What Happened to Kidnapped Israeli-Russian Woman Elizabeth Tsurkov?
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Synopsis
Elizabeth Tsurkov, an Israeli-Russian woman, has returned to Israel after over two years in captivity in Iraq. Her release marks a significant moment for her family and the Israeli government. In this article, we explore the circumstances surrounding her abduction, her journey back home, and the implications of her story.
Key Takeaways
- Elizabeth Tsurkov was kidnapped in Iraq over two years ago.
- Her release was facilitated by international efforts, including those from the US and Cypriot intelligence.
- No prisoners were exchanged for her freedom.
- She is expected to reunite with her family soon.
- The circumstances of her abduction remained undisclosed for several months.
Jerusalem, Sep 11 (NationPress) Elizabeth Tsurkov, a dual citizen of Israel and Russia, who was kidnapped in Iraq over two years ago, has returned to Israel following her release a day prior, as confirmed by Israel's Mossad intelligence agency.
Tsurkov, a doctoral student at Princeton University, disappeared in Baghdad while conducting field research in March 2023. It was revealed four months later that she had been abducted by Kataib Hezbollah, a Shi'ite militia with ties to Iran.
On Tuesday, she was set free and subsequently taken to the US embassy in Baghdad, before being flown to Israel via Cyprus on Wednesday night, according to Mossad. The agency's director, David Barnea, expressed gratitude towards Cypriot intelligence for their role in ensuring what he termed a 'humanitarian transfer.'
Reports indicate that Tsurkov is expected to reunite with her family at Ben Gurion Airport and will undergo medical evaluations at Sheba Hospital near Tel Aviv. The state broadcaster Kan reported that no prisoners were released and no concessions were made in exchange for her freedom, as confirmed by Xinhua news agency.
The Iraqi Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, acknowledged her release in a post on X, stating it was the outcome of 'extensive efforts' from Iraqi security forces and affirming a commitment to uphold the law and state authority.
‘My family is overjoyed,’ her sister, Emma Tsurkov, shared on X.
In March 2023, Tsurkov disappeared in Baghdad while working on her academic research. She was last seen in the Karrada area, after which reports surfaced that she had been taken by the militant group Kata’ib Hezbollah. Her abduction remained undisclosed for several months until July 2023, when the Israeli Prime Minister's Office publicly acknowledged her kidnapping and demanded the Iraqi government ensure her safety.
At 37 years old, Tsurkov holds citizenship in both Israel and Russia, having entered Iraq with her Russian passport.
In November 2023, Iraqi state television aired footage of Tsurkov claiming connections to both Mossad and the CIA, assertions her family vehemently denied, claiming they were made under coercion.
Details regarding the negotiations for her release remain largely undisclosed; however, earlier reports from January 2024 suggested discussions between the US and Iraqi governments were taking place.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also confirmed her release, attributing it to months of efforts led by Gal Hirsch, Israel’s coordinator for captives and missing persons.
‘Through a collaborative effort... after considerable endeavors, we achieved her release,’ Netanyahu stated.
Point of View
It is our responsibility to report on Elizabeth Tsurkov’s return with a commitment to accuracy and empathy. Her harrowing experience serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding kidnappings and international negotiations. We stand by the principle of informing the public while respecting the sensitivities involved in such incidents.
NationPress
26/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Elizabeth Tsurkov?
Elizabeth Tsurkov is an Israeli-Russian doctoral student at Princeton University who was kidnapped in Iraq more than two years ago.
When was Elizabeth Tsurkov released?
Elizabeth Tsurkov was released on a Tuesday and flown back to Israel the following Wednesday.
What group was responsible for her abduction?
She was abducted by Kataib Hezbollah, a Shi'ite militia with connections to Iran.
How did Elizabeth Tsurkov enter Iraq?
Tsurkov entered Iraq using her Russian passport.
What was the reaction of Israeli officials to her release?
Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, expressed relief and gratitude for her return, highlighting the efforts made for her release.
