Taliban reject Trump’s bid to retake Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan

Jalalabad, Afghanistan — The Taliban government has firmly rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent proposal to retake control of Bagram Air Base, a key military facility that fell into Taliban hands following America’s tumultuous withdrawal from Afghanistan four years ago.

Despite the lack of clarity surrounding any discussions between U.S. officials and Afghan authorities regarding a potential return to the country, Trump has hinted at the possibility of the Taliban considering the re-entry of U.S. military forces. The Taliban, who have been grappling with various challenges such as economic turmoil, internal divisions, and the presence of rival militant groups since reclaiming power in 2021, have been urged by Trump to adopt a more pragmatic and rational approach.

In response to Trump’s assertions, the chief Taliban spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, emphasized Afghanistan’s commitment to an economy-focused foreign policy and its desire to cultivate positive relationships with all nations based on mutual interests. Mujahid underscored the importance of Afghanistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in all diplomatic engagements, citing the Doha Agreement which prohibits the use of force or interference in the country’s internal affairs.

While Mujahid refrained from addressing specific queries regarding talks with the Trump administration regarding Bagram Air Base, he emphasized the need for the U.S. to honor its commitments and respect Afghanistan’s sovereignty. Notably, last year, the Taliban commemorated the third anniversary of their control over Bagram Air Base with a significant military parade showcasing abandoned U.S. military equipment, drawing attention from the White House.

Trump has been vocal in criticizing his predecessor, Joe Biden, for the handling of the U.S. troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, labeling it as a display of “gross incompetence” and underscoring the need for a reassessment of the situation. The complexities surrounding the potential return of U.S. forces to Bagram Air Base continue to unfold, with both sides navigating a delicate diplomatic landscape in the aftermath of America’s departure from Afghanistan.