A source reported on negotiations on the release of a Russian woman abducted in Iraq.

The issue of the release of Russian and Israeli citizen Elizaveta Tsurkova, who was abducted in Iraq, is "the subject of serious discussions," a Lebanese source familiar with the negotiations told Izvestia.

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Russia expressed gratitude to the Palestinian side for the release of the citizen

In exchange for her release, several members of the Lebanese Hezbollah group and a Lebanese officer who are in Israeli captivity are expected to be released, local media reported.

Dmitry Gendelman, adviser to the Israeli Prime Minister, did not confirm the fact of a possible deal in an interview with Izvestia.

"We do not comment on information regarding possible agreements on humanitarian or other issues, especially when it comes to the fate of specific individuals," he said.

At the same time, Gendelman stressed that "Israel is making constant efforts at various levels and in close coordination with partners for the return of its citizens."

Tsurkova, an employee of Princeton University, was abducted in Baghdad, where she was engaged in field research. She was captured by one of the Iraqi groups linked to Iran. Since her abduction, diplomatic efforts have been underway to free her.

In July 2023, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Tsurkova was being held by the Kataib Hezbollah group in Iraq. They also reported that she had entered the country on a Russian passport to carry out scientific work.

Read more in the exclusive Izvestia article:

Request for prisoners: when will the Russian woman abducted in Iraq be released