Taliban Reject Trump’s Bid to Retake Bagram Base
The Taliban government has dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to take back Bagram Air Base, which American forces vacated in 2021. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid called the demand unrealistic and urged Washington to respect Afghanistan’s sovereignty.
Trump’s Position
Trump has publicly stated that he wants Bagram returned “right away,” though no formal agreement or negotiation with the Taliban has been confirmed. He warned that “bad things will happen” if Afghanistan refuses.
Sovereignty & International Agreements
The Taliban pointed to the 2020 Doha Agreement, under which the U.S. pledged not to interfere in Afghanistan’s internal affairs or violate its territorial integrity. They said reclaiming Bagram would directly breach that commitment.
Regional Response
Afghanistan’s Defense Ministry chief Fasihuddin Fitrat asserted that giving up “even one inch” of Afghan land was non-negotiable. Analysts have also noted that any U.S. attempt to retake Bagram would face severe logistical and security challenges, especially amid ongoing instability in the region.
