<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
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                                <title><![CDATA[The Press Today Feed]]></title>
                                <description>The Press Today Latest News Feeds</description>
                                <language>bn-BD</language>
                                <updated>Sun, 19 Apr 2026 12:58:57 +0000</updated>
                        <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Iran &#039;victorious&#039; in war with US: Iranian Speaker]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/opinion/374" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/opinion/374</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Iran had been &quot;victorious in the field&quot; during weeks of war and had only agreed to a temporary truce with the United States because its demands had been met, the Iranian parliamentary speaker said on Saturday.

The two-week ceasefire is set to end Wednesday unless it is renewed, with a permanent deal that mediators including Pakistan are pushing to get over the line still not finalised and progress on key sticking points uncertain.

&quot;We were victorious in the field,&quot; Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said in a national televised address, adding the United States had not achieved its goals and Iran controlled the strategic Strait of Hormuz maritime transit route.

&quot;If we accepted the ceasefire, it was because they accepted our demands,&quot; he said, referring to the United States.

&quot;The enemy&#39;s every effort was to impose its demands on us and it is important that we register our rights, so this is where negotiation is a method of struggle.&quot;

Ghalibaf and his delegation held closed door talks in Islamabad with US Vice President JD Vance on April 11, in the highest level Iran-US contacts since before the 1979 Islamic revolution.

The talks did not result in a final deal and officials have signalled mediations are continuing, though Iran&#39;s deputy foreign minister said on Saturday no date had been set for a new round of talks.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sun, 19 Apr 2026 12:58:57 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Trivudi is India&#039;s next envoy to Bangladesh]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/373" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/373</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[India has decided to nominate Dinesh Trivedi, a former minister and MP and current BJP leader, as the country&#39;s high commissioner to Bangladesh, reports Hindustan Times.

Trivedi is the first political appointee to Bangladesh in some time. He will replace career diplomat Pranay Verma, who is headed to Brussels to serve as India&rsquo;s envoy to the EU.

The Narendra Modi-led government in Delhi still requires the approval of the Tarique Rahman-led government in Dhaka to send the 75-year-old veteran politician to Dhaka.

Hindustan Times also described the appointment as &ldquo;a message of accountability to the Ministry of External Affairs&#39; diplomats&rdquo;.

Trivedi has served as India&rsquo;s minister for railways and also as minister of state for health and family welfare as a member of the Trinamool Congress. In 2021, he resigned from the Trinamool Congress and joined the BJP.

According to the Hindustan Times, Trivedi&rsquo;s appointment comes as India and Bangladesh seek to stabilise ties amid tensions following the mass uprising that ousted then prime minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. It added that the Modi government&rsquo;s choice of Trivedi shows it is willing to send political leaders, not just Indian Foreign Service officers, as envoys to key postings.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sun, 19 Apr 2026 12:22:07 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[LPG price raised again]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/372" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/372</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at the consumer level has been increased by Tk212, raising the cost of a 12kg cylinder to Tk1,940 from the previous Tk1,728.

Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) announced the new rate in a notice issued on Sunday afternoon.

The revised price came into effect the same evening.

Earlier, on April 2, BERC had set the price of a 12kg LPG cylinder at Tk1,728 for the current month.

With the latest adjustment, consumers now face a significant jump of Tk212 in a single revision.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sun, 19 Apr 2026 12:17:31 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Natural Gas reserves can meet 12 more yrs&#039; demand: Iqbal Hasan]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/371" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/371</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The country&#39;s existing natural gas reserves are sufficient to meet the country&#39;s energy demand for up to 12 years, Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud told parliament on Sunday.

The minister made the disclosure while responding to a question from Bogura-4 constituency lawmaker Md. Mosharraf Hossain during a session of the National Parliament chaired by Deputy Speaker Kayser Kamal on April 19.

Mahmud said the country&#39;s total recoverable gas reserves stand at 29.74 trillion cubic feet where as 22.11 trillion cubic feet had been extracted upto December 2025, leaving a remaining reserve of 7.63 trillion cubic feet as of January 1, 2026.

The minister noted that if no new gas fields are discovered and supply continues at the current rate of approximately 1,700 million cubic feet per day, the remaining reserves would sustain the national gas supply for roughly 12 years.

On exploration efforts, Mahmud said Petrobangla has a master plan to drill a total of 50 wells and conduct workover operations on 100 others. Of these, 26 wells have already been drilled or worked over, with the remaining projects at various stages of progress.

Regarding seismic surveys, the minister said state-owned BAPEX has completed the acquisition of 3,600 kilometres of 2D seismic data in Blocks 7 and 9, with data processing currently underway.

Meanwhile, preparations are in progress to launch 3D seismic data acquisition across 1,450 square kilometres covering the Habiganj, Bakhrabad, and Meghna areas through BGFCL. Additional large-scale 3D seismic surveys are also being planned across various parts of the country through BAPEX and SGFL.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sun, 19 Apr 2026 12:14:48 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[BNP secured Bogura-6, Sherpur-3 by-polls]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/370" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/370</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) clinched victories in two parliamentary by-elections on Thursday, with Rezaul Karim Badsha winning Bogura-6 and Mahmudul Haque Rubel taking Sherpur-3.

Both elections saw largely peaceful voting, though opposition candidates raised allegations of rigging and intimidation.

In the Bogura-6 by-election, BNP candidate Rezaul Karim Badsha was declared the winner with 1,33,215 votes across 150 polling centres, while his nearest rival, Abidur Rahman Sohel of Jamaat-e-Islami, received 56,904 votes.
and Mahmudul Haque Rubel was declared the winner with 1,33,215 votes across 150 polling centres, while his nearest rival, Abidur Rahman Sohel of Jamaat-e-Islami, received 56,904 votes.

Voting reportedly took place in a calm and peaceful environment. Though Abidur Rahman Sohel alleged that ruling party activists were involved in widespread rigging during the voting process, around 4 PM. The seat was previously held by Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, who won it in the February 12 general elections but later vacated it to retain Dhaka-17 constituency, where he narrowly defeated a Jamaat candidate.

The Sherpur-3 election saw a 50.52% voter turnout. Around 3:15 PM, Masudur Rahman announced his withdrawal from the race, alleging intimidation of his agents and violent attacks by ruling party activists, along with fraudulent vote casting, which he claimed were inadequately addressed by law enforcement.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 10:31:08 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Iran - US negotiation when?]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/369" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/369</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Pakistan is ready to host Iranian and US delegations for negotiations in its capital, although Tehran&#39;s participation remained uncertain after deadly Israeli strikes on Lebanon threatened this week&#39;s temporary truce. on the other hand, Israel and Lebanon will hold talks in Washington next week, a State Department official said, amid mounting international concern that Israel&#39;s bombing campaign could shatter the already fragile two-week US-Iran ceasefire, reports AFP.

Islamabad was pressing ahead with its preparations for the high-stakes negotiations, which official sources say will canvass several sensitive points, including Iran&#39;s nuclear enrichment and the free flow of trade through the strategic Strit of Hormuz maritime chokepoint. Security was ramped up in Islamabad and the main luxury hotel hosting delegates was cleared of its normal well-heeled guests, Iran signalled that its participation could hinge on a halt in Israeli attacks on Lebanon.

&quot;The holding of talks to end the war is dependent on the US adhering to its ceasefire commitments on all fronts, especially in Lebanon,&quot; Esmaeil Baqaei, Iran&#39;s foreign ministry spokesman, said. &quot;If the travel plan is finalised, the composition of the delegation will also be announced,&quot; he added.

Iran&#39;s Revolutionary Guards signalled they were committing to the ceasefire, according to the state broadcaster. &quot;We would like to inform you that the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran have not launched anything at any country during the ceasefire hours until now,&quot; the Guards said. Pakistan has insisted that Lebanon is included in the ceasefire, and Washington made a push to include Beirut in parallel talks. &quot;We can confirm that the Department will host a meeting next week to discuss ongoing ceasefire negotiations with Israel and Lebanon,&quot; a US State Department official said.

Neither Israel nor the Lebanese government have publicly confirmed these talks, although the announcement came shortly after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered his ministers to seek direct dialogue with Lebanon focused on disarming Iran-backed Hezbollah.

A Lebanese government official told AFP that Beirut would require a truce before entering any negotiations with Israel.

Attacks continued overnight, with air raid sirens in Israel&#39;s commercial hub Tel Aviv and other parts of the country and Hezbollah announcing it carried out drone and rocket strikes early on Friday on Israeli forces on both sides of the border as well as a town in Israel&#39;s north.
MarineTraffic data showed that the Gabon-flagged MSG passed through the strait on Thursday, the first non-Iranian oil tanker to do so since the ceasefire was announced.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 10:17:00 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Bangladesh preparing PM&#039;s good will visit to Delhi]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/368" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/368</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Bangladesh has expressed optimism that Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman&rsquo;s goodwill visit to India will help restore stability and lay the groundwork for stronger, more sustainable bilateral relations.

Speaking on Tuesday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson SM Mahbubul Alam said Dhaka hopes the visit will serve as a foundation for elevating cooperation between the two countries.

The Foreign Minister departed for New Delhi en route to Mauritius, where he will attend the Indian Ocean Conference from April 10-12.

During his stopover in Delhi, Dr. Rahman is scheduled to hold courtesy meetings with India&rsquo;s External Affairs Minister, National Security Adviser and the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas.

