Nationwide anti-Israel protests in Bangladesh turned violent in some areas on Monday after an unruly mob targeted Israel-linked businesses like Bata, KFC and Pizza Hut in different parts of the country.
Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the interim government, condemned the vandalism via a tweet and said at least 49 individuals were arrested with further investigations underway.
Reports of vandalism came from areas namely Bogra, Sylhet and Cox's Bazar. The student-led protests were demanding an immediate end to Israeli aggression in Gaza.
Protesters resorted to pelting stones at the establishments, whilst waving Palestine flags, shouting pro-Palestine. Those outside the American Embassy in Dhaka shouted anti-American slogans, including some targeting US President Donald Trump.
Following the violence, Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam instructed authorities to arrest the individuals responsible across the country. The police are said to be identifying culprits based on the video footage of the rallies.
"The government does not impede any lawful protests. However, we will not tolerate any criminal acts under the guise of protest," a top police officer added.
While the interim government led by Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus condemned the violence, ousted Sheikh Hasina's Awami League termed the developments as a sign of the alarming rise of extremism in Bangladesh.
"This is more than a political crisis- it's a national emergency. Bangladesh risks becoming the next Afghanistan if the international community remains silent," the Awami League said in a statement after the violence.
Hasina's party demanded accountability from the Yunus-led administration and said the rule of law must be restored.
"Democracy must be revived. Dr. Yunus must step down to make way for free and fair elections,” a statement read.
