The claim that the Taliban has handed over the Bagram Air Base to the United States has been circulating widely on social media platforms such as X, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube. However, these assertions are unfounded. Bagram Air Base, the largest in Afghanistan, has been under Taliban control since the withdrawal of US and NATO forces in July 2021. During this period, the Taliban reportedly took possession of equipment left behind by US troops.
While US President Donald Trump has expressed interest in re-establishing a small American military presence at Bagram to counteract Chinese influence, no official action has been taken towards this goal. Contrary to claims of US troops re-entering the base in April 2025, a US defense official confirmed that these reports are false, stating there is no US military presence in Bagram.
The rumors gained traction following a report from Afghanistan’s Khaama Press, which suggested that the Taliban planned to transfer control of Bagram to the US. This report was allegedly based on a Medium article, now removed, which claimed negotiations between the Taliban and US for intelligence collaboration. However, the United States has not recognized the Taliban government, and previous peace agreements were annulled by Taliban leaders earlier this year.
Chief Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid dismissed the reports as “propaganda,” asserting that Afghanistan is an independent nation with its own security forces and does not require foreign military presence. Additionally, CIA Director of Public Affairs Liz Lyons denied claims of CIA Deputy Director Michael Ellis traveling to Bagram.
The Bottom Line
The rumors surrounding the supposed handover of Bagram Air Base highlight the complexities of international relations and the dynamics between the United States and the Taliban. For ordinary citizens, these developments are a reminder of the ongoing geopolitical maneuvering that can impact global security and regional stability. It underscores the importance of verifying information and understanding the broader context before accepting such claims at face value.
For Afghanistan, the continued assertion of independence and rejection of foreign military presence reflects its evolving political landscape. The situation remains delicate, with the potential to influence local security and international perceptions of the region. As such, staying informed and discerning about such news is crucial for those interested in the implications on international diplomacy and regional peace.