President Biden reassured families of detained Americans in Afghanistan about ongoing efforts to secure their release
Washington: President Joe Biden had a heartfelt chat with the families of three Americans stuck in Afghanistan since 2022. The White House shared that he’s committed to bringing them home.
Since July, Biden’s team has been in talks with the Taliban about a possible swap. They’re looking to exchange the three Americans—Ryan Corbett, George Glezmann, and Mahmood Habibi—for Muhammad Rahim al-Afghani, a high-profile prisoner in Guantanamo Bay.
Efforts to get the Americans released are still ongoing. Ahmad Habibi, Mahmood’s brother, was on the call and appreciated Biden’s clear stance. He mentioned that Biden promised not to trade Rahim unless the Taliban releases his brother.
The Taliban claims they don’t have Habibi but suggested a different deal involving Glezmann and Corbett. Biden has successfully brought home over 75 Americans unjustly detained worldwide, including from places like Myanmar and China.
His administration has also worked to secure the release of all Americans held in Afghanistan before the military pullout. Biden and his team are dedicated to negotiating for the release of hostages and will keep pushing for it throughout his term.
In a related note, a Senate report labeled Rahim as an “al Qaeda facilitator,” detailing his capture and harsh treatment in a CIA black site before being sent to Guantanamo Bay.
Recently, Biden sent 11 detainees from Guantanamo to Oman, cutting the number of prisoners there nearly in half as part of his plan to close the facility before leaving office.
