Taliban Cracks Down on Afghan International TV, Media Freedom at Risk

The Taliban government has escalated its crackdown on press freedom by shutting down Afghan International, a popular London-based television channel, in the Afghan capital, Kabul. The channel’s terrestrial signal was blocked on September 5, following a statement by Taliban Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Stanekzai, who labeled Afghan International as an “enemy” after it reported on alleged misuse of flood aid in northern Baghlan province.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has voiced alarm over the move, emphasizing that the situation for journalists in Afghanistan has become increasingly perilous under Taliban rule. In May, Taliban officials had already ordered both journalists and civilians to boycott Afghan International, further limiting the public’s access to independent news.

Since the Taliban’s return to power, media restrictions have been tightening, and the shutdown of Afghan International is the latest in a series of actions aimed at stifling independent journalism. CPJ warned that any media outlet attempting to provide accurate and critical information now faces significant risks from authorities.

The closure of Afghan International has raised serious concerns about the future of free expression in Afghanistan. With international observers closely monitoring the situation, the Taliban’s actions are seen as part of a broader effort to silence dissent and restrict access to information.