The Week of September 29-October 5
Security and Conflict
Cross Border Fighting in Kunar – On Thursday, clashes erupted between Taliban fighters and Pakistani border forces in the Doklam area of Naray district, Kunar province. The fighting began around 7 a.m. and continued intermittently, with heavy fire reported from both sides. Local sources claim Pakistani forces targeted residential homes, forcing civilians to flee. A Taliban member identified as Zarin Khan, from Laghman’s Gharghai district, was reportedly killed during the fighting. Additional clashes occurred around noon on Friday in Kunar’s Dangam district.
Four Talibs Killed in Kapisa – On Friday, four Taliban fighters were shot dead by unidentified gunmen during a gathering in Daram village, Tagab district, Kapisa province. Local sources identified two of the victims as brothers, Shafiullah and Talib Jan, from Tagab and Alasay districts. The attackers escaped after the shooting. Taliban authorities in Kapisa confirmed the killings but provided no additional details.
Increased Searches and Checkpoints During Blackout – During the recent 48-hour internet and telecom blackout, Taliban fighters in Kabul conducted phone inspections targeting young people in neighborhoods including Pul Bagh Omomi, Deh Mazang, and Kot-e-Sangi. Taliban intelligence agents on motorcycles stopped residents in streets and alleyways to check smartphones, with operations intensifying during the outage.
Explosion in Panjshir – Around 5:50 p.m. on Friday, a strong explosion occurred in Rokha district of Panjshir province. The blast was reportedly heard across multiple parts of the district. No information has yet emerged regarding the cause, casualties, or damage, and Taliban authorities in Panjshir have not issued a statement.
Checkpoints Shift in Panjshir – The Taliban have relocated several security posts from mountainous areas to residential zones, tightening surveillance on routes leading into the province. Locals report increased checkpoints and restricted movement, particularly in Dara district.
Human Rights and Civil Liberties
Advisor Detained – Taliban adviser Farooq Azam has been transferred from detention to Kabul’s military court prison after being arrested on orders from Mullah Hibatullah. Ministers told him his comments supporting girls’ education were viewed as rebellion and demanded a public apology, which he refused. Dr. Azam was released on Thursday.
Floggings – This week, 11 men and 7 women were flogged in Khost, Kapisa, and Maidan Wardak provinces.
Internal Politics
Cabinet Meeting on Bagram – Mullah Hibatullah convened a three-day meeting in Kandahar with provincial and district officials to discuss the status of Bagram Airbase, amid reports that former U.S. President Donald Trump seeks to regain control of it. The agenda also includes internal reforms, media directives, and potential dismissals of disobedient members. The Taliban have not commented publicly. The gathering follows Trump’s repeated statements about returning U.S. forces to Bagram, prompting Taliban leaders, including Fasihuddin Fitrat and Tajmir Jawad, to warn that they would resist any foreign incursion and, if provoked, resume suicide bombings
Bagram Rumors – Despite widespread rumors of developments at Bagram during the internet and phone blackout, no flights, troop movements, or major activities have been reported by locals near the base. Both the U.S. and Taliban have denied reports of a U.S. takeover. However, there were accounts of drone patrols in Parwan province near Bagram on Saturday. We will continue to monitor for updates.
Disruption to Services for Returnees – On Tuesday and Wednesday, the nationwide internet shutdown crippled aid operations for returnees at Afghanistan’s border crossings, particularly Islam Qala and Spin Boldak. Registration systems—fully computerized for processing returnees from Iran and Pakistan—went offline, preventing migrants from receiving cash or other assistance. Officials are struggling with manual records, many aid workers have left their posts, and migrants face mounting hardships as support programs remain stalled until connectivity is restored.
Banking Disruptions after Internet Return – Afghan citizens report that banking disruptions persist two days after internet services were restored, with transfers still delayed and systems not fully operational. Residents face difficulties accessing remittances, while banks cite ongoing technical problems.
Full Staff of Bonn Consulate Resign in Protest of Taliban Appointees – On Monday, the entire staff of Afghanistan’s Consulate General in Bonn resigned in protest after Germany accepted Taliban-appointed diplomats, acting head Hamed Nangiali Kabiri announced. He said Berlin plans to send a Taliban diplomat to the consulate—calling the decision unacceptable and warning that it risks exposing sensitive Afghan citizens’ data. Kabiri added that all documents and assets of the mission will be handed over to Germany’s Foreign Ministry for safekeeping. The Taliban official reportedly arrived at the consulate on Friday.
International Developments
Taliban Release US Citizen – On Sunday, September 28, the Taliban released American citizen Amir Amiri after nine months in custody. His release followed the arrival of U.S. hostage affairs envoy Adam Boehler in Kabul and mediation by Qatar, with Amiri flown to Doha the same evening. Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi described the move as a “positive step” in bilateral relations. It remains unclear how many U.S. citizens are currently detained by the Taliban.
