Celebrations in Kabul: A Year Since the U.S. Withdrawal

The Unfolding Scene in Kabul

The vibrant parade of vehicles wove its way through the streets of Kabul from dawn until dusk, creating a relentless flow of traffic that seemed to engulf the city. Enthusiastic crowds of Taliban supporters lined the routes, their voices rising in unison with chants of “God is great!” and “Long live the mujahedeen!” One striking truck dragged behind it an American flag, a bold red X slashed across its stars and stripes, a poignant symbol of the moment.

Nearby, outside the remnants of the old U.S. embassy, young children — perhaps no older than 6 or 7 — donned military fatigues as they stood atop a gray Toyota pickup. They clutched small white Taliban flags proudly. A dozen more children crammed into the back of the truck, with white flags draped over their small shoulders, creating a scene that was both celebratory and sobering. Additional flags were affixed to wooden poles, fluttering eagerly in the warm breeze.

“Our way is jihad!” a man proclaimed through a loudspeaker from the passenger seat of the truck. In response, the children echoed with fervor: “Long live jihad!” This display encapsulated the fervent spirit of the moment.

As August unfolds in Afghanistan, it ushers in weeks of exuberant celebrations, commemorating the anniversary of the U.S. withdrawal. The final American planes lifted off from Kabul’s international airport on August 30, 2021, marking a significant turning point in the nation’s history. This month has transformed into a period of both victors and vanquished, with the sight of white flags symbolizing triumph over conquered territories, reminiscent of how past empires would stake their claim through their own banners.

However, this time of celebration is also charged with heightened emotions, deepening the divide between those who ardently support the Taliban’s conservative governance and those who cherished the liberal ideals promoted by the previous U.S.-backed Afghan administration. The nation remains profoundly split over fundamental questions regarding the principles that should govern its future and the values it ought to uphold.

As the celebrations continue, the only consensus appears to be that three years into the Taliban’s rule — characterized by its stringent interpretation of Shariah law — the regime has firmly established itself and is unlikely to fade into the background.