American Hostage Freed After Nine Months in Taliban Custody

Tue Oct 21 2025 03:54:42 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Amir Amiry, a U.S. citizen, has been released from Taliban detention after lengthy negotiations by Qatari mediators. This marks a significant victory for diplomatic efforts.

Amir Amiry, held captive by the Taliban for nine months, is now free thanks to negotiations facilitated by Qatar. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed his release, highlighting ongoing efforts to secure the freedom of other American detainees in Afghanistan.

A US citizen held by the Taliban in Afghanistan for nine months has been released following negotiations led by Qatari mediators, officials say.

The man, identified as Amir Amiry, is the fifth American to be freed from detention in Afghanistan this year. He was on his way back to the US on Sunday.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio thanked Qatar for its 'tireless diplomatic efforts', which he said were crucial in securing Mr Amiry's release.

The reason for Mr Amiry's detention remains unclear. Rubio stated that he had been 'wrongfully detained'.

The secretary noted that more US citizens remain 'unjustly detained' in Afghanistan and that the Trump administration was working on securing their release.

Qatar's foreign ministry confirmed its role in facilitating Mr Amiry's release, stating he was bound for Doha before returning to the US.

Qatar began negotiations for Mr Amiry's release in March, initially arranging a meeting between him and US hostage envoy Adam Boehler, according to sources. A breakthrough occurred this weekend that led to his release.

This development follows the release of two American citizens in a prisoner swap earlier this year, amidst ongoing efforts for others still held captive.