Dhaka: Expressing deep sorrow over the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a targeted attack, Bangladesh on Monday emphasized that ensuring the safety and security of more than six million Bangladeshis living in the Middle East remains its top priority. “Our embassies in the countries concerned have been asked to issue appropriate advisories for our nationals to remain vigilant and strictly follow the guidance issued by the respective host governments,” stated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman convened a meeting in the afternoon to discuss the situation in the Middle East, as Bangladesh remains deeply concerned about the safety and security of its nationals. The meeting was attended by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam, and representatives from relevant ministries. The Foreign Minister is scheduled to brief the media at 4:30 PM today.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in a statement expressed that the government is “saddened to learn” of the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, describing it as a violation of international law and norms. Bangladesh extended heartfelt condolences to the people of Iran and emphasized that conflict brings no solution, advocating for dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to international law to resolve disputes.
The government of Bangladesh also expressed deep sorrow over the loss of two Bangladeshi nationals and injuries sustained by seven others due to missile and drone attacks in different parts of the Middle East. In the United Arab Emirates, Saleh Ahmed, a Bangladeshi national from Baralekha, Sylhet, tragically lost his life in Ajman due to debris from an aerial attack on a civilian installation. The Embassy of Bangladesh in the UAE is coordinating with local authorities for the repatriation of his remains.
Additionally, one Bangladeshi national was killed and three others injured in Bahrain. The Bangladesh Mission in Manama is in contact with local authorities regarding the incident. In Kuwait, four Bangladeshi nationals sustained injuries following a drone attack near the civilian airport. They have received medical treatment and are in stable condition, with the Bangladesh Embassy in Kuwait maintaining regular contact.
Furthermore, the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation vessel Banglar Joyjatra is stranded at Jebel Ali Port in the UAE. The Embassy is in communication with the vessel’s captain, and all crew members remain safe. The government of Bangladesh continues to express deep concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East and is closely monitoring developments.