Rubio demands answers with 2 more Americans said to be held by Taliban
President Joe Biden’s last-minute negotiations with the Taliban resulted in the release of U.S. citizens Ryan Corbett and William Wallace McKenty, but left behind George Glezmann and Mahmood Habibi. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed concern about additional American detainees held by the Taliban, calling for action to secure their release.
Dennis Fitzpatrick, coordinating efforts for Glezmann’s release, criticized the Biden administration for neglecting Glezmann’s case. Glezmann, a former airline mechanic, has been detained since December 2022, suffering from deteriorating health conditions. The Taliban acknowledge holding Glezmann but deny having Habibi in custody.
Ahmad Habibi, Mahmood’s brother, refuted the Taliban’s claims and accused the U.S. government of withholding evidence of Habibi’s whereabouts. Despite the family’s efforts, there has been little progress in securing Habibi’s release. The Taliban’s demands for the release of Guantanamo Bay detainee Muhammad Rahim further complicate the situation.
Former hostage affairs envoy Hugh Dugan suggested multiple approaches, including military rescue or diplomatic negotiations, to secure the Americans’ release. However, the challenges persist, and the families continue to advocate for their loved ones’ safe return.
As the fate of Glezmann and Habibi remains uncertain, the urgency to resolve their detainment grows. The ongoing efforts to secure their release underscore the complexities of dealing with the Taliban and the importance of diplomatic strategies in such delicate situations.
