Iraqi security forces are reportedly deploying along the Syrian border in anticipation of a second transfer of ISIS detainees from Syria. Sources indicate that the detainees are being transported by International Coalition helicopters, although the exact number involved in this latest transfer remains undisclosed.
The detainees, previously held in prisons operated by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northeastern Syria, will be distributed between the ‘Al-Hout Prison’ in Nasiriyah and ‘Cropper Prison’ located at Baghdad International Airport. This follows the arrival of an initial group of detainees last week.
Government spokesperson Bassem al-Awadi confirmed that Iraq received 150 ISIS members in the first transfer. He stated that investigations are underway to determine the nationalities of the detainees. Foreign nationals will be handed over to their respective countries, while Iraqi citizens will be prosecuted under Iraqi law.
Al-Awadi emphasized that Iraq’s decision to receive the detainees was a proactive measure driven by the rapidly evolving security situation in Syria. He noted that the operation was conducted in close coordination with the International Coalition and in communication with the Syrian government to ensure the safe and orderly transfer of the detainees.
The initial group of ISIS members included prominent leaders of various nationalities, including Europeans, Asians, and Arabs, according to Iraqi security officials. Reports suggest the group comprised 85 Iraqis and 65 foreign nationals, including individuals from Europe, Sudan, Somalia, and the Caucasus region.
The Iraqi government, in a statement, has called upon European nations and other countries to take responsibility for their citizens who are currently detained as ISIS members. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani has discussed the situation with U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander, General Michael Erik Kurilla, highlighting the potential security risks posed by the prisons holding ISIS detainees in Syria.
CENTCOM has previously indicated that the transfer operation could involve as many as 7,000 detainees, with the aim of ensuring they are held in secure detention facilities. The Iraqi military has reportedly increased security measures along the border with Syria in response to these developments.
