Taliban’s Fourth Anniversary in Kabul: A Grim Reminder of Failed U.S. Policies and Women’s Oppression
In Kabul, men celebrate the Taliban’s return while women are systematically barred, exposing the disastrous consequences of Washington’s hasty withdrawal and neglect of Afghan women’s freedom.
On August 15, 2025, thousands of Afghan men gathered in Kabul for a chilling celebration marking the fourth anniversary of the Taliban’s return to power following the U.S. withdrawal. Helicopters scattered flowers over the city as flags waved and fighters paraded openly — symbols of a regime that has brutally suppressed basic freedoms ever since.
But amid this orchestrated jubilation, one stark truth stands out: Afghan women were barred from participating in the public festivities. This exclusion highlights what many Americans feared would happen once U.S. forces left — a rollback of hard-earned rights for half the population under a regime known for its harsh interpretation of Islamic law.
What Does This Mean for America and Our Values?
The chaotic exit from Afghanistan did not just abandon an ally; it handed power back to a radical group hostile to liberty and human dignity. For American families who value freedom and individual rights, this moment should raise urgent questions: How long will Washington tolerate such failures abroad that embolden tyrants? Why are we allowing a regime hostile to women’s education, employment, and autonomy to thrive unchecked?
The images tell a grim story—men celebrating with Taliban flags while women walk hurriedly through crowds with their faces masked, invisible in their own capital city. This is not merely an overseas problem; it signals a global shift with direct implications for national security and American interests. The Taliban’s celebration marks not triumph but warning—a reminder that abandoning principles invites chaos.
The Consequences of Abandoning Principles
- National Sovereignty Undermined: By withdrawing without securing peace or protecting allies, Washington ceded control to terrorists rather than enforcing stability.
- Erosion of Freedom: Afghan women face severe restrictions on education and employment—the very freedoms America once championed now trampled underfoot.
- Global Security Threats: The Taliban’s resurgence empowers extremist networks threatening regional and international peace, directly impacting American safety.
This anniversary is more than a date on the calendar—it is a call to recognize that true victory requires upholding enduring values before exiting conflicts. The heroism of those who fought for freedom must be honored by ensuring that our policies prioritize national strength grounded in liberty and justice.