Afghan Government Rejects US Pressure Over Bagram

Afghanistan’s Taliban-led administration has strongly rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s warning over the return of Bagram Airbase, declaring it will not surrender “an inch of land” and is prepared to fight for decades if Washington attempts to reclaim the site.

Defense Minister Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid emphasized that Kabul will resist any American move to retake the facility. “If the United States desires Bagram again, we are prepared to fight against them for another 20 years,” he stated, calling the issue a matter of sovereignty and rejection of foreign occupation.

The remarks were echoed by senior officials, including Deputy Intelligence Chief Mullah Tajmir Jawad and Foreign Ministry representatives. Afghan Chief of Staff Fasihuddin Fitrat also stressed, “There can be no accord to transfer even one inch of Afghan land.”

These firm declarations followed Trump’s warning from Washington, where he threatened “serious consequences” if the base was not restored to U.S. control. While the White House has not outlined specific actions, the comments have sparked concerns of renewed tensions.

Bagram, once the largest U.S. military base in Afghanistan, played a central role in combat, logistics, and intelligence operations for two decades before being vacated in 2021 after the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces.

Experts note the base’s strategic value, highlighting its long runway, fortified perimeter, and advanced facilities. However, they caution that any American attempt to retake it would require significant military resources and risk sparking another prolonged conflict.

Analysts warn that the standoff comes at a fragile time for Afghanistan, facing economic crisis, humanitarian challenges, and strained regional ties. Kabul, however, has made its position clear: Bagram will not be handed over, and Afghan sovereignty remains non-negotiable.