WASHINGTON - With terrorists beheading Americans, President Barack Obama has ordered a review of how the United States responds when citizens are taken hostage overseas.
The White House says over the summer, Obama ordered a "comprehensive review" of the tools to try to bring American hostages home.
The United States does not pay ransom, unlike many other governments. The administration's position is that doing so would put more Americans at risk, and administration officials say that policy is not part of the review.
A letter from the Pentagon says it is focused on examining engagement with hostages' families, intelligence collection and diplomatic efforts.
The letter was sent to Rep. Duncan Hunter after the Republican raised concerns the U.S. is not exhausting its opportunities to protect and rescue hostages.
