Debra Tice to Hold Press Conference in Damascus About Missing Son Austin Tice

Debra Tice's First Visit to Damascus in Nine Years

On January 20, 2025, Debra Tice, the mother of missing journalist Austin Tice, is scheduled to hold a significant news conference in Damascus, Syria. This event is particularly notable as it marks Debra's first trip back to the city in over nine years, during which she has tirelessly advocated for her son’s release. Austin Tice has been missing since 2012, and over the years, Debra has worked closely with various organizations to raise awareness of his case and that of other detainees.

The conference, set for 11:00 AM Damascus time at the Four Seasons Hotel, is organized in collaboration with the Press Freedom Center of the National Press Club. This partnership has been vital in keeping the Tice family's quest in the public eye and supporting the search efforts led by Hostage Aid Worldwide (HAW), an NGO dedicated to assisting families of hostages and detainees.

Joining Debra at the press conference will be members of Families for Freedom, a Syrian women's group fighting for the rights and freedoms of individuals arbitrarily held captive in Syria. Their presence underscores the shared plight of families in the region dealing with disappearances and detentions during the ongoing conflict.

This event comes at a time when the U.S. government has had limited presence in Syria, making independent efforts to locate detainees even more crucial. HAW, which has been engaged in activities to locate Austin and other imprisoned individuals in Syria, has provided crucial support by pursuing leads and documenting cases.

Debra Tice's unwavering dedication over the last twelve years represents more than just a personal struggle; it reflects the broader human rights issues faced by many families in Syria. During her earlier visits, she invested considerable time and effort into discussions aimed at advocating for the release of her son. Her commitment has not only drawn attention to Austin’s situation but has also spotlighted the broader crisis affecting countless others in similar circumstances.

At the press conference, Debra Tice and representatives from Families for Freedom will share their experiences, discuss the importance of public awareness in the fight for freedom, and answer questions from the media. Their joint efforts serve to amplify the voices of families affected by unjust detainment and to demand accountability from the authorities responsible.

Those unable to attend the conference in person are encouraged to share the invite with others in the country to ensure widespread coverage of this significant humane advocacy. For more information or to confirm attendance, individuals can reach out via the email provided in the event advisory.

As the date approaches, all eyes will be on Damascus, where Debra Tice aims to renew her advocacy for her son and illuminate the ongoing plight for freedom experienced by many in her homeland.