Afghanistan’s Acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, has firmly stated that the Islamic Emirate will not permit any foreign military presence on Afghan soil, directly addressing recent claims by U.S. President Donald Trump about foreign forces at Bagram Airbase. Speaking at a meeting with newly graduated diplomats at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Institute of Diplomacy in Kabul, Muttaqi emphasized that no foreign troops are present anywhere in Afghanistan, including Bagram, a former U.S. military hub.
Muttaqi underscored that Afghanistan seeks engagement with the international community through political, economic, and diplomatic channels, rejecting any military interference. Since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, the Islamic Emirate has prioritized asserting national control, often clashing with international expectations. The statement responds to speculation about U.S. intentions in the region, reinforcing Afghanistan’s stance on sovereignty.
The Islamic Emirate’s position aligns with efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties, including recent talks with China and Pakistan to enhance trade and infrastructure. However, Afghanistan faces challenges, with over 393,000 migrants deported from Iran and Pakistan in the first five months of 2025, straining internal stability. The rejection of foreign military presence reflects a broader push for self-determination, though analysts warn that diplomatic isolation could worsen economic difficulties. As global powers monitor the situation, Afghanistan’s leadership navigates a delicate balance between sovereignty and international cooperation.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 21st, 2025
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