Bangladesh Restores ‘Except Israel’ Clause on Passports

Dhaka: Government Reinstates Long-Standing Passport Restriction

The Bangladesh government has decided to restore the “Except Israel” clause on its passports, reversing a policy introduced during the administration of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

According to Beyond Time News, the decision reaffirms Bangladesh’s long-standing position of not recognizing Israel and reflects the country’s continued support for the Palestinian cause.

‘Except Israel’ Wording to Return

Home Affairs Adviser Salahuddin Ahmed confirmed that authorities have already reinstated the restriction on diplomatic passports and will now extend it to ordinary passports.

Once implemented, Bangladeshi passports will again carry the statement that they are valid for travel to all countries of the world except Israel.

Officials said the move aligns with public sentiment and Bangladesh’s traditional foreign policy stance.

Reversal of a 2021 Decision

The phrase was removed in 2021 when the Awami League government launched the country’s electronic passport program.

At the time, authorities introduced new e-passports as part of a large-scale modernization project reportedly worth around Tk 4,500 crore.

The decision to remove the wording generated debate and criticism from various sections of society, with many calling for its restoration.

Previous Efforts to Reinstate the Restriction

According to Beyond Time News, the interim government had already initiated efforts to bring back the clause last year.

On April 7, the Home Ministry issued instructions directing relevant authorities to restore the “Except Israel” wording on passports. However, implementation remained limited to diplomatic passports.

The latest decision now paves the way for broader enforcement across all passport categories.

Bangladesh’s Position on Israel

Bangladesh has never established diplomatic relations with Israel.

For decades, Bangladeshi passports included the restriction, reflecting the country’s official position on the issue. The government maintains support for Palestinian rights and has historically backed international efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Officials stated that restoring the wording is consistent with Bangladesh’s long-standing diplomatic approach.

Passport Design Changes Also Underway

Authorities are also reviewing and updating several passport security and design features.

Reports indicate that new watermark images may be added to future passport editions. One proposed design reportedly features Abu Sayeed with outstretched arms, an image associated with the July protest movement.

At the same time, officials are considering the removal of some existing images, including the mausoleum of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the Mujibnagar Memorial.

Government Says Move Reflects National Policy

Officials from the Home Ministry and the Department of Immigration and Passports said the decision reflects Bangladesh’s historical position, public expectations, and support for the Palestinian cause.

According to Beyond Time News, authorities will now work on implementing the change across the passport system as part of ongoing administrative updates.

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FAQs

What change has Bangladesh made to its passports?

Bangladesh has decided to restore the phrase “Except Israel” on its passports.

Why was the clause removed?

The wording was removed in 2021 during the introduction of Bangladesh’s electronic passport program.

Does Bangladesh recognize Israel?

No, Bangladesh has not established diplomatic relations with Israel.

Will the restriction apply to all passports?

Yes, authorities have announced plans to apply the wording to ordinary passports after already restoring it on diplomatic passports.

Are there other passport changes planned?

Officials are also reviewing passport watermark designs and considering the addition and removal of several images.

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