The United States, as the epicenter of global politics, holds the power to resolve many complex issues permanently if it so desires. Notably, suppressing the rise of religious extremism and radicalism is well within its capability. However, the reality is that the U.S. administration has often been accused of fostering extremism for its own interests or interpreting situations to its advantage.
The so-called Deep State of America—an invisible yet influential force operating beyond the visible power structure—has repeatedly shaped the course of global politics. This network, comprising the administration, intelligence agencies, military, diplomatic circles, and corporate lobbies, has become an undeniable force in international affairs.
Whether we acknowledge it or not, countries like Bangladesh find it difficult to adopt an independent diplomatic stance outside this sphere of influence. The U.S. holds particularly strong sway over Muslim-majority nations, making it nearly impossible for any country to craft a fully autonomous foreign policy while avoiding American influence.
U.S. Concerns: Strategy or Reality?
During her visit to India, U.S. intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard made remarks about Bangladesh that have sparked fresh controversy in international circles. In an interview with NDTV in Delhi, she raised concerns about the rights violations and persecution of minority communities in Bangladesh. She also issued a warning about the global threat posed by Islamic extremism and the concept of a so-called caliphate.
The key points of Gabbard’s statement were:
• Religious minorities in Bangladesh have faced continuous persecution for years.
• Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, and other religious groups are victims of oppression.
• The rise of Islamic extremism in Bangladesh could pose a significant threat to global security.
• The Trump administration is committed to addressing this crisis.
Bangladesh's Response
In response, the interim government of Bangladesh swiftly issued a statement rejecting Gabbard’s comments as baseless and misleading. The government also described her remarks as an attempt to tarnish the country’s image. The core arguments of Bangladesh’s response were:
• Bangladesh has a longstanding tradition of peace and religious tolerance.
• The country has made significant progress in combating extremism.
• Associating Bangladesh with the idea of an Islamic caliphate is both misleading and dangerous.
• While extremism remains a challenge, it is a broader security issue and not merely a matter of minority persecution.
Is Bangladesh Truly a Hub of Extremism?
There is no doubt that religious intolerance and political violence have escalated over the past few decades. Reports of minority persecution have surfaced repeatedly since Bangladesh’s independence. In recent years, cases of oppression against indigenous communities, political riots, illegal land grabs targeting the Hindu community, and attacks on shrines and places of worship have emerged. Allegations have also been directed at individuals closely associated with the previous government.
However, it is crucial to recognize that following the July Movement, not only minority communities but also the general population of Bangladesh have faced increasing insecurity. Incidents of rape, looting, and mob violence have risen. Given this reality, is it reasonable to single out minority persecution as the primary concern?
The Strategic Angle
Religious extremism has often been used as a tool by international powers. If the U.S. were genuinely committed to eradicating extremism, it could do so within a week. Yet, historical patterns suggest that Washington has instead leveraged extremism for its own strategic gains. The U.S. foreign policy double standards have been evident in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, and Libya.
In light of this, if Bangladesh’s government outright dismisses U.S. concerns, it risks ignoring genuine issues. Conversely, blindly accepting Gabbard’s claims would open the door to foreign interference in the country’s sovereignty and internal politics.
Instead, Bangladesh aspires to be a contributor to global peace and stability. While security challenges exist at various levels, addressing them requires constructive international cooperation rather than one-sided criticism.
Bangladesh is an emerging nation, making steady progress in political, social, and economic spheres. Extremism and violence remain challenges, but these are not exclusive to Bangladesh—they are global issues. The U.S. administration should adopt a balanced policy that ensures the protection of religious minorities while also addressing broader security concerns.
Looking Ahead
Denial does not resolve crises. A pragmatic approach—acknowledging the realities and addressing them strategically—is the best course of action. The people of Bangladesh should strive for peaceful coexistence, while the international community should adopt a cooperative approach rather than resorting to unilateral criticism—if they truly seek a balanced and stable world.
At its core, America's true interest lies in maintaining global dominance, expanding economic and military influence, and ensuring that Bangladesh does not fall into China’s sphere of influence. Issues like democracy and human rights often serve as convenient pretexts for diplomatic pressure.
Self-interest drives us all—including Bangladesh. Perhaps that’s why we’re considering bringing Elon Musk’s Starlink internet service to Bangladesh, no matter how expensive it might be!
Author: Journalist
March 18, 2025