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Obama clears the way for hostages’ families to pay ransom

FILE - This undated file image made from a video released by Islamic State militants Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2014, purports to show the killing of journalist James Foley by the militant group. In a softening of long-standing policy, the Obama administration will tell families of Americans held by terror groups that they can communicate with the captors and even pay ransom without fear of prosecution, part of a broad review of U.S. hostage policy that will be released June 24. Four Americans have been killed by the Islamic State since last summer: journalists Foley and Steven Sotloff and aid workers Peter Kassig and Kayla Mueller. After the release of gruesome videos showing the beheadings of some hostages, Obama approved an airstrike campaign against the Islamic State in both Iraq and Syria. (Militant website via AP, File) FILE - This undated file image made from a video released by Islamic State militants Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2014, purports to show the killing of journalist James Foley by the militant group. In a softening of long-standing policy, the Obama administration will tell families of Americans held by terror groups that they can communicate with the captors and even pay ransom without fear of prosecution, part of a broad review of U.S. hostage policy that will be released June 24. Four Americans have been killed by the Islamic State since last summer: journalists Foley and Steven Sotloff and aid workers Peter Kassig and Kayla Mueller. After the release of gruesome videos showing the beheadings of some hostages, Obama approved an airstrike campaign against the Islamic State in both Iraq and Syria. (Militant website via AP, File)

By Associated Press June 24, 2015 1 min read

WASHINGTON (AP) – President Barack Obama is clearing the way for families of U.S. hostages to pay ransom to terror groups without fear of prosecution, as the White House seeks to address criticism from those whose loved ones have been killed in captivity.

U.S. officials say the hostage policy review to be released Wednesday will also state that the U.S. government can help facilitate communications with terrorists on behalf of the families. However, a prohibition on the U.S. government directly paying ransom or making other concessions to terrorists will remain in place.

Obama will speak about the policies shortly after meeting with the families of Americans who have been held captive. The president ordered the review last year after families complained about their dealings with the administration.