hostages

Hostages, in general, are people seized and detained against their will to compel an action from an outside party, such as a government, military force, organization, or individual. Hostage-taking occurs in warfare, political conflicts, organized crime, and acts of terrorism, and hostages are usually civilians or combatants not actively participating in hostilities.

International law prohibits taking hostages. The Fourth Geneva Convention prohibits taking hostages in occupied territories, and other treaties criminalize kidnapping and hostage-taking. States are also obligated to protect civilians and to ensure humane treatment of detainees; hostage-taking is treated as a crime or a violation depending on context.

Common aims include coercing concessions such as release of prisoners, political demands, ransom payments, or influence over policy decisions.

Notable cases include the Iran hostage crisis (1979–1981) where 52 American diplomats and citizens were held for 444 days; the Munich 1972 Olympics crisis where Israeli athletes were kidnapped and killed; and modern piracy off Somalia where ships and crew are held for ransom.

Outcomes vary; some hostages are released unharmed; others are harmed or killed; negotiations, military rescues, and public pressure all play roles; ethical and legal debates continue about negotiating with hostage-takers and paying ransoms.