Entrenched, embattled and defiant, the Taliban celebrate 5 years in power

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Afghans celebrating the fifth anniversary of the Taliban’s return to power in Kabul, Afghanistan, early on Aug 15.

PHOTO: TOMAS MUNITA/NYTIMES

Elian Peltier

Published Aug 15, 2026, 03:15 PM

Updated Aug 15, 2026, 03:15 PM

KABUL - The black and white flags of the Taliban were flying high along the streets of Kabul, Afghanistan’s capital, as the group celebrated five years in power on Aug 15.

Shiny Mercedes drifted in front of graffiti praising the Taliban fighters’ “sacrifice”, the word painted in crimson, with depictions of drops of blood. Young Afghans chanted independence songs below posters hailing how “the carpet of democracy” had been removed for Islamic rule.

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