South African and American hostages murdered in Yemen after failed rescue bid
A British-born American photojournalist and a South African teacher
held by Al-Qaeda militants in Yemen were killed today during a failed
U.S.-led rescue attempt. The raid was ordered by President Barack Obama
because he feared imminent danger to the reporter.
Al-Qaeda had initially posted a video online
threatening to kill photographer Luke Somers (pictured above). American forces in
conjunction with Yemeni ground troops then launched a second rescue
attempt.
The South African, Pieree Korkie was supposed to be released tomorrow December 7. The aid group helping to negotiate his release even told his wife; "The wait is almost over."
In
a statement, President Obama did not address Korkie by name, only saying he
"authorized the rescue of any other hostages held in the same location
as Luke." The South African government did not immediately comment on
Korkie's death.
