Taliban Marks 3 Years in Power with Grand Military Parade at Ex-U.S. Base

On August 15, 2024, the Taliban marked the third anniversary of their return to power with a grand military parade at Bagram Air Base, once the largest U.S. military installation in Afghanistan. This event, attended by approximately 10,000 men, showcased the group's control over the country and its military capabilities.

Abdul Kabir, the deputy prime minister, addressed the audience, emphasizing the Taliban's achievements in implementing Islamic law and establishing security. He stated, "The Islamic Emirate eliminated internal differences and expanded the scope of unity and cooperation in the country." Kabir also called for international cooperation and urged Afghan expatriates to return.

The speeches primarily focused on the Taliban's accomplishments and international messaging, notably avoiding discussion of the numerous challenges facing the Afghan population. Afghanistan, with a population of about 38 million, has been grappling with severe economic hardships. The country's GDP per capita remains one of the lowest globally, despite possessing vast mineral resources estimated to be worth trillions of dollars.

The parade featured a display of military hardware abandoned by U.S. and NATO forces, including helicopters, Humvees, and tanks. Mullah Yaqoob, the Acting Defense Minister, and Sirajuddin Haqqani, the Acting Interior Minister, were among the high-ranking Taliban officials present. Notably absent were women attendees and the Taliban's supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada.

While the Taliban celebrated their control, international aid agencies have warned of a looming humanitarian crisis. Afghanistan has been in almost continuous conflict since 1978, leaving millions on the brink of hunger and starvation. The situation is particularly dire for women and girls, especially since the Taliban banned girls from attending secondary school in March 2022.

The country faces numerous challenges beyond economic instability. Afghanistan has one of the highest maternal mortality rates globally and a remarkably young population with a median age of 18.4 years. The ongoing issues with opium production and the volatile Durand Line bordering Pakistan further complicate the nation's path to stability.

As the Taliban continues to seek international recognition, no country has yet recognized them as the legitimate government of Afghanistan. The group's policies, particularly those affecting women's rights, remain a significant point of contention in diplomatic relations.

"No one will be allowed to interfere in internal affairs and Afghan soil will not be used against any country."

This grand celebration at Bagram, once the epicenter of America's war efforts, symbolizes the dramatic shift in Afghanistan's political landscape over the past three years. However, the absence of addressing domestic challenges during the event raises questions about the Taliban's priorities and their ability to govern effectively in the face of mounting humanitarian concerns.