US-based NGO renews hope in a decade-long disappearance
A US non-profit organization, Hostage Aid Worldwide, has reignited hope in the case of journalist Austin Tice, who disappeared in Syria over a decade ago. In a statement on Tuesday, the NGO asserted its belief that Tice is still alive. Although concrete details about his current location were not disclosed, the group affirmed its ongoing collaboration with Tice’s family and US authorities to secure his safe return.
“We are sure that he is alive today”
Speaking at a press conference in Damascus, Hostage Aid Worldwide representative Nizar Zakka shared the organization’s findings and expressed optimism about Tice’s survival.
“We have data that Austin is alive till January 2024, but the president of the US said in August that he is alive, and we are sure that he is alive today,” Zakka stated.
To support the claim, Zakka presented an image that reportedly mapped out locations where Austin Tice was held from November 2017 to February 2024. While withholding certain specifics for operational reasons, Zakka pledged transparency.
“We are trying to be as transparent as possible and to share as much information as possible,” he said.
Austin Tice: A journalist caught in a warzone
Before his disappearance, Tice, now 43, worked as a freelance journalist for esteemed outlets, including Agence France-Presse, The Washington Post, McClatchy News, and CBS. He was last seen in August 2012, near Damascus, while covering the escalating Syrian civil war.
Despite widespread efforts by human rights organizations, governments, and his family, Tice’s fate has remained uncertain. The regime of ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad consistently denied detaining him, leaving little trace of his whereabouts for over a decade.
A family’s unrelenting hope
Tice’s family has remained unwavering in their search for answers. Earlier this month, his mother, Debra Tice, expressed confidence that her son is alive. She has collaborated with international bodies and the US government to bring him home.
Hostage Aid Worldwide’s latest statement aligns with these sentiments and echoes the US President’s comments in August, affirming that the journalist remains alive.
A new chapter under Syria’s leadership
Following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, Syria’s new leadership has pledged to assist in locating Tice. Hostage Aid Worldwide confirmed that discussions are underway, though the organization emphasized that time is critical in resolving the case.
Decades of hope and advocacy
Austin Tice’s disappearance has become a poignant symbol of the dangers faced by journalists covering conflict zones. His story continues to inspire advocacy for press freedom and the safety of journalists worldwide.
With new leads emerging and persistent efforts from global organizations, the possibility of Tice’s return is a hopeful light in a case that has haunted his family and the world for more than 12 years.