The government of Bangladesh, led by MD Yunus, has strongly protested the remarks made by US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard regarding the country’s situation. Late on Monday night, the Chief Advisor’s Press Wing issued a statement condemning Gabbard’s comments as “misleading.”
During her visit to India, Gabbard, in an interview in New Delhi, raised concerns about alleged persecution of minorities in Bangladesh. She also claimed that efforts were being made to establish an Islamic caliphate in the country and expressed concerns over Islamic extremism and terrorism. According to her, US President Donald Trump was deeply concerned about the issue, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also supported Trump’s stance on Bangladesh’s situation.
Gabbard’s remarks sparked strong reactions in Bangladesh, while India welcomed them. Senior officials in New Delhi suggested that her statement reinforced India’s position on Bangladesh.
Facing mounting pressure both domestically and internationally, the Yunus government initially sought to avoid a direct confrontation with the Trump administration. However, hardline Islamic groups, including Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, exerted significant pressure on the government, demanding an official response. Sources suggest that fears of potential US sanctions on Bangladesh for allegedly failing to take adequate measures against terrorism influenced the government’s initial cautious stance. Intelligence agencies also warned that a lack of response could trigger violent protests by extremist groups.
As a result, late on Monday night, the Chief Advisor’s Press Wing issued an official statement addressing Gabbard’s remarks. However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was not directly involved in the response.
In its statement, the Bangladesh government expressed “deep concern and disappointment” over Gabbard’s comments. The government rejected her claims of religious persecution and denied any efforts to establish an Islamic caliphate in the country. It emphasized that Bangladesh is historically committed to peaceful and inclusive Islamic practices and has played a crucial role in combating extremism and terrorism.
The government asserted that Gabbard’s portrayal of Bangladesh was “unjust and exaggerated,” urging the international community not to form opinions based on misconceptions. However, the statement did not address specific incidents of minority persecution or counterterrorism measures taken since August 5 of the previous year.
The developments have raised questions about the future trajectory of US-Bangladesh relations in light of the controversy.
