On Wednesday, the Taliban celebrated the third anniversary of their return to power at Bagram Air Base, a site once central to the U.S. efforts to oust them and combat al-Qaida. Despite the significance of the occasion, the Taliban’s focus was on their own achievements rather than the severe difficulties facing the Afghan population.
Under the bright blue sky and scorching sun, Taliban leaders highlighted their accomplishments, including the implementation of Islamic law and the development of a military system they claim ensures “peace and security.” Their speeches were directed at the international community, encouraging Afghan expatriates to return and urging Western nations to engage and cooperate with their regime. As of now, no country recognizes the Taliban as Afghanistan’s legitimate government.
Deputy Prime Minister Maulvi Abdul Kabir, referring to the Taliban’s government as the “Islamic Emirate,” emphasized the elimination of internal discord and the promotion of unity. He also asserted that no external interference would be tolerated and that Afghan territory would not be used against other nations.
However, none of the four speakers addressed the pressing issues faced by ordinary Afghans. Women, including journalists from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse, and Reuters, were excluded from the event, though the Taliban did not provide an explanation for this decision.
The prolonged conflict and instability in Afghanistan have left millions teetering on the edge of hunger and poverty, with high unemployment rates compounding the crisis.
The Bagram event was the most grandiose and defiant display by the Taliban since they took control of the country in August 2021. The gathering drew around 10,000 men, including top Taliban officials like Acting Defense Minister Mullah Yaqoob and Acting Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani. Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada was absent from the parade.
Foreign diplomats were reported to have attended, though their identities were not disclosed.
Humanitarian agencies have warned that aid efforts in Afghanistan are critically underfunded, exacerbating the suffering of the population, particularly women and girls. They stress the need for increased diplomatic engagement with the Taliban to address these issues.
The parade also served as a showcase of military equipment left behind by U.S. and NATO forces, including helicopters, Humvees, and tanks. Soldiers marched with various weapons, and a motorcycle formation displayed the Taliban flag.
In Kabul, pickup trucks filled with men celebrated the takeover, some posing with rifles for photographs. In southern Helmand province, participants held yellow canisters symbolizing the explosives used in past roadside bombings.
The Taliban declared the day a national holiday, and, as in previous years, women were notably absent from the celebrations.