Bowe Bergdahl Physically Fit But Officials Say Mental, Emotional Reasons Are Holding Back Return To US

According to a new report from the New York Times, Bowe Bergdahl is physically fit but there is no timetable set for his return to the U.S. from Germany where he currently receiving treatment. The Times, speaking to medical officials, cited the mental and emotional health of Bergdahl as the main reason for the delay.

Bergdahl was being held captive by the Haqqani Network in Afghanistan and was released in a deal between the U.S. and the Taliban on May 31. The deal, brokered by the government of Qatar, in which five Taliban members, being held in Guantanamo Bay, were exchanged for the soldier. There has been much debate over his release, with many questioning the decision to negotiate with the Taliban while others have called Bergdahl a deserter after he left his post. Bergdahl's hometown of Hailey, Idaho, also cancelled plans for a celebration citing safety and crowd-control concerns.

According to the Times, Bergdahl has yet to speak to his family nor has he discussed his reasons for leaving his post and how he was captured. The report states Bergdahl is eating and sleeping well, describing him as 5-foot-9 and weighing 190 pounds and showing no outward signs of malnourishment with only minor skin and gum disorders due to poor hygiene.

A reunion with his family is the biggest obstacle facing Bergdahl and, according to the report, has yet to respond to his sister’s letter he received while being treated in Germany. A week into his recovery, Bergdahl is walking around the hospital in Landstuhl and is participating in his treatment plan.

Bergdahl told his doctors he was abused during his captivity and officials hope to learn more about his five years of captivity in order to better treat the soldier. Following treatment at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Bergdahl will be flown to an Army medical facility in San Antonio, reports the Times. Army officials will then coordinate a reunion with his family, first by speaking with them over the phone followed by an in-person meeting, which will be evaluated and will determine when Bergdahl returns to Idaho. Most recently, the FBI is investigating death threats sent to Bob Bergdahl, Bowe's father.