Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., is urging the United Nations to condemn the Taliban’s nationwide internet blackout in Afghanistan, calling it a threat to basic freedoms and U.S. national security.
In a letter dated Sept. 30 to U.S. Ambassador to the United
Nations Michael Waltz, Burchett said the blackout, imposed Sept. 29, silences
dissent, isolates the country and blocks women and girls from education and
advocacy. He described the move as a “flagrant assault on the Afghan people’s
fundamental rights.”
Burchett pressed Waltz to propose a U.N. resolution
demanding the restoration of internet access and the reimposition of travel
restrictions on Taliban leaders. He also urged greater U.S. support for
anti-Taliban opposition groups, including former acting President Amrullah
Saleh.
“The Taliban maintains ties with Al-Qaeda and other
terrorist groups, valuing control and extremism above the Afghan people’s
welfare,” Burchett wrote. “This blackout is clear evidence of their commitment
to tyranny over progress.”
Burchett asked for an update on U.S. efforts at the U.N. and
called for a “cohesive strategy” in confronting the Taliban.
