August 10, 2023

Addressing the Implications of Hostage Diplomacy

The Amer Foundation celebrates the release of five Americans from Iran’s Evin prison yet has concerns over the consequences of hostage diplomacy.

Washington, DC. – In response to the recent news concerning the release of five American hostages from Iran's Evin prison, the Amer Foundation expresses relief and hope for the hostages, their families, and for the principles we steadfastly uphold. However, the method through which this release is being facilitated necessitates a pertinent conversation about the principle and consequences of hostage diplomacy.

The current administration is reportedly negotiating a deal to release $6 billion in funds to secure the return of the hostages now under house arrest. While we recognize the multifaceted nature of these negotiations, we are compelled to voice our concern regarding the precedent this sets and the message it sends to other nations.

The practice of hostage diplomacy, which involves the detention of foreign citizens on dubious charges to gain leverage, has been on the rise since similar negotiations took place during the Obama administration. This raises the question, "Are we inadvertently incentivizing hostage-taking?" While we strive to secure immediate relief for hostages, we must also consider the long-term implications for national security and citizen safety.

The international community must rally together to discourage this practice. We encourage the United Nations and other key international bodies to take a stand against hostage diplomacy, establishing rigorous regulations and penalties to deter nations from using it as a bargaining chip.

In addition, it is crucial to explore alternative strategies for securing the release of detainees that avoid rewarding the detaining states. This could involve diplomatic pressure, sanctions, international legal actions, or negotiations that do not involve financial or strategic concessions.

As an organization, Amer Fakhoury remains committed to advocating for the rights and safety of hostages, while condemning the practice of hostage diplomacy. We stand in solidarity with the families of those affected and will continue to work towards a world where no citizen is used as a negotiating tool in international politics.

Ultimately, we must not forget that the lives of individuals are at stake. It is our collective responsibility to create a world where the dignity and safety of every person are respected, regardless of political and diplomatic tensions. We must ensure that we do not encourage practices that endanger more lives, but instead work diligently to uphold the value of human life and freedom.

For more information about the Amer Foundation and its ongoing work to promote human rights and accountability, visit www.amerfoundation.org or contact team@amerfoundation.org 

**About the Amer Foundation**

The Amer Foundation is a non-profit organization established in memory of Amer Fakhoury, a U.S. citizen who faced illegal detention and torture in Lebanon. The foundation is committed to promoting human rights, accountability, and justice for those who suffer similar injustices. Through advocacy efforts and public awareness campaigns, the Amer Foundation seeks to create a world where every individual's rights are protected and respected.