Israel seeks global support to rescue woman held captive in Iraq

JERUSALEM,— Israeli officials are working with international allies to secure the release of Elizabeth Tsurkov, an Israeli-Russian researcher who disappeared in Iraq nearly two years ago and is believed to have been kidnapped.

A senior Israeli official said Thursday that the case was a key topic during a recent gathering of special envoys for hostage affairs in Jerusalem. Delegates from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Austria, and Canada attended the meeting and spoke with Tsurkov’s family.

Israel has asked these nations to use their diplomatic presence in Baghdad to press the Iraqi government to assist in negotiations. The official emphasized that Israel is relying on allies to bridge the gap, as the two countries lack formal diplomatic relations.

“We are counting on our partners,” the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. “We hope other nations will come forward with proposals to help secure Elizabeth’s release. Many countries have embassies and channels of communication with Baghdad that we cannot directly access.”

Tsurkov, 38, is a doctoral candidate at Princeton University who disappeared in Baghdad in March 2023 while conducting research for her dissertation. She used her Russian passport to enter Iraq. The only public indication of her status came in November 2023, when an Iraqi television station aired a video—also circulated on pro-Iranian social media—purporting to show her alive.

No group has claimed responsibility for the abduction, but Israeli authorities believe Tsurkov is being held by Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed Iraqi militia with close ties to the Iraqi government.

The official noted that Israel has been pursuing covert efforts for months but sees new opportunities to act openly. “Regional changes have altered the dynamics,” the official said.

Recent developments include reduced Iranian influence in the region following intensified conflict with Israel and its allies. Additionally, Iraq is believed to have pressured local militias to halt aerial attacks targeting Israel.

Israel hopes international pressure on Baghdad and potential diplomatic mediation could lead to breakthroughs in the case, bringing Tsurkov one step closer to freedom.

(With files from AP)