The Taliban celebrated the three-year anniversary of their takeover of Afghanistan with a grand military parade in Bagram, the former U.S. airbase. During the event, which took place on Wednesday, they showcased homemade bombs, fighter jets, and marching security forces. The parade attracted hundreds of attendees, including diplomats from China and Iran, who gathered for speeches and celebrations.
The Taliban seized control of Kabul on August 15, 2021, following the collapse of the U.S.-backed government and the flight of its leaders into exile. This date is observed a day earlier on the Afghan calendar. Since their takeover, the Taliban government has faced international isolation and remains unrecognized by any state.
A significant challenge for the Taliban regime is the pervasive repression of women, which the United Nations has labeled as “gender apartheid.” Madina, a 20-year-old former university student from Kabul, expressed her frustration: “Three years have passed since the dreams of girls have been buried. It is a bitter feeling that each year of celebration on this day reminds us of the efforts, memories, and goals we had for our future.”
Taliban Prime Minister Mohammad Hassan Akhund, who was expected to attend the parade, praised what he described as a victory over “Western occupiers” and emphasized the government’s responsibility to maintain Islamic rule and protect the nation’s dignity. Security has been a priority for the Taliban, which has implemented laws based on a strict interpretation of Islam in the past three years.
While some Afghans, like rugby player Samiullah Akmal, expressed optimism, believing that “Afghanistan’s future is bright,” the reality for many residents is starkly different. Zalmai, a 26-year-old NGO worker, voiced his dismay over the current situation: “The past three years have been some of the worst in our lives. I do not know what security the Taliban is talking about. People are starving, and the youth have no jobs… both girls and boys are facing an uncertain future.”
The international community has also expressed concern about the humanitarian crisis affecting the country, where 23.7 million people require emergency assistance. Alison Davidian, head of UN Women in Afghanistan, highlighted the dramatic deterioration of women’s rights: “Three years ago, a woman could technically decide to run for the presidency. Now she may not even be allowed to decide when she can buy groceries.”
Amid the worsening economic situation, the Taliban has been criticized for failing to meet the fundamental needs of the population. A report from Al Jazeera indicated that Afghanistan’s economic efforts are hindered by international sanctions and recognition issues, making it difficult for the country to rebuild after decades of conflict.