An American woman released from Taliban detention has warned that a British couple being held in Afghanistan are “literally dying” in prison.
Arrest and Detention
Faye Hall, an American, was arrested on 1 February alongside Peter Reynolds, 80, and his wife Barbie, 76. The group had returned to Bamiyan Province, where the couple had lived for 18 years.
While Ms Hall was freed after two months, the British couple remain behind bars. Despite appearing in court four times, they still do not know why they are being held.
Fears for Their Health
Speaking to BBC Breakfast, Ms Hall broke down in tears. She said she loved the couple and urged them not to give up hope.
She warned that both Peter and Barbie’s health is deteriorating quickly. Barbie has lost weight and, at one point, could not stand or walk. Peter, who needs daily medication after heart surgery and cancer treatment, has been getting sicker even with limited support.
“They’re elderly, they’re literally dying, and time is running out,” she said.
Prison Conditions
Ms Hall described cramped cells, barbed wire fences, and armed guards. The couple were held in a maximum-security prison with convicted criminals. She stressed that the mental toll was as severe as the physical suffering.
International Response
The UN has already warned that the couple could die without urgent medical care, calling their detention “inhumane.”
The UK Foreign Office said it is supporting the family but admitted help is “severely limited” since Britain shut its Kabul embassy in 2021.
The US State Department accused the Taliban of “hostage diplomacy” and urged them to free all unjustly detained foreigners.
A Plea for Action
Ms Hall has called on both the UK and US governments to work together. She believes stronger action is needed before it is too late.
