Trump Demands Release of Israeli Hostage Held in Iraq, Criticizes Prime Minister Al-Sudani

tel aviv - President Trump calls for the immediate release of Elizabeth Tsurkov, a 38-year-old Israeli held captive in Iraq, and criticizes Prime Minister Al-Sudani for broken promises.

Trump Calls for Release of Israeli Hostage in Iraq

President Trump has demanded the release of Elizabeth Tsurkov, a 38-year-old Israeli held captive by a Shiite militia in Iraq. Adam Boehler, the special envoy for hostages, criticized Iraqi Prime Minister Al-Sudani for failing to secure Tsurkov's release despite previous promises.

American officials have warned Prime Minister Al-Sudani of serious consequences for the US-Iraq relationship if Tsurkov is not released promptly. The Shiite militia holding Tsurkov is an ally of the Iraqi government.

Elizabeth Tsurkov, a researcher specializing in the Middle East, was abducted in March 2023 while conducting research in Baghdad. She holds Russian citizenship and was reportedly held by Kata'ib Hezbollah, a pro-Iranian militia. Tsurkov's family and international allies have been advocating for her release.

Efforts for Tsurkov's release have intensified recently, with negotiations reportedly underway involving Iraq, Lebanon, and Israel. The potential exchange involves Hezbollah fighters and a Lebanese soldier held in Israeli custody.

Trump's envoy referenced Tsurkov's sister's plea for help and criticized the Biden administration's handling of the situation. The Trump administration is taking a strong stance on securing Tsurkov's release.

Kata'ib Hezbollah, the group holding Tsurkov, has a history of terrorist activities and is designated as a terrorist organization by the US. The militia has launched attacks on Israel and has ties to the Iraqi government.