Reports indicate that Israeli-Russian researcher Elizabeth Tsurkov, held captive since 2023 by Iraqi Hezbollah, has been released as part of a broader agreement. Sources told AFP that the release was intended to “avoid conflict and spare Iraq unnecessary strife.” Tsurkov is expected to return to Israel today via Cyprus on an Israeli military flight, before being admitted to Sheba Hospital.
Lebanese outlet Al-Mayadeen cited anonymous sources claiming the release was tied to U.S. troop withdrawal arrangements from Iraq, aimed at preventing renewed clashes in the country. Iraqi Hezbollah emphasized that this was a “release, not a rescue,” denying any military operation was involved.
As part of the deal, several prisoners were reportedly freed, including Imad Amahz, a senior Hezbollah naval officer arrested by Israeli Shayetet 13 commandos in November 2024 during a covert raid in Batrun, northern Lebanon. Amahz was identified by the IDF as a key figure in Hezbollah’s naval and anti-ship missile units. While Lebanese officials disputed his Hezbollah ties, evidence seized during his capture suggested otherwise. His detention had previously triggered a Lebanese government complaint to the UN Security Council.
