Israeli-Russian Researcher Freed After 2-Year Ordeal in Iraqi Captivity

Israeli-Russian Researcher Freed in Iraq After Two Years in Captivity TEL AVIV, ISRAEL - September 9, 2025 - Israeli-Russian academic Elizabeth Tsurkov was released from captivity in Iraq on Tuesday after spending over two years with an Iraqi armed group, US President Donald Trump announced. Tsurkov, a Princeton University student whose sister is an American citizen, was freed by Kataib Hezbollah (KH), a militant group affiliated with Iraq's security apparatus. According to sources, Tsurkov had been tortured for several months during her captivity. "I am pleased to report that Elizabeth Tsurkov has been safely released and is now in the care of the US Embassy in Iraq," Trump said in a statement on TruthSocial. "I will continue to fight for justice and advocate for the release of all hostages, including those held by Hamas in Gaza." Kataib Hezbollah, a separate entity from the Lebanese-based Hezbollah group, has been involved in various conflicts in Iraq. The group's affiliation with Iraq's security apparatus has raised concerns about the country's handling of militant groups. Tsurkov's captivity began in 2023 when she was taken by an Iraqi armed group while working on research projects in the region. Her sister, who wishes to remain anonymous, had been advocating for her release and had spoken publicly about the family's ordeal. The release of Tsurkov comes as a relief to human rights organizations and families of hostages worldwide. "This is a testament to the power of advocacy and diplomacy," said Sarah Leah Whitson, Executive Director of Human Rights Watch Middle East and North Africa Division. "We hope that this development will lead to further releases of hostages held by various groups." The situation in Iraq remains complex, with multiple armed groups vying for control. The release of Tsurkov is seen as a positive step towards de-escalating tensions in the region. As the world waits for more information on Tsurkov's condition and her plans for the future, experts are weighing in on the implications of this development. "This case highlights the need for greater international cooperation to prevent kidnappings and ensure the safe release of hostages," said Dr. Amal Jadallah, a Middle East expert at Georgetown University. The current status of Tsurkov is that she is receiving medical attention and counseling at the US Embassy in Iraq. Her family has expressed gratitude to all parties involved in securing her release. Background: Elizabeth Tsurkov's captivity began in 2023 when she was taken by an Iraqi armed group while working on research projects in the region. Her sister, who wishes to remain anonymous, had been advocating for her release and had spoken publicly about the family's ordeal. Kataib Hezbollah (KH) is a militant group affiliated with Iraq's security apparatus. The group has been involved in various conflicts in Iraq and has raised concerns about the country's handling of militant groups. Additional Perspectives: The release of Tsurkov comes as a relief to human rights organizations and families of hostages worldwide. "This is a testament to the power of advocacy and diplomacy," said Sarah Leah Whitson, Executive Director of Human Rights Watch Middle East and North Africa Division. "This case highlights the need for greater international cooperation to prevent kidnappings and ensure the safe release of hostages," said Dr. Amal Jadallah, a Middle East expert at Georgetown University. Current Status: Tsurkov is currently receiving medical attention and counseling at the US Embassy in Iraq. Her family has expressed gratitude to all parties involved in securing her release. The situation in Iraq remains complex, with multiple armed groups vying for control. The release of Tsurkov is seen as a positive step towards de-escalating tensions in the region. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*