Safety of expat Bangladeshis top priority amid Middle East crisis: Foreign minister

Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman has reaffirmed that protecting Bangladeshi nationals living and working in the Middle East remains the government’s top priority as regional tensions continue to escalate.

Speaking to reporters after chairing an inter-ministerial meeting at the Foreign Ministry, the minister said authorities are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating efforts to safeguard expatriates and secure national interests.

“Our position is very clear. The foremost responsibility of the government is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our citizens abroad,” he said, emphasising that the state will extend support to Bangladeshis “on either side of the crisis zone.”

Khalilur Rahman said the welfare of expatriate workers has been central to government deliberations since the conflict intensified.

He noted that he had spoken with foreign ministers and officials from Kuwait, Bahrain and Qatar, who assured him that measures are being taken to protect Bangladeshi nationals residing in their countries.

“They have given assurances regarding the security of our citizens,” he added.

The minister also addressed concerns over migrant workers temporarily stranded due to flight disruptions, saying discussions are underway to facilitate travel once air services stabilise. He expressed hope that diplomatic engagement would help resolve the crisis peacefully and prevent further escalation.

The inter-ministerial meeting reviewed potential impacts on aviation, employment and regional stability.

Minister for Labour and Employment and Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Ariful Haque Chowdhury, State Minister Md Nurul Haque, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam, and Adviser to the Prime Minister Humayun Kabir, who holds the rank of State Minister for the ministries of Foreign Affairs, Disaster Management and Relief, and Civil Aviation and Tourism, were also present at the meeting.