Elderly British Couple Peter and Barbie Reynolds Freed After Detention in Afghanistan

Friday, September 19, 2025 – An elderly British couple, Peter Reynolds, 80, and his wife Barbie Reynolds, 76, who were detained by the Taliban earlier this year, have finally been released.

Detained by the Taliban in February

The couple were first detained by the Taliban’s interior ministry on February 1. In March, they were moved to a maximum-security prison in Kabul. Their family and supporters had been appealing for their release for months.

Released After Qatari Mediation

On Friday, the couple were safely freed and flown to Doha, Qatar, after negotiations led by Qatari officials. Last month, Peter Reynolds had been visited by Qatari diplomats while in detention, signaling progress in talks.

Who Are Peter and Barbie Reynolds?

The Reynolds have lived in Afghanistan for 18 years. They run an organisation called Rebuild, which provides education and training programmes. The couple first met in the 1960s and married in Kabul in 1970.

Their son Jonathan told Sky News earlier this year that his parents had “never heard one accusation or one charge” during their detention.

Why Did They Stay in Afghanistan?

When the Taliban took power in 2021, the British government offered to evacuate them. But the couple refused to leave. They told officials: “Why would we leave these people in their darkest hour?”

Returning Home After Ordeal

The couple are now on their way home to the UK. Their family is preparing for an emotional reunion after more than seven months apart.

This story is still developing, and more details are expected soon.