The Taliban commemorates the third anniversary of the U.S. military’s withdrawal from Afghanistan, reflecting on their control of the country since then.
In commemoration of the disorderly withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan, the Taliban organized a military display at Bagram airbase. This base had functioned as the primary American operational center during the two-decade-long war.
On August 15, 2021, the US-supported government crumbled and the Taliban took control of Kabul. This event is now recognized by leadership as “Afghan Jihad” Victory Day. Additionally, August 31st commemorates when the final American soldier departed from Afghanistan.
On Wednesday, a military parade took place in Bagram which showcased old Soviet tanks, artillery pieces and aircraft. Additionally, it displayed numerous armored vehicles abandoned by the Americans that were made in the US. There were various other parades conducted across Afghanistan such as Kabul, Kandahar province and beyond to display American weaponry too.
The events were captured on video and broadcasted globally, featuring Afghan security forces marching in uniform with various firearms. Additionally, the footage displayed numerous motorbikes exhibiting handmade explosive devices that had been utilized to carry out roadside attacks against US-led troops during wartime.
Reports indicate that numerous individuals, including high-ranking Taliban representatives and foreign diplomats, were in attendance as thousands gathered for the military display. Subsequently, Prime Minister Mohammad Hassan Akhund delivered speeches paying tribute to what he referred to as a triumphal conquest over an imperious international occupying power.
In August 2021, with little to no resistance, the Taliban successfully regained control of multiple provincial capitals and marched towards Kabul. The Pentagon was forced to quickly evacuate American nationals and diplomats due to the surprising fall of the city.
US Army Major General Chris Donahue was the final American soldier to board a military transport plane before the expiration of the withdrawal deadline on August 31, 2021. This brought an end to a tumultuous and costly two-decade-long military campaign that resulted in tens of thousands of fatalities and incurred billions in expenses. The evacuation process has attracted significant criticism directed towards Washington for leaving behind numerous ally Afghans without sufficient support and resources, as well as leading to tragic deaths among 13 US service members involved in these operations.
