Elizabeth Tsurkov freed after years in captivity in Iraq

In March 2023, Elizabeth Tsurkov, a dual Israeli-Russian national and Princeton University student, was abducted during a research trip to Iraq. Her captors, members of the Iran-backed Shi'a militia Kata'ib Hezbollah, were responsible for holding her captive for more than two and a half years, during which she reportedly faced torture. On September 9, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced her release, stating that she had been returned safely to the American Embassy in Iraq. Tsurkov's sister, Emma, expressed immense gratitude towards Trump and those who worked tirelessly for her sister’s freedom, including Special Envoy Adam Boehler and U.S. Embassy personnel. Emma emphasized the crucial role of advocacy organizations like Global Reach in the efforts for Elizabeth’s release. The release announcement also highlighted the Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani's involvement, although he notably avoided mentioning Tsurkov's Israeli nationality. Despite Israeli laws forbidding its citizens from traveling to enemy states, Tsurkov reportedly managed to enter Iraq using her Russian passport to conduct academic research. While in captivity, her abductors released a disturbing video showing her under duress, making claims of espionage and pleading for her release in Hebrew, illustrating the severe conditions she endured. Following her abduction, efforts for her release intensified, engaging various governmental and nonprofit entities. Elizabeth's eventual safety marked a sigh of relief for her family and supporters, though it raises broader questions about the risks faced by individuals in conflict zones, particularly researchers and humanitarian workers. Tsurkov’s situation shines a light on the volatile dynamics within Iraq and the persistent threat posed by militias like Kata'ib Hezbollah, which are backed by Iran.