Additional Coverage:
- Mother of Austin Tice says discovery of missing American found in Syria feels like a ‘rehearsal’ for when he is found (nbcnews.com)
Debra Tice, mother of missing journalist Austin Tice, expressed her emotions after seeing the recent rescue of Travis Timmerman in Damascus. She said it was a “rehearsal” for the day her son is freed.
Despite initial reports, Tice knew it wasn’t Austin in the video. However, many people reached out with congratulations, giving her a glimpse of what it will feel like when Austin is found.
Austin Tice disappeared in 2012 while reporting on the Syrian civil war. The U.S. believes he was held by the Syrian government, a claim former leader Bashar al-Assad denied.
In recent weeks, a former prisoner reported seeing Austin alive in July 2022. Debra Tice says they’ve verified this account.
Syria’s rebel government blames Assad for Austin’s plight and is searching for him, but without success.
Despite the uncertainty, Debra Tice remains hopeful, sharing joy with the Timmerman family after their reunion. President Joe Biden also expressed belief that Austin is still alive and must be brought home.