The United States has issued a security alert to its citizens in Bangladesh, urging heightened caution as student-led protests over the Gaza conflict unfold across Dhaka and other major cities.
In a statement released on its official Facebook page on Monday, the US Embassy in Dhaka advised American citizens to avoid demonstration areas, large crowds, and remain alert throughout the day.
The embassy said mass protests, particularly involving university students, are expected to continue throughout April 7.
“US citizens should practice vigilance and remember that demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence,” the embassy noted.
Citizens have been urged to review their personal security plans, monitor local news for updates, and carry a charged mobile phone for emergency communications, it added.
Due to potential traffic disruptions and the anticipated movement of protesters toward the embassy area, the US Embassy announced a reduction in public services for Monday afternoon.
The alert comes amid a wave of student strikes and solidarity rallies taking place across university campuses in Bangladesh, as demonstrators protest the ongoing violence in Gaza.