Elizabeth Tsurkov’s release after more than two years in captivity has drawn global attention and political reactions. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed the development on Tuesday.
He announced that Iraqi security forces led a complex operation to secure her freedom. Al-Sudani praised their work and promised continued law enforcement efforts.
He emphasized that Iraq will uphold national sovereignty and protect its international image. He also warned against any future actions that could harm the country’s reputation.
Major General Sabah al-Numan shared more details about the rescue. He explained that multiple agencies cooperated to track down the kidnappers.
Al-Numan stated that security teams located her on September 9 after months of intelligence-gathering. Subsequently, he confirmed that officials handed her over to the U.S. embassy in Baghdad.
According to al-Numan, her sister—who holds American citizenship—arranged the final transfer.
He also promised that authorities would arrest and prosecute the group responsible. He described the kidnappers as “outlaws” who acted against national interests.
Tsurkov vanished in Baghdad in March 2023. At the time, she was conducting academic research in the capital.
Although unconfirmed, she was reportedly held by Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-linked militia. This group has denied any connection to her abduction.
Tsurkov’s release prompted immediate reactions from international leaders. Former U.S. President Donald Trump celebrated the outcome in a post on Truth Social.
He said her freedom proved what coordination between governments could achieve. Trump also called on Hamas to release hostages in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his support as well. He said months of teamwork finally produced a successful outcome.
Furthermore, Netanyahu credited Hostage Coordinator Gal Hirsch for leading the effort. He also said he personally called Tsurkov’s sisters after hearing the news.
Moreover, Tsurkov is affiliated with Princeton and Stanford universities. Elizabeth Tsurkov’s release, officials say, marks a rare moment of success in a region filled with complex hostage crises.
Her disappearance initially raised concerns across academic and diplomatic circles. However, officials now see Elizabeth Tsurkov’s release as a powerful example of multilateral cooperation.
