Iran ‘hurt’ by Bangladesh’s response to US-Israel attack

Iran has expressed dissatisfaction with Bangladesh’s official response following the recent joint attack by the United States and Israel, with its envoy in Dhaka saying Tehran expected a stronger and clearer position.

Speaking at a press conference at the Iranian Embassy in Dhaka on Wednesday, April 1, Iranian Ambassador to Bangladesh Jalil Rahimi Jahanabadi said Iran was “hurt” by Dhaka’s statement, which he described as lacking a direct condemnation of the attacks.

“We are hurt by the statement of the Bangladesh government. It should have been clearer. As a Muslim country and a brotherly nation, we expected Bangladesh to condemn the aggressive powers. That did not happen, and it is painful for us,” he said.

Responding to a question, the ambassador said Iran would not send any formal letter of protest to Dhaka. However, he indicated that the issue would be raised during his next meeting with Tarique Rahman.

Rahimi noted that Bangladesh’s statement expressed concern but stopped short of explicitly condemning what he termed “aggression.” He urged Dhaka to take a more decisive stance, pointing out that countries like Pakistan and Turkey, as well as Spain, had clearly condemned the attacks and called for dialogue.

“Our expectation is simple – when a country violates the UN Charter and attacks another, others should clearly condemn it. We are only asking for condemnation of the actions by the United States and Israel,” he said.

At the same time, the ambassador acknowledged Bangladesh’s constraints but stressed that, as a member of the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, it should take a clearer position on such international issues.

He also highlighted that countries like Russia and China had condemned the attacks.

Despite the criticism, Rahimi reaffirmed Iran’s interest in maintaining strong ties with Bangladesh, describing it as a “friend and brotherly country.” He said Iran is willing to assist Bangladeshi nationals in the country if needed, particularly in facilitating their safe return.

He welcomed any potential peace initiatives by Bangladesh in the Middle East, as well as mediation efforts by countries such as Egypt.

Addressing the broader conflict, the ambassador said Iran’s actions were defensive in nature and targeted US bases in the region, not neighbouring Muslim countries. He expressed regret over civilian casualties but blamed countries hosting US bases for enabling the situation.

“We are saddened by the loss of innocent lives. But we are in a position of self-defence. Responsibility lies with those who allowed foreign military bases on their soil,” he said.

Rahimi also noted that he had recently met the Prime Minister of Bangladesh during an Eid event, where the discussion remained cordial and limited to general matters.