According to officials, Bangladesh will emphasize the importance of maintaining stability and advancing relations based on mutual respect, trust and shared interests.

The visit marks the first high-level engagement with India since the BNP-led government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman assumed office, following a period of strain in bilateral ties.

A senior official confirmed that the two foreign ministers will meet on April 8 in New Delhi.

Although described as a &ldquo;goodwill visit,&rdquo; officials indicated that substantive discussions are expected. Bangladesh aims to better understand current dynamics in the relationship while raising several key issues of national interest.

Among the priorities, Dhaka will seek enhanced cooperation in the energy sector and reiterate its request for the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

It will also push for the swift return of other accused individuals, including Faisal Karim Masud, in connection with a high-profile murder case.

Bangladesh is also expected to urge India to take a more positive stance on fully resuming visa services, noting the mutual benefits; particularly in medical tourism. Border management will feature prominently as well, with Dhaka stressing the need to prevent loss of life along the frontier.

Additional topics likely to be discussed include water-sharing of common rivers, easing trade barriers and strengthening people-to-people connections.

Officials on both sides see the renewed engagement as an opportunity to recalibrate relations and open a new phase of cooperation. Longstanding cultural, historical and linguistic ties continue to underpin the relationship, with both countries aiming to rebuild momentum across multiple sectors.

The possibility of a future visit by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to India may also be discussed, as both sides look to deepen diplomatic engagement in the months ahead.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 12:29:18 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[about 51000 tonnes octane and furnace oil is due to arrive: BPC]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/367" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/367</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[A vessel carrying around 26,000 tonnes of refined octane is scheduled to arrive at Chittagong port from Malaysia on Wednesday.

The Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) is supervising the import operation. The vessel, MT Central Star, flying the Marshall Islands flag, is expected to reach the port&#39;s outer anchorage within the day, a BPC official confirmed.

Authorities said another shipment of fuel oil is also en route, as the vessel MT Eastern Queens, carrying approximately 25,000 tonnes of furnace oil, is due to arrive at the outer anchorage on the same day.

Despite ongoing tensions in the Middle East, BPC officials said efforts are continuing to ensure uninterrupted fuel imports and stable supply across the country.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 12:10:30 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Ready to sacrificed my life for Iran: Iranian President]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/366" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/366</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Iran&rsquo;s President Masoud Pezeshkian says, &ldquo;More than 14 million brave Iranians have so far declared their readiness to sacrifice their lives to defend Iran&rdquo;, reports AL Jazeera.

&ldquo;I have also sacrificed my life for Iran, I am and I will continue to do so,&rdquo; he wrote on X.

Israel has carried out several high-profile assassinations since the war started on February 24, including that of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and Ali Larijani, the powerful secretary of Iran&rsquo;s Supreme National Security Council.

At least 2,076 people have been killed in Iran and 26,500 wounded.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 12:03:44 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[&quot;100% coaching centers in the country will remain closed: Edu. Minister]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/education/365" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/education/365</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Education Minister Ehsanul Haque Milon has announced that the government will close every coaching center in the country and bring unregistered kindergartens under a formal registration framework.
&quot;100% coaching centers in the country will remain shut down. The government will bring under registration all coaching centers and the kindergartens that have mushroomed across the country. Coaching centers will no longer be allowed to operate in this country,&quot; the minister said during an exchange with journalists at Cumilla Circuit House on Saturday afternoon.

Earlier in the day, the education minister attended a meeting at the Cumilla Shilpakala Academy auditorium as chief guest, where he interacted with center secretaries from the Cumilla Education Board, the Madrasa Education Board, and the Technical Education Board of Cumilla region ahead of SSC and equivalent examinations of 2026.

During the meeting, the minister announced that the installation of CCTV cameras in all educational institutions will be made mandatory. He said the cameras will be used to monitor whether teachers are present in classrooms and conducting lessons on time.

He warned that if cheating is detected at any examination center, the center secretary will be held legally accountable. &quot;Even if cheating materials are found in a washroom of the institution, the head of that institution will have to answer for it,&quot; he said.

The minister further cautioned that anyone found assisting in cheating from outside the examination center will also face legal action. &quot;No one will be allowed to cheat, and no one will be allowed to facilitate cheating,&quot; he stated firmly.

Terming the Ministry of Education a &quot;place of worship&quot; he declared that no form of corruption or dishonesty can be tolerated.

Addressing teachers, he emphasized that sincere efforts in educating students would be considered a form of &quot;Sadaqah Jariyah&quot; (ongoing charity).

The minister urged all stakeholders to treat education as a sacred responsibility and maintain integrity in the system.

Expressing confidence in teachers, the minister said they have always been protected and will continue to receive support in the future.

He, however, warned that any irregularities in the education sector would not be tolerated.

Dr Milon also noted that financial assistance had been provided in the past to teachers injured while performing their duties.

&quot;Education is not like other sectors; it is the main driver of nation-building. There is no alternative to responsibility here,&quot; he added, reiterating the government&#39;s firm position against cheating in examinations.

He further mentioned that in the past, decisions were made not to immediately penalize institutions even if their pass rate dropped to zero, allowing them an opportunity to improve.

The meeting was attended by center secretaries from the Cumilla Education Board, Madrasa Education Board, and Technical Education Board, among others.

Speakers at the event underscored the importance of collective efforts to ensure that the SSC and equivalent examinations are conducted smoothly, transparently, and without malpractice.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sun, 05 Apr 2026 08:41:59 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[New timing  for offices &amp; markets from Sunday]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/364" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/364</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Due to global energy crisis and ongoing conflict in Middle East, the government has announced revised working hours for public and private sector entities effective Sunday.

According to a gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Public Administration on Saturday, all government and private offices across the country will operate from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Monday through Thursday.

This is a reduction from the previous five-hour window that previously ran from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays remain weekend holidays throughout the sector.

The directive clarifies that emergency services such as utilities, hospitals, postal services, and security agencies remain exempt from these restrictions. While the Supreme Court will determine its own scheduling based on necessity, factories and industrial units are advised to adhere to labor laws under the guidance of the Ministry of Labor and Employment.

Similarly, banking hours have been adjusted, with scheduled banks now conducting cash transactions between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., though bank premises will stay open until 5 p.m. Branches located at sea ports, land borders, and airports will continue operating around the clock as before.

Commercial establishments including shopping malls and retail shops must also close by 6 p.m. despite appeals from business groups seeking an extension until 8 p.m.

The cabinet has confirmed that the earlier closure time remains in force. The move mirrors a similar measure implemented in late 2022 before being reversed in mid-2024 following economic stabilization.

Regarding the education sector, the Ministry of Education stated it will present proposals regarding school hours during the next cabinet meeting following consultations with stakeholders.

Preliminary discussions suggest a possible hybrid model involving alternating days of online and physical attendance.

However, educators express concern over the feasibility of online classes for students in government primary schools, noting difficulties encountered during the pandemic.

Officials acknowledge the challenge of integrating remote learning for disadvantaged children while ensuring academic progress remains uninterrupted as institutions recently reopened following the Ramadan break.

Pt/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sun, 05 Apr 2026 08:28:00 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[BNP will face same fate as AL : 11-party alliance]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/363" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/363</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The 11-party alliance held a protest rally in the capital on Saturday, demanding immediate implementation of the referendum results and protesting the government&#39;s stance against the verdict.

At a rally and procession held at the National Mosque Baitul Mukarram premises in the afternoon, leaders of the alliance claimed that the government is turning fascist by opposing reforms and the results of the referendum.

They warned that if BNP tries to establish fascism, it will face the same fate as the previous government.

From the afternoon onward, leaders and activists arrived at the rally venue in small processions from different parts of the capital.

Many carried placards with slogans such as &quot;Implement the July Charter&quot; and &quot;We Must Respect the Referendum.&quot; Participants chanted slogans in favor of the referendum and against the government&#39;s position.

The protest rally was organized by Dhaka Metropolitan City unit of the 11-party alliance, chaired by Jamaat-e-Islami Naib-e-Amir ATM Azharul Islam. Senior leaders of the coalition addressed the gathering in turn.

Speakers accused the government of disregarding the aspirations of the people and taking a stance against the referendum results. They strongly criticized the current political situation and warned that if the verdict is not implemented immediately, a tougher movement will be launched.

They also stressed the need for constitutional reform to ensure the people&#39;s voting rights and the reflection of their opinions.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sun, 05 Apr 2026 06:54:53 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Pump manager beaten at Natore over fuel crisis]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/362" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/362</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[A petrol pump manager was beaten and a journalist was assaulted while reporting on alleged fuel stockpiling in Natore on Tuesday night.

A local youth allegedly attacked Sanu Saha, manager of Natore Petroleum Agency in Hafrasta area around 9AM, after being denied petrol in a jerrycan, leaving him injured. Later the attacker fled the scene after being chased by locals. Natore Sadar Police Station OC Shafiqul Islam said legal action would be taken upon receiving a formal complaint.

Meanwhile, bikers blocked Natore-Dhaka highway in Mokrampur area after a nearby filling station ran out of fuel, causing a long tailback on the busy road.
Police from Jhalmalia Highway Police Station brought the situation under control, said its Officer in-Charge Mahabur Rahman.

In another incident the same night, local journalist Omar Faruq was assaulted by miscreants while attempting to take photographs of petrol being stored in drums illegally at a filling station in Lalpur area.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 12:10:26 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Iran clears 6 Bangladeshi ships]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/361" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/361</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Iran&#39;s National Security Council has permitted six stranded Bangladeshi vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking at a press conference held at the Iranian Embassy in Dhaka on Wednesday, Iranian Ambassador to Bangladesh Jalil Rahimi Jahanabadi said that both Iran and Bangladesh are actively working to facilitate the safe return of the vessels.
He also noted that Bangladesh&rsquo;s Foreign Minister has sent a letter to Iran&rsquo;s Foreign Minister expressing gratitude for Tehran&rsquo;s assistance in ensuring the return of Bangladeshi nationals.
The ambassador emphasised that Bangladesh&rsquo;s shipping operations would face no obstacles and that Tehran is committed to providing maximum support. He also addressed the country&rsquo;s fuel shortage, noting that images of long queues at petrol pumps had been sent to Iranian authorities, requesting assistance to avoid disruption.

However, ambassador Jalil Rahimi mentioned that Iran has expressed some dissatisfaction regarding Bangladesh&#39;s official statement on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. While acknowledging Bangladesh&#39;s expression of concern, he emphasized that a stronger condemnation of the situation was expected.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 12:07:08 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[1972 constitution couldn&#039;t protect us: MP Shafiqul]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/360" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/360</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Opposition Party Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami MP Shafiqul Islam declared in parliament on Monday that if the constitution were to be strictly adhered to, both the prime minister and home minister would not be in the country but abroad, while defending the referendum and July Charter Implementation Order amid ongoing debate.

Speaking during discussion on the motion of thanks to the President&#39;s address in the Jatiya Sangsad, Shafiqul Islam said, &quot;If we had to follow the constitution, the prime minister should not be in Bangladesh but outside the country. If the constitution had to be followed, the current home minister should now be outside the country.&quot;

The Jamaat MP expressed concern about potential discrimination similar to the past 17 years and said he has not seen effective progress in the trial for Sharif Osman Hadi&#39;s killing since the current government took office.

Pointing to the ruling party&#39;s stance on the referendum and July Charter Implementation Order, he said, &quot;If the constitution could have protected us, we would have had to search its pages to remove sand trucks that day. If the 1972 constitution could protect us, we would not be here today. We would be in jail, not in this parliament.&quot;

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 07:14:26 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Dubai tanker  is burning !]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/359" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/359</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Iran attacked and set ablaze a fully loaded crude oil tanker off Dubai on Monday, as President Donald Trump warned the US would obliterate Iran&#39;s energy plants and oil wells if it does not open the Strait of Hormuz.

The apparent strike on the Kuwait-flagged Al-Salmi is the latest in a string of assaults on merchant vessels by missiles or explosive air and sea drones in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz since the US and Israel attacked Iran on Feb 28.

The month-long conflict has spread across the Middle East, killing thousands, disrupting energy supplies and threatening to send the global economy into a tailspin.

Crude oil prices briefly spiked anew after Kuwait&#39;s state news agency reported the attack on the tanker, which can carry around 2 million barrels of oil worth more than $200 million at current pric

Kuwait Petroleum Corp, the ship&#39;s owner, said work was underway to assess damage and warned of a possible oil spill.

Authorities in Dubai later said they had been able to bring the fire under control following a drone attack on the tanker. No injuries have been reported, they said.

The jump in oil and fuel prices has started to weigh on US household finances and become a political headache for Trump and his Republican Party ahead of the November midterm elections, having vowed to lower energy prices and ramp up US oil and gas production.

The US national average retail price of gasoline crossed $4 a gallon for the first time in more than three years on Monday, data from price-tracking service GasBuddy showed, as tightening global supplies push US crude prices above $101 a barrel.

Troops Deploy As Talks Continue

Attacks by both sides is showing no signs of easing, with fears of a wider conflict growing.

Iran-aligned Houthis entered the war by firing missiles and drones at Israel in recent days and Turkey reported a ballistic missile launched from Iran had entered Turkish airspace before being shot down by NATO air and missile defenses.

Israel carried out missile strikes on what it called military infrastructure in Tehran and infrastructure used by Iran-backed Hezbollah in Beirut, leaving black smoke hanging over the Lebanese capital.

Three United Nations peacekeepers from Indonesia were killed in two separate incidents in southern Lebanon.

Thousands of soldiers from the US Army&#39;s elite 82nd Airborne Division have started arriving in the Middle East, two US officials told Reuters on Monday, part of a reinforcement that would expand Trump&#39;s options to include the deployment of forces ​inside Iranian territory, even as he pursues talks with Tehran.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt later said Trump wanted to reach a deal with Tehran before an April 6 deadline he set last week after extending an earlier deadline he had set for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway that normally carries about a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.

Leavitt said talks with Iran were progressing, adding that what Tehran says publicly differs from what it tells US officials in private.

The Wall Street Journal later reported Trump had told aides he is willing to end the military campaign against Iran even if the strait remains largely closed and leave a complex operation to reopen it for a later date.

Iran said earlier on Monday it had received US peace proposals via intermediaries, following talks on Sunday between the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said the proposals were &quot;unrealistic, illogical and excessive&quot;.

&quot;Our position is clear. We are under military aggression. Therefore, all our efforts and strength are focused on defending ourselves,&quot; he told a press conference.

Soon after Baghaei&#39;s remarks, Trump said the US was in talks with a &quot;more reasonable regime&quot; to end the war in Iran, but also issued a new warning over the Strait of Hormuz.

&quot;Great progress has been made but, if for any reason a deal is not shortly reached, which it probably will be, and if the Hormuz Strait is not immediately &#39;Open for Business,&#39; we will conclude our lovely &#39;stay&#39; in Iran by blowing up and completely obliterating all of their Electric Generating Plants, Oil Wells and Kharg Island,&quot; Trump wrote in a social media post, also threatening to attack Iranian desalination plants.

The White House said Trump was considering asking Arab nations to pay for the cost of the war. &quot;It&#39;s an idea that I know that he has and something that I think you&#39;ll hear more from him on,&quot; Leavitt said in response to a reporter&#39;s question about the idea.

His administration requested an additional $200 billion in funding for the war. The request faces stiff opposition in the US Congress which must approve new spending.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 07:08:02 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Online-Offline blended learning is expected: Education Minister]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/education/358" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/education/358</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The government is planning to introduce a blended education system combining online and in-person classes in response to the current energy situation, said Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat, the minister said discussions are underway at the policymaking level and a proposal will soon be placed before the Cabinet for approval.

He noted that authorities are considering keeping educational institutions open six days a week to make up for recent disruptions in academic schedules caused by Ramadan holidays, various protests, and other factors.

The minister added that greater emphasis is being placed on online classes in metropolitan areas as part of efforts to ensure continuity in education while addressing energy-related challenges.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 06:36:02 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Professor Dilara Hafiz is no more!]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/357" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/357</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Professor Dilara Hafiz, a distinguished academician and wife of Jatiya Sangsad Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, passed away on Saturday while undergoing treatment in Singapore. She was 78.

She breathed her last at Singapore General Hospital at around 1:30 PM local time, according to confirmation from BNP media cell officials.

A respected figure in Bangladesh&rsquo;s education sector, Prof Hafiz built a notable career spanning decades. She began as a lecturer at Eden Mohila College and later served as principal of both Eden College and Suhrawardy College. She went on to hold key national roles, including Chairman of the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) and Director General of the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE).

Born on January 2, 1949, in Sunamganj, she completed her BA (Honours) and Master&rsquo;s degrees in History from the Dhaka University (DU) in 1968 and 1969 respectively. Beyond her academic career, she was also known for her literary contributions, authoring works such as Dur Durante Achena Digante.

While widely recognised as the spouse of the Speaker, Prof Hafiz established her own legacy as an educator, administrator and mentor to generations of students.

Her body is expected to be brought back to Bangladesh on Sunday evening. The first namaz-e-janaza will be held at 11:00 AM on March 30 at the South Plaza of the National Parliament, followed by another funeral prayer after Zuhr at the central mosque in Dhaka Cantonment. She will be laid to rest at the Banani Military Graveyard.

She is survived by her husband, a son, a daughter, grandchildren and numerous admirers and well-wishers. Her passing leaves a significant void in the country&rsquo;s academic and intellectual community.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sat, 28 Mar 2026 16:01:42 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Fuel is available: Ministry of Information]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/356" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/356</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The Energy and Mineral Resources Division has issued a formal statement urging citizens to refrain from panic buying and excessive fuel purchases, confirming that stock levels and supply chains remain completely normal across the country.

According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Saturday, the government continues procuring necessary fuel from international markets to ensure uninterrupted supply aligned with national demand, eliminating any possibility of shortages.

The statement emphasized the hazardous nature of petrol, octane, and diesel, warning that private storage of these highly flammable substances poses significant safety risks to households and communities.

Authorities announced strict enforcement measures against individuals and entities engaged in illegal fuel hoarding for profit-seeking purposes. Mobile courts led by executive magistrates have been deployed across all districts to detect and prevent unauthorized stockpiling activities.

The government reiterated that fuel prices have not been increased, urging the public not to succumb to misinformation or rumors that might trigger unnecessary purchasing behavior.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sat, 28 Mar 2026 14:56:21 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[*Information Minister Calls for Strong Media and Institutions at Turkiye Summit*]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/355" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/355</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has emphasised the importance of credible communication, strong democratic institutions, and a free media in ensuring stability in the evolving global order at the International Strategic Communication Summit (STRATCOM) 2026, held today in Istanbul.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz, and Head of Communications Burhanettin Duran delivered the opening remarks at the event.

