The United States has designated Afghanistan as a “State Sponsor of Wrongful Detention,” accusing the ruling Taliban of kidnapping and detaining foreign nationals for ransom or policy concessions.
In a press statement, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio alleged that the Taliban continues to use what he described as terrorist-style tactics, including kidnapping individuals for ransom or to seek policy concessions. He said such practices are unacceptable and must end.
Rubio stated that these actions have made it unsafe for Americans to travel to Afghanistan, as the Taliban continues to unjustly detain Americans and other foreign nationals. He called on the Taliban to immediately release U.S. citizens currently being held.
The U.S. government specifically urged the release of Dennis Coyle and Mahmoud Habibi, along with all other Americans who are allegedly being unjustly detained in the country.
“The Taliban needs to release Dennis Coyle, Mahmoud Habibi, and all Americans unjustly detained in Afghanistan now and commit to ceasing the practice of hostage diplomacy forever,” Rubio said.