Iraq Repatriates 3,200 Families from Al-Hol Camp Following Security Vetting
The Iraqi Ministry of Migration and Displaced has announced the repatriation of 3,200 Iraqi families from Al-Hol camp, managed by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in Syria. This move comes after a comprehensive security vetting process, ensuring that all returning children bear Iraqi citizenship.
According to the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Ali Abbas, the ministry’s spokesperson, stated yesterday that “the Iraqi government continues its efforts to bring back its citizens from Al-Hol camp due to the security concerns it poses, especially under Syria’s unstable conditions.”
Abbas emphasized that Iraq has prioritized the repatriation of its nationals from the camp since the onset, focusing on both dismantling the camp and safely returning Iraqis. He noted that three new batches have been transferred, bringing the total number of repatriated families to over 3,200, which equates to approximately 12,500 individuals.
Further, Abbas revealed that more than 9,000 of these returnees have undergone psychological and social rehabilitation programs. However, approximately 833 Iraqi families still remain in the camp, with ongoing efforts for their gradual repatriation. “The total number of Iraqis still in the camp is around 15,000, including women, men, and children, which requires special logistical arrangements to ensure their safe return,” he added.
He also clarified that Iraq has not repatriated any non-Iraqi children, stressing that “all returning children are Iraqi, with their identities confirmed through rigorous DNA testing procedures.”
This repatriation effort underscores Iraq’s commitment to addressing the humanitarian and security challenges posed by the conditions at Al-Hol, aiming for a stable and secure environment for its citizens.
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