The Information Minister thanked the Government of Turkiye for hosting the timely forum amid rising global uncertainty, marked by shifting power dynamics and growing challenges of misinformation and disinformation, while delivering his speech at the panel discussion titled &ldquo;A New Framework for the Global Order: A Communication Perspective.&rdquo;

He highlighted that strategic communication is now central to governance, with nations increasingly judged by the credibility and consistency of their communication.

He stressed that the most effective response to misinformation lies in strengthening institutions, particularly an independent and professional media.

&ldquo;A strong fourth estate is essential to protect truth, ensure accountability, and sustain public trust,&rdquo; the minister said.

Bangladesh&rsquo;s ongoing reform priorities were also outlined, including strengthening democratic institutions, ensuring media freedom, reviewing restrictive laws, and developing an independent media regulatory framework.

The Information Minister reiterated that the solution to information disorder lies in a balanced, institutional approach&mdash;rejecting both censorship and unchecked chaos.

He further outlined three key principles for strategic communication: credibility, democratic resilience, and global cooperation.

The Information Minister highlighted the challenges of tackling misinformation and disinformation in a densely populated and rapidly digitizing country like Bangladesh. He noted that during the previous fascist regime, information was strategically distorted and used as a tool to control the public.

He Minister stated in his speech that in this digital age, an effective balance is needed between access to information and the free flow of information. A new, appropriate framework at both national and international levels will help us address emerging challenges. Bangladesh seeks to learn from other countries on these issues, while also contributing its own experiences to enrich global knowledge. This shared knowledge will work towards global peace and prosperity.

Highlighting bilateral ties, Bangladesh reaffirmed its close relationship with Turkiye and appreciated its support on humanitarian issues, including the Rohingya crisis.

Zahir Uddin Swapan concluded his speech with a call for a more inclusive global communication framework that ensures the voices of developing nations are fairly represented.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Tahsin Ertugruloglu, Syria&rsquo;s Minister of Information Hamza Almustafa, and First Vice Minister for Culture and Information of Kazakhstan Kanat Zhumabayevich Iskakov also participated in the panel discussion.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sat, 28 Mar 2026 06:05:09 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Dilara Hafiz is on ventilation]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/354" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/354</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Mrs. Dilara Hafiz, wife of National Parliament Speaker Hafiz Uddin Bir Bikrom, is in critical condition and has been placed on ventilator support at Singapore General Hospital, party officials confirmed on Friday.

BNP Media Cell member Shayrul Kabir Khan said Mrs. Dilara Hafiz is undergoing advanced treatment at the hospital and remains in a critical state.

A medical board meeting is scheduled for Saturday morning to assess her latest condition and determine the next course of treatment.

Mrs. Dilara Hafiz had been receiving treatment at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Dhaka for an extended period. When her condition did not improve as expected, she was airlifted to Singapore by air ambulance on the afternoon of Eid-ul-Fitr.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sat, 28 Mar 2026 05:25:59 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Liberation War can&#039;t be equated: Home Minister]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/353" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/353</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The Home Minister and BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed on Friday stated that the 1971 Liberation War stands unmatched in the nation&#39;s history and must not be equated with any other event, including the 2024 movement that toppled the previous government.

Speaking at a BNP discussion marking Independence Day at Engineers&#39; Institution in Dhaka&#39;s Ramna, Salahuddin addressed those who had proposed placing the 2024 uprising alongside 1971 in the constitutional preamble. &quot;1971 will never match any other history. Bangladesh&#39;s most glorious achievement is its independence, Liberation War and the struggle for freedom,&quot; he said.

He emphasized that BNP does not seek to diminish anyone&#39;s contributions or claim ownership of victory but insisted that the Liberation War must be honored above all else.

He said events such as 1975, 1979, 1990 and 2024 hold their own significance but cannot stand on the same footing as the war of independence.

Drawing a clear distinction between the two movements, Salahuddin said the 2024 uprising was a popular movement to topple a fascist autocratic government. &quot;The autocracy fell, but the state was not newly created. The state was won at the cost of hundreds of thousands of lives. We must protect its sovereignty and independence,&quot; he said, adding that the government would continue practicing democratic values to prevent any future return of authoritarianism.

Salahuddin outlined BNP&#39;s role in the country&#39;s democratic history, describing it as a record of defending democracy, restoring multiparty politics, establishing parliamentary governance and introducing the caretaker government system.

He credited former president Ziaur Rahman with liberating the country from one-party rule and restoring democratic foundations through the Fifth Amendment to the constitution.
He described BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia&#39;s legacy as one of fighting military autocracy and leading struggles for democratic freedom, noting that parliamentary democracy began its journey after BNP assumed power in 1991.

Criticizing the Awami League, Salahuddin said those who claimed to be the sole custodians of the spirit of independence had consistently denied Ziaur Rahman&#39;s documented role in declaring independence.

He said that on the night of March 25, 1971, when Pakistani forces launched mass killings at Rajarbagh Police Lines and other locations, it was Ziaur Rahman who declared rebellion from Chittagong and called for independence.

&quot;It is documented that the Liberation War began through Ziaur Rahman&#39;s declaration. He even declared independence in the name of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, yet the Awami fascist forces have always refused to give him that credit,&quot; the home minister said.

Salahuddin pledged that the government would continue advancing the state through parliamentary discussions, consensus and democratic culture, ensuring that Bangladesh&#39;s sovereignty and democratic institutions remain protected.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sat, 28 Mar 2026 05:21:41 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Govt. offices will reopen from Tuesday]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/352" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/352</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The seven-day government holiday on the occasion of the holy Eid-ul-Fitr ends on Monday.

After this long break, offices, courts, banks, insurance institutions and the stock market will reopen from Tuesday (March 24).

Eid-ul-Fitr, one of the biggest religious festivals of the Muslim community, was celebrated in the country on March 21.]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 10:35:47 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Canal excavation has started Barguna]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/351" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/351</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Chief Whip of Parliament Md Nurul Islam has launched the excavation of Kroke Canal in Barguna as part of a countrywide programme to dredge and restore rivers, canals and water bodies.

The initiative forms part of the government&#39;s wider strategy to boost environmental protection and strengthen climate resilience nationwide, according to a press release.

The inauguration was attended by Md Oli Ullah, a Member of Parliament from Islami Andolon Bangladesh, alongside local public representatives, political leaders and residents.

Officials said the programme reflects a key electoral pledge of the current government led by Tarique Rahman, Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, who committed to large scale excavation and restoration of water bodies across the country.

The project is expected to enhance water flow, reduce waterlogging and support sustainable environmental management in climate vulnerable areas like Barguna.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 10:32:46 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[BNP has announced Independence and National Day program]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/350" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/350</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[BNP has announced a two day programme to observe the Great Independence and National Day on March 26, the party&#39;s Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said on Sunday.

Speaking at a press conference at the party&#39;s Nayapaltan central office, Rizvi outlined the planned activities. The party will hoist national and party flags at all its offices, including the central office, in the morning.

On the day, the president and prime minister will place wreaths at the National Memorial in Savar to pay tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War. BNP leaders and activists will also pay homage there on behalf of the party.

From the National Memorial, party leaders and activists will proceed to Sher e Bangla Nagar to place wreaths at the graves of the party&#39;s founder and former President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. A doa mahfil will be held at the grave premises, organised by the Jatiyatabadi Olama Dal.

On March 25, BNP will hold a discussion meeting at 2:30pm at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh.

Rizvi, who is also the prime minister&#39;s adviser on industry, said Independence and National Day is a major milestone in the nation&#39;s history, as independence gave Bangladesh a distinct identity on the world map and within the international community.

He said the day is highly significant as independence was achieved through long struggle and sacrifice, culminating on March 26. Rizvi noted that then Major Ziaur Rahman&#39;s declaration of independence inspired people from all walks of life, including students, workers, farmers and ordinary citizens, to join the Liberation War.

He said BNP has taken elaborate programmes to observe the day with respect for the sacrifices made during the Liberation War. The party has already published a poster marking Independence Day and will issue special supplements in national dailies.

In addition to the central two day programme, Rizvi said BNP units at district and municipal levels will organise discussion meetings and other events, while associate and affiliated bodies will implement their own programmes.

He called on leaders and activists of BNP and its associate organisations to make the programmes a success.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 10:19:30 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[National Eidgah ready for Eid-ul-Fitr]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/349" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/349</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[DSCC Administrator Abdus Salam has said that all arrangements have been finalised for the main Eid-ul-Fitr congregation to be held at National Eidgah in the capital. According to him, the main Eid congregation is scheduled to begin at 8:30 AM and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is expected to attend the prayers.

The National Eidgah ground, which covers around 25,400 square metres, can accommodate approximately 35,000 devotees at a time. Considering the possibility of adverse weather conditions, rain protection coverings and special drainage systems have also been put in place. If the weather becomes unfavourable, the main Eid congregation will instead be held at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque at 9:00 AM.

The DSCC administrator said drinking water facilities will be available at entry points and inside the Eidgah premises, while primary medical services and mobile toilet facilities have also been arranged for devotees.

A total of four gates have been designated for entry, including separate access for VIPs and general devotees, while seven gates will be used for exit. The entire area will remain under strict security surveillance by law enforcement agencies, and fire service units will remain on standby to respond to any emergency.