Freedom of the Press
Internet and Phone Services Cut – Mullah Hibatullah ordered a nationwide shutdown of fiber-optic internet on Monday, September 29, at 5 p.m., cutting Afghanistan completely offline. Mobile data and cellphone services were also disabled, leaving millions unable to communicate domestically or internationally.
The blackout severely disrupted daily life. Air travel was impacted, with approximately ten flights to and from Kabul—including routes to Dubai—canceled over a 48-hour period. Banking services and ATMs were also affected.
On Wednesday, at approximately 4:45 p.m., mobile internet service was restored, and Wi-Fi reportedly returned in several provinces. Following the restoration, flights resumed, and banks and border crossings reopened. No official explanation has been provided for the reinstatement of services.
Taliban Publish Forced Confession of Journalist – On Thursday, the Taliban-linked outlet Saday-e-HinduKush released a video showing journalist Mahdi Ansari’s forced confession, accusing him of spreading “propaganda against the regime.” Ansari, who had worked with Afghanistan International and Hasht-e-Subh, appeared in the video expressing regret for covering women’s protests and collaborating with anti-Taliban media. He was abducted in Kabul’s Dasht-e-Barchi area in October 2024 and sentenced to 18 months in prison. The Taliban claim he disseminated “toxic propaganda” through fake online accounts.
Regional Developments
Taliban to Join Moscow Format – On Sunday, September 28, Russian Ambassador Dmitry Zhirnov confirmed that Russia will host Afghanistan as a member of the Moscow Format for the first time at its seventh session in October. The Taliban-led government hailed the move as a significant milestone, saying participation in regional forums could help build trust and strengthen engagement with neighboring countries.
Muttaqi to Travel to Moscow and India – Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi will travel to India next week after attending the Moscow Format, following a UN exemption allowing the visit. The trip aims to advance several objectives: securing recognition for Taliban-appointed diplomats in Delhi and consulates; expanding political and economic ties with India amid deteriorating relations with Pakistan; and countering China’s growing influence in Afghanistan’s resource sector. Talks are also expected on sustaining the Chabahar trade corridor despite U.S. sanctions and on increasing Indian humanitarian assistance—seen by the Taliban as vital to both domestic legitimacy and regional positioning.
Afghan Political Conference Held in Islamabad – On Monday, a two-day conference titled “Toward Unity and Trust” opened in Islamabad, bringing together Afghan political figures to discuss the country’s future and regional cooperation. Organized by Women for Afghanistan and the South Asian Strategic Stability Institute, the event focused on building trust, strengthening bilateral relations, and developing people-centered solutions to regional challenges. The first session highlighted Afghan perspectives on political pathways, while the second fostered Afghan-Pakistani dialogue. Participants included Fawzia Koofi, Mustafa Mastoor, Nasir Ahmad Andisha, Ahmadullah Alizai, and Tahir Zohair, among others.
US Visa Processing Information/US Legal Information
*Note- Updated this week: 10/5/2025
Travel restrictions out of Kabul – Recent, unconfirmed reports indicate that the Taliban are blocking outbound passengers from Afghanistan to several destinations, including Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, and Sri Lanka. Rumors suggest the restrictions stem from concerns over fraudulent visas issued for travel to these countries. Despite these bans, U.S. embassies continue scheduling visa interviews for Afghans, leaving many unable to depart even with valid documents. The Afghan Digest will continue monitoring developments.
SIV Case Transfer Updates – SIV applicants can request a transfer of their Afghan SIV case to a U.S. embassy in another country by emailing NVCSIV@state.gov with their full name, date of birth, NVC case number, and the name of the desired embassy. The National Visa Center reviews these requests and informs applicants whether the requested embassy is accepting SIV cases at that time.
SIV Processing – SIV cases remain exempt from the U.S. travel ban. However, CARE flights have ended and will not resume, meaning applicants whose cases are ready for interview must process through a third-country embassy at their own expense—including travel, medical exams, lodging, and onward U.S. travel. Applicants must maintain valid legal status (e.g., visa) in their host country.
Before requesting a transfer, applicants should research local visa requirements, processing times, living costs, and renewal options. Many embassies face large backlogs and may refuse transfers. Do not relocate until receiving written confirmation from both the NVC and the U.S. embassy approving your transfer and interview date. Consider obtaining multi-entry visas for nearby countries for added flexibility. (Note: Dushanbe is not currently accepting SIV cases.)
ICE Information – ICE detentions remain a serious concern for Afghans in the U.S. A recent Supreme Court decision lifted restrictions on immigration enforcement in Los Angeles, allowing ICE to resume stops based on appearance, language, job, or location. Afghans—especially those who served the U.S. or hold legal or refugee status—have reportedly been detained even during routine immigration appointments. Those at risk should carry proof of legal status, know their rights under U.S. law, and be prepared in case they are stopped by ICE. Information on rights can be found here.
