A meeting of seven Qawmi-oriented Islamic parties, led by Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh, was held on Thursday at Jameya Azizul Ulum Babunagar Madrasa in Fatikchhari, Chattogram. The session was convened by Hefazat’s Amir Allama Shah Muhibullah Babunagari and attended by senior leaders from Hefazat and other Islamic organizations, including Jamiat Ulama-e-Islam, Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis, Nezame Islam Party, Islami Oikya Jote, Khelafat Andolon, and Islami Andolon.

During the meeting, participating leaders received a message emphasizing the need for unity among the seven parties and agreed to move forward together. The discussion also addressed the severe flooding that has affected families in several districts, including Satkania, Banshkhali, Chakaria, and Habiganj. Many people have lost homes and essential supplies, prompting calls for urgent rehabilitation and humanitarian support.

Allama Babunagari urged Hefazat’s district and upazila branches to distribute relief materials and assist flood victims. The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to stand by affected communities and strengthen cooperation among Islamic groups.

State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraq Hossain visited the grave of slain activist Mohammad Wasim Akram in Mehernama Murapara, Pekua, Cox’s Bazar, on Thursday morning. After paying respects around 9:30 a.m., he spoke to the media, criticizing the lack of justice in the two years since Wasim’s killing and describing it as a weakness of the judicial system. He also accused Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of using political manipulation to sustain her rule, asserting that the people of Bangladesh would resist such tactics.

Central Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal General Secretary Nasir Uddin and Wasim’s father Shafiul Alam were present during the visit. Nasir Uddin said that justice for the July–August martyrs would only be achieved if the “killer Hasina” was brought back to face trial. Shafiul Alam expressed frustration that there had been no progress in the case and demanded punishment for those who ordered the killing.

Wasim Akram, then a student at Chittagong College, was killed on 16 July 2024 in Muradpur, Chittagong, during a protest when police, Chhatra League, and Jubo League members attacked demonstrators.

Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir president Nurul Islam has demanded the immediate execution of the verdict in the July massacre case, which he said occurred under the rule of the Awami League government. Speaking on Thursday morning at the Rayerbazar Martyred Intellectuals’ Graveyard in Dhaka, he stated that the organization wants not only a symbolic verdict but its full implementation. The visit was part of a month-long program marking the second anniversary of the July uprising.

Nurul Islam alleged that the massacre began on 16 July 2024 with the killing of Abu Sayeed and that more than 1,400 people were killed, with over 800 bodies identified so far. He criticized the current judicial process, claiming that only ornamental verdicts had been issued against fugitives while no substantial rulings were seen for those arrested. He demanded swift justice for those responsible, including those who allegedly ordered and assisted in the killings.

The event concluded with prayers for the martyrs, attended by Shibir’s secretary general Sibgatullah and other central and branch leaders.

Acclaimed Hollywood filmmaker Christopher Nolan’s new film 'The Odyssey' is set for a global release on July 17, 2026. Bangladeshi audiences will be able to watch it the same day at Star Cineplex, marking a simultaneous premiere with the rest of the world. The film has already generated significant discussion worldwide for its scale and subject matter.

' The Odyssey' is based on the ancient Greek epic by poet Homer, depicting the perilous homeward journey of the hero Odysseus after the Trojan War. The story follows his decade-long struggle to return home after being separated from his companions by fate. The film features Matt Damon as Odysseus, Tom Holland as his son Telemachus, and Anne Hathaway as his wife Penelope, alongside Robert Pattinson, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, Mia Goth, Benny Safdie, and Jon Bernthal.

The simultaneous release in Bangladesh highlights the country’s growing inclusion in global film distribution networks, offering local audiences early access to major Hollywood releases.

A Dhaka court has granted bail to Salman F Rahman, vice chairman of Beximco Group and former adviser on industry and investment to ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in a cheque dishonor case. The bail was approved on a bond of 1,000 taka by Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Joshita Islam’s court on Thursday, July 16, 2026. Defense lawyer Mohammad Shamsuddoha Suman confirmed the order, noting that an arrest warrant had been issued against Rahman on May 7 after the case was filed.

The case was lodged on January 9 by Ujjal Mondal on behalf of the Export Import Bank of Bangladesh. Other accused include Ahmed Sayeon Fazlur Rahman, Mahfuzur Rahman, Imran Mondal, Md Lutfor Rahman, Mashkura Khanam, Md Saifur Rahman, Abu Nayeem Mohammad Selehin, Md Mostafizur Rahman Tanvir, and A S F Rahman. According to the complaint, a cheque worth 1.12 billion taka was issued on behalf of Beximco LPG Unit-1 Limited but was returned by the bank on November 19, 2025, due to insufficient funds.

After a legal notice was sent on November 26 demanding payment within 30 days, the accused failed to settle the amount, leading to the filing of the case.

