Cruz Slams Iraq Over Tsurkov Kidnapping, Pledges Action Under Trump
Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) has publicly condemned the Iraqi government for its alleged complicity in the kidnapping of Israeli researcher Elizabeth Tsurkov, who has been held in Iraq for nearly two years. In a recent post on X, Cruz emphasized that the situation surrounding Tsurkov, who is believed to be in the custody of the Iranian-backed militia Kataeb Hezbollah, reflects poorly on the U.S.-Iraqi relationship.
Cruz stated that Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al Sudani “does not understand the severity of the Elizabeth Tsurkov case,” asserting that the Iraqi government is complicit in the actions of the militia holding her hostage. He expressed frustration over the Iraqi government’s demands for U.S. taxpayer money while simultaneously misleading U.S. officials about the situation. “This will end under President Donald Trump and the GOP Congress. Elizabeth needs to be released immediately!” Cruz declared.
Elizabeth Tsurkov, 36, holds dual Israeli and Russian citizenship and has been residing in the U.S. while pursuing her doctorate at Princeton University. Cruz’s comments follow a recent appeal from Adam Boehler, the U.S. Envoy for Hostages, who urged Al Sudani to take action for Tsurkov’s release. Boehler shared an interview with Tsurkov’s sister, Emma, highlighting the urgency of the situation and the opportunity for the Iraqi Prime Minister to demonstrate his commitment to resolving the crisis.
In a recent statement, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein confirmed that Tsurkov is alive and indicated that Al Sudani is actively working towards her release. Reports suggest that Tsurkov may be released soon in exchange for the release of eight Hezbollah terrorists by Israel, although details remain unclear.
Cruz’s strong stance underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding Tsurkov’s kidnapping and the broader implications for U.S.-Iraqi relations, as well as the potential for political action under a future Trump administration.
