US, Taliban in secret talks over prisoner swap
The Biden administration is reportedly in secret negotiations with the Taliban for a prisoner swap.
The deal could free three Americans held in Afghanistan in exchange for releasing a Guantanamo Bay detainee.
Talks began in July and gained momentum in November, when Washington proposed freeing Muhammad Rahim al Afghani, an alleged aide to Osama bin Laden.
In return, the Taliban would release George Glezmann, Ryan Corbett, and Mahmoud Habibi, who have been detained since 2022.
However, the Taliban denies holding Habibi.
The Taliban has countered with a proposal to release Glezmann and Corbett in exchange for Rahim and two other detainees.
President Joe Biden has yet to make a decision, according to National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan.
The White House has confirmed the discussions, saying the safe return of Americans is a top priority.
Rahim, who has been detained at Guantanamo since 2008, is considered a high-profile prisoner.
The Pentagon claims he was a trusted associate of bin Laden, but Rahim denies the charges.
Biden has also vowed to close Guantanamo Bay prison.
Earlier this week, 11 detainees were transferred to Oman, leaving 15 at the facility.
Of these, some are eligible for transfer or review, while others face ongoing military proceedings.
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