Afghanistan Firmly Rejects Trump's Demand for Bagram Air Base

Afghanistan's Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, has categorically rejected calls by former U.S. President Donald Trump to reclaim control of the strategically significant Bagram Air Base. In a statement to Tolo News, Muttaqi emphasized that "not even one metre of Afghan land will be given to the Americans," asserting Afghanistan's unwavering stance on its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The Bagram Air Base, located just north of Kabul, was the main hub for U.S. military operations during its two-decade presence in Afghanistan. The base also housed a notorious prison where thousands were detained without charge during the U.S.-led "war on terror," with many reports of abuse and torture. After the withdrawal of U.S. and allied troops in 2021, the Taliban government assumed control of the base.

Trump, during a recent visit to the UK, reignited the debate by stating that the U.S. intended to leave Afghanistan "with strength and dignity" but would have kept Bagram, citing its strategic importance near the China border. He even warned Afghanistan on his social media platform, Truth Social, that "bad things are going to happen" if the base was not returned to the United States.

In response, Afghanistan issued an official statement reaffirming its commitment to a balanced, economy-oriented foreign policy rooted in Islamic principles and mutual interests with all nations. The statement stressed that Afghanistan’s independence and territorial integrity are non-negotiable priorities in all bilateral engagements, including with the United States.

The statement also referenced the Doha Agreement, signed in February 2020, under which the U.S. pledged not to use or threaten force against Afghanistan's territorial integrity or interfere in its internal affairs. Afghanistan called on the U.S. to honor these commitments and adopt a policy of realism and rationality, rather than repeating "past failed approaches."

Despite limited formal diplomatic engagement, the U.S. and the Taliban have continued negotiations on issues such as prisoner exchanges and the release of hostages. However, the issue of Bagram Air Base remains a contentious point, with Afghanistan firmly opposing any return of foreign military control on its soil.

The ongoing dispute highlights Afghanistan's determination to protect its sovereignty against external pressures and serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding international agreements and military presence in the region. Afghanistan remains committed to engaging with the international community on the basis of mutual respect, shared interests, and independence.