Taliban's Grand Military Parade at Bagram Air Base

The Taliban marked the third anniversary of their return to power in Afghanistan with a grand military parade at the former U.S. airbase in Bagram, showcasing U.S.-made armored vehicles and Soviet-era tanks. The event featured speeches from Taliban officials who touted their achievements, including the enforcement of Islamic law and the establishment of a military framework. Notably, the parade did not address the severe economic hardships and human rights issues, particularly the restrictions on women, that continue to plague the country. Foreign diplomats, including those from China and Iran, attended the event, which was described as the largest and most assertive display since the Taliban's takeover. Despite the Taliban's claims of restoring peace and security, Afghanistan remains unrecognized by any other state and grapples with widespread poverty and unemployment.