UN Raises Concern Over Al-Qaeda Affiliate’s Attempt to Establish Cells in Bangladesh

The United Nations has raised concerns over attempts by Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) to use Bangladesh for its activities and establish small-scale cells or organisational units in the country.

The concern was highlighted in a recent report by the UN Security Council’s Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team, published on August 10. The report reviews terrorism-related developments in several countries based on information and assessments provided by UN member states, covering the period from December 15, 2025, to June 9, 2026.

According to the report, there has been no major change in Al-Qaeda’s overall position and capabilities in Afghanistan. However, its regional affiliate, AQIS, is seeking to develop a more organised regional structure, according to assessments cited in the report.

The UN assessment indicates that AQIS is increasingly focusing on smaller and dispersed cells rather than large organisational units. It is also reportedly working to develop logistical and financial networks as part of its regional activities.

Regarding Bangladesh, the report says member states have expressed concern that AQIS is seeking to use the country for its activities and establish small-scale organisational units. The report, however, does not provide detailed information about the scale or operational capabilities of any such network inside Bangladesh.

The report also examines the wider security situation in South Asia, including tensions and cross-border violence involving Afghanistan and Pakistan. Member states have warned that prolonged instability could create opportunities for militant and terrorist groups to expand their activities.

AQIS-linked networks and their alleged connections with militant groups operating in the region are also discussed in the report. Several incidents in Pakistan are referenced as part of the broader regional security assessment.

The report further provides information about the whereabouts of AQIS leaders. According to information provided by member states, some senior figures associated with the organisation are based in Kabul. The report also refers to claims that some of them possess identity documents issued by the Taliban authorities.

However, the report does not directly link AQIS to any specific recent attack or terrorist incident in Bangladesh. Instead, the concern focuses on the possibility of organisational expansion and the broader regional security implications.

The UN monitoring team has warned that continued instability between Afghanistan and Pakistan could provide terrorist and militant organisations with opportunities to expand into new areas. It has therefore emphasised the importance of stronger information-sharing and cooperation among countries in South and Central Asia.

For Bangladesh, the UN assessment highlights a potential security concern rather than confirming an established operational network. Any assessment of the situation will require continued monitoring, verification by relevant authorities and cooperation with regional and international partners.