Taliban Internal Rift Internet Shutdown Reveals Power Struggle
A BBC investigation reveals a major Taliban internal rift following a refused internet shutdown order. Explore the clash between Kandahar's isolationists and Kabul's pragmatists.
One flag, two visions: the Taliban is fracturing from within. A major investigation by the BBC has uncovered a significant clash of wills at the top of the group, suggesting that the barrels of their guns are increasingly pointed inward rather than at external enemies.
Taliban Internal Rift Internet Shutdown: A Defiance of Absolute Power
According to leaked audio obtained by BBC Afghan, Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada warned that internal disagreements could eventually bring the entire Emirate down. The speech, delivered in January 2025, confirmed months of rumors about a split between the 'Kandahar house' and the 'Kabul group'.
The Kandahar faction, led by Akhundzada, advocates for a strict, isolated Islamic state. In contrast, the Kabul group, including powerful ministers like Sirajuddin Haqqani, wants an Afghanistan that engages with the outside world, builds its economy, and potentially allows education for girls.
The September Rebellion
The tension reached a breaking point in late September 2025 when Akhundzada ordered a total internet and phone shutdown to sever the country from the rest of the world. Surprisingly, the internet was back online within 3 days. Insiders report that the Kabul ministers acted against his explicit orders—an act described as nothing short of a rebellion.
This content is AI-generated based on source articles. While we strive for accuracy, errors may occur. We recommend verifying with the original source.
Related Articles
As the US tightens pressure on Iran, China is expanding economic footholds across the Middle East—from energy deals to infrastructure and diplomacy. What's really changing?
Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te was grounded before his flight even took off, after three African nations denied overflight rights. Beijing called it the right choice. The implications stretch far beyond one cancelled trip.
Trump claims a US-Iran nuclear deal could come within days, following the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire and Iran's reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. What's real, what's posturing, and what's at stake.
Vietnam's new paramount leader chose Beijing as his first foreign visit after consolidating power. Infrastructure deals, joint statements, and a symbolic train ride—what does it all mean?
As the US tightens pressure on Iran, China is expanding economic footholds across the Middle East—from energy deals to infrastructure and diplomacy. What's really changing?
Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te was grounded before his flight even took off, after three African nations denied overflight rights. Beijing called it the right choice. The implications stretch far beyond one cancelled trip.
Trump claims a US-Iran nuclear deal could come within days, following the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire and Iran's reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. What's real, what's posturing, and what's at stake.
Vietnam's new paramount leader chose Beijing as his first foreign visit after consolidating power. Infrastructure deals, joint statements, and a symbolic train ride—what does it all mean?
Thoughts
Share your thoughts on this article
Sign in to join the conversation