The Americans, many of whom are veterans and former military contractors, were convicted on drug charges, a representative for their families told ABC News.

Private consultant Jonathan Franks said that additional Americans he represents are expected to be released by Kuwait later.

Kuwait has released a group of American prisoners, including veterans and military contractors jailed for years on drug-related charges, in a move seen as a gesture of goodwill between two allies, a representative for the detainees told The Associated Press on Wednesday.