U.S. HOSTAGE AND WRONGFUL DETAINEE DAY, 2026

On March 9, 2026, President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation designating U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, highlighting his administration's "Peace Through Strength" approach to recovering Americans held abroad.Key highlights of the proclamation include:Record-Breaking Recoveries: The President reported that 101 Americans were released during the first year of his second term. Specific successes mentioned include:A peace deal between Israel and Gaza that returned all remaining hostages.The release of over a dozen Americans from Venezuela following military and diplomatic actions against the Maduro regime.Recoveries from Afghanistan, Russia, and Belarus.New "State Sponsor of Wrongful Detention" Designation: Trump signed an Executive Order granting the Secretary of State the authority to officially designate countries as "State Sponsors of Wrongful Detention." This allows the U.S. to impose firm retributions, including sanctions, travel restrictions, and barring foreign nationals from entry.Focus on Iran: The President identified Iran as the first country to receive this new designation. He linked current policy to the 47th anniversary of the 1979 Hostage Crisis, vowing to end the practice of using Americans as "leverage."Foreign Policy Doctrine: The administration characterizes these efforts as a move away from the "weak" policies of the past in favor of a military-backed commitment to meet enemies with "swift justice."Official Observance: The proclamation follows Public Law 118-31 and directs the Hostage and Wrongful Detainee flag to be flown at the White House, calling on citizens to observe the day with relevant ceremonies.The proclamation frames the recovery of detainees as a central pillar of the "America First" agenda and a victory for American sovereignty and human dignity.