Taliban Releases 2 US Prisoners

Image copyright: AP [via Al Jazeera]

The Facts

  • On Tuesday, the US State Dept. announced that the Taliban had released two US nationals who had been detained in Afghanistan.

  • According to State Dept. spokesman Ned Price, the releases were a “goodwill gesture” that didn't include the exchange of funds or a prisoner swap.


The Spin

Pro-establishment narrative

In a clear attempt to create a cushion in the aftermath of its latest assault on women's rights, the Taliban is seeking to appease the US. A futile move that won't distract from the way it's treating women. The global community cannot recognize the Taliban as legitimate until they respect the human rights of all Afghans.

Establishment-critical narrative

The Taliban is committed to respecting women's rights as defined by the Islamic Sharia laws, not by secular customs imposed by the so-called international community. Female students will be allowed access to formal education once a decent cultural and religious environment has been created in Afghanistan.


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