Most were locals of the area, but an array of named foreign hostages were used in an entirely different way - as propaganda tools, and bargaining chips. Since September 2014 Cantlie has appeared in a series of Islamic State videos. Less than a fortnight later Islamic State posted another video apparently showing the beheading of Haines, who was aged 44. GETTY IMAGES Since September 2014 John Cantlie has appeared in a series of Islamic State videos. Islamic State had threatened to kill the two Japanese hostages unless they receive US$200 million in 72 hours.

Source: Stuff April 14, 2019 23:03 UTC