The annual Hajj pilgrimage has officially concluded, with return flights for Bangladeshi pilgrims commencing today and continuing until July 10. Pilgrims completed their rituals, including stoning the devil at Mina and the farewell circumambulation of the Kaaba. Many pilgrims lost their way and sought help from the Bangladeshi Hajj Mission in Makkah. This year, 87,157 Bangladeshis performed Hajj, while 19 pilgrims passed away during the pilgrimage. Saudi authorities have cracked down on illegal activities, shutting down 436 unauthorized Hajj agencies and arresting 462 individuals for violating Hajj regulations.

Despite the long Eid-ul-Azha holiday, Sylhet’s major tourist destinations, including Jaflong, Bichanakandi, and Ratargul, witnessed lower-than-expected turnout this year. Although thousands visited these scenic spots from Eid day through the third day of the festival, numbers were notably lower compared to previous years. Jaflong remained the most popular among visitors, but tourism officials and local businesses expressed disappointment over the diminished influx of tourists.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has defended his decision to deploy the National Guard to California to quell violent riots, calling it a “brilliant move” that saved Los Angeles from total destruction. The riots erupted over anti-immigration raids, leading to violent protests for a third consecutive day. California’s governor, however, has urged Trump to revoke the order, while another Democratic governor called the decision an “alarming abuse of power.”

At least 60 Palestinians have been killed and 388 others wounded in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza over the past 24 hours, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Among the dead were 14 civilians near a humanitarian aid center in Rafah supported by the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). Since the war began in 2023, the death toll in Gaza has reached 54,927, with over 126,000 injured. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen amid relentless Israeli attacks.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused the Trump administration of diverting 20,000 promised anti-drone missiles meant for Ukraine to U.S. forces in the Middle East. These missiles, Zelensky said, were crucial for countering Iranian-designed Shahed drones frequently used by Russian forces. The Biden administration later signed a new deal to address the shortfall. Meanwhile, Russia launched its largest single-night drone and missile attack on Ukraine on Monday, firing 479 drones and 20 missiles in what has been described as the heaviest assault since the war began.

BNP leader Aminul Haque criticized Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus’s recent statement about holding the national election in April 2026, saying it has raised serious concerns among the public and undermined the government’s neutrality. He argued that Bangladeshis expect elections to be held by December this year, questioning Dr. Yunus’s motives and possible alliances. “Is there a conspiracy behind this? What are the hidden agendas? The nation demands answers,” Aminul stated.

BNP leader Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie expressed optimism over reports that Nobel laureate and Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus may meet acting BNP chairman Tarique Rahman during his UK visit. “We are hoping for an election soon,” Annie said. He criticized the government for potentially scheduling elections during Ramadan, citing challenges like storms, academic exams, and limited campaign opportunities. Annie urged for a united opposition against what he called “fascist” forces, stressing that a stronger political unity is essential for Bangladesh’s future.

Tulip Siddiq’s request to meet Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus during his UK visit was denied, as the Bangladesh government reportedly ignored her letter. Facing multiple corruption allegations linked to her aunt Sheikh Hasina's regime, Tulip has resigned from her UK ministerial post. A Dhaka court issued arrest warrants against her and 52 others over land and property scandals. She denies wrongdoing and calls the cases politically motivated. Dr. Yunus is scheduled to meet King Charles and Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London.

A murder case has been filed over the death of Jamaat leader Maulana Kawsar Ahmed Milon (60) in Lakshmipur, naming 12 BNP leaders and activists among 32 accused. Jamaat has since been staging protests demanding justice. However, BNP leaders claim the incident was unrelated to politics, alleging that the altercation stemmed from social issues like theft and drug abuse, leading to Milon’s death, which they describe as natural based on initial reports. BNP leadership has emphasized the need for social resolution, legal action if required, and continued political coexistence despite tensions.

Frequent and prolonged load shedding has plunged around 116,000 residents of Lakshmipur’s Ramgati and Kamalnagar into misery. Locals report experiencing 8 to 10 power outages daily, with electricity remaining unavailable for up to 15 hours a day. Even during the limited periods of supply, low voltage has led to severe damage to electrical appliances like ceiling fans, air conditioners, motors, and refrigerators. Natish Saha, DGM of Palli Bidyut, acknowledged the issue, explaining that the excessive load shedding is not intentional but due to extremely low voltage in the area.

A violent clash broke out between residents of two villages in Faridpur’s Bhanga upazila over obscene songs being played on loudspeakers during a circumcision ceremony. The conflict, which lasted for about two hours late at night, reportedly left at least 25 people injured. Eyewitnesses said the violence escalated after announcements were made over loudspeakers, urging villagers to join the confrontation. Several homes were vandalized, and incidents of looting— including cattle and food— were also reported. The event was organized by Imran Munshi for his son’s circumcision, but tensions flared when a group of youths, led by Liton Matubber, protested the vulgar songs being played, eventually sparking the widespread violence.

Trade Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin stated that the government is working to restore Bangladesh’s leather industry after 15 years of severe mismanagement and decline. Efforts are underway to eliminate illegal syndicates and support orphanages and madrasas involved in hide collection. The government has distributed 750,000 maunds of salt for hide preservation and disbursed Tk 220 crore in incentives to tannery owners. Officials are monitoring the situation across the country, aiming to increase international demand and stabilize local market prices.

Between Friday and Sunday morning, U.S. immigration authorities arrested 118 individuals, sparking growing protests in Los Angeles. As the demonstrations intensified, the White House authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to the city. Commenting on the situation, former President Donald Trump said, “They spit at our officers, they hit our soldiers—you know this is their new tactic. Anyone spitting at law enforcement will face consequences.” California Governor Gavin Newsom blamed Trump for escalating tensions and warned that legal action against him could follow.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has come forward to support Mubin, a teenage computer operator who lost his eyesight after being shot during the anti-autocracy protest on July 18 last year. Mubin, the only earning member of his family, is at risk of permanent blindness due to lack of funds. On Tarique Rahman's directive, BNP's health secretary visited Mubin's home in Shariatpur, delivered financial aid, and assured further treatment. BNP criticized the government's negligence towards injured protesters and called for democratic fairness in elections.

Israeli forces intercepted the aid ship Maudlin en route to Gaza and detained 12 activists, including Greta Thunberg. The vessel, carrying humanitarian supplies, was stopped 185 km off Gaza’s coast. Israel plans to deport all detainees, despite international criticism. The group included citizens from France, Brazil, Spain, and Turkey. France called for an immediate return of its nationals, while Turkey condemned the action as a “heinous attack.” Experts warn the interception violates international maritime and human rights laws.