Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe cut short his visit to the Middle East to deal with the threat issued by Islamic State (IS) against two Japanese hostages.  He’s rejecting demands for a ransom equal to the money he pledged to nations who are fighting the terrorists.

In a video released to jihadist websites, the hostages were again wearing orange clothing, a reference to the prison jumpsuits worn by inmates at America’s Guantanamo Bay prison for terrorists.  A black-clad terrorist threatening them with a knife appears to be “Jihadi John”, the militant with a perfect London accent who appeared in earlier IS videos.  The group threatened to kill the men within 72 hours unless it receives a US$200 million ransom. 

Abe said the threat was unacceptable and vowed to save the hostages.  He added that their lives were his “top priority” and that Japan would not give in to terrorism.

“Extremism and Islam are completely different things,” Abe said.  “The international community will not give in to any form of terrorism and we have to make sure that we work together.”

Last weekend, Abe promised US$2.5 Billion in non-military assistance to the region, with $200 Million specifically earmarked for countries fighting Islamic State.  Officials said that would be focused on helping refugees displaced from Syria and Iraq.