Taliban celebrates five years in power with military parades, celebrations

The Taliban government in Afghanistan is marking five years in power with military parades and celebrations. The anniversary comes amid criticism over the group's human rights record, which has led to sanctions and aid cuts from the international community.

The Taliban's return to power five years ago followed the chaotic US withdrawal from Kabul. Since then, Afghanistan has faced significant challenges, including economic hardship, restrictions on women and girls, and international isolation. According to Egypt Independent, humanitarian aid to Afghanistan has been dramatically cut, with approximately 45% of the population in need of assistance.

The Taliban's rule has been marked by a worsening human rights record, with restrictions on women and girls being a major concern. The group has been accused of eroding legal protections and stripping women and girls of their agency, with some experts describing the situation as "gender apartheid." The international community has responded by cutting aid, with the US, once the top provider of assistance, no longer ranking among the top five donor nations.

Brief written by urgent.news from Punch, Punch Nigeria, RFI English, France 24, Egypt Independent — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.