A proposal by former U.S. President Donald Trump to retake Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan was rejected by the Taliban. The base, once the largest American military facility in the country, was abandoned in 2021 when U.S. forces were withdrawn after two decades of war.
It was argued by Trump that U.S. security could be protected and terrorism could be stopped if Bagram were regained. The base was described by him as a strong defense point against extremist groups such as al-Qaida and ISIS, who are still believed to operate in Afghanistan.
A strong response was issued by Taliban officials, who stated that no return of American forces would ever be allowed. Trump’s proposal was described as interference in Afghan sovereignty, and a warning was given that resistance would be faced if any attempt were made.
Concerns were raised by Afghan analysts that violence could be reignited if Bagram were retaken. It was warned that America could be dragged back into conflict, risking both U.S. lives and Afghan stability.
Bagram Air Base was remembered as a symbol of U.S. military power. Thousands of troops were once stationed there, air operations were launched from it, and prisoners were detained inside. When it was closed suddenly in 2021, a power vacuum was created, which was quickly filled by the Taliban.
The debate over Bagram was seen as part of the larger question of America’s role in the region. While a tougher stance against terrorism was called for by Trump, critics said that a return to Afghanistan would be viewed as a repeat of past mistakes and a weakening of U.S. credibility.
For now, a clear message has been delivered by the Taliban: Afghanistan, including Bagram, will remain under their control, and no foreign troops will be allowed back.