President Obama confirmed the death of American hostage Kayla Jean Mueller, held by Islamic State terrorists before she was killed.
In a statement, Obama expressed “profound sadness” at the news of her death and recalled Mueller’s compassion and humanitarian spirit.
“Kayla represents what is best about America, and expressed her deep pride in the freedoms that we Americans enjoy, and that so many others strive for around the world,” Obama said.
Obama also vowed “justice” for her killers and those that held her hostage.
“No matter how long it takes, the United States will find and bring to justice the terrorists who are responsible for Kayla’s captivity and death,” he warned.
Obama reminded Americans that ISIS was a “hateful and abhorrent terrorist group,” that he routinely derides for their “barbarism.”
“On this day, we take comfort in the fact that the future belongs not to those who destroy, but rather to the irrepressible force of human goodness that Kayla Mueller shall forever represent,” he said.