Taliban Celebrates the Anniversary of Kabul's Capture with Helicopter Flowers

• The Taliban is celebrating the anniversary of Kabul's capture with flowers from helicopters.
• The country is experiencing an economic crisis and problems with food supply.
• Women continue to face restrictions in education and employment.

ISLAMABAD — The Taliban is marking the fourth anniversary of its return to power in Afghanistan by scattering flowers from helicopters over Kabul. According to the words of the representative of the Ministry of Information and Culture, Habib Hafran, the celebrations will take place on September 15, 2025.

The Taliban took control of the country on September 15, 2021, shortly after the U.S. and NATO withdrew their troops following two decades of military actions.

Helicopters from the Ministry will conduct "beautiful aerial shows," scattering colorful flowers over the city. There are also planned sports performances by Afghan athletes from morning until evening.

The celebrations will take place against a backdrop of serious problems in the country, including a massive influx of refugees from neighboring countries, rising economic difficulties, and a reduction in foreign funding, particularly from the U.S. Nearly 10 million people in Afghanistan are facing food insecurity, while every third child has stunted growth.

Black and white Taliban flags were raised throughout Kabul. Asan Ulah Khan from the northern province of Sar-e-Pul called on the Afghan diaspora to return in order to see how peaceful the country is.

However, Kabul resident Zafar Momand noted that Afghans need more than just peace. "Order with peace requires us to have opportunities for employment and education. If these problems are resolved, then Afghanistan will become the best country to live in," he said.

Women in Afghanistan report restrictions on access to education after the sixth grade, as well as to many job opportunities and public spaces. It is currently unknown whether women will be present at the celebratory events on Friday.

Last year's celebrations of the anniversary of the capture of power took place in Bagram, where American troops were previously stationed.

Tags: Middle East/Politics/Economy