Bangladesh ramps up security for February 12 national elections, the first since the 2024 uprising that ousted Sheikh Hasina.



Election Preparation in Full Swing, Security Beefed Up Ahead of Polls in Bangladesh 

The United States is planning to counter China’s rapidly increasing presence in South Asia by offering defence systems to Bangladesh as alternatives to Chinese hardware, Washington's ambassador to Dhaka told Reuters in an exclusive chat. The US will present the offer to the next government that comes to power after the national elections in Bangladesh on Thursday, the ambassador added.&nbsp;Notably, China had recently signed a defence agreement with Bangladesh to set up a drone factory near the India border. Besides, Bangladesh is also in talks with Pakistan to buy JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, multi-role combat aircraft jointly developed with China.“The United States is concerned about growing Chinese influence in South Asia and is committed to working closely with the Bangladeshi government to clearly communicate the risks of certain types of engagement with China,” US Ambassador Brent T. Christensen told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-goes-to-polls-with-12-77-crore-voters-who-is-eligible-to-vote-explained-1770798145736">Bangladesh goes to polls with 12.77 crore voters. Who is eligible to vote? Explained</a>&nbsp;“The US offers a range of options to help Bangladesh meet its military capability needs, including US systems and those from allied partners, to provide alternatives to Chinese systems,” he said without offering further details.The Chinese foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.&nbsp;<h2>‘Trump admin wants good Delhi-Dhaka ties’</h2>&nbsp;Ambassador Christensen further said that President Donald Trump’s administration would “like to see a good relationship between Bangladesh and India to support stability in the region”.New Delhi-Dhaka relations have nosedived under the interim government led by Mohd Yunus, badly affecting visa services and cricket ties between the two neighbours.Bangladesh votes in a general election on Thursday after a Gen Z-led uprising toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. She has since taken refuge in New Delhi. As Dhaka’s ties with India took a hit, Bangladesh has shown a tilt towards Pakistan. China has also deepened its influence in Bangladesh.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hindu-businessman-candidacy-draws-attention-ahead-of-bangladesh-elections-who-is-krishna-nandi-1770797746642">Hindu businessman candidacy draws attention ahead of Bangladesh elections. Who is Krishna Nandi?</a><h2>‘Commercial diplomacy our top priority’</h2>&nbsp;Christensen said many US businesses were looking at potentially investing in Bangladesh but would want the next government to show early and clear signs that it is ‘open for business’.“Commercial diplomacy is one of our top priorities, and we look forward to working with the new government to build on progress made with the interim government, particularly in strengthening commercial, economic, and security ties,” he said.Energy producer Chevron has been in Bangladesh for decades, but not many other US companies are visible in the densely populated country of 175 million people, as high taxes and difficulties in repatriating profits have created hurdles.There are no Starbucks or McDonald's outlets in Bangladesh.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unredacted-epstein-files-have-trump-s-name-everywhere-potus-mentioned-more-than-a-million-times-1770794778216">REVEALED! Here's how many times Trump is mentioned in unredacted Epstein Files</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘US largest contributor of aid for Rohingya refugees’</h2>&nbsp;The ambassador said the United States is the largest contributor to humanitarian operations for the 1.2 million Rohingya refugees sheltered in Bangladesh.“The US remains the largest contributor to the Rohingya refugee response and continues robust health programming in Bangladesh,” he said, while urging other international donors to take on a greater share of the burden.“The US cannot sustain the bulk of the effort alone. International partners need to increase their support for the Rohingya response,” he said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-elections-2026-security-tightened-yunus-promises-smooth-transfer-1770796286911/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-elections-2026-security-tightened-yunus-promises-smooth-transfer-1770796286911/embed</a>&nbsp;

China has deepened its influence in Bangladesh since the ouster of Sheikh Haseena and recently signed a defence agreement to set up a drone factory near the India border. Dhaka is also in talks with Pakistan to buy JF-17 Thunder fighter jets jointly developed with China.

