Nationwide anti-Israel protests in Bangladesh turned violent on Monday after an unruly mob targeted Israeli-linked businesses like Bata, KFC and Pizza Hut in different parts of the country. Police have arrested at least 49 people from across the South Asian nation in connection with vandalism of shops and businesses during yesterday’s demonstrations.
Reports of vandalism came from Bogra, Sylhet and Cox’s Bazar and areas, after people from different walks of life, including political, social, cultural, and religious organisations, along with students and professionals, took to the streets in protest demanding an immediate end to Israeli aggression in Gaza.
A mob attacked a Bata showroom in Bogra and a KFC restaurant in Sylhet. In Cox’s Bazar, a KFC and a Pizza Hut outlet were targeted by protesters who pelted stones at the establishments.
The protests were also held near the US Embassy in Dhaka, where security was increased, anticipating the gathering. Anti-American slogans were also heard during the protests, including some targeting US President Donald Trump.
Protesters with Palestine flags, shouting pro-Palestine slogans, were also spotted at the protests.
Following the violence, Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam instructed authorities to arrest the individuals responsible for vandalism across the country. Police said it is identifying culprits based on the video footage of the rallies and any criminal acts under the guise of protest won’t be tolerated.
“We have video footage of the attackers. They are being identified and will be arrested immediately. Police teams are currently working on this,” the police said.
“The government does not impede any lawful protests. However, we will not tolerate any criminal acts under the guise of protest,” a top police officer added.
Political Tension
While the interim government led by Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus condemned the violence, ousted Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League termed the developments as a sign of the alarming rise of extremism in Bangladesh.
“This is more than a political crisis- it’s a national emergency. Bangladesh risks becoming the next Afghanistan if the international community remains silent,” the Awami League said in a statement after the violence.
Hasina’s party demanded accountability from the Yunus-led administration and said the rule of law must be restored.
