Austin News

U.S. Senators John Cornyn, Chris Van Hollen, Mark Warner, and Patty Murray have sent a bipartisan letter to President Joe Biden. They are requesting an update on efforts to locate and free Austin Tice following the fall of the Assad regime in Syria. Tice is an American journalist and Marine veteran who has been held captive in Syria for 12 years.

The senators stated: “We write to request an update regarding U.S. efforts to bring home Austin Tice, a Marine Corps veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, and who has been detained in Syria since 2012. Given the recent fall of the Assad regime and the rapidly changing dynamics on the ground in Syria, we think this moment presents a critical opportunity to secure Austin’s release and bring him home to his family.”

They emphasized Tice's significance as “a beloved son, brother, Eagle Scout, journalist, and veteran,” asserting that he deserves full government support for his release. The letter continued: “Twelve years is far too long for Austin to be held. We ask that you direct the relevant members of your administration to provide us a briefing by December 20 on current U.S. efforts to identify Austin’s whereabouts and bring him home so that Congress and your Administration can continue working hand-in-hand on this important issue.”

The senators referenced previous engagements with President Biden's administration concerning Tice's case. They noted meetings between National Security Advisor Sullivan and Tice's family as well as congressional actions advocating for his release.

President Biden had previously expressed confidence that Tice is alive, stating: “We want to get him out. We have to identify where he is.” National Security Advisor Sullivan also highlighted the priority of finding Tice during comments made earlier this month.

Austin’s parents have persistently urged government action over these years. With changes occurring in Syria's political landscape, there appears hope for renewed efforts towards securing his freedom.