Washington, Sept 29, SPA -- The White House today hailed the release of two female Italian aid workers who had been held hostage in Iraq. "It's good news to hear, anytime hostages are released in the safe custody of authorities," White House spokesmen Scott McClellan said. Armed men seized the two workers three weeks ago at their office in Baghdad. Italian President Silvio Berlusconi said the women would be back with their families Tuesday night, describing the news as "a moment of joy."--SPA1157 Local Time 0857 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/206556