## When the Taliban Switches Off the Internet,Afghanistan Disappears
On September 16,2025,a total internet blackout descended upon Afghanistan following the Taliban’s ban on fibre-optic internet access in balkh province. the abrupt disruption triggered a wave of panic amongst Afghans living abroad, severing vital communication links with family and loved ones, including members of the diaspora in Australia.
The shutdown prompted immediate reactions on social media. Jameel Basit, in a Facebook live video, argued that filtering content would be a more appropriate response to concerns about “immorality activities” than a complete blackout, stating, “If the Taliban aim to crack down on immorality activities, they could filter, not then put people in darkness.” He further warned that such restrictions would exacerbate the already fragile state of the nation. The impact was immediately felt; one individual reported receiving no response to a simple “Salaam [Hello]” sent to their family WhatsApp group.
The timing of the internet shutdown coincided with US President Donald Trump’s announcement of his intention to negotiate the retaking of Bagram Air Base, a former key US military hub. This led to speculation online, with one Afghan questioning on social media whether the Taliban was attempting to conceal a “secret deal on Bagram.” Yama Jalaluddin voiced his concerns on Telegram, writing, “If the Taliban truly represent the will of the people, why do they fear clarity? Why must the transfer of Bagram, a matter of national importance, be carried out secretly and without public notice?”
The consequences of this restriction are far-reaching, impacting Afghanistan’s political, social, and economic landscape. Essential services – including aviation, transport, online education, healthcare, and trade – rely heavily on connectivity. Thousands of Afghan citizens depend on platforms like YouTube and Facebook for their income.
The blackout also hinders crucial aid efforts. A social media activist, instrumental in mobilizing rescue efforts and diaspora donations following the recent deadly earthquake in Kunar, now faces notable challenges. Remittances, often sent through MoneyGram, Western Union, or *hawala* – an informal transfer system – are vital for families within Afghanistan, and the shutdown obstructs these financial lifelines.
The economic repercussions are severe. Online businesses are described as “blind without phones and internet,” and the flow of remittances, alongside education, government services, and public infrastructure, has been brought to a standstill. In a country already burdened by conflict and restrictive Taliban rule, the shutdown deepens poverty, disrupts financial transactions, blocks crucial diaspora support, and isolates the nation from global markets. Education is also severely impacted.
By enacting this internet blackout, the Taliban has effectively curtailed access to details for the Afghan people and underscored that maintaining power takes precedence over freedom of expression and the trust of a population already scarred by decades of war, occupation, and corruption.
