Taliban hold ‘humiliating’ parade three years after returning to power in Afghanistan

Taliban’s Parade Marks Anniversary of US Withdrawal

Three years after the chaotic withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan, the Taliban marked the occasion with a grand parade at Bagram Airfield, a former US military base. The event featured Taliban soldiers marching with American-made machine guns and vehicles, including a vast array of military equipment estimated to be worth around $7 billion, left behind during the hasty US exit.

The parade, a stark display of the Taliban’s newfound power, saw pickup trucks filled with armed men driving through the streets of Kabul. Senior Taliban officials attended the celebration, though the group’s Supreme Leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, was notably absent.

 

The Controversial US Withdrawal

The Biden administration’s decision to withdraw US troops from Afghanistan in August 2021 faced intense global criticism. The rapid collapse of the Afghan government and the swift takeover by the Taliban sparked chaos and despair, leading to a hurried and dangerous evacuation. During the evacuation process, a suicide bombing at the Kabul airport claimed the lives of 183 people, including 13 US service members, adding to the tragedy.

The withdrawal also left behind hundreds of American citizens and thousands of Afghan allies, many of whom had supported US efforts during the 20-year conflict. The decision to withdraw under such circumstances continues to be a point of contention in the US and abroad.

Taliban’s Bold Claims of Governance

During the parade and subsequent speeches, Taliban leaders made bold claims regarding their governance and achievements over the past three years. They boasted of their success in strengthening Islamic law across Afghanistan and providing “peace and security” to the war-torn nation. Deputy Prime Minister Maulvi Abdul Kabir emphasized the Taliban’s commitment to unity and non-interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs.

However, these claims have been met with skepticism and criticism. US Army veteran Bill Roggio, among others, dismissed the Taliban’s assertions as mere propaganda, highlighting the ongoing issues and hardships faced by the Afghan population under Taliban rule.

Afghanistan’s Struggles Under Taliban Rule

Despite the celebratory parade, Afghanistan remains in a dire state. Millions of people are teetering on the brink of starvation, with the country’s economy in shambles. Unemployment is rampant, and the Taliban’s oppressive policies, including banning girls and women from attending school beyond the sixth grade, have drawn widespread condemnation.

The Taliban’s primary focus appears to be on maintaining their control over the country and enforcing a strict interpretation of Sharia law, rather than addressing the humanitarian and economic crises plaguing Afghanistan. As the Taliban celebrates their hold on power, the future of Afghanistan remains uncertain, with its people bearing the brunt of the ongoing challenges.

 

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