Security Tightened for Prof Yunus After NY Political Attack

The interim government of Bangladesh has strongly condemned the politically motivated assault on BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and NCP leaders Akhter Hossain and Tasnim Jara at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport on Monday.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the government expressed deep regret over the incident and described it as a serious breach of security and democratic norms. “We reiterate our unwavering commitment to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law, both at home and internationally. Acts of political violence and intimidation—whether within Bangladesh or abroad—will not be tolerated and will be met with appropriate legal and diplomatic responses,” the statement said.

Following the attack, security measures for Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus and all members of his official delegation have been significantly reinforced. The government described the incident as a stark reminder of the toxic and violent political culture under the previous regime of Sheikh Hasina—a legacy it is determined to dismantle to build a peaceful, democratic, and inclusive Bangladesh.

Ahead of the visit, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had coordinated extensive precautionary security arrangements for Prof Yunus and the accompanying political leaders. Upon arrival at JFK Airport, the delegation was initially routed through a designated VVIP gate and escorted into a specially secured transportation unit.

However, due to last-minute visa-related complications, the delegation had to use an alternative exit. Despite formal requests by the highest levels of the interim government for continued VVIP access and security facilitation, airport authorities were unable to comply, inadvertently exposing members of the delegation to potential risk.

Immediately after the attack, the Bangladesh Mission in New York engaged with the New York Police Department to ensure a swift and lawful response. Authorities have reportedly apprehended one individual, and a formal investigation into the matter is ongoing.

The interim government affirmed it remains in continuous coordination with U.S. federal and local law enforcement agencies to safeguard the safety, dignity, and security of its representatives abroad, emphasizing that no act of political violence against its officials will be tolerated.