Israeli-Russian researcher Elizabeth Tsurkov has been released after 'being tortured for many months' by her Iraqi militia abductors, US President Donald Trump has announced. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that Tsurkov, a Princeton student, was safely in the American embassy in Iraq after being freed by Kataib Hezbollah. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed her release, praising the efforts of Iraqi security services to uncover her location. Tsurkov had gone missing in Iraq during a research trip in March 2023, and her abduction came to light when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu mentioned that she was being held by the Iran-backed militia. Tsurkov entered Iraq with her Russian passport, focusing her research on the Levant and its historical conflicts. The militia, Kataib Hezbollah, is recognized as a terrorist organization by the US, receiving support from Iran. The release of Tsurkov reflects ongoing geopolitical tensions and the dangers faced by researchers in conflict zones.
Elizabeth Tsurkov Released After Months in Captivity
Elizabeth Tsurkov Released After Months in Captivity
Israeli-Russian researcher Elizabeth Tsurkov has been freed after months in captivity by Iraqi militia, marking a significant diplomatic effort involving American and Iraqi authorities.
Elizabeth Tsurkov, an Israeli-Russian researcher, was released after being held by the Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah for several months. Her release was confirmed by US President Trump and Iraqi Prime Minister al-Sudani, highlighting extensive diplomatic efforts. Tsurkov, a Princeton student, was conducting research in Iraq when she was abducted. The incident sheds light on the complex relationship between local militias and foreign nationals in the region.
