American academic researcher Dennis Coyle has returned to the United States after being held captive by the Taliban in Afghanistan for over a year. Coyle arrived in Texas on Wednesday, reuniting with his family in San Antonio.
According to statements from the Taliban, Coyle's release was prompted by a plea from his 83-year-old mother. His family had not had contact with him for nine months prior to learning he was alive. Coyle was detained in January 2025, though the specific accusations against him were never publicly disclosed.
"Our family is overjoyed to announce our brother Dennis Coyle is free from the Taliban," the family said in a statement.
Coyle, who spent nearly two decades conducting research and assisting communities in Afghanistan, was reportedly held in a basement, raising concerns about the mental health impacts of prolonged isolation.
Special envoy Adam Boehler, who met with Coyle and his family upon their reunion, thanked former President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio for their efforts in securing Coyle's release. Coyle expressed gratitude to Trump and Rubio during the emotional reunion.
The Taliban stated that Coyle's release was granted after Afghanistan’s Supreme Court concluded that his previous imprisonment was sufficient. His family remains focused on his recovery and reintegration into American life.