Overview

• The order from supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada imposes a total shutdown of cable and fiber connections in Balkh, the first such ban since the Taliban took power in 2021.
• Government offices, private businesses, public institutions and households lost Wi‑Fi access, while mobile data service remains available.
• Residents told reporters the restriction is hurting commerce and daily life, noting mobile internet is slower and more expensive for work and study.
• Provincial spokesman Haji Attaullah Zaid offered no details on duration, technical plans or whether the policy will extend beyond Balkh.
• AFP reported connection problems in several other provinces, though authorities have not confirmed a broader ban or nationwide policy.