More than three years after the fall of Kabul in August 2021 and the Taliban’s return to power, Afghanistan remains defined by the harsh realities of "Taliban 2.0" rule. Restrictive policies—particularly targeting women—have intensified, while the regime has consolidated control over the country's aid system amid a deepening economic crisis. With Western attention diverted by multiple global conflicts and diminished influence following a decisive defeat, Afghanistan's trajectory is being shaped by the Taliban’s governance, regional actors such as China, Russia and Pakistan, terrorist groups such as Islamic State–Khorasan Province (ISKP), International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs), and the Afghan diaspora. In this paper, David Loyn provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of the Taliban regime, their internal dynamics, emerging opposition groups, and pathways to restore constitutional governance. He also explores policy options aimed at improving conditions for the Afghan people, offering valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping Afghanistan’s uncertain future.