BNP senior leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has accused a malicious group of deliberately spreading false propaganda against Dr. Zobaida Rahman and her daughter Zaima Rahman on social media using fake IDs. He stated that these attacks are premeditated and often involve AI technology. Rizvi emphasized that neither Dr. Zobaida nor Zaima have official Facebook accounts. He warned that those responsible must face legal action, criticizing law enforcement for inaction. Rizvi urged for exemplary punishment to uphold truth in democracy.

Muhammad Fauzul Karim Khan, Road Transport and Railway Advisor, stated that despite some limitations, this year’s Eid travel has been comfortable with no passenger complaints about hardships. He highlighted strict monitoring against ticketless travel and enhanced security at Kamalapur Railway Station. Roof travel on trains was discouraged, though some leniency was allowed for humanitarian reasons. Additionally, mobile courts intensified checks on road fares, resulting in a 5,000-taka fine on a Lal Shobuj bus at Saidabad.

A 65-year-old man, Shahidullah Dhonu, was deceived by a gang using scopolamine, known locally as ‘Devil’s Breath,’ to steal his Qurbani money. After withdrawing 50,000 taka from Islami Bank in Basurhat, Noakhali, Shahidullah was approached by a stranger claiming to know his sons abroad. During a handshake, the man secretly took the cash. Police are investigating and trying to catch the criminals who typically operate quickly and flee the area.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has forecast light to moderate rain or thundershowers with temporary gusty winds in various parts of the country. Some areas in Rajshahi, Rangpur, Khulna, and Sylhet divisions may experience rain, while isolated places in Dhaka, Mymensingh, Barishal, and Chattogram divisions may also see similar conditions. The monsoon is currently less active over Bangladesh and weak to moderately active over the North Bay. Day and night temperatures are expected to remain nearly unchanged, with 89% humidity recorded in Dhaka this morning.

In a late-night operation on the Dhaka-Mawa highway, the Bangladesh Army recovered excess fares from 13 bus operators and refunded over 200 passengers. The drive, led by officers from the Jatrabari Army Camp, inspected around 50 buses and found several, including Shatabdi, Kings, and Ilish Paribahan, charging more than BRTA-approved fares. Verified cases of overcharging led to immediate refunds. One bus was fined BDT 10,000 for expired documents, including route permit, fitness certificate, and tax token.

Yemen’s armed forces have claimed responsibility for a drone strike on Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport, describing it as a retaliatory act against Israeli aggression in Gaza. The attack reportedly hit its target successfully, according to a Yemeni military spokesperson. Yemen warned of continued operations unless the Gaza blockade and attacks end. Since the Gaza conflict reignited in October 2023, over 54,600 Palestinians—mostly women and children—have died. Yemen’s stance signals growing regional opposition and military pressure against U.S.-Israeli actions in the Middle East.

Six-year-old Sajidul Karim Abrar came from Dubai to his ancestral home in Gondamara, Banshkhali, Chattogram, to celebrate Eid-ul-Azha with his family. Tragically, on Thursday morning around 7:30 AM, he drowned in a pond behind their house. Despite immediate efforts by family and locals to rescue him and rush him to the Upazila Health Complex, doctors declared him dead. The family had recently returned to Bangladesh and traveled to their village home a day before the incident to celebrate Eid.

Md. Ataur Rahman Sarkar, Jamaat-e-Islami’s nominated candidate for Brahmanbaria-4, pledged to transform Kasba-Akhaura into a peaceful and prosperous upazila free from terror, extortion, and drugs. Speaking at a constituency meeting, he emphasized the need for honest, skilled, and God-fearing leadership. He criticized the poor condition of roads between Brahmanbaria and Kasba and urged the interim government for urgent repairs. Eid reunion and outreach programs were finalized. Other Jamaat leaders also spoke at the event, highlighting the party’s local organizational strength.

Sacrificial animal markets in Bandarban have become busy in the final days before Eid-ul-Adha, with high demand for home-raised hill cattle. Buyers prefer these locally raised animals over farm-fattened ones for their variety and lower prices. Markets at Rajar Math, Kalaghata, Balaghata, and along the Sangu River are seeing a surge in activity. However, some sellers report fewer buyers and lower-than-expected sales. Authorities have strengthened security and taken measures against extortion and counterfeit currency to ensure smooth and safe trading.

DSCC Administrator Shahjahan Mia has avoided commenting on when Nagar Bhaban will reopen, calling it a political and sensitive issue. The building has been locked by supporters of BNP leader Ishraque Hossain, who demand he be handed mayoral duties. The prolonged closure has disrupted city services, but essential departments like waste management and transport remain operational. Mia assured that Eid preparations are underway despite challenges. Ward offices remain open for public services, though some disruptions persist. Protesters have temporarily eased the blockade for Eid.

Russia and Ukraine are preparing for their biggest prisoner exchange yet, with 1,200 captives from each side set to be released between June 7 and 9. Russian advisor Vladimir Medinsky stated this could be the largest swap since the war began. Peace talks in Istanbul continue, with Russia proposing a two-phase peace plan and Ukraine insisting on an immediate ceasefire before leadership-level meetings. Russia also plans to return 6,000 Ukrainian soldiers' bodies and retrieve its own, signaling a shift toward long-term peace.

Muhammad Fawzul Kabir Khan, advisor to the Ministries of Road Transport and Railways, confirmed that fuel prices have been reduced, and charging extra bus fare during Eid travel will not be tolerated. After inspecting Saidabad Bus Terminal, he emphasized that authorities are monitoring irregularities and will take strict action against offenders. A recent case of overcharging was addressed with refunds and fines. The government cut diesel prices by 2 taka and petrol and octane by 3 taka per liter for June to ease travel costs.

The National Citizen Party (NCP) urges the government to draft and publish the "July Charter" before declaring the next election date. NCP Convenor Nahid Islam said the charter symbolizes both policy reform and moral obligation to those who sacrificed during the July Movement. In a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador, he emphasized electoral reform, judicial independence, and inclusive participation. The NCP also demands a neutral Election Commission and phased elections to ensure transparency and accountability across all levels of governance.

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has embarked on a sea journey to Gaza aboard the aid ship Madeline, part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition. The vessel carries essential supplies for civilians amid a humanitarian crisis worsened by Israel’s ongoing blockade and military assault. Israel has warned it will stop the ship. Greta is joined by 12 peace activists, including actor Liam Cunningham. The mission is a non-violent protest against Israel’s blockade. Participants report being tracked by drones and urge international support.

The National Eidgah in Dhaka is ready to host the main Eid-ul-Azha congregation at 7:30 AM on Saturday, accommodating up to 35,000 worshippers. Mufti Mohammad Abdul Malek will lead the prayer. If the weather is unfavorable, the main prayer will shift to Baitul Mukarram Mosque at 8:00 AM. The area is equipped with top-tier drainage, security, and facilities including separate zones for women, medical services, and VIP sections. Eight temporary cattle markets have also been set up for Eid sacrifices.