U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued a statement today marking the tenth anniversary of journalist James Foley’s tragic murder by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). Foley’s death on August 19, 2014, shocked the world, drawing attention to the brutal realities faced by journalists and aid workers in conflict zones.
“Myrna and I send our thoughts and deepest sympathies to the family of James Foley, who was senselessly murdered ten years ago today by ISIS. In the face of such unimaginable pain, James’ mother, Diane, and his loved ones have turned their profound loss into a powerful force for good through the Foley Foundation, tirelessly advocating for Americans held hostage and unjustly detained around the world. James’ legacy continues to inspire, remembered as a brave and gifted journalist who brought to light the harsh realities of human suffering in conflict zones and the enduring spirit of humanity and resilience in places like Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, and Syria.
“James’s tragic death is a stark reminder that he is not the only American who was murdered in Syria. Fellow journalist Steven Sotloff and aid workers Kayla Mueller and Peter Kassig were also murdered by ISIS, and psychotherapist Majd Kamalmaz was killed while held in captivity by the Bashar al-Assad regime. These courageous Americans dedicated themselves to helping others, and their loss highlights the profound impact and dangerous nature of their noble work. Together, with the Biden-Harris Administration and our partners, we will continue to do everything in our power to help recover and return the remains of James and other Americans killed in Syria by ISIS and the Assad regime.” Cardin said.
James Foley, a brave and dedicated journalist, was kidnapped by ISIS in November 2012 while reporting on the Syrian Civil War. Despite extensive efforts to secure his release, Foley was held captive for nearly two years before his brutal execution was broadcast by ISIS in a propaganda video intended to intimidate and spread fear. His murder was the first in a series of executions by ISIS that also claimed the lives of fellow journalist Steven Sotloff, aid workers Kayla Mueller and Peter Kassig, and many others.
Senator Cardin’s statement honors Foley’s enduring legacy as a journalist who courageously reported from some of the world’s most dangerous regions, including Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, and Syria. His work highlighted the human cost of war and conflict, shedding light on the suffering and resilience of those caught in the crossfire. Foley’s commitment to uncovering the truth and giving a voice to the voiceless continues to inspire journalists and humanitarians worldwide.
In the years since his death, Foley’s family has channeled their grief into advocacy through the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation, which works tirelessly to support journalists, promote the safety of Americans held hostage abroad, and push for stronger U.S. policies on the return of detained citizens. The foundation’s efforts have become a powerful force for good, ensuring that Foley’s legacy lives on.
Senator Cardin’s statement also remembers the other Americans who were tragically murdered by ISIS and the Assad regime, including Steven Sotloff, Kayla Mueller, Peter Kassig, and Majd Kamalmaz. These individuals, like Foley, dedicated their lives to helping others and exposing the harsh realities of life in war-torn regions. Their sacrifices serve as a reminder of the dangers faced by those who work on the frontlines of conflict and humanitarian crises.
Ten years after Foley’s murder, the fight against ISIS and the Assad regime continues. The U.S. government, in partnership with the Biden-Harris Administration, remains committed to bringing justice for the victims and ensuring the safe return of the remains of Americans killed abroad. As Senator Cardin emphasized, these efforts are a crucial part of honoring the legacy of James Foley and others who have given their lives in service to the truth and humanitarianism.
The world continues to grapple with the challenges of international terrorism and the threats posed to journalists and aid workers in conflict zones. James Foley’s memory serves as a beacon of courage and dedication, inspiring continued efforts to protect those who risk their lives to document the truth and aid those in need.