President Joe Biden (D) is twelve weeks away from stepping out of office, but the closing of his sole term in office is marred in controversy. This month marks the third anniversary of the United States pulled out of Afghanistan, and the Taliban has responded in what some call a humiliating way. Given the controversial nature of the exit, the U.S. abandoned weapons and vehicles. The Taliban celebrated its return to power by holding a parade by showcasing the U.S. military equipment that was left behind.
President Biden has received scrutiny over the exit, and Republicans have repeatedly slammed the incumbent president over the event, accusing him of further destabilizing the Middle East.
In a show of celebration this week, the Taliban recognized the third anniversary of its return to power by holding a celebration at Bagram Air Base, which was formerly a U.S. military stronghold. Cabinet members of the Taliban shared speeches from a state at Bagram, commenting on its achievements, which include the strengthening of Islamic law and the establishment of a military framework aimed to instill "peace and security."
During the parade, solders in uniforms marched with light and heavy machine guns, and there was a motorcycle formation, highlighting the Taliban flag. There were pickup trucks filled with men of all ages, and they drove through Kabul's streets to celebrate the occasion.
Mohammed Abdul Kabir, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Taliban, spoke to attendees, admitting that "The Islamic Emirate has eliminated internal differences and expanded the scope of unity and cooperation in the country. No one will be allowed to interfere in our internal affairs, and Afghan soil will not be used against any country."
The parade featured a crowd of an estimated 10,000 men, including Taliban officials like Acting Defense Minister Mullah Yaqoob and Acting Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani.
