Afghanistan's Taliban rulers are marking five years since regaining power on August 15, 2021. The group is celebrating what it calls a more secure and free Afghanistan.
However, this anniversary comes amid mounting criticism over economic hardship, continued international isolation, and sweeping restrictions on women and girls.
While the Taliban have Afghanistan in a chokehold that spares no one, threats are starting to crack their veneer of stability and control.
Armed factions are currently challenging Taliban rule, straining the group's central claim of providing security.