To the Point
America’s Hostage Policy: Is It Time for a Change?
The Obama Administration says it’s reviewing its policy of refusing to negotiate with terrorist groups for the return of hostages. The hard line is designed to discourage ISIS and others from seizing Americans. Is it working? Is paying ransom turning some European countries into ATM’s for terrorist organizations?
By Warren Olney • • 52m ListenThe Obama Administration says it’s reviewing its policy of refusing to negotiate with terrorist groups for the return of hostages. The hard line is designed to discourage ISIS and others from seizing Americans. Is it working? Is paying ransom turning some European countries into ATM’s for terrorist organizations?
Also, nationwide protesters convene in Mexico City, and Bill Cosby and a journalist’s dilemma.
Photo: The late journalist, James Foley, in Syria 2012. © Manu Brabo
In this episode
3 storiesNationwide Protesters Convene on Mexico City
It’s the anniversary of Mexico’s revolution in 1910, but a day of celebration has turned into a day of mass protest against political corruption and the likely murders of 43 students. Eric Martin reports for Bloomberg News from Mexico City.
Read the story7 minAmerica's Hostage Policy: Is It Time for a Change?
The US and Britain refuse to negotiate with terrorists. Paying ransom will only encourage extremists to raise money by seizing hostages. The parents of American journalist James Foley learned that can have unintended consequences when the so-called Islamic State released video of his beheading.
Read the story35 minBill Cosby and a Journalist’s Dilemma
Among African Americans six years ago, the Pew survey showed Bill Cosby was second only to Oprah Winfrey as a “good influence” on the black community. Cosby is enormously popular with all other Americans, too.
Read the story8 min
