Today, US Attorney General Merrick Garland expressed his hope Hamas would soon release more American hostages.
Garland made his comments at a press conference, citing the ongoing discussions between the United States and the Hamas-run Gaza Strip authorities as a major factor in instilling this confidence.
He added that the United States is doing its utmost to secure the release of the hostages and that, although progress has been made, the route to success has not been without its obstacles.
The Attorney General touched on some of the diplomatic efforts between the US and Hamas to alleviate what he referred to as a “difficult situation”, asking for efforts on both sides to facilitate the success of the discussions.
Garland made a direct call to Hamas, expressing his hope that they would soon free additional American hostages from the region.
The Attorney General also mentioned some of the current initiatives the US government is undertaking to ensure the release of citizens captured in the region. In particular, he noted the role of the FBI, which is involved in coordinating the efforts of different governmental institutions to help secure the release of hostages.
The Attorney General linked these measures to the ongoing talks between the US and Hamas-run Gaza Strip.
Garland concluded his statement by urging lawmakers and officials to work together in order to increase the chances of success and release American hostages from the region as soon as possible.
His comments arrived amidst a surge of kidnappings and other terror activities related to hostage taking in the Middle East and elsewhere.
The Attorney General’s remarks reflect the US’ desire to ensure that American lives are not taken hostage and that the US is taking all necessary measures to secure their release.
Despite Garland’s hopeful message, the situation remains very serious, and, until more hostages are released, the US government and its representatives will continue to work together to make sure this is achieved.
