Taliban Releases American Tourist George Glezmann After Two Years

George Glezmann, an American airline mechanic abducted by the Taliban over two years ago, has been released as part of a deal facilitated by Qatari negotiators, according to the State Department. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed Glezmann's return to the U.S., emphasizing the importance of Qatar's diplomatic efforts in securing his release. This marks the third American release from Taliban custody since January, following previous agreements for Ryan Corbett and William McKenty. Rubio noted that the situation serves as a reminder that other Americans remain detained in Afghanistan, while underscoring the ongoing efforts to free all unjustly held Americans. Glezmann was accompanied back to the U.S. by U.S. hostage envoy Adam Boehler, who met with Afghan officials prior to the release. The Taliban's actions are viewed as part of their attempt to normalize relations with the West after the tumultuous U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.