Afghanistan Internet Ban: Taliban Bans Wi-Fi Networks Across Balkh To 'Prevent Immorality'

Taliban Wi-Fi ban: In a move that has sparked widespread concern, the Taliban has banned fibre optic internet and Wi-Fi services in Afghanistan’s northern Balkh province, claiming the measure is aimed at “preventing immorality.” This is the first time such a ban has been imposed since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021.

The decision, confirmed on Tuesday, has left government offices, the private sector, educational institutions, and households in Balkh without broadband internet access. Mobile data services remain available but are slow and costly for most residents.

Taliban’s Justification For Ban

Haji Attaullah Zaid, a provincial government spokesman, said the ban was ordered directly by the Taliban’s supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada. “There is no longer cable internet access in Balkh by order of a complete ban from the leader,” Zaid told The Associated Press. “This measure was taken to prevent immorality, and an alternative will be built within the country for necessities.” No further details were provided about why Balkh was chosen for the restriction or whether similar measures would be enforced in other provinces.

Residents Fear Impact on Daily Life and Business

The sudden suspension has left many residents frustrated. One man from Balkh, who requested anonymity fearing reprisals, told The Associated Press that he noticed disruptions several days ago and was initially told by his service provider it was a technical issue. “Blocking the internet is beyond my comprehension in such an advanced era,” he said. His household of six, including a student, depended heavily on Wi-Fi for education and work.

He explained that mobile data was not a practical substitute due to its high cost and slow speed. “If this ban continues, it will not only be detrimental to my business but also to others because all our business is done on the internet,” he said. “We do business with people in the outside world and maintain relationships through it. I might have to move from Mazar-e-Sharif to another province because I cannot afford the loss.”

Authorities Known To Restrict Networks

Afghan authorities under the Taliban have previously suspended mobile phone services during religious festivals or sensitive events, often citing security concerns. Such shutdowns are usually temporary and aimed at preventing the detonation of explosive devices. But this is the first instance of a blanket ban on fibre optic internet for moral reasons. Analysts warn that the move could have long-term consequences for Afghanistan’s fragile economy, cutting off businesses and students from vital international connections.

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While the Taliban has indicated that a domestic alternative to Wi-Fi will be developed, no timeline has been provided. Critics argue that the lack of reliable broadband could isolate the region further from the outside world at a time when Afghanistan is already facing severe economic and humanitarian challenges.

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For now, Balkh residents remain dependent on expensive and unstable mobile data connections, uncertain whether the ban will remain confined to their province or spread nationwide.