Patriotic music and flags mark five years of Taliban rule in Kabul
Large crowds gathered in Kabul as patriotic music and flags filled the Afghan capital's streets to mark five years since the Taliban's return to power.
Kabul, Afghanistan's capital, has taken on a distinctly festive character as the Taliban marks five years since retaking power in the country. Photographs from the city show large crowds gathering in what has been described as a carnival-like atmosphere spreading through the streets.
Patriotic music played across the city while buildings and vehicles were decorated with Taliban flags. The combination of music, flags and heavy public turnout suggests the anniversary is being treated as a significant milestone in the country's recent history.
Five years since the takeover
The Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan five years ago, and the group's administration has governed the country ever since. The anniversary observance in Kabul has been presented as a public celebration, drawing participation from residents of various ages across the city.
The available material consists primarily of a photo collection documenting the celebratory mood in Kabul's streets, without further detail on specific event locations, crowd numbers or official statements. The images nonetheless indicate that the festivities covered a substantial part of the city and drew wide public attention on the day marking the milestone.
