights Protection Department, was attacked in his office. Police confirmed that the suspects forcibly entered the office and obstructed official duties. The other detainees include Ruhul Amin, Md. Bacchu Biswas, Mamun Shikder, Md. Farid Hossain, and Md. Shishir Karim.

Students at Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur (BRUR), have launched a sit-in protest rejecting a recent report by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT). Demonstrators blocked administrative building gates and demanded a fair investigation into the killing of student Abu Sayeed. Protest leader Raihan Kabir argued that a Dhaka-based investigation is unacceptable, as the incident took place on campus and involved police action. He claimed the university administration is being scapegoated and criticized the former proctor being framed as the instigator. The protest will continue until the report is officially withdrawn.

The government has officially designated July 16 as Shaheed Abu Saeed Day. This date will now be observed annually as a national and international commemorative day under the ‘Category B’ classification. Relevant ministries, departments, and organizations have been instructed to ensure proper observance of the day. The announcement was made through a circular issued by the Cabinet Division on June 25. This move aims to honor the legacy and sacrifice of Shaheed Abu Saeed through nationwide recognition.

Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old Democratic socialist, has energized New York’s mayoral primary with his grassroots campaign and candid political style. Walking Manhattan streets for hours, Mamdani connected with voters seeking a mayor who is approachable and outspoken. His strong stance against Israel’s actions in Gaza, and promises to expand affordable housing, free childcare, and public transit, have gained him wide support, especially among young voters. Facing the general election, Mamdani’s challenge lies in fulfilling his ambitious vision amid high expectations.