The United States has reiterated its commitment to securing the release of three American citizens detained in Afghanistan, emphasizing their well-being as a top priority.
State Department’s Position
Kabul 24: Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the State Department, expressed deep concern for the detained Americans—Mahmood, Ryan Corbett, and George Glezmann—during a recent press briefing. He stated that their cases are raised in every engagement with the Taliban, highlighting the U.S. government’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to facilitate their return home.
Calls for Political Engagement
Experts are urging the Taliban to consider a political resolution, advocating for a prisoner exchange. Hadi Quraishi emphasized the importance of diplomatic interactions, while Zakerullah Amirzadeh stressed that both sides should prioritize the release of their respective detainees to foster better relations.
Taliban’s Stance on Prisoner Exchange
The Taliban has indicated a willingness to negotiate a prisoner exchange, suggesting that the release of the Americans could be contingent on freeing Afghan prisoners held in the U.S. This includes Mohammed Rahim al-Afghani, the last Afghan national at Guantanamo Bay, and others detained on drug charges.
