German journalist detained in Syria released and returned home

German journalist Eva Maria Michelmann, who was held in Syria since January, has been freed and has returned to Germany. Her brother, Antonius Michelmann, confirmed the news, stating that his sister is now back in the country and is recovering after her ordeal. She arrived from Jordan late in the afternoon, and her brother reported that she is doing as well as can be expected, having endured a significant period in isolation.

Michelmann was reportedly arrested on January 18 in the city of Raqqa during what Syrian authorities described as a military operation. At the time of her arrest, she was reportedly with Ahmed Polad, a Turkish citizen and Kurdish journalist, who remains unaccounted for, according to her brother. Syrian officials had stated that Michelmann was apprehended while searching a building associated with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), and that she initially claimed to be a Spanish national working for a UN-affiliated organization.

Further details from Syrian officials indicated that Michelmann and her companion attempted to escape custody. However, family members have stated that Michelmann had been working as a freelance journalist in Syria since 2022. According to "Der Spiegel," the German Foreign Office and the German embassy in Damascus were actively involved in diplomatic efforts to secure her release, engaging with Syrian authorities.

Her brother confirmed that Michelmann is now back in Germany, and while he provided few additional details, he emphasized her well-being under the circumstances. The release marks the end of a five-month detention period for the journalist.

“

We picked her up. She is doing as well as can be expected under the circumstances. She was in isolation for a long time.