Conflicted: A History Podcast The 1971 Bangladesh War – Part 4: Casus Belli
Nov 2, 2024
Witness the turmoil of the 1971 Bangladesh War as tensions escalate between India and Pakistan. Indira Gandhi weighs her options, responding to a massive refugee crisis while grappling with U.S. indifference. Discover the contrasting views of Archer Blood and Henry Kissinger on U.S. involvement. The podcast highlights George Harrison's charity concert, which raises awareness, alongside India's covert support for the Mukti Bahini guerrillas. As diplomatic efforts flounder, the countdown to decisive military action in December begins.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Realpolitik Over Humanitarianism
- Henry Kissinger prioritized geopolitics over stopping atrocities in East Pakistan.
- Archer Blood tried to expose the violence but Washington chose strategic advantage with China.
Yahya As The China Conduit
- Kissinger used Yahya Khan as a secret intermediary to open relations with China.
- Protecting that channel made the U.S. reluctant to pressure Pakistan over abuses.
Refugee Crisis Became Casus Belli
- Millions of refugees created an immense humanitarian and security burden for India.
- Indira Gandhi framed the influx as an indirect act of aggression justifying possible force.