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Austin Tice, a former Marine and aspiring journalist, embarked on a dangerous journey to Syria in 2012 to witness the country’s civil war. He disappeared two months into his trip, sparking a 13-year mystery involving his Texan family and the US government’s relationship with Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Despite numerous efforts, including a video surfacing years later, his whereabouts remain unknown. Over the years, clues have emerged, including a confession from a high-ranking Syrian general, Bassam al Hassan, that Tice was killed in 2013. His family has remained steadfast in their belief that he is still alive, fueled by ongoing advocacy and pressure from figures like his mother, Debra Tice. The case has highlighted the risks faced by journalists operating in conflict zones and the challenges of securing the release of individuals held captive by authoritarian regimes.