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News in brief

Afghan Taliban and U.S. execute prisoner exchange

Tuesday 21 January 2025 - 09:09

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The Afghan Taliban government announced a prisoner swap with the United States, facilitated by Qatar. According to the Afghan foreign ministry, an Afghan national named Khan Mohammad, who had been serving a life sentence in California after being detained nearly two decades ago in Nangarhar Province, has been released. In return, the Taliban freed American citizens held in Afghanistan.

Details on the number of U.S. prisoners involved remain undisclosed. However, prior statements from the Taliban in 2022 referenced two American detainees, identified by media as William McKenty and Ryan Corbett.

The announcement follows contentious U.S. policy shifts, including the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. The Taliban government, which regained power that same year, expressed hopes for a “new chapter” in relations with the U.S., emphasizing dialogue as a pathway to improved ties.

The exchange was praised as a positive step by the Taliban, who acknowledged Qatar’s crucial role in mediating the deal. While the Taliban seek international recognition, significant issues, such as restrictions on women’s rights, remain barriers to formal acceptance.

Many foreign nationals have been detained by the Taliban since their return to power, though the exact number of Afghan prisoners in U.S. custody is unclear. Notably, one Afghan remains detained at Guantanamo Bay, with his family calling for his release in late 2023.