In brief
In recent comments, a Taliban official repudiated former President Trump's hopes of retaking Bagram Airbase, which the US abandoned in 2021. Zakir Jalal from the Taliban's foreign ministry stated that discussions prior to their return to power dismissed any military presence by the US in Afghanistan. Trump claimed the base's strategic significance regarding China, but the Taliban reiterated their stance against foreign military presence. This development follows ongoing talks between the US and Taliban officials on various matters.
A Taliban official has rejected the idea that the US could retake a key airbase in Afghanistan after President Donald Trump told reporters he wanted it back.
Zakir Jalal, who works in the Taliban's foreign ministry, stated that the US maintaining any military presence in Afghanistan was completely rejected during talks before the Taliban returned to power. This assertion comes in response to Trump hinting that retaking Bagram airbase might be possible due to the US needing things from Afghanistan.
The airbase was handed over to the Afghan military shortly before the Taliban regained control of the country. Trump, speaking at a press conference in the UK, insisted the US gave it to them for nothing and emphasized the strategic value of Bagram in relation to China, highlighting that it is close to areas where China develops its nuclear arsenal.
Despite Trump's claims, there is no substantiated evidence that China has established a military presence at Bagram. The Taliban have denied such allegations. A BBC investigation found little activity at the base since the Taliban's return and no evidence that supports Trump's assertions.
The Chinese foreign ministry remarked that they respect Afghanistan's sovereignty, reinforcing the Taliban's stance on territorial integrity. Jalal elaborated further on social media stating, Throughout history, Afghans have not accepted a military presence, and this possibility was completely rejected during the Doha talks and agreement, but the doors are open to other engagement.”
Ongoing discussions between the US and Taliban representatives have previewed issues regarding American citizens detained in Afghanistan, highlighting the delicate dynamics of US-Taliban relations following the withdrawal.
