Bangladesh Reinstates ‘Except Israel’ Passport Inscription Amid Public Fury Over Gaza Strikes
Key Highlights:
DHAKA, April 14, 2025 — Amid escalating violence in Gaza and mass protests across the country, the Government of Bangladesh has decided to reintroduce the ‘except Israel’ travel ban clause in all official passports. The directive, issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on April 7, was confirmed by senior officials on Sunday.
The phrase — “THIS PASSPORT IS VALID FOR ALL COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD EXCEPT ISRAEL” — will now be printed again on new Bangladeshi passports, effectively banning travel to Israel for its citizens.
Why the Policy Has Been Reinstated
The decision comes in response to intensifying Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, which have triggered widespread outrage across Bangladesh.
On Saturday, thousands took to the streets of Dhaka, waving Palestinian flags and chanting slogans like “Free, Free Palestine”. Protesters were seen stomping on effigies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former US President Donald Trump, accusing them of enabling violence against Palestinians.
Timeline of the Israel Travel Policy in Bangladesh
- Pre-2021: Bangladesh passports contained the phrase “except Israel,” barring travel to the Jewish state.
- 2021: The clause was removed during the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government, citing international passport norms.
- 2025: The clause is reinstated following public pressure and rising global criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Deputy Secretary Nilima Afroze of the Security Services Division confirmed the issuance of the directive, saying: “We issued the letter on April 7.”
Public Reaction and Political Solidarity
The primary protest occurred at Suhrawardy Udyan, a central park near Dhaka University, drawing students, activists, and political groups. Prominent participation came from:
- Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led by Khaleda Zia
- Right-wing Islamic groups and opposition parties
These groups expressed solidarity with Palestinians and strongly criticized the previous government’s decision to remove the Israel clause.
Bangladesh’s Diplomatic Stance on Israel
Bangladesh does not maintain diplomatic ties with Israel and has long supported the Palestinian cause. The reimposition of the travel ban aligns with its historical foreign policy stance and domestic sentiment.
Despite this, the 2021 decision to drop the phrase was heavily debated. While some officials claimed it was to “standardize passports” in line with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) norms, critics viewed it as a softening stance towards Israel.
Domestic Sentiment Overrides Diplomatic Neutrality
The return of ‘except Israel’ to Bangladeshi passports signals a clear alignment with national sentiment. As violence in Gaza continues and global criticism of Israel mounts, Bangladesh is reaffirming its pro-Palestine position through this symbolic yet significant move.
With this change, the country joins a growing list of nations reasserting their opposition to Israel’s actions in occupied Palestinian territories, reflecting how international politics continue to influence domestic policies.
Stay tuned for further updates on Bangladesh’s evolving foreign policy stance and the global response to the Gaza conflict.
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