The decision to give up Bagram Air Base prior to the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan stands as a perplexing strategic blunder. In a conflict marked by tough terrain and tactical challenges, Bagram was essential. Its prior capture served a clear purpose: to establish a secure and well-defended site for operations. However, the choice was made to abandon this powerful position. This overlooked opportunity presents a hard lesson echoed throughout military history—the importance of secure terrain.
Instead of utilizing the capabilities of Bagram for a non-combatant evacuation order (NEO), responsibility shifted away from the military. Typically adept at NEOs, the military’s expertise was sidelined, and control passed to the State Department. Viewing Kabul’s airport akin to an embassy reveals a misunderstanding of tactical necessities. This decision created a fragile position, lacking the strategic depth offered by Bagram’s valley and dual runways.
History offers stark warnings to those who fail to solidify positions. A look back at the Soviet Union’s retreat from Afghanistan demonstrates this vividly. Quick to leave without securing allied forces, Afghanistan bases quickly crumbled. The same unfolded with the U.S. withdrawal. The Afghans, erstwhile bolstered by U.S. intelligence and support, were left vulnerable. They faced an unforgiving reality as the Taliban resumed control, undoing years of cooperative effort.
These decisions carry a solemn weight, felt most deeply by those who bravely served and sacrificed. With lives lost among dedicated service members, there’s palpable frustration and a sense of futility. Many of those who served reflect on what could have been—a mission concluded under the belief that strategic objectives were unmet. The proposed “over the horizon” strategy, a plan to engage as needed, lingered as a missed opportunity.
In retrospect, the timeline pursued was unrealistic given the rapidly evolving scenario on the ground. By prioritizing diplomacy over defensive strategy, the withdrawal exposed critical vulnerabilities. Learning from these experiences is paramount. It underscores the necessity of using military expertise in tactical operations and highlights the enduring importance of terrain and strategic foresight in ensuring successful missions. This serves as a crucial reflection for future military and foreign policy endeavors.
