Afghans have taken to the streets to rejoice in the restoration of internet and telecom services after the Taliban government shut them down, provoking widespread condemnation. Local reporters said communications were resuming across provinces, while internet monitor Netblocks said network data showed a "partial restoration" of connectivity. A source close to the government confirmed to BBC Afghan that the internet was back by order of the Taliban prime minister. "From women, to men and Talibs [a member of the Taliban], each was talking on phones after services were restored. Afghan women have told the BBC that the internet is a lifeline to the outside world since the Taliban banned girls over the age of 12 from getting an education.