Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has accused the United States of orchestrating unrest in Bangladesh to remove her from power. In an interview with The Economic Times, Hasina alleged that the U.S. sought to undermine her leadership by conspiring with domestic fundamentalist groups. She claimed that if she had agreed to cede control of Saint Martin Island to the U.S., she might have retained her position.
Saint Martin Island, located in the north-eastern Bay of Bengal, spans just three square kilometers. Situated approximately 9 kilometers south of the Cox’s Bazar-Tankarf Peninsula, it is known locally as Narikel Jinjira (Coconut Island) or Daruchini Island (Cinnamon Island). The island is Bangladesh’s only coral island and is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including blue waters and diverse marine life. It serves as a popular winter tourist destination and supports a local population of around 5,000 people who rely on fishing, rice-coconut farming, and tourism.
Dispute with Myanmar
Bangladesh and Myanmar have previously disputed the sovereignty of Saint Martin Island, particularly concerning maritime boundary demarcation and fishing rights. In 2012, the International Maritime Law Tribunal awarded Bangladesh sovereignty over the island.
China’s Role and Regional Dynamics
Hasina’s allegations may also be influenced by China’s strategic interests in the region. China, through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), is developing military bases and economic corridors to expand its influence in the Indian Ocean. Bangladesh is a partner in this initiative. The U.S. views China’s growing presence in the region with concern, particularly given India’s opposition to the BRI due to its route through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. To counteract China’s influence, the U.S. has strengthened its strategic partnership with India, evident through initiatives like the Quad and Malabar naval exercises. Hasina warned Bangladeshis not to be misled by fundamentalist forces and emphasized the geopolitical stakes surrounding Saint Martin Island.