Taliban Denies Internet Access Shutdown in Afghanistan

The Taliban administration in Afghanistan has refuted allegations regarding a shutdown of internet access across the country. According to the government, the internet has not been turned off; rather, it is undergoing necessary updates due to the need to replace outdated fiber optic cables. This statement marks the first official response from the Taliban concerning the recent disruption in communications, which has significantly affected banking operations, trade, air travel, and the daily lives of citizens.

Earlier, various provincial governments had reported that the internet was disabled following a decree from Taliban leader Mullah Achundsada, aimed at curbing immoral activities. However, Taliban representatives told journalists that these claims were merely rumors. In a statement, spokesperson Sabihullah Mujahid explained that the nationwide disruptions in communication services were attributed to an aging fiber optic infrastructure that is currently under renovation.

On Monday, the Taliban ordered the shutdown of all fiber optic networks through the state telecommunications authorities. An independent internet monitoring organization, Netblocks, noted that this disruption also affects telephone and mobile connections. For approximately 40 million residents of Afghanistan, this has resulted in a substantial reduction in communication with the outside world, leaving many employees of international organizations unreachable.

As of Wednesday, internet access and substantial portions of telecommunications services remain interrupted. At Kabul Airport, there were reports of disturbances and cancellations: a significant number of incoming flights were reportedly canceled on the morning of the disruption, according to flight data aggregator Flightradar24.

The UN mission in Afghanistan has condemned the shutdowns, urging the Taliban to restore internet and telecommunications services promptly and completely. The interruptions pose serious risks to the banking and financial systems, medical services, and the aviation industry. Women and girls are particularly affected, facing increased isolation due to the loss of connectivity. Furthermore, the internet plays a crucial role as an early warning system and for disseminating information during national emergencies.