The U.S. State Department has issued a warning to Americans, urging them to avoid traveling to Bangladesh due to escalating civil unrest, crime, and terrorism in the South Asian country. This advisory comes after Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country in a helicopter as a mob of protesters breached the palace.
The State Department updated its travel advisory on Monday, ordering all non-emergency U.S. government employees and their families to leave the country. The advisory stated, “Travelers should not travel to Bangladesh due to ongoing civil unrest in Dhaka. Violent clashes have occurred in the city of Dhaka, its neighboring areas, and throughout Bangladesh, with the Bangladeshi Army deployed nationwide.”
The situation in Bangladesh has become increasingly volatile, with Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport temporarily pausing operations on Monday. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines to confirm the status of future flights due to the unrest in the country.
The advisory also highlighted the lack of infrastructure and support from the Bangladeshi government, warning that the U.S. government’s ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Bangladesh may be limited.
The unrest in Bangladesh culminated in the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday, ending her 15-year rule. Thousands of protesters stormed her residence, prompting her escape by military helicopter to neighboring India.
The protests initially began as a movement against job quotas in government positions but evolved into a campaign to oust Hasina. The violent demonstrations have resulted in nearly 300 deaths, leading to the military taking control of the country and announcing plans to form an interim government.
In response to the political turmoil, Bangladesh’s president dissolved parliament on Tuesday, paving the way for elections to select a new prime minister.
The situation in Bangladesh remains fluid and unpredictable, with the State Department’s travel advisory serving as a cautionary measure for Americans considering travel to the country. It is essential for travelers to stay informed about the developments in Bangladesh and heed the warnings issued by the U.S. government to ensure their safety and well-being.
