Nationwide Fiber-Optic Internet Cut Off in Afghanistan
Reliable sources have confirmed that fiber-optic internet services were shut down across Afghanistan at 5 p.m. on Monday, September 29. According to the reports, the order for the shutdown was issued by Taliban authorities from Kandahar and relayed to responsible institutions in Kabul.
The blackout comes at a time when Afghans heavily depend on internet services for education, work, and access to information. The move has raised serious questions about the Taliban’s intentions to restrict freedom of expression and public access to information.
The shutdown has caused widespread disruption to media operations, the banking system, government and non-government institutions, as well as the daily lives of ordinary citizens.
Observers warn that continued restrictions without clear justification or transparency will deepen concerns over growing censorship and tight information control in the country. The Taliban have previously imposed regional internet restrictions and blackouts, actions that consistently sparked backlash from users and press freedom organizations.
Afghanistan, a developing nation in dire need of reliable communication infrastructure, faces further setbacks to economic growth and fundamental freedoms under such measures.
