Taliban supporters dance, take selfies in Kabul celebrations marking five years in power

Supporters of the Taliban government marked five years in power with a celebratory rally in Kabul on Saturday. Hundreds gathered near the former U.S. embassy, dancing to patriotic music and taking selfies.

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We are very hopeful and happy for Afghanistan's future.

Attendees, many of whom were men and children, waved the white flag of the Taliban government. Some members of the Taliban were seen dancing with weapons, while a woman attempting to pose with the flag was stopped by authorities.

Despite facing international criticism for imposing strict interpretations of Islamic law, particularly on women and girls, some Afghans expressed happiness and optimism. "We are very hopeful and happy for Afghanistan's future," said Mohammad Daud Rahmani, a 28-year-old businessman from Kandahar. He also called for increased international engagement with the Taliban government.

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This happiness is celebrated in Kandahar and celebrated in other provinces also, but it has another kind of joy in Kabul.

Others shared similar sentiments, highlighting the "peace, comfort and calmness" they feel in Afghanistan under the current administration. Young boys were seen dressed in military fatigues and holding toy guns, while some cars were decorated with dummy fuel canisters, symbolizing homemade bombs used during the Taliban's insurgency.

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We come and convey a message to the world that today, with the arrival of the Islamic Emirate, I feel peace, comfort and calmness in Afghanistan.