Congressman Rich McCormick Urges U.S. Action to Secure Release of Binance Executive Tigran Gambaryan

Congressman Rich McCormick Urges U.S. Action to Secure Release of Binance Executive Tigran Gambaryan

Congressman Rich McCormick (R-GA) has called on the U.S. Department of State to intervene in the case of Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive who has been detained by Nigerian authorities since February. During a hearing of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, McCormick labeled Gambaryan a “hostage” and emphasized the urgency of securing his release.

In his questioning of Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, McCormick expressed frustration over the lack of progress in Gambaryan’s case. Gambaryan was arrested while in Nigeria for discussions related to cryptocurrency policy and is facing money laundering charges. McCormick noted that Gambaryan meets several conditions outlined in the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act but remains imprisoned.

“We very much want to get it resolved, and it is a subject of real concern,” Campbell acknowledged, recognizing the ongoing diplomatic efforts to assist Gambaryan.

Health Concerns Heighten Urgency

As legal and diplomatic measures continue, there are increasing worries regarding Gambaryan’s deteriorating health. Reports indicate he is experiencing significant health issues, exacerbated by inadequate medical care in custody. In a distressing video, Gambaryan expressed his anguish, stating, “I’m not okay… I’m innocent—why are you doing this to me?”

McCormick took to social media to highlight these health concerns, noting that Gambaryan has been denied access to essential medical care and legal representation. He warned that Gambaryan’s health is in serious decline and called for the State Department to prioritize his case. “His family has not hugged him in over seven months. Time is running out. We need the State Department to elevate his case and bring him home NOW,” McCormick stated.

Bipartisan Support for Humanitarian Release

McCormick's call for action has garnered bipartisan support. In June, Representatives French Hill (R-AR) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) visited Gambaryan and reported that he was suffering from malaria and double pneumonia. Following their visit, Hill remarked, “Tigran must be immediately granted a humanitarian release, the remaining charges dropped, and he must return home to America where he belongs.”

Gambaryan's health has further deteriorated, with reports indicating he is suffering from a herniated disc without adequate treatment. His wife, Yuki, expressed her frustration over the situation, stating, “They cannot keep playing games with my husband’s life like this. This entire situation is inhumane and degrading, and I am fed up. There must be consequences for this disregard of law and human rights.”