Attempt, and u. S. Troops came very close to trying to free Kayla Mueller as well as other hostages. That attempt happened last july inside syria, u. S. Troops attempting the daring escape attempt to release these hostages. It failed. The primary hostage we heard about in this failed rescue attempt was james foley. You may remember him. He was a journalist who was later killed by isis. When u. S. Troops were there, there was evidence inside those jail cells, some writings scribbled on the walls that is believed to belong to hostages. Key to this case are some hair strands that were found and u. S. Official tells us they believe those belonged to mueller. Why is this important . Because last july is when the rescue attempt was, michael. What we know is she was alive as recently as july. Michael. Statement from kaylas parents, is it directed toward isis . Reporter it is a specific address to the captors. They dont directly say isis but clearly thats who they are talking to. Whap the Publ