US Department of State Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said during a recent press conference: "We condemn any instances of violence or intolerance directed toward members of minority communities in any country and have welcomed measures taken by Bangladesh’s interim government to ensure safety and security for all in Bangladesh."

"That’s what we’re watching. That’s what we expect. And that will be what continues," she said.

US spy chief Tulsi Gabbard was recently interviewed by a leading Indian news channel when she referred to the threat posed by Islamist extremists in Bangladesh and said it stems from the idea of governing with the ideology of 'Islamist Caliphate'.

She told NDTV: "The threat of Islamist terrorists and the global effort of different terror groups are rooted in the same ideology and objective-which is to rule or govern with an Islamist caliphate."

Bangladesh government rejects her claims

The interim government of Bangladesh rejected her claims.

Issuing a statement, the Muhammad Yunus-led government said Gabbard's remarks were not based on any 'evidence or specific allegations'.

"They paint an entire nation with a broad and unjustified brush," said the government statement as quoted by Dhaka Tribune.

"In support of our shared global efforts to combat extremism and terrorism, the Interim government of Bangladesh remains committed to engaging in constructive dialogue based on facts and on respect for the sovereignty and security of all nations," the government said.

Bangladesh has witnessed a spike in attacks on minorities, especially Hindus, ever since severe protests against former PM Sheikh Hasina government over a job quota row led to her ouster.