US President confirms death of ISIS hostage, Kayla Mueller

US President, Barack Obama has confirmed the death of Kayla Mueller, an American who was captured by ISIS in Syria.

ISIS had said on Friday, February 6, that 26-year-old Mueller had been killed in an airstrike by Jordan against the sect.

Both countries stated at the time that the reports could not be confirmed and Jordan dismissed it as part of ISIS’ criminal propaganda.

However, Obama on Tuesday, February 9, confirmed that Mueller had indeed lost her life but did not specify how.

"It is with profound sadness that we have learned of the death of Kayla Jean Mueller. Kayla represents what is best about America, and expressed her deep pride in the freedoms that we Americans enjoy, and that so many others strive for around the world,” Obama said in a statement.

"No matter how long it takes, the United States will find and bring to justice the terrorists who are responsible for Kayla's captivity and death," he added.

"We are heartbroken to share that we've received confirmation that Kayla Jean Mueller, has lost her life," her parents, Carl and Marsha Mueller, also said confirming her death.

Jordan began intense military operations against ISIS on Thursday, February 5, after the group released a video of the of pilot, Moaz al-Kasasbeh.