Is WhatsApp allowed in Afghanistan?
In the last five years, WhatsApp has become second only to Facebook as a way for Afghans to communicate with one another, and with the outside world. The app, which is owned by Facebook, has now also fully penetrated the highest echelons of the Afghan government and military.
Why is WhatsApp banned in Afghanistan?
Facebook said it would be blocking WhatsApp accounts linked to the Taliban as it considers the group to be a terrorist organisation. The social media giant said that the Taliban is sanctioned as a terrorist organisation under US law, and therefore the company is required to follow the US sanctions.
Does WhatsApp have a place in the Afghan War?
WhatsApp has proliferated in the highest echelons of the Afghan government — as well as among the Taliban. Both Afghan soldiers and Taliban fighters regularly use WhatsApp to communicate on and off the battlefield.
Do soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan get free phone calls?
There are a number of DSN (Defense Switched Network) phone centers and AT phone tents located throughout U.S. bases in Iraq and Afghanistan. A soldier is usually allowed free 15-minute “morale calls” to call family back home. How it works is that the call is placed to an Army base nearest to the family, which is usually a local call.
Are WhatsApp groups being used to communicate among Afghan security leaders?
On rare occasions, like the operation in Bala Murghab, United States military commanders are added to smaller groups, Afghan officials said. Mostly, though, WhatsApp groups are for communication among Afghan security leaders and their ground commanders.
Do Afghan security ministers talk to US generals on WhatsApp?
While Afghan security ministers might speak with Gen. Austin S. Miller, the top United States commander, on WhatsApp, they switch to secure lines for sensitive decisions. Taliban negotiators and members of the Afghan delegation at the Doha peace talks in July. Credit…