Agence France-Presse (AFP) has announced the evacuation of its staff from Gaza following warnings of starvation risks caused by ongoing Israeli airstrikes. The agency expressed deep concern over deteriorating conditions and requested Israeli authorities to allow immediate evacuation of their employees and families. Since March, Israel has blocked humanitarian aid into Gaza, leading to severe malnutrition and at least 101 starvation-related deaths, including 80 children. AFP plans to extend evacuation efforts to freelance contributors amid this humanitarian crisis.

The Trump administration has announced the US will withdraw funding and participation from UNESCO starting December 2026, citing concerns over alleged anti-Israel bias. The Biden administration had rejoined UNESCO in 2023 after a five-year US absence. France, where UNESCO’s headquarters is located, rejected the US accusations and pledged support for the organization’s role in promoting education, tolerance, and cultural preservation. UNESCO’s Director-General Audrey Azoulay called the US decision regrettable but affirmed continued operations despite reduced funding.

Dhaka, Bangladesh — The National Citizen Party (NCP) has proposed constitutional amendments to formalize the appointment processes for all constitutional and statutory bodies—similar to that of the Election Commission. At a policy forum, NCP Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain suggested forming a five-member selection committee to nominate commissioners, with the President playing a ceremonial role and required to appoint officials based on the committee’s recommendations. The party expressed consensus on enacting new legislation to ensure accountability but noted differences regarding appointments to bodies such as the Public Service Commission, the Auditor General’s Office, the Anti-Corruption Commission, and the Ombudsman. The NCP warned that excluding these appointment processes from the constitution leaves room for future legal manipulation, potentially undermining institutional reform. They emphasized the need for non-partisan appointments in the national interest.

Beanibazar, Bangladesh — Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has stated that his party does not support any delay in the upcoming national election, emphasizing that a fair and effective electoral process is essential to maintain the country's orderly governance. Speaking at a manpower and intellectuals’ gathering in Beanibazar, Dr. Rahman called for a transparent and neutral national election to be held in early 2026, with a level playing field for all parties. He reiterated Jamaat’s vision to build a humane and justice-based Bangladesh, pledging to transform the youth into a skilled national workforce if the party comes to power. He also urged the public to remain vigilant against corruption and injustice, while highlighting the resilience of Jamaat leaders who have stayed in the country despite political persecution.

Comilla, Bangladesh — Hasnat Abdullah, Chief Organizer for the Southern Region of the National Citizen Party (NCP), has warned that the country could face serious danger if the Awami League regains power. Emphasizing the need for long-term political resistance, he called for unity among all anti-authoritarian political forces. Speaking at a public meeting, Abdullah expressed his vision of establishing Comilla as a strategic stronghold—referring to it as the NCP’s future “cantonment.” He also demanded an impartial investigation into the recent Milestone Airlines crash and called for greater accountability. Other NCP leaders at the event stressed the importance of unity against fascism, denounced corruption and extortion, and reiterated the demand to declare Comilla as a new administrative division.

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed has stated that merely mentioning the Election Commission’s independence in the Constitution is not enough. He emphasized the need for a transparent and accountable appointment process. Speaking during a National Consensus Commission dialogue, he confirmed that a five-member selection committee has been proposed—comprising the Speaker, Deputy Speaker from the opposition, the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and a judge nominated by the Chief Justice. The committee will lead the selection process, and a parliamentary law will establish accountability standards and a code of conduct for EC members. Ahmed reiterated BNP’s demand for elections under a neutral government and welcomed unity among opposition parties.

The Bangladesh Navy has rescued 18 fishermen who were stranded for four days after their trawler Habiba suffered engine failure in the deep sea near Maheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar. The naval ship Shahid Farid conducted the rescue on Tuesday, providing the fishermen with food, water, and medical assistance. The crew expressed gratitude to the Navy. The trawler has since been escorted safely to Kutubdia.

During a meeting with representatives from 13 political parties and alliances at the state guesthouse, Interim Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus warned of a resurgence of anti-democratic conspiracies less than a year after the July uprising. He stressed the need for greater unity among political parties to resist fascism. Party leaders in attendance called for stronger law enforcement measures and demanded an all-party dialogue before the next election. They also expressed support for reforms, justice, and an inclusive electoral process.

IDEF 2025, the 17th International Defence Industry Fair, has begun in Istanbul with over 900 Turkish and 400 international defense companies from 44 countries. Major firms like BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin, and Airbus are showcasing advanced land, air, and naval technologies. National pavilions from countries such as China, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan are on display. The six-day event spans multiple venues and features ministers, military chiefs, and commanders from 103 countries. It is organized by KFA Fairs with support from Turkish defense authorities.

The Bangladesh Air Force has paid tribute to Maherin Chowdhury, the courageous teacher who lost her life while saving students during the Uttara plane crash. On July 23, an Air Force delegation laid floral wreaths at her grave in Jaldi, Nilphamari. They prayed for her departed soul and offered condolences to her family. Maherin saved at least 20 students before sustaining fatal injuries in the incident.

Hezbollah Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem has strongly condemned U.S. and Israeli actions in Gaza, stating they have exceeded all humanitarian and moral standards. He warned that the U.S. will eventually be forced to withdraw its support due to overwhelming Palestinian resistance. Qassem criticized the silence of the international community and urged Arab and Islamic nations to close Israeli embassies, cut trade ties, and provide humanitarian aid to Gaza. He expressed confidence that Israel’s aggression will ultimately lead to its downfall by divine will.

Senior officials from Iran, Russia, and China met in Tehran to boost cooperation against Western dominance, sanctions, and threats of the JCPOA snapback mechanism. They emphasized diplomatic coordination and mutual support, criticizing Western unilateralism. Iran warned that any new UN sanctions would be illegitimate and proposed practical steps for regional stability. The trilateral talks aim to create a broader strategic framework, with follow-up discussions planned with the European Troika. All three nations committed to deeper consultation in the coming months.

A global study involving nearly 2,900 employees across six countries found that a four-day workweek improved mental and physical health, reduced burnout, and increased job satisfaction—all without reducing pay. Participants reported stronger focus and higher productivity compared to those with a five-day schedule. The research, published in Nature Human Behaviour, highlights the need for flexible, employee-centered work models. Experts say smart work processes, not just fewer hours, are key to long-term success and well-being in the modern workplace.

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan met with Interim Government’s Chief Advisor, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, on Wednesday afternoon at the state guesthouse Jamuna. The courtesy call was confirmed by the press wing of the Chief Advisor.

A case has been filed against 1,200 individuals for vandalism and attempted murder at the Secretariat. According to the complaint, on July 22, during a student-led "March to Education Ministry" protest following the Milestone School plane crash, demonstrators broke through police barricades, damaged the Secretariat gate, and attacked security personnel. The charges include destruction of public property and attempted murder. A court has ordered an investigation report by August 28.