The age-old “Dholon” system in mango trading—where farmers lost out due to extra, unpaid weight—has been abolished in Rajshahi, Natore, Naogaon, and Chapainawabganj. Following a divisional meeting, a new commission-based system was introduced, allowing wholesalers to charge Tk 1.50 per kilogram. The change aims to ensure fair pricing and reduce market disorder. While some farmers remain frustrated, most agreed to the compromise. The decision came after repeated clashes among growers, traders, and officials over outdated practices.

Israel’s ongoing 20-month military operation in Gaza has led to a severe soldier shortage, pushing women into critical frontline positions. Previously limited to border and checkpoint duties, female soldiers are now deployed in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. The Israeli army admits a deficit of over 10,000 troops, worsened by many reservists suffering mental trauma. To address the crisis, the government is also conscripting Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men after the Supreme Court revoked their exemption, aiming to strengthen military ranks.

Forty-one Israeli soldiers from intelligence and cyber warfare units have resigned from the military, refusing to take part in what they call the genocidal attacks on Gaza led by Prime Minister Netanyahu’s fight for political survival. They emphasized that the ongoing violence is not about security or rescuing hostages but maintaining political power. Israeli authorities report 56 hostages trapped in Gaza, with 20 believed alive. Human rights groups say over 10,100 Palestinians remain imprisoned in Israeli jails.

Indonesia has signed a $10 billion contract with Turkey to purchase 48 fifth-generation fighter jets, marking Turkey’s largest defense export deal. The agreement was finalized at the Indo Defence 2025 exhibition in Jakarta, with plans for joint production of some jet parts in Indonesia over a 10-year period. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan thanked Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto for the partnership. Analysts view this as a significant milestone, with Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabia also showing interest in the project.

Journalists Farzana Rupa and Shakil Ahmed have been released on parole from Kashimpur Jail following the death of Rupa’s mother. Jail Superintendent Mosha Kawalin Nahar confirmed that the two former Ekattor TV senior staff members were granted parole at around 6 PM. After completing formalities, they will be brought back to the prison, she added.

A 5.9 magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan’s east coast near Hualien City on Wednesday evening, according to the US Geological Survey. The quake occurred about 31 kilometers deep and 71 kilometers south of Hualien. No casualties or damage have been reported so far, local fire officials said. Residents described strong shaking, stronger than previous tremors. This comes months after a deadly 7.4 magnitude earthquake in April 2024 caused significant destruction and killed at least 17 people in the region.

Chattogram Port is facing growing congestion as over 100 cargo vessels remain stuck due to delays in cargo clearance during the extended Eid-ul-Azha holidays. Importers' reluctance and the inactivity of key service agencies have slowed operations. Despite efforts by port authorities, delivery volumes remain below normal. Over 40,000 TEUs are currently piled up in port yards, raising demurrage costs and extending vessel turnaround times. Officials expect partial normalization by mid-next week, warning of economic risks if the situation persists.

Professor Muhammad Yunus met UK National Security Advisor Jonathan Powell in London to discuss Bangladesh’s smuggled funds, the Rohingya refugee crisis, geopolitical issues, and democratic reforms. Yunus urged UK support for the upcoming UN Rohingya Conference and emphasized Britain’s role in Rohingya repatriation. He claimed $234 billion was laundered during Sheikh Hasina’s 16-year rule. Powell praised Yunus’s leadership and assured continued UK support. Officials including Bangladesh’s National Security Advisor Dr. Khalilur Rahman were also present.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has announced that Turkey will manufacture and export 48 KAAN fighter jets to Indonesia as part of a newly signed defense agreement between the two nations. Erdoğan added that Indonesia’s own technological expertise will be integrated into the production of the fifth-generation KAAN jets, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries. “This deal reflects the progress and success of our national defense industry. It will benefit both Turkey and Indonesia,” he stated.

Billionaire Elon Musk has expressed regret over his recent social media posts about U.S. President Donald Trump. Musk acknowledged on the platform X that he may have exaggerated his criticisms but did not specify which comments he regrets. The conflict began over a tax and spending budget bill, prompting Musk to resign from a Trump administration position. Following Trump's announcement that their relationship was over, Musk made several strong remarks about the president and the bill before expressing his remorse.

Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the Interim Government, stated that the upcoming July election will be the first fair and historic vote in 17 years. He confirmed that the 'July Charter' will be presented to the nation soon. Yunus expressed no desire to hold office post-election and hopes for a free, fair, and inclusive poll. Addressing the Rohingya crisis, he emphasized ongoing government efforts amid funding challenges. He also called for urgent global action to reform a self-destructive civilization.

Preparations are underway to release the SSC and equivalent exam results within 60 days of the exam conclusion, according to Professor Dr. Khandokar Ehsanul Kabir, Chairman of the Dhaka Education Board. The exams ended on May 13, with over 1.9 million candidates awaiting results. Despite eager anticipation, delays in answer script evaluation have slowed the process. The official date will be proposed to the Ministry of Education for approval, aiming for results publication by July 13.

Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus has stated he will not participate in the next elected government, emphasizing that their role is to ensure a smooth and fair transfer of power through elections. He criticized the Awami League for alleged human rights abuses and corruption, calling their status as a political party questionable. Yunus highlighted the importance of restoring order and media freedom. He also addressed recent controversies, stressing the challenges faced in managing the situation and the nation’s decision to suspend Awami League activities temporarily.

Employee organizations protesting against the ‘Public Service (Amendment) Ordinance 2025’ remain firm in their demand for its complete withdrawal. While they acknowledged the government’s decision to form an advisory committee as a positive step, the organizations declared that the matter has already been settled and there will be no further negotiations. They have announced that protests will continue after the Eid holidays. Meanwhile, the Anti-Discrimination Employees Unity Forum has also declared plans to stage sit-ins at the Secretariat after Eid to press for their four-point demands.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has stated that the nation has decided to temporarily suspend Awami League’s political activities in the interest of national security and political stability. Speaking during a discussion, Yunus declared that Bangladesh is on track to hold its most transparent and fair election in 17 years. He accused the Awami League of involvement in killings, disappearances, and financial crimes, questioning whether it should even be considered a political party. He claimed that the chapter of the Awami League’s rule ended on August 5 with Sheikh Hasina’s departure from the country. “Until the trials are completed, Awami League’s activities will remain suspended,” he asserted.