Doha, Qatar (May 21, 2024): In a significant development, Taliban and U.S. envoys convened on the sidelines of the third United Nations-led Doha meeting to discuss the release of two American prisoners held in Afghanistan. Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban spokesperson, confirmed the talks, emphasising that Afghanistan expects its own conditions to be met for any potential prisoner exchange.

Focus on Prisoner Exchange and Counterterrorism Efforts

The discussions primarily centered on the fate of two U.S. citizens imprisoned in Afghanistan. Mujahid highlighted the Taliban’s demand for the release of Afghan detainees held in Guantanamo Bay and the U.S. as a prerequisite for any prisoner swap. While U.S. Special Representative Thomas West and Special Envoy Rina Amiri pressed for the unconditional release of the American detainees, State Department Spokesperson Vedant Patel acknowledged that the issue was only recently raised and progress remains uncertain.

One of the imprisoned Americans, Ryan Corbett, was abducted in August 2022 while working on a business venture in Afghanistan. He has since been held in various prisons, with his whereabouts unknown since December. The other American’s identity remains undisclosed.

Taliban Participation and UN’s Stance on Recognition

This meeting marked the first time Taliban representatives attended a UN-sponsored event in Doha. The gathering aimed to enhance engagement with Afghanistan, but a UN official clarified that it did not signify recognition of the Taliban government. Envoys from various countries participated, and the Taliban used the opportunity for sideline meetings to convey their messages.

Afghan Concerns and International Cooperation

Mujahid emphasised Afghanistan’s need for cooperation in the private sector and the fight against narcotics. He reported positive responses from several countries regarding potential collaboration in these areas. The Taliban’s participation in the Doha meeting reflects their desire for increased international engagement despite the ongoing lack of formal recognition and concerns over their human rights record, particularly regarding women’s rights.

Future Outlook

While the discussions in Doha highlight potential avenues for progress, the path to releasing the American prisoners and achieving broader engagement with the Taliban remains complex. The situation underscores the delicate balance between diplomatic efforts and concerns over human rights, security, and the Taliban’s governance in Afghanistan.