Debra Tice Praises New Leadership in Syria Amid Ongoing Search for Son

Debra Tice, mother of journalist Austin Tice, expressed optimism about the new Trump administration’s commitment to finding her son, who disappeared in Syria in 2012. Her recent visit to Syria marked her first in years, during which she met with new government leaders and shared her hope for renewed search efforts. She has been critical of the prior administration’s lack of assertiveness in negotiations.

On Monday, Debra Tice, mother of missing journalist Austin Tice, announced that the incoming Trump administration has pledged support in locating her son, who disappeared in Syria in 2012. During a media conference in Damascus, Tice expressed optimism that the change in leadership in both America and Syria would enhance efforts to find her son. “I have great hope that the Trump administration will sincerely engage in diligent work to bring Austin home,” she stated.

Debra Tice emphasized her hope during a visit to Syria, her first in nearly a decade since the Assad regime’s power was challenged. Despite no new findings, she conveyed her expectation that with renewed leadership, there might be progress in the search for Austin. The State Department holds the view that he is in the custody of the Syrian government, a claim that the Syrian government denies.

This situation is particularly significant as Austin Tice, who is currently 43, was among the initial American correspondents to cover the Syrian civil war before he went missing. Following her past attempts to engage with the Syrian authorities in 2012 and 2015, Debra Tice has faced barriers, such as visa denials, making subsequent visits impossible.

Recently, U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens sought updates on Austin’s situation during a visit to Lebanon. President Joe Biden indicated a commitment to find him, stating, “We think we can get him back, but we have no direct evidence of that yet.” Debra Tice confirmed earlier insights suggested her son was alive and well shortly before Assad’s regime collapsed.

Following meetings with new Syrian leadership, Debra Tice expressed confidence in their willingness to assist in her son’s search. “During my time in Damascus, I have been privileged to meet with the new leadership of Syria. It was so wonderful to learn that they are dedicated and determined to bring home my son,” she remarked, highlighting their commitment to addressing her family’s plight.

Tice’s appearance in Syria aligned with Donald Trump’s inauguration, where she shared her approval of his administration’s potential involvement. In recent months, she has been critical of the Biden administration’s efforts, believing they could have been more assertive in negotiations. Debra Tice plans to return to the United States soon, remaining hopeful for positive developments as the political landscape evolves.

The case of Austin Tice remains a high-profile incident since his disappearance in Syria during the civil war. He was one of the first American journalists on the ground, highlighting critical stories from the region. Debra Tice has been a persistent advocate for her son, navigating diplomatic channels and raising awareness of his case over the years. Her meetings with Syrian officials and recent developments may signal new opportunities for resolution with the incoming Trump administration.

Debra Tice’s return to Syria underscores her unwavering commitment to finding her son, Austin. With renewed leadership in both the United States and Syria, she holds hope for enhanced efforts to locate him. Her meetings with the new Syrian government leaders reflect a potentially positive shift in dialogue regarding her son’s case, as she prepares to engage with the new U.S. administration. Continued advocacy and international attention remain vital in this ongoing search.

Original Source: www.nbcnews.com