In a notable display of military might, the Taliban marked the anniversary of their takeover of Kabul with a grand parade at the former US air base in Bagram on August 15. This base, pivotal in US-led operations against the Taliban over the past two decades, was transformed for the occasion as Soviet-era tanks and artillery pieces were showcased. Among the crowd were Chinese and Iranian diplomats, highlighting international attention to the event.Military Display and SymbolismThe parade featured a range of military hardware, including US-made armoured personnel carriers and a flotilla of motorbikes. These motorbikes, historically used to transport homemade bombs during the conflict, rumbled through the base, underscoring the Talibans transition from insurgents to rulers. The black-and-white flag of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, the official title of the Taliban government, fluttered prominently.Overhead, helicopters and fighter jets flew in a show of aerial strength. The base, located about 40 kilometers north of Kabul, previously served as a detention facility for Taliban fighters. The event marked three years since the Talibans takeover, which followed the collapse of the US-backed Afghan government.NEW: The Taliban held a military parade at Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan with the US military equipment they stole after the disastrous Biden-Harris withdrawal.The Taliban was celebrating the third anniversary of taking over the former US air base as they trolled the US with… pic.twitter.com/UUuANxX4UO— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) August 14, 2024Public Sentiment and Government StatementsPrime Minister Mohammad Hassan Akhund, unable to attend in person, issued a statement praising the Talibans victory over Western occupiers and reaffirming the governments commitment to uphold Islamic law and national security. This anniversary, observed a day earlier according to the Afghan calendar, continues to be a point of contention internationally, especially regarding the Talibans restrictions on women, which have been criticized as “gender apartheid” by the United Nations.Former university student Madina reflected on the days significance, expressing the disappointment felt by many Afghans over the curtailed opportunities for women. Despite this, some locals, like rugby player Samiullah Akmal, viewed the celebrations positively, emphasising a sense of national pride and progress.Security and UnitySecurity remains a top priority for the Taliban, particularly in the face of ongoing threats from the militant Islamic State group. Enhanced security measures were implemented in Kabul and Kandahar, the Talibans spiritual heartland, as part of the day of victory celebrations. Military vehicles and helicopters were also seen in the southern city and at Ghazi Stadium in Kabul, where thousands gathered for speeches, athletic displays, and performances of Taliban anthems.Noorullah Noori, Minister of Borders and Tribal Affairs, highlighted the unity observed during the event, urging all Afghans to support the Taliban government as a “blessing from God.”