Afghanistan’s Taliban marked the third anniversary of their return to power with a military parade at the former US airbase in Bagram. The celebrations highlighted the armed forces’ strength, including homemade bombs, fighter aircraft, and security forces. Prime Minister Mohammad Hassan Akhund praised the Taliban’s victory over “Western occupiers” and emphasized their responsibility to maintain Islamic rule and protect the nation’s people and property.
While some, like rugby player Samiullah Akmal, expressed optimism about Afghanistan’s future under Taliban rule, many Afghans are facing a worsening humanitarian crisis. The economy remains stagnant, and millions of people are in need of humanitarian assistance. Women have been particularly affected by the Taliban’s strict interpretation of Islam, with restrictions on education, employment, and public life leading to a situation the UN has characterized as “gender apartheid.”
International NGOs have warned of a growing aid funding gap in Afghanistan, while major financial restrictions are in place due to the Taliban government’s lack of recognition by other states. The country’s foreign reserves have also been seized by the US, further straining the economy. Despite attempts to revive the economy, the future remains uncertain for many Afghans, with concerns about security, job opportunities, and basic freedoms.
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