British couple in their 70s arrested by the Taliban in Afghanistan
GuardianFEB 22
British Couple in Their 70s Detained by Taliban
Above: Bamiyan province, Afghanistan, pictured on Nov. 4, 2024. Image copyright: Mohammad Faisal Naweed/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The UK Foreign Office is aware of two British nationals being held in Afghanistan. However, assistance is limited as the UK does not recognize the Taliban and has no diplomatic presence in the country.
Narrative B
Peter and Barbie Reynolds love Afghanistan. They are appealing directly to the Taliban rather than seeking help from the UK government. They need to be freed so they can continue serving the Afghan government and people.