Who Owns Bagram Air Base?

Bagram Air Base, a major U.S. military site for nearly 20 years, is now at the center of a dispute.

The Taliban's Stance

The Taliban, who took control of the base after the U.S. withdrawal in 2021, are refusing to hand it back. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has been pushing to retake the base, even hinting at talks with the Taliban. However, the Taliban are standing firm, saying they won't give up any part of their territory.

Trump's demands have been met with strong words from the Taliban. Their spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, said the U.S. should stick to its agreements and respect Afghanistan's independence. He also reminded the U.S. of the Doha Agreement, where the U.S. promised not to use force against Afghanistan.

The Taliban's Defense Ministry chief, Fasihuddin Fitrat, was even more direct. He said giving up any part of Afghanistan is not an option. This comes as the Taliban celebrate three years since they took over Bagram, showcasing abandoned U.S. equipment.

Trump's Perspective

Trump has been critical of his predecessor, Joe Biden, for the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. He believes the Taliban might be willing to negotiate, especially since they are facing economic troubles and internal conflicts. Trump mentioned that the Taliban might be open to talks because they need U.S. support.

Recent Developments

Despite no formal diplomatic ties, the U.S. and the Taliban have been in contact. Recently, they agreed to exchange prisoners, but details are scarce. The Taliban released photos of their meeting with a U.S. envoy, showing a step towards better relations. However, the U.S. has not commented on these talks.

The Uncertain Future

The situation is complex. The Taliban are holding firm, while Trump is pushing for a return to Bagram. The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the future of Bagram Air Base is a hot topic in U.S.-Taliban relations.