Mel Gibson Praises U.S. Efforts in Dramatic Rescue of American Detained in China

Mel Gibson Praises U.S.

Renowned actor Mel Gibson has expressed his gratitude to U.S. officials for their successful efforts in securing the release of Mark Swidan, an American who had been wrongfully imprisoned in China since 2012.

 

In a heartfelt video message, Gibson highlighted the plight of Swidan, who endured over a decade of incarceration under harsh conditions for a crime he did not commit. “He was wrongfully detained and suffered unimaginable conditions, but his release has now been achieved,” Gibson stated.

 

The actor specifically acknowledged the critical roles played by Texas congressional representatives, including Senator Ted Cruz, Swidan’s dedicated attorney Jason Poblete, and journalists Elizabeth Vargas and Alison Weiner, who tirelessly advocated for his release.

 

Swidan’s freedom was part of a prisoner exchange between the United States and China, which also saw the release of Americans Kai Li and John Leung. A National Security Council spokesperson confirmed the development, stating, “These individuals will soon reunite with their families after years of separation.”

 

The Biden administration’s success in bringing home Americans detained abroad follows significant diplomatic efforts and advocacy from various stakeholders. The release comes in response to calls from the Congressional Executive Commission on China, which urged the administration to prioritize the plight of detained U.S. citizens.

 

“Thanks to this administration’s diplomacy with the People’s Republic of China, all wrongfully detained Americans in the PRC are now home,” the spokesperson added.

 

This milestone underscores a continued commitment to protecting U.S. citizens held unjustly overseas and resolving complex geopolitical challenges through diplomacy.