US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce has said Washington condemns any act of violence directed toward minority communities in any country and welcomes measures taken by Bangladesh’s interim government to ensure safety and security for all.
The issue of Bangladesh came during Wednesday's US State Department briefing, Bruce addressed questions regarding concerns raised by US Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard.
A journalist asked about remarks made by Gabbard, who warned of a "growing threat" of extremism in Bangladesh and efforts to establish an Islamic caliphate. The journalist mentioned that Muhammad Yunus, head of the interim government, denied these concerns.
"Muhammad Yunus has vehemently denied these concern, calling them untrue. However, just yesterday, a large pro-caliphate rally took place in Dhaka University. Raising serious concern about the situation. Given the US Government ongoing concern, US considering taking severe sanctions such as sanction against Yunus government?", the journalist asked.
Bruce responded by saying: “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.”
She did not directly address whether sanctions were being considered.
Gabbard previously stated in an interview with NDTV World that the US is deeply concerned about the situation in Bangladesh, particularly regarding the persecution of religious minorities.
The interim government later responded to these remarks, saying that linking Bangladesh to the idea of an "Islamist caliphate" is groundless and undermines efforts toward peace.
