The fate of four Christian hostages held in Iraq remains unknown as the deadline, set by their kidnappers to release all prisoners under U.S. and British detainment, expired.
About 240 detainees held by multinational forces were released Saturday, according to al-Iraqiyaa television. Since the recent release is not uncommon and often arranged weeks in advance, there is no indication the release was connected to the kidnapper's demands, reports say.
In Amman, Jordan, Christian Peacemakers Team (CPT) members waited patiently for a response from their contacts in Baghdad.
"In some ways no news is good news – but we haven't heard anything. We're all waiting" said Peggy Gish, a CPT member of that has been coordinating media response in the city.
The men – Briton Norman Kember, 74; Tom Fox, 54, of Virginia, USA; and Canadians James Loney 41, and Harmeet Singh Sooden, 32 – were kidnapped by the previously unknown “Swords of Righteousness” two weeks ago in the Iraqi capital or Baghdad.
Candlelight Vigil and Prayers
In Toronto, Canada, members of CPT attended an Amnesty International Candlelight Vigil sharing a moment of silence to reflect on the plight of their coworkers.
"We've been arrested together, we've done other social justice work,” CPT worker Lyn Adamson said of Canadian colleague James Loney. She added that “he's a wonderful person and a good friend."
Though the militants had threatened to kill hostages by Thursday if their demands were not met, they extended their deadline to Saturday, according to a video aired on Al-Jazeera television.
The families of the peace advocates remained hopeful and are praying for a miracle.
"We're keeping our fingers cross and praying," said Donna LaFramboise, James Loney's sister-in-law. She added that the family did not have direct contact with anyone in Iraq and are relying on news reports for information.
Across the Atlantic, the family of Norman Kember in London was praying for his release. Bruce Kent, a peace campaigner and friend of Kember for 15 years, said that he has not lost hope.
"We still feel hopeful that Norman will be released," he said. "I do not think any other hostage has had so much support."
Increased Kidnappings
Just today, Egyptian engineer Mohammed Ibrahim al-Hilali was found dead after being taken hostage Friday.
Yesterday, an Islamic website frequented by militants claimed that American security contractor, Ronald Schulz, was killed shortly after the Thursday deadline. The U.S. consulate in Iraq cannot confirm the report yet.
In the past two weeks, eight foreigners have been seized including German archaeologist, Susanne Osthoff, and French Engineer, Bernard Planche.
Some reports have speculated that the recent wave of kidnappings was meant to intimidate voters for the upcoming Iraqi elections scheduled for next week.
Hudson Tsuei
Christian Today Correspondent