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KABUL – Afghan authorities have released US citizen Amir Amiri, who had been detained since December last year, the US government confirmed Sunday. His release follows a visit by Washington’s hostage envoy, Adam Boehler, and came through Qatari mediation. Mr. Amiri was reportedly on his way to Doha Sunday evening.
This marks one of several US citizen releases this year, facilitated by Qatar, including a British couple held for eight months. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio thanked Qatar for its role, emphasizing that Washington is committed to securing the return of all Americans unjustly detained abroad.
Amir’s release offers hope to families like that of Mahmood Habibi, an Afghan-American contractor still missing for over three years. Ahmad Habibi, Mahmood’s brother, expressed gratitude for Amir’s freedom while holding onto hope for his own family’s reunion.
The exact reasons behind Afghan authorities’ decision to release Mr. Amiri remain unclear, though it comes amid heightened pressure from US officials, including former President Donald Trump’s recent calls to regain control of Bagram Airbase.
