Tensions are escalating in Afghanistan concerning the Bagram Airbase. The Taliban has made it clear that it will not cede the airbase to the United States under any circumstances. Sources indicate that the Taliban is prepared to resume war if Washington attempts to forcibly seize the airbase.
Former US President Donald Trump recently warned, emphasizing the strategic importance of the Bagram Airbase and cautioned of dire consequences if the Taliban fails to cooperate.
Security for Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has been heightened in Kandahar. His residence, located in a local businessman’s guesthouse in the Aino Mina area, is under a special security cordon. Internet services have been shut down, and restrictions have been placed on phones and other communication devices. Commandos have been deployed around him.
High-level meetings in Kandahar saw the participation of Taliban Defense Minister Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, Higher Education Minister Nada Mohammad Nadim, senior officials from the intelligence agency, the communications minister, the central bank governor, and Chief Justice Abdul Hakim Haqqani. The meetings concluded that the transfer of the Bagram Airbase is impossible, and the Taliban will respond directly if the US attacks.
Some officials warned Akhundzada that under the 2020 Doha Agreement, the US might return to Afghanistan to counter terrorism. However, Akhundzada insisted on continuing political dialogue while rejecting any foreign military presence.
Bagram Airbase was the largest US military base and the main center of operations for 20 years. It came under Taliban control after the withdrawal of US forces in August 2021. Trump has considered it strategically important against China and terrorism. The Taliban has recently advised the US to respect the 2020 Doha Agreement and avoid repeating past failed policies.