Diplomatic Correspondent :
The recent sudden attacks by Israel on Iran, followed by an immediate retreat, have heightened tensions across the Middle East, affecting numerous countries, including Bangladesh, which relies heavily on this region for oil, labor markets, and business opportunities.
In the aftermath of these hostilities, widespread protests have erupted globally, denouncing Israel’s actions.
The situation in the Middle East remains a pressing concern for Bangladesh, given that tens of thousands of Bangladeshi workers contribute significantly to remittance earnings by engaging in various sectors there.
Historical reports indicate that any instability in the Middle East often leads to rising oil prices in the international market, ultimately impacting numerous countries, particularly in South Asia.
The Israeli attacks have already sparked fears of an oil price surge, compounding existing economic uncertainties that have been exacerbated by previous conflicts in the region.
On October 21, oil prices began to rise amid speculation regarding a potential Israeli military response to Iran, driven by reports of Iran’s missile strike on October 1.
The international benchmark, Brent crude, increased by 0.4 per cent to $73.13 per barrel, while the US benchmark, West Texas Intermediate, rose by 0.5 per cent to $69.09 per barrel.
The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) recently reported that Iran boosted its oil production by 21,000 barrels per day in September, reaching a total of 3.31 million barrels-marking the largest increase among OPEC members for that month.
Experts have expressed concern over the potential for escalated conflict between Israel and Iran. Former Ambassador M. Humayun Kabir remarked, “Israel attacks Iran; however, Iran has not retaliated.
Should any retaliation occur, it could destabilize the situation in the Middle East.” This sentiment resonates within the international community, which seeks stability rather than conflict in the region.
The long-standing conflict between Israel and Palestine, particularly the ongoing hostilities in Gaza, adds further complexity to the current situation.
Humayun Kabir cautioned that while the immediate threat appears to have diminished, any further aggression could lead to a larger conflict. He stated, “If no further retaliation occurs, we may anticipate a ceasefire in the Middle East.”
The implications of these escalations are profound, especially for countries with substantial labor markets in the region, such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India.
Tens of thousands of workers from these nations are employed across various sectors in the Middle East, significantly contributing to their respective economies.
Kabir highlighted this concern, noting, “We have a considerable number of workers in Middle Eastern countries. The government has already repatriated some Bangladeshi workers from Lebanon amidst the Israeli attacks there.”
Recently, at least 119 Bangladeshi workers returned home from Lebanon due to the escalating situation, with a total of 1,800 Bangladeshis registered for repatriation as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The government is covering the costs of their return.
In light of these developments, Kabir reassured that “Bangladeshi workers need not worry right now if there is no further retaliation.” When asked whether Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus could play a role in the Middle East situation, he remarked, “I don’t believe so. There are countries like the USA, Egypt, and Qatar that are actively engaged. However, we can raise our voices against the war.”
As the crisis unfolds, various nations have condemned Israel’s actions. Protests have emerged in several countries, urging the United Nations to take a proactive stance in mediating the situation to prevent further escalation.
US National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett stated, “We urge Iran to cease its attacks on Israel so that this cycle of fighting can end without further escalation.”
He emphasized that the US did not participate in the operation, adding, “Our aim is to accelerate diplomacy and de-escalate tensions in the Middle East region.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Qatar condemned the attacks, calling them “a blatant violation of Iran’s sovereignty and a clear breach of international law.” The minister urged all parties “to exercise restraint, resolve disputes through dialogue and peaceful means, and avoid actions that could destabilize security in the region.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Egypt expressed similar sentiments, condemning all actions that threaten regional security and stability. The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs characterized Israel’s actions as leading the region to the brink of a wider war, labeling them as genocide in Gaza and urging for de-escalation.
