George Glezmann, an American man abducted in Afghanistan over two years ago, was released by the Taliban thanks to negotiations mediated by Qatar. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed his return to the U.S. to be reunited with his wife, while highlighting the need to address other Americans still detained by the Taliban.
An American citizen, George Glezmann, who was abducted while traveling in Afghanistan over two years ago, has been released by the Taliban. This release was facilitated through negotiations involving Qatari diplomats and the Trump administration’s representatives. The U.S. State Department confirmed his release on March 20, 2025, following his detention by the Taliban’s intelligence services in December 2022, which led to his classification as wrongfully detained in 2023.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Glezmann was en route to rejoin his wife, praising Qatar’s crucial diplomatic efforts that facilitated this outcome. He remarked, “George’s release is a positive and constructive step,” highlighting that it also serves as a reminder of other Americans still held in Afghanistan. Rubio affirmed President Trump’s ongoing commitment to securing the release of all unjustly detained Americans globally.
Glezmann, an airline mechanic aged in his mid-60s, is among the three American detainees released since January. Adam Boehler, a key figure in addressing hostage situations for President Trump, accompanied Glezmann back to the U.S. via Doha, Qatar. The Taliban regards Glezmann’s release as part of an effort to normalize relations with the U.S. following the tumultuous withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.
The release follows a previous arrangement in January, conducted before President Biden took office, which successfully secured the release of two U.S. citizens in exchange for a Taliban prisoner. However, in Glezmann’s case, the U.S. did not concede any detainees as part of the negotiations, indicating it was a goodwill gesture from the Taliban. The Taliban’s Foreign Ministry confirmed Glezmann’s release, stating it was on “humanitarian grounds.” They reiterated that discussions and diplomacy are vital for resolving issues.
President Biden had previously considered a different strategy for Glezmann’s release, involving potential exchanges for detained individuals at Guantanamo Bay. However, he decided against this plan, prompting families of others still detained, such as Afghan-American businessman Mahmood Habibi, to express concerns about their loved ones’ fates. Ahmad Habibi, Mahmood’s brother, stated confidence that the Trump Administration would advocate for his brother’s release while confirming there is evidence suggesting Mahmood is being held by the Taliban.
In summary, George Glezmann’s release marks a significant development in U.S.-Taliban relations, showcasing ongoing negotiations and a commitment to resolving hostage situations. While there is a sense of progress, it also underscores the continuing plight of other detained Americans, emphasizing the need for sustained diplomatic efforts. The situation of Mahmood Habibi remains a critical concern for many, urging the U.S. to remain engaged in dialogue with the Taliban.
Original Source: apnews.com