Besides the Prime Minister, the Chief Justice, cabinet members, diplomats and senior government officials are also expected to attend the main congregation. Abdus Salam said all preparations have been taken to ensure that devotees can perform the Eid prayers smoothly in a peaceful environment.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 06:39:25 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Long Eid vacation starts from today]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/348" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/348</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[A weeklong holiday began from Tuesday as the country gears up to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, the biggest religious festival of Muslims.

Millions of people have already started leaving major cities including the capital to celebrate the festival with their families and near and dear ones in their home as Monday was the last working day before Eid. Subject to moon sighting, Eid-ul-Fitr is expected to be celebrated in the country on March 20 or March 21.

The government has also declared March 18 a holiday to ensure that people travelling home for Eid do not face disruption, making Monday the final working day for government officials and employees before the festival.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 06:30:40 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[7 new vice-chancellors (VCs)]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/education/347" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/education/347</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The government has appointed new vice-chancellors (VCs) at seven universities across Bangladesh, including University of Dhaka and Jagannath University.

Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon announced the appointments at a press conference on Monday.

Prof. ABM Obaidul Islam has been appointed vice-chancellor of University of Dhaka, while Prof. Rais Uddin will serve as VC of Jagannath University.

Prof. Siddiqur Rahman Khan has been named VC of Bangladesh Open University and Prof. Nurul Islam has been appointed to Dhaka Central University.

Prof. Mohammad Masud will lead Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET) as vice-chancellor, Prof. Md Al Forkan will head University of Chittagong, and Prof. Faridul Islam will take charge at University of Rajshahi.

The education minister expressed hope that the newly appointed vice-chancellors would play a key role in enhancing academic standards, advancing research activities and improving the overall management of their respective institutions.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 10:47:12 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Condolence motions for former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and others]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/346" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/346</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The National Parliament on Thursday presented condolence motions for several prominent leaders.

Tributes were paid to former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Pope Francis, and Iran&rsquo;s former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Additionally, condolence motions were introduced for former President AQM Badruddoza Chowdhury, Matia Chowdhury and 31 other former members of the parliament.

Meanwhile, a proposal was raised to include the names of Jamaat leaders who had been executed for war crimes during the Liberation War. The list included former Jamaat ameer Matiur Rahman Nizami, along with Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mujahid, Delwar Hossain Sayeedi, Salahuddin Quader Chowdhury, Maulana Abdus Subhan, Abdul Quader Mollah, Mir Quasem Ali, and Muhammad Kamaruzzaman.

The Speaker subsequently incorporated the proposal.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:01:27 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Hafiz and Kayser Kamal elected Speaker and Deputy Speaker respectively]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/345" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/345</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oath to the newly elected Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad on Thursday.

Major (Retd.) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed (Bir Bikram), Minister for Liberation War Affairs, was elected as Speaker, while Barrister Kayser Kamal, MP from Netrakona-1 (Kalamkanda-Durgapur) and State Minister for Land, was elected as Deputy Speaker.

Prior to this appointment as the speaker, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed was serving as the liberation war affairs minister but resigned from the post on Wednesday (March 11), confirmed Md Akbar Hossain, assistant private secretary to the minister.

Meanwhile, Kayser Kamal had been serving as the state minister for the Ministry of Land.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:56:48 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Journey towards democracy starts today: Prime Minister]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/344" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/344</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The long-cherished parliamentary democracy began its journey once again in the country today (Thursday), Alhamdulillah, said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. &#39;&#39;Want to make this Parliament meaningful for sake of the country and the people.&#39;&#39;

The prime minister said that a people-accountable and truly representative parliament elected by the people has begun its journey again in the country through the tears of countless victims of fascism and the sacrifice of thousands of lives.
&ldquo;At this historic moment of Bangladesh&rsquo;s Jatiya Sangsad, I would like to express gratitude to the Almighty Allah, by whose infinite mercy, we have been able to begin our journey towards building a just, democratic and humane Bangladesh,&rdquo; he said.

Tarique Rahman, also the Leader of the House, made the remarks in his welcome speech at the Parliament on Thursday.

In his speech, he paid tribute to all those who had been martyred in the struggle for democracy and rights, from the War of Independence in 1971 to the struggle to protect the country and its people in 2024.

At the beginning of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, the premier also recalled with gratitude those who lost their children, near and dear ones and relatives, those injured people who had to loss their comfortable lives in the movement for democracy and human rights as well as those who lost everything due to torture, political harassment or false cases during the fascism.

In this connection, he mentioned the people from all walks of life&mdash;including students, farmers, workers, teachers, poets, writers, journalists, doctors, engineers, lawyers, craftsmen, fishermen, weavers, drivers, businesspeople, government and private employees, homemakers and leaders, activists and supporters of democratic political parties across the country &mdash;who endured repression, abduction, killings, torture and harassment.

The Prime Minister said even brutal detention centres described as &ldquo;Ayna Ghar,&rdquo; enforced disappearances and various forms of repression could not suppress their democratic aspirations.

He said it was the courageous role of the people&mdash;especially the students and masses&mdash;that restored democracy in the country.

At the start of the 13th Parliament&rsquo;s journey, Tarique Rahman congratulated the democracy-loving and freedom-loving people of the country, particularly the students and the people who played a leading role to this end.

Addressing the lawmakers, the Prime Minister said former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia had established parliamentary democracy in Bangladesh and institutionalized the system to ensure people&rsquo;s rights.

Tarique Rahman, also BNP chairman, said but that democratic system was later turned into a mockery and the Jatiya Sangsad had been reduced to a subject of ridicule by establishing an authoritarian regime and exploitation in the country.

Noting that Begum Khaleda Zia fought until the last day of her life to restore parliamentary democracy and people&rsquo;s rights, Tarique Rahman said but she (Khaleda Zia) never compromised with autocracy or fascism.

&ldquo;That long-cherished parliamentary democracy began its journey once again in the country today, Alhamdulillah,&rdquo; the Leader of the House said.

&ldquo;The founder of parliamentary politics, Khaleda Zia, could not witness this auspicious moment in the success of the country and the people. Therefore, standing in this House, we remember with deep respect the late Khaleda Zia, an uncompromising leadership to protect the country and its people as well as a memorable, distinguished and exemplary political figure,&rdquo; he said.

Citing a quote from Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman&ldquo;If the people themselves become a political party, then I belong to that party&rdquo;, he said this statement reflects that the interest of the people must come before the interests of individuals or parties, which is the core philosophy of BNP&rsquo;s politics.

Stating that he has been elected as a member of parliament (MP) from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for the first time and has also chosen as the parliamentary party leader, he said, &ldquo;Although I represent (my) party in the Jatiya Sangsad, as the Prime Minister, I represent the entire country in this House&rdquo;.

The premier stressed that his politics is about protecting the interests of the country and its people. &ldquo;BNP&rsquo;s politics is about improving people&rsquo;s living standards and building a self-reliant Bangladesh. The goal of our politics is to make every family self-reliant,&rdquo; he added.

Noting that BNP wants to establish a self-reliant, prosperous, safe and democratic Bangladesh by making every family self-reliant, Tarique Rahman sought the support and cooperation from the people as well as all elected members of parliament from all political parties to achieve this goal.

&ldquo;I believe that our parties, opinions, and programmes may be different, but there can be no disagreement between us in establishing an independent, sovereign, safe and self-reliant Bangladesh free from fascism and subjugation,&rdquo; he added.

The Leader of the House criticized the previous regime, saying the ousted fascist government had rendered the Jatiya Sangsad ineffective instead of making it the centre of national activities.

&ldquo;We want to make this great Jatiya Sangsad the center of all arguments, debates and solutions to national problems,&rdquo; he said.

Referring to the start of the new Jatiya Sangsad session, the Prime Minister said that traditionally the former Speaker or Deputy Speaker should have been present when the parliament began its journey.

However, he said that due to public outrage generated by the anti-people activities of the fallen, defeated and ousted fascist government, the former Speaker and Deputy Speaker could not be found. Some of them are in prison, some missing and others absconding, the premier added.

After more than a decade and a half of fascist and subservient rule, Tarique Rahman said that the activities of the Jatiya Sangsad were starting under a special circumstance with representatives elected by the people.

In such a situation, following the provisions of the Constitution and the Rules of Procedure of Parliament, he proposed the name of Dr Khondoker Mosharraf Hossain, a veteran politician and five-time elected lawmaker, to preside over the maiden session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad.

The Leader of the House noted that such situations are not unprecedented in Bangladesh&rsquo;s parliamentary history.

Tarique Rahman said, in 1973, the then Prime Minister late Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had proposed the name of Maulana Abdur Rashid Tarkabagish, a member of parliament, to preside over the first session of the country&rsquo;s first parliament.
PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:54:11 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[BNP behaving like the then-ruling Awami League: Nahid]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/343" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/343</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP) Convener and Dhaka-11 MP Nahid Islam has accused Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) of behaving like the then-ruling Awami League and warned that his party could return to mass protests if what he called anti reform actions continue.

Speaking at a pre-iftar gathering organised by the NCP at a school ground in Barishal city on Sunday, Nahid alleged that the BNP had revealed its intentions by filing a defamation case against NCP Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary.

&ldquo;If the BNP continues to act like the Awami League, we will also return to the path of mass uprising,&rdquo; he said.

Nahid further claimed that if the BNP &ldquo;betrays the blood of martyrs&rdquo; and sides with the Awami League and India against reform efforts while supporting corrupt elements, the NCP would have no alternative but to take to the streets again.

