US Watching Bangladesh’s Efforts To Curb Minority Violence: State Department

United States has said that it is actively monitoring the situation in Bangladesh regarding violence against minorities.

Tammy Bruce, spokesperson for the US Department of State, denounced acts of violence targeting minorities in Bangladesh during her press briefing on Wednesday (19 March).

Responding to questions about US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard’s recent remarks on Bangladesh, Bruce stated that the US welcomed efforts by the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government to reduce instances of such violence, NDTV reported.

"We condemn any instances of violence or intolerance directed toward members of minority communities in any country," Bruce said.

She added that the US State Department has "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 what we expect. And that will be what continues," Bruce said.

US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has recently warned about Bangladesh, the growing threat of Islamist extremism and effort to establish an Islamic caliphate.

However, the Bangladesh interim government has expressed deep concern over Tulsi Gabbard's remarks on an "Islamist caliphate," stating that her comments are both "misleading and damaging" to the country's image and reputation.

"We note with deep concern and distress the remarks made by DNI Tulsi Gabbard, in which she alleged "persecution and killing" of religious minorities in Bangladesh and that "the threat of Islamic terrorists" in the country is "rooted" in the "ideology and objective" to "rule and govern with an Islamist caliphate."

Describing the remarks as "misleading and damaging," the Bangladesh government claimed that the country’s Islamic traditions had long been inclusive and peaceful.

The statement, issued late Monday, also claimed that Bangladesh has made "remarkable" progress in combating extremism and terrorism.

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