KABUL – In a significant diplomatic move, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) announced on Thursday the release of an American citizen, marking a positive step in its ongoing dialogue with the United States.
The release was confirmed during a meeting in Kabul between the Afghan Foreign Minister, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi, and a visiting U.S. delegation led by Mr. Adam Boehler, the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs.
Foreign Minister Muttaqi stated that the American national, identified as Amir Amiri, had been freed earlier in the day. He emphasized that the decision demonstrates the Afghan government’s policy of not viewing issues concerning foreign nationals through a political lens.
“Diplomacy provides pathways for resolving such matters,” Muttaqi reiterated, calling the release a “positive step forward.” He also extended gratitude to the State of Qatar for its “effective role” in facilitating prisoner exchanges between the IEA and the United States.
The American envoy, Adam Boehler, welcomed the Taliban government’s decision, describing it as “a good moment.” He reflected on the previous round of discussions between the two sides as “constructive” and expressed optimism for continued dialogue to address remaining issues.
This development signals a potential thaw in the complex relationship between the two parties and highlights the continued use of third-party mediation, notably by Qatar, in managing bilateral concerns. The release is expected to pave the way for further diplomatic engagement on other outstanding matters.
