American Travis Timmerman Freed from Syria

Travis Timmerman, a 29-year-old American who went missing in Syria seven months ago while on a Christian pilgrimage, has been freed by rebels following the overthrow of Bashar Assad's regime. Timmerman described his release as a 'blessing,' recounting that he was not mistreated during his detention at the Palestine Branch prison and was held separately from other prisoners. He was liberated alongside numerous others during the rebels' advance into Damascus, an event he described as chaotic yet exhilarating. After his release, Timmerman expressed his intention to return to Damascus despite his ordeal. The rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham announced their willingness to cooperate with the U.S. in searching for other American citizens missing in Syria, including journalist Austin Tice. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed that officials are working to facilitate Timmerman's safe return home.