U.S. Marks First National Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day

The United States commemorates the inaugural National Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, highlighting the plight of Americans held abroad and the ongoing efforts to secure their release.

• The first National Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day was established to draw attention to Americans wrongfully detained overseas, with bipartisan legislation signed into law by President Biden.
• A national flag for wrongfully detained Americans and hostages was raised for the first time outside the State Department, symbolizing the nation's commitment to their cause.
• Families of hostages and wrongful detainees advocate for stronger government action and international cooperation to prevent kidnappings and secure the release of loved ones.
• Secretary of State Antony Blinken has crossed off 46 names from his list of Americans held hostage or unjustly detained over the past three years, indicating progress in their release efforts.
• The day also serves as a reminder of the significant challenges that remain, with at least 57 cases of U.S. nationals currently held hostage or wrongfully detained according to the Foley Foundation.

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