WASHINGTON, Nov 7 (KUNA) -- US Secretary of State John Kerry lauded the Government of Oman late Sunday for helping to coordinate the release of an American citizen held by Ansarullah in Yemen.
In a statement, Kerry called the release of Wallead Yusuf Pitts Luqman a "positive gesture" by the rebel faction. Luqman was detained for a year and a half.
"My team and I have been focused on Wallead's detention since the beginning, working closely with our partners in the region, and I have also been in direct contact with his family," Kerry said. "I want to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al-Said and the Government of Oman for their leadership and assistance in securing Mr. Luqman's safe return." The Obama Administration "will be relentless in our efforts to secure the release of Americans unjustly detained overseas," Kerry added. "We continue to call for the release of individuals unjustly held in Yemen". (end) ys.hb