] An Arabic TV news network said Friday that American
] hostage Paul Johnson Jr. has been beheaded by his Saudi
] captors.

Echoing Nick's comments, I was afraid that this would happen. Saudi Arabia is obviously not going to release 1000 militants. The demands were simply used to attract attention.

My condolences to the Johnson family.

CNN.com - Report: U.S. hostage beheaded - Jun 18, 2004