Freed after 2.5 years in Iraqi captivity, Elizabeth Tsurkov thanks Israel’s rescuers and urges freedom for all remaining hostages.
Two weeks after regaining her freedom, Elizabeth Tsurkov, the Israeli researcher held captive in Iraq for two and a half years, has spoken publicly for the first time in Hebrew. In a moving post on X, Tsurkov expressed gratitude to those who fought tirelessly for her release and sent a heartfelt message to the families of other hostages still waiting for their loved ones.
“I thank from the bottom of my heart the director of the hostages and all the parties who worked with determination and dedication for my release,” Tsurkov wrote. She extended her appreciation to the medical teams who continue to care for her recovery: “Special thanks to the amazing medical teams for their dedicated care.”
But her most powerful words looked beyond her personal freedom. “Thank you to everyone who worked to free me from captivity. I have no words to describe the feeling of happiness to be free and with my family. All the hostages and their families deserve to experience this feeling.”
Her statement resonates deeply in Israel, where the nation continues to fight for the release of hostages held by Hamas and other terror groups. Tsurkov’s testimony underscores a universal truth for Israelis: no hostage will be forgotten, and no family will be left behind.
Her return home is a symbol of hope—but also a rallying cry to bring every captive back to Israel’s embrace.
