Bagram Airbase: Geopolitical Flashpoint in Afghanistan’s Heartland
Bagram Airbase: Geopolitical Flashpoint in Afghanistan’s Heartland
Why in the News ?
Former US President Donald Trump claimed China now occupies Bagram Airfield, a key strategic base in Afghanistan vacated by the US in 2021. The Taliban denied Chinese presence, asserting full control over Bagram without any foreign troops or agreements.
Strategic History of Bagram Airbase:
- Location: Bagram is situated 60 km north of Kabul in Parwan province, a vital region linking northern and southern Afghanistan.
- Built by the Soviets in the 1950s during the Cold War, it served as a Soviet stronghold during the 1979–89 war, deploying airborne troops and jets.
- US President Eisenhower landed at Bagram in 1959, reflecting early US interest.
- Post-Soviet withdrawal, it became a conflict zone between the Taliban and the Northern Alliance during the 1990s.
American Expansion and Exit Strategy
- After 9/11, the US took control of Bagram, making it the epicentre of American operations during the War on Terror.
- It was expanded to 77 sq km, with a 5-km runway, medical centres, and logistics.
- Also housed a controversial detention centre, often compared to Guantanamo Bay.
- The US vacated Bagram on July 2, 2021; it fell to the Taliban on August 15, 2021.
- US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized that retaining Bagram would have required risking 5,000 troops.
China’s Strategic Interests and Taliban Relations
- Trump claimed China has taken over Bagram due to its proximity to nuclear sites, but there is no evidence.
- Taliban denied any Chinese troop presence or agreements.
- China has recognized Taliban diplomats, signalling growing engagement.
- With Xinjiang nearby, China is keen to prevent cross-border radicalism and is cautiously investing in Afghanistan.
Key Details about Bagram Airbase :●Bagram Airbase was the largest U.S. military base in Afghanistan. |