Biden calls for 'immediate release' of American journalist detained in Syria 12 years ago

'I will continue to do everything possible to advocate for and pursue his release and support his loved ones until he is safely returned home' says US president

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - US President Joe Biden on Wednesday again appealed for the "immediate release" of American journalist Austin Tice, who went missing in Syria 12 years ago.

"We have repeatedly pressed the government of Syria to work with us so that we can, at last, bring Austin home. Today, I once again call for his immediate release," Biden said in a statement.

"The freedom of the press is essential, and journalists like Austin play a critical role informing the public and holding those in power accountable. We stand in solidarity with Austin, his family, and all Americans wrongfully detained and held hostage abroad. I will continue to do everything possible to advocate for and pursue his release and support his loved ones until he is safely returned home," he added.

Tice, then age 31, was abducted at a checkpoint near the Syrian capital Damascus on Aug. 14, 2012 while covering the country’s civil war as a freelance journalist for multiple US news organizations.

On Sept. 26, 2012, nearly six weeks after his abduction, a video emerged showing Tice blindfolded and detained by a group of unidentified armed men. To this day, however, no one has claimed responsibility for his capture.

The State Department acknowledged in 2022 that it was holding direct talks with Syrian officials seeking Tice's safe return to the US.

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