Debra Tice Expresses Hope for Austin Tice’s Recovery Under New U.S. and Syrian Leadership

Debra Tice, mother of missing journalist Austin Tice, expressed optimism about the new Trump administration’s willingness to assist in her son’s recovery. During her first visit to Syria in a decade, she articulated renewed hopes following her meetings with the new Syrian leadership, indicating their commitment to providing information regarding her son’s case, while contrasting this with her experiences during the previous administration.

Debra Tice, the mother of American journalist Austin Tice, recently visited Syria and expressed hope that the incoming Trump administration would assist in locating her son, who vanished in Syria in 2012. Though she did not share new information during her first visit in a decade, she conveyed a positive outlook regarding new leadership in both America and Syria, which she believes may enhance efforts to find her son.

During a media conference in Damascus, Debra Tice remarked, “I have great hope that the Trump administration will sincerely engage in diligent work to bring Austin home.” She indicated that the Trump team had reached out to her, unlike officials from the previous administration, which she claims did not offer adequate engagement over the past four years.

Austin Tice, now 43, was among the first journalists to cover the Syrian civil war, which erupted in 2011. His family maintains he is being held by the Syrian government, a claim the former Assad regime has strongly denied. Tice’s mother last visited Syria in 2012 and 2015, but her attempts to meet with authorities were met with obstructions, resulting in a visa denial after 2015.

In December, U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens sought further details regarding Austin Tice’s fate during a trip to Lebanon. President Biden remarked, “We think we can get him back, but we have no direct evidence of that yet.” Debra Tice previously stated she received intelligence suggesting her son was alive and well taken care of amid the regime’s collapse.

Upon her recent return, Tice reiterated her commitment to collaborating with the newly appointed officials in the U.S. government. “I look forward to working closely with his new team, including national security advisor Mike Waltz and Special Presidential Envoy Adam Boehler,” she noted during her media conference.

Alongside her meeting with Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of Syria’s new government, she is optimistic about their commitment to assisting in the search for her son. “It was so wonderful to learn that they are dedicated and determined to bring home my son,” she stated, reflecting on her time in Damascus.

Debra Tice’s remarks coincided with President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, where she shared favorable sentiments, contrasting her views with the outgoing Biden administration’s efforts regarding her son’s case. Tice plans to return to the U.S. soon and expressed her intention to remain hopeful yet patient in awaiting new developments regarding her son’s situation.

Austin Tice is a journalist recognized for reporting on the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011. He was last seen in 2012, with claims from his family asserting he is detained by the Syrian government, a point the previous Assad regime has denied. Debra Tice previously engaged in unsuccessful efforts to meet with Syrian officials due to visa issues and a lack of acknowledgment regarding her son’s status. As of late, under a new U.S. administration, hopes are renewed for stronger action in pursuing his case.

In summary, Debra Tice’s recent discussions and engagements showcase her optimism surrounding the potential of the Trump administration contributing positively towards locating her son. Her renewed interactions with the Syrian government have also raised expectations for information regarding Austin’s whereabouts. However, she remains cautious, indicating a willingness to wait and pray as developments unfold.

Original Source: www.nbcnews.com