Kerry Thanks Iranians at the National Defense University
Secretary of State John Kerry at approximately 1100 this morning (from prepared remarks):
Before I begin, I want to underscore how pleased I am that our Sailors were safely returned to U.S. hands this morning.
As a former Sailor myself, I know as well as anyone how important our Naval presence is around the world, and certainly in the Gulf region – and I couldn't be prouder of our men and women in uniform.
I also want to thank the Iranian authorities for their cooperation and quick response. These are always situations, which as everybody here knows have an ability, if not properly guided, to get out of control. And I’m appreciative of the quick and appropriate response of the Iranian authorities. All indications suggest, and tell us, that our sailors were well taken care of, provided with blankets and food and assisted with their return to the fleet earlier today. And I think we can all imagine how a similar situation might have played out three or four years ago, and in fact it is clear that today this kind of issue was able to be resolved peacefully and efficiently resolved- and that is a testament to the critical role diplomacy plays in keeping our country safe, secure, and strong. And that's really at the core of what I'm here to talk to you about today.