DHAKA: Once again, history appears to be repeating itself as the Bangladeshi government, known for its pro-Pakistan stance, has taken a significant step to reintroduce the phrase “except Israel” on its passports. This move marks a reversal of the policy that was established during the administration of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The phrase will now be featured on standard Bangladeshi passports, reaffirming the nation’s long-standing policy of not recognizing Israel diplomatically. Home Affairs Adviser Salahuddin Ahmed confirmed to local media that this restriction has already been reinstated on diplomatic passports and will soon be applied to all passport categories.
Officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Department of Immigration and Passports stated that this decision underscores Bangladesh’s consistent support for Palestine, reflects popular public sentiment, and aligns with the government’s “moral stance” on the issue. The removal of the phrase in 2021 occurred when the government, led by Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League, introduced the country’s electronic passport system.
The e-passport initiative, which reportedly cost around Tk 4,500 crore, faced widespread criticism when the clause was dropped. Last year, the interim government also made moves to restore the restriction. On April 7, the Home Ministry issued instructions to reintroduce the “except Israel” wording on passports, although the measure was not fully enforced beyond diplomatic passports.
It is noteworthy that Bangladesh has never established official diplomatic relations with Israel. Traditionally, Bangladeshi passports have included a statement indicating they are valid for travel everywhere except Israel.
Meanwhile, authorities are redesigning passport watermark images, with one proposed addition featuring Abu Sayeed with outstretched arms—an image associated with the July protest movement. Conversely, some older images, such as the mausoleum of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the Mujibnagar Memorial, are being removed from the passport design.
