The issue of Bangladesh was raised during a US State Department briefing, where a journalist inquired about the security of religious minorities in the country.
However, the newly appointed spokesperson, Tammy Bruce, refrained from providing a direct response, instead emphasising that such matters fall under diplomatic discussions and require careful consideration before any official remarks.
During the regular press briefing on Monday (17 March), a journalist referred to past remarks by former US President Donald Trump, who had previously expressed concerns over attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh.
The journalist then asked for an assessment of the current situation by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who has been in office for nearly 60 days.
In response, Bruce acknowledged the question but refrained from offering any specific stance.
She stated, “Once again, you are referring to President Trump’s perspective on how the US administration views developments in other countries.”
At this point, the journalist reiterated that the query was specifically about Bangladesh.
Bruce then responded, “Secretary Rubio certainly follows his perspective on the nature of decisions taken on this matter. However, when it comes to discussions, diplomatic considerations, and engagements with involved parties, I will not speculate on the possible outcomes, nor would you want me to.”
When the journalist attempted to rephrase and ask the question again, Bruce denied the opportunity, reiterating, “What I will not do is express any government-to-government diplomatic positions or comment on specific events in a way that falls under diplomatic discourse. Nor will I speculate on what might happen.”
Her response signals a cautious approach by the US administration regarding Bangladesh, opting to keep its stance on minority security within the realm of diplomatic channels rather than making any public declarations.
