Australian women and children released from Syrian detention camp

A group of 34 Australian women and children, family members of deceased or imprisoned ISIS fighters, were released from the Roj detention camp in northeast Syria, where they have been held since 2019. The group, consisting of 11 families, was initially expected to be transported to Damascus for repatriation to Australia. However, reports indicate they were stopped by the Syrian government and prevented from traveling to Damascus. The Australian government maintains it is not involved in the repatriation effort, despite calls from advocates to evacuate the Australians due to the camp's deteriorating conditions. While none of the individuals have been charged with crimes, the Australian government has stated that returnees could face legal consequences if they have committed any offenses. The government insists its priority remains the safety of Australians and national interests.

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