Iraqi PM Confirms Release of Kidnapped Academic Elizabeth Tsurkov

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced the release of Israeli-Russian academic Elizabeth Tsurkov, who was kidnapped in Baghdad in March 2023. The announcement comes after extensive efforts by Iraqi security services over several months. In a post on the social media platform X, al-Sudani stated, “As a culmination of extensive efforts exerted by our security services, we announce the release of the Russian citizen, Elizabeth Tsurkov.”

In a parallel statement, US President Donald Trump confirmed Tsurkov’s release through his Truth Social platform. He indicated that she had been freed by the pro-Iran group Kataeb Hezbollah, suggesting that she had endured torture during her captivity. Trump also mentioned that Tsurkov is currently at the US embassy in Baghdad.

The kidnapping incident occurred in March 2023, and at that time, there was no claimed responsibility for Tsurkov’s abduction. However, Israeli officials later accused Kataeb Hezbollah of holding her captive. Tsurkov was reportedly in Iraq to further her doctoral studies at Princeton University, having likely entered the country on her Russian passport.

The situation surrounding Tsurkov’s abduction and subsequent release highlights ongoing tensions in the region and the challenges faced by foreign nationals in Iraq.

As the news develops, further insights into the circumstances of her release and the implications for regional security are expected to emerge, particularly regarding the role of non-state actors such as Kataeb Hezbollah in Iraq. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, given its potential impact on diplomatic relations and security protocols in the region.