What's happened
Bangladesh has reinstated the phrase 'valid for all countries except Israel' on its passports, reversing a 2021 decision. This move reflects the country's ongoing support for Palestine amid rising tensions following the Gaza conflict, which has resulted in significant civilian casualties.
What's behind the headline?
Context of the Decision
- The reinstatement of the passport inscription signals a reaffirmation of Bangladesh's long-standing position against Israel, particularly in light of the ongoing Gaza conflict.
- The decision follows a massive rally in Dhaka, where approximately 100,000 people demonstrated in solidarity with Gaza, highlighting the public sentiment towards the Palestinian cause.
Implications
- This move may further strain Bangladesh's diplomatic relations with Israel and its allies, particularly the United States and India, who have shown support for Israel.
- The restoration of the inscription could also influence domestic politics, as it aligns with the sentiments of various political factions in Bangladesh, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Islamist groups.
Future Outlook
- As the Gaza conflict continues, Bangladesh's stance may evolve, particularly if civilian casualties rise further. The government will likely face pressure to maintain its support for Palestine, which could lead to more significant diplomatic repercussions.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports that Nilima Afroze, a deputy secretary at the home ministry, confirmed the directive to restore the passport inscription, stating it was issued last week. The Times of Israel emphasizes that the reinstatement reflects the public's strong support for Palestine, demonstrated during a recent rally in Dhaka. Meanwhile, the South China Morning Post notes that the Gaza conflict has resulted in significant casualties, further fueling public sentiment against Israel. Each source highlights the political and social implications of this decision, showcasing the complex dynamics at play in Bangladesh's foreign policy.
How we got here
The phrase was removed during the tenure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who clarified that Bangladesh's stance on Israel remained unchanged. The recent directive to restore the inscription comes amid heightened public support for Palestine.
Go deeper
- What prompted the change in the passport inscription?
- How has the public reacted to this decision?
- What are the potential diplomatic consequences for Bangladesh?
Common question
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What Does Bangladesh's Passport Inscription Change Mean for Israel?
Bangladesh has recently reinstated the phrase 'valid for all countries except Israel' on its passports, a significant policy shift that reflects the country's stance on Palestine amid ongoing tensions. This decision has sparked various reactions both domestically and internationally, raising questions about its implications for Bangladesh-Israel relations and the broader geopolitical landscape.
More on these topics
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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Bangladesh, officially the People's Republic of Bangladesh, is a country in South Asia. It is the eighth-most populous country in the world, with a population exceeding 162 million people.
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Gaza may refer to: