US Urges Bangladesh to Uphold Human Rights Amid Rising Extremism

Washington, D.C. — The United States government is calling on the interim administration of Bangladesh to uphold human rights and treat its citizens justly amidst increasing threats from extremist groups, State Department officials stated on March 25.

During a press briefing, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized the expectations for Bangladesh, particularly in light of warnings from its military leadership about imminent Islamist attacks. “We expect every country, certainly Bangladesh and others, to follow the rules of human rights and to be fair regarding the behavior their own citizens expect from their government,” Bruce declared.

Bruce’s comments come after U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard expressed grave concerns over the rise in religious intolerance and violence against minority communities, including Hindus and Buddhists, in Bangladesh. Addressing the situation during her recent trip to India, Gabbard highlighted the risk of extremist factions aiming to establish an Islamic caliphate.

“This is a critical moment for Bangladesh,” Gabbard said. “The U.S. will continue to advocate for the protection of minority groups and uphold their right to worship freely.”

In response, the interim government of Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, criticized Gabbard’s remarks as misleading and damaging. In a statement, they noted, “This linkage to an ‘Islamic caliphate’ undermines the efforts of countless individuals in Bangladesh who have worked to ensure peace and stability.”

Reflecting on the situation, Bruce reiterated the U.S. commitment to supporting nations in upholding human rights. “When we consider nations as friends, we expect them to reinforce human rights standards,” she added. “It’s essential for the diplomatic relationship we maintain.”

The U.S. remains vigilant about the challenges in Bangladesh, monitoring reports of increased extremist violence. Bruce’s remarks exist within the context of broader global concerns about terrorism and the need for governments to protect their citizens from extremist ideologies.

As the situation develops, the State Department continues to engage with the Bangladeshi government, promoting conversations about human rights and stability in a region affected by increasing violence.