US Accuses Afghanistan of 'Hostage Diplomacy'

The US State Department labeled Afghanistan a sponsor of wrongful detention, joining Iran in this designation, after reports of the Taliban detaining Americans for policy concessions. The US warns Americans against travel to Afghanistan, citing safety concerns and ongoing hostage diplomacy by the Taliban.

The United States has escalated its rhetoric against Afghanistan, accusing it of 'hostage diplomacy'. This comes after the State Department officially designated Afghanistan, alongside Iran, as a sponsor of wrongful detention amid concerns over the Taliban's alleged detention of American citizens.

US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, highlighted the humanitarian aid discrepancies and expressed skepticism over the Taliban's adherence to international agreements, specifically the 2020 Doha peace deal. The situation has raised questions about the continuation of international aid and diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Americans against traveling to the region, stressing the risks posed by the Taliban's tactics. The families of detained Americans and advocacy groups have welcomed the US government's stance, while urging the Taliban to release those held.

(With inputs from agencies.)