Taliban Celebrates Second Anniversary of Return to Power, Despite Ongoing Attacks and Rights Concerns
The second anniversary of the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan, exploring their claims of security and an Islamic system while acknowledging ongoing concerns over human rights violations and restrictions on women's rights.
Afghanistan's Taliban marked the second anniversary of their return to power, celebrating their takeover of Kabul and the establishment of what they claim is security throughout the country under an Islamic system. The Taliban spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, expressed gratitude to the Afghan nation and urged them to thank Allah for the victory.
Security was tight in the capital, and Taliban parades were expected throughout the day. While the Taliban claims overall security and an Islamic system in place, the United Nations reports ongoing attacks on civilians and major restrictions on women's rights.
Journalists and civil society activists have faced detention, raising concerns among human rights groups. On a positive note, corruption has reduced, and there are signs that the Taliban's ban on narcotics cultivation has decreased opium production.
The Taliban hopes that progress will lead to foreign recognition, the lifting of sanctions, and the release of frozen assets. However, the international community continues to grapple with engaging with the Taliban authorities due to concerns about women's rights and human rights violations.