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Taliban Bans Fiber Optic Internet, Sparks Outrage in Balkh

9/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Taliban banned fibre optic internet in Balkh province, Afghanistan, to “prevent immorality,” marking their first such ban since August 2021.
This ban impacts government offices, the private sector, and homes, while mobile internet remains available.
Provincial spokesman Haji Attaullah Zaid confirmed the order came from leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, with no information on potential expansion.
Residents report frustration over negative effects on business and education due to the lack of Wi-Fi.
The ban jeopardizes online government services and humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan.

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Story summary

The Taliban banned fibre optic internet in Balkh province, Afghanistan, to “prevent immorality,” marking their first such ban since August 2021.
This ban impacts government offices, the private sector, and homes, while mobile internet remains available.
Provincial spokesman Haji Attaullah Zaid confirmed the order came from leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, with no information on potential expansion.
Residents report frustration over negative effects on business and education due to the lack of Wi-Fi.
The ban jeopardizes online government services and humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan.