With flags of the Islamic Emirate, official acts, and gatherings in different parts of the country, the Taliban commemorated this Saturday five years since their return to power in Afghanistan, a date that the regime presented as the anniversary of the “liberation” of the country after two decades of U.S. military presence.
In Kabul, hundreds of supporters — mainly men and children — gathered near the former United States embassy, while the main streets were decorated with flags and posters referring to August 15.
The day also included a ceremony in the traditional assembly hall Loya Jirga, where Taliban leaders, foreign representatives, and thousands of attendees participated. During the speeches, the authorities claimed the anniversary as the departure of U.S. forces from the country.
“This Victory Day (…) will be engraved in golden letters in the History of Afghanistan,” said the Taliban government spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, via X.
Amid the commemorations, the Taliban Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, stated that “the chapter of war has ended” and called on the United States “to reopen its embassy and invest” in Afghanistan, according to an interview published Friday by The New York Times.
The statement comes as the regime continues to seek to expand its international relations. So far, Russia is the only country that officially recognizes the Taliban government, although Afghan authorities have established ties with other states to address matters such as migration.
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During Saturday’s event, the deputy government spokesperson, Hamdullah Fitrat, called for Afghanistan to remain away from new wars.
“We ask the Almighty to always protect our homeland from occupation, attacks, wars, and insecurity, and to grant our people the possibility to live in peace, tranquility, and prosperity under the protection of a government based on sharia,” he said.
Taliban authorities have used the anniversary to highlight security and stability as part of their assessment of the last five years. They have also claimed investments in infrastructure and the pursuit of greater economic self-sufficiency.
However, the country continues to face a complex economic and humanitarian situation. According to collected data, around 14 million Afghans suffer from acute hunger, while the return of more than six million people from Iran and Pakistan since 2023 has further pressured living conditions.
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