Four Americans detained in China for several years have been the focus of emotional pleas from their families, who are urging the U.S. government to take action to bring them home. The detainees, Kai Li, Mark Swidan, Dawn Michelle Hunt, and Nelson Wells Jr., have been enduring physical and mental suffering during their prolonged detention in China.
The families appeared before the Congressional-Executive Commission of China to shed light on the plight of their loved ones. The issue of Americans detained in China has gained renewed attention following the recent release of American pastor David Lin after nearly two decades in prison.
According to a commission report, more Americans are detained in China than in any other foreign country. The families highlighted the dire conditions faced by the detainees and called on the Biden administration to intervene.
One family member described how his father, Kai Li, had suffered a stroke and endured harsh conditions in a Shanghai jail, including being confined to a small cell with inadequate facilities. Another family expressed concern over their son's deteriorating health, citing chronic pain, seizures, malnutrition, and severe depression.
The families emphasized the urgent need for the detainees to be brought back to the United States, urging President Biden to take action. They shared heartbreaking accounts of their loved ones' suffering and the challenges they face in securing their release.
Lawmakers at the hearing expressed outrage over the situation, with one senator condemning China's legal practices and human rights record. The families' emotional pleas underscored the urgency of the situation and the need for diplomatic intervention.
The Chinese Embassy in Washington defended its legal system, stating that detainees are treated equally regardless of nationality. However, the families continue to push for the release of their loved ones, emphasizing the need for immediate action.
The hearing also featured a video message from a mother pleading for her son's release. The families are calling on the U.S. government to prioritize the return of the detainees and ensure their safety and well-being.
