Iran seeking ‘many billions of dollars’ in ransom to free US hostages

Lawmakers: ‘Ransom’ to Iran puts Americans at risk

On ‘America’s Newsroom,’ spokesman John Kirby says timing of $400M transfer during release of U.S. hostages was ‘coincidental’

Japan PM in Jerusalem demands release of Islamic State hostages

A masked Islamic State fighter speaks during a ransom video demanding $200 million for the release of two Japanese citizens. (screen capture: YouTube)

Shinzo Abe says lives of two captive Japanese ‘top priority’ after video emerges demanding $200 million ransom

Philippine militants free 2 kidnapped Germans

Stefan Okonek, Henrike Dielen.

Philippine Islamist militants threaten to kill German captives

Soldiers stop a vehicle at a military checkpoint in Jolo, Sulu, southern Philippines September 25, 2014. REUTERS/Stringer