At least 72 arrested across Bangladesh after anti-Israel protests turn violent

Anti-Israel protests turn violent in Bangladesh (Photo: AP)

At least 72 individuals have been arrested across Bangladesh on Wednesday for his or her involvement in vandalism and looting throughout large-scale anti-Israel protests held earlier this week, reviews Dhaka Tribune.
Demonstrations erupted in a number of cities, together with the capital Dhaka, on Monday as 1000’s took to the streets to sentence Israel’s continued navy actions in Gaza. Protesters from varied political, social, spiritual, cultural, {and professional} organisations joined forces in what organisers described as a part of a world motion supporting Palestinians.
However, the protests turned violent when, in cities like Bogra, Sylhet, Cox’s Bazar and others, mobs vandalised outlets and companies, with some focusing on retailers perceived to have ties to Israel. Businesses similar to Bata, KFC and Pizza Hut got here beneath assault as demonstrators known as for a boycott of Israeli-affiliated merchandise.
The rallies noticed widespread scholar participation, with many skipping lessons and exams to march in solidarity. Protesters waved Palestinian flags, held up placards, and set ablaze an effigy of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Chants denouncing American backing for Israel and frustration over the inaction of worldwide our bodies just like the (*72*) Nations, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and Arab League echoed by the streets.
However, whereas many gatherings remained peaceable, some turned violent, resulting in incidents of property harm and theft.
‘Police have swiftly moved to take motion,’ says Yunus
Bangladesh’s interim chief advisor Muhammad Yunus addressed the unrest in an announcement posted on X. “Bangladesh police have swiftly moved to take action over the violent and unlawful events that unfolded during the Pro-Gaza protests in several cities on Monday,” he wrote. “These attacks and acts of vandalism are an affront to public safety and the rule of law.”
He additional confirmed that at least 60 people had initially been arrested.

In an earlier X submit on Monday, Yunus strongly condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza: “The Government of Bangladesh expresses its strongest condemnation of the Israeli Occupying Forces’ continued mass killing and gross violations of human rights in the Gaza Strip.”
He referred to the scenario as a “human catastrophe,” noting that Israel’s breach of ceasefire agreements had led to the deaths of scores of Palestinians—lots of them ladies and youngsters—whereas additionally blocking humanitarian help.
According to Gaza’s well being ministry, since October 7, 2023, over 50,000 individuals have been killed and at least 115,000 injured because of the continuing battle. Ceasefire efforts have repeatedly failed, with each side accusing one another of violations regardless of mounting worldwide stress.