A Taliban-run media outlet has condemned US President Donald Trump’s recent calls to retake Bagram Air Base, saying the comments violate Afghanistan’s sovereignty and insult its people.
Al-Emarah, one of the Taliban’s official publications, described Trump’s remarks as “an assault on national sovereignty and an insult to the feelings of the Afghan people.”
The outlet cited earlier comments from Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, who warned that “any plan for the return of foreign forces, especially to Bagram, is a blatant violation of Afghanistan’s independence.”
Al-Emarah said Bagram remains a “symbol of occupation” for Afghans, and that renewed discussion of a US return amounted to “disrespect for national sentiments.” The article stressed that Afghanistan’s priorities are “peace, economic growth and the welfare of its people” and urged the international community to seek political, economic and cultural cooperation rather than a military presence.
It concluded: “Afghan soil will not host the military presence of any power.”
Trump has repeatedly said in recent days that Washington should regain Bagram, describing the base as strategically important due to its proximity to China, comments that have also drawn reaction from Beijing.
