Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers marked their third year in power with a grand military parade showcasing their military might. The parade featured homemade bombs, fighter aircraft, and goose-stepping security forces.
The event, held at the former US air base in Bagram, saw the Taliban’s armed forces displaying Soviet-era tanks and artillery pieces. Chinese and Iranian diplomats, along with hundreds of spectators, attended the parade.
Bagram air base, once crucial for US-led operations against the Taliban, served as the backdrop for the celebration.
The festivities also featured motorbikes carrying yellow jerry cans, symbolic of the homemade bombs used in past conflicts, as well as US-made armored vehicles.
While Taliban forces showcased their military prowess, the government’s treatment of women, described as “gender apartheid” by the United Nations, continues to draw international criticism.
Prime Minister Mohammad Hassan Akhund commended the Taliban’s victory over “Western occupiers,” emphasizing the government’s commitment to Islamic rule and national protection.
Despite the show of strength, challenges persist, including security threats from the Islamic State group and economic struggles impacting the Afghan population.
As Afghanistan navigates through its third year under Taliban rule, the future remains uncertain, with human rights organizations urging the international community to address ongoing violations.
The anniversary serves as a reminder of the complex realities facing Afghanistan and its people, highlighting the need for sustained support and advocacy for human rights.