5 Minute News

Elizabeth Tsourkov's Experience in Iraqi Captivity

December 4, 2025

Elizabeth Tsourkov, an Israeli-Russian academic, was held captive in Iraq for 903 days, during which she suffered severe abuse. She describes the horrific conditions she endured, including electric shocks and sexual assault. Her kidnapping occurred while conducting research for her PhD, and her identity was uncovered by her captors. She claims her release was secured through U.S. intervention. Now recovering in Israel, she aims to continue her studies.