Donald Trump celebrating Diwali at the White House with the Indian community when he was the President. (Photo: White House)
Former US President Donald Trump has criticized the Muhammad Yunus-led administration in Bangladesh for failing to protect Hindus while pledging to strengthen ties with India and his “good friend,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Trump’s remarks, part of a Diwali message shared on X, also targeted his Democratic rival, Kamala Harris, ahead of the upcoming November 5 elections.
In his post, Trump strongly condemned the ongoing violence against Hindus, Christians, and other minority groups in Bangladesh, where mobs have reportedly been attacking and looting. “I strongly condemn the barbaric violence against Hindus, Christians, and other minorities who are getting attacked and looted by mobs in Bangladesh, which remains in a total state of chaos. It would have never happened on my watch,” he declared.
Trump also promised to protect Hindu Americans from “anti-religion agendas” and to advocate for their religious freedoms. His stance diverged from that of the U.S. State Department, which had previously issued a more neutral statement, calling for the protection of minorities in Bangladesh without specifying any community. People generally view the current U.S. administration as supporting Bangladesh’s interim government.
“Kamala and Joe have ignored Hindus across the world and in America. They have wreaked havoc from Israel to Ukraine to our own southern border, but we will rebuild America’s strength and restore peace through it. Trump stated in his message. He also criticized Harris, asserting, “Kamala Harris will destroy your small businesses with more regulations and higher taxes. By contrast, I cut taxes, cut regulations, unleashed American energy, and built the greatest economy in history. We will do it again, bigger and better than ever before, and we will make America great again.”
Since August, members of Bangladesh’s Hindu community have reportedly faced attacks, with properties and shops vandalized by Islamist groups. India has raised concerns over the issue multiple times, including through statements from Prime Minister Modi. Muhammad Yunus took control of Bangladesh after a popular uprising ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August. Hasina subsequently sought refuge in India.
Trump added, “Under my administration, we will also strengthen our excellent partnership with India and my wonderful friend, Prime Minister Modi. Also, a prosperous Diwali to all. I hope the festival of lights leads to the victory of good over evil.”
During his presidency, Trump maintained a close relationship with Modi, with both leaders publicly showcasing their camaraderie. In 2019, Modi joined Trump at the Howdy Modi community event in Texas, and in 2020, Trump participated in the Namaste Trump event at the Narendra Modi cricket stadium in Ahmedabad.
