The United States has approved Lenacapavir, marketed as Sunlenca or Yeztugo, a groundbreaking new drug that offers near-complete protection (99.99%) against HIV with just two injections per year. Developed by Gilead Sciences, the drug has been hailed as a major milestone in the fight against HIV. To ensure wider access, Gilead has signed royalty-free licensing agreements with six generic manufacturers, enabling affordable global distribution. Lenacapavir has proven nearly 100% effective in preventing HIV infections, a virus that still affects approximately 1.3 million people annually. In recognition of its impact, the scientific journal Science named it the "Breakthrough of the Year" in 2024.

Jonayed Saki, Chief Coordinator of the Ganosamhati Andolon, has accused the ruling Awami League of attempting to install a fascist regime in Bangladesh through the 15th constitutional amendment. Speaking at a public event, Saki said, “If we truly want to honor the martyrs who gave their lives, we must build a new political, economic, and cultural framework that reflects the spirit of people’s uprisings.” He criticized the current system, saying, “We cannot build a new political structure while maintaining an economy driven by corruption, plunder, and monopolization—and a culture of division.” Saki emphasized the need for a political party that genuinely represents the masses and protects their interests. “The blood spilled in historic uprisings points the way to a new journey for a people’s Bangladesh,” he said, also criticizing the government for failing to take responsibility for the families of those killed or injured in protests.

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) President Asaduddin Owaisi has strongly criticized the detention of Bengali-speaking Muslims, calling it "illegal." He alleged that the central government is engaging in a systematic campaign to oppress minorities and marginalized communities. Owaisi stated, "This government is strong against the weak and weak against the strong. Most of those detained are Indian citizens—construction workers, sanitation workers—poor people who cannot afford to fight back legally. The administration is exploiting their vulnerability." He further added, “Arresting someone merely for speaking Bengali is unacceptable and illegal. Language-based arrests have no place in a democratic society.” Owaisi also condemned the practice of deporting Indian Bengali Muslims under the guise of repatriating illegal Bangladeshi migrants, stating, “Sending thousands of Indian citizens away based on isolated incidents is not just unlawful—it’s inhumane.”

The United Arab Emirates and Jordan have conducted food airdrops over Gaza, delivering 25 tons of aid between Saturday and Sunday. Footage shows parachutes carrying supplies over Khan Younis. While the origin of all the aid items hasn't been fully verified, reports suggest that Israel continues using food as a weapon in its siege on Gaza, further worsening the humanitarian crisis.

Al-Azhar University, under the direction of Grand Imam Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, has sent its 11th humanitarian convoy to Gaza. The aid includes thousands of tons of food, medicine, baby formula, blankets, and 1,000 fully equipped tents. Dr. Al-Tayeb, also Director of Baitul Zakat and Sadaqah, issued a global call: “Strive with your wealth to support Palestine.” Those wishing to contribute can do so through Al-Azhar’s official charity, which ensures aid reaches Gaza directly.

KUET Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Maksud Helali has announced that academic classes will resume on Tuesday after a five-month hiatus. The assurance came during a discussion on Sunday evening with department VPs and CRs. "I urge students to be patient and trust us. Permanent solutions can be achieved through dialogue," the VC said. KUET Teachers’ Association President Professor Dr. Shahidul Islam stated that decisions will be finalized based on the outcome of a scheduled meeting with the VC. Reports confirm that such a meeting has already taken place.

BNP leader Aminul Haque has warned against extortion being carried out under the BNP name, allegedly by groups formerly affiliated with the Awami League. Speaking to business owners, he urged them not to pay any extortion money and promised strict action against imposters. Haque blamed the government's mismanagement and corruption for the country’s economic collapse. “If we come to power, reviving the economy will be a top priority,” he said. He also promised permanent marketplaces for small businesses if BNP is elected, and reiterated the party's commitment to building a humane and inclusive Bangladesh.

Sahil Farabi Ayan (14), a student injured in the recent military aircraft crash, has passed away while undergoing treatment at the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery. The incident occurred around 1:45 AM on Sunday. Ayan, a seventh-grade English medium student, had suffered 40% burns and was in the ICU. According to Dr. Shawon Bin Rahman, this brings the total death toll from the incident at the burn unit to 18, with one additional death reported at Dhaka Medical College Hospital.

