Israeli-Russian Researcher Freed After 2.5 Years of Captivity in Iraq

Elizabeth Tsurkov Recovers After 2.5 Years of Torture in Iraq

Elizabeth Tsurkov, a 38-year-old Israeli-Russian researcher and Princeton doctoral student, survived 2½ years of captivity in Iraq under an Iranian-backed militia. She endured severe torture, including “hanging” and the “scorpion” method, before her release in September, and is now recuperating in Israel.

Kidnapping and Brutal Torture

Tsurkov, fluent in Arabic and a scholar of Middle Eastern politics, was kidnapped in March 2023 while conducting research in Baghdad. Blindfolded, sexually assaulted, and beaten, she was taken to a facility on the outskirts of the city, where she endured both Ta’aliq—being hoisted with hands cuffed above the head—and Akrab, a more painful variant with hands cuffed behind the back.

A month into captivity, her captors discovered Hebrew messages on her phone and began accusing her of spying, demanding a $600 million ransom, according to Israeli officials. Tsurkov described electroshock, sexual abuse, whipping, and threats with firearms stamped as Iraqi government property. She made false confessions under duress to appease her captors while protecting local acquaintances.

Solitary Confinement and Partial Relief

After 4½ months, Tsurkov was moved to what she believes was a Kataib Hezbollah base near the Iran border. There, her conditions improved slightly: she was provided sufficient food, water, and even a television, though she remained in solitary confinement.

Her hopes for release diminished following the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, when she became one of over 250 hostages of concern. The ordeal left her with likely permanent nerve damage, requiring ongoing medical care and physical therapy.

Militia Influence and U.S. Pressure

Tsurkov’s captors were part of Kataib Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed militia officially linked to Iraq’s armed forces but operating independently. The U.S. has designated Kataib Hezbollah a terrorist organization since 2009. Tsurkov emphasized that Iraqi militias focus largely on oppressing local populations, rather than external targets.

Her release involved sustained U.S. intervention, including efforts by former Trump administration hostage envoy Adam Boehler, and leverage by Israeli officials. Iraqi-American businessman Mark Savaya reportedly warned Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani that the U.S. might strike Kataib Hezbollah if she was not freed. Her handover to Iraqi authorities occurred about a week later, and she was reunited with her family at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad before returning to Israel.

Family History of Imprisonment

Tsurkov comes from a family with a history of political incarceration. Her parents were imprisoned in Russia for opposing the communist government, and her grandfather was jailed under Stalin. She was born in Russia and moved to Israel at age four.

Her family and Israeli officials campaigned tirelessly for her release, leveraging diplomatic channels and U.S. political influence. The Russian Foreign Ministry did not respond to requests for comment.

Recovery and Future Plans

Now recovering in Israel, Tsurkov focuses on physical rehabilitation and adjusting to life after captivity. She plans to resume her doctorate at Princeton and hopes to continue research, especially fieldwork highlighting marginalized groups.

Despite enduring torture, sexual assault, and solitary confinement, she emphasizes her gratitude for survival. “It often feels like a nightmare that I woke up from,” she said. “It feels so surreal to have undergone, and overcome, such brutality.”

Tsurkov’s experience sheds light on the dangers faced by researchers in conflict zones and the operations of Iranian-backed militias in Iraq. She hopes her story increases global awareness while acknowledging the risks for Iraqis who cannot safely speak out.