The Taliban government has shut down internet services across Afghanistan. According to the cyber monitoring group NetBlocks, the country faces a near-total telecom blackout. Internet connectivity has dropped to just 14 percent of normal levels. This deliberate shutdown has disrupted communication for millions of Afghans. Mobile phone services have also been affected, making daily life difficult.
Earlier this month, the Taliban began restricting internet access in several provinces. Fiber optic internet was cut off in key regions, including the northern province of Balkh. The Supreme Leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, ordered the shutdown in an attempt to control information flow. Provincial officials claimed this move aimed to prevent “immoral activities.” However, critics see it as a harsh crackdown on freedom.
⚠️ Update: Live metrics show internet connectivity in #Afghanistan has now collapsed to 14% of ordinary levels, with a near-total nationwide telecoms disruption in effect; the incident is likely to severely limit the public’s ability to contact the outside world pic.twitter.com/S2fn2XGIXn
— NetBlocks (@netblocks) September 29, 2025
Local TV channels and social media platforms reported the shutdown starting on Monday afternoon. The blackout covers the entire country and includes major cities like Kabul. People are now struggling to connect with family, access news, and conduct business. The Taliban promised alternative arrangements to meet basic communication needs. However, details on these alternatives remain unclear.
Experts warn that this blackout will isolate Afghanistan further from the global community. The move risks harming education, healthcare, and economic activities reliant on the internet. Human rights groups have condemned the Taliban’s actions as a violation of basic freedoms. Meanwhile, Afghan citizens express frustration and fear about the loss of connectivity. They worry about worsening isolation and the impact on daily life.
In summary, the Taliban’s nationwide internet shutdown disrupts Afghan society deeply. It restricts communication and limits access to vital services. This step follows earlier regional internet restrictions and signals a tightening grip on control. The future of Afghanistan’s digital connectivity remains uncertain under Taliban rule. The international community watches closely as the situation develops.