The United States is planning to counter China’s rapidly increasing presence in South Asia by offering defence systems to Bangladesh as alternatives to Chinese hardware, Washington's ambassador to Dhaka told Reuters in an exclusive chat. The US will present the offer to the next government that comes to power after the national elections in Bangladesh on Thursday, the ambassador added. Notably, China had recently signed a defence agreement with Bangladesh to set up a drone factory near the India border. Besides, Bangladesh is also in talks with Pakistan to buy JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, multi-role combat aircraft jointly developed with China. “The United States is concerned about growing Chinese influence in South Asia and is committed to working closely with the Bangladeshi government to clearly communicate the risks of certain types of engagement with China,” US Ambassador Brent T. Christensen told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday. Also Read: Bangladesh goes to polls with 12.77 crore voters. Who is eligible to vote? Explained “The US offers a range of options to help Bangladesh meet its military capability needs, including US systems and those from allied partners, to provide alternatives to Chinese systems,” he said without offering further details. The Chinese foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. ‘Trump admin wants good Delhi-Dhaka ties’ Ambassador Christensen further said that President Donald Trump’s administration would “like to see a good relationship between Bangladesh and India to support stability in the region”. New Delhi-Dhaka relations have nosedived under the interim government led by Mohd Yunus, badly affecting visa services and cricket ties between the two neighbours. Bangladesh votes in a general election on Thursday after a Gen Z-led uprising toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. She has since taken refuge in New Delhi. As Dhaka’s ties with India took a hit, Bangladesh has shown a tilt towards Pakistan. China has also deepened its influence in Bangladesh. Also read | Hindu businessman candidacy draws attention ahead of Bangladesh elections. Who is Krishna Nandi? ‘Commercial diplomacy our top priority’ Christensen said many US businesses were looking at potentially investing in Bangladesh but would want the next government to show early and clear signs that it is ‘open for business’. “Commercial diplomacy is one of our top priorities, and we look forward to working with the new government to build on progress made with the interim government, particularly in strengthening commercial, economic, and security ties,” he said. Energy producer Chevron has been in Bangladesh for decades, but not many other US companies are visible in the densely populated country of 175 million people, as high taxes and difficulties in repatriating profits have created hurdles. There are no Starbucks or McDonald's outlets in Bangladesh. Also read | REVEALED! Here's how many times Trump is mentioned in unredacted Epstein Files ‘US largest contributor of aid for Rohingya refugees’ The ambassador said the United States is the largest contributor to humanitarian operations for the 1.2 million Rohingya refugees sheltered in Bangladesh. “The US remains the largest contributor to the Rohingya refugee response and continues robust health programming in Bangladesh,” he said, while urging other international donors to take on a greater share of the burden. “The US cannot sustain the bulk of the effort alone. International partners need to increase their support for the Rohingya response,” he said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladesh-elections-2026-security-tightened-yunus-promises-smooth-transfer-1770796286911/embed

China has deepened its influence in Bangladesh since the ouster of Sheikh Haseena and recently signed a defence agreement to set up a drone factory near the India border. Dhaka is also in talks with Pakistan to buy JF-17 Thunder fighter jets jointly developed with China.

‘US to offer Bangladesh defence systems to counter Chinese influence’: Washington’s envoy in Dhaka

Bangladesh prepares for the 2026 elections with hundreds of police deployed to polling centres and a 72-hour nationwide motorcycle ban to ensure security. Yunus promises a quick transfer of power to the elected government. Stay updated on election developments, security measures, and key political statements from Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Elections 2026: Security Tightened, Yunus Promises Smooth Transfer 

Bangladesh is set to welcome a new Prime Minister for the first time in over three decades following the 2026 national election. This historic political transition marks a significant moment in the country’s governance and could reshape Bangladesh’s domestic and international policies.

Bangladesh Election 2026: Bangladesh Set for Leadership Change After Three Decades

BNP holds a polling edge over Jamaat-e-Islami on the eve of Bangladesh's February 12, 2026 election, with campaigning now concluded.



