Taliban react to US decision: No foreign citizen detained 'for bargaining'
The Taliban Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed regret over the United States' recent decision to designate Afghanistan as a "country supporting unjust detentions," stating that no citizens of any country have been detained as a "bargaining tool."
According to the ministry's statement, some individuals were detained on charges of "violating enforceable laws," and many have been released normally after completing legal processes. The Taliban noted that over the past year, it has taken positive steps out of goodwill regarding cases of detained US citizens. The statement highlighted ongoing discussions at various levels between the Taliban government and the United States, facilitated by Qatar, during which both sides made commitments for positive actions. The Taliban expressed a desire to resolve the issue appropriately through current dialogues and "constructive engagement."
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the Taliban use "intimidation tactics" and detain individuals for ransom or political leverage, warning that such approaches will not work under the Trump administration and demanding the immediate release of US hostages. Adam Boehler, the US special envoy for hostages, warned the Taliban that after Venezuela and Iran, Afghanistan is next. Rubio specifically called for the release of detained US citizens including Mahmoud Habibi and Dennis Coil, a 64-year-old linguist and researcher.
The Taliban denies detaining Mahmoud Habibi, former head of Afghanistan's civil aviation authority. Both sources confirm prior releases of US detainees by the Taliban following negotiations. Ariana News reported that the designation could lead to restrictions on US passport use for travel to Afghanistan, currently applied only to North Korea.
US Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman also warned that the Taliban have used US money to fund "terror campaigns," imposed strict Sharia laws, and detained Americans including Dennis Coil and Mahmoud Habibi.
Know more about this story?
If you have additional information or believe something is inaccurate, let us know. Your tips help us stay accurate.
More in International
US National Counterterrorism Center Director Resigns Over War with Iran
US Authorities Arrest Afghan National Basir Ahmad Safi on Child Abuse Charges
Missiles and Drones Target US Embassy in Baghdad, Iraqi Security Sources Say
UN Secretary-General Guterres Urges Action Against Rising Islamophobia
ReliableUS National Counterterrorism Center Director Resigns Over War with Iran
Joe Kent, director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, resigned over opposition to the war with Iran, stating it poses no imminent US threat and stems from Israeli pressure. The move underscores growing criticism of the conflict amid escalating tensions.
ReliableUS Authorities Arrest Afghan National Basir Ahmad Safi on Child Abuse Charges
US authorities arrested Afghan national Basir Ahmad Safi, who entered the country in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome, on child abuse charges following a prior conviction in Florida. He is now in ICE custody awaiting deportation, amid ongoing concerns over vetting in the resettlement program.
DevelopingMissiles and Drones Target US Embassy in Baghdad, Iraqi Security Sources Say
Missiles and drones targeted the US embassy in Baghdad early Tuesday, with Iraqi security sources saying two were intercepted and one struck the compound, causing smoke and fire. The attack, likely by Iran-backed groups, occurs amid rising regional tensions linked to Iran, the US and Israel.
ReliableUN Secretary-General Guterres Urges Action Against Rising Islamophobia
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the international community to combat rising Islamophobia on the International Day to Combat Anti-Muslim Hatred, rejecting fear narratives and calling for unity to eliminate hatred against Muslims. He highlighted increasing hate crimes amplified by online platforms and political debates, warning of threats to social cohesion.