US Eyes Reclaiming Bagram Airfield, Taliban Says No

 US President Donald Trump declared that the United States was “working to retrieve” Bagram Airfield, the massive military base abandoned during the chaotic 2021 withdrawal. Trump argued the airfield holds “strategic significance” because of its proximity to China’s nuclear facilities.

Speaking alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London, Trump told reporters:

“We want that base back. It’s an hour away from where China manufactures its nuclear weapons.”

Background

Bagram Airfield, originally built in the 1950s, was significantly expanded during the US-led war in Afghanistan following the 9/11 attacks. For two decades, it served as Washington’s main operational hub until the fall of the Afghan government and the Taliban takeover in August 2021.

The February 2020 Doha Agreement between the US and the Taliban mandated the withdrawal of foreign troops, leading to Bagram’s eventual handover to Afghan forces before being seized by the Taliban.

Taliban Response

Taliban officials quickly dismissed Trump’s idea of retaking the base.

• Zakir Jalal, a foreign ministry spokesperson, stated on X:

“Afghanistan and the United States should engage… but without a US military footprint. The door is open for economic and political ties.”

US Military & Expert Assessments

A senior US defense official told Reuters that retaking Bagram would resemble “a re-invasion”, requiring over 10,000 troops as well as advanced air defense systems to hold the sprawling complex.

Military analysts added that securing the base would be a “massive undertaking”, given its vulnerability to rocket fire and persistent threats from groups such as the Islamic State and al Qaeda.

Some former US officials argue the risks and costs far outweigh the benefits, even with Bagram’s proximity to China’s Xinjiang nuclear facilities.

Global Implications

The debate underscores the intensifying US-China strategic rivalry, with Afghanistan once again caught in great-power competition.

However, any renewed US military footprint could destabilize the fragile security situation, provoke local resistance, and complicate the Taliban’s already fragile governance.

FAQs

1. What is Bagram Airfield?

Bagram Airfield, located about 60 km north of Kabul, was the largest US military base in Afghanistan. It served as a logistics, air operations, and detention hub during the war.

2. Why does the US want Bagram back now?

Trump argues the base is strategically valuable because it lies close to China’s Xinjiang region, where Beijing operates nuclear facilities.

3. What are the challenges of retaking Bagram?

Experts say it would require over 10,000 troops, advanced air defenses, and massive logistical support — effectively resembling a new invasion of Afghanistan.

4. What is the Taliban’s position?

The Taliban firmly reject any renewed US military presence but say they are open to political and economic ties with Washington.

5. Could retaking Bagram destabilize the region?

Yes. Analysts warn that a US return would likely provoke local resistance, strengthen extremist groups, and undermine fragile stability in Afghanistan.