A British couple in their late 70s, Peter and Barbie Reynolds, who have been detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan since early 2025, are in critical condition, and their son has warned they “may die in prison” if urgent action is not taken.

Who Are Peter and Barbie Reynolds?

Peter, 80, and Barbie, 76, are long-time humanitarian workers who have lived in Afghanistan for nearly two decades. They founded and operated a small nonprofit organization focused on community development, education, and vocational training—especially for women and children in rural areas. Known and respected locally, they chose to remain in the country even after the Taliban returned to power in 2021, believing their work remained valuable and non-political.

Arrest and Detention

In February 2025, the couple was arrested by Taliban authorities while traveling in Bamyan province. They were reportedly aboard a small privately chartered flight and were accompanied by a Chinese-American colleague and their Afghan translator. The Taliban accused them of having irregular travel documents, though the exact charges remain unclear.

Since their arrest, the couple has been held without formal charges or a clear explanation. They were initially detained in Pul-e-Charkhi, Kabul’s notorious high-security prison, before being moved to an underground facility run by the Taliban’s intelligence services. Conditions have been described as extremely harsh, with no access to natural light, proper beds, or adequate medical care.

Health Deterioration

Their family reports that both Peter and Barbie are in severely declining health. Peter, who had a history of heart issues and had suffered a mild stroke in 2023, has reportedly experienced symptoms of a heart attack or stroke again while in custody. He also suffers from infections and digestive problems due to poor nutrition and lack of medical treatment.

Barbie is said to be suffering from anemia, fatigue, and numbness in her legs. According to family accounts, she has become increasingly frail and disoriented during her detention. With no access to doctors or appropriate medication, her condition is worsening rapidly.

Family’s Plea

Their children, based in the UK and United States, have issued a series of emotional appeals to the Taliban leadership, as well as to the British and American governments, urging them to intervene. Their son has spoken publicly about the urgency of the situation, warning that if immediate medical assistance and humanitarian intervention are not provided, his parents “may die in prison.”

He added that the couple has not been told what crimes they are accused of and that multiple scheduled court hearings have been abruptly canceled or delayed. The family is growing increasingly concerned that the legal process is being manipulated or stalled, further endangering their lives.

Calls for International Help

International human rights advocates and United Nations officials have echoed the family’s concerns. Some experts have warned that the couple’s detention without charge or trial, coupled with denial of medical care, could constitute a violation of international human rights law.

The UK government has stated that it is aware of the case and providing consular support, though its ability to act is limited due to the lack of formal diplomatic relations with the Taliban regime. Meanwhile, rights groups are urging the international community to press for the couple’s immediate release on humanitarian grounds.

Humanitarian vs Political Conflict

What makes this case particularly tragic is the couple’s long-standing dedication to helping Afghan communities, including under Taliban rule. Just months before their arrest, they had received local recognition from Taliban officials for their work in education and public health.

Now, they face the very real threat of dying in captivity despite having dedicated years of their lives to serving the people of Afghanistan. Their children and supporters around the world continue to plead for compassion and swift action before time runs out.

Conclusion

Peter and Barbie Reynolds’ case highlights the growing risks faced by foreign humanitarian workers in politically unstable regions. As their health continues to decline in harsh prison conditions, their family fears the worst. With no formal charges, no medical care, and no resolution in sight, the call for international attention and urgent action grows louder each day.