In anticipation of Eid-ul-Adha, the Bangladesh central bank has released new currency notes of Taka 1,000, Taka 50, and Taka 20. These notes replace the image of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman with depictions of nationally significant establishments and scenic locations. The new notes are available in limited quantities at the Motijheel office and will be distributed more widely soon.
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Consumer confidence in the U.S. rebounded significantly in May, ending a five-month decline. The Consumer Confidence Index rose to 98, driven by easing inflation, steady job growth, and subsiding the tariff concerns. This surge in optimism could boost consumer spending and overall economic activity, signaling a potential turnaround in the near-term economic outlook.
Spain's Foreign Minister, Jose Manuel Albares, has urged for an arms embargo against Israel to end the Gaza conflict, suggesting targeted sanctions on those obstructing a two-state solution. Spain also proposed suspending the EU-Israel trade partnership. Amidst mounting international pressure, Albares emphasized the Palestinian people's right to peace and security, mirroring that of Israelis.
A US Marine, Sgt Maj Jody Armentrout, heroically subdued a disruptive passenger attempting to open an emergency exit on an All Nippon Airways flight from Japan to Texas. Armentrout's quick action, along with assistance from another passenger, led to the man's restraint and the flight's diversion to Seattle. Another passenger was removed for damaging a bathroom door.
Iran summoned Austria's charge d'affaires following Austria's intelligence report, which alleged Iran's pursuit of atomic weapons, labeling the report as "fake." This dispute occurs amidst ongoing delicate negotiations between Iran and the United States regarding Iran's nuclear program. Iran vehemently denies seeking nuclear weapons, asserting its program is solely for civilian purposes, despite IAEA concerns about uranium enrichment levels.
A second group of white South Africans has arrived in the United States under a controversial refugee program initiated by the Trump administration. This program, fast-tracked after the suspension of other refugee initiatives, aims to resettle white South Africans alleging persecution, a claim the South African government denies. The US Embassy is reviewing applications from those interested in resettlement, with thousands having already applied.
FEMA's new head, David Richardson, sparked controversy by seemingly unaware of the US hurricane season during a staff briefing, raising concerns about the agency's readiness. Despite a Homeland Security spokesperson claiming it was a joke and affirming preparedness, the remark, coupled with staff departures and reduced preparations, drew sharp criticism from Democratic leaders.
A domestic tourist climbed over a fence and jumped into a section of the world-famous display of China's Terracotta Army, damaging two ancient clay warriors, authorities said Saturday. He "pushed and pulled" the clay warriors and two were "damaged to varying degrees", the statement said.
A photo went viral claiming to show Xi Mingze, daughter of Chinese President Xi Jinping. The image was from a 2018 UN event. An X user discovered the woman was not Xi Mingze. She was identified as Fi (Catherine) Chen. The older woman was Noelle Kwok. Media outlets used the photo without verifying. This incident highlights the risk of misinformation.
President Zelenskyy is meeting Chancellor Merz in Berlin as Ukraine seeks more military aid amidst intensified Russian attacks. Germany, a key military supporter, has lifted range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine. Recent heavy drone and missile attacks have targeted both Ukrainian and Russian regions, disrupting infrastructure and causing damage, highlighting the conflict's escalation.