The Taliban marked five years since returning to power with military parades and celebrations in Kabul on Saturday (15 Aug), presenting their administration as stable and firmly in control. The main ceremony took place outside the former US embassy, where officials described their return in 2021 as a victory over Western intervention.
Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani praised the Taliban’s achievements while acknowledging that challenges remain. The anniversary comes as the government seeks to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties despite remaining largely unrecognised internationally, with Russia currently the only country to have formally recognised the Taliban government.
Recent attacks claimed by Islamic State, including the reported killings of officials in Badakhshan Province, have highlighted continuing security concerns. Meanwhile, the United Nations and humanitarian organisations warn that Afghanistan faces worsening humanitarian pressures driven by drought, earthquakes, declining international aid and the return of deported Afghans from neighbouring countries.
Human rights groups and UN agencies also continue to raise concerns over restrictions on women and girls, particularly access to education, employment and public life, while the Taliban maintain that their policies are consistent with Islamic law.
As the Taliban deepen engagement with regional neighbours and pursue new economic partnerships, Afghanistan remains at the centre of competing humanitarian, security and geopolitical challenges.
ℹ️ Reuters
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