A British couple, Peter and Barbara Reynolds, have been released from Taliban custody in Afghanistan after eight months of imprisonment. The couple, detained by the Taliban Ministry of Interior in February of this year, were freed following successful mediation by Qatar and immediately transferred to Doha.

According to Abdul Qahar Balkhi, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Peter and Barbara Reynolds were released on Friday following legal proceedings. Balkhi stated that the couple had violated Afghan laws, adding that “the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan does not view citizens’ issues from a political or transactional perspective.” He emphasized that the issue should not be politicized and thanked Qatar for its efforts.

A Taliban Ministry of Interior spokesperson previously stated that four individuals were arrested in February, including the British couple, a Chinese-American citizen, and their local translator.

A BBC report indicates the couple worked for a non-governmental organization in the central Afghan province of Bamyan. A Taliban source told the BBC they were arrested for using an aircraft without permission.

Sources reveal that Qatar negotiated with Taliban officials for several months, collaborating with the British government and the couple’s family to secure their release. The Qatari embassy reportedly provided significant support during their imprisonment, including access to personal medical care, medication, and contact with their family. Reports suggest they were often held separately.

According to the Sunday Times, the British couple worked on various projects in schools and educational institutions in Afghanistan for 18 years, remaining in the country even after the Taliban takeover in 2021.

It’s noteworthy that Qatar has played a key role in securing the release of foreign nationals detained in Afghanistan since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. In 2023 alone, Qatar has assisted in the release of at least three American citizens.