Two years after taking over Afghanistan, the Taliban view their rule as open-ended, drawing legitimacy from Islamic law and facing no significant threats, according to their chief spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid. He indicated that the ban on female education would remain in place. The Taliban seized power in August 2021 and are investing in consolidating their position by widening beaches, constructing taller sea walls, and elevating land to counter the rising sea levels that threaten parts of the country. Despite international concerns and calls for change, the Taliban remain confident in their control and their ability to maintain support.