The history of US foreign policy is marked by decisive actions against individuals and regimes perceived as threats to global security as well as the US citizens. When the Taliban, led by Mullah Omar, refused to extradite Osama bin Laden who was considered as the mastermind of 9/11 attack, the US invoked its right to self-defense under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. The Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF), passed by Congress shortly thereafter, granted the President broad authority to respond. These actions were not only about retaliation but also a declaration that harboring terrorists would come at a grave cost.

This historical precedent is now being invoked to analyze the growing concerns surrounding Bangladesh under the leadership of Muhammad Yunus. Comparisons to Afghanistan, though starkly different in context, highlight the potential for Bangladesh to become a focal point of geopolitical tension. Yunus, now, faces allegations of complicity in actions that could destabilize the region and provoke a strong response from the United States.

The controversy centers around the apparent protection and rehabilitation of Major (sacked) Syed Ziaul Haque, a figure designated by the US as a terrorist and accused of orchestrating the brutal murder of American citizen Avijit Roy. Ziaul, who had fled Bangladesh after a failed coup attempt and sought refuge in Pakistan under the aegis of ISI, recently returned to Bangladesh using a Pakistani passport. This return was facilitated by a policy change under Yunus, which removed mandatory security clearance for Pakistani nationals. Once back in the country, Ziaul applied for acquittal from all charges, including his........

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