US President Donald Trump has asserted control over Afghanistan's Bagram Airbase. Constantly addressing the issue, Trump used his social media platform, Truth Social, to issue an open threat. He warned that if Afghanistan does not return Bagram Airbase to its creator, the United States, the consequences would be severe.
Trump stated that discussions with Afghanistan are ongoing, and they wish to have the Bagram Airbase under their control soon. He hinted, should Afghanistan refuse, that actions will be taken. Previously, Trump indicated that America plans to reacquire a major Afghan airbase near Kabul to maintain oversight over China.
The Taliban, governing Afghanistan, has responded. They clearly stated that the US will not be granted permission for any military return. There's no question of handing over Bagram Airbase to the United States.
Adding to the dialogue, Taliban's Political Director Zakir Jalali commented on X, suggesting an enhanced conversation between Afghanistan and the US. He mentioned fostering economic and political relationships based on mutual respect and shared interests, but firmly objected to any military reoccupation by the US.
Once a Major NATO Hub
It should be noted that Bagram Airbase was a crucial NATO hub for nearly two decades, handed over to the Afghan army shortly before the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan. Trump, during a press conference in Britain, commented that the US gave away Bagram Airbase for free.
Trump's Claims
According to a Reuters report, Trump claimed Bagram Airbase is merely an hour away from China's nuclear weapon development area. He has previously emphasized America's desire to exert control from the Panamanian canal to Greenland, keeping Bagram as a focus. On September 18, he hinted at potential American control over the base. However, the nature of any such agreement remains unclear.
Should a deal materialize, it would signify a major shift for the Taliban, who had fought against the US presence and administration supported by America.
Afghanistan's Largest US Military Base
Bagram Airbase stood as the largest US military base in Afghanistan during the 20-year conflict initiated after the September 11, 2001, attacks by Al-Qaeda on New York and Washington. The airbase housed facilities such as Burger King and Pizza Hut for American troops, alongside electronics stores and Afghan carpet shops. Additionally, it featured a large detention complex.
America Had Once Abandoned Bagram Airbase
An unnamed American official noted that there are currently no plans to reclaim Bagram Airbase, which was vacated along with other regions during the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan. They emphasized the enormity and difficulty of retaking control over the base.
