Taliban shuts down internet across Afghanistan in latest crackdown
5 hours ago
- #Internet Blackout
- #Afghanistan
- #Taliban
- Taliban authorities have shut down internet and telephone services across Afghanistan, implementing a total communications blackout.
- The blackout appears to be part of the Taliban's morality measures, aimed at preventing 'immoral activities,' as stated by a local Taliban spokesperson.
- High-speed internet connections were initially restricted in several regions before being cut nationwide, with mobile internet services also shut down.
- The Taliban's leadership, including Haibatullah Akhundzada, has ordered the ban, though they have not publicly commented on the blackout.
- Afghan television channel TOLO reported disruptions to its broadcasts due to the crackdown, with mobile services potentially being restored at a lower 2G capacity.
- The U.S. and most Western nations do not recognize the Taliban as Afghanistan's legitimate government following their 2021 takeover.
- Since retaking power, the Taliban have rolled back women's rights, detained journalists, and suppressed public dissent.
- Afghanistan faces a severe humanitarian crisis, worsened by aid cuts and the return of 1.9 million refugees, alongside recovery from a recent devastating earthquake.
- The internet blackout is expected to have devastating effects on education, business, and daily life, further isolating Afghan society.