In a significant and alarming development, the Taliban leader has ordered a sweeping ban on fiber optic internet services in an Afghan province. This move, announced by Haji Attaullah Zaid, a provincial government spokesperson on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, is ostensibly aimed at preventing ‘immorality.’
This marks the first time such a broad internet restriction has been imposed since the Taliban seized control in August 2021. The comprehensive prohibition leaves numerous entities, including government offices, private sector businesses, public institutions, and countless homes across the northern Balkh province, entirely without Wi-Fi internet access. Notably, mobile internet services are reported to remain operational.
Zaid confirmed that the ‘complete ban’ was a direct order from leader Hibatullah Akhundzada. The spokesperson elaborated that the measure was implemented to curb ‘immorality’ and stated that a domestic alternative would eventually be developed to meet essential needs. However, Zaid offered no further details, such as the specific reasons why Balkh province was singled out for this ban or if similar internet shutdowns are planned for other Afghan regions.
While Afghan authorities have occasionally suspended mobile phone networks for security reasons, particularly during religious festivals to prevent explosive device detonations, this new ban directly targets civilian internet access based on moral precepts, prompting considerable concern among residents and international observers alike.