Israeli-Russian Researcher Elizabeth Tsurkov Abducted by Militia in Iraq

Elizabeth Tsurkov, an Israeli-Russian researcher specializing in the Levant, was abducted in Baghdad, Iraq, on March 21. The Israeli Prime Minister's office confirmed that she is alive and that Iraq is responsible for her safety. Tsurkov was likely taken by Asaib Ahl al-Haqq, a Shiite paramilitary group funded by Iran's Revolutionary Guard. The group may be using her as a bargaining chip for a prisoner swap or concessions. Tsurkov's mother was unaware of her daughter's presence in Iraq, and efforts are being made to secure her release, including involvement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Tsurkov is known for her critical reporting on Israeli actions against Palestinians and her extensive network inside Syria.