ISIS Detention Camps Pose a Dangerous Problem for Syria’s Leaders

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 7 min read 100% complete by Alissa J. Rubin and Daniel BerehulakDecember 10, 2025 at 11:43 AM

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long article 7 min

Syria's government faces a complex problem regarding prisons and detention camps holding thousands of ISIS fighters and their families, remnants of the civil war. Al Hol camp in northeastern Syria holds primarily women and children related to ISIS fighters, while the fighters themselves are held in nearby prisons. Previously guarded by Kurdish-led forces backed by the U.S., the responsibility for these detainees is shifting to the Syrian government as the U.S. draws down troops. This transition is complicated by Kurdish distrust of the government, fearing potential releases of ISIS militants, despite the government's public stance against ISIS and recent agreement to join a U.S.-led coalition. ISIS has expanded its reach and attacks in the last year.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

United States ×250% Syria ×460% Islamic State (ISIS) ×370% Al Hol detention camp ×480%

Keywords

isis detention camps 100% syria 90% isis fighters 80% al hol detention camp 70% civil war 70% kurdish-led forces 60% islamic state 60% terrorism 50% syrian democratic forces 50% security 40%