He also alleged that candidates from the NCP and the 11 party alliance were defeated through vote rigging in the recent national election.

Addressing young supporters, Nahid urged them to prepare for the upcoming local government polls. &ldquo;The rigging that happened in the national election will not be allowed in the local government elections,&rdquo; he said.

The NCP leader accused the BNP of failing to honour its promises immediately after assuming office. He warned that if a reform council is not formed during the next parliamentary session scheduled for March 12, his party would resume street agitation to defend what he described as the people&rsquo;s rights.

At the same rally, Nasiruddin Patwary also criticised the BNP, alleging that the party was steering the country toward greater Indian influence.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 05:46:00 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[New supreme leader won’t ‘last long’ : Trump]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/342" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/342</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The next supreme leader of Iran &ldquo;is not going to last long&rdquo; says US President Donald Trump. Source ABC News. &ldquo;If he doesn&rsquo;t get approval from us he&rsquo;s not going to last long.&rdquo;

His comments came as the Iranian clerical body responsible for choosing the successor to slain supreme leader Ali Khamenei was reported to have voted and would soon announce a name.

IRGC warns of retaliation during US-Israel attacks on energy infrastructure. A spokesperson for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) says it will retaliate if US-Israeli attacks on Iran&rsquo;s energy infrastructure don&rsquo;t let up.

In a statement carried by Iranian state media, the unnamed spokesperson accused the US and Israel of targeting civilians and fuel and energy facilities and claimed the IRGC has &ldquo;refrained from any similar action&rdquo;.

Gulf countries should tell the US and Israel to stop, the spokesperson added, or else &ldquo;similar actions will be taken in the region.&rdquo; &ldquo;If you can tolerate oil at more than $200 per barrel, continue this game.&rdquo;

Earlier, we reported that two people had been killed and 12 wounded in a strike on central Saudi Arabia. Those killed were of Indian and ⁠Bangladeshi nationalities, the civil defence agency said ⁠in a post on X.

Iran&rsquo;s ⁠Revolutionary Guard said ⁠earlier that it targeted radar systems in locations &zwnj;that included Saudi&rsquo;s al-Kharj, where the deaths were reported. Iran began hitting targets in Israel as well as US military assets in Gulf states after the initial US-Israeli strikes on February 28 and the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The US embassy in Saudi Arabia and US consulate in the United Arab Emirates came under drone attacks on Tuesday.

The current situation in the Strait of Hormuz and the widening scope of the conflict could trigger multiple simultaneous crises, Iraq&rsquo;s foreign minister warns.

Fuad Hussein told his Arab League counterparts the critical waterway&rsquo;s closure has a &ldquo;direct impact on the interests of Iraq, the region and the world&rdquo;.

Other repercussions could include &ldquo;crises in energy supplies and prices, widespread armed chaos in the region, and mass displacement or migration&rdquo;, he added.

Iraq&rsquo;s oil production from its main fields has plummeted by about 70 percent in recent days as it remains unable to export crude through the strait.

Iranian state media are reporting that explosions have been heard in the city of Qom. According to the semiofficial Tasnim news agency, the attacks targeted two areas of Qom, a major centre of religious scholarship.

In a statement, Hezbollah said its fighters targeted the Misgav base, which it described as a logistics base, at 1:35pm local time (11:35 GMT) today. It remains unclear if there were any casualties. The group said the attack came after what it described as Israeli strikes on dozens of Lebanese towns and cities, including Beirut&rsquo;s southern suburbs.

The Israeli military has pummeled Lebanon with more than 100 aerial strikes over the past day. In a statement summarising today&rsquo;s attacks, the Israeli army said it hit Hezbollah weapons storage facilities, &ldquo;dozens&rdquo; of military sites, a command centre and training compound. One attack in the eastern Bekaa Valley area killed Mustafa Ahmad al-Zein, who the army claimed was a Hezbollah operative.

The United States says Israeli strikes in Iran have targeted local fuel depots, adding that Washington does not plan to target Iran&rsquo;s energy industry, including its oil and gas sector. Speaking to CNN on Sunday, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the sites hit were &ldquo;Israeli strikes&rdquo; on &ldquo;local fuel depots to fill up the gas tank&rdquo;, referring to attacks on oil storage facilities in and around Tehran that triggered large fires on Saturday.

He added that Washington is targeting &ldquo;zero energy infrastructure&rdquo; and has no plans to strike Iran&rsquo;s oil or natural gas industry.

The war has severely disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route through which about 20 percent of the world&rsquo;s oil usually passes.
PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 05:35:27 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Faisal Karim Masud and Alamgir arrested in India]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/crime/341" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/crime/341</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Bring back two key accused of the murder of Inqilab Moncho convener Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi including prime accused Faisal Karim Masud and Alamgir is underway. ISPR.

The two accused &mdash; Rahul, also known as Faisal Karim Masud, 37, and Alamgir Hossain, 34 &mdash; were detained from the Bangaon area of West Bengal.

According to relevant sources, DGFI Director General Major General Mohammad Kaysar Rashid Chowdhury recently visited India, after which Indian authorities intensified action against individuals who had fled Bangladesh. Faisal and Alamgir are believed to have entered India illegally through the Meghalaya border following the killing and later moved between different locations before attempting to take shelter near the Bangaon border with plans to return to Bangladesh.

They were arrested late Saturday night and produced before a court in Bidhannagar, West Bengal, on Sunday. The court granted police 14 days of custody for interrogation.

Officials said that once legal procedures in India are completed, efforts are underway to expedite their return to Bangladesh.

Sharif Osman Hadi was shot on December 12 last year on Box Culvert Road under Paltan Police Station in Dhaka.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:53:39 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Govt. has imposed limits on fuel purchases.]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/340" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/340</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The government has imposed limits on fuel purchases per vehicle as authorities seek to curb panic buying and prevent shortages amid global supply disruptions linked to the ongoing US-Israel conflict involving Iran.

In a notification issued on Friday, the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) outlined new caps on the amount of fuel consumers can purchase at filling stations.

Under the new rules, motorcycles may buy a maximum of 2 liters of petrol or octane per visit, while private cars are limited to 10 liters. Jeeps and microbuses can purchase between 20 and 25 liters. Pickup trucks and local buses running on diesel are capped at 70 to 80 liters, and long-distance buses and trucks may buy up to 200 to 220 liters.

The decision follows concerns over public anxiety regarding fuel stock levels. Officials said that negative reports circulating in media and on social platforms have triggered unusually high demand, with some dealers attempting to collect more fuel than usual from depots and some consumers allegedly stockpiling fuel beyond their immediate needs.

BPC emphasized that about 95 percent of country&rsquo;s fuel is imported, and global crises can occasionally disrupt or delay shipments.

However, the corporation assured the public that fuel imports are continuing as scheduled and consignments are arriving regularly. Fuel is being distributed from main installations to depots across the country via rail wagons and tankers. Authorities expressed hope that adequate buffer stocks will be built up soon.

To ensure transparency and prevent hoarding, several conditions have been imposed. Filling stations must issue purchase receipts clearly stating the type, quantity, and price of fuel sold. Consumers must present the original copy of their previous purchase receipt when buying fuel again.

Dealers are required to follow allocation guidelines strictly and provide stock and sales data to their respective depots before lifting fuel. Oil marketing companies have been instructed not to supply beyond approved allocations.

The government reiterated that fuel must be sold at officially set prices and warned that charging extra under the pretext of crisis would constitute a punishable offense.

Earlier, State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Anindya Islam Amit announced on Friday that fuel will be sold under a rationing system from Sunday in a bid to prevent long-term shortages.

Speaking to reporters after inspecting a petrol pump in the capital&rsquo;s Paribagh area, the state minister said written directives outlining the new rationing system would be issued to fuel stations nationwide.

He said the move is aimed at ensuring sustainable fuel supply and managing distribution efficiently amid concerns over potential supply disruptions.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sat, 07 Mar 2026 05:54:15 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Khalil and Rizwana to be  interrogated over &#039;election engineering&#039;: Jamat]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/339" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/339</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami organized a protest rally in Dhaka demanding the interrogation of Foreign Minister (FM) Khalilur Rahman and former interim government adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan over alleged election engineering in the 13th national parliamentary polls.

Party leaders and activists of Jamaat&rsquo;s Dhaka metropolitan unit held a brief rally at the north gate of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque at noon before bringing out a protest procession.

The demonstration follows allegations made on Thursday by Jamaat Nayeb-e-Ameer and Deputy Leader of the Opposition in Parliament Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher.

Taher accused Khalilur Rahman, who previously served as National Security Adviser in the interim government and now holds the post of foreign minister in the BNP-led government, of playing a role in manipulating the election process.

Taher also raised similar allegations against Syeda Rizwana Hasan, another former adviser to the interim administration.

Speaking at Friday&rsquo;s rally, Jamaat Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar called for a formal investigation into claims that the people&rsquo;s mandate was altered through election engineering. He urged authorities to question both Khalilur Rahman and Rizwana Hasan and to disclose the names of any others allegedly involved.

Referring to remarks attributed to Rizwana Hasan about opposition politics, Parwar questioned whether Jamaat was being sidelined from the political mainstream. &ldquo;If others were involved, their names should be made public,&rdquo; he said.

Parwar stated that Jamaat had accepted the election results despite what he described as deep disappointment, saying the party did so in the interest of national stability and fulfilling public expectations.

