Reports suggest Israeli-Russian researcher Elisabeth Tsurkov may have been transferred to Iran, complicating U.S.-Iraq relations. Despite Iraqi Prime Minister al-Sudani’s claims of unawareness regarding her location, American officials suspect Iranian involvement. Tsurkov’s family disputes these claims, seeking clarity as they engage with U.S. negotiators. Her captivity by the militia Kata’ib Hezbollah raises further concerns.
The fate of Israeli-Russian researcher Elisabeth Tsurkov remains uncertain as recent reports suggest a potential transfer to Iran. This situation complicates Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani’s relationship with the United States, which has indicated it may take punitive measures if Ms. Tsurkov is not released. Despite his willingness to cooperate for her return, Prime Minister al-Sudani claims he is unaware of her current location.
U.S. diplomatic efforts to secure Ms. Tsurkov’s release face significant challenges, with indications that she may have been moved to Iran for interrogation. A source within the Iraqi administration noted that rumors persist about her possible transfer, suggesting the involvement of Iranian intelligence agents. The same source expressed relief regarding her survival, underscoring that her foreign identity may afford her some level of protection during her captivity.
Elizabeth Tsurkov’s sister, Emma Tsurkov, has dismissed claims that her sister is in Iran, arguing that such assertions serve as an evasive tactic by the Iraqi government. She emphasized that those in power are aware of who is holding Elizabeth. Emma also mentioned positive communications with Adam Boehler, the U.S. envoy for hostage-related issues, noting the progress made in enhancing the situation since his team’s involvement.
Elizabeth Tsurkov, a prominent researcher focused on Middle Eastern studies and a PhD candidate at Princeton University, vanished in Baghdad in March 2023 while conducting her research. Subsequent reports in July revealed that she was captured by Kata’ib Hezbollah, a Shiite militia backed by Iran and designated a terrorist entity by the Americans.
In conclusion, the situation regarding Elisabeth Tsurkov remains precarious as diplomatic attempts by the U.S. intensify amidst potential relocation to Iran. The Iraqi government claims ignorance about her whereabouts, while family members refute allegations about her being in Iran, instead highlighting their engagement with U.S. officials. This complex web of geopolitical and personal factors continues to pose challenges for securing her release.
Original Source: www.i24news.tv
