Overview

• Internet watchdog Netblocks measured Afghanistan’s connectivity at under 1% and described the shutdown as an intentional disconnection.
• An official speaking to AFP said 8,000–9,000 telecom nodes would be switched off gradually and that the cut would remain in place until further notice.
• The cuts extend beyond internet access to mobile and fixed telephony, with Netblocks noting that severing fiber infrastructure makes preserving phone service difficult.
• AFP reported loss of contact with its Kabul office, and the official warned that banking and customs operations across the country would be affected.
• The nationwide move follows weeks of regional restrictions justified as preventing vice and undercuts a 2024 push to expand Afghanistan’s fiber-optic network.