Conditions of Detention Revealed
Attorneys representing Ryan Corbett, an American detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan since August 2022, have filed urgent petitions with the United Nations. The petitions include testimonies from recently released detainees detailing Corbett’s deteriorating physical and mental state, along with reports of torture and mistreatment by the Taliban. Corbett’s fellow detainees expressed serious concerns about his well-being, fearing for his life due to medical issues, maltreatment, or self-harm.
Allegations of Torture
The petitions, submitted to the U.N. Special Rapporteur on Torture and the U.N. Working Group for Arbitrary Detention, shed light on the appalling conditions endured by Corbett. Former detainees described threats of violence, severe malnourishment, blackouts, and fainting episodes. Corbett was reportedly subjected to inhumane treatment, including being forced to listen to the torture of other prisoners while confined in a dark, unsanitary basement cell.
Response from Taliban and Family
Suhail Saheen, the head of the Taliban’s political office in Qatar, denied knowledge of the torture claims, stating that Corbett had access to medical care and communication with his family. Meanwhile, Corbett’s wife, Anna, expressed grave concern over her husband’s deteriorating condition and criticized the lack of action from the U.S. government in securing his release.
International Response
The U.N. now has the opportunity to investigate the case and issue legal opinions on Corbett’s detention. The family’s attorney emphasized the urgent need for intervention, highlighting the life-threatening conditions faced by Corbett. The State Department confirmed ongoing efforts to secure the release of detained Americans in Afghanistan.
Call for Action
With mounting pressure for Corbett’s release, including a recent Senate resolution, the urgency to bring him home before it’s too late is paramount. Despite limited communication with the White House, Anna Corbett continues to advocate for her husband’s safe return, emphasizing the critical need for immediate action.