Dhaka, March 2 -- Bangladesh has said it is "saddened" by the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, issuing a fresh statement after criticism over its earlier response.

In a statement released on Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the government was saddened to learn that Khamenei had been targeted and killed "in violation of international law and norms".

"Bangladesh extends its heartfelt condolences to the brotherly people of Iran," the statement said.

The ministry added that no solution can be achieved through conflict and stressed that disputes must be resolved only through "dialogue, mutual respect and adherence to international law".

The new statement comes a day after the foreign ministry drew critic...