The Taliban administration announced an internet blackout across several northern Afghan provinces, citing the need to curb “immoral activities,” according to provincial government statements. The Islamist group has previously expressed concerns about online pornography and interactions between men and women. This marks the first internet ban since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021, although they have already imposed restrictions such as barring girls from high school and preventing women from working in numerous sectors.

The ban applies to five northern provinces — Kunduz, Badakhshan, Baghlan, Takhar, and Balkh — which include key population hubs. Officials stated that the restriction only affects fiber optic connections, while mobile data services will remain accessible. Provincial authorities confirmed that all fiber connections had been cut, but said alternatives would be made available for essential use.

As a result, homes, offices, and businesses relying on fiber optics are left without internet. Former U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad criticized the move as unreasonable, noting that if pornography were truly the concern, filtering systems — as used in many Islamic countries — could address the issue. Last year, the Taliban formalized strict morality regulations requiring women to cover their faces, men to grow beards, and banning music in cars. Their restrictions on women’s rights and freedom of expression have continued to draw widespread condemnation from rights organizations and international governments.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.