Princeton student held hostage by Iran-backed militia for two years is free, Trump says
Princeton student released after being held captive for over 900 days in Iraq
- 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.