U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, 2026

Proclamation 11016 of March 9, 2026 U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, 2026 A Proclamation This U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, we extend our prayers and support to every American captive forced to spend days, months, or years in harrowing darkness and confinement. To every American unjustly held abroad—we will not waver in our commitment to bringing you home safely and securely. Since returning to office, I have worked tirelessly to deliver on my promise to leave no American behind. In just 1 year, we have secured the release of 101 detained Americans abroad—a record-breaking achievement. We have successfully brokered a historic peace deal between Israel and Gaza to deliver all remaining hostages to their families and loved ones; secured the release of more than a dozen wrongfully detained Americans from Venezuela following our decisive action against the Maduro regime; and overseen the freedom of hostages from Afghanistan, Russia, and Belarus. No longer will their days be marked by tallies on the wall; instead, they will be marked by long-awaited reunions with family, the freedom to rebuild their lives, and the lasting contributions they will make to their communities and our Nation. This year especially, we also remember that, 47 years ago, the brutal Iranian regime seized power on the backs of American hostages. Over the course of the nearly five decades since, Iran has routinely and cruelly detained innocent Americans to use as leverage against weak Presidents of the past. Under my leadership, we are finally putting an end to this evil practice. Despite our tremendous progress, our work on behalf of peace will not be complete until every American being held hostage or wrongfully detained is liberated. My Administration is executing a foreign policy of peace through strength, backed by the mightiest military on earth and an unwavering commitment to defend American lives, safety, and interests. I recently signed an Executive Order to enha…