Dastagir Jahangir, the Editor, thevoice.news
During a recent press briefing on March 24, 2025, a U.S. government official, Ms. Tammy Bruce, addressed concerns regarding security threats and press freedom in Bangladesh. The questions posed highlighted two key issues: the potential rise of Islamist extremist attacks in Bangladesh and the treatment of journalists under the government of Muhammad Yunus.
Counterterrorism Efforts in Bangladesh
Dastagir Jahangir, Editor of The Voice News, asked U.S. State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce about recent warnings issued by the Bangladesh Army Chief regarding imminent Islamist extremist attacks in the country. He questioned how the U.S., given its strong commitment to counterterrorism, plans to prevent Bangladesh from becoming another Afghanistan.
In response, Ms. Bruce emphasized the importance of diplomatic engagement in addressing global security concerns. She reaffirmed that the U.S. government remains committed to counterterrorism and is working closely with allied nations, including Bangladesh, to ensure regional stability. While she refrained from disclosing specific security measures, she underlined that the U.S. is continuously engaged in intelligence sharing, counterterrorism training programs, and capacity-building initiatives with Bangladeshi law enforcement agencies.
Furthermore, Ms. Bruce stressed that the Biden administration seeks to counter extremist threats through a multifaceted approach, including supporting economic development, strengthening governance, and promoting education to prevent radicalization. She also highlighted ongoing cooperation with international organizations and regional partners to curb the financing of terrorist networks operating in South Asia
Press Freedom and Journalists’ Rights
The discussion then shifted toward press freedom, as Dastagir Jahangir raised concerns regarding the alleged unlawful imprisonment of journalists under the administration of Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus. He pressed Ms. Bruce on what actions the U.S. government is taking to address these violations and uphold press freedom in Bangladesh.
Ms. Bruce reiterated the U.S. government’s unwavering commitment to upholding human rights and press freedom worldwide. She emphasized that the Biden administration expects all allied nations, including Bangladesh, to adhere to democratic principles and ensure fair treatment of journalists and media personnel.
Without addressing specific cases, Ms. Bruce reaffirmed that human rights remain a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy. She indicated that the U.S. government is actively engaging with the Bangladeshi authorities through diplomatic channels to advocate for the protection of journalists and to ensure they can operate without fear of persecution or state repression.
Additionally, Ms. Bruce mentioned that the U.S. continues to monitor the situation in Bangladesh closely and collaborates with human rights organizations to document press freedom violations. She underscored that Washington is prepared to take appropriate measures, including sanctions or policy adjustments, if significant deterioration in press freedoms persists.
Broader Implications and U.S. Strategy in South Asia
The press briefing also provided insight into the broader U.S. strategy in South Asia, particularly its diplomatic approach in balancing counterterrorism efforts while promoting democracy and press freedom. Analysts suggest that the Biden administration’s cautious yet firm stance on Bangladesh reflects Washington’s broader geopolitical priorities, including maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region and countering Chinese influence in South Asia.
While Ms. Bruce did not outline immediate punitive actions, her remarks signaled Washington’s reliance on diplomatic pressure and engagement to promote security and human rights in Bangladesh. The administration remains committed to fostering stronger bilateral relations while urging Bangladesh to uphold democratic values, protect press freedom, and enhance its counterterrorism measures through cooperation with international allies.
As the situation unfolds, the global community, including human rights organizations and media watchdogs, will closely watch Bangladesh’s response to these concerns. The U.S. is expected to maintain its diplomatic engagement while assessing further actions to ensure that Bangladesh adheres to its commitments to democracy, security, and human rights.