Title: Kidnapping of Russian-Israeli Academic Sparks Online Attacks and Condemnation
Subtitle: Friends and Colleagues Defend Elizabeth Tsurkov Amidst Spreading Dangerous Lies
Date: [Insert Date]
In a distressing turn of events, friends and colleagues of Elizabeth Tsurkov, a dual Russian-Israeli citizen and Princeton doctoral student, are rallying to counter a wave of online attacks disparaging the academic after her kidnapping by an Iran-backed militia in Iraq earlier this year.
According to a statement released by Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office, Tsurkov, 36, went missing in March while conducting research for her dissertation in Iraq. She was subsequently abducted by Kataib Hezbollah, a notorious militia group designated as a terrorist organization by the United States. The statement clarified that Tsurkov was undertaking the research trip independently as part of her doctoral work for Princeton University.
Denouncing the slew of social media assaults on Tsurkov, friends, peers, and supporters have come forward to defend her integrity and dismiss baseless accusations, ranging from her decision to travel to Iraq as an Israeli citizen to claims that she was operating as an Israeli spy.
The Daily Beast quoted Gary Spedding, a long-time friend and human rights activist who has collaborated with Tsurkov on various projects, expressing his outrage at the attacks. Spedding emphasized the dangerous situation Tsurkov finds herself in and condemned those aiming to defame her. He referred to the online attackers as “disgusting cowards” who are well aware of the risks she faces.
Spedding further highlighted that Tsurkov not only faces criticism for allegedly being a spy but also contends with right-wing Israelis who view her support for Palestinian rights as traitorous. He condemned all forms of online harassment directed at her.
Several individuals who are familiar with Tsurkov’s work and activism have also come to her defense. Robin Yassin-Kassab, a Middle East expert, lauded Tsurkov’s dedication to criticizing Israeli policies and her support for justice and equality in the region. Yassin-Kassab expressed his appall at the negative remarks made about Tsurkov following her kidnapping.
Furthermore, an anonymous journalist described Tsurkov as a “dear friend” and condemned the “seriously repugnant and inhumane” accusations leveled against her. The journalist pointed out that Tsurkov had already addressed prior false allegations and dismissed them as baseless.
Dimi Reider, another journalist who has consulted with Tsurkov in the past, described her as a “fierce, committed, unflinching critic of the Israeli government.” Reider expressed concern over the ease with which people, including academics and activists, have speculated about Tsurkov being a spy, despite the lack of evidence.
Tsurkov’s loved ones have emphasized that she was well aware of the risks associated with her research in Iraq. Her sister, Emma, stated that Tsurkov took precautions and did not engage with militia members, emphasizing that meeting with regular people was her sole intention.
While an investigation into Tsurkov’s kidnapping has been initiated by the Iraqi government, they have yet to release further details.
As the online attacks persist, Tsurkov’s friends and colleagues hope to dispel the dangerous narratives being perpetuated and ensure her safety and well-being. It is crucial to separate fact from fiction and show support for individuals like Tsurkov who have dedicated themselves to promoting justice and equality in the region.
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