The US Embassy in Dhaka has issued a new security alert for American citizens in Bangladesh, warning of increased risks from political rallies and demonstrations as the country approaches its February 12, 2026, parliamentary elections and simultaneous national referendum.
Released on December 15, the alert urges heightened vigilance, noting that even peaceful gatherings “can turn confrontational and escalate into violence,” and advises avoiding crowds, demonstrations, and large gatherings while monitoring local media.
This timely warning from Washington underscores growing international concerns over Bangladesh’s volatile political landscape under the Jamaat-controlled interim government of Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, amid recent high-profile incidents and mounting calls for inclusive polls.
Triggered by Election Announcement and Rising Unrest
The alert follows the Election Commission’s December 11 announcement of the twin votes. As campaigning intensifies, political activities are expected to ramp up, potentially leading to clashes.
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The timing coincides with heightened tensions after the December 12 shooting of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, a prominent leader of the 2024 uprising and independent candidate for Dhaka-8. Hadi remains critically ill, and the attack has sparked accusations from some Yunus supporters blaming Awami League (AL) remnants, with unsubstantiated claims of assailants fleeing to India. This has fueled anti-India rhetoric and protests, straining bilateral ties as Dhaka demands cooperation while New Delhi hosts exiled Hasina.
Adding fuel to the instability, President Mohammed Shahabuddin revealed in a December 11 Reuters interview a sense of “humiliation” under Yunus, citing isolation and plans to resign post-elections. His comments have amplified debates over the interim administration’s handling of power.
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With the AL banned since May 2025 and excluded from the polls, exiled Hasina and supporters argue the vote lacks legitimacy without the country’s largest party. Growing voices, including from diaspora communities and some domestic observers, call for lifting the ban to allow “clean” AL figures to contest, warning exclusion risks low turnout and further unrest.
Broader International Warnings and Rights Concerns
The US alert aligns with ongoing advisories from allies. Canada continues to advise “Exercise a high degree of caution” (last major update September 19, 2025, with persistent monitoring), citing political unrest, violent demonstrations, terrorism threats, minority attacks, and an “Avoid all travel” zone for the Chittagong Hill Tracts due to ethnic violence and kidnappings.
Global human rights organisations have echoed these security concerns. Human Rights Watch has documented arbitrary arrests, reprisals against AL affiliates, and slow progress on reforms, warning of democratic erosion. Amnesty International urges protection for dissent and accountability for abuses, while the UN has highlighted risks of polarised violence ahead of elections.
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