Shamshad radio and television network halted broadcasts Friday evening, local sources and the network’s leadership confirmed, with no public explanation yet available.
According to multiple sources, transmissions ceased at approximately 9:30 p.m. local time. Shamshad’s management told employees that TV, radio and online programming would be suspended “for an indefinite period.” As of now, officials have not offered further details on the cause or duration of the blackout.
Media crackdowns under Taliban rule: Since the Taliban resumed control in 2021, many private media outlets have struggled with censorship, regulatory pressure and financial constraints. Around 100 local media outlets have suspended operations, and many broadcasters rely on self-censorship to avoid penalties. 
Shamshad Media Network, founded in 2005 and operating largely in Pashto, has faced direct constraints in the past.
The media suspension comes amid heightened hostilities along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border. Earlier this week, the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) recorded 462 civilian casualties (37 killed and 425 wounded) tied to cross‑border clashes. 
The United Nations has reported that the Taliban have arbitrarily detained journalists more than 250 times since their takeover, raising serious concerns about the safety and autonomy of the press in Afghanistan. 
