Debra Tice Expresses Hope for Austin’s Return with New U.S. Leadership
Debra Tice, mother of missing journalist Austin Tice, expressed new hope in locating her son following meetings in Syria and support from the incoming Trump administration. Tice, who disappeared in 2012 during the Syrian civil war, was among the first journalists to report on the conflict. Despite challenges over the years, she remains optimistic due to recent engagements and statements from U.S. officials.
On Monday, Debra Tice, the mother of American journalist Austin Tice, visited Syria and expressed her optimism regarding the newly elected Trump administration’s involvement in locating her son, who disappeared in Syria in 2012. Although she did not bring new information from her trip, she conveyed her belief that fresh leadership in both the United States and Syria would enhance their efforts to find him.
“I have great hope that the Trump administration will sincerely engage in diligent work to bring Austin home,” she stated during a conference in Damascus, noting that the administration had previously reached out to her, a contrast to her experiences over the last four years. Austin Tice, 43, was among the first journalists to cover the Syrian civil war, which began in 2011; he vanished under uncertain circumstances the following year.
The State Department has indicated that Tice is believed to be held by the Syrian government, a claim the government has consistently denied. Debra Tice’s previous visits to Syria in 2012 and 2015 did not yield information confirming her son’s status, as she faced difficulties in obtaining visas from the regime. Recently, U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens traveled to Lebanon seeking updates on Austin’s situation, reflecting a continued commitment to his case.
During her conference, Debra shared that prior to the collapse of the Assad government, she had obtained intel suggesting her son was alive and receiving care. She anticipates further cooperation with the new U.S. administration, particularly with officials such as national security advisor Mike Waltz and Special Presidential Envoy Adam Boehler.
After meeting with new Syrian authorities, including Ahmed al-Sharaa, Debra expressed hope that these leaders could assist in uncovering more information about Austin. “It was so wonderful to learn that they are dedicated and determined to bring home my son,” she remarked. Debra also emphasized Austin’s dedication to telling the story of the Syrian people.
While her visit coincided with Trump’s inauguration, she has criticized the prior Biden administration for its lack of aggressive negotiation on behalf of her son. Debra Tice will return to the United States on Tuesday, indicating that she would remain patient as events unfold.
Debra Tice’s ongoing efforts to locate her son, Austin Tice, highlight a personal and geopolitical struggle since he went missing in Syria in 2012 amid the civil war. As an early journalist reporting on the conflict, his case has drawn the attention of various U.S. administrations. The tensions between the U.S. government and the Syrian regime complicate efforts for his recovery, making Debra Tice’s diplomatic engagements critical in this intricate situation. Her renewed faith in the new administration reflects broader hopes for improved diplomatic relations and humanitarian efforts in the region.
Debra Tice remains hopeful about the prospects of finding her son, Austin, due to the promising engagement from the Trump administration and the new leadership in Syria. Her recent visit, marked by meetings with Syrian officials, has rekindled her belief in the possibility of uncovering new information. The ongoing dialogue with U.S. officials reinforces her commitment to seeking justice and resolution in her son’s case.
Original Source: www.nbcnews.com
