The Taliban shut down all telecommunications across Afghanistan. Earlier, they had already cut high-speed fibre internet to block what they called “immorality.”

Internet and Mobile Services Blocked

As a result, Netblocks confirmed that Afghanistan now faces a “total internet blackout.” The move also disrupted mobile internet and satellite TV. Moreover, international media outlets said they lost contact with their Kabul offices immediately.

Taliban Tightens Control

Since retaking power in 2021, the Taliban have enforced strict Sharia-based laws. Therefore, a Taliban spokesperson announced that the telecom shutdown would last indefinitely. Meanwhile, Tolo News, a private channel, warned of possible broadcast cuts and urged its audience to follow updates on social media.

Flights and Connectivity Hit

Furthermore, the blackout also disrupted air travel. Reports from Kabul airport showed delays and cancellations. In fact, Flightradar24 confirmed at least eight flight cancellations on Tuesday.

On Mastodon.social, Netblocks stated, “Afghanistan is now in the midst of a total internet blackout as Taliban authorities move to implement morality measures, with multiple networks disconnected through the morning in a stepwise manner; telephone services are currently also impacted.”

For weeks, Afghans had already complained about weak or no internet. However, although the Taliban promised an alternative system, they gave no details.

Afghan Voices Raise Alarm

In response, former journalist Hamid Haidari wrote that the shutdown left “loneliness enveloped the entire country,” adding Afghanistan had “officially taken first place in the competition with North Korea for [internet] disconnection” on X.

Similarly, former lawmaker Mariam Solaimankhil posted on X: “The silence online without Afghan voices from inside Afghanistan is deafening.”

Part of Wider Bans

In addition, the telecom ban adds to a long list of restrictions. Earlier this month, the Taliban removed books written by women from university courses. They also banned lessons on human rights and sexual harassment.

Women remain the most affected. For example, girls cannot study beyond age 12. Even midwifery courses were quietly stopped in late 2024. Ultimately, the Taliban regained control in 2021 after US and international forces left Afghanistan.