A British teacher, Peter Reynolds, 79, has reportedly been denied heart medication while in Taliban custody, raising serious concerns about his health and well-being.

The arrest of Peter and his wife, Barbie Reynolds, 75, took place on February 1, 2025, as they were traveling to their home in Bamyan province.

The couple, who have long been dedicated to improving education in Afghanistan, were detained along with a U.S. companion, Faye Hall, and a translator.

Arrest of the Reynolds Couple and Their Colleague

According to an employee from the couple’s training business, Rebuild, the group was arrested because their flight did not align with local government coordination.

Despite the Taliban finding no wrongdoing on their part, the couple remains imprisoned in Kabul.

This employee expressed concern that Peter Reynolds, who is in need of urgent heart medication, might not survive unless he is granted access to his medicine.

The source stated that Peter’s condition is worsening, and they fear for his life due to the Taliban’s refusal to provide necessary medical treatment.

A Desperate Situation for the Couple

The employee described Peter and Barbie as “the most honorable people” they have ever known.

The couple, who have spent 18 years in Afghanistan running educational programs, were deeply committed to helping the country even after the Taliban regained control in 2021.

However, the employee warned that all Rebuild workers are now in danger, with many having been forced into hiding since the Taliban took over.

Family Pleads for Release of Parents

The Reynolds’ daughter, Sarah Entwistle, expressed deep concern for her parents’ safety in an emotional plea to the Taliban.

She shared with the Sunday Times that her father needs medication following a mini-stroke and emphasized that her parents had only been trying to help the country they loved.

Sarah and her siblings have written an open letter to the Taliban, urging for their parents’ immediate release.

They made it clear that their parents were willing to risk their lives to serve Afghanistan and were adamant that they should not become pawns in ransom negotiations.

The Repressive Taliban Regime and Its Impact on Education

Since the Taliban’s return to power, the regime has severely restricted women’s rights and freedoms, including a ban on girls’ education beyond the age of 12 and restrictions on women’s ability to work.

These measures have led to the targeting of educators and activists, with forced disappearances becoming increasingly common.

Despite this, the Reynolds have continued their educational work in Kabul, including running programs for mothers and children, which have reportedly been approved by local authorities.

Calls for International Attention and Advocacy

The Reynolds family has requested that the UK government refrain from becoming directly involved, as they are keen to keep the issue between the Taliban and their family.

They have insisted that their parents’ dedication to Afghanistan has been unwavering, and they would rather sacrifice their lives than be part of any negotiation or trade.

As the situation unfolds, the international community continues to watch closely, with fears that the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan may continue to worsen under the current regime’s oppressive policies.

The Taliban’s crackdown on women’s rights and education is drawing significant criticism, as reports of gender apartheid and severe restrictions on women’s activities continue to surface.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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