Bangladesh Signals Tough Line on Arakan Army, Rohingya Repatriation

Reading Time: 2 minutes Bangladesh has issued a clear and measured warning to the Arakan Army (AA): facilitate the safe and voluntary repatriation of Rohingya refugees and ensure human rights are upheld or face serious consequences. Should AA forces enter Bangladeshi territory following any violations, Dhaka has indicated it is prepared to respond with military force. In a recent policy briefing, National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman confirmed that Bangladesh is open to providing humanitarian assistance such as food aid to areas of Rakhine State under AA control. However, such support is strictly conditional. “We are prepared to support peace and repatriation,” Rahman stated. “But this must be voluntary, safe, and verifiable. If there are violations, especially if AA fighters enter our territory or commit atrocities against the Rohingya then Bangladesh will respond accordingly, including with security measures.” Military Action Not Without Precedent This is not an empty threat. In August