10 Sailors Captured by Iranian Forces

By Samantha Avalos 1/13/2016
Two U.S. navy boats were captured on Tuesday by Iranian military forces as they strayed into Iranian waters.

Secretary of State John Kerry worked for the quick release of the 10 sailors on Wednesday and said, “I’m appreciative for the quick and appropriate response of the Iranian authorities.”

The American sailors-nine men and one woman-were sailing near Farsi Island when they needed to refuel, a senior defense official said. Iran’s coast guard then took them into custody.

After releasing the sailors to the American naval fleet in the Persian Gulf an official said the Iranians understand the event was a mistake.

Kerry said the open dialogue between the U.S. and Iran over the nuclear program made the situation easier to handle.

“This kind of issue was able to be peacefully resolved and efficiently resolved and that is a testament to the critical role that diplomacy plays in keeping our country safe, secure and strong.”

President Obama did not mention the incident during his State of the Union Address. Critics are saying he was more concerned with naming off his accomplishments than handling the situation.

“I think the White House needs to be honest and transparent as quickly as possible with the members of Congress, the House and the Senate.” Said Republican Colorado Sen. Cory Gardner.

There was no official apology from Iran, but Iran’s state television program showed a video of a U.S sailor apologizing and saying it was all a “mistake.”