US Demands Awami League Ban Lifted, Paving Hasina's Return Path in Bangladesh

• US lawmakers urge Bangladesh's interim government to lift the ban on Sheikh Hasina's Awami League ahead of February elections.
• A letter from US House Foreign Affairs Committee members to Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus warns that excluding a major party undermines fair elections.
• The ban on Awami League and Bangladesh Chhatra League followed the July uprising, but US lawmakers stress individual responsibility over collective blame.
• Yunus claims readiness for Feb 12 elections, alleging foreign-backed disruption, while Hasina calls an election without her party a "coronation."
• Hasina blames Yunus's government for violence and instability, noting India's concern over Bangladesh's chaos.

Why It Matters: US pressure mounts on Yunus to ensure inclusive elections, potentially clearing the way for Hasina's political comeback.