Following reports of 'reaching understandings' regarding the release of Israeli captive Elizabeth Tzurkov from captivity in Iraq, an Israeli official stated that 'efforts to secure her release are ongoing. As part of its actions on this matter, Israel has indeed requested assistance from the U.S. and other countries.' Last week, an Israeli official familiar with the details said that Israel is not close to securing Tzurkov's return, but hopes to make progress. According to him, 'There is a chance, we don't want to give false hope. We are moving forward.' The National Security Council is handling the matter.

