“Many of the changes we are announcing today are a direct result of their [families’] recommendations,” Obama said.
Under the new policy, the United States will establish a hostage response group, work with the private sector to secure the return of hostages as well as establish a cross government hostage recovery fusion cell.
“It is true that there have been times when our government regardless of good intentions has let them [hostage families] down,” Obama added. “I promise them that we can do better.”
Obama’s Executive Order comes amid calls for the United States to review its hostage policy as the Islamic State and other extremist groups increasingly rely on funding from ransom payments.
In briefing room, Obama's homeland security advisor Lisa Monaco says there are over 30 US hostages being held abroad. pic.twitter.com/OZaiUvCtx1
— Philip Crowther (@PhilipinDC) June 24, 2015
The White House noted, however, that Washington would not pay ransoms for US citizens held hostage overseas despite the policy review.
White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest said on Tuesday that offering concessions to terrorists allows them to fund their operations and makes US citizens more significant targets.