Pakistan has called on Iran and the United States to immediately stop retaliatory military strikes and return to dialogue. At a regular briefing in Islamabad, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi said the ongoing conflict over the past week has raised serious concerns, urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid actions that could further harm peace and stability. He emphasized that all disputes are ultimately resolved through negotiations and confirmed that Pakistan continues to engage with key stakeholders to reduce tensions.

The appeal comes amid escalating hostilities around the Strait of Hormuz, where both nations have exchanged missile attacks. Andrabi noted that the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, signed by the presidents of Iran and the United States in June, remains a viable framework for peace, mutual respect, and shared prosperity, though its implementation faces challenges. Pakistan and Qatar previously facilitated talks between U.S. and Iranian negotiators in Switzerland.

Pakistan expressed hope for a swift normalization of the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and stressed the importance of ensuring safe and unrestricted maritime navigation.

Opposition leader and Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiquur Rahman has alleged that efforts are underway to erase the legacy of the 'Chobbish' movement, comparing it to past attempts to undermine national struggles. Speaking on Thursday at the Diploma Engineers Institution auditorium in Dhaka during a discussion and prayer meeting marking July Martyrs’ Day, he swore that he would give his life but would not allow 'Chobbish' to be lost.

Rahman said the nation has repeatedly fought and sacrificed for victory, citing historical milestones such as 1947, 1952, 1971, 1990, and 'Chobbish' as proud chapters. He criticized attempts to diminish the significance of the 'Chobbish' movement, asserting that it gave rise to the current parliament and opposition leadership. He also condemned the formation of a constitutional amendment committee, calling it an effort to obscure the July referendum and the people’s verdict.

Rahman reaffirmed Jamaat-e-Islami’s commitment to justice, equality, and independence in foreign policy, emphasizing that the party seeks honest relations with neighboring India but rejects external dictates. He demanded state recognition for July martyrs and injured fighters through naming roads and installations after them.

Analysts have warned that U.S. President Donald Trump may be heading toward another prolonged conflict with Iran, despite his earlier pledge to avoid new wars. The report describes how U.S. and Israeli strikes have failed to achieve Trump’s stated goals of regime change or halting Iran’s nuclear program. Instead, the fighting has disrupted the strategic Strait of Hormuz, and a ceasefire and diplomatic memorandum have both collapsed within a month.

Experts cited in the report, including Ali Vaez, Lawrence D. Freedman, Vali Nasr, Aaron David Miller, and Suzanne Maloney, argue that both sides view temporary agreements as tactical pauses rather than steps toward peace. They warn that without a clear political or diplomatic plan, the conflict could become another “forever war” similar to those in Iraq and Afghanistan. The U.S. reliance on air and naval power, without ground deployment, is seen as a strategic limitation.

The analysis concludes that the Strait of Hormuz may no longer return to prewar conditions, and the U.S. might need to maintain a larger military presence in the Middle East to secure maritime routes, while Iran remains determined to sustain pressure.

The Rajshahi University Press Club formally welcomed new students of the 2025–26 academic session at its office on Thursday at 11 a.m. The event was presided over by club president Ashikul Islam and attended by senior university officials and former club leaders. Speakers included the club’s chief adviser Professor Dr. Fazluk Haque, Public Relations Office Administrator Professor S. M. Kamruzzaman, Acting Registrar Iftikharul Alam Masud, and Mass Communication and Journalism Department Chair Professor Dr. Mozammel Hossain Bokul.

During the ceremony, Professor Kamruzzaman emphasized the responsibility of journalists toward the state and the importance of developing practical skills from the beginning of their careers. Professor Haque encouraged students interested in journalism to join the Press Club to enhance their co-curricular engagement. Professor Bokul highlighted the need for journalists to understand society and history, urging students to study pioneering figures in Bangladeshi journalism.

In his closing remarks, President Ashikul Islam described campus journalism as a voluntary pursuit that builds unique skills and unity among students, expressing hope that newcomers with genuine interest would contribute meaningfully to the field.

Bangladesh Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed stated that Sheikh Hasina, currently in India as a convicted fugitive, will be arrested and her court verdict executed if she returns to the country. He made the remarks on Thursday while speaking to journalists at the Secretariat. The minister added that any opportunity for appeal would be determined by the court, which would decide on the process and hearing.

Ahmed explained that Bangladesh has already communicated with the Indian government under the existing extradition agreement during the interim government period, seeking Hasina’s return. He said the government continues to press for her extradition to face justice. The minister emphasized that the legal process will guide any further steps, including potential appeals.

He also noted that the government’s efforts to bring her back are based on lawful procedures and existing bilateral agreements, reiterating that the judiciary will determine subsequent legal actions.

