JUST IN: Taliban rejects Trump’s demand to return Bagram Air Base, pledging readiness to fight for 20 more years if necessary to defend Afghanistan’s sovereignty.

*Taliban Rejects Trump's Demand to Return Bagram Air Base, Pledges to Defend Afghanistan's Sovereignty*

The Taliban has firmly rejected former US President Donald Trump's demand to return the Bagram Air Base to US control, emphasizing that Afghanistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable. The Taliban's stance comes after Trump warned Afghanistan of "bad things" if it refused to return the airbase, which has been under Taliban control since the US withdrawal in 2021.

*The Strategic Importance of Bagram Air Base*

Bagram Air Base, located 40 miles north of Kabul, is a strategic military installation that has been a crucial hub for various foreign powers throughout history. Built by the Soviet Union in the 1950s, the base was later expanded by the US during its two-decade occupation of Afghanistan. The base's significance lies in its proximity to China, Russia, and Central Asia, making it a vital location for military and surveillance operations ¹.

*Taliban's Resolve to Defend Afghanistan's Sovereignty*

The Taliban's leadership has made it clear that they will not compromise on Afghanistan's sovereignty, with Defence Minister Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid stating, "If you don't leave and want bases, we are ready to fight you for another 20 years." This resolute stance underscores the Taliban's determination to protect Afghanistan's interests and maintain control over its territory ².

*US-Taliban Relations*

Despite the Taliban's rejection of Trump's demands, there have been reports of indirect talks between the US and Taliban officials. Adam Boehler, Trump's special hostage envoy, and Zalmay Khalilzad, former US special envoy to Afghanistan, recently met with Taliban foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to discuss the fate of Americans detained in Afghanistan. However, the Taliban has emphasized that any dialogue with the US must exclude military reoccupation ³.

*Implications of the Standoff*

The standoff between the US and Taliban over Bagram Air Base highlights the complexities of their relationship and the challenges of negotiating a mutually acceptable arrangement. The US seeks to reassert its influence in the region, while the Taliban prioritizes defending Afghanistan's sovereignty. As the situation stands, it appears that the Taliban is resolute in its determination to maintain control over Bagram Air Base and protect Afghanistan's interests ⁴.

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*Key Takeaways*

- *Taliban's Stance*: The Taliban has rejected Trump's demand to return Bagram Air Base, emphasizing Afghanistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

- *US-Taliban Relations*: Indirect talks between the US and Taliban have taken place, but the Taliban insists that any dialogue must exclude military reoccupation.

- *Bagram Air Base's Significance*: The base is a strategic location with proximity to China, Russia, and Central Asia, making it a vital hub for military and surveillance operations.

- *Taliban's Resolve*: The Taliban is determined to defend Afghanistan's sovereignty, with Defence Minister Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid pledging to fight for 20 more years if necessary ³ ⁴ ².