Syria’s interim government holds ousted President Bashar al-Assad responsible for the pain inflicted on American journalist Austin Tice’s family, as the search for Tice continues. Tice went missing in Syria in 2012 while reporting on the civil war. A recent video claiming to show Tice alive was deemed not credible by his family. The U.S. government believes Tice is in the custody of the Syrian government, a charge denied by Assad’s regime. With Assad ousted by rebel forces, Tice’s family hopes for his safe return. President Joe Biden expressed hope for Tice’s return but admitted to having no direct evidence. The Biden administration is open to working with anyone who may have information on Tice’s whereabouts. The new rebel coalition in Syria, led by HTS, has emerged as a potential player in securing Tice’s freedom. The group, once affiliated with Al Qaeda, has recently renounced extremism. While Biden welcomed Assad’s ouster, he remains cautious about what comes next for Syria. The Tice family continues to hope for Austin’s safe return, amidst ongoing efforts to locate him.
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