The International Court of Justice has begun a five-day hearing on the humanitarian blockade preventing aid deliveries to Gaza. Though Israel has submitted written objections, it is not participating in oral arguments. Swedish lawyer Elinor Hammarskjöld stressed that international law prohibits acquisition of territory by force. Experts say Israel’s 2024 UNRWA ban violates its UN obligations.

Chief Election Commissioner Nasir Uddin announced plans to introduce limited overseas voting for expatriates in upcoming elections. He acknowledged challenges faced by other countries, including neighboring India, but affirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to at least piloting the process. Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed emphasized that excluding expatriates lowers voter turnout.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) launched coordinated raids on 36 offices of the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED), including its headquarters, to investigate allegations of graft and irregularities. This follows an earlier crackdown on 35 sub-registrar offices, where widespread bribery and misconduct were uncovered.

Dr. Ali Riaz stated that 16 years of authoritarian rule have destroyed Bangladesh’s institutions. Speaking at a forum, he emphasized the need for a national charter to guide democratic reform and build consensus. Revolutionary Workers Party Secretary Saiful Haque echoed the call for meaningful electoral reforms and a system that prevents future autocracy.

CBC reports that Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal Party has won the Canadian election, overcoming early predictions of a major loss. A surge in nationalist sentiment followed provocative statements by U.S. President Trump, who threatened Canadian sovereignty and suggested turning Canada into America’s 51st state. The resignation of Justin Trudeau helped the Liberals regain momentum.

At the opening of Police Week 2025, Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus stated that the police force had been politicized over the last 15 years. “Forced to follow unlawful orders, the police faced public backlash,” he said. He emphasized the need for police to uphold justice and civil rights. The event’s theme is “My Police, My Country, A Discrimination-Free Bangladesh.”

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has called for urgent de-escalation between India and Pakistan before the situation worsens. This follows a deadly attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam that left 25 Indians and one Nepali dead. Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif warned of a potential military assault, noting increased Indian threats and military preparedness in response.

At least 51 Palestinians were killed in a single day by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza. The death toll since the escalation began has reached 53,300, with over 116,000 injured—56% of them women and children. Over 2,000 Palestinians have died since the ceasefire ended, with more than 5,000 injured.

Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen visited mango orchards in Nachole, Chapainawabganj, and expressed keen interest in importing Bangladesh’s premium mangoes. Impressed by the agricultural practices, he stated China aims to import up to 120,000 metric tons of mangoes this year, praising the fruit’s taste and quality.

As Police Week 2025 kicks off, internal frustration brews over the selection of 62 medal recipients for the Bangladesh Police Medal and the President Police Medal. Officers who were absent during the August 6-7 mass protests—including one who allegedly fled from Rajarbagh—are reportedly among the awardees. Meanwhile, those injured while protecting state assets and civilians were excluded, sparking discontent within the force.

Umama Fatema, spokesperson of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, clarified that she has no affiliation with the newly formed political party NCP. In a public statement, she urged people not to involve her in discussions or proposals related to the party, even though many of her acquaintances are associated with it. “This will save both our time,” she added.

The Gano Adhikar Parishad has proposed reducing the minimum age for parliamentary candidates to 23 and shortening the term of parliament to four years. They are also calling for a national referendum on constitutional amendments. Leader Nurul Haque highlighted additional proposals, including extending maternity leave for women and halving their work hours for up to two years. The party suggests members of parliament be allowed to vote freely on all issues except constitutional amendments, budget bills, and confidence motions.

As part of the ongoing protest movement, the Technical Students’ Movement has declared an indefinite shutdown of all polytechnic institutes across the country starting Tuesday. The strike will continue until their six-point demand is met. In recent days, students submitted petitions to the offices of the Institution of Diploma Engineers in every district, following widespread protest marches and rallies.

In a public notice, Jagannath University has requested detailed reports—including names, accusations, and supporting evidence—against any students, faculty, or staff allegedly involved in illegal and violent activities during the July 2024 mass uprising. The administration has asked for sealed submissions within seven working days, assuring complete confidentiality for whistleblowers.

Responding to Bilawal Bhutto’s comments that “either our water will flow through the Indus or their blood,” Asaduddin Owaisi called the remarks “childish” and inappropriate. He reminded Bilawal of the tragedies faced by his grandfather and mother, urging him to act responsibly. Owaisi warned that no nation would remain silent if innocent civilians are harmed under the guise of such rhetoric.