George Glezmann, a U.S. citizen who was detained by the Taliban for more than two years, has been released, according to the State Department.
George Glezmann, a U.S. citizen who was detained by the Taliban for more than two years, has been released, according to the State Department.
“Today, after two and a half years of captivity in Afghanistan, Delta Airlines mechanic George Glezmann is on his way to be reunited with his wife, Aleksandra”, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement.
Rubio thanked Qatar, which said it “facilitated” the release of Glezmann, for its “steadfast commitment and diplomatic efforts”, calling Qatari officials “instrumental in securing George’s release.”
“George’s release is a positive and constructive step”, Rubio added. “It is also a reminder that other Americans are still detained in Afghanistan. President Trump will continue his tireless work to free ALL Americans unjustly detained around the world.”
Afghanistan is classified by the State Department as a Level 4 country, meaning Americans should not travel there under any circumstances.
Glezmann, an airline mechanic for Delta Air Lines, was visiting Afghanistan as a tourist in late 2022 and intended to spend five days in the country exploring its history and culture, according to his family.
