The Taliban have released American citizen George Glezmann, who had been detained in Afghanistan for more than two years. The move, announced Thursday, follows a rare meeting between U.S. representatives and Taliban officials in Kabul, signaling a possible shift toward more direct engagement between the two sides.
A “Gesture of Goodwill” Toward Washington
Glezmann, a former aircraft mechanic, was taken into custody in December 2022 while visiting Kabul as a tourist. His release was described by Taliban officials as a “gesture of goodwill toward the American president and people,” according to the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In a message posted to social media, the ministry emphasized the Taliban’s desire to engage with the international community, particularly the United States, on the basis of mutual respect and interests.
American Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed Glezmann’s release in a statement, expressing gratitude to Qatar for its mediation. "George is on his way home to his wife Aleksandra," Rubio said.
Qatar’s Key Role in Mediation
A Qatari source close to the matter told AFP that Glezmann would transit through Qatar before returning to the U.S. He is being accompanied by Adam Boehler, Washington’s special envoy for detainee affairs. Boehler was part of the delegation that met with Afghan officials in Kabul, alongside former U.S. envoy Zalmay Khalilzad.
“Today is a great day,” Khalilzad posted on X. “The Taliban government agreed to release [Glezmann] as a sign of goodwill toward the U.S. president and the American people.”
Implications for U.S.-Taliban Dialogue
Though the Taliban regime remains largely unrecognized by the international community, Glezmann’s release could signal a willingness to resume cautious diplomatic engagement. The move may also serve to build trust between the Taliban and Washington amid ongoing concerns over human rights and security in Afghanistan.
As reported by HotNews.ro, the release reflects the Taliban’s stated intention to develop relationships based on dialogue and reciprocity.
