West STL News

A bipartisan and bicameral delegation, led by Congresswoman Ann Wagner and joined by U.S. Senator Joni Ernst, has returned from the Middle East after advocating for the immediate release of American hostages held by Iran-backed Hamas. The delegation, which included several other members of Congress, traveled to Egypt, Israel, Qatar, and Bahrain to meet with senior leadership and lead negotiators.

During the trip, Congresswoman Wagner emphasized the importance of eradicating Hamas and the need to bring American hostages home. She stated, "As Vice Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Co-Chair of the Abraham Accords Caucus, I went to see the situation on the ground and speak directly to international partners who are working with us to bring American hostages home." She also expressed her grief for the lives lost to Hamas terrorists and insisted on the immediate release of the remaining American hostages.

Senator Ernst, who played a crucial role in leading the delegation, highlighted the urgency of the situation. She said, "Three months after Hamas's brutal attacks on Israel, it is evident that more must be done to secure the release of all hostages, especially Americans, held by Iran-backed Hamas." Senator Ernst emphasized the need for productive meetings with senior leaders and lead hostage negotiators to reunite families, stating that "every second counts."

Other members of the delegation also expressed their concerns and determination to bring Americans home. Senator Ted Budd remarked, "At a time of incredible instability, when evil and terror are taking advantage of a weak U.S. president, now is the time to reassure our allies and partners that they have a friend in the United States." Congressman Darrell Issa, who witnessed the aftermath of a massacre in Israel, emphasized the high stakes of the situation and the need for strong leadership.

The delegation's meetings with heads of state and government officials in the Middle East were described as productive and informative. Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman-Schultz noted that regional leaders are committed to securing the release of the American and Israeli hostages held by Hamas. She stated, "Our high-level meetings with leaders in the region were productive and I will remain committed to ensuring the safe return of the hostages."

The delegation also had the opportunity to meet with family members of the hostages, as well as former hostages and victims of the Hamas attack. Their firsthand experiences further underscored the importance of their mission. Congressman Jimmy Panetta reflected on the emotional and impactful nature of the trip, stating, "Although it was an emotional trip, it was a very impactful trip, as we must continue to work with our partners in the region towards a peaceful resolution."

Overall, the delegation's return from the Middle East marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to secure the release of American hostages held by Hamas. Their bipartisan and bicameral message of support and determination sends a strong signal to both allies and adversaries in the region. As the delegation members continue to advocate for the safe return of the hostages, their work remains paramount in ensuring greater stability and safety in the Middle East.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://wagner.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delegation-working-release-hostages-returns-middle-east