Home
+
Published : 17 Jun 2025, 06:04 PM
The interim government is facing multiple complications in its efforts to evacuate Bangladeshis from Tehran as Israel continues to launch fresh attacks on Iran.
Acting Foreign Secretary Ruhul Alam Siddique said about 400 of the estimated 2,000 Bangladeshis in Iran are currently in Tehran -- the group now considered most at risk.
"We’ve already started relocating those in Tehran to safer zones. Initial costs are being covered using funds held by our embassy," Ruhul told bdnews24.com.
A lack of direct banking channels due to US sanctions is complicating urgent fund transfers for evacuation.
“Sending money is very difficult. The banking system doesn't work there,” he said. “This delay is mainly due to those restrictions. We're doing our best to send the required funds and continue relocation using what we already have.”
The foreign ministry is also seeking support from allied nations and Iran itself. “We’re trying every available mechanism. But in wartime, nothing is easy,” he said.
Ministry officials said under previous sanctions, funds used to be sent via third countries with currency exchange arrangements with Iran.
Now, with war conditions, even that route has tightened.
As relocation begins, the government has advised Bangladeshis to move as far from Tehran as possible, though full exit from Iran is not currently “feasible”.
“Air travel is halted. Overland travel may be possible but not safe,” the acting foreign secretary said.
A total of 100 Bangladeshis have contacted the foreign ministry’s hotline to request evacuation.
The Bangladesh Embassy in Tehran has begun moving them, along with 40 staffers, to safer locations.
Israeli airstrikes on Iranian military targets began early Friday, around 4am local time, and have continued for five days.
On Monday, Israel hit a building belonging to Iranian state television where eight Bangladeshis were present.
“They were unharmed and are safe. They likely work in the Bangla section of Iranian Radio,” Ruhul said.
He also said both the chancery and the ambassador’s residence in Tehran are now at risk.
“Both the embassy office and the ambassador’s residence are under clear threat. The ambassador relocated to a safer place [on Monday] night,” he added.
The caretaker administration has launched an emergency hotline for Bangladeshis living in Iran and their families.
Ruhul said after temporary relocation, the next step will be to help returnees reach home or cross into countries like Pakistan or Turkey.
“We’re arranging shelters, and depending on their choice, we may help them reach safer neighbouring countries,” he added.
While there have been no reported casualties among Bangladeshis, officials remain deeply concerned.
“We know from the Ukraine war how prolonged conflict can severely impact us. The Middle East is vital to our economy --this war could be deeply damaging,” Ruhul said.
