Story perspectives

Taliban Expands Internet Ban, Sparks Outrage in Afghanistan

9/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Taliban's internet ban in Afghanistan now extends beyond Balkh province to several northern and eastern provinces, including Baghlan, Badakhshan, Kunduz, and Nangarhar.
This is the first complete ban on fiber-optic internet since August 2021, affecting government offices and businesses.
Officials promise to develop alternative internet access, though specifics are lacking.
Residents report frustration over the negative effects on businesses dependent on stable internet.
The Afghanistan Media Support Organization condemned the ban, highlighting threats to freedom of expression and information access.

History

Historical Context

The Taliban's regime in Afghanistan, which began in the mid-1990s, imposed severe restrictions on media, culminating in a complete ban on television and music by 2001, with 80% of media outlets closing. Following their return to power in 2021, the Taliban extended internet bans, continuing a legacy of censorship that threatens freedom of expression and civil liberties in Afghanistan.

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Story summary

The Taliban's internet ban in Afghanistan now extends beyond Balkh province to several northern and eastern provinces, including Baghlan, Badakhshan, Kunduz, and Nangarhar.
This is the first complete ban on fiber-optic internet since August 2021, affecting government offices and businesses.
Officials promise to develop alternative internet access, though specifics are lacking.
Residents report frustration over the negative effects on businesses dependent on stable internet.
The Afghanistan Media Support Organization condemned the ban, highlighting threats to freedom of expression and information access.

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