Overview

• Internet watchdog NetBlocks reported national connectivity plunging to around 14% and then near zero, describing a total, intentional shutdown.
• A government official told AFP the cut would last until further notice and warned banking, customs and other operations would be affected.
• Phone and media transmissions were disrupted, with AFP losing contact in Kabul and TOLOnews citing broadcast and mobile internet outages, and some sources indicating a possible downgrade to 2G service.
• The action follows orders by supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada to prevent "vice," expanding mid-September fiber bans first enforced in Balkh and later reported in Badakhshan, Takhar, Kandahar, Helmand, Nangarhar and Uruzgan.
• Press-freedom and rights groups said the blackout will severely restrict information access and livelihoods, especially for women and girls who rely on remote work and online education.