During the second day of the Eid-ul-Azha holiday, a large number of homebound travelers crossed the Padma Bridge via the Dhaka-Mawa Expressway without facing traffic congestion or major delays. In the past 24 hours, 44,008 vehicles used the bridge, generating Tk 48 million in toll revenue, according to information released on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

To ensure safe and smooth travel for passengers heading to southern Bangladesh, six monitoring teams were deployed along the route. Four fixed checkpoints and two mobile teams were active around the clock to maintain order and safety. Toll collection continued uninterrupted at eight booths, while two additional lanes were designated specifically for motorcycles to facilitate faster crossings.

The efficient traffic management and continuous toll operations contributed to a congestion-free experience for travelers during one of the busiest holiday periods of the year.

Iranian President Mahmoud Pezeshkian has ordered the restoration of internet services across the country, according to Iran’s semi-official Fars News Agency on Monday. The report did not specify when the connections would be fully restored. Internet access in Iran has been largely cut off for about 90 days following the outbreak of war involving the United States and Israel.

The communications ministry’s public relations chief was cited in the report, which linked the shutdown to a series of domestic and international crises. Iran began restricting internet services in late December 2025 after widespread anti-government protests erupted over rising inflation, currency depreciation, and a deepening economic crisis. By late February, as the conflict with the United States and Israel escalated into military attacks, the government almost completely severed internet connectivity.

The report did not clarify the timeline or conditions for the full restoration of internet access, leaving uncertainty about how quickly normal communication will resume.

A new political group called the Cockroach Janata Party has emerged in India, gaining a large following within just four days. The party’s rise through social media memes, reels, and humor-laced political commentary has drawn widespread attention. Observers note that its rapid popularity reflects growing frustration among young people who feel alienated from traditional politics and institutions.

The article argues that this phenomenon stems from deeper social fragmentation and the erosion of collective public life. Once rooted in unions, campuses, and community clubs, politics has become detached from everyday social bonds. Digital platforms now provide a temporary sense of belonging, uniting individuals through shared anger or symbolic opposition rather than enduring ideals. Comparisons with Bangladesh and Nepal suggest similar youth-driven digital movements that either institutionalized or faded over time.

The analysis concludes that such decentralized digital movements face an inherent contradiction: while they challenge centralized power, they depend on the same technological and structural systems that reinforce it. Without rebuilding trust, shared responsibility, and long-term commitment, these bursts of online unity risk remaining cycles of transient outrage rather than lasting political transformation.

India’s $1.2 trillion electronics industry faces new risks after China introduced export restrictions under State Council decrees 834 and 835. These measures, limiting shipments of key machinery and components, have alarmed Indian electronics and automobile manufacturers who fear delays in investment and production. Executives have begun discussions with Chinese suppliers to assess the impact, while the domestic industry has alerted India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

The challenge comes as India pushes to become a global manufacturing hub, with exports rising from $8.6 billion in 2015 to $470 billion in 2025. The government aims to reach $1.2 trillion by the end of 2026. However, China’s control over essential equipment and rare-earth materials exposes India’s dependence on Chinese supply chains. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said the government is developing sector-specific investment plans to reduce reliance on certain regions and will launch 50 industrial parks under a new initiative.

Industry leaders view the situation as both a warning and an opportunity. Some urge stronger domestic supplier networks and balanced policies to build resilience, while others see a turning point for India to deepen local manufacturing and technology capabilities.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Iran will not surrender to U.S. pressure or excessive demands. Speaking at a meeting with members of the country’s Chamber of Commerce on Monday, he said Iranian negotiators would secure the nation’s rights through diplomatic means. Pezeshkian emphasized that after failing on the military front, Iran’s adversaries have now shifted their focus to economic warfare.

According to the report, Pezeshkian accused the United States and Israel of launching an unprovoked war against Iran on February 28 by assassinating Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several senior military commanders. In response, Iran’s armed forces carried out retaliatory strikes over 40 days targeting U.S. and Israeli military facilities, causing significant damage. A two-week ceasefire agreement was later reached on April 8 through Pakistan’s mediation.

