World

US forces rescue American hostage in Nigeria: Pentagon

The hostage was identified in Niger as Philip Walton

Updated 5 years ago · Published on 07 Nov 2020 5:05PM

US forces rescue American hostage in Nigeria: Pentagon
According to the Pentagon, the hostage is now safe and in the care of the US State Department. — AFP pic, November 7, 2020

WASHINGTON — US forces have rescued an American hostage in Nigeria, the Pentagon said Saturday.

The man was abducted in Niger and taken across the border to Nigeria, where US forces freed him without suffering any casualties, it said.

"The United States is committed to the safe return of all US citizens taken captive," Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a separate statement.

"We delivered on that commitment late last night in Nigeria, where some of our bravest and most skilled warriors rescued a US citizen," he added.

The hostage was identified in Niger as Philip Walton. He is now safe and in the care of the US State Department, the Pentagon said.

President Donald Trump hailed the rescue operation.

"Big win for our very elite U.S. Special Forces today. Details to follow!," he tweeted. — AFP, November 7, 2020

Spotlight

Business

Ringgit gains as oil prices plunge on hopes of Iran conflict de-escalation

Events

UKM to establish academic research platform named after Dr Wan Azizah

Malaysia

Deepavali preparations destroyed as flash floods inundate Sungai Buloh homes

Malaysia

Melaka polls: Calm campaign puts focus on what parties can offer voters

Malaysia

Anwar challenges Hadi over ‘Dajjal’ label

Malaysia

Shuhaily remains AKPS chief pending official transfer order, says lawyer

Malaysia

Najib's former wife Tengku Puteri Zainah passes away

Malaysia

Matrade exposes scam involving fake procurement orders, advance payment demands

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

Malaysia

“Don’t panic,” Govt assures stable essential goods supply amid geopolitical tensions, monsoon threat

You may be interested

World

France braces for nationwide strikes and protests as Macron seeks to avert fresh unrest

World

Trump faces Iran war dilemma after Republican midterm losses

World

Iran claims three vessels catch fire in Strait of Hormuz, captures two US drones

World

Nearly 90 million displaced people exposed to climate risks, UNHCR warns

World

Trump faces Republican revolt after midterm rout puts Democrats in control of Congress

World

Israeli President certifies election results

World

Indonesia deploys troops in Jakarta amid political turmoil over alleged phone-spying scandal

World

Wave of hoax bomb threats disrupts European flights, prompts fighter jet escorts