The Taliban has conveyed its commitment to releasing a British couple, Peter and Barbie Reynolds, aged 79 and 75, who were arrested in Afghanistan in early February. The couple, known for their humanitarian work in the country, was apprehended while returning to their home in Bamiyan province, alongside an American national and an Afghan citizen.
Taliban Promises Efforts to Secure Release of Detained British Couple
Taliban Promises Efforts to Secure Release of Detained British Couple
The Taliban expresses intent to release a British couple, detained in Afghanistan, as soon as circumstances allow.
The Taliban's spokesperson, Abdul Mateen Qani, stated, "A series of considerations is being taken into account, and after evaluation, we will endeavour to release them as soon as possible." The couple had been actively involved in various training projects, including educational programs aimed at mothers and children, a venture that received local approval despite the Taliban's policies restricting education for girls over 12 and barring women from employment in NGOs.
Their daughter, Sarah Entwistle, has been in touch with the Taliban, pleading for her parents' release, emphasizing the couple's long-standing commitment to Afghanistan. The UK Foreign Office is involved, but acknowledges the challenges of providing assistance as the embassy in Kabul has been closed since the Taliban's resurgence in 2021.
As communication has ceased for over two weeks, Ms. Entwistle expressed growing impatience for answers, urging the British consulate to intensify their efforts in pressing for her parents' return. This case highlights the delicate nature of foreign relations and humanitarian efforts in a region currently under strict Taliban governance.
The Reynolds, who wed in Kabul in 1970, remained in Afghanistan post-Taliban takeover, when many Westerners evacuated. Their arrest raises significant concerns about the safety of foreign nationals engaging in humanitarian work within the country under the current regime.
Their daughter, Sarah Entwistle, has been in touch with the Taliban, pleading for her parents' release, emphasizing the couple's long-standing commitment to Afghanistan. The UK Foreign Office is involved, but acknowledges the challenges of providing assistance as the embassy in Kabul has been closed since the Taliban's resurgence in 2021.
As communication has ceased for over two weeks, Ms. Entwistle expressed growing impatience for answers, urging the British consulate to intensify their efforts in pressing for her parents' return. This case highlights the delicate nature of foreign relations and humanitarian efforts in a region currently under strict Taliban governance.
The Reynolds, who wed in Kabul in 1970, remained in Afghanistan post-Taliban takeover, when many Westerners evacuated. Their arrest raises significant concerns about the safety of foreign nationals engaging in humanitarian work within the country under the current regime.
