Bush Tempers His Thanks to Syria, Iran

WASHINGTON —  President Bush today welcomed the release of hostage Frank H. Reed, thanked both Syria and Iran but said again, “We cannot rest . . . until all hostages are free.”

He called the news of Reed’s release by kidnapers in Lebanon cause for joy, but expressed concern about the plight of six other Americans and 10 other Westerners who remain hostage.

“This is a joyous day for Mr. Reed, his family, his friends and all Americans,” Bush said in a written statement. He noted that Reed had been held hostage for nearly four years.

“With Mr. Reed’s release, we have six innocent Americans that are still being held hostage in Lebanon,” as well as the other foreign hostages. Their predicament weighs on our mind and tempers the joy we feel today.”

As he did eight days ago when hostage Robert Polhill was let go, Bush thanked Syria and Iran--two states the United States has accused in the past of sponsoring terrorism.

“Once again, we wish to express our gratitude to all those who through their efforts helped in Mr. Reed’s release,” Bush said. “In particular we would like to thank the government of Syria for facilitating this release. We would also like to thank the government of Iran for using its influence to help bring about this humanitarian step.”

Bush met later in the afternoon at the White House with Polhill, the rail-thin educator still recuperating from his 39 months in captivity.

In his statement, Bush said: “We cannot rest, however, until all hostages are free. We urge all parties who either hold hostages or have any influence over the hostage takers to work for the expeditious and unconditional release of the remaining hostages.”