Keystone-SDA
(Keystone-ATS) The Taliban have pledged to “uphold Islamic law” in Afghanistan as celebrations for the third anniversary of their unopposed rule commenced Wednesday morning at the Bagram military base.
Afghanistan must “adhere to Islamic law,” Prime Minister Hassan Akhund stated in a message delivered at the beginning of the ceremonies at Bagram, where his presence had initially been announced.
Our leaders “must recognize that our responsibilities did not conclude with jihad (holy war); we now bear the duty to uphold Islamic law,” the prime minister conveyed in the message read to numerous senior Taliban officials and high-ranking officers.
Hundreds of guests gathered at the former American air base—an important symbol—located about fifty kilometers from Kabul.
On August 15, 2021, the Taliban entered Kabul without opposition, leading to the evasion of the government and the collapse of the US-led coalition that had removed them from power 20 years prior.
They reclaimed the Bagram base, the operational center against their insurgency. This anniversary is celebrated one day earlier, according to the Afghan calendar.
The military parade was set to showcase much of the equipment salvaged by the victorious insurgents following the swift withdrawal of Western forces.
Special TV programs
Popular rallies are planned in Kabul. Thousands of Afghans have been invited to the capital from multiple central provinces, with extensive security measures in place.
The schedule for these street festivities, which female journalists—both Afghan and foreign—were prohibited from covering, included athletic performances and poetry readings.
Kabul’s streets, roundabouts, and parks have been adorned with thousands of white and black flags of the Islamic Emirate.
Security forces are being deployed in large numbers, with the primary concern being a potential new attack from the jihadist group Islamic State, following an incident last Sunday that resulted in one death in a Shiite district of Kabul.
The elusive emir Hibatullah Akhundzada, who resides in the Taliban stronghold of Kandahar (south) and dictates the nation’s policies by decree, may speak on Wednesday. The Taliban enforce Islamic law in a highly rigorous manner and allow no dissent.
For several days, television channels have been airing numerous programs related to this anniversary, featuring special logos and lengthy interviews with Taliban ministers. A banner on the RTA channel read: “The pride (of the Afghans) comes from the blood shed by thousands of martyrs.”
Humanitarian crisis
After three years of Taliban rule, Afghanistan remains one of the world’s poorest countries, grappling with sluggish growth, high unemployment, and a grave humanitarian crisis.
The Taliban government continues to lack recognition from any nation due to its oppressive actions against women, who are gradually being pushed out of the workforce and education.
However, Kabul has made diplomatic advancements by fostering relationships with neighboring countries, China, and Russia, and has engaged in dialogue with the West by participating in the Doha talks for the first time in June.
“Countries that collaborate with the Taliban should remind them of their abuses against women and girls,” stated Human Rights Watch in a message marking the anniversary. “Donors should provide aid to those most in need and work towards a lasting solution to the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.”
The Taliban’s Third Anniversary: A Reflection on Three Years of Rule in Afghanistan
(Keystone-ATS) The Taliban has reaffirmed its commitment to “maintain the course of Islamic law” in Afghanistan as celebrations marking the third anniversary of their unchallenged rule commenced at the Bagram military base. This day is significant in Afghan history, marked by a military parade and ceremonies attended by senior Taliban officials.
Prime Minister Hassan Akhund’s Message
Speaking at the ceremonies held at the Bagram military base, Prime Minister Hassan Akhund stressed the importance of adhering to Islamic law. He stated, “Our leaders must be mindful that our duties did not end with jihad (holy war); we now have the responsibility to stay the course of Islamic law.” This statement underscores the Taliban’s ideological foundations and commitment to their foundational principles.
The Significance of Bagram Air Base
Located about fifty kilometers from Kabul, Bagram Air Base has become a potent symbol of the Taliban’s resurgence. On August 15, 2021, the Taliban entered Kabul without resistance, leading to the swift flight of the Afghan government and the collapse of the US-led coalition. The recapture of Bagram was particularly significant, as it served as the nerve center for operations against insurgency.
Military Parade and Celebrations
The anniversary celebrations featured a military parade showcasing many of the weapons and equipment salvaged from the hastily departed Western forces. Hundreds of guests participated, commemorating a tumultuous period for Afghanistan. Special television programs aired throughout the day, reflecting on the Taliban’s journey and reinforcing their narratives.
Community Celebrations in Kabul
In addition to the military display, popular rallies were organized in Kabul. Thousands of Afghans were invited to gather in the capital from various provinces, with heavy security measures in place. The program included athletic performances and poetry readings, although female journalists were barred from covering the events.
Security Concerns: The Threat of ISIS
Despite the grand celebrations, there are significant security concerns, particularly regarding potential attacks from the Islamic State (ISIS). A recent event in a Shiite district of Kabul, which resulted in one death, has heightened fears of further destabilization.
The Taliban Leadership Structure
The Taliban operates under a highly centralized leadership, with the elusive leader Hibatullah Akhundzada residing in Kandahar. His decree-based governance ensures a strict adherence to their interpretation of Islamic law, often accompanied by a lack of tolerance for dissenting voices.
Media and Propaganda
Afghan state media have ramped up programming in honor of the anniversary, featuring interviews with Taliban ministers and highlighting their perspectives. This increased media presence serves to bolster the Taliban’s narrative and solidify their control over the Afghan populace.
Humanitarian Crisis in Afghanistan
Despite the celebration of their rule, Afghanistan remains entrenched in a severe humanitarian crisis. The country is one of the poorest globally, struggling with massive unemployment and stagnant economic growth. The Taliban government remains unrecognized by any country due to its oppressive policies against women and the systematic exclusion of women from work and education.
Human Rights Violations and International Response
Human Rights Watch has been vocal about the need for countries engaging with the Taliban to hold them accountable for ongoing abuses against women and girls. As the world watches, the humanitarian situation deepens, calling for urgent international assistance and a reevaluation of diplomatic ties with the Taliban-led government.
International Relationships and Diplomatic Developments
While the Taliban faces international isolation, it has managed to establish diplomatic ties with neighboring countries, as well as relations with China and Russia. Notably, their participation in the Doha talks signals a shift in their approach, allowing for potential dialogue with the West.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
The ongoing humanitarian crisis presents both challenges and opportunities for Afghanistan. Engaging with international donors and humanitarian organizations could lead to crucial support for the Afghan population. Meanwhile, the Taliban’s need for legitimacy might compel them to reconsider their policies toward women and children.
Key Takeaways
- Commitment to Islamic Law: The Taliban’s reaffirmation of Islamic law indicates a continued focus on ideologically driven governance.
- Security Threats: The persistent threat from ISIS remains a significant concern for public safety and stability.
- Humanitarian Crisis: Afghanistan’s socio-economic landscape necessitates immediate international aid and focus on humanitarian efforts.
- International Relations: The potential for improved diplomatic relations could alter the trajectory of Afghanistan’s future.
Table: Key Statistics on Afghanistan Under Taliban Rule
| Statistic | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Unemployment Rate | Estimated 50% |
| Humanitarian Aid Needed | Estimated $4.4 billion |
| Female Workforce Participation | Less than 20% |
| Global Recognition | None |
