Another Plea For Kassig's Life

Friends of Abdul-Rahman Kassig gathered in Tripoli, Lebanon over the weekend to call for his release and highlight his humanitarian work.  

Islamic State militants captured Kassig a year ago while he was doing humanitarian work in Syria. But when they named him as their next beheading victim a month ago, the family went public. 

In one recorded testimonial, Dr. Ahmed Aljebawi sat between Ed and Paula Kassig, and spoke directly to their son’s captors. 

“We, the children of the Muslim community in the State of Indiana, appeal to who has control to release our brother Abdul Rahman Kassig, that his captivity would be broken, and that he would reach his safety, and be returned to his country which he came from to serve the Muslims," said Aljebawi.

The video went on to cite the Quran’s teachings of protection and forgiveness.  The message has been distributed amongst journalists in the Middle East, making it more probable that it will be heard by ISIL. 

At the event, supporters also played an interview with Kassig before he was taken.  In it he acknowledges that his work hasn’t changed the political scene but that he was able to provide comfort and hope to some Syrian people. 

The move is the latest effort by the Kassig’s to free their son who has been held by the Islamic State for over a year.   In addition to Saturday’s press conference – the first in the Middle East since Kassig’s plight was made public -- the family has held vigils, launched social media campaigns and supported Syrian aid groups. 

Last month, Abdul Rahman Kassig was targeted for beheading.  Typically ISIL has killed it’s captors about 20 days after issuing a threat.  It’s been five weeks since Kassig was named.