Sudan to Suspend WhatsApp Calls Citing National Security Concerns

Sudan’s Telecommunications and Post Regulatory Authority has announced it will suspend voice and video call services on Meta’s WhatsApp platform beginning next Friday,citing threats to national security. The decision,described as a “precautionary measure,” comes as the war-torn country struggles with severely damaged communication infrastructure,particularly in Darfur and Kordofan.

The restriction is expected to significantly disrupt communication for many Sudanese,both within the country and abroad. With traditional telecom networks unreliable or destroyed in parts of the country,WhatsApp’s voice features have become a vital alternative. The regulator stated that other services—such as text messaging and group chats—will remain operational,while urging users to prioritise national interests over personal convenience.

This marks the first targeted restriction of WhatsApp services in Sudan,placing the country in a category with others like the UAE that limit internet-based calling. The move is likely to widen the communication gap for millions amid Sudan’s ongoing humanitarian crisis,further complicating efforts for families to stay connected and for information to flow freely.