KATKO STATEMENT ON REPORTED PAYMENT TO IRAN

Syracuse, NY – Congressman John Katko (NY-24) today released the below statement following reportsthat the United States exchanged $400 million with the Iranian government for the release of several American hostages:

“While details are emerging, reports that the United States secretively exchanged $400 million with the Iranian government for the release of several American hostages is gravely concerning.  I am especially bothered by the efforts made to conceal this transaction — including the delivery on wooden pallets by unmarked plane, and the deliberate change in currency to avoid sanctions.  The Iranian regime has continued to suppress basic human rights and support foreign terrorist organizations.   Coupled with the dangerous, broken policy of the nuclear deal with Iran, this incident, which appears to be a ransom payment, emboldens our enemies and degrades our ability to negotiate from a position of strength, while putting more Americans at risk of being captured. I urge greater transparency from the Administration, including a fully-detailed response to Congress on this payment."

Congressman John Katko represents the 24th Congressional District, which includes all ofOnondaga, Cayuga, and Wayne Counties and the western portion of Oswego County.  For more information, please visit https://katko.house.gov or www.facebook.com/RepJohnKatko.

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