UN Raises Concerns Over Attempts by al-Qaeda to Establish Cells in Bangladesh

Darwin, 15 August : The United Nations has expressed concern over attempts to establish cells of al-Qaeda in Bangladesh. The concern was raised in a report by the UN Security Council’s Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team.

The report, based on assessments by member states, covers the situation from December 15, 2025, to June 9 this year. It was published on August 10.

According to the report, al-Qaeda’s presence and strength in Afghanistan remain unchanged. Its South Asian affiliate, al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), has evolved from a fragmented group into a regional organization.

Instead of operating through large units, it has established small or dispersed cells to develop logistical support and financial networks.

The report cited the attack on Delhi’s Red Fort as an example of AQIS activities. The organization was formally blamed for the attack in November last year. In this context, the report expressed concern over attempts to establish AQIS cells or small organizational units in Bangladesh, saying the group is trying to use Bangladesh to serve its interests.

The Sanctions Monitoring Team also noted that AQIS is not currently listed under UN sanctions. It said AQIS has served as the core base of Ittehad-ul-Mujahideen Pakistan (IMP), a group blamed for several attacks, including an incident on May 9.

On that day, a suicide bombing and a vehicle-borne explosives attack took place near a security checkpoint in Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, killing 21 people.

According to the report, AQIS’s top leadership is based in Kabul, Afghanistan. Its leaders have reportedly been issued tazkiras—identity documents provided by the Taliban. This indicates close ties between the Taliban and AQIS.

Regarding the situation in Central and South Asia, the report said regional tensions remain high as cross-border attacks between Pakistan and Afghanistan continue. The Taliban government continues to support Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), while publicly denying that it provides shelter to any terrorist group.

Member states are concerned that the ongoing conflict could create new opportunities for terrorist groups, posing additional security challenges to the region.