Four years after returning to power, the Taliban have announced a vibrant aerial flower display over Kabul to mark the anniversary of August 15 — the day they seized control of Afghanistan in 2021.
According to the Associated Press, helicopters from the Ministry of Defense will fly over the capital, dropping multicolored flowers from the air. Sports events are also scheduled for Friday.
“Beautiful aerial displays will cover Kabul with colorful flowers,” said a spokesperson for the Ministry of Information and Culture.
Despite the grand preparations, it remains unclear whether women will be allowed to attend the events. Last year, they were banned from participating, including female journalists.
These celebrations come at a time when Afghanistan faces deep economic and social crises. Around 10 million people live in acute food insecurity, while the country struggles with an influx of refugees and a shortage of international aid.
