Afghanistan Rejects US Return to Bagram Air Base | Strategic & Sovereignty Clash – 19 Sep 2025

Afghanistan Rejects US Return to Bagram Airbase

Afghanistan’s interim administration has clearly rejected the United States’ intention to regain control of Bagram Air Base. Following a recent announcement by the U.S. President, Kabul officials stated that reestablishing a foreign military base would violate Afghan sovereignty and could threaten regional stability.

In his remarks, the U.S. President said that the United States is trying to retake control of Bagram Air Base, citing its proximity to China. He argued that the location has strategic importance, particularly as a counterbalance to growing Chinese influence in the region.

The ruling Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has responded firmly, making it clear that no action will be permitted that allows foreign troops to return. Taliban representatives emphasized that international relations should be grounded in economic and political cooperation, not in restoring military bases.

Regional powers, including China and Iran, have also stressed respect for Afghan sovereignty and warned against any external military intervention. On the international stage, reactions have varied: some nations applaud Afghanistan’s stance, while others warn that a U.S. return could heighten long-term security risks in the region.

At present, the possibility of a direct military agreement or operation between Washington and Kabul remains uncertain. The U.S. has not formally confirmed any new operation. Some U.S. officials and former diplomats are engaged in limited negotiations with the Taliban over prisoner releases and other issues, but claims about Bagram’s control have not yet been fully validated.

Security analysts suggest that if the U.S. attempts to re-establish presence at Bagram, there will be significant geographical, political, and military consequences. These include responses from regional powers, possible military pushback from the Taliban, and internal resistance among the Afghan population.

Experts believe that retaking Bagram would not only impact U.S. foreign policy but deeply affect the balance of power in the region. For Afghans, this issue remains one of sovereignty; for the U.S., it is becoming a question of strategic positioning.

Will this move bring stability to the region or provoke further conflict? The outcome depends greatly on future U.S. policy, the reaction of the Taliban, and how neighboring countries respond. Observers in the region and worldwide are monitoring developments closely.