Elisabeth Tsurkov, an Israeli-Russian researcher, has possibly been transferred to Iran, complicating U.S.-Iraq relations. Iraqi Prime Minister al-Sudani claims ignorance of her location, despite a willingness to assist. U.S. diplomatic efforts continue, with her sister disputing claims of her presence in Iran. Tsurkov has been missing since March 2023, held by the militia Kata’ib Hezbollah, amidst fears for her safety.
The case of Israeli-Russian researcher Elisabeth Tsurkov has created significant diplomatic tensions, particularly between Iraq and the United States, amid reports of her possible transfer to Iran. Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani claims that he does not know where she is held but has expressed a desire to cooperate for her release. Simultaneously, U.S. officials intensify their diplomatic efforts to secure her return, despite these difficulties.
Recent statements from an Iraqi official indicate that there are persistent rumors regarding Tsurkov’s potential transfer to Iran for interrogation. “It is entirely possible that she was secretly transferred there…” said the official. This uncertainty raises alarm, especially given the risks associated with such circumstances, although the official also noted that Tsurkov’s foreign identity might provide her some protection.
Emma Tsurkov, Elisabeth’s sister, has strongly dismissed suggestions that her sister is in Iran, claiming that the Iraqi government knows precisely who is responsible for her holding. Emma mentioned her discussions with U.S. hostage envoy Adam Boehler, noting that they have received “encouraging updates” related to the efforts to secure her sister’s release.
Elisabeth Tsurkov, 36, is a prominent researcher in Middle Eastern studies and a PhD candidate at Princeton University. She vanished in Baghdad in March 2023 while conducting fieldwork. In July of that year, the Israeli Prime Minister’s office confirmed that she was being held captive by the Shiite militia Kata’ib Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran and recognized as a terrorist organization by the United States.
The ongoing situation involving Elisabeth Tsurkov highlights the complexities of international diplomacy in hostage situations, especially concerning her alleged transfer to Iran. While Iraqi officials indicate a willingness to collaborate in her release, contradictions from family members raise questions about the Iraqi government’s knowledge of her whereabouts. The case underscores the perilous dynamics between the involved nations and emphasizes the stakes for Tsurkov’s safety.
Original Source: www.i24news.tv
