FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 25, 2006

CONTACT: Brendan Daly/Jennifer Crider 202-226-7616

Pelosi and Hastert Send Joint Letter Urging the Release of Fox News Journalists

WashingtonD.C.– House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi and Speaker of the House J. Dennis Hastert sent a joint letter to the President of the Palestinian National Authority today urging him to redouble his efforts to ensure the safe return of the two kidnapped Fox News journalists.  Please find the letter below.

August 25, 2006

The Honorable Mahmoud Abbas

President

Palestinian National Authority

Dear Mr. President:

We are deeply concerned by the recent kidnappings in Gaza of two Fox News journalists, Steve Centanni and Olaf Wiig.  While your efforts thus far to secure their release have been admirable, nearly two weeks have passed, and we are greatly concerned for their safety.

These men selflessly sacrificed their well-being to bring news to the international community. The members of the fundamentalist group who kidnapped them have hijacked the values of democracy to advance an agenda of fear and hatred.

By providing an unbiased view of the news in the region, these brave men play an invaluable role to the international community.  It is crucial that members of the press are able to report the news without hesitation or fear. 

We urge you to redouble your efforts to ensure their safe return and bring to justice those responsible for this heinous act.

Sincerely,

J. Dennis Hastert

Speaker of the House

Nancy Pelosi

House Democratic Leader

“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi