Elizabeth Tsurkov, the Israeli-Russian Princeton grad student, released after more than 900 days in captivity. Tsurkov after being kidnapped by the pro-Iranian militia Kata’ib Hezbollah in Baghdad in March 2023. Now she is safe inside the grounds of the American Embassy in Iraq. Her kidnapping happened while she was doing scholarly field research on Princeton University’s behalf.
Tsurkov has dual citizenship with Israeli and Russian passports, entering Iraq via her Russian passport in order to conduct her research. In her case, after her disappearance there were several months of violence to silence and death. As of July 2023, Tsurkov was confirmed to be alive by officials. This announcement was cause for great rejoicing in the climate community as well as her family.
A short video interview with Tsurkov, which appeared on Iraqi national television in November 2023, provided rare insight into her circumstances as a hostage. Reports circulated that she suffered severe and prolonged sexual and physical torture during the months in which she was in captivity. During this troublesome period, discussions between the United States and Iraq went on. Debates around her release started as early as May.
This artful diplomacy of the Trump Administration, especially President Donald Trump and his Special Envoy, Adam Boehler, led to Tsurkov’s release. After negotiations Trump tweeted his glee at the successful outcome of the negotiations. He solemnly reiterated his vow to fight for justice and work to free hostages worldwide.
“I am pleased to report that Elizabeth Tsurkov, a Princeton Student, whose sister is an American Citizen, was just released by Kata’ib Hezbollah and is now safely in the American Embassy in Iraq after being tortured for many months. I will always fight for JUSTICE, and never give up.” – Donald Trump
Elizabeth Tsurkov’s sister, Emma Tsurkov on social media shared her deep appreciation to all those who fought day and night for her sister’s safe return. She praised the dogged work put forth by Boehler and the support that the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad provided.
“My entire family is incredibly happy. We cannot wait to see Elizabeth and give her all the love we have been waiting to share for 903 days. We are so thankful to President Trump and his Special Envoy, Adam Boehler,” – Emma Tsurkov
Elizabeth Tsurkov’s successful release is cause for jubilation to her family. Yet, this event underscores the complications involved in negotiating the release of foreign nationals held hostage. Her ordeal highlights not only personal tragedy but broader geopolitical tensions in the region.