Bangladesh: BNP Edges Jamaat in Bangladesh Poll Surveys

Attacks on minorities persist in Bangladesh ahead of the February 12, 2026 election, with Hindu trader Susen Chandra Das hacked to death inside his shop.



Breaking: Attacks on Minorities Continue in Bangladesh, Chandra Dad Killed Inside His Shop

BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami clash violently ahead of Bangladesh's February 12, 2026 election, turning ex-allies into rivals in a high-stakes power race.


Bangladesh Elections: Campaigning Ends, 48-hour Cooling-off Period Ahead of Polls 

A heated debate has erupted in Bangladesh over women’s participation in the upcoming elections, following controversial remarks by a Jamaat-e-Islami leader. The discussion has sparked widespread attention, highlighting issues of gender equality, political representation, and the role of women in shaping Bangladesh’s democracy.


Bangladesh Election: Jamaat-e-Islami Coalition Challenges BNP

Bangladesh is set to vote on February 12 as campaigning officially ends ahead of a crucial general election and referendum. The contest sees a fierce political battle, with the Jamaat-e-Islami-led coalition mounting a challenge against the BNP, raising stakes over the country’s political future and governance path.


Bangladesh Heads to Polls on Feb 12 as High-Stakes Election and Referendum Loom

Bangladesh and the united states have signed a reciprocal tariff agreement after negotiations spanning over nine months, beginning in April last year. Under the agreement, the US Will reduce its reciprocal tariff on Bangladeshi goods to 19 percent, down from 20 percent imposed in august last year, and initially proposed 37 percent.


Bangladesh, US Sign Reciprocal Tariff Deal: Key Details

Bangladesh and the United States have finalised a reciprocal tariff deal in Washington following nine months of negotiations. This video explains the agreement’s key points, potential economic impacts, and what it means for trade between the two nations.


US-Bangladesh Trade Deal: US Lowers Bangladesh Tariffs By 1%

Bangladesh and the United States have finalized a reciprocal tariff deal in Washington following nine months of negotiations. This video explains the agreement’s key points, potential economic impacts, and what it means for trade between the two nations.

Bangladesh, US Sign Reciprocal Tariff Deal After Months of Negotiations

Women activists in Dhaka held torch-lit midnight protests on February 9, 2026, demanding greater political representation ahead of the February 12 elections, amid concerns over gender exclusion in candidate lists.


Women Stage Protests in Dhaka, Demand Role in Politics

Bangladesh is set to sign a reciprocal tariff trade deal with the US today in a hybrid ceremony, aiming to lower the current 20% tariff on its exports while committing to buy 25 Boeing aircraft under a prior NDA.



Bangladesh-US Trade Deal Signed Tonight: Tariffs to Drop

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) was also present at the meeting, with BCB President Nazmul Hasan (Papon) Islam taking part in the discussions. The presence of top cricket officials highlights the importance of the talks, which focused on key issues concerning the sport’s administration and future direction. The meeting underscores ongoing coordination and engagement involving cricket governance in Bangladesh. More details are awaited as stakeholders review outcomes and next steps.

Bangladesh Cricket Board Attends Key Meeting | President Nazmul Islam Present

Bangladesh election front-runner Tarique Rahman has ruled out a unity government, expressing confidence that the BNP will secure a clear majority in the polls. He also rejected power-sharing with Jamaat, with the party targeting two-thirds of the 300 parliamentary seats.


Bangladesh Elections: BNP's Tarique Rahman Rejects Unity Govt Offer

Bangladesh Elections: Tarique Rahman Says Confident Of BNP's Majority In Polls 

Bangladesh is reportedly set to sign a secret agreement with the United States, with the interim government keeping the details confidential. The lack of transparency around the deal has sparked questions over its scope and implications, even as officials remain tight-lipped about the terms and timeline.


