ExecutiveOrdersEO
Proc 11016ProclamationTrump 47 · RCeremonial

Proclamation 11016

U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, 2026

Democracy & GovernanceDemocracy & GovernanceDefense & SecurityDefense & Security

In simple terms

This proclamation designates March 9, 2026, as U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, established by Congress in Public Law 118-31. It commemorates Americans held captive abroad, highlights the administration's claims of securing 101 releases in one year, references a new executive order creating a 'State Sponsor of Wrongful Detention' designation with sanctions authority, and calls for flag-flying and observances.

Federal Register Open PDF 91 FR 12495

Record & deadlines

  1. Signed

    Signed by the President

  2. FR published

    Published in the Federal Register · 91 FR 12495

    Federal Register PDF

  3. U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day observance and White House flag display

Key directives

  • Fly Hostage and Wrongful Detainee flag at White House on March 9, 2026
  • Call upon people of the United States to observe day with programs, ceremonies, and activities

Who is ordered

What to expect

Immediate

  • Flag flown at White House on March 9, 2026
  • Annual observance date established

Near term (90d)

—

Long term

  • Ongoing use of State Sponsor of Wrongful Detention designation authority
  • Potential expansion of designations beyond Iran

Risks & tensions

  • Vague reference to 'recently signed an Executive Order' lacks specific EO number or date
  • Claims of 'record-breaking' releases and 'historic peace deal' are unverified assertions in ceremonial text
  • Iran designation as first State Sponsor of Wrongful Detention may escalate bilateral tensions
  • Retributions described (sanctions, travel restrictions, inadmissibility) lack procedural detail in this document
Proclamation 11016: U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, 2026 · Executive Orders