Zalmay Khalilzad, the former U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, shared on social media that an American woman, who had been in Taliban custody for two months, has been released. Khalilzad mentioned that the woman, named “Fay Hall,” has been freed from Taliban detention and is now under the supervision of Qatari officials. He further stated that she will return to the U.S. soon.
Background of Her Release:
The Taliban has not officially stated the reason for her detention, but reports suggest that she was arrested for using a drone without permission. The incident reportedly occurred after she conducted drone activities in Afghanistan’s airspace without approval, which led to her arrest by the Taliban.
Details About Fay Hall:
According to the Taliban’s Ministry of Interior, Fay Hall is a Chinese-American national who was arrested in February during a visit to the home of a British couple in Bamyan province. She had been in Taliban custody since her arrest.
Qatar’s Role in the Release:
Khalilzad confirmed that Qatar played a vital role in facilitating her release. Qatar has been instrumental in mediating between the U.S. and the Taliban on several occasions, helping secure the release of American hostages. He stated that Qatar has played a key role in helping secure the release of American detainees.
Other American Citizens Released:
Along with Fay Hall, another American citizen, George Glezman, who had been in Taliban custody for two years, was also released. Khalilzad confirmed that the Taliban’s decision to release him was a gesture of goodwill.
The Case of the British Couple:
In addition to Fay Hall, a British couple, Peter Reynolds and Barbie Reynolds, were also detained by the Taliban along with an Afghan interpreter. No official statement has been made regarding their release yet, but the couple’s daughter has expressed concerns about their health.
U.S.-Taliban Relations:
Khalilzad emphasized the importance of continuing negotiations with the Taliban and highlighted the progress made in the prisoner exchange process. He hopes that these exchanges will improve the diplomatic relationship between the U.S. and the Taliban.