- The U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee has passed a resolution demanding the Nigerian government release Binance executive, Tigran Gambaryan, due to his deteriorating health condition in prison.
- The resolution, H.Res. 1348, was introduced by Republican Representatives Rich McCormick and French Hill, urging immediate medical care and intervention from the U.S. State Department.
- Gambaryan, a former U.S. Internal Revenue Service agent and head of financial crime compliance at Binance, is reportedly suffering from severe health issues, including a herniated disk and pneumonia.
U.S. Lawmakers Urge Nigeria to Release Binance Executive Amid Health Concerns
The Legislative Push for Gambaryan’s Release
The U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee’s recent passing of H.Res. 1348 highlights the urgency of addressing the detention of Tigran Gambaryan. The resolution not only demands his immediate release but also seeks to provide him with unrestricted medical care. The move underscores the committee’s commitment to ensuring the welfare of American citizens detained abroad, particularly in allied nations like Nigeria.
Background: Detention and Health Decline
Gambaryan, detained alongside fellow Binance executive Nadeem Anjarwalla in February, faces allegations of engaging in illicit financial activities within Nigeria. While Anjarwalla managed to escape custody in March, Gambaryan remains imprisoned under challenging conditions. Reports from his family indicate that his health has severely deteriorated, exacerbated by a herniated disk and pneumonia that have left him mostly bedridden.
International and Diplomatic Efforts
Republican Reps. Rich McCormick and French Hill introduced the resolution in July, receiving a voice vote of approval during a recent committee hearing. The unanimous support highlights bipartisan concern for Gambaryan’s situation. McCormick emphasized the distress Gambaryan’s detention has caused his family and criticized the treatment of an American citizen by an allied government.
State Department’s Involvement and Response
Top Democrat of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Rep. Gregory Meeks, confirmed the U.S. State Department’s active involvement in Gambaryan’s case. According to Meeks, the department is meticulously weighing the facts and engaging with Nigerian authorities. Despite these efforts, the Nigerian government has yet to address the U.S. diplomatic appeals, prompting calls for continued pressure.
Conclusion
The resolution passed by the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee marks a significant step towards securing the release of Tigran Gambaryan. The ongoing diplomatic efforts and legislative advocacy reflect the U.S. government’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad. As the situation unfolds, it remains critical to monitor the Nigerian government’s response and ensure that Gambaryan receives the necessary medical attention and a fair resolution to his case.
