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22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
A Nation in Limbo

On May 22, 2022, armed Taliban fighters were seen standing in front of a pickup truck in Kabul, showcasing their presence and authority in the city. This sight reflects the ongoing security dynamics in Afghanistan following the Taliban's takeover in August 2021. The group's armed patrols signify their efforts to maintain control and enforce their interpretation of law and order, particularly in urban areas where they face scrutiny from both local populations and the international community. The presence of heavily armed militants raises concerns about safety and the implications for civil liberties under Taliban rule, as they navigate the challenges of governance while asserting their power.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 05.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2024
Photo Location: Kabul, Afghanistan
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Copyright: © Christian Werner