Afghans Celebrate the Return of Internet After Taliban Blackout

Fri Oct 10 2025 18:32:16 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Following a significant internet blackout imposed by the Taliban, Afghans in Kabul and across the nation rejoiced as telecom services were restored, signaling a return to normalcy amidst ongoing struggles.

After enduring a 48-hour internet and telecom blackout, initiated by the Taliban government and condemned by many, Afghans are celebrating the restoration of services. The blackout had severe repercussions on businesses and communications, but the resumption of connectivity has sparked joy among the populace, who took to the streets to express their relief and happiness.

Afghans have taken to the streets to rejoice in the restoration of internet and telecom services after the Taliban government shut them down, provoking widespread condemnation.

Local reporters stated that communications were resuming, while internet monitor Netblocks indicated a partial restoration of connectivity. A source close to the government confirmed to BBC Afghan that the internet was back by order of the Taliban prime minister.

The 48-hour blackout disrupted businesses and flights, limited access to emergency services, and raised fears about further isolating women and girls whose rights have been severely eroded since the hardline Islamist group swept back to power in 2021.

On Wednesday evening, hundreds of Afghans took to the streets in Kabul to spread the word that the internet was back. One local expressed, Everyone is happy, holding their cell phones and talking to their relatives, reflecting a newfound vibrancy in the city.

Suhail Shaheen, a senior Taliban spokesman in Qatar, stated that all communications were restored by Wednesday afternoon. However, the Taliban government has not provided an official explanation for the blackout.

Last month, a spokesperson for a Taliban governor said internet access was being block to prevent vices. The Taliban has enforced various restrictions since regaining power, and the internet has become a critical lifeline, especially for women whose rights have come under threat.

The UN noted that the previous blackout left Afghanistan almost completely isolated, jeopardizing economic stability and exacerbating humanitarian challenges. With telecom services restored, there has been an upturn in optimism among citizens.

Delivery driver Sohrab Ahmadi described the atmosphere as festive, likening it to Eid, as individuals reveled in their ability to communicate freely once more. Mah, a young Afghan currently studying in the UK, shared her emotional experience of reconnecting with her family, highlighting the lingering uncertainty in Afghanistan despite this brief moment of joy.