A Dhaka court has completed the testimonies of 15 out of 28 witnesses in the illegal wealth case against former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed. On Thursday, July 16, 2026, Assistant Director (Technical) of BTMC Textile Directorate Md. Faisal Kabir testified before the court of Special Judge Abdullah Al Mamun. As the accused remains absconding, cross-examination could not take place. The court set August 17 as the next hearing date, confirmed Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) lawyer Mir Ahmed Ali Salam.

Earlier, on March 8, the court accepted the charge sheet and issued an arrest warrant against Benazir Ahmed. On May 3, the same court framed charges and ordered the trial to begin. The ACC filed the case on December 15, 2024, through Deputy Director Hafizul Islam, who later submitted the charge sheet on November 30, 2025, alleging illicit enrichment, concealment of assets, and money laundering.

According to the charge sheet, Benazir declared assets worth about Tk 12.2 crore, but investigators found evidence of assets exceeding Tk 15.6 crore, indicating undisclosed wealth of Tk 11 crore. The court proceedings will continue next month.

The annual Rath Yatra festival was celebrated in Nagarkanda, Faridpur, following the Sanatan religious calendar. The event began on the auspicious day of Shukla Dwitiya in the month of Ashar, organized by the local Rath Yatra Celebration Committee. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam MP inaugurated the festival as the chief guest. The procession started from the Gangjogdia Sarbojonin Kali Temple in front of Nagarkanda Health Complex and concluded at the Choumukha Paschimpara Durga Temple after parading through major roads of the upazila.

Hindu devotees from various parts of the upazila participated in the event, expressing joy at the minister’s presence. Special guests included Faridpur Superintendent of Police Shahriar Mohammad Miyaji and Nagarkanda Upazila Nirbahi Officer Rezwana Afrin, among others. The celebration featured traditional rituals and community gatherings reflecting the spiritual significance of the festival.

According to Hindu belief, pulling the chariot’s rope during Rath Yatra cleanses sins and brings spiritual merit equivalent to performing a hundred yajnas. Organizers expressed hope that such traditions will continue to inspire future generations.

Major Mozzafar Hossain (retired), one of the key planners in the assassination of former President Ziaur Rahman, has been arrested after remaining a fugitive for 45 years. Dhaka Metropolitan Detective Police detained him late Wednesday night in the Banani DOHS area of the capital. Following legal procedures, he has been handed over to the Bangladesh Army for completion of court-martial proceedings.

According to historical and case records, Ziaur Rahman was killed on May 30, 1981, in Chittagong Circuit House by a group of renegade army officers. Major Mozzafar Hossain and Captain Mosleh Uddin were among those directly involved. Mozzafar reportedly identified the president and fired the fatal shots before informing then GOC Major General Abul Manzoor of the killing. After the incident, several officers were arrested, but Mozzafar and another officer managed to escape.

Investigators said Mozzafar had lived in India between 1997 and 1998, using aliases to move across borders. His capture marks a major development in one of Bangladesh’s most discussed political murder cases, reopening a long-unresolved chapter of national history.

Tanzila Akter Tanu, a participant in the July Revolution, recounted her experience of being shot six times while protesting against injustice and authoritarianism. She described standing unarmed with other female students at Jatrabari’s Kutubkhali on August 4, when police opened fire. Despite severe injuries, she was rescued by an unknown person and later treated in hospital. Her story, shared with journalist Amanur Rahman, highlights the courage and sacrifice of women during the uprising.

Tanu said her main inspiration came from witnessing Abu Sayeed’s defiant stance in Rangpur on July 16, which symbolized resistance and erased her fear. She also recalled the deaths of fellow protesters Mir Mugdho, Farhan Faiyaz, and Yamin as further motivation. The long recovery period left her financially and emotionally strained, but she continues to view the revolution as a triumph over fear.

Reflecting on the movement’s outcomes, Tanu believes the revolution freed people from long-standing fear and repression. She urged the state to ensure rehabilitation and medical care for victims’ families and called on the new generation to build an equitable, corruption-free Bangladesh.

Divorce rates in Bangladesh are rising at an alarming pace, according to recent data from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS). The agency’s Sample Vital Statistics report shows that the divorce rate increased from 0.7 per thousand people in 2021 to 1.4 in 2022, before slightly declining to 1.1 in 2023. The trend remains concerning, with more than 50,000 divorce applications filed in Dhaka in recent years. Many of these applications were submitted by women, reflecting growing economic independence and awareness.

Experts cited multiple factors behind the surge, including economic pressure, family instability, migration, and the influence of social media. They noted that changing family structures, reduced tolerance, and communication gaps are weakening marital relationships. Social media often fosters new attachments while eroding existing ones. Psychologists and sociologists emphasized that while some divorces are necessary due to abuse or violence, impulsive separations can harm children and society.

Researchers and educators urged greater focus on premarital and postmarital counseling, communication, and mutual respect. They highlighted the need to strengthen family values, promote emotional well-being, and raise awareness about responsible social media use to protect future generations.