The United States has raised alarms about the deteriorating security situation in Bangladesh, issuing a renewed travel advisory on April 18. The advisory warns US citizens to “reconsider travel” to Bangladesh, citing heightened risks of violence, terrorism, and political unrest across the country. Notably, the US has also imposed a ‘Level 4: Do Not Travel’ warning specifically for the Chittagong Hill Tracts, including the districts of Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban, due to the escalating threats of communal violence, terrorism, and kidnappings in the region.
Political Chaos and Rising Terrorism Across Bangladesh
Bangladesh is grappling with an increasingly volatile political environment, marked by widespread unrest and targeted violence. The advisory comes in the wake of mounting attacks on minorities and opposition political leaders especially of individuals from Bangladesh Awami League. The US has emphasized that these areas have become increasingly dangerous, with terrorist groups operating freely and taking advantage of the state’s weak security apparatus. The warning reflects the growing concerns over Bangladesh’s ability to control the situation as political violence escalates under the current interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.
US State Department Imposes Travel Restrictions on Diplomats
The situation has prompted the US State Department to issue strict travel restrictions for its employees. All non-essential travel by US diplomats to the Chittagong Hill Tracts is now banned. The department has also advised against all travel to these regions unless prior approval from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Home Affairs is obtained. The US government has made it clear that the risk of violence in these areas is too high to justify any travel.
Communal Violence and Attacks on Religious Minorities
The US advisory comes amid disturbing reports of escalating violence against religious minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh. One of the most alarming incidents occurred in Dinajpur district, where a prominent Hindu leader, Bhabesh Chandra Roy, was brutally murdered. Roy, a well-known figure in the Hindu community and vice president of the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad, was found dead on April 17 under violent circumstances, highlighting the growing danger faced by religious minorities in the country.
India has strongly condemned the murder, with its Foreign Ministry calling on the Bangladeshi government to ensure the safety of minorities and take immediate action against those responsible. The Indian government has also criticized the increasing pattern of attacks against Hindus, reiterating its concern over the systematic persecution of religious minorities in Bangladesh.
Terrorism and Crime Rampant in Major Cities
The travel advisory further underscores the rising threat of terrorism and crime in major cities across Bangladesh, including the capital Dhaka. The US State Department has warned its citizens of increased risks of terrorist violence, muggings, assaults, and burglaries. These cities have seen a rise in violent clashes, particularly in the wake of ongoing protests and political rallies, many of which have turned violent.
The advisory also highlights the risks of illegal drug trafficking and organized crime, making urban areas unsafe for foreign nationals. The US government has specifically cautioned against engaging in any public gatherings, as even peaceful protests have the potential to escalate into violent confrontations.
Limited US Consular Support Due to Travel Restrictions
In light of the security situation, the US government has stated that its ability to assist American citizens in Bangladesh is severely limited, especially outside Dhaka. Due to the ongoing travel restrictions, the US embassy is unable to provide the level of consular support it normally would in other countries. The US has urged its citizens to remain cautious and well-informed, particularly in rural and conflict-affected regions, where infrastructure is lacking, and emergency response capabilities are limited.
Violent Anti-Israel Protests Fuel Further Instability
The US advisory also coincides with the eruption of violent anti-Israel protests in Dhaka, where thousands have gathered in opposition to Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The protests, which have turned violent in some areas, have targeted businesses perceived to have links to Israel, leading to property damage and disruptions in daily life. Mobs have clashed with police, and incidents of vandalism and violence have been reported in key business areas of the capital.
The growing unrest, coupled with the rise of religious extremism and political violence, has raised alarm across the international community. The US State Department’s travel advisory serves as a stark reminder of the dangerous and unpredictable environment in Bangladesh.
India Voices Concern Over Bangladesh’s Minority Safety
In addition to the US, India has expressed grave concerns over the safety of religious minorities in Bangladesh. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently raised the issue of minority safety during discussions with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus at the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. India’s calls for stronger protection measures come as both countries deal with increasing communal tensions and acts of violence targeting minorities in Bangladesh.
A Fragile Future for Bangladesh
The United States’ travel advisory highlights the growing instability in Bangladesh, with terrorism, political violence, and attacks on religious minorities becoming a troubling trend. The US government has urged all American citizens to reconsider travel to Bangladesh, with a special emphasis on the high-risk areas of Chittagong Hill Tracts. As political instability deepens, Bangladesh faces a long road ahead to restore order and security, and the world is closely watching how the government will address these escalating challenges.
