The Taliban have suspended polio vaccination campaigns in Afghanistan, causing a devastating setback for polio eradication efforts. The UN has expressed concern that any unvaccinated groups of children where the virus is spreading could undo years of progress. No reason was given for the suspension, and the Taliban-controlled government has not provided any comment. The World Health Organization has confirmed 18 polio cases in Afghanistan this year, up from six cases in 2023. The suspension of polio campaigns in Afghanistan may have major repercussions for other countries in the region and beyond.