Taliban order ban on smartphones as officials shown destroying devices
The Taliban has issued a directive banning government officials from using smartphones, with reports suggesting the restriction may be expanding to the general public. Videos have surfaced showing officials destroying mobile devices to enforce the new policy.
Why it matters
This move signals an escalation in the Taliban's control over information access and digital communication within Afghanistan.
Stills from a video showing smartphones being destroyed by the Taliban after restrictions on their use were ordered. Critics fear a nationwide ban could follow View image in fullscreen Stills from a video showing smartphones being destroyed by the Taliban after restrictions on their use were ordered. Critics fear a nationwide ban could follow Rights and freedom Taliban Taliban order ban on smartphones as officials shown destroying devices Directive aimed at government workers, but reports of wider implementation spark warnings of future Afghanistan-wide prohibition
The reporting relies on documented directives and visual evidence, maintaining a neutral tone despite the sensitive subject matter.
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