Expressing deep sorrow over the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a targeted attack, Bangladesh on Monday said ensuring the safety and security of more than six million Bangladeshis living in the Middle East remains its top priority.
"Our embassies in the countries concerned have been asked to issue appropriate advisories for our nationals to remain vigilant and strictly follow the guidance issued by the respective host governments," said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman sat in a meeting in the afternoon to discuss the situation in the Middle East as Bangladesh continues to be 'deeply concerned' at the safety and security of Bangladeshi nationals, a senior official told UNB.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam and representatives from the relevant Ministries are attending the meeting.
The Foreign Minister is scheduled to brief the media at 4:30pm today.
Meanwhile, the MoFA in a statement said the government is "saddened to learn" that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was assassinated in a targeted attack which is a violation of international law and norms.
Bangladesh extended heartfelt condolences to the brotherly people of Iran.
"Bangladesh believes that conflict brings no solution and only dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to the international law can resolve disputes," MoFA said
The government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh is "deeply saddened" to inform that two Bangladeshi nationals have lost their lives and seven others have sustained injuries due to missile and drone attacks in different parts of the Middle East.
In the United Arab Emirates, Saleh Ahmed, a Bangladeshi national from Baralekha, Sylhet, tragically lost his life in Ajman after being struck by debris resulting from an aerial attack on a civilian installation.
The Embassy of Bangladesh in the United Arab Emirates is in close contact with the local authorities regarding the matter and is extending necessary assistance to repatriate the mortal remains once commercial flights resume.
It has been reported that one Bangladeshi national has been killed and three more have been injured in Bahrain.
Bangladesh Mission in Manama is in touch with the local authorities regarding the incident.
In the State of Kuwait, four Bangladeshi nationals, Aminul Islam from Nabinagar, Brahmanbaria; Rabiul Islam from Sathia, Pabna; Masudur Rahman from Begumganj, Noakhali; and Dulal Miah from Chandina, Cumilla, sustained injuries following a drone attack in the vicinity of the civilian airport.
They have received necessary medical treatment and are currently reported to be in stable condition.
The Embassy of Bangladesh in Kuwait remains in regular contact with them and the Ambassador personally visited them at the hospital.
Separately, the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation vessel Banglar Joyjatra is currently stranded at Jebel Ali Port in the United Arab Emirates.
The Embassy is maintaining close communication with the vessel's captain. All crew members are reported to be safe.
The government of Bangladesh reiterates its deep concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East and continues to monitor developments closely.