Bangladesh Set to Sign Secret Deal With US, Interim Govt Keeps Details Confidential | WION

A mysterious bat-borne virus, Pteropine orthoreovirus (PRV), has been identified in Bangladesh patients showing severe Nipah-like symptoms such as respiratory distress and encephalitis, but testing negative for Nipah itself.


Bangladesh: New Bat Virus Mimics Deadly Nipah Symptoms

Bangladesh’s Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami has released its 2026 election manifesto promising a softer line on women’s participation, including in governance and state institutions.



Jamaat’s Bangladesh U-Turn: Women Promised Role in Governance

Bangladesh is moving toward landmark national elections as concerns grow over credibility and the risk of violence. The International Crisis Group has flagged uncertainty, with the Awami League and BNP holding a narrow lead over Jamaat in a tense political race.


Bangladesh Heads Toward Landmark Polls Amid Credibility Concerns and Violence Fears

With Indian manufacturers now set to enjoy tariff-free entry, Bangladeshi exporters fear an immediate erosion of orders, margins, and market share. The shock has exposed how vulnerable Dhaka's export model has become. The anxiety has spilled straight into government corridors.


Bangladesh Feels Pressure From India's Recent Trade Deals With US & EU

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami chief Shafiqur Rahman on Sunday deleted a controversial social media post after it sparked widespread criticism and outrage in the country.


Bangladesh's Jamaat-e-Islami Chief Compares Working Women With Prostitutes

In Budget 2026, India announces a 50% cut in foreign aid to Bangladesh, sparking reactions from political analysts and economists, experts say the reduction could impact bilateral projects, trade partnerships, and regional development initiatives, the decision comes amid shifting priorities in India’s fiscal planning and budget allocation

Budget 2026: India Cuts Bangladesh Foreign Aid Amid Budget 2026

The United States has issued a security alert for its citizens in Bangladesh ahead of the country’s national elections and a referendum scheduled for February 12, warning of possible political violence and extremist attacks during the polling period. The advisory was released by the US Embassy in Dhaka, citing heightened risks around election-related activities.


Dhaka: Elections on February 12 | US Issues Advisory For Nationals in Bangladesh

Pakistan and Bangladesh resumed direct flights after a 14-year hiatus, with twice-weekly Dhaka-Karachi services marking renewed civil aviation ties strained since 2012.

Pakistan-Bangladesh Resume Direct Flights After 14-Year Hiatus

Pakistan and Bangladesh on Thursday resumed direct air connectivity after a 14-year suspension, marking a move towards improving bilateral ties as Biman Bangladesh Airlines operated its inaugural Dhaka–Karachi flight.

Bangladesh: Direct Flights Between Bangladesh & Pak Resume After 14 Yrs

Bangladesh’s Jamaat-e-Islami chief has sparked major controversy after claiming that women are not fit to lead, triggering strong backlash from human rights groups. The remarks have raised serious questions about the Yunus government’s stance on gender equality, democratic values, and minority rights.

Bangladesh's Jamaat Chief Says Women Not Fit to Lead, Rights Group Questions Yunus Government

Bangladesh's response came after New Delhi advised the families of Indian officials posted in Dhaka to return home as a precautionary step, citing security concerns ahead of the country's general elections scheduled for February 12.

Bangladesh: Dhaka Downplays Security Threat to Foreign Officials

Bangladesh on Wednesday said that there was no security situation that justified India recalling the family members of its diplomats from Dhaka. This comes after New Delhi cited precautionary safety concerns amid rising extremist activity ahead of the country’s general elections.


India-Bangladesh Ties: 'No Reason for India to Recall Diplomats' Families' 

Bangladesh has signed a major UAV deal with China’s CETC to boost indigenous drone capabilities. The agreement includes setting up a UAV manufacturing plant and technology transfer for MALE and VTOL drones, moving the Bangladesh Air Force toward greater self-reliance.


Bangladesh-China Defence Ties: Dhaka Boosts Indigenous Drone Capacity With Beijing Deal 

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