The US Embassy in Bangladesh has issued an alert for its citizens living here asking them to avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings.

“US citizens should practice vigilance and remember that demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings,” the embassy said on its website on Monday.

The embassy also suggested US citizens to review their personal security plans, remain aware of the surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates.

“There are reports that the student demonstrations against quotas in government jobs have expanded, spreading throughout the city of Dhaka, its neighboring areas, and other cities. The situation has become increasingly volatile. Protests like these may affect local transportation services and make getting in and out of Dhaka difficult,” it said.

Meanwhile, US Department of State Spokesperson Mathew Miller at a regular media briefing in Washington said the "freedom of expression and peaceful assembly" are essential building blocks of any thriving democracy.

"We condemn any violence against peaceful protesters. Our thoughts are with those who have been impacted by this violence," he said during the briefing.