The son of an elderly British couple held in Taliban custody in Afghanistan has issued a stark warning, saying his parents may not survive unless urgent medical care is provided.

Peter Reynolds, 80, and his wife Barbie, 76, were detained on 1 February 2025 while returning to their home in Bamiyan province, central Afghanistan, where they had lived for nearly two decades.

According to their son, Jonathan Reynolds, the couple’s health has deteriorated rapidly since their detention. He fears that both could face life-threatening consequences if they remain imprisoned under current conditions.

Detained Without Charges, Health Declining

The reasons for their arrest remain unclear. A Taliban official initially indicated that the couple would be released “as soon as possible,” but nearly six months later, they remain behind bars—despite a judge reportedly deeming them innocent and no formal charges being filed.

Jonathan Reynolds shared that his parents have been held under harsh conditions, including time in maximum-security facilities, prolonged isolation, and a six-week period without access to sunlight. He described the experience as “harrowing and surreal.”

“My dad was chained next to convicted murderers,” he told BBC Radio 4.
“They’ve spent months in detention despite no formal accusations. It’s heartbreaking.”

Medical Concerns Raise Alarm

The couple’s declining health has sparked grave concern. Peter Reynolds, who has a history of minor heart attacks, now shows signs resembling early Parkinson’s disease, including severe tremors on the right side of his body. According to Jonathan, his father suffered a half-hour-long convulsion on a prison floor before being moved to a thin mattress pad.

Barbie Reynolds is reportedly suffering from anaemia and malnutrition, with visible symptoms such as blue hands and feet—a possible sign of inadequate circulation due to poor diet and health conditions.

“They’re not receiving the basic healthcare they need,” Jonathan said.
“They’ve both celebrated birthdays and even their 55th wedding anniversary behind bars. I’m thankful they’re together—but they are far from free.”

Calls for Immediate Medical Intervention

The United Nations Human Rights Office released a statement this week, warning that the couple is in immediate danger if they are not moved to a medical facility.

“Without access to adequate medical care, they are at risk of irreparable harm or even death,” the statement read.
“It is inhumane to keep them locked up in such degrading conditions—especially given their fragile health and advanced age.”

The UN has called for the couple to be transferred to a civilian hospital and has formally requested a review of the legal grounds for their continued detention. The organization has raised the issue with both the Taliban and UK authorities.

A History of Service in Afghanistan

Peter and Barbie Reynolds have spent 18 years in Afghanistan, where they became Afghan citizens and led education-focused projects—some involving the training of women and children. According to their son, these initiatives had previously been approved by local authorities.

Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, education for girls over 12 has been largely banned, and most women have been excluded from public roles. The couple’s past work may have come under renewed scrutiny in this changed political environment.

Diplomatic Limitations and Communication Gaps

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has maintained contact with the family but says its ability to intervene is limited. The UK closed its embassy in Kabul following the Taliban takeover and continues to advise against all travel to Afghanistan.

Jonathan Reynolds has expressed frustration over the slow progress.

“Every week, we’re told: ‘Just wait a few more days.’ But week after week, nothing changes,” he said.
“We don’t even know where exactly they’re being held. The uncertainty is unbearable.”

Despite his concerns, he acknowledged the FCDO’s efforts in keeping the family informed, adding, “They’ve been in touch, and for that, we’re grateful.”

Taliban Statement and Future Uncertainty

Earlier this year, Taliban spokesperson Abdul Mateen Qani stated that the couple’s case was under review and that efforts were underway to facilitate their release.

“A series of considerations is being taken into account,” he said.
“After evaluation, we will endeavour to release them as soon as possible.”

However, no concrete developments have been announced since then, and the couple remains in detention as of July 2025.

A Family’s Plea for Help

As the situation grows more critical, Jonathan Reynolds continues to call for urgent international action.

“This isn’t just about two elderly people in poor health,” he said.
“It’s about basic human rights. They’ve done nothing wrong, and yet they’re trapped in a system that could cost them their lives.”

The story of Peter and Barbie Reynolds highlights the growing dangers faced by foreign nationals in Afghanistan and the complex challenges of diplomacy and humanitarian aid in a politically isolated state.

The FCDO has been approached for comment, and pressure is mounting for a resolution that ensures the couple’s safe and immediate release.