Bagram: The Blunder of the Century

In a move that left the world scratching its head, the United States decided to abandon Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan in July 2021. This strategic military base, located just 40 miles north of Kabul, was the epicenter of American operations in the region for nearly two decades. The decision to leave Bagram was made by the Biden administration, and it has since been criticized as one of the most significant blunders in recent military history. The base was not just a military stronghold; it was a symbol of American presence and power in the Middle East. So why on earth would anyone think it was a good idea to leave it behind?

First off, let's talk about the sheer size and capability of Bagram. This wasn't just any military base; it was a sprawling complex with two runways, capable of handling the largest military aircraft. It had housing for thousands of troops, a detention center, and even a hospital. Abandoning such a facility is like leaving your house unlocked with a sign that says, "Free stuff inside!" The decision to leave Bagram was akin to handing over the keys to the kingdom, and it didn't take long for the Taliban to seize control.

Secondly, the timing of the withdrawal was nothing short of disastrous. The decision to leave Bagram came just weeks before the Taliban's rapid advance across Afghanistan. With the base abandoned, the U.S. lost a critical hub for intelligence and air support. This left Afghan forces, who were already struggling, without the necessary backup to hold off the Taliban's onslaught. The result? A swift and humiliating collapse of the Afghan government, leading to chaos and a humanitarian crisis.

Moreover, the decision to leave Bagram was a slap in the face to our allies. For years, NATO forces operated out of Bagram, and the base was a symbol of international cooperation in the fight against terrorism. By abandoning it, the U.S. sent a message to its allies that their sacrifices and efforts were in vain. It was a betrayal of trust that will have long-lasting repercussions on international relations.

Let's not forget the security implications of leaving Bagram. The base housed a prison with thousands of detainees, many of whom were hardened terrorists. By leaving the base, the U.S. effectively opened the gates, allowing these dangerous individuals to roam free. This decision has undoubtedly made the world a more dangerous place, as these terrorists are now free to plot and carry out attacks against the West.

The economic cost of abandoning Bagram is another factor that cannot be ignored. Billions of dollars were invested in building and maintaining the base over the years. By leaving it behind, the U.S. essentially flushed taxpayer money down the drain. This is a classic example of government waste, and it should infuriate every American who pays taxes.

The decision to leave Bagram also raises questions about the competence of the current administration. How could such a critical decision be made without considering the consequences? It's a clear indication of a lack of foresight and strategic planning. The administration's handling of the withdrawal has been nothing short of a debacle, and it has left the U.S. looking weak on the world stage.

Furthermore, the abandonment of Bagram has emboldened America's adversaries. Countries like China and Russia are watching closely, and they see this as a sign of American decline. By leaving Bagram, the U.S. has signaled to the world that it is no longer willing to maintain its position as a global leader. This is a dangerous precedent that could have far-reaching implications for global stability.

Finally, the decision to leave Bagram has had a devastating impact on the Afghan people. With the Taliban back in power, millions of Afghans are now living in fear. Women and girls, in particular, are facing a grim future under Taliban rule. The U.S. had a moral obligation to protect the progress made in Afghanistan over the past two decades, and by abandoning Bagram, it has failed in that duty.

In the end, the decision to leave Bagram was a colossal mistake. It was a decision made without considering the consequences, and it has left the world a more dangerous place. The abandonment of Bagram will go down in history as one of the most significant blunders of the 21st century, and it should serve as a cautionary tale for future leaders.