Taliban mark 5 years in power with Kabul victory celebrations

The Taliban marked five years since returning to power in Afghanistan with celebrations across Kabul on Aug. 15, draping the capital in the movement’s black-and-white flags and staging public displays of support for its rule. Streets featured graffiti praising Taliban fighters’ “sacrifice,” while posters hailed the end of democracy and the imposition of Islamic rule. Young Afghans sang independence songs as luxury cars passed through the capital during the anniversary events. The public show underscored how firmly the Taliban remain entrenched in Kabul five years after they retook power, even as their rule continues to face pressure and scrutiny at home and abroad.