Just four days before the U.S. presidential election, Donald Trump, a candidate for the presidency, posted on the microblogging site X on Thursday, October 31, condemning alleged violence against Hindu, Christian, and other minority communities in Bangladesh. Trump claimed that minorities in Bangladesh are facing organized attacks, looting, and violence, leading to a state of chaos in the country.
Trump’s post further stated, “I strongly condemn the brutal violence against Hindus, Christians, and other minorities in Bangladesh. They are being assaulted and looted in organized attacks. Bangladesh is now in complete disarray.”
However, Trump’s claims contrast with recent developments in Bangladesh. Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina reportedly left the country amid a popular uprising on August 5, leading to India voicing concerns over alleged persecution of minorities in Bangladesh. At the time, Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus invited Indian journalists to investigate the situation on the ground.
Trump also asserted in his post that, had he been president, these incidents would not have occurred, alleging that the current U.S. administration under President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris has neglected Hindu communities globally. Trump further criticized Biden and Harris, attributing failures to their leadership in areas ranging from Ukraine and Israel to the southern U.S. border.
“This would never happen under my watch,” Trump stated. “Kamala and Joe Biden have neglected Hindus in the U.S. and worldwide. From Israel to Ukraine and our southern border, their record is poor. But we will restore American strength and bring peace through power.”
In the same post, Trump expressed solidarity with Hindu Americans and underscored his commitment to friendship with India, including a close relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “We will protect American Hindus from the anti-religious bigotry of the radical left. We will fight for freedom. If elected, my administration will strengthen our friendship with India and good friend Narendra Modi.” Trump concluded by wishing Hindus a happy Diwali.
The post is seen as an appeal to Hindu and Indian-American voters, with analysts speculating that Trump’s statement could be aimed at attracting support from this demographic. Since the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government, India has raised concerns about the alleged persecution of minorities in Bangladesh, and Trump’s post appears to signal alignment with these concerns.
The U.S. presidential election will take place on November 5, where Trump, the Republican candidate, is set to contest against Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee. Trump lost to Joe Biden in the previous election.
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