The recent decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to suspend foreign aid for 90 days, announced on the very night of his second-term inauguration, has sent shockwaves across the globe. For countries like Bangladesh, where U.S. assistance plays a pivotal role in development efforts, this move poses significant concerns. Stakeholders, development partners, and analysts are now grappling with the potential fallout, not just for Bangladesh, but for global stability and progress.

Since Bangladesh’s independence, the United States has been a critical development partner, contributing to sectors like food security, health, governance, education, and environmental sustainability. According to USAID, Bangladesh hosts one of the largest U.S. development programs in Asia, underscoring its strategic importance in South Asia.

In recent years, U.S. aid has played a transformative role in addressing the Rohingya crisis, which has burdened Bangladesh with the care of nearly one million refugees. With over $2.5 billion in humanitarian assistance since 2017, the U.S. has been the largest donor to this cause. This aid has not only supported Rohingya refugees but also benefitted host communities in Cox’s Bazar, a region facing immense socio-economic strain.

Beyond humanitarian assistance, U.S. aid fuels critical development projects. In 2023 alone, Bangladesh received $490 million from the U.S., supporting initiatives across various sectors. This aid is indispensable for a country aiming to transition to upper-middle-income status by 2031.

The executive order directing the suspension of U.S. foreign aid marks a seismic shift in American foreign policy. According to the White House, this reassessment aims to ensure that U.S. foreign aid aligns with national........

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