John Kerry Thanks Iran For Releasing Captured U.S. Soldiers

In a speech Wednesday, Secretary of State John Kerry thanked Iran for freeing a group of ten U.S. Navy sailors captured by the Revolutionary Guard Tuesday.

“I’m very pleased that our sailors have been safely returned to U.S. hands…” Kerry said. “I want to express my gratitude to Iranian authorities for their cooperation ‎in swiftly resolving this matter.”

“That this issue was resolved peacefully and efficiently is a testament to the critical role diplomacy plays in keeping our country safe, secure, and strong,” Kerry said.

“I’m appreciative for the quick and appropriate response of the Iranian authorities,” he continued. “All indications suggest or tell us that our sailors were well taken care of, provided with blankets and food and assisted with their return to the fleet earlier today.”

Kerry’s gracious remarks came an hour after Iranian state media released video and photos of the U.S. sailors being captured.

Earlier in an official statement, the Iranian navy claimed that that Kerry apologized for the “incursion” into Iranian waters. State Department spokesman John Kirby strongly denied that accusation on Twitter.

Absolutely ZERO truth to rumors that @JohnKerry apologized to Iran over Sailors. Nothing to apologize for.

— John Kirby (@statedeptspox) January 13, 2016

Watch above, via CNN.

[Image via screengrab]
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