A potential U.S. military base on Saint Martin’s Island in Bangladesh has ignited a political firestorm, with fresh allegations that Nobel Peace Prize winner Dr. Muhammad Yunus may be involved in facilitating this controversial move. The speculation comes on the heels of a significant political shift in Bangladesh, where former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was recently ousted from power, sparking concerns about foreign influence over the strategically important island.
U.S. Interest in Saint Martin’s Island: A Longstanding Goal
For decades, the United States has shown interest in establishing a military presence on Saint Martin’s Island. During the Cold War, the U.S., through military alliances such as SEATO (Southeast Asia Treaty Organization) and CENTO (Central Treaty Organization), sought footholds in South Asia to counter the spread of communism. Saint Martin’s Island, located in the Bay of Bengal, has long been viewed as a valuable strategic asset due to its location.
As early as the 1960s, the U.S. proposed to Pakistan—when modern-day Bangladesh was still East Pakistan—the idea of a military base on Saint Martin’s Island. The proposal was met with widespread opposition from local political and student groups, who saw it as a threat to national sovereignty. These early protests contributed to the anti-foreign military presence sentiment that persists in the region to this day.
Allegations Against Yunus: Fueling the Controversy
Dr. Muhammad Yunus, widely celebrated for his work in microfinance and poverty alleviation, has found himself at the center of the controversy. Unverified reports suggest Yunus may be acting as a facilitator for U.S. interests on the island, a development that has alarmed nationalists and political groups in Bangladesh. His close ties to Western countries, particularly the United States, have long been viewed with suspicion by the political base of former Prime Minister Hasina.
Though no concrete evidence has been presented, the mere speculation has ignited a political firestorm. Yunus, who has faced scrutiny from the Hasina government in recent years, is now seen by some as a potential conduit for U.S. efforts to secure a foothold on the island.
Hasina’s Warnings: A Reality?
Sheikh Hasina, who led Bangladesh for over a decade, frequently warned about foreign influence over Saint Martin’s Island. She raised concerns that allowing foreign military control of the island could undermine Bangladesh’s sovereignty and security. Throughout her tenure, Hasina made it clear that such a scenario would be disastrous for the country’s independence. Now, with her out of office, her supporters are pointing to her warnings as prescient.
The ousting of Hasina has led to political uncertainty in Bangladesh, which some analysts believe could open the door for foreign powers to exert greater influence. Critics argue that the alleged involvement of Yunus in this process may be an indication that U.S. interests in the island are advancing.
Public Backlash: Growing Protests
News of the potential U.S. military base has sparked widespread protests across Bangladesh. Citizens, political groups, and activists are organizing rallies to oppose any foreign military presence on Bangladeshi soil. For many, the idea of a U.S. base on Saint Martin’s Island represents a violation of Bangladesh’s sovereignty and a potential destabilizing force in the region.
Hasina’s supporters and nationalist factions have been particularly vocal, accusing the current transitional government of being too weak to resist foreign influence. Many see the issue as a direct consequence of Hasina’s ouster, arguing that her removal has paved the way for foreign interests to take advantage of the country’s instability.
The Road Ahead: Uncertain Future
As Bangladesh grapples with its changing political landscape, the future of Saint Martin’s Island hangs in the balance. The growing allegations against Dr. Yunus and the potential U.S. military presence have brought renewed attention to the strategic importance of the island. For now, the debate rages on, with protests likely to continue and political leaders being called on to take a firm stance.
The Biden administration has yet to comment on the controversy, but any move involving a U.S. military base in Bangladesh would likely raise questions about America’s broader strategy in South Asia, particularly at a time when China’s influence in the region is growing. For now, all eyes are on Bangladesh as it navigates this critical moment.
Writer: Dastagir Jahangir, Editor The Voice.