Taliban Officials Mark Fifth Anniversary of U.S. Withdrawal, Assert Afghan Victory

On the fifth anniversary of the withdrawal of the last U.S. soldier, two Taliban officials spoke about the ongoing shock from America’s defeat in Afghanistan and the victory of the Afghan people. They emphasized that the 20-year presence of foreign troops never enjoyed the support of the populace.

Taliban: The U.S. is Still Reeling from Its Defeat in Afghanistan

In a message posted on X to mark the fifth anniversary of the last American military exit from Afghanistan, Enamullah Samangani, head of the Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture, stated that the United States has yet to recover from the consequences of its defeat in the country. The last American soldier left Afghanistan on August 31, 2021, marking the end of a 20-year military presence.

Without naming specific individuals or groups, he noted that some are still attempting to return to Afghanistan and play a role in its political framework. Samangani remarked, “While the U.S. is still grappling with the fallout from its failure, some individuals are caught in fantasies about regaining power and participating in the game of the republic. These individuals are oblivious to the fact that both the U.S. and its republic have been ridiculed.”

Mujaheed: Afghans Defeated the U.S. and NATO Through Sacrifice and Resistance

Meanwhile, Zabihullah Mujaheed, a senior spokesperson for the Taliban government, referred to the anniversary of the last American soldier’s departure, asserting that Afghans have succeeded in overcoming U.S. and NATO forces through their efforts and sacrifices. He characterized this day as one of pride for the Afghan people, adding that the foreign troops’ presence over the past two decades had never received popular support.

The statements from Taliban officials clearly highlight their achievements following the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan, reinforcing the narrative of Afghan resilience that led to this victory. This comes at a time when some individuals still seek to revert to the past and reshape the country’s political landscape.