U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that the Bagram Airbase in Afghanistan will remain under American control, asserting that no one else will be allowed to take over the strategic facility.
Speaking to U.S. troops at Al Udeid Airbase in Qatar, Trump sharply criticized the Biden administration for withdrawing from Bagram, calling the decision a major strategic mistake.
Located in Parwan province, about 60 kilometers north of Kabul, Bagram Airbase has long held significant strategic importance, serving as a central hub for U.S. and NATO military operations in Afghanistan for many years.
Trump stated: “Ending conflicts is one of my top priorities, but the United States will not hesitate to use force in defense of its allies.”
He emphasized that reclaiming and maintaining control of Bagram Airbase is essential for U.S. strategic interests and said he would take all necessary steps to restore its role if given the chance.
In 2020, the United States and the Taliban signed an agreement for the withdrawal of international forces from Afghanistan by May 2021. On July 2, 2021, U.S. forces officially vacated Bagram, and by August 15, the airbase was formally handed over to the Taliban.
Trump’s recent remarks could reignite geopolitical discourse in the region, particularly at a time when Afghanistan remains unstable and regional powers continue to vie for influence.
