Washington, D.C. – The U.S. State Department has addressed the recent wave of violence in Bangladesh, where Islamist extremist mobs have unleashed brutal attacks over the past 48 hours, destroying homes and claiming the lives of innocent civilians. Among the most shocking developments is the reported demolition of the historic residence at 32 Dhanmondi, the home of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of the Nation. This attack on one of Bangladesh’s most significant landmarks has sent shockwaves through the country, raising serious concerns about the escalating security crisis under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.
The violence appears to be targeted, with reports indicating that the mobs are specifically attacking properties of former Awami League officials. These developments have led to accusations that the interim government is not only failing to curb the violence but may be complicit in these attacks. The worsening law-and-order situation has put the international community on high alert, with concerns mounting over the future stability of Bangladesh.
US State Department Urges Restraint and Engagement with Interim Government
In response to an email sent by renowned journalist Dastagir Jahangir, U.S. Bureau Chief of Press Xpress and Editor of The Voice News, regarding the recent wave of violence, the State Department press wing replied by mentioning the U.S. response to the crisis. The journalist noted that Yunus had strongly opposed the election of Donald Trump in 2016, prompting speculation on whether the Trump administration would intervene to support the Bangladeshi people amid the crisis.
In response, a State Department official acknowledged the ongoing unrest in Dhaka and urged all parties to exercise restraint.
“We are monitoring reports of localized protests and targeted destruction of property of former Awami League officials in Dhaka. We encourage protestors to demonstrate peacefully and for the Bangladeshi Interim Government to protect human rights and fundamental freedoms as it works to maintain law and order. We will continue to engage with the Interim Government as it charts a secure and democratic future for Bangladesh.”
Concerns Over Interim Government’s Role in Violence
The interim government of Muhammad Yunus is facing growing criticism for its failure to curb extremist violence. Reports suggest that instead of enforcing law and order, the authorities have been ineffective or even complicit in the targeted attacks. The destruction of homes, businesses, and the historic 32 Dhanmondi residence—a national symbol of Bangladesh’s independence—has sparked outrage across the country.
Critics argue that the government’s inaction has emboldened extremist groups, who are now operating with impunity. The targeted destruction of former Awami League leaders’ properties suggests a political dimension to the violence, raising concerns about whether the country’s law enforcement agencies are allowing or facilitating these attacks.
International human rights organizations have also raised alarm, calling for swift action to prevent further bloodshed. Many observers fear that if the situation continues unchecked, it could escalate into a broader crisis, threatening Bangladesh’s stability.
A Divided Bangladesh: Political and Religious Tensions Grow
The crisis has deepened the already fragile political landscape in Bangladesh. The Awami League, which ruled the country until recently, has long been a target of Islamist extremist groups due to its secular policies and historical ties to India. With the interim government failing to protect its former members and allowing Islamist mobs to act unchecked, fears of a violent power shift are growing.
The destruction of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s residence at 32 Dhanmondi is particularly significant, as it represents a direct attack on the legacy of Bangladesh’s founding leader. Many in Bangladesh and abroad see this act as a symbolic attempt to erase history and undermine the values of independence and secularism.
This deteriorating security situation has placed Bangladesh at a crossroads. With extremist violence on the rise, political tensions at an all-time high, and international pressure mounting, the country’s future appears increasingly uncertain.
Will the US Take Further Action?
While the State Department’s response emphasizes diplomatic engagement, it remains unclear whether the Trump administration will take any direct action to support pro-democracy forces in Bangladesh. The question posed in the email suggests that there is interest in Washington in addressing the crisis more forcefully, especially given Yunus’s past criticisms of Trump.
For now, the U.S. continues to watch closely, urging peace while keeping its options open. The coming days will be critical in determining whether Bangladesh’s interim government can restore order or if the situation will continue to spiral out of control.
This remains a developing story—more updates to follow.