Govt to bring back Bangladeshis if at risk in Iran: Shama Obaed

If Bangladeshi expatriates in Iran face life-threatening risks amid the volatile situation in the Middle East, they will be brought back to the country, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed has said.

She made the remarks while speaking to journalists at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, March 24, highlighting the government's position on monitoring the current situation and ensuring expatriate safety.

Responding to a question about whether Bangladeshis in Iran would be repatriated, the state minister said there are currently about 2,000 Bangladeshis in Iran, a significant number of whom are students. "Based on information we have so far, they are safe. They are not in an unsafe situation there. They are in constant contact with the Tehran mission. If they face any life-threatening risk, we will definitely bring them back."

Regarding the safety and repatriation of Bangladeshi expatriates in the Middle East, Shama Obaed said Bangladesh has repeatedly called for an end to the war and a resolution of the crisis through diplomatic means. The concerned missions are working tirelessly to ensure expatriate safety.

The state minister further said, "It is not possible for everyone in the Middle East to return. However, we are working to facilitate the return of those who wish to come back."

It is to be noted that due to the ongoing war situation in the Middle East, 186 Bangladeshis were brought back to the country on a chartered flight on March 20. The state minister also informed that the government is closely monitoring the situation.