British Couple Freed from Taliban Detention Returns Home to Son's Joy

Son of British Couple Held by Taliban 'Ecstatic' as They Return to UK LONDON - The son of a British couple detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan for nearly eight months expressed his "ecstasy" and gratitude upon learning of their release, as they prepared to return home on Saturday. Jonathan Reynolds, 42, told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that he was "overwhelmed" by the news of his parents' freedom. His father, Peter Reynolds, 80, and mother, Barbie, 76, had been held captive since February 1 after being detained by the Taliban on their way home from Afghanistan. "We are looking forward to returning to Afghanistan if we can," Barbie said in an interview with Agence France-Presse at Kabul airport. "We are Afghan citizens." The couple's daughter, Sarah Entwistle, was visibly emotional as she met her parents upon their arrival in Doha, Qatar, where they had been reunited after negotiations brokered by Qatar. The Taliban claimed the pair had broken Afghan laws and were released after judicial proceedings, but the Islamist group has never disclosed a reason for their detention. The couple's ordeal highlights the complexities of international relations and the challenges faced by foreign nationals in conflict zones. Peter Reynolds, a retired engineer, and his wife Barbie, a teacher, had lived in Afghanistan for nearly two decades before being detained by the Taliban. Their son Jonathan said he was "massively grateful" to those involved in securing their release. "I am just overwhelmed with emotion," Jonathan told BBC Radio 4's Today programme. "I want to thank everyone who has worked tirelessly to secure my parents' release." The couple's return to the UK marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict between the Taliban and international forces in Afghanistan. The incident raises questions about the treatment of foreign nationals in conflict zones and the role of third-party nations in securing their release. As the couple prepares to return home, experts are weighing in on the implications of this case for international relations and humanitarian efforts. "This case highlights the complexities of international relations and the need for clear communication between governments," said Dr. Sarah Taylor, a professor of international law at the University of London. "It also underscores the importance of third-party nations in securing the release of foreign nationals." The couple's return to the UK is expected to be met with widespread media attention and public interest. As they settle back into their lives, experts will continue to analyze the implications of this case for international relations and humanitarian efforts. Current Status: The British couple, Peter Reynolds and Barbie, are due to fly back to the UK on Saturday after being reunited with their daughter in Qatar. Jonathan Reynolds expressed his gratitude and "ecstasy" upon learning of his parents' release. The Taliban claimed the pair had broken Afghan laws and were released after judicial proceedings. Next Developments: The couple's return to the UK is expected to be met with widespread media attention and public interest. Experts will continue to analyze the implications of this case for international relations and humanitarian efforts. *Reporting by Bbc.*