Afghanistan’s Internet Blackout: Taliban’s Crackdown Raises Concerns

In a concerning turn of events, Afghanistan is currently experiencing a nationwide blackout of internet and phone services, with the Taliban being held responsible for cutting off fibre-optic connections. This move has sparked fears of a crackdown by the Taliban on digital communication and access to information.

According to The Washington Post, the internet blackout has had a significant impact on Afghan women, who have been using the internet as a vital tool to access education and information. The sudden shutdown of internet services has left many women cut off from essential resources and support networks.

BBC News reported that the Taliban has justified the blackout by citing the need to prevent “immorality” and vice. This decision has raised concerns about the Taliban’s intentions and the impact it will have on the freedom of expression and access to information in Afghanistan.

The South China Morning Post highlighted that this blackout is not an isolated incident, as the Taliban had previously begun shutting down high-speed internet connections in some provinces to curb what they deemed as inappropriate content. The complete shutdown of internet and mobile phone services marks a significant escalation in the Taliban’s efforts to control digital communication in the country.

The blackout has drawn widespread condemnation from international observers and human rights organizations, who have expressed concerns about the implications for freedom of speech and access to information in Afghanistan. The move has also raised questions about the Taliban’s commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring a free and open society in the country.

As the situation in Afghanistan continues to evolve, it is essential for the international community to closely monitor developments and advocate for the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms for all Afghan citizens.

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Reference:
– The Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/09/29/afghanistan-taliban-internet-blackout/
– BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdxqdy5nrlqo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
– South China Morning Post: https://www.scmp.com/news/world/russia-central-asia/article/3327366/afghanistan-faces-digital-blackout-taliban-cuts-internet-access-prevent-vice?utm_source=rss_feed

Political Bias Index: Neutral (Green)

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