Trump's dream of Bagram could be like a new invasion of Afghanistan

According to current and former US officials, US President Donald Trump's goal of regaining control of the Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan would require the deployment of tens of thousands of soldiers, modern defense systems, and extensive logistics.

During his visit to London on Thursday, Trump reiterated that he wanted the base back, emphasizing its strategic location near China.

Bagram was the most important base for US forces in Afghanistan during the two decades of war following the attacks of September 11, 2001. The base had its own restaurants, shops, and a prison complex. The US left it along with the rest of the country in 2021.

A US representative stated that there were no active plans for a renewed military takeover of Bagram. In his opinion, this would be a huge and costly operation that would require constant defense against attacks by radical groups, but also against possible missile strikes from Iran. “I don't see how that could realistically work,” he said.

Experts add that even if the Taliban agreed to the Americans' return after negotiations, the base would remain vulnerable and maintaining it would entail more risks than benefits.

(reuters, est)