On September 29, 2025, the Taliban suspended internet services across Afghanistan, according to a security alert issued by the U.S. Mission to Afghanistan from Doha, Qatar. The shutdown affects both broadband and mobile internet services throughout the country. There are reports that some individuals with satellite internet connections, such as Starlink, continue to have limited connectivity. Communication applications like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram are currently not functioning on mobile devices.
The alert states: "This outage severely limits the U.S. government’s ability to communicate directly with U.S. citizens in Afghanistan and further limits our ability to provide routine or emergency services to U.S. citizens in Afghanistan." The duration of the shutdown is unknown at this time.
U.S. citizens in Afghanistan are reminded that the Travel Advisory for Afghanistan remains at level 4 (“Do Not Travel”) due to ongoing risks including civil unrest, crime, terrorism, wrongful detention, kidnapping, and limited health facilities. The alert also notes that the U.S. Embassy in Kabul has suspended operations since 2021.
For more information about travel advisories and conditions in Afghanistan, individuals can refer to the Country Information Page provided by the U.S. Department of State.
The security alert advises Americans in Afghanistan to make contingency plans for alternative communication methods while internet service is unavailable.
Those seeking assistance regarding U.S. citizens in Afghanistan are directed to contact AfghanistanACS@state.gov or call State Department Consular Affairs at +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444. To receive alerts about developments affecting Americans abroad, individuals are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) or email CASTEP@state.gov for help.
Updates will also be posted on official Facebook and X accounts managed by consular authorities.