WASHINGTON – The Trump administration has achieved the release of another American citizen held captive in Afghanistan, marking the fifth such incident this year.
Amir Amiri, who has been in Afghanistan since December, was freed by the Taliban over the weekend. This release was facilitated by Qatari diplomats who engaged in negotiations, as confirmed by officials.
As of Sunday afternoon, Amiri was reportedly on his way back to the U.S., according to a source familiar with the situation.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed gratitude towards Qatar, highlighting their strong diplomatic ties and efforts that were crucial for securing Amiri’s release. He noted, “This represents significant progress, but there are still other Americans who remain unjustly detained in Afghanistan. President Trump is committed to bringing all of our citizens home.”
Details about Amiri’s situation or the charges against him are unclear. His release follows earlier ones, including businessmen Ryan Corbett and William McEnti in January, George Grezman, who was visiting for a “cultural” trip, and Faye Hall, who was released in March after running a drone without prior authorization.
Qatar, which has historically mediated various conflicts in the Middle East, had arranged a meeting between Amiri and the U.S. Special Envoy during a visit in March. The conditions under which concessions might be made to the Taliban for Amiri’s release remain ambiguous. Negotiations reportedly took months before reaching a successful resolution over the weekend.
Additionally, Doha is working to mediate the ongoing war in Gaza and the release of Israelis captured by Hamas. The wealthy nation is also attempting to play a role in other tensions, such as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as well as issues in Venezuela and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Since the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, Qatar has been urging them to maintain diplomatic relations and keep humanitarian routes open.
Qatar is also advocating for improved rights for women under Taliban rule, particularly regarding education and employment opportunities. Meanwhile, Trump has been vocal about the idea of regaining control of Bagram Air Force Base, which was abandoned during the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.
