Airport’s denial of VVIP protocol exposed delegation to risk: interim govt

The Interim Government of Bangladesh has condemned the assault on Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and National Citizen Party (NCP) leaders Akhter Hossen and Tasnim Jara in New York on Monday.

In a formal statement, the government said, "The Interim Government of Bangladesh expresses its deep regret over the troubling incident that occurred on Monday in New York, in which Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, along with National Citizen Party (NCP) leaders Akhter Hossen and Tasnim Jara, were subjected to a targeted and politically motivated assault. The attack was allegedly carried out by affiliates and supporters of the ousted autocrat, Sheikh Hasina."

Calling the incident a "stark and painful reminder of the toxic and violent political culture that flourished under Hasina's regime," the statement said the interim government was firmly committed to dismantling that legacy and working toward "a peaceful, democratic, and inclusive Bangladesh."

According to the statement, precautionary measures were taken in advance of the delegation's arrival at John F. Kennedy International Airport, but last-minute visa-related complications forced the leaders to use an alternative exit route. Despite a formal request for VVIP access and security facilitation, airport authorities "regrettably denied the request," inadvertently exposing members of the delegation to risk, the statement added.

Following the incident, the Bangladesh Mission in New York engaged with the New York Police Department (NYPD).

"We have been informed that one individual has already been apprehended, and a formal investigation into the matter is currently underway," the statement reads.

The statement further confirmed that security measures for the delegation have been reinforced and that the interim government remains in "close and continuous coordination with US federal and local law enforcement agencies" to ensure the safety and dignity of its representatives abroad.

"We reiterate our unwavering commitment to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law, both at home and internationally. Acts of political violence and intimidation -- whether within Bangladesh or beyond its borders -- will not be tolerated and will be met with appropriate legal and diplomatic responses," it says.