Is Bangladesh's New Leadership Creating a TTP-Like Challenge for Pakistan?

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Is Bangladesh's New Leadership Creating a TTP-Like Challenge for Pakistan?

Synopsis

As radical Islamic factions gain traction in Bangladesh under Muhammad Yunus, what challenges may arise for Pakistan and India? Explore the complex dynamics between the Hizb-ut-Tahrir and the ISI, and the impact on regional stability.

Key Takeaways

  • Bangladesh's political landscape is shifting under Muhammad Yunus.
  • The Hizb-ut-Tahrir is growing increasingly critical of Pakistan.
  • Radical groups are establishing a foothold in Bangladesh.
  • Pakistan's foreign policy is impacting regional dynamics.
  • Tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan remain high.

New Delhi, Oct 23 (NationPress) Bangladesh is currently facing significant turmoil under the leadership of Jamaat-e-Islami supported Muhammad Yunus, especially due to the influence of radical Islamic factions. Following Yunus's ascent, the nation's foreign policy has increasingly aligned with Pakistan, raising concerns in India.

With unrestricted access to Bangladesh, the ISI has established terror training camps, where numerous radicalized youths are being indoctrinated. Although many terror factions in Bangladesh follow the directives of the ISI, one particular group has become a source of contention.

The Hizb-ut-Tahrir (HuT), a radical Islamic organization, is at odds with Pakistan. The stance taken by Islamabad regarding Israel and its approach towards the Taliban has displeased the HuT.

According to Intelligence Bureau officials, the HuT has refrained from participating in any ISI-led initiatives in Bangladesh, choosing instead to remain independent and focused on establishing a Caliphate.

Under Yunus's administration, the HuT has experienced a tumultuous relationship. After the ousting of Sheikh Hasina and the rise of Yunus, the HuT became more active, even hosting a seminar discussing India's influence in Bangladesh.

They expressed their views on the necessity of creating a Caliphate but grew increasingly frustrated with Pakistan's attempts to exert control over Bangladesh.

Many in the HuT have started to perceive Pakistan as more of a Western-influenced entity rather than a true advocate for their cause. This sentiment intensified following Israel's retaliatory actions following the Hamas attack. Recently, Pakistan has largely aligned its position with the United States.

The HuT's criticism is directed towards Pakistan's double standards. On one hand, the ISI has enabled Hamas operatives to collaborate with terrorists from Hizbul Mujahideen, Jaish-e-Mohammad, and Lashkar-e-Taiba. On the other hand, as Israel escalated its offensive against Hamas, Pakistan echoed the United States' narrative, prompting dissatisfaction from the HuT regarding Pakistan's stance on Israel.

Founded in Jerusalem in 1953, the HuT is a pan-Islamist organization dedicated to establishing an Islamic Caliphate. The group made its debut in Bangladesh in 2000, aiming to extend its influence in the region.

Aside from the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the HuT also disapproves of Pakistan's position on the Afghan Taliban, especially given the rising tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan.

Although fighting has ceased, the ceasefire remains fragile. When Pakistan launched airstrikes against the Taliban, the HuT issued a strong condemnation of these actions, labeling them as audacious and indicative of Pakistan's temporary alignment with the United States.

While the HuT may have celebrated the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government, they quickly recognized that Yunus was merely a puppet of Islamabad.

Under pressure from Pakistan, the Yunus administration has taken stringent measures against the HuT, including the arrest of prominent leader Imtiaz Selim.

Experts suggest that the HuT could pose serious challenges for both the Bangladeshi government and Pakistan moving forward. Officials warn that the HuT may evolve into a new Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) for the ISI regarding its ambitions in Bangladesh.

Point of View

I observe that the evolving dynamics in Bangladesh reveal a precarious balance of power influenced by external factors. While the rise of groups like Hizb-ut-Tahrir presents challenges, it is imperative to approach the situation with a focus on dialogue and collaboration to maintain regional peace.
NationPress
23/10/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current political situation in Bangladesh?
Bangladesh is currently under the leadership of Muhammad Yunus, backed by Jamaat-e-Islami, facing challenges from radical Islamic groups.
How does Pakistan influence Bangladesh's foreign policy?
The shift in Bangladesh's foreign policy towards Pakistan has raised concerns, especially regarding security and regional stability.
What role does Hizb-ut-Tahrir play in Bangladesh?
The Hizb-ut-Tahrir is a radical Islamic group focused on establishing a Caliphate and has expressed dissatisfaction with Pakistan's influence in Bangladesh.
What challenges could arise from the HuT's actions?
Experts suggest that the Hizb-ut-Tahrir could pose significant challenges for both the Bangladeshi government and Pakistan, potentially leading to instability.
What is the significance of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in this context?
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a point of contention for the Hizb-ut-Tahrir, influencing their perception of Pakistan's actions and alliances.
Nation Press