Austin Tice's mother, Debra, is on a mission to uncover information about her son's abduction as the landscape of Syria shifts following recent political events.
**Mother of Missing US Journalist Returns to Syria to Renew Search**
**Mother of Missing US Journalist Returns to Syria to Renew Search**
Debra Tice seeks new leads in the case of her son, Austin Tice, amidst changing political dynamics in Syria.
Debra Tice, the mother of Austin Tice, a freelance journalist abducted in Syria in 2012, has returned to the country for the first time in ten years amid significant political changes. Her visit coincides with the recent fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, a shift she hopes may aid in obtaining new information on her son's fate. Austin Tice, who is now 43, was taken while reporting on the Syrian civil war in the suburb of Darayya.
In an interview in Damascus, Debra expressed the uncertainty she faces in the renewed search for her son, stating, "We had information, but the whole world changed… We have no idea where he is now" following the regime's ousting. Tice became one of America's longest-held hostages and was last seen in a distressing video shortly after his abduction. While speculation points towards the Assad government being responsible, no definitive claims have ever been made.
The recent rebellion led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has led to belief within U.S. officials that Tice might still be alive, but his location remains unknown. Following the insurgents' control of the area, there are indications that records and access to former prison facilities could provide vital insights into past disappearances, including that of Tice.
During her visit, Debra Tice met Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new de facto leader in Syria. She remains optimistic, claiming, "I've never had a moment of doubt... I always knew that [Tice] is going to walk free.” Her hope is fueled by a desire for families affected by the chaotic regimes to gain continued access to search efforts, fostering a sense of community among those with loved ones still missing.
Revisiting Syria has brought changes to Debra's perspective. Noting a more relaxed atmosphere with visible joy among children, she expressed her longing to reunite with her son, underscoring her determination to continue advocating for those still searching for their loved ones. Her emotional resolve remains firm, stating, “I want to be one of the moms... that finds my loved one and throbs my arms around him and takes them home.”
