Assad regime planned US journalist's kidnap for weeks, BBC finds
Austin Tice’s abduction was approved by Syria’s former leader Bashar al-Assad, a source claims.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
""Bring him to us," Assad replied, claims Abu Ali."
— Abu Ali , Other
Key People
Abu Ali is a former member of the National Defence Forces militia in Syria.
Austin Tice is a US journalist who disappeared in Syria in 2012 while reporting on the civil war.
Bashar al-Assad is the president of Syria who has been in power since 2000.
Bassam al-Hassan is one of Bashar al-Assad's most trusted security figures.
Sakr Rustom is a member of the National Defence Forces militia and nephew of a key security figure in Assad's regime.
Locations
All Coverage
Austin Tice’s abduction was approved by Syria’s former leader Bashar al-Assad, a source claims.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
US and Lebanon protecting wanted Syrian general, BBC finds
Bassam al-Hassan, linked to reporter Austin Tice's abduction, is being sheltered in return for information.
October 8, 2026 at 05:00 AMBombs preventing rescue of kidnapped youths, Nigerian police say
The father of one of the 19 young abductees tells the BBC he hasn't eaten in three days out of worry.
October 5, 2026 at 12:59 PMFormer German spy chief arrested on suspicion of attempted treason, obtaining state secrets - Reuters
Former German spy chief arrested on suspicion of attempted treason, obtaining state secrets Reuters
October 6, 2026 at 12:01 PMUS arrests person in connection to Canada school shooting, officials say - Reuters
US arrests person in connection to Canada school shooting, officials say Reuters
October 6, 2026 at 09:01 PMSyria calls for independent probe into sinking of ship in Black Sea - Reuters
Syria calls for independent probe into sinking of ship in Black Sea Reuters
October 8, 2026 at 01:58 PMSyria weighs military aid for Saudi Arabia amid Yemen war, sources say - Reuters
Syria weighs military aid for Saudi Arabia amid Yemen war, sources say Reuters
October 7, 2026 at 06:21 PM