On Memorial Day, May 25, millions of Americans will remember those servicemen who died to protect American freedom. This year, let us hope that some Americans—at least those in the White House and State Department—also reflect on the captivity of Bob Levinson, who will be marking his 3,000th day in captivity since his arrest by Iranian security forces on Kish Island, an Iranian free trade zone and resort area in the Persian Gulf.
There is simply no excuse—none whatsoever—for the United States releasing $11.9 billion in frozen assets to the Islamic Republic, not only prior to an Iranian nuclear deal, but also while Iran continues to hold four American hostages, of which Levinson has been held the longest. Indeed, Levinson has been the canary in the coal mine. Had the United States made Levinson’s release its priority and made Iran understand it would have no relief and suffer far greater consequence for touching an American, then the other three hostages—Saeed Abedini, Jason Rezaian, and Amir Hekmati—might be free men today. President Obama refuses to recognize that acquiescing to or rationalizing offense only encourages an abuser to more outrage.
Levinson has suffered for America’s weakness, but ultimately all Americans will pay the price.
from AEI » Latest Content http://ift.tt/1dpltxB
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