Baghdad, Iraq – Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein announced that approximately 3,000 ISIS detainees have been transferred from prisons in Syria to Iraq so far. He clarified that the process is ongoing.
The minister indicated that Baghdad is in talks with several countries to secure the return of their detained citizens.
However, some European countries have expressed reservations due to their own legal constraints.
Details of the transfer process
Hussein said in an interview on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference that the transfers began
after the defeat of the Syrian Democratic Forces, who had been guarding prisons in northeastern Syria.
He warned of escalating activity by the Islamic State group on the other side of the border.
He also called for additional financial support to manage the flow of detainees and ensure security and stability.
U.S. Central Command said the operation began on January 21 and lasted 23 days.
It resulted in the transfer of more than 5,700 adult ISIS fighters from detention centers in Syria to Iraq.
This was part of the international coalition’s efforts against the group.
ISIS and the legal challenges
The minister explained that some European countries remain hesitant to repatriate their detained citizens.
This is due to the possibility of their early release under their legal systems.
He added that Iraq is coordinating with these countries to secure a comprehensive solution
that includes financial and security support to avoid any future threat.
Hussein warned that ISIS activity in Syria has recently increased as a result of the conflict
between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces.
He noted that the prolonged presence of thousands of terrorists in Iraq poses a serious security threat, requiring effective international cooperation.
