US Senate Leaders Calls For Release of American Citizen From Taliban’s Detention

Chuck Schumer, the Majority Leader of the US Senate, and Mitch McConnell, the Minority Leader, called for the release of Ryan Corbett, an American citizen, from Taliban’s custody.

They presented a resolution for Corbett's immediate release to the Senate for approval.

Corbett was detained by the Taliban in August 2022, along with his German and Afghan colleagues in northern Afghanistan.

While the exact reason for their detention remains unclear, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid had previously stated, without elaborating, that their detention was due to "violations of Afghan laws”.

Michael McCaul, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, also had denounced the detention of American citizens by the Taliban as a "crime".

The Taliban has rejected United State’s request for Corbett's release. The group says that forty foreign citizens are still detained in Afghanistan.

Corbett's wife has repeatedly warned about the severity of Corbett’s health condition. According to her, he is being held in appalling conditions in an underground cell with no regular access to a bathroom, sunlight, or medical care.

In statement on Monday, Schumer stated that Corbett is being held in horrific conditions and his health is rapidly deteriorating.

He further mentioned that Corbett had traveled to Afghanistan for visa extensions and to provide stipends to the employees of his non-profit organisation. However, the Taliban detained him without providing any explanation for his detention.

The Senate Majority Leader said that he is in contact with the White House, the State Department, and other senior officials to secure Corbett's release.