Afghanistan is currently facing a complete internet blackout as the Taliban implements measures to curb what they call "immoral activities." This shutdown began on Monday and has left the country’s 43 million residents cut off from the outside world. Many people with family and friends in Afghanistan are worried about their loved ones, as communication has become nearly impossible.
The internet and phone services have been severely disrupted, with multiple networks going offline in a systematic manner. NetBlocks, a group that monitors internet access globally, confirmed the blackout, stating that it reflects the Taliban’s return to more conservative values reminiscent of their rule from 1996 to 2001. The organization also noted that the blackout is limiting basic freedoms for Afghan citizens.
Reports indicate that the Taliban had been discussing the internet shutdown for about a week before it was put into action. An anonymous Taliban official acknowledged that the country is struggling without internet access, saying, "everything is at standstill at the moment." This move is seen as one of the most drastic actions taken by the regime since they regained power in 2021.
The Taliban has previously hinted at such measures to prevent what they consider immoral behavior. Haji Zaid, the governor of Balkh province, mentioned plans to establish an "alternative system" for essential needs within the country.
This blackout not only disrupts daily communication but also raises concerns about human rights abuses. Recent events have shown that while some American citizens held hostage by the Taliban have been released, at least one Afghan-American, Mahmood Habibi, remains in custody. Since the Taliban took control, they have also imposed strict limits on women’s rights, including bans on girls’ education and forcing women out of the workforce.
Mariam Solaimankhil, a former member of the Afghan government, expressed her heartbreak over the silence from Afghanistan, saying it feels like the world is left in darkness without Afghan voices. She has called on Elon Musk to provide internet access through Starlink, which is exploring expansion into parts of the Middle East but currently has no plans for Afghanistan.
Solaimankhil believes that access to Starlink could help break the Taliban’s censorship and allow Afghan voices to be heard again. She urges action, stating that this is a crucial moment in history.
