American Held Hostage By Al Qaeda Makes Plea to Obama

Warren Weinstein says he feels abandoned

(CNN) — Captured American Warren Weinstein looks tired and pale and speaks in steady monotone in pleading for his freedom to President Barack Obama. In a video released by al Qaeda on Christmas Day, he says he feels abandoned and forgotten since his abduction more than two years ago.

"The years have taken their toll," Weinstein, 72, says in the 13-minute video. He says he is not in good health and that he suffers from acute asthma. He appeals to Obama, Secretary of State John Kerry, the media, the American public and finally his family.