The Taliban marked the third anniversary of their return to power with a celebration at the former U.S. airbase in Bagram, Afghanistan. The event, which took place under clear skies, featured members of the Taliban cabinet highlighting their accomplishments, such as strengthening Islamic law and establishing security measures. The speeches were directed towards an international audience, encouraging Afghans abroad to return and calling for cooperation with the Taliban government.
Despite the festive atmosphere, no mention was made of the challenges faced by the Afghan population. Years of conflict have led to widespread unemployment and food insecurity among millions of Afghans. The parade at Bagram, the largest since the Taliban regained control in 2021, showcased military hardware left behind by U.S. and NATO forces, including helicopters, tanks, and Humvees.
The audience of around 10,000 men included top Taliban officials, but women were not permitted to attend the event. Aid agencies have raised concerns about the dire humanitarian situation in Afghanistan, emphasizing the urgent need for more diplomatic engagement with the Taliban to prevent further suffering, especially among women and girls.
While the Taliban declared Wednesday a national holiday, there is no international recognition of their government as the legitimate authority in Afghanistan. Despite the celebratory tone of the parade, the glaring issues of poverty, unemployment, and hunger continue to cast a shadow over the country’s future.
