The Taliban marked the third anniversary of their return to power with a celebratory event at the former U.S. air base in Bagram, Afghanistan. The event, held under clear skies and sunshine, showcased the Taliban Cabinet praising achievements such as strengthening Islamic law and establishing a military system focused on providing peace and security.
Despite the grandeur of the event, there was no mention of the hardships faced by the Afghan population or promises to address their struggles. The speeches delivered by Taliban officials were directed towards an international audience, urging diaspora to return and calling for cooperation with the country's rulers, although no country currently recognizes the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan.
Notably, women were barred from attending the event, including female journalists from major news agencies. The absence of discussions on the challenges faced by Afghans in their daily lives raised concerns, especially considering the dire economic situation and widespread hunger and unemployment in the country.
The parade at Bagram was described as the Taliban's most significant and defiant display since regaining control of Afghanistan in August 2021. The event featured military hardware abandoned by U.S. and NATO-led forces, including helicopters, Humvees, and tanks. Uniformed soldiers marched with various weapons, and a motorcycle formation proudly carried the Taliban flag.
While the Taliban declared Wednesday a national holiday, women were notably absent from the anniversary festivities, as has been the case in previous years. Aid agencies have warned of the urgent need for increased humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan, citing underfunding and the devastating impact of economic collapse and climate change on livelihoods.
The event also served as an opportunity for the Taliban to showcase their military strength and historical significance, with displays of men holding yellow canisters symbolizing explosives used in roadside bombings during the war. The absence of diplomatic engagement with the Taliban could have severe consequences for vulnerable groups, particularly women and girls, as highlighted by aid agencies.
