Taliban Imposes Nationwide Ban on Fibre Optic Internet in Afghanistan to ‘Prevent Immorality’

The Taliban has imposed a complete ban on fibre optic internet in Afghanistan, initially affecting the northern Balkh province, with reports indicating that the restriction will be enforced nationwide. The order, issued by Afghanistan’s Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, has disconnected government offices, private businesses, public institutions, and homes from cable internet, although mobile internet remains available, albeit slower and costly. Taliban spokesman Haji Attaullah Zaid explained that the ban aims to ‘prevent immorality,’ and that an alternative will be developed within the country to meet essential needs. The rationale for starting the ban in Balkh province is unclear, but disruptions have also been reported in Kandahar, Uruzgan, Helmand, Nimroz, Baghlan, Ghazni, Parwan, and Herat provinces. Residents and business owners have expressed frustration, noting that the shutdown hampers commerce and international communication. Many fear economic losses and are considering relocating to provinces where internet access remains functional. This marks the first large-scale internet restriction by the Taliban since they regained power in 2021, though temporary suspensions of mobile networks have occurred in the past during religious festivals for security reasons. Experts warn that a nationwide implementation could significantly affect both daily life and economic activity across Afghanistan.