Bangladesh Reinstates Israel Travel Ban on Passports Following Public Protests

The government restores the 'except Israel' clause in passports, reversing a 2021 decision, as protests in Dhaka denounce Israeli actions in Gaza.

Bangladesh has officially reintroduced the 'except Israel' inscription on its passports, barring citizens from traveling to Israel directly.
The Home Ministry issued the directive to restore the clause on April 7, confirmed by Deputy Secretary Nilima Afroze.
The policy reversal follows widespread protests in Dhaka, where thousands demonstrated against Israeli military actions in Gaza.
The clause, removed in 2021 under Sheikh Hasina's government to align with international standards, has been reinstated due to public pressure.
Government officials have warned that Bangladeshi citizens traveling to Israel could face legal consequences under the updated policy.