BNP leader Major (Retd.) Hafizuddin Ahmed has dismissed the Nationalist Citizen Party (NCP) as too young to comment on BNP's senior leadership. “They are the age of our sons and grandsons,” he said, adding that BNP holds no grudge against any political group. “We have fought for democracy, a cause for which Shaheed Abu Sayeed sacrificed his life.” Hafiz criticized smaller parties for delivering "big speeches" without real public support and accused some of quickly succumbing to corruption. He emphasized that Chief Advisor is in favor of holding elections, though some advisors are allegedly misleading him. Urging party unity, Hafiz affirmed, “A united BNP will form the next government.”

Home Affairs Advisor Jahangir Alam stated that although judicial proceedings over the past year have not progressed as much as hoped, there has been measurable advancement. Speaking at the inauguration of the ‘36 July Martyrs Memorial’ in Lichutola, Munshiganj, he noted that charge sheets have been submitted in several cases, including those in Chattogram. However, the unusually high number of accused has delayed investigations. Advisor Adilur Rahman Khan added that Ganabhaban is being transformed into a museum to preserve over 15 years of history. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to preserve the graves of national martyrs and shared concerns over irregularities in the '36 July Residential Flat Project,' which has been sent back for review.

Private school teachers and staff in Bangladesh will see a salary hike of up to BDT 7,000. According to the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE), the lowest-tier staff such as cleaners and ayas will receive an increase of up to BDT 500. Junior teachers will see an increase ranging from BDT 800 to BDT 1,000, while assistant teachers currently earning around BDT 12,500 will receive raises of BDT 1,200 to BDT 1,500. Senior assistant teachers could see an increase of BDT 2,000 to BDT 4,000, and in some cases up to BDT 5,000. Headteachers will receive a raise of around BDT 7,000. The decision will significantly increase government expenditure.

Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus has expressed heartfelt gratitude to international medical teams for providing specialized care to victims of the recent aircraft accident. On Sunday, a team of 21 doctors and nurses from Singapore, China, and India met with Dr. Yunus. "They have come not just with skill, but with compassion," he said. "Their presence underscores the importance of global humanitarian solidarity." The team is working closely with local doctors, particularly in trauma care for injured children. Dr. Yunus pledged full government support for the mission and requested their continued involvement virtually for long-term care. Health Advisor added, “The nation will never forget your compassion during this difficult time.”

Saudi Arabia will provide BDT 2.44 billion (approximately USD 208 million) for the construction of eight iconic mosques in Bangladesh under a royal grant. The announcement was made by Saudi Ambassador Dr. Abdullah Jafar H. Bin Biya during a meeting with Religious Affairs Advisor Dr. A.F.M. Khalid Hossain at the Secretariat on Saturday. The advisor said construction would begin as soon as possible. He also acknowledged the contributions of nearly 3.2 million Bangladeshi expatriates in Saudi Arabia through remittances and noted their role in achieving Saudi Vision 2030. Additionally, the ambassador assured improvements in facilities during Hajj, including more washrooms in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, uninterrupted water and power supply, and larger bedding arrangements in Mina tents.

Nahid Islam, convener of the Nationalist Citizen Party (NCP), has sharply criticized the Awami League and addressed a stern warning to India. Speaking in Sherpur, he stated, “If you push anyone into Bangladesh, make it Sheikh Hasina and the Awami terrorists.” He further added that government officials who support the Awami League and give shelter to political violence must also face justice. At the event, Sarjis Alam said, “We will no longer tolerate anyone unconditionally in Bangladesh. If someone does 95 things right and 5 wrong, we will still hold them accountable.” Samantha Sharmin demanded transparency about the Milestone incident, questioning the involvement of corporate entities or private forces.

In a move approved by the President, the Election Commission Secretariat has transferred 71 election officials, most of whom are serving as Upazila or Thana-level election officers. According to the official notification, the transferred officers must be released from their current posts by August 3. If not released by then, they will be considered officially released as of August 4. Among the changes, the Assistant Director of the Election Training Institute in Dhaka has been appointed as Assistant Secretary at the Election Commission Secretariat. Additionally, the Election Officer of Cumilla Adarsha Sadar Upazila has been appointed as the new Assistant Director of the Election Training Institute in Dhaka.