Bay of Tensions: Myanmar’s Unrest, Bangladesh's Struggles, and U.S. Naval Gambit in Indo-Pacific

Abstract

This research provides a comprehensive examination of interconnected effects of Myanmar’s and Bangladesh’s internal crises on the strategic trajectories of India and China, as well as the implications of U.S. ambitions for a potential naval base on St. Martin’s Island. Myanmar’s ongoing unrest, characterized by severe internal conflict and a humanitarian crisis, coupled with Bangladesh’s economic and social challenges stemming from an influx of refugees, creates a volatile environment that undermines regional stability. These domestic upheavals significantly shape the strategic calculations of major regional powers, particularly India and China, they compete for influence in the Indo- Pacific. This explores how these crises alter the regional balance of power, impacting India’s strategic posture and its relations with both Bangladesh and Myanmar, while also considering China’s interests. Furthermore, the U.S. ambition to establish a naval base on St. Martin’s Island adds complex layer, raising critical questions about sovereignty and regional security. This critical development could further shift power dynamics and affect stability in the region. By analyzing recent geopolitical developments and strategic manoeuvres, the study aims to illuminate the intricate relationships among these factors, offering a nuanced understanding of how internal crises in Myanmar and Bangladesh intersect with the strategies of major powers.