Noorulhaq Anwar, head of the Taliban’s Administrative Affairs, made controversial statements during the 106th anniversary celebration of Afghanistan’s independence.
During the ceremony held on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, he claimed that Afghanistan and its society have the status of an “Islamic body,” though he provided no further explanation about this metaphor.
During the ceremony, Anwar also compared the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan to the “conquest of Mecca.
” According to the Taliban’s Ministry of Defense, he stated: “Anyone can achieve independence, but maintaining it is what matters.
” Meanwhile, Abdul Haq Wasiq, head of Taliban intelligence, emphasized the importance of following the “Amir” (leader).
The Taliban declared August 19 a public holiday and attributed the country’s independence to the “sacrifices of the mujahideen.”
This ceremony takes place as this year marks the fourth anniversary of the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan, during which the group continues to implement its strict policies across the country.