In April 2025, the interim government of Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, reinstated the phrase “except Israel” on its passports, effectively barring its citizens from traveling to Israel. This decision reversed the 2021 move by the previous Sheikh Hasina administration, which had removed the clause in an effort to align with international standards and modernize the nation’s e-passports. The reintroduction of this restriction reflects the government’s response to escalating Israeli military actions in Gaza and the resulting public outcry within Bangladesh.
The original inclusion of the “except Israel” clause dates back to the early years of Bangladesh’s independence, signifying its non-recognition of Israel and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. The 2021 removal was a significant shift, aiming to present a more neutral stance and facilitate broader international engagement. However, the absence of this clause did not equate to official recognition of Israel, and travel to Israel remained effectively prohibited.
The recent reinstatement of the clause comes amid intensified Israeli military operations in Gaza, which have resulted in substantial civilian casualties and widespread destruction. Reports indicate that Israeli forces have taken control of over 30% of the Gaza Strip, leading to the displacement of nearly 400,000 Palestinians between March 18 and April 8, 2025. The humanitarian situation has deteriorated significantly, with over 51,000 people killed in Gaza since the conflict’s escalation in October 2023, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The majority of these casualties are women and children, highlighting the severe impact on civilian populations.
The political implications of reinstating the travel ban are multifaceted. Domestically, it serves to appease public sentiment and reinforce the government’s commitment to the Palestinian cause, a stance deeply rooted in Bangladesh’s political and cultural identity. Internationally, the move may strain relations with countries that have normalized ties with Israel, potentially affecting diplomatic engagements and economic partnerships. However, it also positions Bangladesh firmly within a bloc of nations advocating for Palestinian rights, which may strengthen alliances with like-minded countries.
Economically, the decision could have both positive and negative repercussions. On one hand, it may bolster trade and cooperation with countries sympathetic to the Palestinian cause. On the other hand, it could deter investment from nations aligned with Israel or those favoring a more neutral stance. The overall impact will depend on how Bangladesh navigates its foreign policy and balances its ideological commitments with pragmatic economic considerations.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with ongoing Israeli airstrikes targeting civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and humanitarian convoys. On April 15, 2025, an Israeli airstrike hit the entrance of the Kuwaiti Field Hospital in Gaza, killing a medic and injuring nine others. Such incidents have drawn international condemnation and intensified calls for accountability. The humanitarian crisis has prompted Egypt and Qatar to mediate ceasefire proposals, but significant obstacles persist, particularly regarding demands for a complete Israeli withdrawal and disarmament of Hamas.
In conclusion, Bangladesh’s decision to reintroduce the “except Israel” clause on its passports is a reflection of its historical stance, current political climate, and response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. While it may have complex political and economic implications, the move underscores Bangladesh’s enduring solidarity with the Palestinian people and its commitment to advocating for their rights on the international stage.
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Coverpage’s editorial stance.
