- Peter and Barbie Reynolds, British nationals in their 70s, have been detained by the Taliban since February 1.
- The couple ran a non-profit educational organization, Rebuild, in Afghanistan for nearly two decades.
- Taliban authorities allege they possessed books “against Islam” and taught women and children.
- They are being held without formal charges in Kabul’s Pul-e-Charkhi prison under harsh conditions.
- Their family and human rights groups are urging immediate release due to declining health.
Peter (79) and Barbie Reynolds (75) are a British couple who spent 18 years in Afghanistan. They founded Rebuild, an Afghan non-profit, in 2009, focusing on education and training programs.
Rebuild trained local businesses, NGOs, and government offices. Their most recent project taught English to mothers and children in Bamiyan, a program that local authorities approved.
On February 1, 2025, Taliban officials stopped the couple while they returned home. They arrested the couple along with their Chinese-American friend, Faye Hall, and Afghan interpreter, Jaya.
The authorities transferred the couple to Pul-e-Charkhi, a notorious prison in Kabul. Neither has faced formal charges. They remain in custody while the Taliban continues their “investigation.”
Why Were They Arrested?
Peter Reynolds and his wife are accused of having 59 books “against Islam” in their Bamiyan home. The Taliban claims they found these books, but Reynolds firmly insists that these accusations are false.
Reynolds even asked the authorities to show which parts of the books were against Islam. However, no one could point to anything specific, as he told The Guardian. This raises serious doubts about the legitimacy of the allegations.
Moreover, unconfirmed reports suggest the couple might be questioned for teaching Afghan women and children. Since the Taliban restricts such activities, this could explain part of their imprisonment and the harsh treatment they’re facing.
Peter describes the prison conditions as “hellish.” He’s shackled, surrounded by violent criminals, and only receives one meal a day. Meanwhile, Barbie, held in the women’s section, has started teaching English to fellow female prisoners despite the dire circumstances.
Family’s Appeal and Lack of Diplomatic Channels
The couple’s children are publicly calling for their parents’ immediate release. However, the UK government has limited options due to its lack of formal diplomatic relations with the Taliban government.
The British Foreign Office has acknowledged the situation but declined to make detailed comments, citing “ongoing efforts to secure their safety.”
International Response
International human rights organizations are raising alarms. They say this is another example of the Taliban’s repression against educators and aid workers. The case also sparks debates about education freedom and foreign worker safety in Afghanistan.
The detention of Peter and Barbie Reynolds shows the increasing risks for foreign humanitarian workers under the Taliban. Without formal charges, limited legal access, and worsening health conditions, the couple’s situation is urgent. Their family and supporters hope for international pressure to secure their release soon.