US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has lauded Iraq for its diligent efforts in repatriating nationals associated with the Islamic State (ISIS) from northeast Syria, particularly from the Rojava region. This commendation comes as a result of Iraq’s ongoing commitment to reducing the number of detained ISIS fighters and displaced individuals.
Recent discussions between a top Iraqi military delegation and Secretary Austin further solidified the collaborative approach both nations are taking in addressing the ISIS threat. In recent years, Iraq has undertaken significant steps to repatriate thousands of ISIS-linked individuals from Rojava, including former fighters who were apprehended by Kurdish forces.
Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein revealed that around 3,000 ISIS-affiliated Iraqi fighters, who were detained in Rojava and subsequently tried, have been returned to Iraq. These efforts highlight Iraq’s dedication to dealing with the aftermath of the ISIS insurgency by actively addressing the issue of detained fighters and displaced citizens.
The meeting between the top Iraqi military delegation and Secretary Austin underscored the shared commitment between the United States and Iraq in the fight against ISIS. Discussions revolved around a range of topics, with a particular focus on strategies to counter the ongoing threat posed by the terrorist group.
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International Efforts and Challenges
Secretary Austin expressed his appreciation for Iraq’s dedication to not only repatriating individuals but also rehabilitating, reintegrating, and, when necessary, prosecuting Iraqi nationals residing in Rojava.
One critical aspect of this effort is addressing the situation in the Al-Hol camp, located in northeast Syria’s Hasaka province. This camp currently houses over 50,000 individuals with ties to ISIS, many of whom are Iraqis. The camp has earned a reputation as a potential breeding ground for terrorism, prompting concerns of a looming security threat.
The urgent need to mitigate this danger has led both Kurdish and American officials to advocate for the repatriation of their respective nationals from the camp. While Iraq’s proactive approach to repatriation is commendable, the international response to calls for repatriation has been mixed.
Kurdish and American officials have persistently urged other nations to take similar steps, yet only a handful have responded positively. This has led to ongoing challenges in effectively addressing the presence of ISIS-linked individuals in Syria.
Additionally, the closure of al-Jada 5 camp in Nineveh earlier this year drew condemnation from the United Nations, underlining the complexities and sensitive nature of handling repatriation efforts.
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Source: Rudaw
