Taliban Says 2 Americans Freed in Prisoner Swap, and Ryan Corbett’s Family Says He’s One of Them
In a groundbreaking development, the Taliban announced today that two American prisoners have been released in a prisoner swap, sparking joy and relief for families of hostages held captive for years. Amidst the celebration, a family in Texas is rejoicing, as they confirm that one of the freed prisoners is their loved one, Ryan Corbett.
The Taliban, in a statement, confirmed that the swap took place on Wednesday, citing the release of two American nationals, who were being held at the Khairkhwa prison in Kandahar. The prisoners, whose identities were previously unknown, were turned over to the Qatar-based organization, the Emir of Qatar, who facilitated the negotiations.
Ryan Corbett, 34, a former Air Force staff sergeant and contractor, was taken hostage in 2012 in Afghanistan. His family, including his parents, Laura and Matt, and his wife, Cindy, have been battling for his release for years. Ryan’s family had been working tirelessly, along with aid agencies, lawmakers, and advocacy groups, to secure his freedom.
"We are elated and relieved that Ryan has been freed," Mark Corbett, Ryan’s father, said in a statement. "We are still trying to process the incredible news, but we are grateful that our son is finally coming home. We can’t wait to see him and hug him again."
Corbett’s family had been actively involved in the effort to secure his release, planting billboards, creating social media campaigns, and meeting with officials to plead for his freedom. Their perseverance paid off, as the Taliban’s announcement brought a long-awaited end to their seven-year ordeal.
The second American prisoner, whose name has not been released, is also reportedly an American national. The Taliban, known for their brutal treatment of captives, had previously extracted confessions from prisoners, using them to broadcast on social media and intimidate other captives.
The prisoner swap comes at a significant moment in the ongoing peace talks between the United States and the Taliban. Negotiations have been ongoing in Qatar, with the goal of reaching a pact to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan.
While the Taliban’s announcement is a significant milestone, many questions remain about the details surrounding the prisoner swap, including the reasons behind the release, the conditions under which they were freed, and the role of third-party facilitators like Qatar.
As Ryan Corbett’s family prepares to reunite with their loved one, they are also calling for continued action to promote the release of other American hostages still held abroad. "We are grateful for the efforts of everyone who has helped us secure Ryan’s freedom, and we urge others to continue working tirelessly to bring home all American prisoners," Mark Corbett said.
For now, the Corbetts are focused on reuniting with their son, "Our hearts are full, and we can’t wait to have Ryan back home, safe and sound," said Laura Corbett, Ryan’s mother. "This is a day that will change our lives forever."
