Britain's special envoy to Afghanistan has called on the Taliban to ensure due process for journalists detained in recent raids, amid growing international alarm over the crackdown on press freedom.

The diplomatic intervention came after reports that multiple journalists were arrested in coordinated operations across several Afghan provinces, with no formal charges made public.

'The UK calls on the Taliban to respect the rights of detained journalists, provide them with access to legal representation, and ensure full transparency about their cases,' the envoy said in a statement.

The British intervention adds to a chorus of international voices demanding accountability from the Taliban on press freedom. Several European nations have also expressed concern, with calls for the issue to be raised at the United Nations.

The detentions have been described by press freedom organizations as the most significant crackdown on Afghan media since the Taliban returned to power in 2021.

Based on reporting from Amu TV, May 2026