Israeli-Russian Academic Being Held Captive in Iraq by Iran-Backed Militia

An Israeli-Russian Princeton University graduate student named Elizabeth Tsurkov disappeared in Iraq in March while conducting research and is believed to be held by Kataeb Hezbollah, an Iran-backed Shiite militia.
Tsurkov's family and colleagues requested her kidnapping not be publicized in hopes of securing her quick release but the news leaked prompting Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to confirm the abduction.
Tsurkov entered Iraq on her Russian passport as her Israeli citizenship banned her from entering the country and she is an outspoken critic of Israel, Iran, and Russia complicating negotiations for her release.
The Iraqi government has opened an investigation into Tsurkov's disappearance, though Israel holds Iraq responsible for her safety and fate.
US and Russian officials are working with Israel in efforts to secure Tsurkov's release from her captors.