Biden: We are determined to bring imprisoned Americans home
Joe Biden called on the Taliban to release Mark Frericks, a veteran and construction worker, on the second anniversary of his capture in Afghanistan, stressing Washington's determination to free all Americans held abroad.
In a statement marking the second anniversary of the Taliban taking a US citizen hostage, the US President called the threat to the safety of civilians unacceptable and the hostage-taking a cruel and cowardly act.
The statement addressed to the Taliban states: "Before the Taliban can think of gaining legitimacy, they must release Mark Frericks. This is non-negotiable."
No government in the world has yet recognized the Taliban government.
Mark Ferrix, 59, is a US Navy veteran who was kidnapped in Kabul on January 31, 2020, while participating in a construction project.
The kidnapping of Frericks came a month before the US agreed to withdraw troops from Afghanistan. He is said to be in the hands of the Haqqani network, an extremist branch responsible for many deadly suicide attacks.
In his statement, Joe Biden emphasized that his administration will spare no effort to return any American imprisoned or held captive abroad.
Mark Ferris is believed to be the last American held hostage in Afghanistan. He worked on construction projects in the country for a decade.
The Ferrers' family has criticized the U.S. government for not doing enough to rescue and free him. "Mr. President, bring my brother home," his sister wrote in a note to the Washington Post.
Biden has emphasized Washington's determination to release American prisoners and hostages, while Barry Rosen, the country's former hostage in Iran, went on a hunger strike two weeks ago in Vienna, in front of the hotel where the nuclear negotiations were held, calling for the release of American or dual-national prisoners in Iran.
Nizar Zaka, another American citizen who was imprisoned in Iran for four years, also joined Barry Rosen in this protest.
Robert Malley, the US special representative for Iran, has said that the release of American prisoners in Iran is a prerequisite for an agreement with Tehran.
Source: DW
