The son of a British couple imprisoned by the Taliban in Afghanistan has expressed grave concerns about their welfare, amid reports they face serious health issues and inhumane conditions in detention.
Fears Grow for Health of British Couple Detained by Taliban
Fears Grow for Health of British Couple Detained by Taliban
Concerns escalate over the deteriorating health of Peter and Barbie Reynolds, as family and UN warn of potential risks.
Peter Reynolds, 80, and his wife Barbie, 76, were arrested on February 1 while returning to their home in Bamiyan province, marking five months of imprisonment without formal charges. Their son Jonathan Reynolds revealed to the BBC that their health is rapidly declining, with his father experiencing severe convulsions and his mother suffering from malnutrition and anaemia, which has led to her extremities turning blue.
The United Nations has issued warnings, describing their detention as "inhumane," urging that they require immediate medical care to avoid "irreparable harm or even death." The UN's human rights body questioned the justification for their continued detention, calling for a swift review of their case. They have described the conditions endured by the couple in maximum-security facilities as degrading, highlighting that Mr. Reynolds, at one point, was chained alongside violent criminals.
Jonathan, reflecting on his family's anguish, characterized the past months as "harrowing and surreal." He noted that his parents have been unable to receive adequate care; he last contacted them on June 15, revealing the alarming state of his father's health, including tremors reminiscent of early Parkinson's disease. With both parents celebrating birthdays and their 55th wedding anniversary behind bars, he expressed gratitude for their companionship but lamented their lack of freedom.
Despite promises from Taliban officials in February that the couple would be released "as soon as possible," Jonathan indicates ongoing uncertainty, with reports from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) offering little clarity. The couple had lived in Afghanistan for 18 years, working on education projects approved by local authorities, even in the wake of the Taliban's prohibitions against female education and employment.
A Taliban representative, Abdul Mateen Qani, has stated that a "series of considerations" is being evaluated regarding their situation. Meanwhile, the FCDO, after withdrawing its diplomatic presence following the Taliban’s takeover in 2021, acknowledges limited capacity to assist British nationals in the region. They continue to advise against all travel to Afghanistan.
As international calls increase for the couple's release and safety, the Reynolds family holds their breath, hoping for favorable news that may allow for their parents' safe return home.
