The Ongoing Search for Austin Tice: A Thorn in U.S.-Syria Relations

The search for American journalist Austin Tice, captured in Syria in 2012, continues without direct U.S. government presence in the region. The U.S. State Department remains committed to locating Tice, collaborating with militia groups, and exploring all options to bring him home. The situation underscores complex U.S.-Syria dynamics.

The U.S. continues its efforts to locate missing journalist Austin Tice, despite no official presence in Syria. The search persists, as the U.S. government explores all avenues, including communications with on-ground militia groups.

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller reiterated the commitment to bringing Tice home, highlighting ongoing collaborations with various factions in Syria, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which has agreed to assist in the search.

U.S. President Joe Biden recently affirmed his belief that Tice is alive. Tice's abductors captured him in August 2012, and his captivity underscores the complex U.S.-Syria relations post-civil war.

(With inputs from agencies.)