Al-Qaeda posts video of hostage it threatens to kill

Al-Qaeda has threatened to murder a British-born photographer held hostage by the extremist Islamic group, according to a terrorist monitoring group.

Luke Somers, an American citizen, was captured in the Yemeni capital Sana'a more than a year ago. Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) released the video, aimed at the US government, threatening to kill the hostage if its demands are not met.

The video, which the Site Intelligence Group said had not yet been released publicly, begins with a reading in Arabic from Nasser bin Ali al Ansi, an AQAP official, before Mr Somers appears and gives a statement in English.

He said: "My name is Luke Somers. I'm 33 years old. I was born in England, but I carry American citizenship and have lived in America for most of my life.

“It’s now been well over a year since I’ve been kidnapped in Sana’a. Basically, I’m looking for any help that can get me out of this situation. I’m certain that my life is in danger.

“So as I sit here now, I ask if anything can be done, please let it be done. Thank you very much.”

Al Ansi gave the US government three days to meet the demands or "otherwise, the American hostage held by us will meet his inevitable fate". PA