Is President (elect) Donald Trump going to impose punitive tariffs on exports from Dhaka? The answer may not be delighting, as it would cause serious damage to Bangladesh’s economy.

In the complex math of geopolitics, where nations align based on shared interests and diplomatic principles, there exist occasional anomalies. Such is the case with the current Yunus-led government in Bangladesh, which has demonstrated a pronounced anti-India, anti-Hindu and pro-Islamist stance, paired with a seeming affinity for the Democratic Party in the United States. This ideological positioning is not without consequence. Particularly in the global political arena shaped by personalities as influential as President Donald Trump, Yunus’s position may invite tangible harsh repercussions for Bangladesh.

From the outset, Yunus has maintained a clear distance from India, with his administration often viewed as leaning against India’s interests. In diplomatic circles, this is a significant departure from the traditionally measured interactions of neighboring states. The advisers in Yunus’s cabinet have also displayed a confrontational approach, adopting “saber-rattling” tactics that have created a sense of unease in Dhaka – Delhi relations. This anti-India posture, alongside Yunus’s close ties with key figures in the Democratic Party – particularly the Clintons, Obama, Joe Biden – positions Bangladesh now in an awkward geopolitical space, where cordial relations with both India and the US are increasingly difficult to maintain.

It’s worth noting that the Yunus administration’s position could have arisen out of ideological convictions or strategic enthusiasm. However, it also points to a lack of foresight regarding the potential backlash. In the ever-evolving realm of international politics, actions and alliances have far-reaching........

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