Afghanistan remained cut off from the outside world for a second consecutive day on Tuesday, as the Taliban enforced a sweeping shutdown of internet and mobile phone services.Authorities disconnected the country’s fibre optic network late Monday, plunging millions of Afghans into a communications blackout. Residents across Kabul and several provinces reported being unable to access the internet, make phone calls, or send text messages.
The Taliban has not issued an official explanation for the disruption. However, analysts suggest the move could be aimed at tightening control amid rising security concerns and growing dissent.Human rights groups have expressed alarm, warning that the blackout prevents citizens from seeking emergency assistance, hampers humanitarian operations, and silences voices critical of the Taliban government.
“This is a deliberate attempt to isolate Afghans and restrict their right to information,” one regional advocacy group said in a statement.The blackout is the most extensive since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021 and comes at a time when Afghanistan is already grappling with economic hardship, food insecurity, and international isolation.