Where Is Austin Tice?: 6. A Meeting in Muscat
Summary
This episode investigates the US government's failed diplomatic efforts to secure the release of journalist Austin Tice from Syria. It features interviews with former hostage envoy Roger Carstens and Syrian negotiator Imad Mustafa, who reveal secret talks in Muscat where the US considered withdrawing troops from oil fields in exchange for Tice. The narrative highlights internal US conflicts over prioritizing one American life against broader geopolitical interests, while the Syrian regime refused to acknowledge Tice’s detention despite massive leverage.
Topics discussed
Sponsorships and show introduction
Austin Tice's disappearance and family's plea
Deborah Tice's solo mission to Damascus
James Foley's execution and policy overhaul
Roger Carstens and secret WhatsApp diplomacy
Negotiations with Ali Mamluk in Damascus
Sponsorship break
Imad Mustafa's account of the Muscat talks
The offer to trade oil fields for Austin
Syrian suspicions of CIA ties and US priorities
Internal US debate on hostage policy
Assad's strict boundaries and the mystery of Austin's fate
Final talks before the regime's fall
Credits and closing remarks
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