Afghanistan Plunged Into Blackout After Nationwide Telecom, Internet Shutdown

Sources told Afghanistan International that the Taliban-run Afghanistan Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (ATRA) met with fibre-optic providers on 29 September and conveyed Akhundzada’s verbal directive. Providers were instructed to disconnect services in all provinces, including Kabul, until further notice.

“When company officials asked ATRA representatives what authority this action was based on, they were told it was a verbal order from Hibatullah and must be implemented,” one participant said.

Industry officials warned that a nationwide shutdown would not only disrupt household and business users but also paralyse critical services. Banks, customs offices and government institutions depend on point-to-point fibre connections, while telecom operators would face severe disruptions.

Taliban officials have not commented publicly on the move.

Earlier, a delegation from the Ministry of Economy, the Ministry of Finance and the Taliban Central Bank travelled to Kandahar to appeal against the decision, arguing that all operations of their institutions relied on internet connectivity.

According to sources, Akhundzada dismissed the concerns, saying the measure would be implemented gradually. He reportedly told the delegation: “During Mullah Omar’s rule, there was no internet, yet affairs progressed smoothly. Therefore, alternative methods must now be found.”

In a statement, the consulate team said their decision was driven by Berlin’s move to send two Taliban representatives to the mission.

Hamid Nangialay Kabiri, the acting head of the consulate, said in a video message that all staff had stepped down, citing opposition to what he called the transfer of Afghan citizens’ documents to an “illegitimate group.”

Kabiri said all documents and assets of the consulate would be handed to the German Foreign Ministry. He added that one Taliban envoy was expected to be assigned to the post.

The resigning staff said the decision undermines human rights, women’s and children’s access to education, and basic freedoms, and therefore lacks legitimacy. They expressed hope that Afghanistan would one day establish a government based on the will of its people.

Koofi, attending a two-day conference of Afghan political groups in Islamabad, described conditions in Afghanistan, particularly for women, as “unbearable.” She said the country needs meaningful leadership, inclusive narratives and a political system that respects the rights of all citizens.

“This two-day dialogue brings together a diverse group of men and women from Afghanistan to reflect on their country’s future,” she wrote on the X platform.

Koofi said Pakistan’s role in the process was “pivotal” and argued that constructive engagement is essential to addressing shared concerns and building mutual trust. She stressed that only a government based on the people’s will and constitutional order can guarantee security and regional stability.

The gathering, titled “Toward Unity and Trust,” opened on Monday after being postponed three times. It was organised by Women for Afghanistan and the Institute for South Asian Strategic Stability to foster dialogue between Afghan leaders and their Pakistani counterparts.

Zakir Jalali said on the X platform that recent high-level meetings and the release of American prisoners could pave the way for broader engagement between the Taliban and Washington.

He said relations should be based on “mutual respect and common interests” and noted that both sides had reached an understanding on addressing prisoner issues, with further discussions expected on other matters.

Jalali added that recognising the “realities and sensitivities” of each side could help shape the next stage of engagement.

Adam Boehler, President Donald Trump’s envoy for hostage affairs, arrived in Kabul on an unannounced trip, which his third visit in recent months.

Following the delegation’s visit, the Taliban Foreign Ministry announced Sunday that it had released an American citizen, identified as Amir Amiri. Sources told Afghanistan International that at least three other US nationals remain in Taliban custody.

Organisers said the gathering, held under the theme “Towards Unity and Trust”, will also explore ways to build confidence and promote common understanding among Afghan stakeholders.

The meeting, arranged by Women for Afghanistan and the South Asian Institute of Strategic Stability, brings together Afghan political figures, women, and diplomats for dialogue with Pakistani counterparts. The event had been postponed several times before going ahead this week.

Participants include Fawzia Koofi, a former member of parliament; Mustafa Mastoor, Afghanistan’s former economy minister; Nasir Ahmad Andisha, former Afghan representative to the UN in Geneva; Ahmadullah Alizai, former Kabul governor; and Tahir Zohair, former Bamiyan governor.

Others in attendance include Abdullah Qarluq of the National Islamic Movement Party, Masouma Khawari of the Islamic Unity Party of Afghanistan, and Bashir Ahmad Ansari, a writer and religious scholar.