The US State Department, through Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel, has declared Afghanistan as one of the most perilous countries for American citizens.

Patel stressed on the paramount importance of safeguarding US nationals, particularly those in captivity or facing hostage situations.

During a recent press conference, Patel informed Afghanistan International journalist Marzia Hosseini about the US' dedicated efforts, spearheaded by the special representative for hostage affairs, to secure the release of Americans held by the Taliban.

Since the Taliban's ascent to power two years ago, many countries, with the US leading the charge, have strongly discouraged their citizens from traveling to Afghanistan.

Earlier, the State Department specifically warned against travel to Afghanistan, citing severe threats such as terrorism, unlawful detentions, kidnappings, and criminal activities.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken has acknowledged the detention of several US citizens by the Taliban and disclosed ongoing efforts by the US government for their liberation and safe return.

However, detailed statistics regarding the number of Americans detained by the Taliban remain undisclosed by the US.