The situation surrounding the Bagram Airbase in Afghanistan is intensifying. The Taliban has declared its unwavering stance against handing over the airbase to the United States. According to sources, the Taliban is ready to reignite conflict if the US attempts a forceful takeover of the base.
Former US President Donald Trump had previously underscored the strategic significance of Bagram Airbase, warning of negative outcomes if the Taliban failed to cooperate.
Security for Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has been significantly increased in Kandahar. His residence, situated within a local businessman’s guest house in the Aino Mina region, is now under tight security. Internet services have been suspended, and communication devices are restricted. Commandos are stationed around him.
High-level meetings were held in Kandahar. Key attendees included Taliban Defense Minister Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, Higher Education Minister Nada Mohammad Nadim, high-ranking intelligence officials, the communications minister, the central bank governor, and Chief Justice Abdul Hakim Haqqani. The meetings concluded that the transfer of Bagram Airbase is non-negotiable. The Taliban vowed to retaliate if the US launches an assault.
Some officials alerted Akhundzada that the US might return to Afghanistan under the 2020 Doha Agreement to combat terrorism. However, Akhundzada has prioritized continued political dialogue and rejected any foreign military presence.
The US, having held Bagram Airbase as its primary military hub for two decades, lost control to the Taliban in August 2021. Trump viewed the base as crucial in countering China and terrorism. The Taliban has recently urged the US to abide by the 2020 Doha agreement and abstain from repeating past failures.