Afghan Taliban and U.S. execute prisoner exchange
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.
Lire aussi
Latest News
- 14:30 Strengthening ties: Morocco and China at the forefront of industrial partnership
- 12:20 Algeria's President admits to pressuring Spain on Sahara
- 11:50 Royal Air Maroc expands connectivity with new flight to Catania
- 11:33 Judge moves to prosecute Sánchez's brother and Extremadura PSOE leader for corruption and influence peddling
- 11:20 Catalonia emerges as the top destination for foreign job seekers in Spain
- 11:02 Philippines refutes Chinese claims over disputed reef
- 10:50 Integrating immigrants: A solution to Europe's demographic challenges