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

Although they have brought a form of stability to Afghanistan, the Taliban face growing challenges inside and outside their borders.

Five years after seizing power, the Taliban are projecting control in Afghanistan while rights groups warn of deepening humanitarian crises and sweeping restrictions on women.

The Taliban government celebrated five years of ruling Afghanistan on Saturday, with flags galore and convoys of military vehicles, while critics decried tightening restrictions in all areas of daily life. Afghans riding rickshaws and motorbikes decorated with flags drove around Kabul on a day that government spokesman

The Taliban have Afghanistan in a chokehold that spares no one, but threats are starting to crack their veneer of stability and control.

The Taliban government has formed ties with several countries, including in Europe, but is still only recognised by Russia.

The Taliban have Afghanistan in a chokehold that spares no one. But threats are starting to crack their veneer of stability and control.