Taliban Enforces Regional Internet Ban Citing Morality Concerns

Taliban Enforces Regional Internet Ban Citing Morality Concerns
……………

The Taliban administration has imposed an internet ban across five northern Afghan provinces, citing efforts to curb “immoral activities,” CNN reported. The ban affects fiber optic connections in Kunduz, Badakhshan, Baghlan, Takhar, and Balkh—key population centers in the region.

According to provincial statements, the restriction targets online behaviors such as pornography and interaction between men and women. While home and office internet connections have been disabled, mobile data access remains available.

Authorities stated that alternatives will be arranged for essential services. This marks the first internet-specific ban since the Taliban regained power in 2021. The move follows a broader series of conservative regulations, including limits on women’s education and employment.

Former U.S. Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad criticized the action, noting that content filters, used in many Islamic countries, could address such concerns without full disconnection. The Taliban continues to face widespread international condemnation over its human rights policies.