USCIS Moral Character Requirements – USCIS has updated its “good moral character” standards for green card holders applying for naturalization, expanding the scope of review to include social media activity, neighborhood checks, and potential screening for “anti-American” content or associations. Officers may now consider online behavior, community reputation, and overall conduct when assessing eligibility. Afghans and other applicants should use caution with public posts and maintain clear records of positive community engagement and lawful behavior.
SPOTLIGHT ANALYSIS
Analysis: Understanding the Taliban’s Two-Day Internet Blackout
TAD Staff
The Taliban’s decision to cut off internet access across Afghanistan for two days can best be understood within the broader context of shifting regional dynamics, internal divisions, and evolving foreign relations. While the move initially appeared abrupt and unexplained, closer examination suggests it may have been driven by a combination of strategic, political, and security calculations as the Taliban recalibrate their alliances and priorities.
1. Calculated Strategic Move (Most Likely)
In recent months, the Taliban have faced growing pressure from both Pakistan and Iran. Pakistan has continued airstrikes and cross-border shelling while also expelling Afghan refugees, and Iran has adopted similar measures, signaling their frustration with Kabul’s policies. At the same time, China’s failure to fulfill major mining contracts has deprived the Taliban of expected revenue and resources, weakening their economic credibility at home. Beijing’s inaction has embarrassed the regime internally, undermining its claims of being able to create jobs and improve living conditions through foreign investment.
Simultaneously, the United States has renewed its pressure on the Taliban, albeit through diplomatic rather than military means. President Donald Trump repeatedly demanded the return of weapons left behind in Afghanistan and later began focusing on the possibility of regaining control over Bagram Airbase. Washington also added Afghanistan to its list of countries detaining U.S. citizens unjustly—a move that seemed aimed at pressuring the Taliban into negotiations. The recent release of American and British nationals following talks indicates that both sides remain willing to engage, suggesting some progress in backchannel diplomacy.
Within this context, the two-day internet blackout most likely represented a calculated strategic move—an opportunity to reconfigure or secure the country’s communications infrastructure while demonstrating control over information flows. The blackout may have reduced exposure to foreign surveillance, especially if Chinese or other external systems were involved, and allowed the Taliban to assert authority amid growing internal and external challenges. This interpretation aligns with the movement’s emerging pragmatism: a shift from rigid ideological isolation toward adaptive engagement with regional and even Western actors.
2. Ideological Directive (Alternative)
Another possible explanation is that the blackout was an ideological directive issued by Supreme Leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada. Known for his hardline stance and deep suspicion of foreign influence, Mullah Hibatullah may have ordered the shutdown as both a symbolic and practical assertion of clerical authority. Internal reports of factional divisions suggest that pragmatist figures—those advocating for strategic flexibility—may have opposed this move, prompting a rapid reversal once its costs became apparent. While this scenario underscores the Taliban’s ongoing ideological tensions, it appears less likely given the timing and evidence pointing to infrastructure adjustments.
3. Crisis Response to Breach (Least Likely)
A third, less convincing explanation is that the blackout was a crisis response to a suspected cyber intrusion or surveillance breach. In this scenario, Taliban authorities may have implemented the shutdown as a containment measure to prevent further compromise. However, the absence of corroborating indicators—such as follow-up security alerts or public statements—makes this hypothesis improbable.
Conclusion
The Taliban most likely used the blackout as a deliberate balancing act: tightening control over national communications while creating maneuvering space in ongoing regional and U.S. engagements. The episode fits within a broader pattern of strategic adaptation, reflecting the regime’s attempt to balance ideology with survival imperatives. Alternative explanations rooted in ideological assertion or crisis management remain possible but do not align as strongly with the prevailing political and infrastructural context.
NEXT WEEK
In Afghanistan, a high-level cabinet meeting is currently underway in Kandahar, reportedly addressing recent U.S. statements on Bagram, ongoing communication disruptions, and other related issues. It remains unclear what policy decisions may result from this meeting. While Wi-Fi service has been restored, fiber-based internet—particularly for homes and private businesses—appears most vulnerable to future restrictions. Full mobile internet cuts and complete cellular blackouts are less likely this week.
The security situation remains tense. Recent U.S. statements and regional developments appear to have heightened Taliban security concerns. Targeted detentions and killings are likely to continue, particularly of former republic soldiers, NDS personnel, and individuals linked to resistance groups. Intensified security crackdowns—especially in the north—should be anticipated, including house-to-house searches, phone inspections, and additional checkpoints. The Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has also established neighborhood committees, officially to monitor moral conduct but likely to track anti-Taliban activity as well. The risk of human rights violations remains elevated.
