192 Iraqi Families Depart Syria’s al-Hol Camp Amid Coordination with Baghdad
AL-HOL, Syria (North Press) – A total of 192 Iraqi families, comprising 715 individuals, left al-Hol camp in southern Hasakah on Wednesday under a coordinated effort between the Iraqi government and the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES).
This marks the 19th batch of Iraqi families to leave the camp since coordination efforts began and is the first transfer of its kind in 2025.
A Milestone in Repatriation
A source from al-Hol camp confirmed to North Press that the transfer involved families who had been vetted and cleared for return to Iraq. The individuals were transported by buses organized in collaboration with Iraqi authorities.
Al-Hol camp, notorious for its security challenges, houses approximately 54,000 individuals, including nearly 20,000 Iraqis, most of whom are women and children. Many of the camp’s residents are family members of ISIS fighters or individuals displaced by the Syrian conflict and the war against ISIS.
Iraqi Government’s Stance
Iraqi Minister of Migration and Displacement, Karim al-Nouri, previously stated that individuals implicated in serious security offenses or crimes would not be allowed to return to Iraq.
In an earlier statement to the Iraqi News Agency, al-Nouri clarified, “Those with blood on their hands or active security cases will not be repatriated.”
Since the start of Iraq’s efforts to bring back its citizens from al-Hol, approximately 4,000 Iraqis have returned. However, the process remains complex, involving security clearances, reintegration programs, and logistical challenges.
Humanitarian and Security Concerns
The al-Hol camp, operated by the AANES, has been described as a humanitarian and security time bomb by international agencies. The camp’s overcrowded conditions, lack of basic services, and prevalence of extremist ideology among some residents have drawn global concern.
Efforts to repatriate Iraqis are seen as a critical step in addressing these challenges. However, the process has been slow due to security risks and the need to vet returnees thoroughly.
Ongoing Repatriation Efforts
The Iraqi government, with support from international organizations, has been working to reintegrate returnees into society. This includes providing them with housing, psychological support, and, in some cases, vocational training.
Analysts view the repatriation process as essential to reducing the burden on the camp and curbing the potential for radicalization among vulnerable populations, especially children.
As the first repatriation of 2025, this latest transfer underscores the ongoing collaboration between Iraq and the Autonomous Administration in addressing the humanitarian and security challenges posed by al-Hol camp.
While significant progress has been made, the road ahead remains fraught with obstacles, requiring sustained efforts from all stakeholders to ensure the safe and effective reintegration of returnees.