U.S. Efforts to Locate Missing Journalist Austin Tice
The U.S. government is intensifying its efforts to locate Austin Tice, an American journalist who has been missing in Syria since August 14, 2012. Tice, a Texas-born freelance journalist and former U.S. Navy officer, disappeared while covering the Syrian uprising. U.S. Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, Roger Carstens, has stated that the focus is on six specific prisons in Syria where Tice may be held. Carstens emphasized the U.S. government's commitment to uncovering Tice's fate and bringing him home.
Communication with New Syrian Leadership
In a recent development, Carstens communicated with the new Syrian leadership regarding the search for Tice. He mentioned that U.S. teams have not yet been authorized to operate within Syria, but they are collaborating with non-governmental organizations and journalists to gather information. Carstens revealed that over the past 12 years, they have identified approximately six facilities where Tice was likely held at some point. The urgency of the search has been underscored by the recent political changes in Syria following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad.
Ongoing Search for Other Missing Americans
The U.S. government is not only focused on Tice but is also seeking information on other missing Americans, including Majd Kamalmaz, a Syrian-American psychotherapist believed to have died in detention in 2017. Despite repeated calls from U.S. administrations for the Assad regime to disclose Tice's whereabouts, there has been no response. Tice's mother, Deborah, remains hopeful, having received information suggesting her son may still be alive.