Deportations from both Iran and Pakistan continue and are expected to increase in the coming week. Raids have been reported in Islamabad’s B-17 area, and many refugee camps are scheduled for closure. Iranian officials have likewise announced plans to expand deportations. Recently returned individuals face a heightened risk of detention or killing, and at-risk families should remain extremely vigilant. Afghans in Iran or Pakistan facing possible deportation are advised to lock their social media accounts and clear message histories.
Afghans living abroad should not travel to Afghanistan at this time. Some countries are also reexamining asylum cases for Afghans who have returned after claiming danger. Afghans in the U.S., including green-card holders, should avoid international travel due to possible detention upon reentry. The recent nationwide communications blackout—which cut off internet and mobile services, grounded flights, and led to temporary border closures—underscores how quickly Afghanistan can become isolated during crises. The Taliban rarely permit welfare checks on detainees, and reports describe prolonged detention, limited medical access, and physical abuse.
REGIONAL ROUNDUP
IRAN
Deportations to Increase – Tehran Governor Mohammad Sadegh Motamedian announced that the second phase of Afghan migrant deportations has begun, describing it as the “expulsion of foreign nationals.” He stated that approximately 3,000 classrooms in Tehran have been left empty and rental prices have fallen by up to 35% as a result. The renewed deportation campaign represents a significant escalation in Iran’s removal of Afghan migrants, which authorities claim is part of broader domestic security measures.
PAKISTAN
Operation near Afghan Border – On Wednesday, Pakistani forces killed 13 militants in two operations in Balochistan province near the Afghan border. The Pakistan Army’s media wing reported that intelligence-based raids in Quetta and Kech districts targeted fighters from the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). Ten militants were killed in Quetta and three in Kech, with weapons and explosives seized. The operations followed a suicide bombing in Quetta that killed at least ten people a day earlier.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister Statement on Discussions with The Taliban – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur announced that Pakistan’s federal government has approved his proposal to open talks with the Afghan Taliban to address ongoing violence in the province, calling the move “encouraging.” He emphasized that instability in Afghanistan directly affects law and order in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and said dialogue is essential for a lasting solution. Gandapur also highlighted local sacrifices in the fight against militancy, called for the dignified repatriation of Afghan refugees, and criticized past governments for failing to harness the province’s economic potential.
AFGHAN NEWS
After the Aid Axe: Charting a Path to Self-reliance in Afghanistan
International Crisis Group
Afghanistan is sinking deeper into poverty as the U.S. and other major donors slash the humanitarian funding that has kept the country afloat – if listing badly – since the Taliban takeover in 2021. Since seizing power, the regime has struggled to revive an economy devastated by war, post-war isolation and sanctions enforced by Western states. The retreat of donors now places a heavy burden on vulnerable Afghans, especially women and girls, who suffer the most from deteriorating public services. European states and countries in Afghanistan’s neighbourhood should cooperate in looking for ways to scale down aid while preserving people’s livelihoods. By relaxing the chokehold on the Afghan economy, they should aim to help the country overcome its dependence on foreign assistance and achieve self-reliance. Failure to do so might not debilitate the Taliban, who have long proven their resilience. But unlocking the gates to economic growth would curb the tremendous material hardships afflicting Afghanistan’s poorest and reduce the risks that could re-emerge from the country, such as terrorism and migration surges.
Is maternal mortality on the rise in Afghanistan? No official data, but much cause for concern
Jelena Bjelica
Afghanistan’s maternal mortality rate was already among the ten highest in the world, but it has come under further pressure. The United States’ decision to entirely cut aid to Afghanistan earlier this year has led to the closure of over 400 health facilities and that is likely to have particularly affected women during the most precarious events in their lives — pregnancy and childbirth. Coupled with that, there is a shortage of female doctors and midwives, likely to worsen as midwifery and female nurses’ training are now banned, along with all higher education for girls, including as doctors. Jelena Bjelica and AAN’s team have been trying to get a clearer sense of Afghanistan’s maternal mortality rate. They found quantitative data was scarce, but midwives, doctors and health officials in different provinces said they think the rate is increasing. They also heard from one Afghan who described how his family lost a female family member in childbirth due to poor healthcare.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Trump Administration Is Said to Plan to Cut Refugee Admissions to a Record Low
Zolan Kanno-Youngs, Hamed Aleaziz and Miriam Jordan
The Trump administration plans to slash refugee admissions to a record low level in the upcoming year, reserving a bulk of the limited slots for white Afrikaners from South Africa and others facing “unjust discrimination,” according to people familiar with the matter and documents obtained by The New York Times.
President Trump is expected to lower the ceiling on refugee admissions to 7,500, a drastic decrease from the cap of 125,000 set by the Biden administration last year, according to a presidential determination dated Sept. 30 and signed by Mr. Trump.
Afghani to the Dollar: $1 – 67.14 AFN (As of October 5)
