Taliban photo appears to mock Iwo Jima flag raising in latest propaganda push

By J.D. Simkins Aug 21, 05:46 PM

Recently released Taliban propaganda appears to mock the famous Iwo Jima flag raising photo. (L – Taliban photo / R – Joe Rosenthal/AP) 

The Taliban’s media wing has wasted little time releasing droves of new propaganda in the wake of its ascension to power.

In one particular image released this week, members of the Taliban’s Badri 313 Battalion appear to mock Joe Rosenthal’s iconic 1945 image of the flag raising atop Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima.

In the Taliban image, fighters belonging to the Badri 313, which some are calling the Taliban’s elite commando unit, are shown wearing full camouflage uniforms, combat boots, tactical gear and night vision goggles.

Similar photographs released in recent days show Taliban fighters carrying weapons and equipment issued by the United States or allied nations, including M4 carbines and what appear to be Trijicon advanced combat optical gunsights, or ACOGs.

The images are a noticeable departure from traditional depictions of Taliban fighters, who seldom appeared with heavy weaponry or in full military garb, spoils left behind by the Afghan army.