Bring Austin Home: A Voices Unbound Program with the Tice Family

WASHINGTON, April 23 — On the eve of World Press Freedom Day, Voices Unbound convened a virtual program with three siblings of American journalist Austin Tice — Abigail, Naomi, and Jacob — for an update on his case and what the family is asking the United States government to do now to bring him home.

Hosted by Voices Unbound's Bill McCarren, the program addressed the case nearly fourteen years after Austin was taken in Syria in August 2012 while on a reporting trip. He remains the longest-held American journalist in history.

The siblings outlined three diplomatic avenues they believe the U.S. government has not pursued with sufficient urgency: engagement with Iran in the context of ongoing negotiations; direct communication with former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, now in Russia following the fall of the regime in December 2024; and information requests to Israeli authorities regarding what is known about Austin's detention.

While each of these channels carries its own complexities, the family noted that regional dynamics today may make the moment more favorable than it has been in years. They expressed disappointment that these strategies have not been more actively pursued and called on President Trump to address Austin's case publicly and frequently.

The family also urged supporters to continue advocating through media outlets and members of Congress, ensuring that Austin's situation remains visible.