The small oil-rich state of Qatar in the Gulf is working to help free four Americans held hostage by various groups in Syria, according to the Reuters news agency. The report comes a day after Qatar helped free another journalist who had been held by the Nusra front, allied with al-Qa’ida for almost two years. Qatar has been criticized by the international community over its treatment of Asian guest workers, and its support for jihadi groups. Qatar is interested in polishing its international image and helping to secure the release of the foreign journalists, who have been held for almost two years, could help mute this criticism. The world was shocked last week when ISIS gunmen published a video showcasing the execution of journalist James Foley. ISIS is believed to be holding at least two other foreign journalists, and has threatened to kill one if the US does not stop bombing Iraq.