Calls for Release of British Couple Arrested by the Taliban Intensify

The calls for the release of Peter and Barbie Reynolds, a British couple arrested by the Taliban in early February, continue to grow.

Peter and Barbie Reynolds, both in their 70s, were detained on February 1, 2025, while traveling back to their home in Bamiyan province with their Chinese-American friend, Faye Hall. The couple have lived in Afghanistan for nearly two decades, dedicating their lives to educational initiatives, particularly programs supporting mothers and children. Despite their longstanding commitment to the country, their sudden arrest has raised serious concerns among their family and supporters.

Their daughter, Sarah Entwistle, spoke to Times Radio, explaining that the family initially refrained from involving UK authorities, believing their parents’ respectful engagement with the Taliban might lead to a resolution. However, after three weeks of silence, she stated that they could no longer wait. “We are now urgently calling on the British consulate to do everything in their power to get answers and exert as much pressure as possible on the Taliban for their release,” she said.

Initially, the couple was believed to be held by the Taliban’s Interior Ministry, but communication with them ceased after three days, intensifying fears for their safety. Shortly after their arrest, Taliban authorities raided their home and interrogated their staff, further alarming family members and supporters.

Peter and Barbie founded Rebuild, a non-profit organization that introduced participatory learning programs in schools and training courses for mothers. Barbie was even recognized by the Taliban with a certificate of appreciation for her contributions. Their work had been well-received by local communities, making their detention all the more perplexing. However, since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, restrictions on education, especially for women, have tightened, casting uncertainty over the future of their initiatives.

A major concern is Peter’s health, as he requires heart medication following a mini-stroke. The lack of information about his condition has only deepened the distress of their loved ones.

The Reynolds’ four children have made an emotional appeal to the Taliban leadership, emphasizing their parents’ dedication to Afghanistan and the Afghan people. In an open letter, they wrote: "They have communicated their trust in you and believe that, as Afghan citizens, they will be treated well."

The situation is further complicated by the absence of a UK embassy in Afghanistan. With no formal diplomatic ties between the UK and the Taliban, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has limited options for intervention.

The Reynolds’ case is part of a troubling pattern. In recent years, several foreign nationals, including journalists and aid workers, have been detained by the Taliban under vague or undisclosed charges. Their arrest underscores the increasing risks faced by foreigners involved in humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan.

The international community continues to call for the couple’s immediate release, urging diplomatic solutions to secure their safety. Advocacy groups and human rights organizations are also pressuring the Taliban to clarify the reasons for their detention, as concerns over their welfare grow.