After Iran, Afghanistan now designated ‘State Sponsor of Wrongful Detention’ by US; Rubio calls for release of Americans

The United States has officially designated Afghanistan as a 'State Sponsor of Wrongful Detention,' following a similar designation for Iran. This announcement comes amid growing concerns over the treatment of American citizens and Afghan allies detained in the country. Senator Marco Rubio has been vocal about this issue, specifically urging for the release of Dennis Coyle, an academic researcher who has been held in Afghanistan since January 2025, and Mahmood Habibi, an Afghan-American businessman who disappeared in 2022 while working as a contractor in Kabul. The designation aims to bring international attention to the plight of these detainees and pressurize the Afghan authorities to ensure their release. The U.S. government continues to advocate for the rights of its citizens abroad, emphasizing the need for accountability in cases of wrongful detention. This development adds another layer to the complex diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Afghanistan, especially in light of ongoing tensions in the region and the challenges faced by Afghan allies in the aftermath of the Taliban's return to power.