Princeton student released after being held captive for over 900 days in Iraq

WorldPolitics
10 Sep 2025 • 6:46 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Elizabeth Tsurkov, a Princeton University student, has been freed after being held captive for over two years by an Iran-backed militia in Iraq.
  • Donald Trump announced her release, stating she was returned to the American embassy in Iraq after more than 900 days in captivity.
  • Iraq’s prime minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, confirmed the release, attributing it to extensive efforts by Iraqi security services.
  • Tsurkov, who holds both Israeli and Russian passports, went missing in March 2023 while conducting academic research for her doctorate in Iraq.
  • Princeton University and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed relief and gratitude for her return.

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