Elderly British-Afghan Couple Freed After 7-Month Taliban Detention, Returns too UK
DOHA, Qatar – An elderly British-afghan couple, Peter Reynolds, 80, and his wife Barbie, 76, are returning to Britain on Saturday after being released from a seven-month detention by the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. Thier release follows high-level negotiations between the UK and the Taliban, mediated by Qatar, and has been hailed as a exhibition of the power of diplomacy.
The Reynolds, who hold Afghan citizenship and had resided in Afghanistan for nearly two decades, were detained on February 1 while traveling home. The Taliban stated they were held for breaking Afghan laws, but never publicly specified the charges. Their release was secured after extensive diplomatic efforts, culminating in a reunion with their daughter, Sarah Entwistle, in Qatar.
“This experience has reminded us of the power of diplomacy, empathy and international cooperation. We are forever grateful to the Qatari and British governments for standing with us during this difficult time. Thank you for giving us our family back,” Entwistle said following the reunion, as reported by the BBC.
Qatar’s role in the negotiations was praised by both the family and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who acknowledged Qatar’s “vital role” in securing the couple’s freedom.Mirdef Ali Al-Qashouti, acting Charge d’affaires of the Qatar Embassy in kabul, emphasized Qatar’s commitment to mediation and diplomacy.
“Actually, it’s continuous efforts by my government to keep our policy in helping to release hostages, and our mediation and diplomacy,” Al-Qashouti stated. He added that Qatar is “very grateful to Afghanistan and the UK for their cooperation to conclude this case in this way.”
Despite their ordeal, Barbie Reynolds expressed a desire to return to afghanistan if possible, telling AFP at Kabul airport, “We are looking forward to returning to Afghanistan if we can.” Their son, Jonathan Reynolds, described himself as “ecstatic and massively grateful” to those involved in their release.
The case underscores Qatar’s ongoing efforts to promote peace and stability through dialog, with officials arguing that mediation is effective when both parties are willing to negotiate. Qatar maintains it will continue to pursue peaceful resolutions to conflicts worldwide.
