The son of Peter and Barbie Reynolds, a British couple detained by the Taliban for the past five months, has expressed grave concerns regarding their deteriorating health, warning they may die in prison. The couple was arrested on February 1 while returning to their home in Bamiyan province, Afghanistan, and their son, Jonathan, fears for their lives as their condition worsens.
The UN has raised alarms, stating that the couple’s living conditions are degrading and could lead to death without immediate medical assistance. Jonathan Reynolds claimed that his 80-year-old father is suffering from severe convulsions, while his 76-year-old mother is facing severe anaemia and malnutrition. Reports indicate that they have been held in harsh conditions akin to maximum security prisons despite being deemed innocent.
“My dad was chained to murderers and criminals,” Jonathan shared, revealing the traumatic circumstances under which they have been kept. During a recent communication, the couple disclosed the extent of their declining health. Jonathan described his father experiencing tremors and convulsions, while his mother suffers from noticeable symptoms of anaemia.
He remains uncertain about their location and the ongoing demands for their release, despite being repeatedly told to wait for their freedom. Despite the grim reality, Jonathan expressed gratitude for communication from the UK’s Foreign Office regarding his parents’ situation, although hope for their release seems bleak.
As they mark significant personal milestones, including their 55th wedding anniversary in detention, Jonathan reiterated the inhumane conditions under which they are living. The UN reiterated its call for their immediate transfer to a civilian hospital, labeling their continued detention as unnecessary and harsh given their vulnerable state.
Both Peter and Barbie have been contributing to educational projects in Afghanistan for decades, despite facing challenges from the Taliban regime. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has reportedly faced limitations in providing support since the closure of its embassy in Kabul following the Taliban's resurgence in power.
Amidst these developments, the Taliban has indicated a willingness to release the couple, but the timeline remains vague. As this situation continues to unfold, the call for urgent action and medical care grows increasingly critical.
The UN has raised alarms, stating that the couple’s living conditions are degrading and could lead to death without immediate medical assistance. Jonathan Reynolds claimed that his 80-year-old father is suffering from severe convulsions, while his 76-year-old mother is facing severe anaemia and malnutrition. Reports indicate that they have been held in harsh conditions akin to maximum security prisons despite being deemed innocent.
“My dad was chained to murderers and criminals,” Jonathan shared, revealing the traumatic circumstances under which they have been kept. During a recent communication, the couple disclosed the extent of their declining health. Jonathan described his father experiencing tremors and convulsions, while his mother suffers from noticeable symptoms of anaemia.
He remains uncertain about their location and the ongoing demands for their release, despite being repeatedly told to wait for their freedom. Despite the grim reality, Jonathan expressed gratitude for communication from the UK’s Foreign Office regarding his parents’ situation, although hope for their release seems bleak.
As they mark significant personal milestones, including their 55th wedding anniversary in detention, Jonathan reiterated the inhumane conditions under which they are living. The UN reiterated its call for their immediate transfer to a civilian hospital, labeling their continued detention as unnecessary and harsh given their vulnerable state.
Both Peter and Barbie have been contributing to educational projects in Afghanistan for decades, despite facing challenges from the Taliban regime. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has reportedly faced limitations in providing support since the closure of its embassy in Kabul following the Taliban's resurgence in power.
Amidst these developments, the Taliban has indicated a willingness to release the couple, but the timeline remains vague. As this situation continues to unfold, the call for urgent action and medical care grows increasingly critical.
