The Guide includes information that families requested, including information to help them understand U.S. policy and available options; guidance on engaging with U.S. diplomatic and consular channels, and submitting letters from members of Congress or other influential individuals; and appropriate points of contacts, such as legal resources and counseling services.

Hostage Aid Worldwide (HAW) held a virtual workshop earlier this week, bringing together former US hostages, families of current hostages, and experts and officials to discuss how to bring an end of the continuing cycle of hostage-taking in Iran and elsewhere, how to help and support families, and the legal tools governments need to use more.