On Thursday, Taher had said Jamaat filed specific complaints regarding alleged irregularities in 53 constituencies during the parliamentary election.

Parwar also alleged that Khalilur Rahman&rsquo;s appointment to the cabinet was politically motivated, suggesting he had benefited certain political forces during the interim government period.

Leaders of Jamaat&rsquo;s Dhaka metropolitan unit were present at the rally. Neither the Foreign Ministry nor Syeda Rizwana Hasan has publicly responded to the allegations.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sat, 07 Mar 2026 05:49:37 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN (MIGA!).: Trump]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/338" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/338</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[US President Donald Trump says &quot;there will be no deal with Iran except UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER&quot;, reports BBC.

Writing on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump adds: &quot;After that, and the selection of a GREAT &amp; ACCEPTABLE Leader(s), we, and many of our wonderful and very brave allies and partners, will work tirelessly to bring Iran back from the brink of destruction, making it economically bigger, better, and stronger than ever before.

&quot;IRAN WILL HAVE A GREAT FUTURE. &#39;MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN (MIGA!).&#39;&quot;

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sat, 07 Mar 2026 05:48:55 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Jamat holds talk with US envoy in Bangladesh]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/337" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/337</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[A delegation of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami met US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Paul Kapur on Thursday in Dhaka for a cordial courtesy meeting.

The meeting took place at the residence of US Ambassador in Dhaka in a friendly and cooperative atmosphere, according to a press release.

The Jamaat delegation was led by the party&rsquo;s Dr Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher, Nayeb-e-Ameer and Deputy Leader of the Opposition in Parliament.

Other members included Assistant Secretary General Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan, Central Executive Council Member Saiful Alam Khan, Foreign Affairs Consultant Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury and Special Adviser on Foreign Affairs to the Jamaat Ameer, Barrister Mir Ahmed Bin Kasem.

The meeting focused on maintaining friendly ties and fostering dialogue between the party and US officials, reflecting a spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:56:48 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Route permits will be cancelled for extra fares during Eid]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/336" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/336</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam on Thursday warned that route permits of bus companies will be cancelled if they charge extra fares during the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr travel period.

The minister made the remarks while speaking to reporters after a meeting at the Secretariat on preparations to ensure a safe and smooth journey for passengers during Eid.

He said strict action would be taken against transport operators who charge more than the government-approved fare.

&ldquo;If anyone charges even one taka more than the approved fare, inform us. Exemplary action will be taken. We will control this at any cost,&rdquo; he said.

Responding to a question, the minister noted that there is no scope for charging extra fares as a fixed fare structure has already been set.

According to him, transport owners who attended the meeting assured the authorities that they would not charge additional fares during the Eid travel period.

&ldquo;There is a fixed fare structure. Passengers can ask whether the fare being charged is approved. No operator can charge any fare beyond the approved rate,&rdquo; he added.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:51:53 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[March 17 to 23 Eid-ul-Fitr holiday.]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/335" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/335</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The government has announced an additional public holiday on March 18 to facilitate smooth travel for homebound passengers during Eid. As a result, government employees will enjoy a seven-day consecutive holiday from March 17 to March 23 during the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr.

The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting held on Thursday at the Secretariat. The meeting was chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

After the meeting, Primary and Mass Education State Minister Bobby Hajjaj confirmed the decision to media personnel.

He said that following the scheduled holiday for Shab-e-Qadr on 17 March, the government has declared 18 March a general holiday through an executive order.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:45:35 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Congratulatory banners-billboards to be removed]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/334" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/334</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Prime Minister (PM) Tarique Rahman has directed the authorities to immediately take down all banners billboards and digital screens featuring his photograph across Dhaka.

The directive came after the premier personally spotted several congratulatory displays during his regular commutes through the capital.

Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman confirmed that the order was issued to relevant officials on Tuesday following multiple sightings that prompted the swift action.

During his morning journey from his Gulshan residence to his office, the Prime Minister observed a banner carrying his image positioned near Police Plaza in the Hatirjheel area.

He ordered it removed on the spot and authorities complied without delay. The incident was not isolated as commercial companies had also placed advertisements on billboards throughout the city featuring photographs of the newly appointed leader alongside congratulatory messages.

Days earlier a similar situation arose when the premier was travelling through Bijoy Sarani and noticed his photograph displayed on an LED screen with celebratory content. That too was ordered removed immediately.

The Prime Minister arrived at his Cabinet Division office located within the Bangladesh Secretariat at approximately nine in the morning on Tuesday.
Following his arrival he received Rear Admiral Md Ziaul Haque who serves as Director General of the Bangladesh Coast Guard in a courtesy meeting.

During their discussion the premier issued instructions to strengthen routine patrol operations across coastal regions and throughout Bay of Bengal waters.

He emphasized the need to combat piracy robbery and illegal trafficking while also prioritizing the protection of fisheries resources and ensuring the welfare and safety of fishermen operating in those areas.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 11:23:38 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Any successor to Iran&#039;s Khamenei &#039;target for assassination&#039;]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/333" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/333</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Israel&#39;s Defence Minister Israel Katz threatened on Wednesday to assassinate any Iranian leader picked to succeed supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes on Tehran.

&quot;Any leader selected by the Iranian terror regime to continue leading the plan for Israel&#39;s destruction, threatening the United States, the free world and countries in the region and suppressing the Iranian people, will be a certain target for assassination, no matter his name or where he hides,&quot; Katz said in a post on X.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 11:16:41 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[US immigrant visa stopped for Bangladesh]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/332" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/332</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The United States Department of State has paused immigrant visa issuance for citizens of Bangladesh and several other specified countries.

The US Embassy Dhaka shared the information on Monday in a Facebook post.

Under the new directive, immigrant visas -- those that allow foreign nationals to obtain permanent residency in the United States -- will not be issued to applicants from a list of about 75 countries while the US government reviews its policies and procedures for screening such visas. Bangladesh is included on this list.

The pause affects only immigrant visas and does not extend to non-immigrant visas -- such as tourist, business, student, or temporary visitor visas -- which will continue to be processed normally.

The embassy&#39;s announcement reiterated that those wishing to travel to the United States for short-term visits, tourism, or other temporary purposes can still apply for visas as before, and these applications remain unaffected by the new suspension.

No timeline has yet been provided for when the immigrant visa suspension might be lifted.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 11:12:42 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[555 killed in Iran war: Iran Red Crescent]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/331" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/331</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[A total of 555 people have been killed across Iran in US and Israeli strikes that began two days ago, the Iranian Red Crescent said on Monday.

Following the Zionist-American terrorist attacks carried out in variousregions of our country, 131 cities have been affected to date and,regrettably, 555 of our compatriots have been killed,&quot; the humanitarian group

said in a post on Telegram.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 11:09:15 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[PM consulted on functional transport system]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/330" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/330</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Prime Minister Tarique Rahman met a group of experts led by engineer Dr. Md Shamsul Haque, Professor of the Department of Civil Engineering at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) to develop a disciplined, systematic and smooth functional traffic operation in the city.

After a meeting with the Prime Minister, Shamsul Haque said, &#39;&#39;I understand that transportation is a major problem. We must solve it and we need to provide a people-friendly public transport system.&#39;&#39;

He added that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, having spent 16 years in London, has closely observed developed public transportation systems. &#39;&#39;We discussed this issue for two hours.&#39;&#39;

&#39;&#39;The Prime Minister is interested to ensure that the metro system functions in its own capacity, but in coordination with other metro versions and transport modes so that the entire system operates in an integrated manner.&#39;&#39;

Shamsul Haque added that, as an initial step, the Prime Minister is prioritising the introduction of safe and appealing public transport services for women. In the primary phase, there will be women-friendly and secure public transport -- buses to be driven by women.

Dr. Haque noted that the Prime Minister&#39;s strongest interest lies in beginning electrification through buses. He wants to start with electric bus-based public transport within 180 days, particularly for women.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 11:05:22 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Middle East alerts for expatriate Bangladeshis]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/329" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/329</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Bangladeshi embassies in several Middle Eastern countries have issued emergency advisories urging expatriates to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures amid escalating regional tensions linked to the ongoing Iran&ndash;US&ndash;Israel conflict.

The Bangladesh missions in Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Iraq and Bahrain have asked nationals to prioritise their safety, avoid unnecessary movement and strictly follow host country regulations as the security situation evolves.
The Bangladesh Embassy in Kuwait has urged expatriates to remain on high alert due to the outbreak of war in the surrounding region. In a notice issued on Saturday, the mission advised citizens to exercise special caution and avoid military installations.

Bangladeshis have been requested to stay indoors at their residences or in secure locations and to refrain from going outside unless absolutely necessary. They were also advised to keep essential items ready, including cash, Kuwait Civil ID, health insurance card, necessary medicines, mobile phones and chargers, dry food and drinking water.

The embassy further instructed nationals to comply with Kuwaiti laws and follow all official directives. It also warned against spreading rumours or sharing unverified images and videos on social media.

In case of emergency, expatriates may contact the embassy hotlines at +965 69920013, +965 66516404 and +965 50895161 or email mission.kuwait@mofa.gov.bd.

The Bangladesh Embassy in Abu Dhabi issued a similar emergency notice urging nationals in the UAE to remain vigilant amid the ongoing war situation and regional instability.

Expatriates have been advised to avoid military sites, stay indoors or in safe places, and not gather in open areas unless absolutely necessary. The embassy also asked citizens to keep essential items ready, including cash, Emirates ID, passport, medicines, mobile phones and chargers, as well as sufficient food and water.

