a neighborhood being 'held hostage' to fear [=a neighborhood controlled or dominated by fear]
The terrorists demanded a plane and a pilot in exchange for the 'hostages'.
The 'hostage' crisis is now entering its second week.
(..) I should like some fuel... and to use your city as a base as I search nearby systems for General Grievous. - - He is here. We are being held hostage. - They are watching us. - I understand. Tenth level, thousands of battle droids. Tell your people to take shelter. (..)2005 Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith