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43 Hostages Released by ISIS in Syria Following Ransom Payment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

02/22/2016 Washington D.C. (International Christian Concern) – At approximately 7:00 this morning, International Christian Concern (ICC) received word that ISIS released the last group of Assyrian Christians being held hostage in the Syrian Province of Hasakah.  43 individuals were released, signaling the end of the hostage situation in Hasakah – namely, the members of the Assyrian Church.

Those released are now reunited with their families, many of whom are under 10 years old.  The ISIS-affiliated group in Hasakah kidnapped hundreds of Assyrian Christians last year, but has been working through negotiations with the Assyrian Church of the East to secure the hostage release in return for ransom.  Although there are still hostages in the southwestern region of Syria, this final release of the Hasakah Province hostages is an immense blessing to the Assyrian Christians who have been tormented by their loved ones’ kidnappings.

Emma Lane, Regional Manager for the Middle East, said, “ICC has been communicating with the Assyrian Church of the East regarding the release of the hostages.  We look forward to continuing our work with the Assyrian Church and providing any support that they may need during this time of restoration.  We are grateful for the efforts of all those involved in helping to secure this final release of the Hasakah Province hostages and pray for a similar outcome with all those held by ISIS-affiliated groups throughout Syria and Libya.  Today, the church rejoices at the return of these individuals and prays for physical and emotional restoration of the victims and their families.”

For interviews, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: press@persecution.org, (301)-859-3842