The Taliban released an American citizen, Amir Amiri, from an Afghan prison on Sunday. This follows discussions with U.S. envoys regarding prisoner exchanges, potentially aimed at easing relations.
While details surrounding Amiri’s detainment remain unclear, sources indicate he had been held since December 2024. His release was facilitated by Qatar, a country known for its security partnership with the U.S.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged Amiri’s release, affirming the administration’s resolve, strengthened by President Trump’s executive order, to safeguard Americans from wrongful imprisonment abroad. He emphasized that efforts would continue until all Americans held captive in Afghanistan are returned home.
Ahmad Habibi, whose brother Mahmood Habibi has been held by the Taliban for over three years, expressed gratitude for Amiri’s release and hope for his brother’s return. The circumstances surrounding Mahmood Habibi’s disappearance in 2022, where the FBI suspects Taliban involvement, remain unresolved despite Taliban denials.
The specifics of any exchange between the U.S. and the Taliban for these releases remain undisclosed. Afghanistan currently faces economic and humanitarian challenges. Despite these issues, Afghanistan remains a focus for President Trump, particularly concerning the strategic importance of Bagram Air Base.
