Afghan authorities recently implemented significant restrictions on communication services across the country. Last month, a two-day nationwide shutdown of internet and cellphone services occurred, impacting various sectors including government operations and access to online educational programs. Following the restoration of these services, the Afghan government proceeded to block specific content on major social media platforms, including Instagram and Facebook.
These actions represent the latest in a series of measures undertaken by the Afghan government since its return to power four years ago, aimed at controlling public access to information and digital content. Previous restrictions have included prohibiting content creators from posting on YouTube in certain provinces and forbidding television channels from broadcasting images of living beings. The nationwide communication blackout specifically raised concerns among Afghans regarding the potential for future, prolonged disruptions to connectivity.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/12/world/asia/social-media-restrictions-and-2-day-internet-shutdown-rattle-afghanistan.html