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Biden issues executive order on hostages amid pressure from families

The executive order will authorize government agencies to impose financial and travel sanctions on those involved in the wrongful detention of Americans.
Elizabeth Whelan, sister of Paul Whelan, speaks during a press conference to launch the “Bring Our Families Home" campaign held by family members of hostages being held around the world, Washington, May 4, 2022.

President Joe Biden signed a new executive order on Tuesday aimed at bolstering efforts to bring home Americans held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad and improving how the government communicates with their families.

The announcement comes as the Biden administration faces increasing pressure from hostage families, some of whom have questioned the White House's commitment to recovering their loved ones. 

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