UPDATE: U.S. hostage Amir Amiry has been released after being held captive by the Taliban for nine months, officials confirmed. He is currently en route back to the United States following successful negotiations with Qatari mediators. This marks the fifth American release from Taliban detention this year.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised Qatar’s “tireless diplomatic efforts” that were instrumental in securing Amiry’s freedom. “Amiry was wrongfully detained,” Rubio stated, although details surrounding the circumstances of his captivity remain unclear. He emphasized that other U.S. citizens are still “unjustly detained” in Afghanistan.
Before returning to the U.S., Amiry will stop in Doha, Qatar, according to the country’s foreign minister, who played a key role in facilitating the negotiations. Discussions for Amiry’s release began in March, led by U.S. hostage envoy Adam Boehler, with a breakthrough achieved just this past weekend.
This release follows a notable trend, as just two months ago, two other Americans, including Ryan Corbett, were freed in a controversial prisoner swap involving the Taliban. Corbett was abducted while on a work trip in 2022. In exchange, the U.S. released Khan Mohammad, a Taliban figure serving a life sentence in California for drug trafficking and terrorism charges.
Earlier this year, two additional Americans, George Glezmann and another unnamed individual, were released in March after being detained during their travels in Afghanistan. The ongoing situation highlights the precarious nature of American citizens abroad and the urgent need for diplomatic resolutions.
Moreover, the Taliban’s recent actions, including a ban on media depicting humans or animals under new strict religious laws, continue to raise concerns about human rights and freedom of expression in Afghanistan.
As the negotiations continue for other detained Americans, families await news with bated breath. The emotional toll is evident; Sarah Entwistle, daughter of British couple Peter and Barbie Reynolds, released earlier this month, expressed relief and joy upon their return. “While the road to recovery will be long as our parents regain their health and spend time with their family, today is a day of tremendous joy and relief,” she stated.
The U.S. and its allies remain vigilant as the situation unfolds. Further developments are expected, and authorities are urging the public to stay informed about ongoing negotiations for the release of other hostages still held in Afghanistan.
