I'm very pleased that our Sailors have been safely returned to U.S. hands.

As a former Sailor myself, I know the importance of naval presence around the world and the critical work being done by our Navy in the Gulf region. I'm proud of our young men and women in uniform and know how seriously they take their responsibilities to one another and to other mariners in distress.

I want to express my gratitude to Iranian authorities for their cooperation ‎in swiftly resolving this matter.

That this issue was resolved peacefully and efficiently is a testament to the critical role diplomacy plays in keeping our country safe, secure, and strong.