The US spy chief, now in India, earlier on Monday said the “longtime unfortunate persecution, killing, and abuse of religious minorities like Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and others has been a major area of concern for the US government and President Trump and his administration.

Bangladesh's interim government has strongly protested against US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard's comments on minority persecution, calling them misleading and damaging. The government emphasized its fight against extremism and urged Gabbard to base her remarks on facts to avoid stoking sectarian tensions.

The Bangladesh interim government has expressed deep concern over US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard's remarks on an "Islamist caliphate," stating that her comments are both "misleading and damaging" to the country's image and reputation.