Kabul — Afghanistan’s Taliban government says its security forces have thwarted an attempted Daesh attack on an anniversary ceremony in Parwan province, as the group marked four years since the fall of Kabul.

According to a statement issued Friday, special police units intercepted a vehicle in Bagram district carrying heavy explosives allegedly intended to target the event. Authorities said the explosives were hidden in the car’s trunk and that an arrest was made during the operation.

The anniversary marks the Taliban’s return to power on August 15, 2021, when their forces entered Kabul following a rapid nationwide offensive, coinciding with the final withdrawal of US-led troops after two decades of war.

Celebrations and symbolism

The fourth anniversary was marked with official parades in several cities, Taliban flags displayed across Kabul, and fireworks near the shuttered US embassy. In previous years, celebrations included a military parade at Bagram airbase, but no explanation was given for its absence this year.

The Taliban hailed Russia’s recent official recognition of their administration as a diplomatic breakthrough, calling it a step they hoped other nations would follow. The group also highlighted ongoing engagement with countries including China, the UAE, and some Western governments, despite the absence of formal recognition.

Leadership message and new orders

In a statement released for the occasion, Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada urged Afghans to remain grateful for Islamic rule, warning of divine punishment for ingratitude. He credited the Emirate’s governance with eliminating corruption, drugs, and crime.

Akhundzada also ordered the removal of the word “acting” from ministerial titles, signalling the government’s intent to formalise its administration.

Ongoing isolation and criticism

The Taliban remain largely isolated internationally due to their human rights record, especially restrictions on women’s education, employment, and movement. In July, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for two senior Taliban officials over alleged crimes against humanity.

United Nations human rights experts have urged the global community not to normalise relations with the Taliban, accusing them of systemic gender oppression and suppression of dissent.

Despite sustained criticism, the Taliban face little domestic opposition and maintain control over the country’s security landscape. However, challenges persist, from economic fragility and reduced international aid to the influx of millions of returning Afghan refugees from neighbouring states.

The Taliban also face pressure from Pakistan over the presence of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), with Islamabad alleging that the group uses Afghan territory as a base for cross-border attacks. While Kabul denies harbouring the TTP, the issue has strained ties between the two countries, adding a complex security dimension to the Taliban’s fourth year in power.