The Economic Times

Libya's Khalifa Haftar played key role in release of US hostage Kevin Rideout held by Islamic State: Sources

An American hostage, Kevin Rideout, was freed from an Islamic State affiliate. Eastern Libyan commander Khalifa Haftar helped broker the deal for his release. Rideout, a pilot for a missionary group, was kidnapped in Niger last October. The U.S. had prioritized his recovery and sought overflight access for searches. Details regarding any exchange for his freedom remain undisclosed by officials.