The Fox News Rundown Extra: Former Iran Hostage on Torture, Hope, and Survival
Mar 22, 2026
Kevin Hermening, a former U.S. Marine held during the 1979–1981 Iran hostage crisis and now running for Congress in Wisconsin, shares his harrowing captivity and survival. He recounts the embassy assault, brutal solitary confinement, and what sustained his hope. He also discusses U.S. policy toward Iran and who should shape Iran’s future if the regime falls.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Caution Against Installing Iran's Next Leader
- Hermening warns the U.S. must avoid imposing Iran's next leader and instead provide measured support.
- He suggests limited arms or support could help change the regime without direct regime installation.
Life In Tehran Before The Embassy Seizure
- Hermening recounts arriving in Tehran as a Marine security guard, enjoying local life and learning Farsi before protests erupted.
- He ties the uprising to the Shah's admission to the U.S. and Ayatollah Khomeini using it to distract from unmet promises.
How The Embassy Was Stormed And Captures Happened
- He describes the November 4, 1979 seizure: Marines grabbed helmets, tear gas, and minimal weapons and tried to delay entry to destroy classified materials.
- Hermening was in the communications vault when captors opened the main door and captured the Americans amid heavy beatings.