- The U.S. Congress Foreign Affairs Committee has passed a critical resolution concerning the detention of Tigran Gambaryan in Nigeria.
- The resolution will now move to the House of Representatives for further consideration, bringing hope for Gambaryan’s release.
- A significant concern noted in the resolution is Gambaryan’s deteriorating health, exacerbated by his prolonged detention.
The U.S. Congress takes action to secure the release of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan from Nigerian imprisonment, highlighting deteriorating health and potential diplomatic repercussions.
Congressional Resolution Calls for Immediate Release
The Foreign Affairs Committee of the U.S. Congress has taken a decisive step by passing a resolution demanding the immediate release of Tigran Gambaryan, a high-ranking Binance executive detained in Nigeria since February. The document urges the Nigerian government to free Gambaryan, citing a lack of legal grounds for his ongoing incarceration. Furthermore, it calls on the U.S. government to officially classify him as a U.S. citizen wrongfully detained by a foreign entity.
Health Risks and Legal Basis
The resolution highlights severe health concerns for Gambaryan, who suffers from a herniated disc and other ailments. His condition has significantly worsened during his detention. Nigerian authorities have admitted to detaining him as a substitute for legal action against Binance. The resolution also emphasizes the provisions of the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act, urging its application to secure Gambaryan’s release.
Diplomatic Implications of Continued Detention
The diplomatic landscape between the U.S. and Nigeria, which has enjoyed over six decades of partnership, could face strain if Nigeria ignores the resolution. Richard Teng, CEO of Binance, expressed hope that the U.S. government would recognize Gambaryan as wrongfully held. Digital media attorney Andrew Rossow stressed the importance of upholding international relations, noting that the resolution’s disregard would inevitably cause tensions.
Support from U.S. Lawmakers and Binance
Binance and U.S. lawmakers continue to work relentlessly for Gambaryan’s release. Binance has expressed profound gratitude for the efforts of the U.S. House of Representatives members advocating for his freedom. The resolution also demands Nigeria provide Gambaryan with unrestricted medical access and adhere to his universally recognized human rights, drawing attention to the dire need for immediate medical attention which has been insufficiently addressed.
Family’s Plea for Justice
Yuki Gambaryan, Tigran’s wife, has been vocal about the unjust treatment her husband has endured. She expressed her deep appreciation for the widespread support and continued to urge the U.S. government to intensify efforts to secure his release. Yuki also pleaded with the Nigerian authorities to release her husband, emphasizing his innocence and the unjust nature of his detention.
Conclusion
As the resolution moves to the House of Representatives, the spotlight intensifies on Nigeria’s compliance. The resolution reflects the urgency of Gambaryan’s release, highlighting severe health risks and potential diplomatic fallout. It serves as a critical step towards securing justice for Tigran Gambaryan, with broader implications for U.S.-Nigeria relations.
