Protests brought out near US Embassy in Dhaka over Israeli attacks on Gaza

Multiple protest rallies were held in various locations near the US Embassy in Dhaka today (7 April), condemning the brutal Israeli attacks on Gaza and expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people.

The demonstrations began around 11:00am and were ongoing as of 1:45pm, reports Prothom Alo.

A group of students from United International University (UIU) gathered in front of the footbridge opposite the US Embassy around 1:45pm. They voiced outrage against the horrific attacks on Gaza by chanting slogans such as "Free, Free Palestine," "Slap Trump with a shoe on both cheeks," and "Who are we? Who are you? Palestine, Palestine!"

Security has been beefed up in front of the American embassy to avoid untoward situations over the protest of the Israeli attack on Gaza, said Tareq Mahmud, deputy commissioner of the Gulshan Division.  

Local thana police and additional reserve force have been deployed. Besides army and BGB forces are also present there, he added.

He further stated that "Protestors gathered in small groups in the area. After the demonstration, they are leaving the place peacefully."

Earlier, at around 11:30am, another group of young demonstrators staged a protest march in the Gulshan area, near the US Embassy. They occupied the main road in front of the embassy, causing traffic disruptions. Police were present at the scene to maintain control and ensure order.

Students from several institutions, including Presidency University, the University of Information Technology and Sciences (UITS), and Bangladesh Navy College Dhaka, also gathered on the main road in front of the US Embassy from the morning.

Since early morning, army personnel have been stationed in front of the embassy, forming a human barricade. Passersby in the area have been subject to security checks.