Dhaka tightens security at US embassy amid global tensions
Staff Reporter:
Security around the US Embassy and the wider diplomatic area in Dhaka has been strengthened in response to ongoing global developments,
Speaking after a meeting with US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Monday said, “To reinforce security in the diplomatic zone, regular forces alongside Border Guard Bangladesh have been deployed. Law enforcement agencies have also been instructed to maintain heightened vigilance.”
The meeting covered a range of bilateral issues, including law enforcement cooperation, counter-terrorism, tackling illegal migration, and measures to improve security at diplomatic missions.
Both sides discussed implementing the Special Programme for Embassy Augmentation and Response (SPEAR) and the Electronic Nationality Verification (ENV) system. At the start of the meeting, Minister Ahmed welcomed the ambassador, stating, “The United States is a close partner of Bangladesh. Since the beginning, it has played a key role in supporting counter-terrorism and security initiatives in our country.”
In response, Ambassador Christensen said, “The United States wishes to further strengthen its ties with Bangladesh. We are keen to implement the SPEAR programme to bolster security across Dhaka’s diplomatic area. Rapid signing of a memorandum of understanding is necessary; otherwise, US funds may be withdrawn or redirected.”
He added, “The ENV programme will help prevent illegal migration, and its implementation would place Bangladesh in a green zone under US immigration protocols.”
Ambassador Christensen also highlighted US support in counter-terrorism, noting, “Since 2010, nearly 30,000 Bangladeshi police officers from investigative to deputy inspector general level have been trained, and necessary equipment has been provided. However, retirements and transfers have limited the programme’s effectiveness.”
Minister Ahmed assured that necessary steps would be taken, directing officials to organise a workshop with relevant stakeholders to ensure swift implementation.
Officials present included Joint Secretary of the Ministry’s Political-1 Division Rebecca Khan, and from the US Embassy, Political and Economic Counsellor Eric Gillan, Political Officer Shane Sanders, Political Specialist Tanik Munir, and Political Officer Riley Palmertree.
The announcement comes shortly after a deadly attack on a US Consulate office in Pakistan, which resulted in multiple casualties and heightened concerns over the safety of American missions in South Asia.
“This is a reminder of the risks faced by diplomatic missions in the region,” the minister added. “We must remain vigilant and proactive to safeguard our foreign partners and maintain regional stability.”
The strengthened security measures in Dhaka include increased patrols, restricted access points, and coordination between the police and BGB to prevent any potential threats, reflecting a broader regional response following recent attacks on US facilities.
Meanwhile, US Ambassador in a Facebook post said, “My meeting with Home Affairs Minister Salahuddin Ahmed focused on strengthening our fight against illegal immigration, and deepening collaboration on security and counterterrorism.”
