Iran Issues Special Directives to Ensure Safe Passage for Bangladeshi Vessel 'Banglar Joyjatra'

The announcement was confirmed in a press release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, April 20, 2026.

The decision follows a high-level meeting between Bangladesh's Foreign Minister, Khalilur Rahman, and Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Saeed Khatibzadeh, held on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Turkey.

Diplomatic Mediation and Security Guarantees During the meeting, Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman sought the Deputy Foreign Minister's intervention to facilitate the smooth transit of the Bangladeshi vessel. He expressed Dhaka's gratitude for Iran’s previous decision to include Bangladesh in the exclusive list of six nations granted special permission to navigate the strait during current restrictions.

In response, Deputy Foreign Minister Khatibzadeh conducted an immediate inquiry into the matter. By Sunday night, he confirmed that despite the heightened military tensions in the region, specific instructions had been issued to relevant departments to prioritize the security of 'Banglar Joyjatra'.

Geopolitical Context and Balanced Stance The two leaders also discussed the rapidly evolving geopolitical climate in the Gulf region. Minister Rahman reaffirmed Bangladesh's balanced foreign policy, emphasizing the necessity of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the ongoing Middle East crisis. Khatibzadeh praised Bangladesh’s constructive position and extended a formal invitation to Minister Rahman to visit Tehran.

Military and political analysts view this special privilege—granted at a time when Iran is in a standoff with NATO and Western powers—as a clear reflection of the strong and growing diplomatic ties between Dhaka and Tehran.