In a new chapter of the unfolding Tigran Gambaryan case, 18 U.S. State Attorneys General have called on President Joe Biden to intervene on behalf of the detained Binance executive. They urge the President to use the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act to help secure Gambaryan’s release, citing serious concerns about his deteriorating health and the questionable circumstances of his detention.
This story is quickly gaining momentum, and it’s about more than just one individual—it touches on broader issues of international law, human rights, and the treatment of U.S. citizens abroad. So, why is this case worth your attention?
Attorney General John Formella, who authored the letter to the President, made a powerful statement that has sparked a debate:
“His continued detention without cause is not only a violation of his rights but also poses a severe risk to his health and well-being. We must advocate for U.S. citizens abroad, and we urge the federal government to apply the necessary diplomatic pressure to secure his release.”
The worsening health conditions Gambaryan has endured in Nigeria’s infamous Kuje prison are alarming. Reports gathered show that his medical needs—ranging from orthopedic surgery to psychiatric care—have been ignored. Yet, the Nigerian authorities argue that Gambaryan has refused treatment, a claim that his legal team disputes.
With each day, the urgency around Gambaryan’s case grows. His lawyer, Mark Mordi, submitted a bail application based on serious medical concerns, requesting either a full release or a temporary six-week bail for immediate treatment. Gambaryan’s neurosurgeon has recommended lumbar surgery—care that is beyond the scope of the Nigerian Correctional Service’s capabilities.
This brings us to the crucial point of the story: How long can a human being be left to suffer in such conditions without the intervention of higher powers?
Is this a case of Diplomacy or Negligence?
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which is prosecuting Gambaryan, stands firm that it has not neglected his health. Their lawyer, Emeka Iheanacho, claims Gambaryan refused to cooperate with medical professionals, leaving the case in a deadlock. So, who is to blame? Could this be a matter of bureaucratic mishandling or outright negligence?
This uncertainty has heightened international scrutiny of the Nigerian justice system’s treatment of high-profile foreign detainees. Meanwhile, the U.S. government’s next steps are critical to determine whether this case sets a precedent for how U.S. citizens are treated abroad.
The call for diplomatic intervention goes beyond legalities. The plea from 18 State Attorneys General is a clear message: U.S. citizens should not be forgotten or mistreated, especially in cases where their health and basic rights are at stake. As we wait for the next court hearing on October 25, the question remains: Will President Biden step in, and what will it mean for Binance, U.S. international relations, and human rights advocacy?
What are your thoughts on this? Should the U.S. government do more to protect its citizens abroad, especially in cases like Gambaryan’s? Is there a line between diplomatic restraint and the moral responsibility to act?
Share your opinions below—let’s dive into this conversation.
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