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Elizabeth Tsurkov

Asked by Nadia WhittomeLabourForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 3 February 2025UIN 27506

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he had discussions with (a) the Iraqi Prime Minister and (b) his Iraqi counterpart on Elizabeth Tsurkov on 14 January 2025.

Answered by Mr Hamish Falconer

The UK remains concerned over the kidnapping of Israeli-Russian dual national Elizabeth Tsurkov. The Government of Iraq's investigation into her kidnapping is ongoing, and we await the findings. Recent reports that Prime Minister al-Sudani is making great efforts to secure Elizabeth Tsurkov's release are encouraging. Those suspected of criminal responsibility of her kidnapping should be brought to justice in fair trials. The Government has not had any discussion with the Government of Iraq regarding the kidnapping.

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