Peter and Barbie Reynolds, a British couple in their 80s, have been detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan since February, raising serious concerns about their health and well-being. Their son, Jonathan Reynolds, revealed to the BBC that both parents are suffering significantly, with Peter experiencing severe convulsions and Barbie battling severe anemia and malnutrition. Despite their precarious condition, the couple has been held in dire prison circumstances without facing any formal charges.
The Taliban's foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, stated that both individuals are receiving medical care, but their son remains skeptical about their treatment. The United Nations has condemned their detention, calling it "inhumane" and warning that without immediate medical attention, they risk "irreparable harm or even death."
The couple has lived in Afghanistan for nearly two decades, previously running educational projects that aimed to empower local women and children. Jonathan expressed frustration at the slow pace of negotiations for their release, emphasizing that week after week, they are met with empty reassurances. He appreciates the engagement from the UK Foreign Office, but remains anxious as the fate of his parents hangs in the balance.
This week marked both their birthdays and their 55th wedding anniversary, further underscoring the emotional toll of their detention. Jonathan pleaded for a swift review of their case, reiterating a collective call for immediate action to secure their release and access to appropriate medical care.
The Taliban's foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, stated that both individuals are receiving medical care, but their son remains skeptical about their treatment. The United Nations has condemned their detention, calling it "inhumane" and warning that without immediate medical attention, they risk "irreparable harm or even death."
The couple has lived in Afghanistan for nearly two decades, previously running educational projects that aimed to empower local women and children. Jonathan expressed frustration at the slow pace of negotiations for their release, emphasizing that week after week, they are met with empty reassurances. He appreciates the engagement from the UK Foreign Office, but remains anxious as the fate of his parents hangs in the balance.
This week marked both their birthdays and their 55th wedding anniversary, further underscoring the emotional toll of their detention. Jonathan pleaded for a swift review of their case, reiterating a collective call for immediate action to secure their release and access to appropriate medical care.
