U.S. presses Syria to confirm detention of journalist

Saturday, 01 September 2012

Freelance photographer Austin Tice is being held by the Syrian government. (AFP) 

By AFP 

The United States urged Syria on Friday to confirm it is detaining an American freelance journalist who has been missing in the country for more than two weeks. 

 Austin Tice, 31, is believed to be held by forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, according to The Washington Post and McClatchy Newspapers, who called this week for his release.

 “We have seen news reports that Mr Tice in Syrian custody,” said Patrick Ventrell, a State Department spokesman. 

“However, the Syrian government has yet to confirm these reports with our protecting power. We urge the Syrian government to respond... as soon as possible.” 

Ventrell said Washington was “concerned” about Tice’s safety and well-being, and was working through the Czech mission, which has overseen US interests in Syria since the US embassy was closed in February, to get information about the reporter's location and well-being.

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