Jimmy Carter

“ Fifty American citizens are being held hostage in Iran by a mob and a government that have become one and the same. The United States has made it clear to the leaders of Iran that we hold them personally and fully responsible for the wellbeing and safe return of every American in their hands. ”

“ The people of the United States are unanimous in their concern for their fellow citizens held in Iran. Americans have shown this concern in numerous ways that are consistent with our country's respect for law-the ringing of church bells, letters to the Iranian Mission at the United Nations, and messages to the hostages themselves. ”