The government has reinstated the expression “except Israel” on Bangladesh passport to outline that the passport is not valid in Israel.

Deputy Secretary Nilima Afroz announced the decision on Sunday. A notification, dated 7 April, has formalised the decision, she said.

On Saturday, during the “March for Gaza,” participants called on the government to return the statement amid protests against Israeli atrocities against Palestinians.

In 2021, the Awami League government, which allegedly purchased various Israeli hi-tech surveillance equipment to maintain its illegal rule, had removed the long-standing expression from passports, likely to attract increased Israeli support for the regime.