British Couple’s Fate in Taliban Hands Nears Resolution

In a rare update on a case that has gripped international attention, Taliban authorities announced Tuesday that the fate of Peter and Barbie Reynolds, a British couple detained in Afghanistan since early February, will soon be decided under Islamic law.

The elderly pair, both in their 70s, have been held in Kabul’s notorious Pul-e-Charkhi prison for over two months, accused of an unspecified “small matter” that officials insist “should not be a cause for concern.”

Interior Ministry spokesperson Abdul Mateen Qani offered little clarity on the charges, stating only that the case has moved from the ministry to the courts.

“Their problem (crime) is not that big. God willing, their problem will soon be resolved and a shariah decision will be made,” Qani told The Associated Press.

For the Reynolds family, however, the lack of transparency has fueled anguish.

Peter, 79, and Barbie, 75, who have lived in Afghanistan for 18 years running Rebuild — an organization providing education and training — were arrested alongside American Faye Hall and a local translator.

Hall was released on March 30 following Qatari mediation, but the British couple remains behind bars.

Reports from family members paint a grim picture of their conditions.

Peter, shackled to violent offenders, described his cellmates in a recording obtained by the Daily Express: “There is a guy here who killed his wife and three children, shouting away, a demon-possessed man.”

Barbie, held separately, faces additional hardships, with women in the prison reportedly fed just once a day and forced to pay for food.

The couple’s children, including daughter Sarah Entwistle, have pleaded for their release and even called for a boycott of England’s cricket match against Afghanistan in February to pressure the Taliban.

While the Taliban downplay the situation, the UK and US governments are reportedly engaged in behind-the-scenes efforts.

For now, the Reynolds family waits, pinning fragile hope on a swift shariah ruling to bring their loved ones home.