Boise City Wire

U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) have introduced the Countering Wrongful Detention Act in a bid to deter states from unlawfully detaining Americans abroad. The legislation, accompanied by a House version from Representatives Haley Stevens (D-Mich.) and French Hill (R-Ark.), aims to provide the U.S. government with new tools to address this issue.

Senator Risch emphasized the need for effective deterrence against countries like Russia, China, Iran, Venezuela, and Syria that allegedly take Americans hostage for political or financial leverage. "The United States must create a more effective deterrent to preventing the wrongful detention of Americans abroad," he stated.

Senator Coons highlighted President Biden's success in bringing home over 70 wrongfully detained Americans but noted the necessity for additional protective measures. He advocated for a comprehensive strategy to counter wrongful detentions and increased punishments for such actions.

Congresswoman Stevens pointed out the increasing number of Americans being held hostage worldwide and stressed the importance of supporting detainees and their families through effective legislation. Congressman Hill shared similar sentiments, referencing his experiences with cases like Tigran Gambaryan's wrongful detention in Nigeria.

The proposed act includes creating a State Sponsor of Unlawful or Wrongful Detention designation, requiring an administration strategy on countermeasures, enhancing travel advisories, and providing increased funding for related sanctions. It also suggests including Privacy Act Waiver forms in passport applications to facilitate advocacy efforts if needed.

Supporters of the bill include Sarah Moriarty, daughter of hostage Robert Levinson; Diane Foley from the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation; Jorge Toledo, former Citgo executive detained in Venezuela; Neda Sharghi from Bring Our Families Home Campaign; and Liz Cathcart from Hostage US.