Israeli-Russian researcher Elisabeth Tsurkov’s potential transfer to Iran raises concerns as American diplomatic efforts intensify for her release. Iraqi PM Muhammad Shia al-Sudani expresses willingness to cooperate, but lacks knowledge of her whereabouts. Her sister disputes claims of her being in Iran, emphasizing positive updates from US negotiators.
The situation surrounding Israeli-Russian researcher Elisabeth Tsurkov has become increasingly complex following reports suggesting she may have been transferred to Iran. This predicament is contributing to tensions between Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani and the US, which has threatened repercussions if Tsurkov is not released. An Iraqi official claimed that while al-Sudani is willing to assist, he lacks knowledge of Tsurkov’s current location.
US diplomatic efforts are being ramped up to secure Tsurkov’s release amidst theories circulating in American administrations about her possible transfer to Iran for interrogation. An official indicated that it remains plausible for such a transfer to have occurred, particularly in light of the Iranian regime’s known intelligence operations.
Notably, the Iraqi official expressed relief that Tsurkov is reportedly alive, asserting that her foreign identity serves as a protective factor during her captivity, as individuals in similar situations often face severe outcomes during interrogation.
In contrast, Tsurkov’s sister, Emma, has dismissed claims of her sister being in Iran, stating, “It’s a convenient excuse that the government keeps repeating, but she’s not in Iran.” Emma also noted her discussions with Adam Boehler, the US emissary for hostage negotiations, emphasizing positive progress reported over recent weeks.
Elizabeth Tsurkov, aged 36, is a distinguished scholar focusing on Middle Eastern studies and a PhD candidate at Princeton University. She vanished in Baghdad while conducting research in March 2023, with subsequent reports from the Israeli Prime Minister’s office identifying her as a hostage of Kata’ib Hezbollah, a militant group linked to Iran and recognized as a terrorist organization by the US.
The ongoing situation regarding Elisabeth Tsurkov highlights significant diplomatic challenges faced by both the US and Iraq. As attempts by the US to secure her release escalate, tensions are compounded by the potential transfer of Tsurkov to Iran. Her family’s efforts and claims of ongoing negotiations reflect a complex layer of dynamics amid the backdrop of regional and international relations related to her captivity.
Original Source: www.i24news.tv
