The United States is deeply concerned about the situation in Bangladesh, US Intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard told NDTV World today, speaking about the persecution of religious minorities. She said that the Trump administration is focused and committed to defeat “Islamist terrorism” globally.
In an exclusive interview to NDTV World, United States’ Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, expressed her concerns about the persecution, killing, and abuse of religious minorities like Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and others in Bangladesh. She emphasized that this has been a major area of concern for the US government and President Trump’s administration.
Gabbard mentioned that the new Cabinet under Donald Trump has initiated talks with the interim government in Bangladesh to address the rise of Islamic extremism and terrorist elements in the country. She highlighted the threat posed by extremist groups aiming to establish an “Islamic Caliphate” and the violent means they employ to achieve their objectives.
The US Intelligence chief reiterated President Trump’s commitment to identifying and defeating the ideology driving Islamist terrorism. She emphasized the need to combat radical Islamic terrorism globally to ensure the safety and security of people from all religious backgrounds.
Apart from addressing religious persecution in Bangladesh, concerns have also been raised about the growing collaboration between Bangladesh and Pakistan’s ISI. Indian Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi expressed apprehensions about the presence of ISI officials in Bangladesh areas near India’s border regions, particularly the Siliguri corridor. He stressed the importance of preventing anti-India elements from using Bangladeshi soil to launch terrorist activities in India.
During a meeting between PM Modi and President Trump in Washington, the US President expressed confidence in Prime Minister Modi’s ability to handle the situation in Bangladesh. He acknowledged the efforts of the Indian government in addressing the challenges posed by terrorism and extremism in the region.
The discussions between the US and Bangladesh underscore the shared commitment to combatting terrorism and extremism while safeguarding the rights and freedoms of religious minorities in the country. The collaboration between nations to address these challenges reflects the importance of international cooperation in promoting peace and security in the region.
