Kabul: After seven months in captivity, British nationals Peter Reynolds, 80, and Barbie Reynolds, 76, have been released by the Taliban in Afghanistan. The couple, who dedicated the past two decades to advancing education rights and social development in Afghanistan, were apprehended on February 1 while returning to their home in Bamiyan province.
The Taliban cited alleged violations of Afghan law as the reason for their detention, though specific charges were never clarified. Their release followed intensive Qatar-mediated negotiations, underscoring the role of international diplomacy in securing the freedom of foreign nationals in conflict zones.
Peter and Barbie Reynolds have been actively involved in education initiatives for Afghan students for nearly 20 years, running a charitable training program for the last 18 years. Despite the exodus of many Westerners following the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021, the couple chose to remain, committed to the rights and education of Afghan youth.
The reunion at Doha airport was emotional, with their daughter, Sarah Entwistle, waiting anxiously for months to embrace her parents. Eyewitnesses described heartfelt scenes as the couple disembarked, marking the end of a prolonged period of uncertainty and fear.
The couple’s release highlights the precarious conditions for humanitarian and educational workers under Taliban rule and emphasizes the continuing international efforts to protect the rights and safety of civilians and foreign nationals engaged in development work in Afghanistan.