British hostage's father makes emotional plea to ISIL militants
- 10 years ago
The father of a British photojournalist being held by Islamic State militants has made an emotional appeal for his release.
Speaking from hospital, Paul Cantlie wanted to deliver a message to his son’s captors but has yet to receive a response.
He strained to speak after undergoing throat surgery but wanted to make sure his message got through:
“To those holding John, please know that he is a good man, he sought only to help the Syrian people and I ask you, from all that is sacred, to help us and allow him to return home safely and to those he loves and who love him.”
John Cantlie was kidnapped in Syria in 2012 and has appeared in three videos made by the jihadist group, in which he makes clear he was speaking as a prisoner whose life is in danger.
Three hostages have been killed by ISIL fighters since August, they include two US journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff and British charity worker David Haines.
Speaking from hospital, Paul Cantlie wanted to deliver a message to his son’s captors but has yet to receive a response.
He strained to speak after undergoing throat surgery but wanted to make sure his message got through:
“To those holding John, please know that he is a good man, he sought only to help the Syrian people and I ask you, from all that is sacred, to help us and allow him to return home safely and to those he loves and who love him.”
John Cantlie was kidnapped in Syria in 2012 and has appeared in three videos made by the jihadist group, in which he makes clear he was speaking as a prisoner whose life is in danger.
Three hostages have been killed by ISIL fighters since August, they include two US journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff and British charity worker David Haines.