A British couple in their 70s who have lived in Afghanistan for nearly two decades and run education programs have been detained by the Taliban, their family confirmed.
Peter Reynolds, 79, and his wife Barbie, 75, were arrested earlier this month, though the reason for their detention remains unclear, according to their four adult children.
The couple, who were married in Kabul in 1970, have lived in Afghanistan for the past 18 years. They remained in the country even after the Taliban seized power in 2021 following the withdrawal of Western forces.
Peter and Barbie Reynolds run Rebuild, an organization providing education and training programs for businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and non-governmental organizations. The group’s website features images of men and women participating in teacher training and management courses.
Since retaking control of Afghanistan, the Taliban has imposed severe restrictions on women’s rights, banning most female education and employment, making the country one of the most repressive places for women.
In an open letter to the Taliban’s Interior Ministry, the couple’s children emphasized their parents’ commitment to Afghanistan.
“They have always been open about their presence and work, diligently respecting and obeying the laws as they change. They do not represent another religion, and they love Muslims dearly,” the letter, shared with Sky News, read.
The couple, who also hold Afghan citizenship, reportedly messaged their children after their arrests, stating that they did not want Western authorities to intervene.
In the letter, their children acknowledged past cases where foreign detainees were exchanged in negotiations between the Taliban and Western governments but urged that their parents not be used for such purposes.
“Our parents have consistently expressed their commitment to Afghanistan, stating that they would rather sacrifice their lives than become part of ransom negotiations or be traded. We trust that this is not your intention, as we are instructed to respect their wishes to remain with you,” they wrote.
They further added, “They have chosen Afghanistan as their home, rather than living with family in England, and they wish to spend the rest of their lives in Afghanistan.”
The UK Foreign Office declined to comment but is aware of the arrests. The United Kingdom does not recognize the Taliban as Afghanistan’s official government and does not have an embassy in Kabul.
bbc.com
