Former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a strong statement Thursday denouncing "barbaric violence" against Hindus and other minority groups in Bangladesh. He also emphasized that, if re-elected, he would bolster U.S.-India relations and his "good friend," Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In his Diwali message, Trump, the current Republican candidate, extended holiday greetings and criticized Democratic rivals, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, for neglecting Hindu communities globally and within the United States.

"I condemn the brutal attacks against Hindus, Christians, and other minorities, who have faced relentless violence and looting in Bangladesh, now a nation in complete turmoil," he posted.

Over the summer, several Hindu citizens in Bangladesh were victims of violence and property destruction following a student-led protest over a contentious quota system. The demonstrations soon escalated into anti-government riots, ultimately leading to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s ouster. Reports say the violence targeting Hindus continued for days even after Hasina fled to India in early August.

"This would never have happened under my watch. Kamala and Joe have ignored Hindus both here and abroad," Trump continued, adding that the Biden-Harris administration has also mishandled issues from "Israel to Ukraine to our southern border." He pledged to "restore America’s strength and achieve peace through power."

Trump further promised that, under his administration, Hindu Americans would be safeguarded from what he described as the "radical left’s anti-religious agenda." Reaffirming his commitment to U.S.-India ties, Trump said, "We will enhance our valuable partnership with India and my friend, Prime Minister Modi."

Trump and Modi developed a close rapport during Trump’s presidency, famously attending the ‘Howdy Modi’ event in Texas in 2019 and the ‘Namaste Trump’ event in Gujarat’s Narendra Modi Stadium the following year.

Earlier in October, Trump expressed his admiration for Modi, referring to him as his "friend" and the "kindest person."

Trump also criticized Vice President Harris, saying her policies would "burden small businesses with excessive regulations and higher taxes." He contrasted this with his own record of cutting taxes, reducing regulations, and promoting American energy, vowing to "Make America Great Again" by rebuilding the economy "bigger and better."

Concluding his message, Trump extended Diwali greetings to all, wishing "the festival of lights brings the triumph of good over evil." His comments come as early voting for the November 5 presidential election is underway in several states.