[Ynet]. Italia's foreign minister on Friday denied media reports that Italia had paid $12 million in ransom to free two young aid workers held for five months in Syria, telling politicians "we are against paying ransom."
| "... in theory. In practice, of course, one must be practical." |
A report from Middle Eastern media that Italia had paid $12 million to free 21-year-old Greta Ramelli and 20-year-old Vanessa Marzullo sparked debate in Italia about financing terrorism through ransoms. Northern League leader Matteo Salvini said, if true, such a payment would be "grotesque."
| Probably was only $11.9 million, making the statement true, though no less grotesque in encouraging future kidnappings. |
|