The Trump administration reportedly announced on Thursday the successful release of George Glezmann, a 66-year-old U.S. citizen who had been held captive by the Taliban since December 5, 2022.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Glezmann, a Delta Airlines mechanic from Atlanta, is now en route to reunite with his wife, Aleksandra, after spending two and a half years in captivity.
During his visit to Kabul as a tourist, Glezmann was detained by the Taliban without any charges or legal explanation. His imprisonment occurred while he pursued his dream of visiting every country in the world, having already explored over 100 nations.
Unfortunately, Glezmann experienced limited communication with his family during his detention, and his health significantly deteriorated, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Rubio highlighted the crucial role of Qatar in negotiating Glezmann’s release, taking place nearly a year and a half after the controversial U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan under President Joe Biden.
He characterized Glezmann’s release as a positive achievement but reminded the public that other Americans remain unjustly detained in Afghanistan.
Rubio emphasized President Trump’s dedication to advocating for the freedom of all U.S. citizens held abroad.
Former U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, noted that the Taliban’s decision to release Glezmann was made as a “goodwill gesture” towards both Trump and the American public.
Khalilzad expressed his honor in assisting with this significant effort, reaffirming the importance of prioritizing the release of Americans held internationally.
This development underscores ongoing concerns about American citizens’ safety and the complexities of international diplomacy involving hostile regimes.
[READ MORE: Trump To Order Closure Of Department Of Education]
