Several Israeli soldiers from the elite Golani Brigade were killed or wounded in a powerful explosion in Rafah while attempting to demolish a building, according to Al Jazeera. The Israeli military has imposed a media blackout on the incident. Helicopters later evacuated the casualties, but reports suggest some soldiers may still be trapped under rubble. Intense fighting continues, particularly in Rafah’s Al-Jeneina area, where Hamas claims fierce face-to-face combat is underway. In the past 24 hours, over 100 Palestinians have been killed amid escalating violence.

Fifty-six leaders of the Kishoreganj district unit of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have resigned, citing widespread corruption and authoritarian behavior by the top leadership. Joint convener Ali Raihan Johan stated that allegations emerged immediately after the committee was formed. Several leaders reportedly misused their positions, and those who raised concerns were expelled. On April 26, complaints were submitted against District Member Secretary Faisal Prince for misappropriating funds under the pretext of tree-planting campaigns. No action was taken, and earlier scandals involving seed warehouse misuse and market lease corruption were also ignored, with whistleblowers instead facing disciplinary measures.

India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri declined to confirm or deny Pakistan’s claims of downing five Indian fighter jets and killing 50 Indian soldiers in recent cross-border clashes. When asked, Misri said the government would release official information at an appropriate time. He also refused to respond to claims made by Pakistani Information Minister Ataullah Tarar and commented only briefly on Pakistan’s reported loss of 100 lives, urging the media to wait as only 36 hours had passed since the airstrikes.

The government's media adviser has stated that the administration encourages healthy competition among newspapers. The aim is to foster a vibrant, responsible, and competitive press that serves public interest and upholds journalistic integrity.

Ganosamhati Andolon condemned India’s military operation “Sindoor” in Pakistan, calling it a violation of sovereignty. They urged the Bangladesh government to call for diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict and avoid further escalation.

Following rumors of Dr. Selina Hayat Ivy’s arrest, hundreds of Awami League activists have surrounded the home of the former Narayanganj mayor. Loudspeaker announcements from nearby mosques urged people to take to the streets. The latest reports indicate that police are currently confined inside Ivy’s residence.

Advocate Abdul Bari Bhuiyan, General Secretary of BNP’s Fatullah unit, has filed a treason case against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and ten others—including three former Chief Election Commissioners—accusing them of fraud, conspiracy, and voterless elections in the last three national polls. The court has accepted the plea and ordered police to submit an investigation report.

Islamic Chhatra Shibir, Inquilab Manch, July Unity, and others have expressed solidarity with the protest in front of the Chief Adviser’s residence, demanding a ban on the Awami League. Shibir leaders vowed not to let the July movement falter. “Our goal is the final revolution,” declared their central president.

At a high-level meeting of the National Consensus Commission, Chief Adviser and Commission Chair Professor Muhammad Yunus praised political parties for their positive stance on reforms. The meeting reviewed overall progress and urged swift finalization of the next phase of dialogue with political stakeholders.

Sarjis Alam criticized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming his speeches sometimes reflect “extreme communal tones.” He urged both India and Pakistan to avoid war and religious incitement. “India made the first strike,” he added, emphasizing that any such accusations must be substantiated with evidence in international courts and forums.

Multiple drone attacks have been reported in Jammu’s Akhnoor, Samba, and Kathua areas. Pakistani drones reportedly used loitering munitions—drones equipped with warheads that target specific locations. Indian air defense responded with counterfire. Witnesses near Jammu airport counted at least 16 fallen objects. Sirens blared as markets closed and the city plunged into a blackout.

In response to the announcement of banning Jubo League and Swechchhasebak League, NCP Convenor Nahid Islam criticized the move as a distraction. “This charade is unacceptable. The Awami League itself must be declared a terrorist and fascist organization and banned. The ICT law must be amended to allow prosecution of political parties,” he demanded.

Adviser Asif Mahmud announced that the Awami League’s affiliate groups Jubo League and Swechchhasebak League are on the verge of being banned. “All formalities have been completed,” he stated. He reiterated that the July uprising is committed to politically erasing the Awami League and its affiliates.

On the second day of the conclave, thick white smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney signaled the election of a new Pope. Cardinal Robert Prevost from the United States has been chosen and will be known as Pope Leo XIV. Thousands of pilgrims erupted in applause at St. Peter’s Square as the chapel bells rang, officially ending the election process. Former U.S. President Trump called the historic election of an American pope a "great honor" for the nation.

In response to Hasnat Abdullah’s call, student groups and civilians broke through police barricades and began a sit-in protest at the Chief Adviser’s residence, Jamuna, demanding a ban on the Awami League. Protesters are urging for justice and political prohibition of what they call a fascist party.