Afghanistan Celebrates Resumption of Internet Access Following Taliban-Imposed Blackout
Afghans celebrated in the streets of Kabul as internet and telecom services were restored following a 48-hour blackout imposed by the Taliban government. The shutdown had sparked widespread condemnation and disrupted daily life, affecting businesses, flights, and emergency services. Reports indicate that connectivity is gradually returning, with local sources confirming the restoration was ordered by the Taliban’s prime minister. The blackout had raised concerns about further isolating women and girls in a country where their rights have already been severely restricted since the Taliban regained power in 2021.
Restoration of Services Sparks Joy
On Wednesday evening, hundreds of Afghans took to the streets of Kabul to celebrate the return of internet services. Local reports described scenes of jubilation, with people joyfully using their cell phones to reconnect with family and friends. One resident expressed the collective happiness, noting that everyone, including Taliban members, was engaged in conversations on their phones. Suhail Shaheen, a senior Taliban spokesman based in Qatar, confirmed that “all communications” were restored by Wednesday afternoon. However, the Taliban government has not provided an official explanation for the initial shutdown.
Impact of the Blackout
The recent blackout had significant repercussions for daily life in Afghanistan. Businesses faced disruptions, and flights were canceled, leaving many stranded. Access to emergency services was limited, and the situation raised alarms about the potential isolation of women and girls, whose rights have been increasingly curtailed under Taliban rule. The United Nations highlighted that the blackout left Afghanistan nearly cut off from the outside world, warning that it could exacerbate the ongoing humanitarian crisis and threaten economic stability. During the blackout, Kabul’s streets were noticeably quieter, with banks closed and shopping centers nearly empty, illustrating the profound impact of the communication shutdown.
Concerns Over Women’s Rights
Since the Taliban’s return to power, numerous restrictions have been imposed, particularly affecting women. Reports indicate that the internet served as a vital link to the outside world for Afghan women, especially after the Taliban banned girls over the age of 12 from attending school. Job opportunities for women have also dwindled, with instances of books authored by women being removed from universities. The Taliban’s justification for the internet shutdown, as stated by a spokesperson in Balkh province, was to block access “for the prevention of vices.” This has raised fears about the further erosion of women’s rights in the country.
Emotional Reunions and Hope
With the restoration of internet services, many Afghans expressed relief and joy. Delivery driver Sohrab Ahmadi likened the moment to a festive occasion, saying it felt like a celebration. For those with family members still in Afghanistan, the ability to communicate again was deeply emotional. Mah, a 24-year-old Afghan who fled to the UK in 2021, shared her tears of joy upon reconnecting with her mother. She expressed the uncertainty that looms over Afghanistan, stating that the situation remains unpredictable. The restoration of connectivity has rekindled hope among many, even as challenges persist in the country.
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