About six weeks after the BNP government took office in Bangladesh, the country faces a complex foreign policy environment shaped by the Iran war and global energy disruptions. The prime minister’s foreign affairs adviser Humayun Kabir is touring Middle Eastern nations to strengthen ties and assess the situation of Bangladeshi workers, while the foreign minister is scheduled to visit India next week. Earlier, a senior U.S. official visited Dhaka, reflecting Bangladesh’s active diplomatic calendar.

The new government insists its foreign policy is based on national interest rather than alignment with any specific country. However, Bangladesh’s initial statement criticizing Iran’s attacks but avoiding comment on U.S. strikes drew criticism from Tehran. Analysts note that balancing relations among the U.S., China, India, and Russia remains difficult, especially over projects like Teesta, where competing interests persist. Former diplomats and experts urge a consensus-based approach to protect national interests.

Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman and State Minister Shama Obaid Islam emphasize that Bangladesh will prioritize its people’s welfare over external pressures, even as major powers seek to link Dhaka’s policies to their strategic agendas.