U.S. adopts vigorous kidnapping policy

WASHINGTON -- After lengthy internal debate, the Bush administration Wednesday adopted a more vigorous policy on Americans kidnapped overseas that calls for the government to review every case to decide whether to take an active role.

In the past, the government has gotten involved in all kidnappings of U.S. officials or troops but has sometimes declined to take any role in cases involving private citizens.

Now, U.S. officials will consider whether to take actions ranging from simply giving advice in dealing with hostage-takers to actually conducting commando-style raids.

The government said it will continue to refuse to pay ransom or make other concessions to kidnappers, believing such actions would encourage more hostage-takings.

The government will continue to discourage private companies from paying ransom to free American employees. But it will cooperate with such companies even if they do decide to pay ransom, officials said.

A group of federal officials called the "Hostage Subgroup" will review each case.

The review of the policy came at a time of rising concern about hostage-taking, notably the unresolved kidnapping of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl.

Pearl was kidnapped in Pakistan last month and despite a wide search has not been found.

About two dozen Americans are reported kidnapped overseas each year.

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