A British couple aged 70s have been arrested by the Taliban during their travels in Afghanistan, sparking international concerns about their wellbeing. Peter Reynolds, 79, and his wife, Barbie, 75, were detained on February 1, 2025, as they made their way to Bamyan province. They were accompanied by their American friend Faye Hall and their translator, and according to representatives from their training business, the group was informed their flight "did not co-ordinate with the local government." This situation highlights the growing issue of foreign nationals being taken hostage by the Taliban as leverage following the cutoff of US financial aid.
Peter and Barbie Reynolds had lived and worked in Afghanistan for the past 18 years, running school training programs and remaining committed to the country even after the Taliban regained control. An employee of their organization, Rebuild, expressed grave concern for Peter's health, stating he has been denied his necessary heart medication, and described the couple as "the most honourable people I have ever met." The employee lamented, "The Taliban found no wrongdoing by Peter or the Rebuild organisation, yet they imprisoned them without any crime or guilt." With Peter's health deterioring, there are fears for his life without medical care.
Rebuild, the couple's training organization, has faced serious threats since the Taliban's return to power. Employees have been displaced, living under constant fear. Family members of the Reynolds, particularly their daughter Sarah Entwistle, have spoken out about their parents' dire situation. “My mother is 75 and my father almost 80 and needs his heart medication after a mini-stroke,” she told the Sunday Times. “They were just trying to help the country they loved.”
Although there hasn't been much response from the UK government as the family wishes to keep the government out of their situation, the Reynolds' children have written to the Taliban pleading for their parents' release. They asserted, “Our parents have consistently expressed their commitment to Afghanistan, stating they would rather sacrifice their lives than become part of ransom negotiations or be traded.” This statement reflects the Reynolds' long-standing dedication to the Afghan people and education.
Since the Taliban tightened their grip on Afghanistan, they have instituted harsh restrictions, including banning women from working and curtailing educational opportunities for girls over 12. With growing global attention on incidents like this, the situation raises questions about the safety and treatment of foreigners and Afghans alike under the current regime.
Peter and Barbie's story is just one of many illustrating the complex and dangerous reality for those who have chosen to stay and work within Afghanistan, particularly those advocating for education and women’s rights. Family members remain hopeful for their safety, but the risks continue to escalate, highlighting the urgent need for international attention and action.
With their family's unwavering requests for the Taliban to treat them with respect and compassion—a plea echoed throughout their years of work—there is significant concern for the couple’s well-being, demonstrating how foreign lives are entangled with geopolitical ties.”