Bangladeshis have been urged to strictly adhere to UAE laws and follow government instructions.

For emergencies, the Bangladesh Embassy in Abu Dhabi can be reached at +971 56 631 7215, +971 2 446 5100, +971 54 746 3032 and +971 50 708 3636 or email:mission.abudhabi@mofa.gov.bd.

The Bangladesh Consulate General in Dubai is available at +971 50 638 6253 and +971 50 638 6353 or email: mission.dubai@mofa.gov.bd.

The Bangladesh Embassy in Baghdad has also advised nationals in Iraq to remain alert due to the war situation between Iran and Israel and the resulting tensions.

The embassy requested Bangladeshis to exercise heightened caution, avoid military installations and stay indoors or in secure places. Nationals have been urged to comply with Iraqi laws and follow any instructions issued by the government.

In emergencies, expatriates may contact the embassy via WhatsApp hotline at +964 782 788 3680 or email mission.baghdad@mofa.gov.bd.

The Bangladesh Embassy in Bahrain has issued a similar advisory, calling on expatriates to remain cautious and prepared.

For emergencies, nationals in Bahrain can contact the hotline at +973 33375155 or email mission.manama@mofa.gov.bd.

The missions have collectively emphasised the importance of remaining calm, avoiding misinformation and staying connected with official embassy channels for updates.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sun, 01 Mar 2026 08:23:44 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Chattogram gas explosion: Death 6]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/328" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/328</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The death toll from a gas line explosion in Chattogram&rsquo;s Halishahar area has risen to six after another burn victim died while undergoing treatment on Saturday evening.

Md. Shipon, 31, succumbed to his injuries around 7:00 PM at Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, according to Resident Physician Assistant Professor Dr. Shawon Bin Rahman.

The doctor said Shipon had suffered 83 percent burns along with inhalation injuries. He had been receiving treatment at ICU since the incident.

Earlier, five other members of the same family died from injuries sustained in the explosion.

The deceased include Nurjahan Akter, her son Shawon, Samir Hossain, Pakhi Akter and Sakhawat Hossain. With Shipon&rsquo;s death, the total number of fatalities has reached six.

Three other victims remain hospitalised in critical condition, the doctor added.

Earlier, the explosion occurred early Monday morning at a flat on the third floor of a six-storey building named Halima Manzil, adjacent to AC Mosque at H Block area. Accumulated gas in the kitchen is believed to have triggered the blast.

Nine members of the same family were burned in the incident. They were initially taken to a local hospital before being shifted later that day to National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery in Dhaka for advanced treatment.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sun, 01 Mar 2026 08:15:44 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Amir Khosru hospitalized]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/327" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/327</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has been admitted to United Hospital with pneumonia.

According to his personal officer Shahiduzzaman, the minister is currently undergoing treatment at the United Hospital.

His physical condition is now better than before, he added.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sun, 01 Mar 2026 08:10:36 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Ali Khamenei killed; who&#039;s next ?]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/326" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/international/326</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran&#39;s supreme leader since 1989 and sworn enemy of the West, was killed in the opening salvo of a massive US and Israeli attack that extended into a second day Sunday, as the two powers seek to topple the Islamic republic.

Iranian state television confirmed Khamenei&#39;s death early Sunday, hours after President Donald Trump announced the killing of the 86-year-old cleric he described as &quot;one of the most evil people in History.&quot;

Cheers could be heard on Tehran&#39;s streets after reports first emerged from Israel of the death of Khamenei, as plumes of black smoke hovered over the district where he usually resides, witnesses told AFP.

The attack came weeks after Iranian authorities ruthlessly put down mass protests, killing thousands.

Loud explosions again pierced Tehran in the early hours, as Trump vowed no let-up in the strikes until the fall of the Islamic republic and urged security forces to stand down.

&quot;This is the single greatest chance for the Iranian people to take back their Country,&quot; Trump said in a statement.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu similarly said to Iranians, &quot;This is your time to join forces, to overthrow the regime and to secure your future.&quot;

Iran responded to the attack with a flurry of missile and drone strikes across the Middle East, killing at least two people in Abu Dhabi and another in Tel Aviv as explosions rocked the showcase cities of Gulf Arab monarchies.

The Israeli army said that Ali Shamkhani, a top advisor to Khamenei, and the head of Iran&#39;s powerful Revolutionary Guards, General Mohammad Pakpour, were both also killed.

Along with Khamenei, Iranian media said that his daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter were killed.

One prominent survivor, Ali Larijani, head of Iran&#39;s Supreme National Security Council, vowed defiance.

&quot;The brave soldiers and the great nation of Iran will teach an unforgettable lesson to the international oppressors,&quot; he said.

Iran had already seen intense speculation on a successor to Khamenei, given his age. Upon his death, many observers expected greater power for the Revolutionary Guards, which are deeply entrenched in the Iranian economy.

Reza Pahlavi, the son of the late pro-Western shah deposed in the 1979 Islamic revolution, warned that any successor within the system would be illegitimate.

He called on Iranians to &quot;stay vigilant&quot; and then to take to the streets in massive numbers when he issues a call.

Hailing the reported demise of Khamenei, only the second supreme leader of the cleric-run state after Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, Pahlavi said, &quot;With his death, the Islamic Republic has effectively come to an end and will soon be consigned to the dustbin of history.&quot;

Pahlavi, who has spent most of his life in exile near Washington, has presented himself as a transitional figure to a secular democracy, although he does not enjoy support from all the opposition.

Iran&#39;s Red Crescent society said that at least 201 people had been killed in the strikes and more than 700 wounded.

The Iranian judiciary said one strike that hit a school in the south killed 108 people, although AFP was unable to access the site to verify the toll or the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Meanwhile in Israel, city streets stood deserted as residents took cover in shelters while the blasts of intercepted Iranian missiles reverberated overhead.

Israeli emergency services said that an Iranian missile strike killed a woman in the Tel Aviv area and that some 20 others were wounded.

Residents and AFP correspondents in the Emirati, Qatari and Bahraini capitals heard multiple rounds of explosions from Iran&#39;s retaliatory strikes.

Smoke poured from US bases in the UAE and Bahrain, home to the US Navy&#39;s Fifth Fleet.

&quot;When we heard the sounds, we cried out of fear,&quot; said Jana Hassan, a 15-year-old student who was near the strike in Bahrain. &quot;I will never forget the sound of those loud blasts.&quot;

In Abu Dhabi, the UAE&#39;s capital, two people were killed, while smoke and flames rose from Dubai&#39;s famed man-made island The Palm, with four reported injured.

Iran&#39;s Revolutionary Guards contacted ships to announce the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the vital waterway for oil from the Gulf, although it was not clear if the threat was being enforced.

Tehran residents had been going about their usual business when the strikes began. Security forces quickly flooded the streets, shops pulled down their shutters and few pedestrians risked venturing out, an AFP journalist saw.

&quot;I saw with my own eyes two Tomahawk missiles flying horizontally toward targets,&quot; a Tehran office worker told AFP before communications and internet access were cut.

It was the first US military action of this scale apparently aimed at toppling a foreign government since the 2003 invasion of Iraq.

Israel&#39;s army chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir said the operation was &quot;taking place at a completely different scale&quot; than the 12-day war it fought against Iran in June, which the US briefly joined.

An Israeli military statement said it was the largest military air raid in the history of its air force.

Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Syria, the UAE and Israel all closed their airspaces to civilian traffic, at least in part, and multiple airlines cancelled flights to the Middle East.

Trump&#39;s envoys had negotiated in Geneva on Thursday with Iran&#39;s foreign minister.

Trump said that Iran&#39;s leaders had not compromised sufficiently on its disputed nuclear program, although he made clear after the attack that the goal was regime change and not a nuclear deal.

Oman had been mediating and had on Friday reported what it called a breakthrough, with Iran said to agree not to stockpile any uranium.

Oman called Saturday for an immediate ceasefire. Iran also called on the UN Security Council, which held an emergency session Saturday and where the United States holds veto power, to act to stop the attack.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Sun, 01 Mar 2026 08:04:39 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Equal footing and mutual benefit is our approach.]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/325" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/325</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Foreign Affairs Minister (FM) Khalilur Rahman on Monday outlined the new government&#39;s approach to international relations, emphasizing that Bangladesh under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman seeks to develop partnerships with foreign nations on equal footing and mutual benefit.

Speaking to reporters at the ministry following separate meetings with several European diplomats and the United States Ambassador to Bangladesh, the minister said friendly nations have expressed strong interest in working closely with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party-led government, which assumed office on February 17.

&quot;We are sharing our foreign policy outline with Bangladesh First being its motto as we have begun meeting with foreign diplomats. We want to build mutually beneficial relations with foreign countries as co-equals,&quot; said the Foreign Minister, a former diplomat who previously served as national security adviser under the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus.

Khalilur Rahman emphasized that Bangladesh would address bilateral issues based on mutual interests while adhering to the principles of non-interference in internal affairs and respecting the freedom and sovereignty of all nations.

The minister noted that diplomats from Saudi Arabia, China, India and Pakistan also paid courtesy calls on him on Sunday, reflecting the international community&#39;s engagement with the new administration.

He expressed confidence that his government would establish a dynamic foreign policy that upholds national dignity and advances the country&#39;s interests on the global stage.PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 06:18:27 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
    </feed>
