President Barack Obama cleared the way Wednesday for families of American hostages to pay ransom to secure their loved ones' release, despite a long-standing U.S. ban on making concessions to terrorist groups.
As part of a six-month review of hostage policies, the White House said it "does not intend to add to families' pain in such cases by suggesting that they could face criminal prosecution."
There will be no change to the law banning material support for terrorists, but the Justice Department indicated it would not hold families accountable if they pursue ransom payments.