Main content

I became a Muslim after the Taliban kept me hostage

Jibra’il Omar, formerly Timothy Weeks, was held hostage for three years in Afghanistan by the Taliban. He converted to Islam while in captivity. Bara'atu Ibrahim hears his story.

Bara’atu Ibrahim speaks to Jibra’il Omar, formerly Timothy Weeks; an Australian educator who was held captive for three years in Afghanistan by the Taliban. However, Jibra’il Omar made news six years ago, after he converted to Islam whilst in captivity, and astonishingly went back to Afghanistan after his release. Over a period of some months, Bara’atu built up a relationship with Jibra’il over a messaging service whilst he was in Kabul. She spoke to him on two occasions, where he shared his story and gives the reasons of why he decided it was right for him to become a Muslim, and moreover celebrate with his captors once they came back into power.

Presenter: Bara’atu Ibrahim
Producer: Rajeev Gupta

This programme has been edited since it was originally broadcast.

Available now

27 minutes

Last on

Fri 20 Sep 202422:32GMT

Broadcasts

  • Fri 8 Mar 202404:32GMT
  • Fri 8 Mar 202411:32GMT
  • Fri 8 Mar 202418:32GMT
  • Fri 8 Mar 202423:32GMT
  • Fri 20 Sep 202403:32GMT
  • Fri 20 Sep 202412:32GMT
  • Fri 20 Sep 202417:32GMT
  • Fri 20 Sep 202421:32GMT
  • Fri 20 Sep 202422:32GMT

Podcast