I read that there were some folks who were tsk-tsking Jill Carroll and insinuating that she was somehow involved in her own kidnapping. All of this based on that interview she gave immediately after she was let go.

I took all that she said right then with a grain of salt. How would you feel after immediately being let go? You might wonder if it was a trick–if you were being tested. I would. Anyone would. You might say what you thought was expected of you so that you could stay alive.

It sickens me that there are those out there who immediately rushed to judge her based on those words. I hate to shame people, but shame on you. Even if she had been speaking her truth, why judge her? What does that gain you. You ought to be ashamed.

Jill Carroll Statement–in her own words:

Things that I was forced to say while captive are now being taken by some as an accurate reflection of my personal views. They are not. The people who kidnapped me and murdered Alan Enwiya are criminals, at best. They robbed Alan of his life and devastated his family. They put me, my family and my friends – all those around the world – who have prayed so fervently for my release through a horrific experience. I was, and remain, deeply angry with the people who did this.

I also gave a TV interview to the Iraqi Islamic Party shortly after my release. The party had promised me the interview would never be broadcast or aired on television, and they broke their word. At any rate, fearing retribution from my captors, I did not speak freely. Out of fear I said I wasn’t threatened. In fact, I was threatened many times.

Also, at least two false statements about me have been widely aired: One, that I refused to travel and cooperate with the U.S. military and two, that I refused to discuss my captivity with U.S. officials. Again, neither statement is true.