U.S. Citizen George Glezmann Freed After Over Two Years in Taliban Custody

The 66-year-old airline mechanic’s release, facilitated by Qatar, was achieved without a prisoner exchange and described as a goodwill gesture by the Taliban.

George Glezmann, detained by the Taliban in December 2022 while traveling in Afghanistan as a tourist, has been released after more than two years in captivity.
The release was brokered through negotiations led by U.S. hostage envoy Adam Boehler and Qatari mediators, highlighting Qatar’s pivotal diplomatic role.
The Taliban characterized the release as a goodwill gesture, with no prisoners exchanged, signaling potential efforts to improve relations with the United States.
Glezmann endured harsh detention conditions, including solitary confinement and severe health deterioration, requiring immediate medical attention upon his return.
He is the third American released by the Taliban in 2025, following a January prisoner exchange involving two other U.S. citizens.