US, Bangladesh, Myanmar…, a new great game is set to begin in India’s neighbour, the architect is…, not China, Pakistan
A major geopolitical shift may be taking in Bangladesh, with the United States playing a key role behind the scenes. US President Donald Trump is said to be the main strategist behind this move, often referred to as a new “Great Game.” The current government in Bangladesh often criticized for being unelected and for promoting Islamist ideologies has reportedly agreed, with backing from the US and the United Nations, to set up a so-called “humanitarian corridor” extending into Myanmar’s Rakhine State. While this decision has sparked quiet criticism within Bangladesh, few are openly speaking out due to America’s involvement.
Many analysts believe this proposed corridor could create serious concerns for India.
US allegedly supporting the Arakan Army
Defense expert Brahma Chellaney points out that the Arakan Army now controls large parts of Myanmar’s Rakhine State, including the entire 271-kilometer border with Bangladesh. Interestingly, the most recent wave of Rohingya refugees is not fleeing from the Myanmar military, but rather from attacks by the anti-junta Arakan Army. In a surprising twist, these Rohingya fighters are now aligning with their former enemies the Myanmar armed forces for protection.
Humanitarian corridor or US strategy?
Experts argue that the proposed humanitarian corridor in Myanmar isn’t just about aid it could be part of a larger US-led geopolitical strategy. Although the corridor is presented as a way to help the suffering Rohingya population, many believe it will actually fall under the control of the Arakan Army, a rebel group opposed to the Rohingya. This has led to concerns that the real aim is to use the corridor to supply military aid to these rebels and fuel a proxy war against Myanmar’s military junta, with the US at the helm.
Reports indicate that the United States has already provided nearly USD 400 million in “non-lethal” support to various insurgent groups in Myanmar. Some of this aid possibly including weapons has reportedly found its way into India’s Manipur state.
Growing resistance in Bangladesh
Inside Bangladesh, there’s growing unease. The opposition party BNP has questioned how an unelected government can agree to such a strategic decision. Senior leader Amir Khosru voiced strong concerns, asking if the country is being pushed toward conflict, comparing the situation to that of Gaza. Many in Bangladesh fear their nation is being dragged into a dangerous geopolitical game that doesn’t serve its own interests.
This situation could also pose a direct threat to India’s Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMTTP), which is designed to connect India’s remote northeastern states to the Bay of Bengal through Myanmar’s Rakhine State. That region is now under increasing influence of the Arakan Army.
Why the US is targeting Myanmar’s army
The root of the US hostility toward Myanmar’s military lies in its ties with China. With Chinese support, Myanmar offers Beijing a gateway to the Bay of Bengal—an important strategic advantage. Russia is also expanding its presence in the country. These developments are seen as major setbacks for US influence in the region.
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