US accuses Taliban of ‘Hostage Diplomacy’, labels Afghanistan over wrongful detentions

The United States has formally designated Afghanistan as a country responsible for “wrongful detention,” accusing the Taliban-led government of holding American citizens to gain political leverage. The move signals a sharp escalation in Washington’s pressure on the Taliban and could further complicate Afghanistan’s already fragile international standing .

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Taliban has continued to employ tactics such as detaining foreign nationals to secure concessions from the United States and the international community . “These practices must end,” Rubio said, warning that Afghanistan remains unsafe for Americans due to the risk of arbitrary detention.

Washington has urged the Taliban to immediately release Americans believed to be in custody , including researcher Dennis Coyle, who has been held since January 2025 , and Afghan-American businessman Mahmood Habibi, who disappeared in 2022 . US authorities believe Habibi was detained by Taliban forces , although the group denies holding him.

The issue was also raised at the United Nations Security Council, where US Ambassador Mike Waltz accused Taliban leaders of engaging in “hostage diplomacy.” He questioned international aid requests from Kabul while the authorities continue to detain foreigners and restrict basic rights for Afghan women .

The designation comes as Afghanistan struggles to rebuild diplomatic relations after the Taliban returned to power following the US withdrawal in 2021 . Many countries have yet to formally recognise the Taliban administration , citing concerns over governance, human rights and security commitments.

Analysts say the l atest US move could deepen Afghanistan’s diplomatic isolation and complicate ongoing international engagement with the Taliban government, particularly as humanitarian aid and economic assistance remain critical for the country’s stability.