The Bangladeshi government has ordered immigration authorities to reinstate the phrase “This passport is valid for all countries of the world except Israel” on all electronic passports. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, this policy shift aligns with the nation’s foreign policy, public sentiment, and its official support for the Palestinian cause, as reported by Anadolu Agency.
Diplomatic Stance and Passport Policy
Bangladesh maintains no formal diplomatic relations with Israel and does not recognize the state. By reintroducing the exclusionary text, the government is reverting to a policy that was in place during 2020 under the administration of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
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Revisions to Electronic Passport Branding
Beyond the Israel-related policy, the Ministry of Home Affairs has initiated a broader redesign of the electronic passport. Authorities have been directed to remove imagery and symbols associated with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding leader of Bangladesh. These changes follow a period of intense political transition in the country.
The redesign also includes the addition of commemorative markers honoring individuals killed during the civil unrest of July and August 2024. During that period, widespread protests erupted calling for the resignation of then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who had led the country for over a decade. Official records and reports indicate that the ensuing crackdown resulted in approximately 1,400 deaths and tens of thousands of injuries. Hasina currently remains in exile in India.
Future Trends in Regional Geopolitics
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does this policy affect Bangladeshi citizens’ travel to other countries?
No, the restriction applies exclusively to Israel. Bangladeshi passport holders remain subject to the individual visa requirements of all other nations. - Why was the imagery of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman removed?
The Ministry of Home Affairs has directed the removal of these symbols as part of a revision of the passport’s visual design following the political shifts of 2024. - Is this the first time Bangladesh has used this passport language?
No, the policy was previously implemented in 2020; the current order marks a return to that earlier policy framework.
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