Pezeshkian added that despite the shift to economic confrontation, the government and private sector would overcome the current challenges through unity, coordination, and cooperation.

Iran is considering reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz 30 days after a potential peace agreement to end hostilities, according to a report by Japan’s Nikkei citing a Middle Eastern diplomatic source. The discussions between the United States and Iran reportedly include plans for mine clearance operations in the strait within the first 30 days after the agreement.

Nikkei reported that once the mines are removed, ships from all countries would be able to pass freely and safely, and Iran would stop collecting transit fees. The talks come amid renewed US airstrikes in Iran, which the US military said targeted missile bases and boats allegedly laying mines in self-defense. Iran, however, stated that although some progress has been made in the negotiations, a final agreement is not imminent.

The developments highlight ongoing tensions and cautious diplomatic engagement between Washington and Tehran, with the future of the Strait of Hormuz remaining central to regional stability and global trade routes.

Bangladesh Health Minister Sardar Md. Shakhawat Hossain has announced that the Chandina Upazila Health Complex in Cumilla will be upgraded to a 100-bed hospital. He also pledged to demolish the old, risky building and construct a modern facility, install an electricity substation to keep the oxygen plant operational, and expedite other necessary development works. The announcement came during his unplanned visit to the hospital on Monday afternoon while returning from a tour of Cumilla.

During the visit, the minister inspected various wards, sanitation facilities, and overall infrastructure, and even tasted the food served to patients. He stated that paperwork had been prepared and instructions were given to start the work promptly. The hospital, currently a 50-bed facility, has long been awaiting expansion to meet local healthcare demands.

Local residents welcomed the minister’s announcement and urged for quick implementation of the promised development. Several officials, including the local MP, divisional health director, and district civil surgeon, were present during the visit.

A strong earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale struck Chile on Monday, according to the National Seismological Center of the University of Chile. The quake occurred at 5:52 p.m. local time, with its epicenter located 12 kilometers south of Calama city. Initial reports indicated that there were no casualties or major damage following the tremor.

Chile frequently experiences seismic activity due to its position along the Pacific Ring of Fire. The ongoing collision between the Nazca and South American tectonic plates is the main cause of the country’s regular earthquakes of varying intensities. Historical data show that since 1570, Chile has experienced nearly 100 major earthquakes, about 30 of which had magnitudes of 8 or higher.

According to the national emergency and disaster risk management department, Chile faces at least one earthquake of magnitude 8 or greater every decade on average, underscoring the country’s high seismic vulnerability.

Republican hardliners have voiced sharp criticism after reports suggested the Trump administration is moving toward a deal to end the Iran war. The leaked draft memorandum indicates that the agreement would end hostilities, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, lift U.S. blockades, and allow Iran to regain access to frozen funds and resume oil sales. In return, Iran would pledge not to pursue nuclear weapons and begin talks on relinquishing enriched uranium stockpiles.

Senior Republican figures, including Senators Roger Wicker, Lindsey Graham, and Ted Cruz, condemned the move as a sign of weakness and a betrayal of Trump’s earlier demand for Iran’s unconditional surrender. Former officials such as John Bolton, Michael Flynn, and Mike Pompeo also criticized the plan, comparing it unfavorably to the Obama-era nuclear deal. Trump’s advisers have pushed back, accusing critics of undermining the administration.

Analysts cited in the report say Trump faces a dilemma as the war drags into its third month, with mounting political and economic pressure ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The president risks alienating both antiwar Republicans and foreign policy hawks within his party.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has confirmed that the Dhaka Premier League (DPL) will resume on June 2, following the Eid-ul-Azha holiday. The competition will restart from the eighth round, with table-toppers Mohammedan Sporting Club facing Legends of Rupganj, while Abahani Limited will take on Gulshan Cricket Club. The ninth round is scheduled for June 5, featuring key fixtures including Abahani against Legends of Rupganj and Mohammedan against Gazi Group Cricketers.

According to the announced schedule, matches will be held across several venues including Mirpur, BKSP, Bashundhara, and the Cricketers Academy. The much-anticipated Dhaka derby between Abahani and Mohammedan will not take place until the 11th round. The BCB’s statement provides clarity on the league’s continuation after the festival break.

The updated schedule ensures that the DPL maintains its competitive momentum, with title-contending teams preparing for crucial encounters in early June.

Lionel Messi’s injury scare has eased after Inter Miami confirmed that medical tests found no serious damage. The Argentine star was forced off during the 73rd minute of a Major League Soccer match against Philadelphia Union, which Miami won 6–4. The club’s medical team reported that Messi’s left hamstring showed signs of strain and muscle fatigue but no major injury. The announcement brought relief to Argentina’s camp as they prepare to defend their World Cup title.

Inter Miami stated that Messi’s return to play will depend on his recovery progress, without specifying a timeline. Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano also shared that tests confirmed only minor discomfort. The news comes as Argentina prepares to announce its squad before the World Cup begins on June 11, with their first match scheduled against Algeria five days later.

The update reduces immediate concerns for both Inter Miami and Argentina, though Messi’s exact recovery period remains uncertain.

Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, has called for maintaining national unity and solidarity as the country faces attacks from the United States and Israel. In a statement released on May 26, 2026, he said Iran’s military and diplomatic efforts have demonstrated resilience under external pressure.

Zolghadr emphasized that preserving unity is as vital as achieving success on the battlefield and in diplomacy. He urged Iranians to avoid any words or actions that could weaken national cohesion, describing unity as another front in the ongoing struggle. According to him, collective effort will help the nation overcome obstacles and achieve final victory.

The statement reflects Iran’s focus on internal solidarity amid heightened tensions with the United States and Israel, highlighting the government’s message of resilience and collective strength.

Two Bangladeshi youths from Madarganj upazila in Jamalpur district were killed in a road accident in Iraq’s Kurdistan province early Monday, Bangladesh time. The victims were identified as Bazlur Rashid, 38, and Monohar Ali, 36. Both were working at a confectionery shop in Iraq and were hit by a speeding private car while crossing the road on their way home. Police recovered their bodies and sent them to a local hospital morgue.

Family sources said Monohar Ali had gone to Iraq four years ago after taking a loan, while Bazlur Rashid had been there for one and a half years. Neither had valid documents or work permits. Their families in Jamalpur have been devastated by the news. Both men left behind wives and two children each.

Local administration officials said they learned about the incident through social media and advised the families to contact the Bangladesh Embassy in Iraq for repatriation of the bodies. Authorities also plan to inform higher officials to facilitate the process.

On Monday, the United States and Israel jointly carried out an airstrike on an Iranian naval vessel south of Larak Island in the Strait of Hormuz. According to Iranian state media, at least four people were killed in the attack. Iranian state television reported that the nearby port city of Bandar Abbas remained calm following the incident.

Citing Fox News, a senior US official stated that American forces targeted a surface-to-air missile site near Bandar Abbas after allegations that missiles had been fired at US warplanes. Sources quoted by Fox News described the military action as defensive and clarified that it did not signal the end of the current ceasefire.

The report, sourced from Middle East Eye, did not indicate any immediate escalation beyond the strike, and the overall situation in the region was described as stable.

An article published on May 26, 2026, in *Amar Desh* by Syed Abdal Ahmad describes the Day of Arafah, the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, as the most sacred day in the Islamic calendar. The report explains that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) declared Arafah as the essence of Hajj, emphasizing that standing in Arafat is the central pillar of the pilgrimage. The day is described as one of divine mercy and forgiveness, when Allah frees countless believers from hellfire and accepts their prayers.

The article details the spiritual practices associated with Arafah, including fasting for non-pilgrims, reciting specific supplications, and engaging in remembrance of Allah. It recounts that Islam was declared complete on this day through a Quranic revelation and that Prophet Muhammad delivered his Farewell Sermon at Arafat. The piece also outlines the rituals performed by pilgrims, such as standing in Arafat, proceeding to Muzdalifah, and later performing sacrifice and tawaf.

The report concludes with sermons from the imams of the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, who emphasized the obligation, virtues, and sincerity required in performing Hajj, urging Muslims to fulfill it promptly when able.