KABUL, Afghanistan: On August 14, 2024, the Taliban marked three years since their return to power in Afghanistan with a major military parade at the former U.S. military base in Bagram, alongside celebrations in key cities such as Kabul and Kandahar.
The capital, Kabul, and Kandahar saw heightened security ahead of the "Day of Victory," as the Islamic State group's threat remains a concern. The Taliban's takeover began on August 15, 2021, following the collapse of the U.S.-backed government and the flight of its leaders. The anniversary is observed a day earlier on the Afghan calendar.
Prime Minister Mohammad Hassan Akhund hailed the occasion as a historic and proud moment for the Afghan people. He declared, "The Day of Victory is a significant event for the Islamic Ummah and the Afghan nation," acknowledging the victory over international forces.
Over the past three years, the Taliban has solidified its control over Afghanistan, enforcing laws based on its strict interpretation of Islam, though it remains unrecognized by any other nation. The government’s policies on women, criticized by the United Nations as "gender apartheid," continue to be a major point of contention.
At the Bagram airbase, once a focal point of U.S. military operations, Taliban leaders highlighted achievements such as strengthening Islamic law and enhancing military capabilities. The speeches aimed to appeal to the international community, encouraging the diaspora to return and seeking greater engagement from Western countries.
Deputy Prime Minister Maulvi Abdul Kabir spoke of internal unity and cooperation, stressing that Afghanistan’s sovereignty would not be compromised. However, the speeches did not address the ongoing challenges faced by ordinary Afghans, including severe economic difficulties and high unemployment rates.
The parade featured military hardware left by U.S. and NATO forces, including helicopters, Humvees, and tanks. Uniformed soldiers displayed various weapons, while a motorcycle formation carried the Taliban flag. In Kabul, men celebrated by driving through the streets with rifles, and in Helmand province, a parade featured yellow canisters symbolizing war explosives.
The Taliban declared August 14 a national holiday, but, as in previous years, women were excluded from the celebrations. Aid agencies continue to raise alarms about the dire humanitarian situation, with underfunded relief efforts and the need for increased diplomatic engagement to address the suffering of Afghans, particularly women and girls.
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