Vienna confirms that its national has been released in Doha with the help of the Qatari government. The Taliban has released Herbert Fritz, an 84-year-old Austrian far-right nationalist who was arrested in Afghanistan last May. The Austrian government announced that Fritz arrived in Qatar after mediation by the Qatari government facilitated his release. Despite his arrest in Afghanistan, Fritz expressed his desire to visit again, noting that while there were kind people, there were also foolish individuals among his captors.
After defying Austria’s warning against traveling to Afghanistan, Fritz was arrested by the Taliban. His positive reports on life in Afghanistan fueled anti-immigration arguments, leading to his arrest on suspicion of spying. Austria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs worked tirelessly to secure his release, with thanks to Qatar and the EU representation in Kabul for their assistance. The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, was acknowledged by Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer for his support in bringing the Austrian citizen back home.
Fritz, a founding member of the National Democratic Party, an extreme right group banned in 1988, had support from Austria’s far-right Freedom Party for his release. Qatar also expressed gratitude to the caretaker government in Afghanistan for releasing Fritz. The State of Qatar is recognized for its international partnership in mediation and dispute resolution through peaceful means.