Debra Tice, mother of missing journalist Austin Tice, expressed hope in finding her son following the support from the Trump administration. During her first visit to Syria in a decade, she met with new government leaders, who she believes are dedicated to assisting her. Previously critical of the Biden administration’s efforts, she is now optimistic about renewed engagement from U.S. officials.
Debra Tice, the mother of missing American journalist Austin Tice, stated on Monday that the newly elected Trump administration is actively engaged in efforts to locate her son, who has been missing in Syria since 2012. During a media conference in Damascus, she expressed renewed optimism regarding the political changes, suggesting that the new leadership in both Syria and the United States could enhance the search for her son.
Despite not having new insights from her first trip to Syria in a decade, Debra Tice conveyed her appreciation for the support she has received from the Trump administration. In her remarks, she noted, “I have great hope that the Trump administration will sincerely engage in diligent work to bring Austin home.” She emphasized that officials from the administration had reached out to her, which had not occurred during the previous four years.
Austin Tice, who is now 43 years old, was among the initial American journalists to cover the Syrian civil war. His disappearance in 2012 was attributed by the State Department to his detention by the Syrian government, a charge that was categorically denied by Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Debra Tice’s previous visits to Syria in 2012 and 2015 were unproductive as the authorities never confirmed her son’s status.
Recently, U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens sought information regarding Austin Tice’s situation in Lebanon, indicating a potential avenue for further investigation. Debra Tice revealed that she obtained intelligence suggesting her son was alive and being cared for prior to the Assad regime’s fall, reinforcing her hopes of a reunion in the future.
During her time in Damascus, Debra Tice met with Ahmed al-Sharaa, the head of Syria’s new government. She commended this leadership for their commitment to aiding her search for Austin, stating, “It was so wonderful to learn that they are dedicated and determined to bring home my son.” She acknowledged her fondness for Syria, expressing her admiration for its people and culture.
Although her visit coincided with the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, Debra Tice has previously criticized the Biden administration for their lack of decisive action regarding her son’s release. As she prepares to return to the United States, she intends to monitor developments closely and remain hopeful about the outcome of these negotiations.
The article discusses the ongoing search for Austin Tice, an American journalist who disappeared in Syria in 2012. His mother, Debra Tice, has been actively seeking information about his whereabouts and has expressed concerns regarding the differing responses from past U.S. administrations regarding his case. The change in Syrian leadership and the recent support from the Trump administration appears to provide her with renewed hope.
Debra Tice remains optimistic about the search for her son, Austin Tice, following her meeting with Syria’s new leadership and the support from the Trump administration. She hopes that this new political climate will facilitate more communication and actionable steps toward confirming her son’s status. As she prepares to return home, her determination and faith in the efforts of the U.S. government are evident.
Original Source: www.nbcnews.com
