WhatsApp shuts down a group started by the Taliban to collect complaints from Afghans

Taking advantage of the announced departure of American troops, the Taliban managed to regain control of Afghanistan. Last Sunday, the extremist group captured the country’s capital, Kabul, before entering the presidential palace without the slightest conflict. Fearing the establishment of a sharia-based dictatorship, thousands of Afghans rushed to the airport and tried to flee the country.

Facebook quickly implemented restrictions. blocking the means of communication used by the insurgents. The social network announced that it banned all content related to the Taliban, as well as any content supporting them. ““The Taliban are criminalized as a terrorist organization under US law and we have banned them from our services in accordance with our policies regarding dangerous organizations.” Facebook says.

WhatsApp cracks down on the Taliban under US law

Not surprisingly, the measures taken by the Californian group also concern WhatsApp, the world’s #1 messaging app. As our colleagues at the Financial Times reported, WhatsApp shutting down a group created by the Taliban Shortly after entering Kabul.

This discussion group was set up by the new lords of Afghanistan so that the population could talk to them. Specifically, the Taliban collect statements about violence, looting, or other potential problems. According to American media, the Islamist group had already done this when they took the city of Kunduz in 2016.

“We are obligated to comply with US sanctions laws. This includes banning accounts that appear to be official Taliban accounts.”, a WhatsApp spokesperson explains to AFP. we will be surprised at this WhatsApp discusses US law to justify his decision. A few hours ago, its parent company Facebook had reassured that its measures were not dictated by others. “A government recognized in a particular country but respecting the authority of the international community”.

“We will take appropriate action against accounts and content that violates our rules, regardless of who has the power”continues the group by reminding that the paintings are accepted as terrorist organization.

WhatsApp comes under fire after group closes

This turn of the screw created a storm of criticism. According to several Afghanistan experts, This decision is counterproductive.. “Blocking communication between people and the Taliban does not help Afghans. If suddenly the Taliban cannot use WhatsApp, you isolate the Afghans, making it difficult for them to communicate in a panic.”Ashley Jackson estimates she is the author of a book devoted to the Taliban and their relationship with civilians. According to him, the Taliban are really trying to maintain public order. According to some statements, it would have also made it possible to report looting cases before the WhatsApp group was closed.

Taliban Spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid resigns first press conference of the insurgents Complaining about the measures implemented by American social networks. The official believes Facebook violates freedom of expression. “guarantors of this freedom of expression, but who do not allow the publication of all information“,” stressed Zabihullah Mujahid.

After this wave of criticism, WhatsApp has hinted that it may change its policy. “Given the evolving situation in Afghanistan, we request more information from the relevant US authorities.” Specify instant messaging.

While Facebook reacted sharply to the Taliban takeover, Twitter is more moderate. Jack Dorsey’s social network still allows rebel leaders to communicate through their Twitter accounts. However, Twitter reminds that it will not allow any content that glorifies terrorism or violence against citizens.