The United States Embassy has warned American citizens about travel to Bangladesh, citing concerns over potential violence associated with the upcoming 12th National Assembly elections scheduled for next Sunday (January 7). The embassy advised U.S. citizens to take several precautionary measures in response to this situation.

This advisory, reported on Thursday (January 4), was published on the U.S. Embassy's website. It states that the embassy will be closed on election day.

As the embassy website mentions, "On Sunday, January 7, 2024, Bangladesh will hold parliamentary elections. The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka will be closed for public services on this date. U.S. citizens should practise vigilance and remember that the election cycle, although intended to be peaceful, can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Violence may occur with little or no warning preceding the elections, on election day, or during the days or weeks following."

In this scenario, U.S. citizens have been alerted through the embassy's website, "U.S. citizens should exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings.  You should review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates."

Additionally, individuals are urged always to carry charged mobile phones for emergency communications and plan alternative travel routes. 

U.S. Embassy officials have been warned that "U.S. government personnel in Bangladesh live, work, and travel under strict security guidelines and are subject to movement and travel restrictions. During times of demonstrations and civil unrest these travel restrictions may be enhanced."

It also stated that "The U.S. government may have limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Bangladesh due to these travel restrictions."

For the latest security information, U.S. citizens travelling abroad are advised to monitor the Department of State's website regularly where country-specific information, as well as travel warnings and alerts, can be found.