Taliban mark five years in power amid humanitarian warnings

The Taliban marked five years of rule in Afghanistan on August 15, 2026, with military displays and celebrations in Kabul. Supporters gathered near the former American embassy, parading vehicles bearing the black-and-white flags of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan to celebrate what government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid called a “day of Victory.”

Despite the regime's claims of improved domestic security and independence, international organizations have issued stark warnings regarding the country's condition. The United Nations reports that nearly 14 million Afghans are facing acute hunger, a crisis exacerbated by climate change and regional conflicts.

Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have highlighted severe repression under the current administration. Since taking power in 2021, the Taliban have issued approximately 470 decrees that restrict the rights of women and girls, including bans on secondary and higher education, limitations on public movement, and exclusion from various professions.