Sister of former Iran detainee says, freedom for hostages "starts with a name"

CBS News
March 20, 2026
3 min read

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The sister of a former Iran detainee says identifying hostages by name is crucial to securing their freedom as military tensions escalate.

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Neda Sharghi, sister of Emad Shargi who spent five years detained in Iran, told "Face the Nation" moderator Margaret Brennan that identifying hostages by name is crucial to securing their freedom. The family and friends of Americans held in Iran are increasingly anxious about their safety as military strikes in the region intensify. Sharghi's comments reflect growing concern among relatives of detainees that public attention and acknowledgment of individual cases may be essential to pushing for their release. The interview underscores the personal toll on families navigating a volatile diplomatic situation amid escalating tensions with Iran.

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