US starts transferring ISIL-linked detainees from Syria to Iraq

US Military Transfers ISIL Detainees from Syria to Iraq

The US military has announced plans to transfer up to 7,000 detainees linked to the terrorist organization ISIL (ISIS) from a detention facility in Hasakah, Syria, to secure locations in Iraq. As part of this effort, 150 detainees were transferred on Wednesday from the facility to an undisclosed location in Iraq.

The move comes as the Syrian government continues to expand its control over territory previously held by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The SDF had previously administered several camps and prisons holding ISIL fighters and their families. However, with the advancement of government forces, the SDF has withdrawn from several locations, including al-Hol camp, which is Syria’s largest camp for family members of ISIL fighters.

A ceasefire was announced between the Syrian government and the SDF late on Tuesday. The US military stated that it is coordinating closely with regional partners, including the Iraqi government, to ensure the secure transfer of detainees. This effort aims to prevent mass breakouts that could pose a threat to US and regional security.

According to the US military, up to 7,000 people with alleged ISIL links are expected to be transferred to Iraqi-controlled facilities. The Iraqi government has approved this step, citing concerns over control over detained terrorists. The first batch of detainees, including 150 individuals from Iraq and other nationalities, has already been received by the Iraqi authorities.

Source: Al Jazeera