'We're watching': US to Bangladesh on attacks on minorities
What's the story
The White House has said that the United States appreciates the actions taken by Bangladesh's interim administration to "ensure safety and security for all" after remarks by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard stirred a storm.
"We welcome measures taken by Bangladesh's interim government to ensure safety and security for all. That's what we're watching, that's what we expect, and that will continue," US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated.
Twitter Post
'We condemn violence'
#WATCH | "We condemn any instances of violence or intolerance directed toward members of minority communities in any country and have welcomed measures taken by Bangladesh's interim government to ensure safety and security for all in Bangladesh. That's what we're watching. That's… pic.twitter.com/oxXgIL6BBW
— ANI (@ANI) March 19, 2025
US official's remarks
Gabbard's comments spark controversy
In an interview with NDTV, Gabbard stated that violence against minorities in Bangladesh, along with the threat posed by Islamist extremists, stems from an "ideology and objective to rule and govern with an Islamist Caliphate."
"The long-time unfortunate persecution and killing and abuse of religious minorities - Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Catholics and others - has been a major area of concern for the US government and President Trump and his administration," she said.
Official response
Bangladesh responds to Gabbard's comments
Her comments drew strong criticism from the Bangladesh government.
The office of Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus released a statement criticizing Gabbard's remarks. It called her comments "misleading and damaging" to the country's image.
It added such comments are unfair to the whole nation.
"This statement is misleading and harms Bangladesh's image." It reiterated the country's dedication to fighting extremism and terrorism with the international community, including through law enforcement, social reforms, and counterterrorism.