The United States has firmly rejected claims of its involvement in the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh, including the violent protests that have resulted in hundreds of deaths. In a media briefing on Monday, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed the allegations head-on.
Jean-Pierre stated, “We have had no involvement at all. Any reports or rumors that the United States government was involved in these events are simply false. That is not true.” She emphasized that the future of the Bangladeshi government should be determined by the people of Bangladesh, asserting that the US stance is one of non-interference.
Regarding recent protests outside the White House over violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, Jean-Pierre reiterated the US’s commitment to monitoring the situation closely. She noted, “We are certainly going to continue monitoring the situation. I don’t have anything else to add beyond that.”
The White House Press Secretary also highlighted President Joe Biden’s consistent stance on human rights issues, stressing that the President has been vocal both publicly and privately about such matters. However, Jean-Pierre did not provide specific details about any upcoming engagement related to the situation in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh has been experiencing significant political unrest, particularly following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5. The protests initially began as student-led demonstrations against a quota system for government jobs but evolved into broader anti-government protests. This shift in political dynamics has contributed to a volatile environment in the country.
The protests have sparked violence, particularly targeting minorities, leading to numerous deaths and displacement. The situation has prompted a large protest outside the White House last Friday, where demonstrators carried American and Bangladeshi flags and held posters demanding the protection of Bangladeshi minorities. The protesters, including activists from human rights organizations and members of the Bangladeshi diaspora, chanted slogans such as “We want justice” and called for an end to the violence.
The violence has also garnered international attention. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern for the safety of Hindus and other minority communities in Bangladesh. In a post on X, Modi extended his best wishes to Professor Muhammad Yunus and called for a return to normalcy, stressing India’s commitment to working with Bangladesh towards peace and security.
Thousands of Bangladeshi Hindus have reportedly fled to neighboring India to escape the violence. Hindus, who constitute about eight per cent of Bangladesh’s population, have traditionally supported Hasina’s Awami League party. The recent upheaval and violent clashes between protesters and security forces have exacerbated the situation, leading to increased migration and international scrutiny.
US lawmakers have also weighed in on the crisis. Republican Congressman Pat Fallon and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi have voiced their concerns regarding the reported violence against minorities in Bangladesh, reflecting broader bipartisan interest in the situation.
As the situation in Bangladesh remains fluid, the US government’s denial of involvement and its focus on monitoring the crisis highlights ongoing international tensions and concerns about the treatment of minorities. The global response, including statements from various leaders and protests in the US, underscores the widespread impact of the crisis and the call for a peaceful resolution.