Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping have jointly condemned Israel’s recent military strikes on Iran, describing them as a clear violation of the United Nations Charter. In a phone call held on Thursday, both leaders called for immediate de-escalation and stressed that a diplomatic resolution—not a military one—is the only viable solution to concerns over Iran’s nuclear program and regional tensions. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov stated, “Both Moscow and Beijing believe there is no military solution to the Iranian nuclear issue.” President Xi further emphasized the responsibility of major powers in the region, urging them to take a more active diplomatic role in reducing tensions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed that Russian specialists will remain in Iran despite growing fears of an Israeli attack. He emphasized the ongoing collaboration at Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant and ruled out any withdrawal. Putin stated that while Iran hasn't asked for new military aid, Moscow maintains strong ties and open communication. He warned against regime-change strategies and called for diplomatic dialogue that ensures both Iran’s and Israel’s security. His remarks underscore Russia’s strategic positioning in the Middle East.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, in a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, stressed the need for major powers to ease tensions in the Iran-Israel conflict, subtly referencing the United States without naming it. He criticized actions that might escalate the situation, echoing growing global concerns. Both leaders condemned Israel’s recent strikes and called for an immediate ceasefire. Putin reiterated Russia’s offer to mediate. Xi warned that unchecked conflict could spread and destabilize the broader region.

In response to escalating foreign aggression, Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage responsible for transporting 20% of the world’s daily oil supply. This move comes amid heightened conflict between Iran and Israel. Commercial ships are already avoiding the area, causing uncertainty in global trade. Analysts warn that shutting the strait could trigger major disruptions in the global energy market and send a strong economic and strategic message to the Western world.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has claimed that Israel’s appeal for U.S. assistance is evidence of its declining strength and incapacity. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, Khamenei said, “The way American allies are getting involved and making public statements reveals just how fragile and powerless the Zionist regime has become.” His remarks came shortly after Israel’s Defense Minister stated that eliminating Iran’s Supreme Leader was a primary objective.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is investigating allegations involving Tulip Rizwana Siddiq, daughter of Sheikh Rehana, over the illegal acquisition of two Gulshan apartments. The flats were reportedly obtained without payment through misuse of power and in collusion with officials from Eastern Housing and RAJUK. In connection with the probe, the ACC has summoned nine former RAJUK officials, including a former chairman, to appear on June 22 and 23 for questioning regarding their roles in facilitating the fraudulent registration and ownership transfer.

Wealth inequality across Europe has widened since the 2008 financial crisis, with Sweden and Germany showing the highest disparity and Belgium the lowest, according to UBS's Global Wealth Report 2024. The Gini index, used to measure inequality, was 75 in Sweden and 46 in Belgium. Inequality rose sharply in Finland, Spain, and Italy, while countries like Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland saw declines. Experts link this trend to rising financial asset concentration and uneven housing values.

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.

A five-member committee has been formed to ensure the autonomy of state-owned Bangladesh Television (BTV) and Bangladesh Betar, following recommendations from the Media Reform Commission. The committee will create a roadmap for implementing these suggestions and review the media policies of the past 15 years. It will also help formulate future policies for television and other media outlets. The decision was made at a meeting chaired by Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus. Education Advisor C.R. Abrar will lead the committee, which includes four other key advisors.

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.

Oil prices spiked sharply on Thursday following Israeli airstrikes targeting Iran’s Natanz and Arak nuclear facilities. Brent crude futures rose by 88 cents, or 1.15%, to settle at $77.58 per barrel. The previous day, oil prices had dipped as much as 2.7% before a slight recovery of 0.3%. According to a Reuters report, the sudden jump reflects investor concerns about the potential for a broader conflict in the Middle East, which could significantly disrupt global oil supply chains.

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.

Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Khatibzadeh condemned Israel’s recent attack on Iranian nuclear facilities, calling it a “very bad move” based on mere assumptions. He stressed that Iran was still engaged in negotiations until Israel’s act of sabotage. Responding to questions about Iran’s nuclear ambitions, he denied the justification for war on assumptions. Meanwhile, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei urged Iranians to remain steadfast and unafraid, warning that fear would only embolden the enemy. Israel is believed to possess nuclear weapons but neither confirms nor denies it.

Jamaat-e-Islami leader Mohammad Selim Uddin said that while the August 5 mass movement succeeded in toppling the Awami regime, true victory remains out of reach. “Influences from the previous regime still persist across state institutions,” he claimed. He demanded immediate structural reforms, full implementation of the ‘July Declaration,’ visible justice for political killings, and transfer of power through free and fair elections.