Elizabeth Tsurkov,an Israeli-Russian researcher held captive in Iraq for over three months,landed in Israel Tuesday,ending a tense and secretive diplomatic effort to secure her release. The news was confirmed by the Prime Minister’s Office and Tsurkov’s family, bringing an end to weeks of uncertainty surrounding her fate.
Tsurkov, a doctoral candidate at Princeton University specializing in Syria and Iraq, was abducted in Baghdad in March after publicly criticizing Iraqi Shia militias. Her case highlights the precarious situation for researchers and journalists operating in the region, and underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play between Israel, Iraq, and Iran-backed groups. Her return follows intensive negotiations reportedly mediated by Qatar, and raises questions about the ongoing efforts to secure the release of other hostages held by Hamas and other militant organizations.
The Prime Minister’s office stated that Tsurkov was brought back to Israel “as part of a joint effort by Israeli intelligence and security forces.” Details of the agreement that led to her release remain classified, but officials indicated it did not involve concessions to Iraq or any other party.
“We are overjoyed to welcome elizabeth back home,” said her family in a statement. “We thank the State of Israel, the intelligence community, and all those who worked tirelessly to secure her release. we ask for privacy as we adjust to having her back in our lives.”
Tsurkov’s research focused on the aftermath of the Islamic State’s defeat in Iraq and Syria, and the role of Iranian-backed militias in the region. Prior to her abduction, she had been openly critical of the militias’ human rights abuses and their growing influence within the Iraqi government. Her capture sparked international concern, with calls for her immediate release from governments and human rights organizations.
