Sun Apr 13 14:31:52 UTC 2025: ## Bangladesh Reinstates “Except Israel” Clause in Passports Amidst Gaza Protests
**DHAKA, BANGLADESH** – Bangladesh has reinstated the phrase “This passport is valid for all countries of the world except Israel” in its citizens’ passports, following widespread protests against Israeli actions in the Gaza Strip. The decision, announced Sunday, April 13th, 2025, reverses a 2021 move to remove the clause.
The Home Ministry issued a directive to the passport and immigration department to reinstate the restriction. Deputy Secretary Nilima Afroze confirmed the directive was issued on April 7th. The announcement follows large-scale demonstrations in Dhaka on Saturday, April 12th, where thousands protested Israeli actions, carrying Palestinian flags and chanting pro-Palestine slogans. Some protesters also targeted images of US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The “except Israel” clause was initially dropped in 2021 to supposedly align with international passport standards. However, growing public anger over the ongoing conflict in Gaza prompted the government’s reversal. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party and various right-wing Islamic groups joined the demonstrations in support of the Palestinian cause. The reintroduction of the travel restriction reflects the strong public sentiment in Bangladesh against Israel’s actions.
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